Players 'guinea pigs' for new rule

Adelaide's Brent Reilly crashes into the legs of Alwyn Davey, giving away a free kick. Picture: Simon Cross Source: Herald Sun

Essendon put woes behind them by winning season opener.

ADELAIDE coach Brenton Sanderson says it is impossible to change players' instincts to try to win the ball even if it means giving away a free kick.

But both Essendon coach James Hird and his Adelaide counterpart Brenton Sanderson say it will take players time to adjust to a law change which is changing a fabric of the game.

The rule penalising players who slide into an opponent's legs was prevalent as Essendon won the season-opener in Adelaide on Friday night by 35 points.

Sanderson says his Crows players battled to adjust to being "guinea pigs" for the new rule.

Adelaide defender Brent Reilly conceded a goal from the law change: despite collecting the ball, he was penalised for cannoning into the legs of Essendon's Alwyn Davey.

Sanderson said Reilly wouldn't have given away a free kick for doing the same thing last year.

"It's a tricky one because it looked like Radar (Reilly) was going for the ball," he said.

"The interpretation of the new rule is that is now a free kick but we get penalised with a goal against.

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"We will have to have a look at that and show the players.

"I guess everyone now across the competition gets a first look at the guinea pigs - Essendon and the Crows will be the benchmark now for what that rule is.

"And it will be scrutinised pretty heavily throughout the media this week."

Sanderson said it was impossible to change the instinct of players to dive to win possession of ground balls.

"You can't change instinct, you have to teach better method," he said.

But Bombers coach James Hird said the new rule was well handled by players and umpires.

Watson inspires Bomber victory

"We spent a bit of time since our last NAB Cup game against GWS practising some things, not to get a free kick, but to avoid a free kick - the way we tackle, the way we go for the ball and that has certainly helped us," Hird said.

"It will take a while for players to get used to it and also for umpires to get used to it.

"I thought it was handled very well by the players and the umpires but that is probably a biased point of view because we won."

Picture gallery: Dons drop bomb on Crows

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10 things we learnt last night

Essendon put woes behind them by winning season opener.

Brendon Goddard celebrates after kicking a goal for Essendon. Source: Getty Images

A NEW Bomber cult hero, SuperCoach clangers and Channel 7 goes back to the future. Oh, and has anyone seen the coin for the toss?

1. JOBE WELL DONE

WE already knew it, but Jobe Watson is a freak. The Bombers captain almost single-handedly stopped his side's first-quarter rut and sparked Essendon with a grinding, inspirational midfield onslaught which the Crows were powerless to stop. And Kevin Sheedy wanted to trade this bloke?

2. KURT LEFT A CHASM

HE wore No. 4 and spent the entire night in attack, but Josh Jenkins just doesn't have the prowess of Kurt Tippett. It left the Crows weak in attack and with Taylor Walker shutdown, void of scoring power for about a 40 minute stretch bookending the second quarter.

3. DIVING DONE FOR GOOD

LIKE it or lump it, the contact below the knees rule is here. Brent Reilly found out the hard way last night when he slid into Alwyn Davey, taking out the small forward's legs. The result? An instant free kick and goal for the Dons. The crowd didn't like it - and Crows coach Brenton Sanderson says it goes against the basic instincts of players - but that's the rule.

Adelaide's Brent Reilly crashes into the legs of Alwyn Davey, giving away a free kick. Picture: Simon Cross Source: Herald Sun

4. JAKE OUT OF THE BOX

JAKE Carlisle is one to watch. The key defender won't feature on many highlights reels, but his work on Tex Walker last night was sublime. He had help, but Carlisle's ability to negate space and keep the Crows star out of the action was superb. Walker jagged two last-quarter goals but the honours well and truly went the young Bombers' way.

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5. USE THE FLIPPIN' COIN

WHAT was going on at the coin toss last night? Instead of tossing it, the umpire directed the flipper to hold it in a hand behind her back and let the captains choose which one it was in. Made no sense. If it was an issue with the coin, pick up a can and get your 5c refund and go again. Bizarre way to start the season.

Picture gallery: Dons drop bomb on Crows

6. BJ QUIET BUT DEADLY

BRENDON Goddard might have had just 14 disposals in a quiet debut, but he showed just how devastating he could be for the Bombers. The marquee recruit only needs a handful of kicks to damage the opposition, as he showed with his magnificent booming set-shot goal in the second term. When this bloke racks up 25-touches plus, the Bombers are going to be hard to beat.

Brendon Goddard celebrates after kicking a goal for Essendon. Source: Getty Images

7. SPLIT SCREEN NOSTALGIA

CHANNEL 7 brought back the picture-in-picture action to its broadcast last night, and it was far from a hit with the public. The network was slammed on social media for bringing back a fad that had the sword sliced through it in the 1990s. Let's see if it remains.

8. KOMMER PUTS EXCLAMATION MARK ON WIN

IT SEEMS the Dons have unearthed another state-league gem in Nick Kommer. The long-haired 22-year-old plays with serious tenacity and just makes things happen. He showed steady nerves to kick the sealer, applied great pressure and delivered the ball impressively all night. He joins Michael Hibberd, Mark Baguley and Dylan van Unen as Bomber recruits from second-tier footy. That's a nice haul.

Essendon's Nick Kommer runs through the middle of AAMI Stadium. Source: Getty Images

9. SUPERCOACH SUPER FRUSTRATING

LEAGUE games are still three weeks away and we're four quarters into the season, and I want to tear my hear out. Hands up if you had Ben Howlett or Courtenay Dempsey? Didn't think so. Didn't even have Jobe. Instead loaded up on "premiums" Patrick Dangerfield and Goddard for an underwhelming 63 and 86 SuperCoach points respectively. Both face big price drops. Also had Luke Brown, who got injured. Oh boy. Saving grace was throwing Kommer in at the last-minute. Come on Fyfe and Coxy tonight. PS: keep an eye on David Zaharakis in about a month – his price will plummet after donning the green vest.

Adelaide's Patrick Dangerfield under extreme pressure. Source: Getty Images

10. MICHAEL HURLED FORWARD

A LOT of pre-season chatter about which end Michael Hurley would suit up at. He spent the entire match in attack last night and presented well without finding the big sticks. Daniel Talia did a tremendous job on him, but it looks like James Hird's Plan A this year will be to stick Hurley and Stewie Crameri up forward as a one-two punch.
 

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Crows v Dons: 10 things to watch

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Brendon Goddard isn't shy in voicing his thoughts. Picture: George Salpigtidis Source: Herald Sun

IF YOU'RE not an Adelaide or Essendon fan, chances are you're probably not frothing at the mouth ahead of Friday night's season opener.

For the second year running the AFL has resisted the temptation to open the season with a blockbuster.

Well, the team here at SuperFooty has come up with a few items for all fans to keep an eye out for during the 2013 season opener - in the small chance you haven't picked any Crows or Bombers in your SuperCoach side!

So here's 10 things worth keeping an eye out for:

KURT TIPPETT EFFIGIES
They're a forgiving bunch in the City of Churches, but all this hot weather still has them a little hot under the collar about the departure of the big forward. Josh Jenkins - the man who has been given Tippett's No.4 jumper - "is gonna be just as good" and "we're better off without Tippett", Crows fans may say ... but despite the fact the man himself will be cooling his heels more than 1000km away, keep your eyes peeled for some good old-fashioned Kurt-hatin' from the locals.

STARTLED LOOKS
Another year, another rule change. The new rule preventing front-on contact below the knees means no more sliding in from players in a desperate attempt to gain possession. So there will be more keeping the feet and more awkward-looking attempts to gather possession. A possible result? An increase in free kicks from the new rule - and angst/confusion from players - or, possibly, more concussions as players 'learn' the new rule.

BARKING BRENDON
Brendon Goddard wasn't afraid to let his St Kilda teammates know if they'd erred in their judgment. The question is: Does the new Bomber already feel so at home that he's ready to give his new mates a bake straight away? If he's overlooked by a teammate or a red and black mate misses a target by a centimetre, we may well find out.

Ben Rutten doesn't often go for a trot ... but it's entertaining when he does. Picture: Sarah Reed Source: adelaidenow

BEN RUTTEN TURNING ON A DIME
"Truck" may be able to light up a dancefloor but the B Double aint known for his turning circle on the footy field. If he puts his indicator on, feel free to go and grab a drink from the fridge. He'll just be rounding the corner when you return.

AN ADELAIDE CELEBRITY
Lleyton is currently playing in Miami, so that leaves ... ummmm ... ummmm. Just keep your eyes peeled (and let us know if you see anyone of note ... please?).

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ASADA
C'mon, you didn't really think we weren't going to mention the elephant in the room, did you? Yes, the national drug agency - and the Bombers - have been in the news a bit lately and one would think whenever a Bomber (or Crow for that matter) feels the slightest pressure on his bladder in the rooms either before the game, at half-time or post-match, he'll have a friendly ASADA face - right in his face - holding a cup out in front of him.

JOBE WATSON'S BROWNLOW
With all the uncertainty surrounding the Dons and even speculation that the reigning league champ could lose his Brownlow, son of Tim may have been reluctant to part with Charlie - taking the medal with him everywhere. So if Jobe appears to be moving a little slower than usual, keep your eyes peeled for a piece of blue ribbon sticking out of his shorts.

Taylor Walker's flowing locks make him hard to miss. Picture: Tait Schmaal Source: adelaidenow

TAYLOR WALKER'S STYLE
Is the Adelaide forward actually a style guru and trend setter? Some look at Walker and think gruff, dishevelled. Even, dare we say it, bogan. But who'll be laughing in 10 years when we're all walking around with shoulder-length hair and an unkempt beard? Oh yes, today the boy from Broken Hill is booting goals in Adelaide. But don't be surprised if he's soon whisked away to the catwalks of Milan.

DUSTIN FLETCHER YELLING
Fletcher turns 38 this year and while talk on a football field is good, chances are the wily old defender will most likely be yelling simply to tell his younger teammates - or those crazy young kids as he calls them - to keep it down. Frankie Valli, Sherbet and the Skyhooks had songs in the Australian top 10 the month Fletcher was born (May 1975). We doubt any of those will get a run on his tape player in the rooms before the game.

Sam Edmund, Jay Clark and Ben Dixon join Brad Johnson to discuss the best players to pick for your SuperCoach team

HMMM, NICE DEFINITION
No, it's not raining in Adelaide, that's the standard Channel 7 picture. If you have the choice, you might choose to view Friday night's opener in Fox Footy's high-definition picture. Sure, it won't cheer you up if your team's getting flogged, but when neutrals are playing, you'll appreciate it. Whatever channel you go for, the footy is back! And surely that's better than watching the cricket.
 

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I know we did nothing wrong: Ryder

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Jay Clark and Sam Edmund argue over Brad Crouch and pick apart each other's SuperCoach sides.

Essendon begins their season with a fully fit squad after being decimated by injury in 2012.

Paddy Ryder ahead of the start of the 2013 AFl season and Essendon's game against the Adelaide Crows. Picture: Wayne Ludbey. Source: News Limited

ESSENDON ruckman Paddy Ryder said he was initially "shocked" and "worried" when he learnt in February the club was to be investigated for the supplements administered to its players, but comforted in the knowledge that "you know you've done nothing wrong".

Ryder said in the five weeks since the issue had become public, the Bombers players had never congregated away from the club to discuss the issue.

Rather they had thrown themselves into preparing for tonight's AFL season opener against Adelaide, and were "jumping out of their skin" to play and return the focus to football.

Last-minute SuperCoach cheat sheet

"As a group we were shocked. Thinking 'what the hell is this?' It's just a fair dinkum shock and you want answers straight away," Ryder said.

"And that's what the guys are doing now, investigating and trying to come up with some answers."

Bombers just focused on footy

The 25-year-old was at the AFL's indigenous camp in Alice Springs when the supplements story erupted in early February.

Ryder said he and four of his indigenous Essendon teammates - Nathan Lovett-Murray, Courtenay Dempsey, Alwyn Davey and Leroy Jetta - learnt of the investigation via a text message from club training and football co-ordinator John Elliott.

"I had family and friends who were ringing me and saying, 'I hope you're not involved in that stuff that's going on'.

"At the end of the day you know you've done nothing wrong.

"It was hardest at first when you wanted to know answers, but then you realised you're not going to get answers.

"But as time has come along I've stopped worrying about it. Just more concentrating on footy; let footy do the talking."

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Mitchell cashes in before Buddy

Sam Mitchell is set to sign a new deal with the Hawks. Picture: Wayne Ludbey Source: HWT Image Library

SAM Mitchell has agreed to a new deal at Hawthorn as the latest piece of the club's free-agency puzzle falls into place.

The fine details of the short-term contract are still being finalised, but the Herald Sun understands the Hawks will announce Mitchell's commitment soon.

It is a significant win for the club, which is vulnerable to free-agency poachers and still has biggest fish Lance Franklin, Luke Hodge, Shaun Burgoyne and Xavier Ellis coming out of contract.

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Mitchell's re-signing comes soon after Jordan Lewis' new deal and is the last brokered by football manager Mark Evans, who is leaving for the AFL. Franklin has put off contract negotiations until the end of the year, but the fact it will be the biggest deal of his career has created an inevitable ripple effect.

Captain Hodge, who has battled knee and calf injuries for most of the past 12 months, admitted this week that he would be prepared to take a pay cut.

It is understood Mitchell did not - and was not asked to - do the same, despite turning 31 later this year, given he has won two consecutive Hawthorn best-and-fairest awards, was runner-up in the 2012 Brownlow Medal and has displayed durability.

Lance Franklin, Adidas deal. Picture: Alex Coppel Source: Herald Sun

It is believed Mitchell is happy to keep signing short-term deals if the conditions reflect his form. He is determined to eventually retire on his own terms and turn to coaching.

Hawthorn has stated publicly that it expects to retain Franklin, but industry sources said they believed one and possibly two teammates could be forced out.

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Hawks eye Crow to replace Evans

Adelaide Crows football list manager David Noble is in Hawthorn's sights. Picture: Ray Titus Source: The Advertiser

HAWTHORN has its eyes set on Adelaide list manager David Noble to replace AFL-bound football chief Mark Evans.

Crows chairman and acting chief executive Rob Chapman today acknowledged Hawthorn's interest in Noble after Evans landed Adrian Anderson's old job as the league's football operations manager.

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"It is great that our staff is looked at by rival clubs,'' said Chapman.

"And David is an exceptional talent.

"But I am confident we will retain David.''

Noble this month has been promoted to partner Phil Harper as a general manager of Adelaide's football operations.

While Harper deals with the day-ot-day task of the football team, Noble has the long-term strategic brief including list management and contracting players.
 

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Skippers slam slide rule

AFL captains have savaged the sliding rule. Picture: Klein Michael Source: HWT Image Library

SEVERAL AFL captains have savaged the sliding rule that has been introduced this year.

The leaders gathered in Melbourne to mark the new season and those against the rule said it would affect a fundamental element of the game.

Of the 15 club captains surveyed by the Herald Sun, eight were against it.

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Adelaide captain Nathan van Berlo said outlawing contact below the knees would change "how we played our footy growing up".

Hawthorn counterpart Luke Hodge said the interpretation would rob the game of acts of desperation.

As trialled in the NAB Cup, a free kick will be awarded against a player who makes forceful contact below the knees of an opponent.

>> SCROLL BELOW TO SEE THE RESULTS OF THE HERALD SUN'S CAPTAINS SURVEY

Van Berlo was the most vocal in his opposition to the rule, saying he worried it would be misinterpreted by umpires and players.

"That's how we played our footy growing up, so to remove that completely from the game is going to be very difficult," he said.

AFL Captains, Joel Selwood and Gary Ablett, Picture: Ludbey Wayne Source: HWT Image Library

"For the odd occurrence where there's an injury, I understand the AFL's concern, but I don't think there's a drastic need to change it."

Hodge agreed with the need to outlaw players sliding into contests knees first.

"But with the sliding head-first desperation stuff, I don't agree with that," he said. "You've got to be able to slide and put your body on the line.

NAB Cup SuperCoach scores

"That's what Glenn Archer was known for and why he played so many games.

"I agree with the knees first but head first, that's going to take away a lot of the desperation stuff the fans want to see and that's what makes our game so good."

St Kilda skipper Nick Riewoldt was in favour of the rule, saying "anything that protects players from serious leg injuries (is good)".

But confusion reigned among many, even for those in favour of the change.

Melbourne's Jack Grimes said the AFL needed to explain the rule better.

Swans co-captain Jarrad McVeigh said Saturday's practice match against Port Adelaide had proved the rule was not clearly understood.

AFL Captains, Joel Selwood and Gary Ablett, Picture: Ludbey Wayne Source: HWT Image Library

"Dan Hannebery kept his feet, picked the ball up and a player dived at his legs with their head and they got the free kick for high contact, but Hanners got hit below the knees, so we couldn't work it out," McVeigh said.

"The rule is if you stay on your feet and take the ball, then you're in the right.

"If you just keep your feet, then that's all you can do. You've just got to keep your feet and try to take the ball. If not, you tackle."

AFL CAPTAINS SURVEY

1. Which seven other clubs do you think will make the top eight?

Sydney (17)
Collingwood, West Coast, Hawthorn (16)
Fremantle, Geelong (15)
Adelaide (14)
Carlton (11)
Essendon, North Melbourne, Richmond (2)

2. Which other club will reach the Grand Final?

Hawthorn, West Coast (7),
Collingwood, Fremantle, Geelong, Sydney Swans (1)

3. Who do you think will win the 2013 Coleman Medal?

Lance Franklin (8)
Taylor Walker (4)
Jack Riewoldt (3)
Tom Hawkins (2)
Drew Petrie (1)

4. Who do you think will win the 2013 NAB AFL Rising Star?

Jaeger O'Meara (9)
Lachie Whitfield, Ollie Wines (2)
Bradley Hill, Will Hoskin-Elliott, Jonathan O'Rourke, Jake Stringer, Jack Viney (1)

HERALD SUN CAPTAINS SURVEY (Matthew Pavlich and Darren Glass were absent and Jobe Watson was unavailable)

1. Do you support the new sliding rule?

YES: 7
NO: 8

ADELAIDE CAPTAIN NATHAN VAN BERLO:
"No. I think it's going to be mis-interpreted so I think it needs some further change. It will be interesting to see how the umpires interpret it. I just think, particularly when it's wet, that's part of what people love coming to see, those collisions, as players that's how we played our footy growing up so to remove that completely from the game is going to be very difficult to do.

"For the odd occurance where there's an injury, I understand the AFL's concern, but I don't think there's a drastic need to change it."

2. Should the league bring in an interchange cap of 80?

YES: 3
NO: 12

HAWTHORN CAPTAIN LUKE HODGE:
"I don't want them to jump into it too early. Whether they put in a cap or not I reckon the game looks pretty good as it is.

"They're fastening the game up a lot more with how quickly they throw the ball in, how quickly the umpires ball it up and now with the kick-in from a point is six seconds so they're trying to fasten the game up but then give the blokes less rotations. I think they've got to ease up there.''

3. Should there be two byes in the season?

YES: 15
NO: 0

MELBOURNE CAPTAIN JACK GRIMES
"If there are less rotations and guys a pulling up sore, I guess (two byes) would be a good thing.''

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Sandi suffers another setback

SIDELINED: Aaron Sandilands has suffered a fresh injury setback on the eve of the season. Picture: Wayne Ludbey Source: Herald Sun

FREMANTLE has received mixed ruck news this morning, with Aaron Sandilands suffering an injury setback but Zac Clarke still in the frame for Round 1.

The Dockers this morning confirmed Sandilands had aggravated the left hamstring injury he sustained in the first week of the NAB Cup.

The 30-year-old is set to travel to Melbourne to consult a specialist. It is unclear how the setback will affect the original timeframe of four weeks for the ruckman's return.

"Once Aaron has been assessed by the specialist and we have his medical report, we will be in a position to comment further on the preferred course of action," football operations manager Chris Bond said.

Sandilands has played just 27 of a possible 46 games in the past two seasons.

In better news for the Dockers, fellow ruckman Zac Clarke has not yet been ruled out of Saturday's derby clash with West Coast.

Clarke limped off the track at Fremantle Oval yesterday after appearing to suffer an injury to his lower right leg.

Bond said the ruck giant had been cleared of serious injury and would be monitored throughout the week.

"Zac will be assessed throughout the week to determine if he is available to play in Round 1," he said.

Follow Chris Robinson on Twitter: @CJKRobinson

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We handle Swanny: Buckley

Collingwood's Dane Swan and Dale Thomas. Are their antics hurting Collingwood? Picture: Michael Klein Source: Herald Sun

COLLINGWOOD coach Nathan Buckley has defended star midfielder Dane Swan in the wake of Paul Roos declaring the Magpies would be "getting sick" of his antics.

"I think we handle Swanny pretty well, he enjoys the environment," Buckley told Nova 100.

Swan's rocky relationship with Collingwood was strained further recently when he gave a paid television interview without the club's permission.

"I thought that he and his management made a poor decision not to notify the footy club. And, it's pretty clear it was not with the club's best interests in mind and Swanny was fined accordingly," Buckley said.

"In the end Dane Swan is training really well at the footy club.  We have progressed on what we saw from his preseason last year."

"Most of the boys are in that situation. We are really looking forward to hitting the season with a full head of steam, Swanny and every player at the footy club  is looking forward to our footy doing the talking rather than responding to headlines.

"Wherever (Swan) was last year he is in better shape this year... and that's all you can ever ask for in a player."

Last night, Roos suggested Swan and Magpie Dale Thomas' contract negotiations threatened to derail Collingwood's premiership campaign.

While Thomas, who is known to be Swan's closest friend at the Magpies, then came out yesterday to declare he'll "never say never" about signing at another club, adding he has got to get "money in the pocket."

Roos said it was a growing issue for Collingwood and could hurt them in the way the Travis Cloke contract issue disrupted the club last year.

"I think Collingwood are extremely well placed to win a premiership this year," Roos said on Fox Footy's On the Couch last night.

"But if you have players that don't want to conform to your team ethos...I would suggest there would be some players at the Collingwood Football Club that would be getting sick of Dane Swan."

Roos, who was pivotal in establishing in Sydney's famous culture, said Swan was the main aggravator at Collingwood.

But he also targeted Thomas, who he said should know better.

"They know they are playing for a big football club- everything they do and say is going to be analysed," Roos said.

"We saw it last year with Cloke.

"I was concerned with Thomas the comments he made."

Miss last night's AFL shows? Read our TV footy wrap

It is no secret Thomas is very close to Carlton coach Mick Malthouse.

He has also has strong ties to Carlton chief executive and former Magpie Greg Swann, whose family he lived with a short time in his early days with the club.

Cats fans to tell Selwood what to call at coin toss

Roos said all these comments added up when trying to win a premiership.

"You have to understand what you're saying - you're playing for the biggest football team in Australia," he said.

"You know, even if they're tongue and cheek, someone is going to take them and put them in some sort of context.

"You have to be careful," he said.

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Petterd, Goodes promoted

Amazing transition: Brett Goodes was the Western Bulldogs' player welfare manager this time last year, playing with VFL affiliate Williamstown. Picture: Michael Klein Source: Herald Sun

Brett Goodes shows promise in an early NAB Cup match. Picture: Michael Klein Source: Herald Sun

UPDATE: THE Cinderella story of Brett Goodes has taken another step with the brother of Adam upgraded to the Dogs' senior list.

Seven rookies were upgraded to senior lists today, including two Magpies, a Lion and a Blue.

UPGRADED ROOKIES:

Brett Goodes (Western Bulldogs)
Ricky Petterd (Richmond)
Orren Stephenson (Richmond)
Jack Frost (Collingwood)
Ben Hudson (Collingwood)
Ed Curnow (Carlton)
Justin Clarke (Lions)

SuperCoaches awaiting the potential upgrade of Port Adelaide's Kane Mitchell or Geelong's Mark Blicavs need not fear - they are still in the running to be replacements for teammates on the long-term injury list, so they can be elevated at any time.

The 29-year-old Goodes was the Bulldogs' player welfare manager this time last year, playing with VFL affiliate Williamstown.

His promotion was confirmed this morning.

The Lions have also moved early, upgrading 19-year-old defender Justin Clarke to their senior list, while Richmond has confirmed its two vacant senior list spots will be taken by former Demon Ricky Petterd and delisted Geelong ruckman Orren Stephenson.

Petterd was delisted by the Dees after playing 54 games from 2007-12 as a forward, but he has been playing across half-back for the Tigers during the NAB Cup.

Stephenson was one of the stories of the 2011 national draft when he was plucked by the Cats at age 29. He played eight matches last season before being axed, then given another lifeline as a back-up for Tigers big man Ivan Maric.

Bulldogs football manager James Fantasia said Goodes' addition to the senior list would be warmly received by his teammates.

"They'll all be thrilled if and when he gets his opportunity to play," Fantasia said.

"He's certainly done it the hard way in terms of career path. I think this a dream come true for him. I'm sure there would have been a time when he thought the AFL dream might have passed him by."

Fantasia said Goodes was no guarantee to play in Round 1 against the Lions on Saturday week.

"I wouldn't want to pre-empt that completely," he said. "But what it does do is it shows that the coaches have got a lot of confidence in what Brett's doing and what he has to offer."

Geelong talls Blicavs and Josh Walker, both in contention to play Hawthorn in Round 1, are likely to be promoted off the rookie list as long-term injury replacements for Dawson Simpson (back), Lincoln McCarthy (foot) and Josh Cowan (achilles).

At Port, mature-aged recruit Mitchell is in the box seat to win a short-term senior spot in place of the injured Nick Salter, but last year's revelation Darren Pfeiffer is also in the mix.

Veteran Ben Hudson will win his way on to a fourth senior list.

Magpies football manager Geoff Walsh confirmed the club would upgrade two players today.

"We've got some set thoughts on it, but we haven't told any of the players yet," Walsh said.

The Pies opted for key defender Jack Frost as their second elevated rookie, ahead of 26-year-old VFL star Sam Dwyer.

BELOW: The rookie situation at your club

SANFL football - Woodville-West Torrens Eagles vs West Adelaide match at Unleash Solar Oval. Rory Laird marks. Picture: Sarah Reed Source: Herald Sun

ADELAIDE
Rookies: Ben Dowdell, Kyle Hartigan, Tim Klaosen, Rory Laird (above), Timothy McIntyre, Dylan Orval, Jack Osborn

Adelaide has a fit and full list of 40 and won't elevate a rookie on Tuesday.

"At this stage, barring a serious injury we won't be elevating any of our current rookies until the mid-season rookie upgrade (Round 11). (Our rookies) have all had good pre-seasons and have shown positive signs, with running defender Rory Laird the standout. Kyle Hartigan, a key defender recruited from Werribee, has also impressed." - Crows List manager David Noble.

BRISBANE LIONS
Rookies: Callum Bartlett, Jordon Bourke, Justin Clarke, Nick Hayes, Sam Michael, Richard Newell, Stephen Wrigley

Brisbane has one spot available on its senior list and had upgraded young defender Clarke.

"The decision was based largely on his form in the pre-season, where he has demonstrated that he has developed well enough to be considered for senior selection at some stage in 2013. From a list point of view he also provides us with some depth in an area where we are potentially exposed due to injury." - national talent manager Rob Kerr

CARLTON

Rookies: Tom Bell, Jaryd Cachia, Andrew Collins, Ed Curnow, Frazer Dale, Rhys O'Keefe.

The Blues had two vacancies on their list, but they have now been filled.

"We have Ed Curnow as an upgraded rookie and Tom Bell has been elevated for Andrew McInnes, who has a long-term injury." - Blues football administration manager Shane O'Sullivan.

COLLINGWOOD
Rookies: Sam Dwyer, Jack Frost, Michael Hartley, Ben Hudson, Kyle Martin, Caolan Mooney, Adam Oxley, Ben Richmond, Peter Yagmoor

Collingwood has 38 players on its senior list and can elevate two players.

"All of our rookies are in the frame ... we will avail ourselves of that opportunity to nominate two players, we've got the space to do that and we've been given the all-clear by the AFL to do that from a salary cap point of view." - Magpies football manager Geoff Walsh.

ESSENDON
Rookies: Lauchlan Dalgleish, Cory Dell'Olio, Hal Hunter, Ariel Steinberg.

Essendon has a fit list of 40 players so won't be elevating a rookie today.

"Thankfully we don't have a long-term injured player at this point in time." - Bombers football operations manager Danny Corcoran.

FREMANTLE
Rookies: Alex Howson, Sam Menegola, Craig Moller, Haiden Schloithe, Matt Taberner.

The Dockers have a full list of 40 and no room to promote a rookie.

Geelong vs Adelaide at Skilled Stadium, Geelong. Mark Blicavs over Sam Jacobs Picture: Klein Michael Source: Herald Sun

GEELONG
Rookies: Ryan Bathie, Mark Blicavs (above), George Burbury, Cameron Eardley, Jackson Sheringham, Josh Walker

The Cats have 40 on their list, but have put midfielder Josh Cowan, forward Lincoln McCarthy and ruckman Dawson Simpson on their long-term injury list, meaning they can accommodate three rookie upgrades before Round 1.

"It's nice to have that option of having a few rookies who are in form and giving the coach some options. We've got guys putting their hands up to play." - Cats list manager Stephen Wells.

HAWTHORN
Rookies: Andrew Boseley, Jonathon Ceglar, Amos Frank, Will Langford, Derick Wanganeen

The club has a full list of 40 and won't be nominating a rookie today.

"The club has placed Brendan Whitecross onto the long-term injury list and with Matt Suckling and Alex Woodward rehabilitating from long-term knee injuries we haven't made any decisions about upgrading a rookie player, which we can do at any stage throughout the season." - Hawks recruiting and list manager Graham Wright.

GOLD COAST
Rookies: Andrew Boston, Josh Hall, Leigh Osborne

With 42 players on its list, and also with a need to trim that to 40 next year, Gold Coast is not in a position to elevate any rookies.

GREATER WESTERN SYDNEY
Rookies: Joseph Redfern, Zachary Williams

With only two rookies on its books and a full playing list, GWS has no wiggle room.
 

St Kilda v Melbourne. MCG. Beau Wilkes battles for the ball with James Magner Picture: George Salpigtidis Source: Herald Sun

MELBOURNE
Rookies: Mitch Clisby, Tom Couch, James Magner (above), Nathan Stark

"We haven't got a nominated rookie spot, so players are only elevated in the case of long-term injuries. We have Max Gawn on the long-term injury list but he's due to come off in the next few weeks. James Magner and Tom Couch, who have both played AFL, are both on our rookie list." - Demons football manager Josh Mahoney.

NORTH MELBOURNE
Rookies: Tim McGenniss, Cameron Richardson, Ben Speight, Eric Wallace, Max Warren

North Melbourne does not have an available spot to upgrade a rookie.

PORT ADELAIDE
Rookies: Danny Butcher, Justin Hoskin, Kane Mitchell, Darren Pfeiffer

Port Adelaide has a full list of 40, but has Nick Salter on the long-term injury list and so can elevate a replacement.

"Tomorrow's irrelevant for us ... we can name a replacement for Salter whenever we want. It won't be happening (today)." - Power football manager Peter Rohde.

RICHMOND
Rookies: Ricky Petterd, Sam Lonergan, Steven Verrier, Cadeyn Williams, Orren Stepheneson, Ben Darrou

Richmond said it still hadn't decided last night which rookies to upgrade, but this morning gave the nod to ex-Demon Petterd and former Cat Stephenson. Former Bomber Sam Lonergan made a late bid for promotion with some excellent clearance work in the wet against the Bulldogs last Saturday, but he was beaten by Petterd's versatility and the Tigers' thin ruck stocks.

- No comment provided by club.

Richmond player Ricky Petterd could be investigated over alleged "vile abuse". Source: Herald Sun

ST KILDA
Rookies: Tom Curren, Jackson Ferguson, Darren Minchington, Cameron Shenton, Jordan Staley

No upgrade space available with a full list to choose from.
 

MELBOURNE, AUSTRALIA - MARCH 03: Dane Rampe of the Sydney Swans runs with the ball during the round two AFL NAB Cup match between the St Kilda Saints and the Sydney Swans at Etihad Stadium on March 3, 2013 in Melbourne, Australia. (Photo by Michael Dodge/Getty Images) Source: Herald Sun

SYDNEY
Rookies: Shane Biggs, Brandon Jack, Jake Lloyd, Sam Naismith, Dane Rampe (above), Xavier Richards, Daniel Robinson

The Swans have Alex Johnson and Gary Rohan on their long-term injury list. Rampe, a Sydney-raised defender who has trained previously with the Western Bulldogs, is likely to get promoted as a fill-in for Johnson, while midfielders Jack - the younger brother of Kieren - and Lloyd are expected to battle for the other spot.

- No comment provided by club.

WEST COAST
Rookies: Jamie Bennell, Jeremy McGovern, Callum Sinclair, Simon Tunbridge

Mark Nicoski (hamstring) has been put on the long-term injury list, creating space for a rookie promotion. Ruckman Callum Sinclair could be called upon to help cover injured big man Nic Naitanui.

"The coaching staff don't usually promote anyone unless they think they will be in the (squad of) 25." - Eagles spokesman.

WESTERN BULLDOGS
Rookies: Mark Austin, Brett Goodes, Alex Greenwood, Lin Jong, Jack Redpath

The club has 39 players on its senior list and will upgrade Brett Goodes today.

"It's a great result for him. He's worked really hard over the pre-season and I think it's starting to play dividends. I think even his pre-season form has been enough to suggest he'll be a worthy rookie nomination." - Bulldogs football manager James Fantasia.

COMPILED BY: Warwick Green, Jon Ralph, Jay Clark, Sam Edmund, Eliza Sewell, Matt Windley

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Every AFL club previewed

Lance Franklin is set for a bumper year at Hawthorn - his last on his current contract. Picture: Wayne Ludbey Source: Herald Sun

EVERY CLUB PREVIEWED: HAWTHORN'S season doesn't start until preliminary final weekend, while get set for some Carlton and Collingwood domination this year.

Our Herald Sun footy experts have gone through every club, scouring players to watch, SuperCoach bargains and analysing their years ahead.

SuperCoach is back! Free to play & you could win $50,000

And it's more good news for Mick Malthouse's Blues, with the prediction they could well be heading for a top-four finish.

>> SCROLL DOWN FOR LINKS TO EVERY CLUB'S PREVIEW

It's even better for Magpie fans. A top-two berth could be on the cards, with Travis Cloke set to form a crucial part of their flag hopes.

See Brad Johnson's take on every club with his exclusive SuperFooty videos

The drugs scandal could prove too much of a distraction for Essendon, while Brad Johnson predicts Geelong will be hanging on for dear life in 2013.

There's more pain ahead for the Dees, with former Cat Tom Gillies' career about to enter the crossroads, while the time is now for Robbie Tarrant.

He's tipped to stand up and make a name for himself in North Melbourne's forward line this year.

The finals beckon for Richmond finally, with great expectations to be placed on that colourful kid called Dustin Martin.

Ultimate SuperCoach form guide

Justin Koschitzke is about to have a heap of pressure dumped on him, with his place in St Kilda's side no longer guaranteed, while the Saints are also set for a tumble.

Meanwhile, it could be another long year for the Dogs, with their lack of scoring power again likely to resonate.

Click here for CARLTON'S season preview

Click here for COLLINGWOOD'S season preview
 
Click here for ESSENDON'S season preview

Click here for GEELONG'S season preview

Click here for HAWTHORN'S season preview

Click here for MELBOURNE'S season preview

Click here for NORTH MELBOURNE'S season preview

Click here for RICHMOND'S season preview

Click here for ST KILDA'S season preview

Click here for the WESTERN BULLDOGS' season preview

Click here for ADELAIDE'S season preview

Click here for BRISBANE LIONS' season preview

Click here for FREMANTLE'S season preview

Click here for GOLD COAST'S season preview

Click here for the GIANTS' season preview

Click here for PORT ADELAIDE'S season preview

Click here for SYDNEY'S season preview

Click here for WEST COAST'S season preview

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Demetriou cashes in on bonuses

AFL chief executive Andrew Demetriou Source: Herald Sun

AFL boss Andrew Demetriou received $440,000 worth of bonuses last year, the league's annual report reveals.

The game's most powerful man earned $1.88m in 2012, a package which included superannuation, bonuses and an $88,000 pay rise.

He pocketed $2.2 million in 2010.

The annual report also revealed a record revenue for the 2012 season of $425m and a $6.7m profit.

About $290m was distributed among the 18 AFL clubs.

The turnaround in fortunes comes after the league leaked $24m in 2011 – most of it spent on setting up expansion clubs Greater Western Sydney and Gold Coast.

The AFL Grand Final was the most-watched sporting event in Australia last year with an average audience of 4.08 million people.

While total attendances fell from 7.48m people in 2011 to 7.37m last year, memberships soared for the 12th consecutive year with 707,621 people (up from 650,373) signing up with clubs.

AFL Commission chairman Mike Fitzpatrick attributed a fall in attendances to the league's expansion in western Sydney and Gold Coast.

The league's executive arm, made up of eight members, earned $4.5m in salaries and bonuses.

Demetriou told the Australian Financial Review club finances were improving while the league would buy Etihad Stadium if the price was right.

He said the outlook remained bright despite recent scandals including salary cap breaches in Adelaide and the Essendon supplements investigation.

"It's fair enough for the public to be questioning some of the things going on, including the ethics and integrity of the clubs and the league," he said.

"There is no doubt the clubs have to understand there should be no cutting corners and no win-at-all-costs mentality and no doing anything that jeopardises the pureness of the sport."

League bosses will meet with club chiefs on Wednesday to nut out ways of bridging the gap between the rich and poorer clubs.

"There's no doubt procuring the ­stadium earlier would provide a financial boost to all of our clubs," Demetriou said.

"We have looked at it but are not in any serious dialogue at the moment. We are not in a position to meet the expectations of the [vendors] at the moment."

Demetriou said two Melbourne clubs inquired about exiting from their pokies contracts.

North Melbourne remains the only AFL club without poker machines bolstering its bottom line.

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Tigers primed for Round 1

Richmond star Brett Deledio in full flight against the Western Bulldogs at Visy Park. Picture: George Salpigtidis Source: Herald Sun

RICHMOND coach Damien Hardwick came away from yesterday's nine-point win over the Western Bulldogs confident his team was in great shape for its Round 1 showdown against Carlton.

The Tigers have dropped only one game in the pre-season and have almost a full list to chose from for the season opener on Thursday week.

Against the Dogs they came from 18 points down in the third quarter to kick seven of the last nine goals in scrappy conditions at Visy Park, and did so with subdued performances from key players Trent Cotchin (18 disposals), Jack Riewoldt (one goal and six disposals), Dustin Martin and Chris Newman (10 possessions each).

''It was a tough old game really, and the conditions weren't really great, but to walk away at the end of the NAB Cup campaign with four wins and one loss was a reasonable result for us,'' Hardwick said.

Jake King and Daniel Jackson, who were rested yesterday, are both expected to be available for the Round 1 match against the Blues.

Chris Knights and Dylan Grimes, who have had injury-interrupted pre-seasons, are expected to get at least a half in Coburg's VFL match against Weribee on Sunday.

Nathan Foley remains at least a month away from playing.

The Tigers had six multiple goalkickers, led by ruckman Ivan Maric, with Luke McGuane (two goals) presenting as a third marking forward.

''He was good, kicked a couple of goals,'' Hardwick said. ''He does compete, Luke, that's the one thing we love about him.''

The Bulldogs were disappointed they could not finish off the march, but would be encouraged by knowing about a half a dozen new faces could come into the team that finished the 2012 season, with Brett Goodes, Jason Johannisen, Nick Lower and Tom Young among those with strong cases for inclusion.

Lower did exceptionally well nullifying Cotchin, restricting him to just six disposals in the first half and frustrating the Tigers skipper throughout.

Assistant coach Brett Montgomery was buoyed that experienced core played well, but several recruits had played well.

''At the selection table ... we've got plenty to choose from and there were at least 12 or 13 weeks last year where that wasn't the case and we were just putting whatever we had out there,'' Montgomery said.

Adam Cooney (24 touches) showed glimpses of the explosive best that was a feature of his glory days, Robert Murphy was damaging alternating between half forward and half back and Daniel Giansiracusa (two goals) was a constant threat.

Ryan Griffen collected 30 possessions and Dale Morris totally outplayed Riewoldt.

Montgomery said the club was hopeful Shaun Higgins, Easton Wood and possibly Tom Williams would be available for the Round 1 match against Brisbane Lions at Etihad Stadium, although the Dogs were conscious of not including several underdone players in the 22.

Higgins and Wood are likely to play at VFL level next weekend.

Hardwick also backed the AFL's new sliding rules after the match.

''Overall I think the rule is great, I really like it. 54 free kicks today is a lot of free kicks. It's really hard for the umpires to administer. Is it forceful contact or is it (just) contact .... wet conditions is tough. I think the overriding concept is good.

''There's a couple though on a wet day where a guy slides to get the ball and a player falls over the top. They're probably the ones where we have to wait and see (how the rule is interpreted).''

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Thomas in no hurry to sign

Collingwood midfielder Dale Thomas says he is in no hurry to re-sign. Picture: Wayne Ludbey. Source: Herald Sun

COLLINGWOOD midfielder Dale Thomas says there is no point rushing to sign a new contract after ankle surgery and a modest 2012.

Thomas said he wanted the chance to build on his form before he started contract talks.

"There is no point in me signing currently coming off the year that I had last year and just coming back with an injury,'' Thomas said on Channel 7's Game Day.

"I would like to think I would give myself a bit of time to get some form up, play some good footy and then start talking contracts.

Injuries: Reid, Thomas a chance, not Faz and Krak

"But at the minute I am sure the club would like to get my signature at the minute because it would be worth next to nothing.''

Thomas said he had not set a time-frame for his contract negotiations, but was mindful of protracted talks turning into a "circus''.

"I think I will just let it unfold. I don't want to a put a time on it and say I will wait until the end of the year,'' Thomas said.

"But the last thing I want is for it to become a circus as these things over the past few years for other players have kind of happened.

"The last I want is for that to happen. My signature will go on a piece of paper at some point, as it has to happen.''

Thomas, who had surgery in November, said he remained hopeful of being ready to play in the Round 1 clash against North Melbourne at Etihad Stadium.

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