Summary
That’s all from me today in an entertaining day of Australian sport. I started with the finals-defining clash between the Demons and Saints - which ended up being something of a disappointment given the dominance of Melbourne (before the Saints surged back to set up an exciting final term). Ultimately the Saints were far from their best, and the Demons deserved the win, which sees them sit at seventh spot after the conclusion of the round. The Dees have Brisbane and Collingwood to come - and one would think they will make the finals for the first time since 2006. The Saints, however, look destined to miss out, mired in 11th and one win and a big percentage gap between them and the Eagles in eighth.
The Wests v Manly clash at Leichhardt then provided an unexpected highlight - with the Tigers surging to a memorable win in the second half. The Sea Eagles had led by 20-6 at half-time, and were still leading with 2 minutes remaining at 26-24 - with the ball in hand. After a crucial mistake from Manly rookie Brad Parker, however, the Tigers were handed back the ball and stole the win with a try to Watene-Zelezniak. The scenes at Leichhardt Oval were something to behold - and the Tigers are now a win clear of a rejuvenated Newcastle (despite the Knights winning three in a row). For the Sea Eagles, it was a telling loss - as they had a good chance to finish in the top four, but instead are left hanging onto a spot in the top eight. The Sea Eagles will find some relief in the fact that they face a poor Canterbury outfit next week, while the Tigers will take on the Roosters who fell in a thriller to the Storm on Saturday night.
Other results for the day went as expected - with the Raiders easily accounting for the Warriors in the NRL, while the Hawks comfortably beat the Kangaroos, and the Power saw off a fast-finishing Magpies outfit.
Thanks to those who joined me, in comments below, on Twitter, or who simply read along and enjoyed some of the minute-by-minute commentary. I hope you’ll join me next week for another edition of Sportwatch.
Port Adelaide 14.14 (98) beat Collingwood 10.12 (72)
The Power hold off another stirring Collingwood effort - who came within a few goals with enough time to steal it. Nonetheless, the Power held on through the class of the likes of Robbie Gray and Travis Boak - with the captain kicking the sealer. Dougal Howard capped off the game with his first goal of the year - and all his teammates get around him in a nice moment. Wingard had 32 disposals for the home side, including 10 contested possessions, 6 clearances and 8 inside 50s. Boak, Sam Gray and Robbie Gray all finished with two goals each. For the Pies, Taylor Adams finished with 31 disposals including 14 contested possessions, 8 clearances, 9 tackles and 6 marks. Ben Reid also completed a successful move forward with 4 big goals.
Important win for the Power, who now sit at sixth behind the Swans - and put some space between themselves and the ‘bottom 8’ contenders in the Demons, Eagles and Bulldogs who are all locked on 40 points. The Power will face the Bulldogs next week in a must-win match for the Dogs, while a win would help the Power in their search for a top four spot. For the Pies, it’s their first loss in an impressive month of football.
AFL Q4 02:25 remaining Port Adelaide 13.13 (91) v Collingwood 10.11 (71)
The sealer goes to Travis Boak with a great finish from a nice Polec assist - and the Power hold off a surging Collingwood. The Pies won’t win but they were brave in their challenge.
AFL Q4 03:45 remaining Port Adelaide 12.13 (85) v Collingwood 10.11 (71)
Moore hits up Callum Brown - in just his third game. He’s 50m out straight in front - huge kick. He’s only kicked one goal for his career - and it just falls short for a rushed behind. Magpies can’t convert their many chances.
AFL Q4 05:12 remaining Port Adelaide 12.13 (85) v Collingwood 10.9 (69)
Are the Pies a sneaky chance? There’s under 3 goals in it with less than 6 minutes remaining after that goal to Jarryd Blair. They get the clearance, and Treloar boots them inside 50 - the ball almost rolls through but at the last moment deviates for a point. There’s 16 in it.
AFL Q4 10:20 remaining Port Adelaide 12.13 (85) v Collingwood 9.8 (62)
Here’s the Robbie Gray vision - unbelievable.
Stop it Robbie #AFLPowerPies pic.twitter.com/X3ZS80QoOc
— Ricky Mangidis (@rickm18) August 13, 2017
AFL Q4 12:23 remaining Port Adelaide 12.13 (85) v Collingwood 9.8 (62)
A masterclass from Robbie Gray - who juggled a fast ball from Hartlett behind his back to throw it on his boot and find Sam Gray in space in the 50. He gets a steadier for the Power. You have to see a replay of the Robbie Gray magic.
AFL Q4 15:24 remaining Port Adelaide 11.12 (78) v Collingwood 9.8 (62)
Great intercept mark by Jeremy Howe in the middle - who finds Reid in the forward 50. Some desperate defence down the other end by Dunn and Goldsack saved a certain goal to Sam Gray - and it looks to have inspired Collingwood. Ben Reid kicks his fourth for the day to keep the Pies in it.
AFL Q4 18:15 remaining Port Adelaide 11.11 (77) v Collingwood 8.8 (56)
Big end to that quarter with 4 consecutive goals from the Pies, before the Power kicked back with a couple. Surely the Power win from here with so much on the line.
Nice mark to Dixon inside 50, on the boundary line - who centres the ball to Impey 40m out, on a slight angle. Given too much space by the Pies’ defenders. He kicks it to give the Power some breathing space.
AFL Q3 13:15 remaining Port Adelaide 8.10 (58) v Collingwood 4.6 (30)
Just a quick update from Adelaide Oval - and the Power look to have control of this game with an almost five goal lead over the Pies. Port have all single goal-kickers in a team effort, with all of Boak, Sam Gray, Houston, Robbie Gray, Wines, Ryder, Neade and Ah Chee with goals. Possession-wise, Ebert (19), Harlett (17) and and Pittard (15) lead the way. Hartett has been impressive with 5 contested possessions and 9 marks. For the Pies, Crisp (19), Adams (17), Scharenberg (16) and Sidebottom are dominating possession. They too have single goal-kickers - Elliott, Phillips, Reid and Moore all scoring.
I’ll take a food break and be back with the final quarter of this game.
Hawthorn 18.7 (115) beat North Melbourne 14.5 (89)
Hawthorn have cruised to victory over the Kangaroos in Launceston - in a fitting send off for former captain Luke Hodge at their home-away-from-home. Hodge starred with 29 possessions, including 5 contested possessions, 3 clearances, 4 rebound 50s and 4 tackles. Tom Mitchell racked up yet another 35 possessions, with a huge 15 contested possessions, 6 clearances and 5 tackles. Luke Bruest kicked four goals for his side, while Jarryd Roughead had 3, and all of Henderson, Smith and Burgoyne managed 2. For the Roos, Ben Brown kicked 3, while Zurhaar, Preuss and Garner all had 2. Shaun Higgins was best for the Kangaroos with 31 possessions and 5 clearances, but it wasn’t enough to see his side home, who missed their captain Ziebell.
Wests Tigers beat Manly Sea Eagles 30-26
What a win for the Tigers! Manly led 20-6 at half-time, but the Tigers win it in the final two minutes. Fantastic scenes at Leichhardt Oval - no doubt there’ll be plenty of debate about the final call on possible obstruction by Chee-Kam - but I reckon the right call was made. The Sea Eagles will be shattered to lose that one - especially with a top four spot on the line. Fantastic, however, to see the Tigers take the win and possibly avoid the wooden spoon with a thrilling win at home.
The Tigers had all single tries - with Taylor, Naiqama, Lolohea, Sue and Zelezniak going over. David Nofoaluma starred for the Tigers with 239 run metres run, as well as a line break, while Tedesco had 185 metres. Elijah Taylor managed 47 tackles for Wests to go with his early try, while Eisenhuth had 38. For Manly, Cherry-Evans and Uate had two tries each - and Uate looked dangerous all match with 130 metres run and 2 line breaks, while Koroisau had 1 line break and 40 tackles. Jake Trbojevic had 43 tackles, and his brother Tom had 141 metres run.
Unlucky loss for Manly who looked assured of a win at half-time, but couldn’t halt the momentum of the Leichhardt crowd and Tigers’ team. Beauty of a game.
NRL H2 79:43 Wests Tigers 30-26 Manly Sea Eagles
A big mistake from the Sea Eagles - Brad Parker puts the ball down after a strong tackle from Sue - right in front of the sticks. Nofoaluma almost takes it over from the scrum but is halted just on the line.
They’re through! The Tigers have taken the lead with a minute and a half remaining. The ref calls try - and it goes to the bunker. They’re checking obstruction on Chee-Kam (who went to the inside shoulder of Cherry-Evans). Tough call - looks like Cherry-Evans continues the hold which should mean the try is allowed. Tedesco’s pass to Naiqama was a brilliant one - who then found Watene-Zelezniak. Lolohea converts.
Tigers will win! The hill goes mad!
NRL H2 75:26 Wests Tigers 24-26 Manly Sea Eagles
Offload from Marsters to Tedesco who makes plenty of ground - before the Tigers take an early kick - but the Sea Eagles intercept just outside their own try-line. Cherry-Evans then manages an impressive kick under pressure to set the Tigers back. This time the Tigers almost make it 30 metres and over on the last tackle - but it’s a brilliant try-saving tackle from Wright on Nofoaluma - one-on-one. I can’t fathom bringing that man down one-on-one.
Updated
NRL H2 72:00 Wests Tigers 24-26 Manly Sea Eagles
Tigers are looking very dangerous but so far DCE has held the Tigers up almost single-handedly. He intercepts the Brooks kick - and another Tigers’ set is repelled.
NRL H2 71:00 Wests Tigers 24-26 Manly Sea Eagles
Ineffective kick from the Sea Eagles and the Tigers take back possession. They make plenty of ground - back to the half-way mark, and get a penalty for a high-tackle on Tedesco. That’s the second high tackle against Taupau - who might be in trouble for his first high effort.
The Tigers fans are chanting - and it’s a nice grubber from Brooks on the 5th to force a goal-line dropout.
NRL H2 67:19 Wests Tigers 24-26 Manly Sea Eagles
Great set from the Tigers who go the length of the field, and Manly work it back from inside their own 10. However, the Tigers are slow to release and give away a penalty. That’ll help the Sea Eagles clear. They make it inside the Tigers’ 20 - but Cherry-Evans’ kick goes straight to Brooks - who in turn drops the ball. New set for Manly.
NRL H2 62:59 Wests Tigers 24-26 Manly Sea Eagles
Can the Tigers get the quick reply now? YES! Sauaso Sue - what footwork! He dodges three defenders, and is too powerful for Winterstein who can’t make the save.
It’s all happening at Leichhardt. Great game of league. 2 points in it.
This game!
— NRL (@NRL) August 13, 2017
Just keeps on giving.#NRLTigersManly#NRL pic.twitter.com/nojZA3Wlvh
NRL H2 60:00 Wests Tigers 18-26 Manly Sea Eagles
Uh oh, Tigers fans go quiet as Tedesco drops the kick-off. Wests are in danger of surrendering a quick return try to the Sea Eagles. They give away a penalty for slowing down the play-the-ball, and Manly look dangerous. Lloyd Perrett scores in a big hole - and that’s the quick reply from the Sea Eagles. Great work from Koroisau out of dummy half to put Perrett into space.
Conversion follows.
Crucial Try for the @SeaEagles!#NRLTigersManly#NRL pic.twitter.com/nBWQYOsFUE
— NRL (@NRL) August 13, 2017
Updated
NRL H2 56:40 Wests Tigers 18-20 Manly Sea Eagles
Tigers are pressing and they’re just outside the 10m with one more play. Another Tedesco kick goes nowhere - but it’s a penalty to the Tigers for offside - and they tap and go again. Tedesco tries to go himself from dummy half but a can’t find the line - and it’s yet another penalty to the Tigers. They tap and go yet again.
Lolohea! He’s in! They can’t stop him scoring a big try for the Tigers. There was hardly any space but he crashed through Winterstein. He converts his own try.
Here they come!@WestsTigers#NRLTigersManly#NRL pic.twitter.com/ZkDhhPgVOo
— NRL (@NRL) August 13, 2017
NRL H2 51:36 Wests Tigers 12-20 Manly Sea Eagles
Here’s the big, wide pass from Masters to Tedesco that led to that last try.
The @WestsTigers aren't done yet!#NRLTigersManly#NRL pic.twitter.com/ChPDPrKGik
— NRL (@NRL) August 13, 2017
NRL H2 50:21 Wests Tigers 12-20 Manly Sea Eagles
FINALLY another try to the Tigers after another Nofoaluma intercept (off another Tom Trbojevic pass) - and a long ball from Marsters to Tedesco opens up all sorts of space to let Naiqama through. Well done to the Tigers who persisted. Lolohea converts.
The photo below shows the blue socks worn by the Tigers to raise awareness for their partners Beyond Blue.
Updated
NRL H2 46:28 Wests Tigers 6-20 Manly Sea Eagles
Spiralling kick from DCE bounces out into touch - Nofoaluma lets it bounce out and the Tigers come again - but it’s a mistake from Eisenhuth who lets the ball slip in the tackle. Scrum to Manly. Another disappointing set for the Tigers.
Nofoaluma manages to intercept the errant Trbojevic pass on the Manly attack - and the Tigers make it inside the 20 with a big run from Naiqama. 2m out with one more - but Tedesco’s kick is ineffective.
Updated
NRL H2 42:16 Wests Tigers 6-20 Manly Sea Eagles
We’re back on at Leichhardt Oval and news has filtered through that Matt McIlwrick has failed a concussion test and will not take any part in the rest of the game. That’s another blow for the Tigers.
AFL Q1 27:48 Port Adelaide 2.4 (16) v Collingwood 1.3 (9)
It’s a tight, low-scoring game at Adelaide Oval, with the Power holding the slimmest of leads. Paddy Ryder and Sam Gray have one each for the Power, while Elliott has the only goal for the Pies. Ollie Wines has a massive 11 disposals, as does Jack Crisp for the Pies. Ebert also has 10 for Port.
AFL Q3 16:46 Hawthorn 15.5 (95) v North Melbourne 7.3 (45)
Still a big lead to the Hawks in this one - at their home away from home at University of Tasmania Stadium. A ‘rested’ Luke Hodge is back with 19 disposals - including 6 marks, 4 tackles and 4 rebound 50s. Not unusually for him, Tom Mitchell leads the possessions for his team with 21 (including 8 contested possessions and 4 clearances - 4 centre clearances). Isaac Smith, Ricky Henderson, Jarryd Roughead and Luke Bruest all have 2 goals each. For the Roos, Ben Brown has 2 goals, and Shaun Higgins has 19 disposals (5 contested possessions, 4 clearances, 3 tackles and 4 inside 40s).
Stats overall are fairly even - with the Hawks holding a narrow advantage in clearances (24-21) and contested possessions (79-69).
NRL half-time Wests Tigers 6-20 Manly Sea Eagles
Final play from Manly goes over the sideline, but they won’t be too bothered after that half. Cherry-Evans and Uate have doubles each for the Sea Eagles - while Wright has converted 2 of 4 (the two missed were difficult). For the Sea Eagles, Taupau (70) and Uate (68) lead the way for run metres, while Uate also has two line breaks and Koroisau has one. Koroisau is tackling well with 20, while Jake Trbojevic has 16. For the Tigers, Tedesco has 93 metres, and Woods has 86, while Nofoaluma and Brooks have a line break each. Taylor has 28 tackles and Eisenhuth has 22.
Manly have now jumped to 54% possession after failing to see much of the ball early. Worryingly for the Tigers they’ve missed 22 tackles.
NRL H1 38:50 Wests Tigers 6-20 Manly Sea Eagles
Thought that was a great pass from Tom Trbojevic - but it’s called forward. Lucky call for the Tigers who went from having all the possession to hardly any. Overall possession is now 53% for Manly.
Here’s that brilliant effort from Uate to stay inside and land the try.
"There aren't too many wingers who could score this Try!"#NRLTigersManly#NRL pic.twitter.com/45sJoiBUGS
— NRL (@NRL) August 13, 2017
NRL H1 34:50 Wests Tigers 6-20 Manly Sea Eagles
All the momentum is with the Sea Eagles despite the support of an impressive home crowd. You have to love Leichhardt Oval.
Tigers give away another penalty at the end of the set of 6 for the Sea Eagles - the last was for off-side. They reject the 2 and play on, looking to press for another 6.
UATE! He’s back to his best and over again with barely any room on the side line. Great bullet pass from Walker. Malaki tries to take Uate out but simply can’t. The kick hits the uprights, no conversion.
NRL H1 29:26 Wests Tigers 6-16 Manly Sea Eagles
That man again - DCE - finds his teammate Akuila Uate in space, and he finds the touch line despite being off balance. Uate has been impressive for his new club. Jake Trbojevic produced a brilliant pass out of dummy half to set his team on their way. Conversion is missed from 40m out.
NRL H1 26:22 Wests Tigers 6-12 Manly Sea Eagles
Tigers making some big metres - 75 for Aaron Woods and 72 for Tim Grant. Taupau has 70 for Manly (to go with 12 tackles) and the Sea Eagles have the ball back. Koroisau has 16 tackles in an impressive defensive effort.
Manly make up some ground through Tom Trbojevic - who kicks from dummy half, the ball riccochets off the post and Cherry-Evans catches it on the full to head over for a double. They’re a dangerous combination those two.
That’s one against the flow of play - disappointing for the Tigers.
NRL H1 22:22 Wests Tigers 6-6 Manly Sea Eagles
Six more for the Tigers from 20m out, who have had 64% possession. They’ll want to find the line with so much ball - they haven’t been particularly creative.
Knock-on goes against the Tigers - for a Manly scrum - and another set wasted for Wests.
NRL H1 19:27 Wests Tigers 6-6 Manly Sea Eagles
Obstruction against the Sea Eagles gifts Brooks the ball back, and the Tigers get another penalty for a swinging arm by Taupau - that was a thumping, dangerous tackle. 5 to come, 10 out from the Manly line. Chee-Kam was almost over but Cherry-Evans produced a try-saving tackle. Turnover on the kick - not a great from the Tigers, but they strip the ball back and come again from 20m out. Another set goes begging - but Wright knocks the ball out of play from the kick, so it’ll be another set for the Tigers.
Updated
NRL H1 14:26 Wests Tigers 6-6 Manly Sea Eagles
Great run by the Tigers who exposed plenty of space on the right. Lolohea almost converted his own kick - but the Sea Eagles stop him just a metre out. Nofoaluma has started well with 52 run metres.
And just like that the Sea Eagles get one back through Cherry-Evans - all thanks to the impressive run of Apisai Koroisau who evaded the Tigers’ defence, and helped Cherry-Evans over thanks to Cherry-Evans’ agile footwork. Matthew Wright converts.
It's @ApiKoroisau up the middle and DCE with the finish!#NRLTigersManly#NRL pic.twitter.com/Whcm6mpJss
— NRL (@NRL) August 13, 2017
Updated
NRL H1 8:26 Wests Tigers 6-0 Manly Sea Eagles
Tigers try!
Ref calls a forward pass from Brenton Lawrence - not sure about that - and the Tigers get the scrum. Tigers get another penalty (slow to release) and make good ground through Aaron Woods - whose contract controversy continues to follow him. Tigers inside Manly’s 20 for the second time today - Brooks shows the ball, weaves back inward and gets a kick in. Elijah Taylor was in for a try but looked to bounce it (no try was awarded at the time - but a try is given by the bunker!)
Elijah Taylor gets the party started!#NRLTigersManly#NRL pic.twitter.com/nc0LhN8XNS
— NRL (@NRL) August 13, 2017
Lolohea converts.
NRL H1 4:15 Wests Tigers 0-0 Manly Sea Eagles
Love the blue socks from the Wests - they’re raising awareness for BeyondBlue. Will get a photo.
Forward pass from Tedesco to Lolohea and the ball goes back to the Sea Eagles.
Updated
NRL H1 2:41 Wests Tigers 0-0 Manly Sea Eagles
Manly need to win by 13 or more to storm into the top 4 (in place of Cronulla, who have struggled lately).
It’s the Tigers however who are off to an impressive start, with some impressive metres to Nofoaluma down the right. Lolohea’s kick on the 5th, however, goes backwards and they lose some ground. Nofoaluma’s grubber gifts the ball back to the Sea Eagles.
AFL Q3 15:14 Hawthorn 7.3 (45) v North Melbourne 3.2 (20)
Just a very quick update before the NRL - Hawthorn easily leading this one. Leading possession getters include Jack Gunston (14), Tom Mitchell (13) and Isaac Smith (12). For the Roos Dumont has 12, Higgins (11) and Mullett (11). All single goal-kickers for the Kangaroos (Ben Brown, Kayne Turner and Cameron Zuhaar). Zuhaar was a late-in for captain Ziebell. For the Hawks, Gunston Hartung, McEvoy, Roughead, Burgoyne, Henderson have Howe have singles each.
NRL
Meanwhile - in case you haven’t heard already - it seems Benji Marshall will make a fairytale return to Wests Tigers next year. The 32-year-old has signed a one year contract, and will likely finish his career with the club where it all started. He played 201 games for the Tigers - including in their only grand final win in 2005. Since then he won the Golden Boot in 2010, and left the NRL for a stint with the Super Rugby Blues in 2014 - before he returned to play NRL with St George Illawarra and Brisbane. The Broncos were keen to re-sign him, however salary cap restraints led to him rejecting a ‘bargain basement’ deal and taking up the chance to re-join the Ivan Cleary rebuild of his old club.
NRL Wests Tigers v Manly Sea Eagles
Under ten minutes to go until this one starts: here’s my preview from earlier in case you missed it.
I’ll check in on the Sea Eagles’ finals hopes – with something of a logjam at the bottom of the eight. The Sea Eagles are now tied on points with the Panthers and Cowboys, after the Panthers leapfrogged both teams with their 24-16 victory at Pepper Stadium thanks to a Nathan Cleary second-half double (and brilliant try-saving tackle). The Warriors have lost their last 5 games by a fair margin, which opens the door for the Tigers to avoid finishing bottom of the table (especially given the recent form of the rejuvenated Knights). This clash, at Leichhardt oval, will therefore pit a team desperate to avoid the wooden spoon, against a team desperate to cement their spot in the finals, and perhaps the top four.
The last time these two sides played, the Sea Eagles were victorious 28-16 – and with their impressive form against the Roosters the week before, it’s hard to see Manly dropping this one. Manly are first in the competition for forced dropouts (43) and also lead the way with inside passing and change of direction in attack (compared to the Tigers who are worst in the league for changes of direction). Manly will also welcome the return of prop Addin Fonua-Blake from suspension – while, in a worrying stat for the home side, Akuila Uate has scored 10 tries from 10 games against the Tigers. The Tigers, however, were solid in their defeat against the Panthers, with James Tedesco and David Nofoaluma particularly impressive. Nofoaluma has scored six tries in six appearances against the Sea Eagles to go some way to countering Uate’s influence on these games. In a quirky stat, the Tigers have also never lost four in a row at Leichhardt oval since 2000 – and with 3 losses in a row at their home ground, they are due for a win. They’ve also won five out of seven clashes against the Sea Eagles at their suburban home. That said, the Sea Eagles dominate the overall ledger 14-9. I reckon they can win pretty convincingly.
NRL Canberra Raiders beat New Zealand Warriors 36-16
It’s all over at Mt Smart Stadium with the Raiders running away easy winners over the Warriors, 36-16. The Raiders could easily have won by more but for a late try to Isaiah Papalii and conversion by Mason Lino. The Raiders went over 6 times - with a double to Nick Cotric book-ending the game (he had one in the 8th minute and another in the 73rd). Croker, Austin, Leilua and Rapana all added tries for the visitors, and Croker converted 6 from 6 (to go with his 2 line breaks).
Cotric had a big game with 163 run metres to go with his double, as well as 2 line breaks, while Rapana had 133 run metres. Both paled in comparison to Roger Tuivasa-Sheck who had a huge 260 run metres for the Warriors, while Maumalo had 180m.
The Raiders are now within two wins of the top 8 with 3 more rounds to go.
Melbourne 14.12 (96) beat St Kilda 10.12 (72)
Crucial, season-defining win for the Demons - who needed that to claw their way back into the top 8. They find themselves in 7th - just above the Eagles (8th) and Bulldogs (9th), who are both all on 44 points. Port Adelaide are also on 44 points (in 6th) but they have a game to come today against Collingwood.
St Kilda gave them a big scare in the third term - but ultimately didn’t play anywhere near their best, particularly in the first half. Nathan Jones had a massive 35 disposals for his team - including 11 contested possessions, 2 clearances, 4 tackles and 4 inside 50s. Clayton Oliver had another 30+ with 32 disposals, 14 contested possessions, 7 clearances, 6 tackles and 3 inside 50s. Nice to see Angus Brayshaw back too with 26 disposals - lasting the game out despite a big hit to the head early in the game. Cameron Pederson also had 26 disposals - 12 contested possessions, 8 marks, 6 tackles and 2 goals. Harmes was brilliant for the Dees with 3 goals, while Mitch Hannan also kicked a couple of defining goals in the final quarter.
For the Saints, Jack Billings tried hard all day with 30 disposals - 8 contested possessions, 9 marks, 6 tackles and 3 inside 50s for 1.3. Dunstan also kicked a couple of goals, as did Sinclair and Membrey, but you’d think that’s season over for the Saints.
AFL Q4 00:55 remaining Melbourne 14.12 (96) v St Kilda 10.12 (72)
Nice goal from Jake Melksham - all his teammates told him to slow it down but he played on straight away - and got a low, long shot through the middle from 50m.
Updated
AFL Q4 02:06 remaining Melbourne 13.12 (90) v St Kilda 10.12 (72)
Harmes almost kicks his fourth - but it hammers into the post. Would’ve been fitting for him to kick the final goal.
Down the other end Josh Bruce runs into an open goal, bounces, and loses it! But Sinclair picks up the crumb and goals. Too little too late though for the Saints.
Updated
AFL Q4 04:26 remaining Melbourne 13.11 (89) v St Kilda 9.12 (66)
53,115 at today’s game - the Dees gave away a number of tickets for ‘Welcome Game’.
Harmes hits Pedersen inside 50 with some nice composure and speed. His shot falls short - but Max Gawn takes it from in front of the point post. He centres the ball to Weideman who is 30m out. He misses - but they’ll still win.
AFL Q4 07:00 remaining Melbourne 13.10 (88) v St Kilda 9.12 (66)
Think it’s all over for the Saints, who need 4 goals to win. They have, however, found Billings 45m out on a difficult angle. He doesn’t make the distance, and Gawn takes a contested mark.
AFL Q4 08:49 remaining Melbourne 13.10 (88) v St Kilda 9.12 (66)
Hannan takes a huge contested mark inside 50 - could he be the game-changer? He kicks a fabulous drop punt, to put the Demons out to 22 points.
AFL Q4 09:30 remaining Melbourne 12.10 (82) v St Kilda 9.12 (66)
Good kick by Newnes who finds Sinclair in the middle - Carlisle however bombs away to Jones - poor composure from him. The Saints get the ball back inside 50 after a turnover but the Dees clear - albeit with a casualty. Oscar McDonald is off the ground and Hibberd looks winded.
Dees however find a man free in the 50 - it’s Mitch Hannan. He scores a big, big goal.
Updated
AFL Q4 13:08 remaining Melbourne 11.10 (76) v St Kilda 9.12 (66)
Big, game-defining shot at goal for Jeff Garlett who missed Hannan free in the square by turning his back after taking a mark. He misses - that could be costly.
Down the other end, Billings misses another big shot at goal on the run- that would’ve had the Saints’ fans on their feet.
Updated
AFL Q4 15:35 remaining Melbourne 11.9 (75) v St Kilda 9.11 (65)
Bruce drops a chest mark inside the Saints’ 50 - and an opportunity goes begging. Poor choice by Max Gawn after he won a ruck free - and turned the ball over in the middle to let the Saints in.
Players look tired - plenty of mistakes ensuing.
AFL Q4 18:16 remaining Melbourne 11.9 (75) v St Kilda 9.11 (65)
Free goes to Harmes for holding off the ball - he palms off to Lewis who boots them inside 50, and the Dees get a steadier through Garlett. Too much space for the Demons’ forwards - shades of the first half.
AFL Q4 19:25 remaining Melbourne 10.9 (69) v St Kilda 9.11 (65)
198m gained in the third quarter by Jack Steven - and three goal involvements. Carlisle also had 8 possessions and took a number of important contested marks.
Off we go. Saints get the first clearance despite Max Gawn getting the tap - and Membrey takes a fine mark for another shot at goal. He should kick it - and does. Trouble for the Dees.
NRL H2 43:00 Warriors 6-18 Raiders
OK the scoreline isn’t as bad as I expected - the Warriors managed one back through David Fusitua in the 25th minute - which was converted by Mason Lino. However, the Raiders then hit back in the 33rd minute with a try to Blake Austin and conversion to Jarod Croker. Second half has just started.
Here’s the try to Austin, who dummies and finds a way through.
Show and go! Austin gets the job done. #NRLWarriorsRaiders 6-16 after 34 minutes.#NRL pic.twitter.com/sqeSYjR6yw
— NRL (@NRL) August 13, 2017
AFL three-quarter-time Melbourne 10.8 (69) v St Kilda 8.11 (59)
Another opportunity goes begging - Membrey had a shot on goal right before the siren - and it was almost as if the siren put him off on his approach.
Still, hard to believe the Saints are just 10 points in it. Had a feeling the Dees hadn’t put enough space between the two teams given how poorly the Saints played in the first half.
AFL Q3 00:23 remaining Melbourne 10.8 (69) v St Kilda 8.10 (58)
Bruce! He takes a screamer and hits up Jack Billings 40m out. Unbelievable to think the Saints could be back within a goal. He hits the post - disappointing for the Saints.
Here’s one of the better goals for the quarter - but I think Webster’s was even better.
Luke Dunstan keeps the Saints alive with a beauty 💫 #AFLDeesSaints pic.twitter.com/zycjsabbKf
— AFL (@AFL) August 13, 2017
AFL Q3 02:48 remaining Melbourne 10.8 (69) v St Kilda 8.9 (57)
Just 2 goals in it. Jack Steven is hauling his side back into this game. Sides trading turnovers at the moment which has kept this margin stagnant.
Updated
AFL Q3 06:51 remaining Melbourne 10.7 (67) v St Kilda 8.8 (56)
Unbelievable goal from Webster - who kicks it from almost 55m out on a sharp angle - and it’s GAME ON! That’s his only goal this season and it was a beauty.
AFL Q3 07:05 remaining Melbourne 10.7 (67) v St Kilda 7.8 (50)
Saints finally look to have some fluency in their movement - and confidence. They’re possessing the ball and hitting targets without panicking. Down field free goes to Dunstan in the goal square - after Tom McDonald got Billy Longer late in a clumsy free-kick. Finally this game heats up a bit - the Saints were 40 points down and now it’s just 17 points.
AFL Q3 08:31 remaining Melbourne 10.7 (67) v St Kilda 6.8 (44)
Beautiful running long goal from Dunstan just outside 50 - and the Saints finally convert one. They’ve had 2.4 this quarter.
How well can the Dees hold their nerve?
AFL Q3 09:30 remaining Melbourne 10.7 (67) v St Kilda 5.8 (38)
Bernie Vince’s errant kick-in almost results in a Bruce goal - but it’s smothered. He should’ve had more of that ball - and they let another opportunity slip.
This time Pedersen manages a smother off the boat of Jack Sinclair (while lying on the ground) - and they miss another.
AFL Q3 10:31 remaining Melbourne 10.7 (67) v St Kilda 5.6 (36)
Big goal to Melksham - Dylan Roberton had a chance to spoil but misjudges it. Saints will be disappointed as they were pressing hard, but they just can’t make the most of their opportunities this quarter.
AFL Q3 11:25 remaining Melbourne 9.6 (60) v St Kilda 5.6 (36)
Max Gawn can’t convert for the Dees - and hits the woodwork with a snap at goal. That would’ve put some important space between the Dees and Saints.
Back down the other end, the Saints have a chance to convert through Gresham, but he misses. Some missed opportunities both ways at the moment - but the Saints will need to start converting if they’re to have a chance.
AFL Q3 13:19 remaining Melbourne 9.6 (60) v St Kilda 5.5 (35)
Nice goal for the Saints through Membrey, who snapped it through after a series of handballs. Momentum seems to have shifted slightly, but Saints have plenty of way to go.
By the way, today is Melbourne’s ‘Welcome Game’ which is all about ‘inclusiveness’ - ‘whether you were born here or born overseas, whatever your religion, whatever your gender and whoever you love’. Read more on the Demons’ website here. Great initiative.
The Ruby Demons are Melbourne’s official Pride group. Check them out on Twitter @TheRubyDemons
Look out for Ruby Demon @jandrostephens (not pictured) carrying this rainbow flag in half-time parade today! #afldeessaints #WelcomeGame pic.twitter.com/G1ycM7Hcgp
— The Ruby Demons (@TheRubyDemons) August 13, 2017
Updated
AFL Q3 15:20 remaining Melbourne 9.6 (60) v St Kilda 4.5 (29)
Another opportunity goes begging for the Saints - Seb Ross was all on his own and needed just a short pass, but the Saints bomb it long and it goes out of bounds. St Kilda aren’t taking their opportunities - but the Dees look nervous anyway.
The Saints finally hit a target - thanks to Carlisle who hits up Gresham. He misses across the face.
AFL Q3 16:56 remaining Melbourne 9.6 (60) v St Kilda 4.4 (28)
Apparently Koby Stevens has a burst eardrum to go with his concussion. I’ve had one of those before and can assure you they are not pleasant!
Looks like Demons fans have come prepared for this one.
Demons fans bringing cheese platters #AFLDeesSaints pic.twitter.com/XBqG6GxPk1
— Brendan Maloney (@OnlyBaloney) August 13, 2017
AFL Q3 19:33 remaining Melbourne 9.6 (60) v St Kilda 4.4 (28)
It’s back on at the MCG. If anyone’s wondering why I keep saying that Jack Billings’ eye looks ‘horrible’ - this is why.
#AFLDeesSaints @mcg @stkildafc Jack Billings 2nd term @sports_hounds pic.twitter.com/nZdgNYaA7v
— Wayne Ludbey (@WLudbey) August 13, 2017
NRL
Speaking of NRL, AAP are reporting that Gold Coast will hold crisis talks with coach Neil Henry and superstar Jarryd Hayne on Monday after their relationship soured publicly. Hayne told News Corp that Henry did not talk to him in the week leading up to Saturday’s heavy loss to St George Illawarra. He also said he would leave - despite having another season on his $1.2 million a year deal - if he wasn’t wanted and would consult with his manager this week. It looks increasingly unlikely that both men will be at the club next year. Henry is already under pressure to keep his job after his side suffered their 14th loss of the season while the NRL has the club up for sale.
Updated
NRL H1 19:19 Warriors 0-12 Raiders
Hold up, now Croker is through via Cotric! And he converts his own try. Those two are causing all sorts of trouble for the Warriors. Hate to think what the final score might look like at Mt Smart.
Croker to Cotric. Now it's Cotric to Croker!#NRLWarriorsRaiders 0-12 after 18 minutes.#NRL pic.twitter.com/8IH0idKXoi
— NRL (@NRL) August 13, 2017
NRL H1 15:58 Warriors 0-6 Raiders
Canberra are already in with a try to Nick Cotric (and conversion to Croker) which doesn’t bode well for the already-deflated confidence of the New Zealanders.
Beautiful hands 🙌 @RaidersCanberra open the scoring.#NRLWarriorsRaiders 0-6 after 9 minutes.#NRL pic.twitter.com/0p5ENrJNbD
— NRL (@NRL) August 13, 2017
Women’s Rugby World Cup
Don’t forget that the Wallaroos face France in a do-or-die contest on Monday. They fell just short (19-17) against hosts Ireland in their first game, making it difficult for them to progress to the semi-finals (only the top-placed nation from each pool, plus the top-ranked second-placed side overall will progress after this group stage). Australia are in Pool C with France, Ireland and Japan. France thumped the Japanese in their opening contest 74-14. To have any hope of progressing, therefore, the Wallaroos will need to beat both France and Japan, and hope France beat Ireland.
The game will be shown live on Fox Sports from 4:45am.
Wallaroos side v France
1. Liz Patu — Queensland, Wests
2. Cheyenne Campbell — Queensland, Redlands
3. Hilisha Samoa — Queensland, Brothers
4. Chloe Butler — South Australia, Parramatta
5. Millie Boyle — ACT, Canberra Royals
6. Mollie Gray — Australian Defence Force (ADRFU), NSW, Maitland
7. Shannon Parry — Australian Sevens, Queensland, Redlands
8. Grace Hamilton — Sydney, Sydney University
9. Katrina Barker — NSW Country, Newcastle University
10. Trilleen Pomare — Western Australia, Wanneroo
11. Mahalia Murphy — Australian Sevens, NSW, Campbell Town
12. Sharni Williams — Australian Sevens, ACT, Canberra Royals
13. Sarah Riordan — Australian Defence Force (ADRFU), Victoria, Melbourne
14. Nareta Marsters — Queensland, Sunnybank
15. Samantha Treherne — Queensland, Sunnybank
Reserves
16. Louise Burrows — ACT, Royals
17. Emily Robinson — Sydney, Warringah
18. Hana Ngaha — Queensland, Sunnybank
19. Rebecca Clough — Western Australia, Cottesloe
20. Alisha Hewett — Australian Defence Force (ADRFU), Queensland, GPS
21. Fenella Hake — Queensland, Redlands
22. Kayla Sauvao — Sydney, Parramatta
23. Ashleigh Timoko — Western Australia, Wanneroo
AFL half-time Melbourne 9.6 (60) v St Kilda 4.4 (28)
The Saints found some momentum just before the half - but will rue giving away a goal on the siren to Cam Pedersen. Jayden Hunt set that up with a beautiful run through the middle and level-headed spotting of Pedersen in space. That’s the difference between these teams at the moment - composure under pressure.
Nathan Jones (19 disposals, 7 contested possessions, 4 marks), Angus Brayshaw (15 disposals, 6 contested possessions, 4 marks, 3 tackles) and Neal-Bullen (14 disposals, 7 marks, 3 tackles, 1 goal) lead the way for the Dees, while Harmes looks very dangerous with 3 goals.
For the Saints, Jack Billings has 17 possessions (5 contested possessions, 4 marks, 2 inside 50s) and Seb Ross has 21 disposals (4 contested possessions, 3 clearances).
The Saints however are well behind in key stats such as inside 50s (35-23), and their disposal efficiency is poor. That said, I’m surprised they’re as close as they are - they are still in this game purely on margin.
AFL Q2 02:34 remaining Melbourne 8.6 (54) v St Kilda 4.2 (26)
Carlisle is causing some headaches for the Demons’ defence - and has taken their best defender in Tom McDonald. Luke Dunstan has a shot 50m out - directly in front. Billings passed it off from 45m out on a worse angle - presumably because he can’t see out of a horribly swollen left eye.
He kicks a great goal. Saints don’t deserve to be this close.
AFL Q2 03:44 remaining Melbourne 8.6 (54) v St Kilda 3.2 (20)
Koby Stevens is done for the game after failing a concussion test (he suffered a big knock to the jaw in the clash with Angus Brayshaw - clearly coming off second best). Saints down a rotation - that’s the last thing they needed.
Saints get the rebound after a Neal-Bullen turnover inside 50 - and almost make a meal of it, but finally get one back through Weller. Carlisle is playing at full-forward, and got the tap down to Weller for a goal assist.
AFL Q2 06:00 remaining Melbourne 8.5 (53) v St Kilda 2.2 (14)
The Dees get one back immediately through Neal-Bullen. Harmes passed it off from 55 out - to a target 40m out. That one was reasonable to dish off - unlike Bruce’s pass just moments earlier.
Updated
AFL Q2 07:01 remaining Melbourne 7.5 (47) v St Kilda 2.2 (14)
Saints hit a target inside 50! And they get an ironic cheer from their own fans. Oddly - Bruce passes the ball from 40m out to Jack Billings - on a worse angle. It looked to go about 8 metres but was adjudged to have gone 15.
Billings’ left eye looks horribly swollen.
He kicks the goal - it floated horribly and just made it over the fingers of Max Gawn.
Updated
AFL Q2 08:15 remaining Melbourne 7.5 (47) v St Kilda 1.2 (8)
Half-time can’t come soon enough for the Saints. They’re down 28 inside 50s to 16, 64 contested possessions to 57, 190 disposals to 165. They are winning the clearances 12-10, but can’t do anything with them so far.
AFL Q2 09:42 remaining Melbourne 7.5 (47) v St Kilda 1.2 (8)
Good to see Angus Brayshaw hit 12 disposals - 6 contested possessions, 2 tackles, a clearance, 2 marks - for 83% disposal efficiency. Welcome back, Angus. He’s getting a standing ovation every time he goes near the bench. Looks rejuvenated since bouncing back from the earlier head knock.
VERY disappointing game from the Saints so far - and Membrey kicks it out on the full from 10m out. Wow. What a difference a week makes.
AFL Q2 12:12 remaining Melbourne 7.5 (47) v St Kilda 1.2 (8)
The Saints just can’t get anything right. They had several forwards free - including Membrey all on his own inside 50 - and couldn’t hit the target.
The ball rockets back inside the Demons’ 50 and Max Gawn makes them pay with a big drop punt from outside 50 that sails through the middle.
Updated
AFL Q2 14:49 remaining Melbourne 6.5 (41) v St Kilda 1.1 (7)
Here’s one of the highlights of the first quarter - Harmes’ brilliant pack mark and goal. He’s been a handy inclusion this week.
Harmes. Is. Going. To. Work. #AFLDeesSaints pic.twitter.com/rXUM0qcle0
— AFL (@AFL) August 13, 2017
AFL Q2 16:27 remaining Melbourne 6.5 (41) v St Kilda 1.1 (7)
Thanks for your comment WinnieOfOz - I certainly didn’t predict that the Hawthorn game would have no bearing on the finals race. Thinking their final game (and the send-off for Luke Hodge) will decide whether my Bulldogs make the finals, though. Bit worried about what they can produce for his retirement game! Glad you were keen on the City2Surf coverage - there were some incredible photos of the crowd. Fantastic to see so many people out and about for charity.
Demons are still peppering the goals, but have suffered from inaccuracy in this term to date. 58% disposal efficiency for the Saints as a team - just can’t keep the ball in their possession.
AFL quarter-time Melbourne 6.3 (39) v St Kilda 1.1 (7)
Siren sounds to end a horror term for the Saints. Dees winning the possessions 135-109, inside 50s 22-11 and contested possessions 44-36. Nathan Jones has a massive 14 disposals (5 contested possessions, 2 inside 50s, 79% disposal efficiency). Oliver has 11 (3 contested possessions, 82% disposal efficiency). Harmes has 3 goals from 6 disposals.
For the Saints, Seb Ross has 14 disposals - but only 50% disposal efficiency. Dylan Roberton has 10 for a slightly better 70% disposal efficiency. Their solitary goal was to Josh Bruce.
AFL Q1 00:20 remaining Melbourne 6.3 (39) v St Kilda 1.1 (7)
The Demons have a spare down back and the Saints keep bombing the ball long to the intercept defender. Harmes meanwhile is off for a break after his stellar opening term.
25 disposals between Nathan Jones and Clayton Oliver so far.
Cam Pederson’s turn for a set shot after Josh Bruce turns the ball over - Saints look completely overwhelmed. Pederson kicks the Demons’ sixth.
AFL Q1 03:56 remaining Melbourne 5.3 (33) v St Kilda 1.1 (7)
Unbelievable - Harmes kicks his third for the quarter. He was completely unmarked, dodged a defender, took a bounce and slotted the goal. The Saints need some help down back - the Dees’ forwards are in space every time. 19-10 inside 50s for the Demons.
AFL Q1 04:30 remaining Melbourne 4.3 (27) v St Kilda 1.1 (7)
Seems as if Jack Billings is being assessed for an eye injury - that’s yet more bad news for the Saints who are well off the pace at the moment. Good to see Brayshaw involved in a few contests - looks like he’ll be fine. Think I speak for everyone (Saints fans included) when I say we’re glad to see that. He’s had a horror run.
AFL Q1 07:17 remaining Melbourne 4.2 (26) v St Kilda 1.1 (7)
Clayton Oliver has 10 disposals - 3 contested possessions and 80% disposal efficiency. 15-10 inside 50s to the Demons.
Angus Brayshaw is suffering from a massive head clash with Koby Stevens - with a helmet on given his history of concussion issues. He looks OK - thankfully. Stevens looks to have some after-effects from the knock, but will come back on.
Meanwhile Josh Bruce lines up for the Saints’ first and makes no mistake. Lucky, as he almost played on but was given leniency from the umpire.
AFL Q1 09:07 remaining Melbourne 4.2 (26) v St Kilda 0.1 (1)
Yet another goal to the Dees through Dom Tyson - who took the handball receive after a set of Demon handballs through the middle (in space, again). Very worrying sign for the Saints.
Hunt almost kicks another but is inaccurate from 50.
AFL Q1 10:24 remaining Melbourne 3.1 (19) v St Kilda 0.1 (1)
Harmes slots another - but how he got that much space in the forward line will bother the Saints. Neal-Bullen had just as much space in the pocket, and gave the assist to Harmes for an easy snap. Oliver has 9 disposals already.
Updated
AFL Q1 10:53 remaining Melbourne 2.1 (13) v St Kilda 0.1 (1)
Dees looking dangerous through the middle, they look too quick for the Saints - but both teams are finding plenty of space and run through the middle (it’s the inside 50s that have cost both teams with poor accuracy).
34 turnovers so far in this game (and counting).
AFL Q1 13:38 remaining Melbourne 2.1 (13) v St Kilda 0.1 (1)
An unmarked Jordan Lewis bombs it inside 50 and Mitch Harmes takes a spectacular grab - will get vision. Goal to the Dees who have gone deliberately small in the forward line.
AFL Q1 14:26 remaining Melbourne 1.1 (7) v St Kilda 0.1 (1)
A holding free inside 50 gifts the ball to Viney - Dom Tyson thought it was his, and Blake Acres accidentally gives away 50 by marking Viney. Unlucky for the Saints.
Updated
AFL Q1 14:36 remaining Melbourne 0.1 (1) v St Kilda 0.1 (1)
Saints find all kinds of space inside 50 but Mav Weller makes a crucial mistake - he had two other forwards free, waited, then turned the ball over trying to pass it off, even though he was 30m out with a clear shot at goal. Neither side handling the pressure well.
AFL Q1 15:50 remaining Melbourne 0.1 (1) v St Kilda 0.0 (0)
Saints and Dees exchanging turnovers - both winning the ball easily through the midfield but over-possessing, and picking out opposition defenders in the 50.
First score is a rushed behind to the Dees after Clayton Oliver bombed the ball forward. He’s already had 5 disposals, the most of anyone.
AFL Q1 18:30 remaining Melbourne 0.0 (0) v St Kilda 0.0 (0)
Tom McDonald is in the backline - lining up on Josh Bruce. Bit worried about the Dees’ scoring power without McDonald forward and no Jack Watts, too.
Opening free-kick goes the Saints for a tackle off the ball by Nathan Jones, and Carlisle stops a promising foray forward by the Dees, who burst through the midfield with speed.
Intensity so far is as you’d expect. Lots of tight, contested footy.
Premier League
Just before this game starts, Aaron Mooy’s Premier League debut has got off to a great start, with Huddersfield Town surging to a 3-0 victory over Crystal Palace at Selhurst Park. It has been 45 years since the side has competed in the top flight of English football - and they started with a stirring win. (Selhurst Park has likewise had an elongated absence - last seen in the Premier League in 1972).
Moor was involved in two goals. First, his corner was flicked on by Chris Schindler at the near post. Mathias Jorgensen met it just beyond the back post, and Joel Ward inadvertently nudged the ball over his own line. Later, Mooy was involved again, crossing from the left after being released by Chris Löwe and neglected by Palace’s defence. Mounié, similarly free in the middle, expressed his gratitude for the slovenly defending by banging a header into the net from seven yards out, as Patrick van Aanholt stood watching in bemusement.
The news was not as good for Mat Ryan, with Brighton going down 0-2 to Manchester City at home. Like Huddersfield, Brighton have had a long absence from the Premier League - since 1983 to be exact. There was no fairtyale in this match, however, with Brighton ultimately no match for their much bigger and financially-backed opponents.
AFL Melbourne v St Kilda
I’ll continue so more rolling updates for other sports in the breaks in this game/before the NRL.
Meanwhile, no changes for either team in the lead-up to this big clash. Beautiful, sunny day in Melbourne today - but looks like the crowd is somewhat disappointing at this stage.
Lovely day out but 20 mins before the bounce the crowd looks bit light for such an important match #AFLDeesSaints pic.twitter.com/h4nGundD8y
— Bill Thomson (@Bill_Thomson) August 13, 2017
Golf
Some very bad news for Australia at the US PGA Championships - with Jason Day imploding on day three to crash out of contention and give away his best chance at a second career major. Day shot a six-over-par 77 at Quail Hollow, taking him to 16th (even-par), seven shots behind leader Kevin Kisner. Kisner (72) now leads by one-shot over World No.3 Hideki Matsuyama (73) and Chris Stroud (71).
The following text is with thanks to AAP:
“Playing in Saturday’s final group with Kisner and Matsuyama, Day’s nightmare rounded was epitomised by a bizarre decision on the par-4 18th hole to go for the green with his approach after finding trouble from the tee. The 29-year-old Australian hit his second shot into a shrub and had to take a penalty drop en route to a crippling quadruple-bogey 8. It soured a brief comeback during which Day bagged three consecutive birdies from the par-4 14th which kept him in the hunt despite a poor opening 13 holes. Day gave back a shot on the front nine at Quail Hollow to before a nightmare two holes saw the Queenslander double-bogey the par-4 12th and bogey the par-3 13th. Fellow Australians Adam Scott and Marc Leishman are well off the pace after three rounds. Leishman carded a 71 to remain at four-over while world No.17 Scott fell further back of the lead with a 74 to sink to eight-over for the championship.”
City2Surf
Sydney’s City2Surf is done for another year – with more than 80,000 competitors taking part in the event that winds its way from Hyde Park in the city to Bondi Beach. The event was won by Harry Summers in a time of 42:16. Celia Sullohern was the first woman across the line after the 14km race in a time of 47:11, while Kurt Fearnley was the first wheelchair athlete to finish. Thanks to AAP for that.
Updated
World Athletics Championships
Some big news coming out of London, with Sally Pearson winning gold in the 100m hurdles at the World Athletics Championships with a time of 12.59 seconds. The win will be all the sweeter for Pearson given her long battle with injury - including wrist, hamstring and achilles problems which have plagued her since 2013. Indeed, this was Pearson’s first major global championship since that year, and is Pearson’s third major 100m hurdles title (she won gold at the 2011 world championships in Daegu and the 2012 London Olympics). At 30 years of age, she joins Cathy Freeman and Jana Pittman as the only Australians to have won two world track and field titles.
Coming in second was Pearson’s long-time rival Dawn Harper-Nelson of the U.S. (12.63 seconds), while Pamela Dutkiewicz of Germany claimed bronze in 12.72 seconds.
Hi everyone and welcome to this Sunday edition of Guardian Sportwatch. I’m Kate O’Halloran and here we keep you up-to-date with what’s happening in the world of Australian sport, whatever your preferred shape of ball. Don’t forget to comment below, tweet or email me (or the @GdnSportAus account) – using the hashtag #sportwatch.
Today I’ll bring you the 1:10pm (AEST) Melbourne v St Kilda AFL clash which is a critical game in the finals race. It looks like whoever wins this clash will dislodge the reigning premiers, the Bulldogs, from the top 8 (currently Melbourne’s percentage is far superior to theirs, while St Kilda’s hovers just below – that should improve if they win). I live-blogged the Melbourne v GWS clash last week, and as impressive as GWS were (finding top gear just at the right end of the season), the Dees were equally disappointing, kicking the opening three goals before barely giving a yelp in their significant defeat. This of course followed their shock loss to the Roos. St Kilda, meanwhile, were impressive in their thrilling victory over the Eagles on Sunday, breathing new life into their finals campaign after going down in a nailbiter the week before to the Power, in a game they should have won.
It was a fair while ago now, but these two teams met in Round One of the AFL season – with the Saints kicking six goals to two in the opening quarter. The Demons then followed with 16 goals to seven to go on to win. It was a history-defying victory for the Dees, who had lost their previous 14 clashes against the Saints.
The Demons have swung the changes after their poor showing last week, with all of Sam Frost, Christian Salem, Corey Maynard and Jack Watts omitted. In their place returns Mitch Hannan, Angus Brayshaw, Sam Weideman and Josh Wagner. The Saints, meanwhile, lose retiring champion Nick Riewoldt, who has failed to come up from a concussion, and is replaced by Sam Gilbert. Former Pie Nathan J Brown will play his 150th game today, while former Don Michael Hibberd plays his 100th. What a pick-up he has been for the Demons. Also on a hot streak is ruckman Max Gawn, who has averaged over 50 hitouts over the last couple of weeks. Good to see him take the field after that hit from Shane Mumford last week, which saw him suspended. For the Saints, young forward Jack Billings was in superb form last week, willing his side over the line against the Eagles. Will be of interest to see how he goes this week – he can certainly be hot and cold, Billings.
In the afternoon I’ll switch codes to the NRL to check in on the Sea Eagles’ finals hopes – with something of a logjam at the bottom of the eight. The Sea Eagles are now tied on points with the Panthers and Cowboys, after the Panthers leapfrogged both teams with their 24-16 victory at Pepper Stadium thanks to a Nathan Cleary second-half double (and brilliant try-saving tackle). The Warriors have lost their last 5 games by a fair margin, which opens the door for the Tigers to avoid finishing bottom of the table (especially given the recent form of the rejuvenated Knights). This clash, at Leichhardt oval, will therefore pit a team desperate to avoid the wooden spoon, against a team desperate to cement their spot in the finals, and perhaps the top four.
The last time these two sides played, the Sea Eagles were victorious 28-16 – and with their impressive form against the Roosters the week before, it’s hard to see Manly dropping this one. Manly are first in the competition for forced dropouts (43) and also lead the way with inside passing and change of direction in attack (compared to the Tigers who are worst in the league for changes of direction). Manly will also welcome the return of prop Addin Fonua-Blake from suspension – while, in a worrying stat for the home side, Akuila Uate has scored 10 tries from 10 games against the Tigers. The Tigers, however, were solid in their defeat against the Panthers, with James Tedesco and David Nofoaluma particularly impressive. Nofoaluma has scored six tries in six appearances against the Sea Eagles to go some way to countering Uate’s influence on these games. In a quirky stat, the Tigers have also never lost four in a row at Leichhardt oval since 2000 – and with 3 losses in a row at their home ground, they are due for a win. They’ve also won five out of seven clashes against the Sea Eagles at their suburban home. That said, the Sea Eagles dominate the overall ledger 14-9. I reckon they can win pretty convincingly.
I’ll also be sure to check in on the Port Adelaide v Collingwood clash after that game concludes, with this a danger game for the Power given Collingwood’s recent run of form.
I’ll be back shortly after I check in on other sporting news as it launched overnight.
Kate will be here shortly. In the meantime, check out how all things Australian sport went down with yesterday’s Sportwatch:
Updated
