Summary
That’s all from me on a huge day of Australian sport - particularly in the AFL with finals spots, double-chances and home ground advantages on the line. Surely the most disappointing team of the day was Melbourne, whose finals spot is now on the line after their loss to a rejuvenated Magpies outfit (possibly desperate to save their coach). That gives some interest to the Adelaide v West Coast clash, as well as the Essendon v Fremantle game tomorrow, both of which should finalise the final eight. The Saints can also make it if they overcome Richmond and Essendon lose- while the Tigers will need to win to finish in the top four. Can’t wait for tomorrow’s action - which I’ll be covering for you tomorrow with another edition of Sportwatch. I’ll also keep an eye on the Coleman medal race - with Lance Franklin now 5 clear of Josh Kennedy with a massive bag of 10 today in an incredible individual performance.
Another piece of news worth mentioning is that Tom Lonergan and Andrew Mackie have both announced they will retire at season’s end.
In the NRL - a huge win to the Storm solidifies their premiership credentials, while the Roosters overran the Sharks in a controversial game - leapfrogging into second on the ladder.
Finally, in netballing news, new captain Caitlin Bassett led the Australians to a close win over England in their Quad Series campaign.
See you all tomorrow from 1pm AEST.
AFL Port Adelaide Power 20.15 (135) beat Gold Coast Suns 3.2 (20)
Huge win by the Power over the Suns, which keeps their top-four hopes alive. They’ve now overtaken the Swans in fourth - but will need to wait on the result of the Richmond v St Kilda game to see if they have qualified for a second chance. If Richmond loses the Power will finish fourth, and play Adelaide in what would be an extra high-stakes Showdown. However, if Richmond win Port will finish fifth - and host an elimination final.
Sam Gray finished with a bag of six goals (a career-high for him) while Charlie Dixon also finished with four.
Gold Coast managed the lowest score by any team this season - with no goals in the second or third quarters, and now finish in 17th (for the second pick in the draft). You’d think that ends Dean Solomon’s chances of coaching the team.
NRL Sydney Roosters beat Cronulla Sharks 16-14
Just checking Wires for the wrap on the NRL - and it looks like the Sydney Roosters jumped to second on the ladder after a controversial, nail-biting, 16-14 win over Cronulla. With the scores locked heading to the final two minutes, Sharks skipper Paul Gallen gave away a penalty for holding onto Boyd Cordner too long and Michael Gordon booted the penalty conversion from 20 metres out, handing the visitors an invaluable win.
James Maloney and Mitchell Pearce both missed field goal attempts in a frantic closing stanza, which was marred by a series of controversial decisions. With nine minutes remaining, Luke Keary was sin-binned for a strip on Luke Lewis after a break. In the next set, the Sharks took advantage of their one-man advantage with Lewis steaming through the hole where the Roosters five-eighth usually defends to even up the scores.
However, the Roosters held on and the reigning premiers could now sink as low as sixth if results run against them on Sunday, putting their NRL title defence on thin ice. Cronulla also have a headache after losing Wade Graham in the 20th minute to a suspected corked calf.
- AAP
Geelong Cats 13.13 (91) beat GWS Giants 8.11 (59)
Thumping, convincing win by the Cats who made the Giants look second-rate. I have no doubt the Giants will be back and out for revenge next week - potentially against the same team, on the same ground (I’m sure we’ll hear debate about Simonds all week). That’s eight times in 11 seasons that the Cats have finished top-two: unbelievable how they’ve been able to recruit and draft their way to so much sustained success. It defies equalising measures and is enviable. They looked ominous tonight, the Cats, and will hopefully also welcome back their skipper for the finals.
The result means the Adelaide Crows will finish minor premiers.
Still some water under the bridge for the rest of the ladder positions and finals match-ups, but things are looking a little clearer. Will check in on the Port Adelaide game, and recap tonight’s NRL action before I sign off.
AFL Q4 00:40 Geelong Cats 15.13 (103) v GWS Giants 9.10 (59)
34 disposals to Menegola for the night and he kicks a third goal for the icing on the cake - huge game from him, might even take the 3 votes off Danger.
AFL Q4 01:37 Geelong Cats 14.13 (97) v GWS Giants 9.10 (59)
24 contested possessions to Danger - 24!! Menegola next best on 12. They’ve stationed Callan Ward on him but it’s a bit late.
Tom Hawkins takes a chest mark inside 50 but misses to the right. Liked his game though - looks extremely dangerous pushed up the ground, and will be a weapon for the Cats in the finals.
Wait - Hawkins has another shot, and he’ll make no mistake this time, taking a diving mark in the square. Cats out to 38 points.
AFL Q4 07:35 Geelong Cats 13.12 (90) v GWS Giants 9.10 (58)
Another consolation for the Giants - goal to Toby Greene after a score review - no conclusive evidence it was touched.
Meanwhile in the NRL, thrilling finish in the Roosters v Sharks game - will update you on that one in a moment (once this game is over).
AFL Q4 10:16 Geelong Cats 13.12 (90) v GWS Giants 8.9 (51)
Third goal to Jeremy Cameron is a consolation for the Giants. Their players look frustrated - seeing some of that trademark peer-to-peer GWS aggression spilling over.
AFL Q4 11:15 Geelong Cats 13.12 (90) v GWS Giants 6.9 (45)
Reckon I agree with this sentiment. They’re openly laughing about it in the box but it’s genuinely infuriating.
If Ling can't stop barracking during Geelong games - and he can't - don't have him commentating them #aflcatsgiants
— lclmnts (@lclmnts) August 26, 2017
AFL Q4 12:15 Geelong Cats 13.12 (90) v GWS Giants 6.9 (45)
Callan Ward up to 27 disposals for his team - he’s led the way with 9 contested possessions and 5 clearances.
Right down the bottom of the Giants’ stat sheet is Steve Johnson with just the seven disposals. Not sure he’ll get picked for finals - surely tonight was the night he was going to fire.
AFL Q4 17:39 Geelong Cats 13.12 (90) v GWS Giants 6.7 (43)
Geelong will through a goal through sheer perseverance. It goes to Murdoch but Hawkins won at least a couple of contested possessions in the lead-up. Giants barely giving a yelp now.
AFL three-quarter-time Geelong Cats 12.11 (83) v GWS Giants 6.7 (43)
Six goals to one that quarter, and a 40 point lead to the Cats. Can’t see a way back for the Giants from here.
I’ll take a quick break but the Power are up 12.9 (81) to Gold Coast 2.1 (13). A big percentage boost awaits for Port.
AFL Q3 02:06 remaining Geelong Cats 12.11 (83) v GWS Giants 6.7 (43)
Goal to Jeremy Cameron for a hold - ump missed the fact that he initiated the hold, but nevermind.
Uh oh - Rory Lobb looked all at sea and let Murdoch’s bomb at goal bounce, and missed everything in the spoil attempt. Score review shows he doesn’t get a touch on it.
AFL Q3 04:32 remaining Geelong Cats 11.11 (77) v GWS Giants 5.7 (37)
In case anyone’s wondering why the umpires have worn blue every game this round - they’re raising money for OPSM charity OneSight - read about it here. I did wonder who chose blue for the Bulldogs v Hawks game.. anyway let’s not talk about that game.
Henderson boots a goal for the Cats and it’s looking ominous for the Giants. If they win it’ll be their home final - maybe at Simonds.
AFL Q3 07:00 remaining Geelong Cats 10.11 (71) v GWS Giants 5.7 (37)
Speaking of the man, it’s a goal to Danger, who roves his own spoil off a pack and makes something out of nothing. Brilliant.
Updated
AFL Q3 08:52 remaining Geelong Cats 9.11 (65) v GWS Giants 5.7 (37)
Dangerfield up to a massive 18 contested possessions. Next best is Menegola on 9. Casual brag I am currently ranked 890th overall in Supercoach and he’s my captain. Go Danger.
Outstanding kick from Hawkins finds Menegola - who is also having a huge game - in the pocket - but he misses. Like Hawkins up the ground.
“Patton held up... that’s been the pattern” - not sure about that pun, thanks Channel 7.
AFL Q3 13:11 remaining Geelong Cats 9.9 (63) v GWS Giants 5.6 (36)
Two in a row to the Cats after a beautiful roving goal to Steve Motlop who finds space between four Giants’ defenders. The goal was set up by a big contested grab by Patrick Dangerfield from the kick-off. He had two bites of it and held them all off with his mythic core strength. Wonder if he’ll top the Brownlow after all...
Make that three in a row after Menegola takes a free kick in the 50 and kicks truly.
James Parsons out of the game with a leg injury. Sad for him just before finals.
AFL Q3 15:59 remaining Geelong Cats 7.8 (50) v GWS Giants 5.6 (36)
For those wondering, at half-time the Power are leading 9.6 (60) v Gold Coast 2.1 (13). Margin and percentage will count come next week.
Daniel Menzel snaps a goal for the Cats for the first goal of the third quarter.
AFLW
Don’t forget the AFLW State of Origin is on next weekend - free entry at Etihad stadium next Saturday night.
Rugby Union - All Blacks beat Wallabies 35-29
Heartbreak for the Wallabies with the All Blacks stealing victory with a last-gasp Beauden Barrett try. The Wallabies looked to have the win with a Kurtley Beale try with four minutes to go, putting Australia ahead 29-28. However Barrett’s response sealed the win for New Zealand - and consigned the Australians to their 15th consecutive Bledisloe loss.
Be sure to check out Paul Connolly’s blog as it happened.
AFL half-time Geelong Cats 6.7 (43) v GWS Giants 5.6 (36)
“Selwood - did he duck the head”? I feel like I’ve heard that one before.
21 clearances to 16 for GWS, but 71 contested possessions to 65 for Geelong. Worryingly for the Cats, the Giants are tackling much harder: 41-27, despite even possessions.
Dangerfield (19 possessions, 14 contested, 6 clearances) and Menegola (18 disposals, 7 contested possessions, 2 clearances and 2 tackles) leading the way for the Cats.
Callan Ward (19 possessions, 9 contested possessions, 6 clearances) is matching Danger’s output, while Shiel also has 17 disposals (7 contested, 4 clearances, 3 tackles).
AFL Q2 01:38 remaining Geelong Cats 6.5 (41) v GWS Giants 5.6 (36)
Corridor opens up for the Giants - Jeremy Cameron has Scully in all sorts of space in the 50, the delivery is poor but he has plenty of time, who finds Toby Greene (also in space) for a goal. Nice work by the Giants. Don’t think Chris Scott will be pleased with the Giants’ resurgence.
AFL Q2 05:36 remaining Geelong Cats 6.5 (41) v GWS Giants 4.5 (29)
Just 13 points in it, even though the Cats have felt dominant on the face of it. Patton takes a lead-up mark from Josh Kelly - and they have a chance to come closer again. He misses a relatively easy one.
Giants leading clearances 17-15 - and tackles 35-23. Otherwise key stats are almost even.
AFL Q2 08:50 remaining Geelong Cats 6.5 (41) v GWS Giants 4.4 (28)
Buzza fumbles another contested mark and has another shot at goal - it’s out on the full. Dangerfield also had a shot on goal - but tried the don’t argue on Corr and was caught holding the ball. A rare mistake by him in a masterclass so far.
Like Toby Greene, Jon Patton gets a knee in the ribs - this time from his teammate Shane Mumford. He hobbles off. Wait, yet another Giant is down - this time Jacob Hopper - and it’s yet another knee in the ribs!
Meanwhile Jeremy Cameron converts a set shot to get the Giants back in it.
AFL Q2 12:28 remaining Geelong Cats 6.5 (41) v GWS Giants 3.4 (22)
Outstanding tackle pressure from the Cats is forcing turnovers from the Giants in the middle. Dangerfield up to 12 contested possessions.
Parsons looks hurt - he was held up in a tackle - and is heading to the rooms.
AFL Q2 14:24 remaining Geelong Cats 6.5 (41) v GWS Giants 3.3 (21)
Tom Stewart is involved in a couple of plays - first narrowly missing after a Deledio lands a fingernail tackle to divert his running shot at goal. Next, he hits up Wylie Buzza in space in the forward 50, who converts. GWS will need to avoid letting the Cats get so much run and overlap.
Toby Greene back on the ground after some heavy strapping.
NRL Melbourne Storm beat South Sydney Rabbitohs 64-6
It looks like Melbourne Storm will wrap up the minor premiership after their huge win over the Rabbitohs. Given the Broncos suffered one of their worst defeats against Parramatta on Thursday night (with the Eels putting on 50 points) the Storm look in a class of their own. That’s 14 in a row against the Rabbitohs for Melbourne.
From Wires:
Skipper Cameron Smith contributed 22 points, kicking nine from nine conversions as well as a first-half try. Although out of the finals race the Rabbitohs came into the AAMI Park match on the back of three wins but a fourth looked out of reach soon after the opening whistle.
They trailed 12-0 after five minutes and 36-0 by halftime with the home side piling on seven tries, including two to Suliasi Vunivalu. The winger was also involved in a penalty try when the bunker ruled Robert Jennings had held him back in the chase to the ball.
Any second half reprieve for Souths went out the window after just five minutes when it was Billy Slater’s turn to score, and then Josh Addo-Carr showed his blistering speed to dash 90 metres in a solo effort.
Souths only try came in the 64th minute through Tyrell Fuimaono from a Cody Walker kick but they suffered a late blow with skipper Sam Burgess put on report for a tackle that left Felice Kaufusi with a head knock and sparked an all-in brawl.
Addo-Carr finished with a hat-trick after Vunivalu took the ball from the Souths in-goal and raced 70m before putting it on his boot for his fellow winger to collect.
Updated
AFL quarter-time Geelong Cats 5.3 (33) v GWS Giants 3.1 (19)
Ouch. Toby Greene gets a knee in the ribs and looks in plenty of pain as he limps slowly back to his feet. The Giants pepper the 50, but Dangerfield is taken high and fittingly ends with the ball as the siren sounds. Dangerfield has a huge 13 disposals, eight contested possessions and give clearances. That’s rivaled by Cal Ward who also has 13 (give contested possessions, two clearances) and is leading the way for the Giants.
AFL 01:45 remaining Geelong Cats 5.3 (33) v GWS Giants 3.1 (19)
Steve Johnson finally touches it - and gets some ire from the crowd - but that’s nothing on what’s reserved for Toby Greene who lines up for goal on a sharp angle 45m out. He misses by a long way.
AFL 04:58 remaining Geelong Cats 5.3 (33) v GWS Giants 3.0 (18)
Brett Deledio bombs a long one for the Giants who needed a goal. Mumford, Johnson and Hopper haven’t touched it, while Josh Kelly only has the single possession.
Ball rockets down the other end for a mark to Menzel. Nice kick from Jed Bews. He gets the immediate reply.
Updated
AFL 06:40 remaining Geelong Cats 4.3 (27) v GWS Giants 2.0 (12)
Another mark to Hawkins on the lead - who kicks his first. He’s leading up to the ball - even on the wing. Reminds me of his breakout game up the ground against the Blues. He’s on fire - as are his teammates. Menegola (8), Dangerfield (8) and Duncan (7) look dangerous.
Updated
AFL 10:10 remaining Geelong Cats 3.3 (21) v GWS Giants 2.0 (12)
Hawkins finding plenty of space on Davis - has had three lead-up marks already. Giants again fail on the transition out of the forward line - with an intercept mark to Menegola, who nails the set shot from 45m out. Cats are on song.
AFL 12:53 remaining Geelong Cats 2.2 (14) v GWS Giants 2.0 (12)
Steve Johnson is his usual rampaging self and almost gives away 50m - much to the delight of the home crowd. Duncan takes the advantage and hits up Tom Hawkins. Duncan and Dangerfield on 5 touches each. He can’t convert.
AFL 15:15 remaining Geelong Cats 2.0 (12) v GWS Giants 2.0 (12)
Nice snap goal to Scott Selwood after some great forward pressure from the Cats turns it over. Liked the Tom Hawkins fend-off on Phil Davis.
AFL 16:03 remaining Geelong Cats 1.0 (6) v GWS Giants 2.0 (12)
There’s a finals footy-like intensity to this game, as there should be! The villain Toby Greene runs into 50 to the boos of the crowd and boots the second goal of the night for the Giants. Bad turnover from Tom Hawkins in the middle caused that goal.
AFL 17:17 remaining Geelong Cats 1.0 (6) v GWS Giants 1.0 (6)
Huuuge goal from outside 50 to Mitch Duncan. That gets the crowd fired up. A goal apiece.
AFL 19:00 remaining Geelong Cats 0.0 (0) v GWS Giants 1.0 (6)
Captain courageous Callan Ward (they called him ‘cement head’ at the Dogs) out of the middle to Jon Patton who takes a strong mark on Harry Taylor. He kicks it to give the Giants the first of the game.
Updated
Sydney Swans 21.12 (138) beat Carlton Blues 8.9 (57)
It’s all over at the SCG with the Swans jumping into the top four - pending Richmond’s game against the Saints tomorrow. At risk of jinxing it (as readers have pointed out below!) I think the Tigers should be too strong, surely. Then again, I thought too much was on line for the Demons to lose, too... then again it’s the Demons, but then again they’re the Tigers, right?
Lance Buddy Franklin finished with 10.2 in an ominous sign for upcoming opponents. Captain Josh Kennedy chimed in with 30 disposals (18 contested possessions, 8 clearances, 6 tackles) to lead his side to what became a convincing and stirring win leading into finals.
AFL Geelong Cats v GWS Giants
No late changes for this game - with Simonds looking mighty fine.
What a perfect backdrop for tonight's high-stakes finals preview. #AFLCatsGiants pic.twitter.com/vv5FPSkopB
— AFL on 7 (@7AFL) August 26, 2017
AFL Q4 02:52 remaining Sydney Swans 21.11 (137) v Carlton Blues 8.8 (56)
The Swans are hitting some scary form on the eve of the finals. Lance Franklin has just kicked a monster TEN goals (his record) - he has 23 disposals and 9 marks, and now leads the Coleman medal on 69 (Josh Kennedy is on 64 and plays tomorrow - pretty impressive considering he missed five games).
Updated
NRL H2 59:00 Melbourne Storm 54-0 South Sydney Rabbitohs
Things are getting even uglier for the Rabbitohs, with the Storm passing the half-century just after half-time.
The latest try (the ninth) of the night goes to Tim Glasby. Addo-Carr has 194 run metres and three line breaks to go with his two tries, while Smith has an incredible nine conversions and a try. Billy Slater has 157 run metres, 3 line breaks and a try.
Total domination by the minor premiers.
AFL
For those wondering, Nathan Buckley insists he doesn’t know whether he will coach Collingwood in 2018 and is holding onto hope his contract will be renewed. On Saturday, the Magpies finished their underwhelming season on a high - toppling Melbourne by 16 points to derail their finals aspirations. But Collingwood won’t be playing in September for the fourth-straight year, leaving Buckley’s tenure delicately poised.
The club legend said he didn’t have a feeling on their decision.
“I have a hope,” he said. “I’m really confident the right decisions will be made because I think the right information has been gathered. It’s far more in-depth than the external commentary would suggest. We’ll all be more aware of what the key decisions are in the near future.”
Buckley held all Collingwood’s players and football staff in an unusual closed door meeting after singing the song at the MCG. He said it was to “recognise the effort and the result” against the Demons but also foreshadow imminent changes as a result of the club’s review.
“Good people will come and go. The challenge of an organisation is to continue to build and develop the individuals in it,” he said. “There’s going to be change. It’s inevitable. The majority of the people that are in that room will still be there and will have a role to play.”
Buckley appeared to signal assistant coach Scott Burns’ exit, referencing his name as he discussed the shake-up.
Collingwood won four of their last seven games and drew with first-placed Adelaide.
“We played some good footy (this year),” Buckley said.
“In the end the accumulation of the season is ‘were you able to best your opponent on the day often enough?’ and we didn’t do that often enough to qualify for finals so our season ends. We played more consistently than we did last season. We’ve seen further growth and development in players of the right profile to take the club forward. It’s bittersweet on a night like tonight. The music has stopped for this year.”
- AAP
Women’s Rugby World Cup 2017
Loving this article on the rise of women’s rugby union in England - where the World Cup final between England’s Red Roses and New Zealand will be televised on Saturday night (English time). It is the first time the final, being played in Belfast’s Kingspan stadium, has won a primetime slot on Britain’s most popular commercial channel. About 1.1 million viewers tuned in for England’s 20-3 semi-final win over France on Tuesday night, and many more are expected to watch Saturday’s final. Across the channel, France 2 drew a record audience for a women’s rugby match, with 3.4 million watching that game.
According to the Rugby Football Union (RFU), there are about 27,600 female rugby players in England, with more than 550 women’s and girls’ teams in 300 clubs.
NRL
Just scouting out the latest sporting news coming through Wires in the lead-up to the Cats v Giants clash.
Ana Tagataese, the wife of Cronulla prop Sam Tagataese, and former Samoa and New Zealand international Nigel Vagana have blasted an Australian rugby league show for a segment that pokes fun of Pacific Islander names. Ana Tagataese described the segment on Fox Sports’ The Matty Johns Show as disrespectful and casually racist. The ‘Kids in Cars’ segment featured children attempting to pronounce the Pacific Islander surnames and then parents laughing when they struggled to do so.
“Although I believe no malice was intended during the Kids in Cars segment on your show, I do believe that having parents laugh with their children because they are unable to pronounce Pacific Islander surnames is completely disrespectful,” Tagataese wrote on a Facebook post. “Casual racism is not ok and I do not want my daughter, who goes to school, to have to tolerate it.”
Vagana said the segment was insensitive.
“It’s actually pretty disappointing that the script was screened; that someone came up with an idea that went through the processes and actually made it all the way to air without any thought that it might have been offensive to Pacific communities, people, players and their families,” he told New Zealand website Stuff.
“The names are tied in with a lot more than just the individual on the field. It’s the whole family. Stuff like that is not right and at some stage people have to be held accountable with the Rugby League World Cup coming up at the end of the year.”
Vagana, who played 240 NRL games and represented Samoa twice and New Zealand 37 times, said he was disappointed that Australian networks still seemingly had so much trouble pronouncing Pacific Islander names in commentary.
“It’s not like it’s the first time names and the struggle to say them correctly has come about, but it just doesn’t seem to be getting through to the right people that there are solutions out there if you really want them,” he said.
- AAP
AFL three-quarter-time Sydney Swans 13.10 (88) v Carlton 8.4 (52)
Sydney are well on their way to what would be an unbelievable rise to the top four (after starting the season 0-6 and being the only team to have made finals with such a poor opening record), with six goals between them and the Blues. The man who has won three Coleman medals (in 2014, for the Swans) and 2011 and 2008 (for the Hawks) looks hungry for another, with Lance Franklin on six goals at half-time. Zak Jones, meanwhile, has 20 possessions, but has limped off with an injury of some kind (more on that later). Kade Simpson (24 disposals, 10 contested possessions and 5 rebound 50s) is a shining light in a losing team.
NRL half-time Melbourne Storm 36-0 South Sydney Rabbitohs
The Storm are dominating the Rabbitohs at AAMI Park, with the scoreline an incredible 36-0 at half-time. Sui Vunivalu was over for the home side within 2 minutes, with the Storm continuing on their merry way since then. Vunivalu added a second in the 28th minute and a third in the 39th thanks to a penalty try. He’s joined by teammates Munster (5th minute), Addo-Carr (33rd) and captain Smith (38th minute). Smith also has 5 from 5 conversions. Vunivalu has a massive 100 run metres for the game so far, second only to Billy Slater (103). Slater meanwhile has 3 line-breaks, as does Addo-Carr. For the visitors, Angus Crichton leads the resistance with 25 tackles.
Here’s the penalty try vision.
Vision of the @storm Try decision in the 39th minute of #NRLStormSouths.#NRL pic.twitter.com/RVxwnrVIei
— NRL Bunker (@NRLBunker) August 26, 2017
AFL finals
What does the Collingwood defeat of Melbourne mean? If you barrack for West Coast (or the Dees), I’m sure you’re wondering. The Demons could miss out on finals if Essendon defeat Fremantle (likely) and the Eagles defeat Adelaide by 20-25 points (unlikely, in my opinion). The Dees can still finish 7th if both teams lose.
The Sydney v Carlton game - in the third quarter currently - will also have a bearing on finals. The Swans are currently up by 19 points. If Sydney win they can finish as high as fourth if Port Adelaide lose, or don’t win by much. Even if the Swans lose, they’ll finish above the Demons given their superior percentage (in which case they’ll finish fifth or sixth).
Netball Quad Series
In case you missed the news earlier, the Diamonds surged to a 54-50 win over England in the Netball Quad series opener in Brisbane today, with captain Caitlin Bassett starring. Bassett shot 43 goals at 93% for the Australians to cap off a stellar year for her which has included her team Sunshine Coast Lightning’s Super Netball championship in their debut season this year. Bassett did not captain the Lightning - that mantle was held by defender Geva Mentor, who today lined up for the English on Bassett.
England had backed themselves to pull off their first win over the Diamonds on Australian soil in 36 years after picking a squad filled with eight Super Netball stars. And they looked full of intent from the outset, jumping to an early 6-4 lead before Australia regrouped to grab a 15-10 buffer at the first break. Bassett didn’t miss her first shot at goal until midway through the second term as Australia put their foot down to blow the halftime deficit out to 32-22. England hit back to outscore the hosts 15-11 and cut the deficit to 43-37 at the final interval, but it wasn’t enough to overturn the Bassett-inspired Diamonds.
Updated
Rugby Union All Blacks 0-12 Wallabies
Don’t forget that Paul Connolly is currently live-blogging all your Bledisloe Cup/Rugby Championship Test action. You can follow him here. The Wallabies are off to a shock lead of 12-0 after a try to Hooper and resultant conversion from Foley.
Currently the All Blacks lead the series 1-0.
Updated
Hi everyone and welcome to the evening shift of Sportwatch, I’m Kate O’Halloran and I’m here primarily to run you through tonight’s AFL blockbuster between Geelong and Greater Western Sydney. The clash has a critical bearing on the final four. If the Cats win, they will likely secure second spot in a qualifying final against this week’s opponents, the Giants. If the Giants win, on the other hand, they are guaranteed top-two, and may even be minor premiers (if the Crows lose). If the Crows win, they still manage a home qualifying final against the Cats. If the Giants lose, however, they may finish as low as fourth (depending on how much the Tigers can beat St Kilda by).
I know it’s a lot to get your head around. I’ll be back shortly with some other sporting updates in the lead-up to tonight’s game (7:25pm AEST).
Thanks for your company this afternoon, Kate O’Halloran is now here to steer you through the rest of a huge night of sport.
New Zealand 0-5 Australia
Wallop! Israel Folau scores an intercept try after 30 seconds!
Updated
Netball - QT - New Zealand 18-16 South Africa
South Africa haven’t allowed New Zealand to boss things in the first quarter of the second Quad Series match in Brisbane.
NRL - 09:20 - Storm 12-0 Rabbitohs
We’re barely underway at AAMI Park and already the relentless minor premiers are coasting.
AFL - HT Sydney 6.7 (43) v Carlton 5.1 (31)
Sydney’s supposed percentage booster against Carlton isn’t exactly going according to plan. After racing to an early lead the Blues have pegged the Swans back. Injuries to Sinclair and Tippett haven’t helped either.
Sydney are in a percentage shootout with Port Adelaide, who play Gold Coast later this evening. A big win for the Power could see them leapfrog the Swans into fifth on the final ladder.
If you’re unable to resist the sporting clickbait that is Mayweather vs McGregor, there’s been some more stuff to gawp at.
There’s a delay to the kick-off in Dunedin because the floodlights weren’t fully on at the start of the warm-ups. Really odd scenes with the All Blacks in their rooms all psyched up and ready to go while the Wallabies are going through set piece drills on the field.
Watching the Bledisloe on enemy territory. This sad square of gold is all that remains of the Wallabies fans. BYO paper bag with eyeholes. pic.twitter.com/9MTsuPKfvL
— Richard Cooke (@rgcooke) August 26, 2017
Updated
The race for the Coleman Medal is hotting up at the SCG with Lance Franklin in the mood for Sydney against Carlton. He has three midway through the second quarter to edge closer to Josh Kennedy who faces Adelaide tomorrow.
Coleman Medal Leaderboard
- 64 - Josh Kennedy (plays tomorrow)
- 63 - Ben Brown (season over)
- 62 - Lance Franklin (in play)
- 60 - Joe Daniher (plays tomorrow)
While we’re catching our breath, take a look through Adam Collins’ preview of Australia’s Test series in Bangladesh which gets underway tomorrow afternoon.
QT: @sydneyswans 3.4 (22) leads @CarltonFC 1.0 (6).
— AFL (@AFL) August 26, 2017
The Swans missed some early chances. #AFLSwansBlues pic.twitter.com/QXkwVWMktH
If rugby is your thing, head on over to Paul Connolly’s dedicated liveblog of Bledisloe II from Dunedin.
@JPHowcroft has the Shute Shield grand final already been mentioned in #sportwatch?
— Dave Earley (@earleyedition) August 26, 2017
It has now - and the Warringah Rats have been crowned the kings of NSW rugby at a packed North Sydney Oval.
Real Rugby @ShuteShield well done take note @qantaswallabies @NSWRugby this is what the game is about pic.twitter.com/N4eLnwTCLh
— Wayne H Diemar (@diemar_wh) August 26, 2017
24k at Shute shield final pic.twitter.com/rNTfHDe3uc
— MPH (@mph770) August 26, 2017
Updated
AFL - North Melbourne beat Brisbane by 51 points
Brisbane 11.13 (79) v North Melbourne 19.16 (130)
Ben Brown kicked seven goals as North Melbourne avoided the wooden spoon with victory over Brisbane at the Gabba.
NRL - Bulldogs beat Titans by 12 points
The Bulldogs claimed the four points in their dead rubber with the Titans despite a second half fightback from Gold Coast.
Netball - Australia 54-50 England
Australia’s Diamonds have opened their Quad Series campaign with a win over England. The home side worked their way into a 10 goal lead at halftime but the visitors claimed the final two quarters to create a nervy finish in Brisbane. New captain Caitlin Bassett landed 43 of 46 shots to lead her country to victory.
Netball - Q4 - Australia 48-42 England
NRL - 66:21 - Titans 10-20 Bulldogs
Over in Brisbane, North Melbourne have taken control of the match to determine who finishes bottom of the ladder. Ben Brown has six goals to his name to take him beyond 60 for the season and still in with a sniff of the Coleman Medal.
AFL - Q4 - 15:00 remaining. Brisbane 9.10 (64) v North Melbourne 15.12 (102)
A roller coaster year with a happy conclusion. Feels damn good #sidebyside pic.twitter.com/XfmMgNZVL8
— Collingwood FC (@CollingwoodFC) August 26, 2017
The full time stats #AFLPiesDees pic.twitter.com/CHy7svVdrE
— Melbourne FC (@melbournefc) August 26, 2017
What a shocker for Melbourne. Finals destiny is no longer in their hands after failing to claw back a huge first-quarter deficit.
Collingwood deserve enormous credit for their commitment to the final match of another disappointing season for them. Time and again Melbourne flew at them but they remained resolute defensively and in Jamie Elliott in terrific form further forward there was always a potent attacking threat.
It’s a match that leaves more questions than answers. Does an effort like that give Nathan Buckley a stay of execution? Will Melbourne cling on to a finals spot? How much more drama can this unpredictable season throw at us?
Collingwood beat Melbourne by 16 points
Collingwood 14.15 (99) v Melbourne 12.11 (83)
AFL Q4 01:18 remaining. Collingwood 14.15 (99) v Melbourne 12.10 (82)
More tremendous Collingwood defending frustrates Melbourne and Sidebottom’s work further afield settles the tempo again and allows the Pies to milk the clock with time running out for the Demons.
AFL Q4 03:18 remaining. Collingwood 14.15 (99) v Melbourne 12.10 (82)
Collingwood have stationed an extra man behind the ball and it’s worked with Langdon, Howe and Moore completing a series of intercept marks to stymie any Melbourne momentum.
AFL Q4 05:26 remaining. Collingwood 14.15 (99) v Melbourne 12.10 (82)
Goal to Collingwood! Melbourne’s hearts break again as Hoskin-Elliott kicks the Pies clear again. A neat passage of play slowed the tempo before a long centring ball should have been marked by the former Giant but he retains his composure and snaps through.
AFL Q4 07:44 remaining. Collingwood 13.14 (92) v Melbourne 12.10 (82)
The crowd is into this now, there’s that fevered sound echoing around the MCG. And the players are feeding off it. It’s chaos out there with Melbourne throwing everything at Collingwood and the Pies somehow resisting.
Collingwood should score twice but Mason Cox butchers a set shot 30m out shortly after sending a handball to Goldsack who fumbles it over the line instead of gathering and kicking into the open goal.
AFL Q4 09:56 remaining. Collingwood 13.12 (90) v Melbourne 12.10 (82)
Another for Melbourne! Pedersen this time!
AFL Q4 11:56 remaining. Collingwood 13.11 (89) v Melbourne 11.10 (76)
Hannan kicks Melbourne straight back after a desperate passage of play. Collingwood’s commitment is admirable, forcing the Demons to play at breakneck speed and eventually they slip a chain of handballs into space and Hannan’s left boot.
And Melksham slots another! Hannan turns provider this time, working off Petracca’s clearance to find Melksham on the lead and work the ball through from 45m. Game on!
AFL Q4 13:56 remaining. Collingwood 13.11 (89) v Melbourne 9.10 (64)
The all important first goal of the final quarter goes to Collingwood. A hopeful punt to the top of the square sees a pack fly and the ball come to ground in the safe hands of Mason Cox. He makes no mistake to extend the margin to 25.
AFL Q4 14:57 remaining. Collingwood 12.11 (83) v Melbourne 9.11 (65)
No goals yet this quarter. Melbourne are still being brave in possession, bordering on the reckless, but such is Collingwood’s pressure they need every trick in the book to fashion space.
AFL Q4 17:26 remaining. Collingwood 12.11 (83) v Melbourne 9.10 (64)
Melbourne have again flown out of the blocks following an interval but this time Collingwood’s tackling and defensive organisation prevents an early goal. Petracca looks to be head to head with Treloar in an intriguing midfield battle.
A quick whip around the grounds...
AFL - Q3 - 15:00 remaining. Brisbane 5.5 (35) v North Melbourne 8.10 (58)
NRL - HT - Titans 0-20 Bulldogs
Netball - QT - Australia 15-10 England
Collingwood lead by 18 points at three-quarter time
AFL 3QT Collingwood 12.10 (82) v Melbourne 9.10 (64)
It’s been a rollercoaster ride for Melbourne but somehow they’re still in this contest despite slipping as far as 41 points behind in that quarter. They’ve kicked the last four goals to keep the game alive and in Christian Petracca they have the game’s most influential force. Huge final term coming up.
AFL Q3 01:56 remaining. Collingwood 12.10 (82) v Melbourne 9.10 (64)
Melbourne are throwing everything at this comeback, taking the game on at all costs, looking for the decisive disposal when safe ones are on offer, and it pays dividends with Petracca’s boot nailing the fourth goal in a row. Pedersen, who’s back on again after his injury scare was vital in the build up.
AFL Q3 05:09 remaining. Collingwood 12.9 (81) v Melbourne 8.10 (58)
Another for Melbourne - three in a row! Melksham this time with a solid boot from 50m on the run to bring the Dees within four goals of a match they’ve been chasing since the opening bounce.
Play has slowed a little with the midfield congested but when the Demons break away they’re starting to make it count. Can they maintain the momentum?
AFL Q3 08:21 remaining. Collingwood 12.9 (81) v Melbourne 7.9 (51)
Two in quick succession for Melbourne and the comeback could be on again. Petracca was the architect, clearing the press with a piercing kick allowing Neal-Bullen to gallop into an open goal. The Dees taking risks in possession and they’re starting to come off.
AFL Q3 09:37 remaining. Collingwood 12.9 (81) v Melbourne 6.9 (45)
The clock is ticking for Melbourne but the added pressure is only highlighting their flawed skills and decision making.
Eventually Melksham snaps a goal to give them hope but it came at a cost with Pedersen helped from the field after being crunched in a marking contest as he went back with the flight.
AFL Q3 13:21 remaining. Collingwood 12.7 (79) v Melbourne 5.8 (38)
This is a nightmare for Melbourne and it’s showing no signs of ending any time soon. Another goal to Collingwood - Hoskin-Elliott this time - sends the lead to 41 points. The Dees without Jesse Hogan remember, nursing his hamstring on the pine.
As things stand Melbourne’s percentage advantage over West Coast has all-but evaporated meaning the Eagles can nip into the finals with a win over Adelaide tomorrow. What a start to the day!
AFL Q3 16:02 remaining. Collingwood 11.6 (72) v Melbourne 5.8 (38)
Collingwood hit back straight away with the aid of the score review. Philips was awarded the goal after his excellent arcing set shot from the boundary looked to be touched on the line but replays showed it wasn’t deflected until it was behind the posts.
With Melbourne still gathering their thoughts Mason Cox plucks one out of the sky in makable range and kicks Collingwood into a game-high lead.
AFL Q3 18:37 remaining. Collingwood 9.6 (60) v Melbourne 5.8 (38)
Melbourne again out of the blocks quickly as they try desperately to get back into the contest. Neal-Bullen with the first of the half, a lovely long set shot after excellent work from Hunt.
Updated
Jeremy Howe - 30 Mark of Round noms since 2011, 11 more than any other player
— Swamp (@sirswampthing) August 26, 2017
13 round wins, 7 more than anyone#AFLPiesDees @CollingwoodFC
Bad news for Melbourne.
Jesse Hogan has come off with a hamstring injury & won't return to the ground today. We'll bring you more details when we can.#AFLPiesDees
— Melbourne FC (@melbournefc) August 26, 2017
Jamie Elliott is on 🔥🔥🔥 #AFLPiesDees pic.twitter.com/gdPJTPh8Zj
— AFL (@AFL) August 26, 2017
AFL Q2 11:00 remaining. Brisbane 5.2 (32) v North Melbourne 3.8 (26)
An even contest early on in the battle to avoid the wooden spoon at a sunny Gabba. Tom Rockliff has a couple of goals and Dayne Zorko is turning in another powerful display.
Collingwood lead by 28 points at half-time
AFL HT - Collingwood 9.6 (60) v Melbourne 4.8 (32)
After a disastrous opening term Melbourne looked to have restored order midway through the second quarter but a couple of fluffed opportunities in front of goal let Collingwood off the hook and they made the Demons pay with a flurry of late goals.
Huge half coming up for Simon Goodwin, not only to try to rescue the four points but also avoid a catastrophic percentage reverse that could see them miss out on a finals place by the narrowest of margins.
AFL Q2 00:23 remaining. Collingwood 9.6 (60) v Melbourne 4.8 (32)
Take a bow Jamie Elliott! What a game he’s having. His third of three beauties is a right-footed snap while he’s heading towards the right forward pocket, wrapping his boot hard around his body to engineer force into the ball from a narrow angle. The Pies have checked the Demons and now they’re raising them again.
Updated
AFL Q2 02:11 remaining. Collingwood 8.6 (54) v Melbourne 4.8 (32)
Collingwood have wrestled the game back into an even contest and their tackling pressure has once again forced Melbourne’s precision to go awry. Nathan Jones drops a chest mark on the 50m arc and from the resulting defensive clearance Tyson Goldsack almost scores a spectacular solo goal.
Hogan’s back on the bench, but he’s not looking ready to rejoin play any time soon.
AFL Q2 04:30 remaining. Collingwood 8.5 (53) v Melbourne 4.8 (32)
Another one for the Pies against the run of play. Taylor Adams bursting through a contest near Melbourne’s goal square to increase Simon Goodwin’s frustration.
Collingwood's first quarters haven't been a very good indicator for match outcome this year. #AFLPiesDees pic.twitter.com/rcM66sjjIn
— InsightLane (@insightlane) August 26, 2017
AFL Q2 06:40 remaining. Collingwood 7.5 (47) v Melbourne 4.7 (31)
Garlett restores the margin to 16 after more nice ball movement from Melbourne but he’s in a forward line temporarily without Hogan who’s down in the rooms.
AFL Q2 07:00 remaining. Collingwood 7.5 (47) v Melbourne 3.7 (25)
Quality from Jamie Elliott. It’s taken 12 minutes for Collingwood to fashion an opportunity this quarter but Elliott makes it count. Terrific overhead in the pocket he runs around and snaps across his body to make Melbourne pay for their wastefulness.
AFL Q2 08:44 remaining. Collingwood 6.5 (41) v Melbourne 3.7 (25)
After floating on top of the MCG in the opening quarter Collingwood are now wading through treacle, unable to gain any forward momentum. The blistering ball movement has been replaced by jittery safety-first options that serve only to invite more Melbourne pressure.
From one of those repeat salvos Petracca finds Gawn isolated 30m from goal straight in front but he kicks abysmally and the Dees rue another opportunity to get back into this match.
AFL Q2 11:50 remaining. Collingwood 6.5 (41) v Melbourne 3.6 (24)
The questions are now all Collingwood’s to answer. After such a hot start are they able to resist Melbourne’s counterpunch?
Melbourne’s runners are starting to find space and they’re picking off uncontested marks all over the place. Garlett is one of those starting to grow into the game but he sprays a golden opportunity wide before Neal-Bullen fails to make the distance from the left forward pocket.
Updated
AFL Q2 16:14 remaining. Collingwood 6.5 (41) v Melbourne 3.3 (21)
Collingwood’s intensity around the ball is forcing Melbourne to second guess every disposal. Time after time the Dees look to be on their way only for a black and white guernsey to steam into view.
Eventually the Demons do break clear, Jesse Hogan setting up Jack Watts to roost one from 50m, and he kicks truly to drag his side within 20-points.
AFL Q2 19:36 remaining. Collingwood 6.5 (41) v Melbourne 2.3 (15)
Melbourne begin the long slog back into this contest with a goal straight after the restart - Garlett with his first after some neat work from his midfield picking their way through Collingwood’s defence after winning the opening clearance.
The stats at quarter time ⬇️#AFLPiesDees pic.twitter.com/VDe9y0ZAhh
— Melbourne FC (@melbournefc) August 26, 2017
Howe does he do it!! 😱🙌 #AFLPiesDees pic.twitter.com/QYjViszcVj
— AFL (@AFL) August 26, 2017
Collingwood lead by 32 points at quarter time
QT - Collingwood 6.5 (41) v Melbourne 1.3 (9)
Blimey, that got very very ugly very quickly for Melbourne. Neither side looked switched on early but once Collingwood seized the ascendancy they never looked like relinquishing it. Three enormous quarters for both coaches coming up.
AFL Q1 01:56 remaining. Collingwood 6.5 (41) v Melbourne 1.3 (9)
Melbourne can’t get any forward momentum. Another stilted crawl out of defence is sharked and returned with interest. An open corridor is traversed with handballs until Broomhead dribbles through another. It’s like watching two matches simultaneously, one played at breakneck speed, the other in slow motion. Simon Goodwin has a lot of work to do at quarter time.
AFL Q1 05:22 remaining. Collingwood 5.5 (35) v Melbourne 1.3 (9)
It’s still a horror show out there for Melbourne. Ineffective going forward, unable to handle Collingwood’s power in midfield and the balance of talls and smalls inside 50 is wreaking havoc. Sidebottom is the latest to profit, crumbing smartly to belt home his side’s fifth of the quarter.
Peter Warrington might have a case here:
“That’s goal of the year for mine. A Pie contested ball gets it into their 50, and Jones is harassed into a dump kick. Howe takes mark of the year, or thereabouts, takes on the man on the mark and handballs to a runner at advantage, who hits it long where Elliott goes 4th up and takes an almost as good mark... aka why footy is great! even though it’s not the 80s.”
AFL Q1 07:37 remaining. Collingwood 4.3 (27) v Melbourne 1.2 (8)
Collingwood respond immediately courtesy of two thrilling marks, first from Jeremy Howe and then Jamie Elliott, the latter taking his just outside the goal square before nailing the set shot. Both grabs were spectacular, Howe’s in particular will be replayed often courtesy of the ride he took on Petracca’s shoulders.
AFL Q1 09:22 remaining. Collingwood 3.3 (21) v Melbourne 1.2 (8)
Right on cue Melbourne carve their way through the corridor. Harmes to begin with, showing his speed and then Petracca with the sure finish. A much needed steadier.
AFL Q1 10:00 remaining. Collingwood 3.3 (21) v Melbourne 0.2 (2)
Things going from bad to worse for the Demons. Jetta’s having to take risks to clear the ball out of defence but he’s playing a low-percentage game, missing targets and Collingwood are just pinning Melbourne in their own territory. The Pies nick a couple of behinds when more was on offer but the Dees are a long way off the pace and show no signs of making them pay for their profligacy.
AFL Q1 12:15 remaining. Collingwood 3.0 (18) v Melbourne 0.2 (2)
Collingwood have stacked their forward line with Grundy and Goldsack occupying Melbourne’s tall defenders. In midfield they’re hunting in packs not allowing Melbourne any room to breathe.
And Grundy kicks the third of the match! Taking a strong pack mark and kicking truly from 40m. Melbourne in a spot of bother here.
AFL Q1 14:55 remaining. Collingwood 2.0 (12) v Melbourne 0.1 (1)
It’s a scrappy spectacle out there at the moment with both sides intent on coughing up turnovers. Again Melbourne should score but their delivery inside 50 is poor, and again Collingwood rebound and hit the scoreboard, Josh Daicos striking his maiden career goal.
AFL Q1 17:21 remaining. Collingwood 1.0 (6) v Melbourne 0.1 (1)
And the Pies make Melbourne pay, going coast to coast to allow Tom Philips to slot home the first major of the day.
AFL Q1 18:01 remaining. Collingwood 0.0 (0) v Melbourne 0.1 (1)
Collingwood took the ball away from the first bounce to establish an opening minute of territorial advantage. Neither side seems particularly adept with ball in hand though with plenty of targets missed in a scrappy opening phase. Melbourne should open the scoring with six points but a Garlett snap can only bag a point.
Here we go then at the MCG. Can Melbourne secure their spot in the finals? Will Nathan Buckley deliver a career-saving coaching performance?
It’s a cool dry day in Melbourne with a whisper of a breeze but nothing to bother the players.
One final word. Let's do this, Melbourne.#RaiseHell pic.twitter.com/4bsojcgeE9
— Melbourne FC (@melbournefc) August 26, 2017
It's time to swoop #sidebyside pic.twitter.com/RXuwmthp4f
— Collingwood FC (@CollingwoodFC) August 26, 2017
One of the storylines to emerge from today will be the fate of Collingwood coach Nathan Buckley. The Magpies board was recently presented with the findings of an internal review but the future of the beleagured coach remains unclear. Today may be Buckley’s 132nd and final match in charge of the club he represented 260 times as a player.
Back to the task in hand and the first bounce at the MCG is not far away. There are no late changes to either side which means recalls for Jack Watts and Christian Salem for a strong looking Melbourne 22 while Tyson Goldsack and Brodie Grundy return to the Collingwood line-up which features debutant Kayle Kirby.
A special moment at the @MCG, as Blairy hands debutant Kayle Kirby his jumper ahead of game No. 1 #sidebyside pic.twitter.com/qLw5WsE2lB
— Collingwood FC (@CollingwoodFC) August 26, 2017
We've lost a friend and a very special sports caller. Drew Morphett ...onya mate, ever a cheeky smile, laughter and another glass of red.
— jim maxwell (@jimmaxcricket) August 26, 2017
Drew Morphett's great virtue was never taking anything too seriously, and sport can always do with a bit more of that. A lovely bloke.
— Russell Jackson (@rustyjacko) August 26, 2017
How great it must be for just the sound of your voice to take so many people back to their happy youth.
— Luke Holmesby (@LukeHolmesby) August 26, 2017
Rest in peace Drew Morphett.
If you want to send in your favourite sporting memories featuring Drew I’ll share them during the day. You can send them - and any other comments you care to make about a busy day of sport - on email or via Twitter @JPHowcroft. The comments section at the foot of the page will also be open, so feel free to get involved.
Before we go any further I’d like to take a moment to celebrate the life of Drew Morphett who has died aged 69. One of the most accomplished all-round sports broadcasters Drew’s voice is the soundtrack to some of the iconic moments in Australian sport. A man of wit and charm Drew’s passion for the sport he was covering shone through at all times. He will be missed.
Saturday - it's a Saturday-ay
Good afternoon and welcome to another jam packed edition of Sportwatch.
Today’s marathon is dominated by the final round of home and away matches in the AFL and there’s plenty at stake with the top eight, top four and minor premiership all undecided as the most even and unpredictable season in recent history nears its conclusion.
The first feature match of the day fits into this storyline nicely with seventh-placed Melbourne taking on Collingwood at the MCG at 1.45pm. The Dees are bidding to make their first finals in 11 years and a win or a draw guarantees them seventh spot while a defeat would likely mean percentage will be required to establish the last two postseason qualifiers. Even that scenario should favour the Demons with only West Coast and Essendon likely to compete with them on that measure, and West Coast have the unenviable task of hosting Adelaide in their final game. Defeat last night to Hawthorn has ended the faint hopes the Western Bulldogs might have harboured.
The battle to avoid the wooden spoon (or should that be to secure the number one draft pick?) provides a nice subplot to the afternoon with Brisbane hosting North Melbourne from 2.10pm. Neither side should be disgraced by an 18th place finish in such an even year, with both competing regularly and in Brisbane’s case in particular exposing a promising crop of young players.
At 4.35pm Sydney will begin the process of defeating Carlton. The Swans can finish anywhere from fourth to sixth on the ladder, depending on what happens to Richmond and Port Adelaide. Tied on points and with a comparable percentage to the Power this match at the SCG becomes something of a shootout prior to Port’s clash with Gold Coast later tonight. Both are jockeying for pole position should the Tigers slip up against the Saints on Sunday.
The feature match this evening is pivotal in shaping the top four. Preseason favourites GWS travel to Simonds Stadium at 7.25pm knowing a win could see them end the season as minor premiers, but defeat could land them as low as fourth. The Cats can finish anywhere from second to fourth and will be coming up against former star Steve Johnson who will make his final career appearance at Simonds Stadium.
Port Adelaide’s likely thrashing of the Gary Ablett-less Gold Coast at 7.40pm will take second billing.
Today’s NRL action features two matches of little significance preluding a barnstormer. At 3pm the Bulldogs travel to the Titans in a contest featuring two sides that won’t trouble the Provan-Summons Trophy engraver. At 5.30pm Melbourne Storm welcome South Sydney to AAMI Park as the minor premiers begin their finals preparation against a Rabbitohs outfit unable to finish inside the top-eight.
The real action kicks off at 7.30pm when the fifth-placed Sharks host the third-placed Roosters. With only two rounds of the season remaining just one win separates second and fifth on the ladder. This pair met just eight weeks ago with Cronulla running out comfortable winners.
Photograph: Matt King/Getty Images
At 5.35pm the Wallabies will be looking to avenge last week’s humiliation at the hands of the All Blacks when they travel to Dunedin for the second instalment of this year’s Bledisloe Cup. Coverage of that will be on a dedicated liveblog.
It’s also a huge day in netball with the Quad Series opening with a double-header in Brisbane. At 3pm Australia and England face off, before New Zealand and South Africa take over from 5pm.
If that’s not enough to satisfy your appetite you can gorge on England’s Ashes preparations against the West Indies from 8pm and follow Bournemouth vs Manchester City in the Premier League from 9.30pm. Then of course there’s the build up to a mouthwatering day of sport tomorrow, including the Mayweather v McGregor pantomime, Australia’s tour of Bangladesh and the return of Formula 1 from its midseason siesta.
Saturday, it’s a Saturday, It’s a Saturday, it’s a Saturday, Saturday, it’s a Saturday, Saturday, it’s a Saturday...
One whole day to play
Come on everybody, wear your rollerskates today
It’s Saturday, Saturday
Saturday, it’s Saturday
Saturday, it’s Saturday
Saturday, it’s Saturday-ay
Jonathan will be here shortly. In the meantime, here’s Jonathan Horn on what’s at stake this weekend:
