MCCARTHY HOMES QAFL MATCH REVIEW - PIES POCKET AN UGLY 4 POINTS

The Western Magpies have had a hard fought 40 point win over Wilston Grange to close the gap on the QAFL top five. The final score at McCarthy Homes Oval 14.8-92 to 7.10-52 in what was a dull affair.

The match never reached great heights and was a congested slog as Wilston Grange played 2 extra players in defence to limit the Pies scoring and the home team found it hard to get space up forward against a negative opponent.

However to paraphrase Steve Waugh "a bad win is much better than a good loss!".

The Gorillas certainly came to play and had the Pies on the back foot in the first quarter booting 3 early goals to have a 14 point lead mid way through the quarter, as the Pies took time to re-adjust against an 8-9 man defence and a midfield intent on the man, not the footy.

The Magpies then settled and through hard work from Ryan Harwood, Liam Dwyer and Captain Drew Mitchell, the Pies wrested back control to take quarter time lead.

The second quarter was an arm wrestle but then the Pies booted late goals to have a 4 goal half time lead, highlighted by defender Luca Winton slotting his first goal for the Pies. Coach Brydan Morgan asked his players at half time to think through the Grange defensive crowd and to "navigate their way goalwards".  It was also important to maintain discipline and not get sucked into the off the ball niggle against an opponent with nothing to play for.

The Pies then did what good sides do and dominated early in the third quarter with a further three goals to have a 7 goal  buffer by midway through the third quarter. The Pies could not extend their lead and settled for a hard fought 40 point win, ugly but successful.

David Lewis and Luca Winton continued their good partnership to control across half back and Liam Dwyer worked hard all game whether across half forward or in ruck. He lead hard when at CHF and was rewarded with 3 goals. 

Aaron Highlands started at centre half back but was a fine player when moved into the ruck and Jack Goodall was played well whether on a wing, across half forward or when in defence for a period. His marking  and non stop work was a highlight. 

Midfielders Ryan Harwood, skipper Drew Mitchell and Ben Jaenke-Cain were also busy in a tough midfield battle. 

The Pies turn their attention to Labrador on the coast next Saturday and must be tuned in to prevent an upset which would derail their season. Despite being one game outside the five, the Pies could easily still finish in third place but any slips could also see them miss out on the finals, such is the logjam from 3-6 on the ladder.

Western Magpies   4.2-26   8.4-52  11.7-73  14.8-92

defeated

Wilston Grange      3.3-21   4.5-29   5.8-38   7.10- 52

Best: D. Lewis, L. Winton, L. Dwyer, B. Jaenke-Cain, D. Mitchell, J. Goodall

Goals: L. Dwyer 3, J. De Winter 2, R. Harwood, L. Winton, T. Ielasi, R. Easton, S. Copland, K. Reed, D. Adkins, D. Mitchell, L. Woods
 

One 2 One Plumbing - Reserves Match Review

RESERVES STILL IN FINALS RACE AFTER ANOTHER STRONG WIN

As expected the Pies Reserves proved too strong for the eighth placed Wilston Grange with a 45 point victory, winning 16.12- 108 to 10.3-63.

The Pies started strongly despite the late withdrawals of Peter Kilroy-- with soreness and Logan Murray with illness. Their places were filled by club stalwart Gabe McKinnon, who had played for the Woodsmen on Friday night, and young Colts utility Jordan Bonney.

With young livewire forward Sam Parker creating spark across half forward and Jack Austin looking dangerous in the air the Pies were able to boot goals regularly to establish a good early lead which they consolidated throughout the match. 

Monty Vine was asked to ruck all game and he did a great job to be the Pies best player and midfielder Lachie Dennis continued his good recent form to be a ball magnet, while Rory Johnson also found plenty of the ball as he continues his improvement each game since returning from injury.  

Kurt Vine was solid across half back with good reading of the play and Tristan Dowdy mopped up well in the last line of defence. 

The Pies must keep winning to keep their finals hopes alive and they should have defeated their next opponent Labrador earlier in the season. The Tigers will be a challenge but the Pies now have the side to continue their winning streak.

Western Magpies 4.4-28 | 7.5-47 | 11.8-74 | 16.12-108

defeated

Wilston Grange 0.0 | 4.0-24 | 6.3-39 | 10.3-63

Best: M. Vine, S. Parker, L. Dennis, T. Dowdy, R. Johnson, K. Vine

Goals: S. Parker 4, J. Austin 3, J. DeRooy 2, B. Saunders 2, L. Dennis, S. Kwizera, R. Johnson, M. Mazerolle, G. Crawford
 

Arabon Financial - Colts Match Review

COLTS CONSOLIDATE SECOND ON LADDER

The Western Magpies Colts consolidated in second place on the QAFL ladder when they comfortably disposed of the third placed Wilston Grange on Saturday evening at McCarthy Homes Oval at Chelmer. 

The Pies were on song from the first bounce , kicking 5 first quarter goals to establish a good early lead which was never really challenged by the Gorillas. The only negative was the Pies poor kicking for goal after quarter time as they won 9.17-71 to 6.4-40, kicking 4.12 after 1/4 time.

The Pies impressed with their ball use except in front of goal. They moved the ball quickly by hand and foot and their use of handball in close then to spread the ball was impressive.  Of particular note was their ability to lower their eyes and find shorter targets when available, whilst finding the talls on the move or one out with a kick to advantage.

The Pies mosquito fleet of Ritti Batilimoyo, Sean Ryan, Dan Edwards, Bruce Reville and Sam Mehari created plenty of havoc and opened up space for the Pies. Midfielder Zane Lovell continued his recent good form and defenders Aiden D'Roza and Chris Moloney held the Grange forwards in check. Ryan Cherry had plenty of the ball in midfield to also continue his recent good run of form and ruckman Samson Ryan again had a good game. .

The Pies are now in the box seat to finish on top of the ladder if they hold their current form and win their remaining matches.

Western Magpies 5.5-35 | 6.12-48 |8.14-62 | 9.17-71

defeated

Wilston Grange 1.3-9 | 5.3-33 | 5.4-34 | 6.4-40

WESTERN MAGPIES

Best: Z. Lovell, A. D'Roza, R. Cherry, S. Ryan, C. Moloney

Goals: S. Ryan 2, R. Batilimoyo 2, D. Edwards, C. Ferguson, F. Collison, S. Ryan, L. Pearson
 

PLACE PREVIEW - MAGPIE FORM BUILDING FOR MUST WIN MATCH

The Western Magpies take on Wilston Grange in a cross town battle when the two rivals clash in QAFL Round 15 at McCarthy Homes Oval at Chelmer on Saturday.

The Magpies haven't played a bad game all year, but find themselves 5 wins and 6 losses and sitting 6th on the ladder thanks largely due to an inability to win the close ones, with the average losing margin just 13 points this year and in 2017/18 the team is 0-7 in games decided by 15 points or less.

While stats like that can look disappointing, the tide inevitably turns and the Magpies will be on the right side of the ledger in some big games!

The Magpies welcome back Doug Lawrence from Aspley, Sam Copland from Redland and Brady Allen from injury. Ironically Lawrence and Copland opposed each other last week in the NEAFL.

Out are Anthony Corrie to suspension while Brodie Easton and Brenton Saunders go back to the Reserves.

Copland is a straight swap for Corrie and with the in form Jake de Winter forms a potent two pronged attack. Jack Goodall has been named in defence but with Allen and Lawrence coming into the side he may find himself more forward after a three goal effort last week.

Ryan Harwood has been a stand out in recent matches and Drew Mitchell has been consistent ball winner in the last few weeks. Luke Mitchell has provided run and carry out of defence to give the Pies some spark, Tom Ielasi was back to his best after a lay-off and Riley Easton has been sensational with his defensive work in midfield and up forward.

Coach Brydan Morgan knows his side is on a knife edge on the win-loss column and the Pies cannot afford any slip ups. They will need to be on song to deflect the expected Gorillas challenge and if form and ladder positions is any guide the Pies should be able to safely pocket the four points.   

QAFL Round 15: Western Magpies v Wilston Grange at McCarthy Homes Oval, Chelmer on Saturday, July 28th at 2.00 pm.  

B: Doug Lawrence Jack Goodall  Luca Winton

HB:  David Lewis  Aaron Highlands Matt Davis

C:   Ben Jaenke-Cain Jono Macanawai Luke Mitchell

HF:  Jake De Winter Liam Dwyer Brady Allen

F:   Kale Reed  Sam Copland  Riley Easton

Ruck:   Dylan Adkins Drew Mitchell (Capt) Ryan Harwood

I/C:  Will Fletcher,  Aaron Maricic, Tom Ielasi, Lachlan Woods

In: Doug Lawrence, Sam Copland, Brady Allen

Out: Brodie Easton, Brenton Saunders (both Reserves), Anthony Corrie (suspended) 

Genuine Garage Door Solutions - Colts Match Preview

COLTS IN ANOTHER CRUCIAL TWILIGHT MATCH

The Western Magpies Colts sit second on the ladder on equal points with the ladder leaders and they have another battle for top spot when they host third placed Wilston Grange at McCarthy Homes Oval, Chelmer on Saturday evening.

The Pies were good in disposing of another finals contender in PBC last week and will be keen to further enhance their premiership credentials against another contender.

The Pies welcome back a couple of speedsters in Sam Mehari and Ritti Batilimoyo and classy midfielder Jacob Sheath returns to bolster the engine room.

With Finn Collison in season best form last week with 7 goals and Cam Ferguson also doing his bit at CHF the Pies have some big forward targets and if the ball hits the ground then Mehari, Lachlan Pearson (4 goals last week)  and Queensland Under 17 representatives Bruce Reville and Sean Ryan can be dangerous.

Samson Ryan is a fine ruckman who will give Zane Lovell, Dan Edwards and Sheath plenty of chances to drive the Pies forward and the defence headed by Whitlam Bishop, Chris Moloney and the returning Charlie Thorpe  has been rock solid in most matches this year.

The Magpies will be challenged by the Gorillas and there was not much in their first clash this year, so expect a hard fought contest.

QAFL Round 15: Western Magpies Colts v Wilston Grange McCarthy Homes Oval, Chelmer on Saturday July 28th at 9.30am

B:    Chris Jenkins (vc)  Chris Moloney  Aiden D'Roza         

HB:  Charlie Thorpe  Whitlam Bishop (vc)  Ethan Sivijs

C:  Ritti Batilimoyo  Zane Lovell  Dan Edwards

HF:  Bruce Reville  Cam Ferguson Sean Ryan

F:  Noah Resuggan (Capt)  Finn Collison Sam Mehari

Rucks:  Samson Ryan Jacob Sheath Ryan Cherry  

I/C:  Lachlan Pearson , Deng Arok, Jayden Johnson, Jacob Aurich

In: Charlie Thorpe, Ritti Batilimoyo, Sam Mehari, Jacob Sheath

Out: Harry Keenan, Tom Slatter, Cooper Crowell, Abdullah Haddad

Sci-Fleet - Reserves Match Preview

The Western Magpies Reserves again look strong coming up against Wilston Grange at McCarthy Homes Oval at Chelmer today. The Magpies will be looking to maintain their momentum and will be looking to keep their season alive with another win to underline their good form.

The Pies in and out ledger is probably balanced out with big men Gerard Moore and Nathan Congram both missing with work commitments and midfielder Sam Denys unavailable. 

In are Brodie Easton and Brenton Saunders from the Seniors and forwards Jeremy DeRooy and Matt Mazarolle, both back in after being unavailable last week.

The Pies should win the midfield battles with Easton joining Logan Murray, Gareth Crawford and Lachie Dennis to form a high class foursome.  

Jack Austin and DeRooy provide the forward targets with the dangerous Val Pope and Saunders to prove troublesome for the Gorilla defenders.

Harry Marshall has returned to form and Kurt Vine's  attack on the football last week was superb and Peter Kilroy was, well, Peter Kilroy.

Coach Des Lashman will be stressing the need for another good start but also to win the third quarter, an area the Pies have struggled with this season. 

Again, the Pies will need to be switched on from the first bounce to ensure they put the Gorillas challenge to bed early and win to keep in touch with the top five.  

QAFL Round 15: Western Magpies Reserves v Wilson Grange at McCarthy Homes Oval, Chelmer on Saturday July 28th at 11.30 am. 
 

B:  Kurt Vine Harry Marshall Sam Hartog

HB: Zach Collison  Chris Hunt  Peter Kilroy

C:  Sean Mewing (Capt) Brodie Easton  Sean McEvoy (vc) 

HF:   Val Pope Jack Austin Brenton Saunders

F:  Sempitake Kwizera Jeremy DeRooy Sam Parker

Rucks: Monty Vine Logan Murray Gareth Crawford

I/C:  Tristan Dowdy, Matt Mazarolle, Lachie Dennis, Rory Johnson

REGIS AGED CARE GUT FEELINGS XI - A COLLECTION OF DEEP THOUGHTS FROM INFLUENTIAL MINDS DEEP INSIDE THE NEST

• Three out of four ain’t bad but the crucial loss was in the Seniors, who went down by 4 points to the ladder leaders Palm Beach-Currumbin. It was a match the Pies could have won but they after a good early lead before PBC took control, however with PBC reduced to 18 men for the final quarter the Pies had a chance to pinch it and fell short by a single kick.
• Form this year suggests any of the top 6 are good enough, but you have to get there first and be part of the top 5!
• The run home of the top six clubs is listed below. The Pies are the only club not to have a bye so have an opportunity to claw back 4 points on the other clubs and then it comes down to just winning games of footy.  The final amtch of the year vs Surfers could be for a double chance, or it could be for 5th spot.  Only time will tell!

PBC--44 pts-- Broadbeach (h), bye, Surfers (h), Grange (h), Mt Gravatt (h)

Broadbeach-- 36 pts-- PBC (a), Sandgate (h), Grange (a), bye, Labrador (h). 

Mt Gravatt--32 pts-- Sandgate (a), Morningside (h), bye, Surfers (h), PBC (a)

Surfers Paradise--28 pts-- bye, Grange (a), PBC (a) Mt Gravatt (a), Magpies (h)

Morningside--28 pts-- bye, Mt Gravatt (a), Magpies (h), Labrador (a), Sandgate (a)

Magpies-- 20 pts-- Grange (h), Labrador (a) Morningside (a), Sandgate (h) Surfers (a)

• The match against PBC was held up for 30 minutes in the third quarter when a young Lion player suffered a severe concussion in a collision. The medical staff of both clubs were fantastic in the management of the player as his injuries were such that they decided to wait for an ambulance. The player was transported to PAH and was allowed to leave then next day after being admitted for observation overnight and cleared of any spinal injuries.
• Jake De Winter is still second on the QAFL goalkicking ladder with 36 goals, trailing leader Broadbeach’s Matt Fowler on 39 goals. 
• Ryan Harwood leads the Pies Syd Guildford best player voting with 31 votes in eighth place behind leader Campbell Wearne of Morningside on 51 votes. Voting goes silent for the last 5 rounds and with 10 votes per game on offer, Harwood is not out of the running.
• On Saturday Harwood polled 6 votes with Tom Ielasi 4, and Jake De Winter 1. 
• The Reserves held on after a good first half but faltered in the third quarter before regaining their composure to claim a vital victory. The Pies Reserves have faltered several ties after half time this year and the question has to be asked what coach Des Lashman says at half time!! They are still a chance for finals but cannot afford any slip-ups, certainly once they get there - nobody will want to play them!
• The Colts disposed of fellow finals contender PBC in emphatic fashion with Finn Collison leading the way with 7 goals. The second placed Colts have another challenge on Saturday against third placed Wilston Grange, but have an embarassment of riches at their disposal talent wise, we don't envy the Colts match committee!
• The 2008 reunion was  a great success with 19 of a possible 22 players attending. The reunion was organised by 2008 premiership captain and current Woodsmen coach Chris Mihalopoulos , 2008 premiership coach Paul Grentell, and Tim McEvoy, who was a member of the leadership group in 2008. 

Standing: Quentin Johnson (Assist coach), Sean Mewing, Chris Judson, Val Pope, Matt Thompson, Todd Dunn, Jim Rozynski, Gerard Moore, Luke Scott, David Hamill, Jack Burford, Matt Vowles (2008 President) Greg Friis, Simon Mapplebeck (2008 committee), Ian Carroll, Tim McEvoy, Mark Dowley (vc).

Seated: Adam Gillespie, Ben Jaenke-Cain, Matt Skubis, Chris Mihalopoulos (Capt.)  Richard Wenham, Hayden Dowley (Assist Coach), Paul Grentell (Coach) 

Absent: Matt Fowler, Joshua Barton (Sale, Vic), Ben Heffernan-Roper

• Of the reunionees a number made a big effort to travel back to the reunion. The travellers were  Matt Thompson (Canberra), Todd Dunn (Narrabri),  Simon Mapplebeck (Middlemount), Ian Carroll (Bowral), Adam Gillespie (Paraburdoo (WA), Richard Wenham (Melbourne), Matt Skubis (Melbourne) and Jack Burford all the way from Kilcoy, 
• Of the 2008 team, those currently playing include Sean Mewing, Gerard Moore, Chris Judson, Val Pope, Tim McEvoy (occasionally), Ben Jaenke-Cain and Chris Mihalopoulos at the Magpies, Matt Fowler is at Broadbeach, Greg Friis is at Springwood, Jim Rozynski and Luke Scott travel down to Mitiamo near Bendigo in Victoria and Matt Thompson is at Ainslie in the ACT. 
• A highlight of the evening was the presentation of Life memberships to Adam Gillespie and Ben Jaenke-Cain. Adam played 179 Senior Games for the Pies and was presented his badge by club doyen Kevin Kluver. Ben recently played his 150th Senior Game and his 2008 coach Paul Grentell presented his badge.  More details on these two new life members will be published in teh coming week
• Paul Grentell spoke about the 2008 premiership and in a lighter moment said there we three things he did not think he would ever see-- Mika owning his own Real Estate business, Val pope playing Reserves and Mick Ford joining the Victoria Police. It was good to see Mick make the journey as he was the ultimate team man and he recently coached Tyrendarra near Warrnambool to a flag and is famous in country Victoria for one of the great three-quarter time sprays ever—check YouTube for a look!! 
• Paul Grentell spoke of the 2008 flag and that his players were prepared to do the small things to achieve victory. They trained 3 times per week and made sure they did all the small things to be prepared. 
• PBC that year had x2 ex-WAFL  and x3 ex-SANFL recruited players in their team but Paul had faith in his side. He believed his team were fitter and faster and would wear the Lions down the longer the game went. The huddles at the breaks were huge and he said you could feel the energy from the magpie army. With Ian Carroll in ruck with a broken cheek, Sean Mewing a broken eye socket, Todd Dunn a broken nose and Tim McEvoy shoulder busted up again, he asked for a big effort and he got it as the Pies triumphed in a classic.
• And how could the Pies lose? --Ian "Easy" Carroll consulted a fortune teller in the week leading up to the match and was told the Pies would win!! 
• Club President in 2008, Matt Vowles recalled how the PBC president, apparently not the friendliest bloke,  would give him a hard time at league meetings, suggesting the Pies should not even be in the competition and would be easy fodder for the Lions. Matt said when the siren sounded it was the sweetest of sweet victories!! 
• Warren Selvage played in 9 Sherwood premierships and spoke about the 1978 flag. He praised captain-coach Lindsay Jacob who was a born leader and as tough as they come. The Pies were a young team but were fit and stuck together off the field.  In one of the matches during the season against Mt Gravatt, the scores were disputed and the Mt Gravatt goal umpire had the Vultures winning by a point and the Sherwood goal umpire had the Pies up by a point. It was proposed the match be replayed during the week and the Pies were unanimous they would play Mt Gravatt anywhere at anytime. Mt Gravatt declined the offer and the match was awarded to Sherwood. 
• Only Des Lashman, Warren Selvage, Paul Hope, Bill Peirce and John Judson attended from the 1978 flag. Maybe the reliance on Facebook to get the message out may not reach some of the older brigade who need more old fashioned contact methods like a phone call, letter or newspaper article to be notified of events.  Or perhaps having won 9 Premierships together, the reunions are too often?!
• Father and son John and Chris Judson celebrated their respective premierships and if not mistaken may be the only father -son premiership duo at the Magpies. 

Chris  & John Judson - both Magpie Premiership players multiple times.

• The Woodsmen enjoyed a solid win against tough opponents in Jimboomba on Friday night.  Having lost their opening 3 games, the Redbacks were on a 9 match winning streak and looking to make it 10 before top placed Woodsmen knocked them off.
• Irishman Sam Banim playing for the Woodsmen has kicked at least 5 goal of the year contenders this year and just knows where the big sticks are, he can do it all at ground level with dribbles, checksides, snaps and everything in between.  His latest effort wasn't even a surprise to his teammates as he casually slotted a checkside from the boundary line much to the disbelief of the opposition and crowd.
• Due to his work as a paramedic, Banim can't commit fully to footy, but if he did - he'd be moving up the ranks pretty quickly!
• With 3 rounds to go, the Woodsmen look unassailable at the top of the QFA Ladder, so start making plans for a big home final in a months time, would be great to get the Magpie army behind the boys!

McCarthy Homes Match Review - 4 point loss a very costly 4 points!

The Western Magpies have again lost a close game, this time a 4 point loss to ladder leaders and defending Premiers Palm Beach Currumbin Lions at McCarthy Homes Oval at Chelmer.

The 4 point loss was a costly one for the Pies as the 4 points they have missed on the ladder means it is do or die football for the remaining 5 rounds in a very even QAFL season. 

Before a supportive reunion crowd, the Magpies had them roaring as the they kicked the first 4 goals of the match in a free-wheeling opening 20 minutes. Jake De Winter had 3 of the goals by quarter time and with the Pies controlling the game it looked as if they would skip away. But as is the Pies want this season, they have failed to put their opponents away when they were well on top.

A quality opponent like PBC won't let you dominate for extended periods, but its important to stem the flow when they get on top and equally as important to cash in when you have the ascendancy yourself.  However, the Lions booted the next 7 goals and 12 of the next 13 goals throughout the second and third quarters to take a 39 point lead half way through the third quarter. 

Coach Brydan Morgan was not happy with his team's work-rate and at half time asked his players to tighten up, go more man-on-man and try to wrest control in the contested football stakes. His players responded and the Pies started to claw their way back into the contest. A sickening head injury to a PBC player halted the game for over 20 minutes while an ambulance arrived and the game was almost called off before getting back underway.  (the player in question is ok and was tended to by Magpies club Doctor, Dr. Greg Thompson) The move of Jack Goodall forward was a masterstroke as he provided a target and was able to boot 3 goals to get the Pies back into the contest. 

Trailling by 23 points at the last change and needing the first goal of the last quarter, the Pies soon found themselves 29 points down and a mountain to climb after the PBC Ruckman took possession from a throw in and kicked truly. The Lions were down to 18 fit players and played behind the ball in scenes reminiscent of the 2008 Grand Final but despite attack after attack the Pies could not repeat 2008 and were unable to reel in the ladder leaders. 

The Magpies had opportunities enough to win the game but often kicking targets were missed or the Lions were able to intercept and defuse promising Pie attacks. Decision making and basic skill errors were a problem throughout the 2nd and 3rd quarters, and then in the last when the game was there to be one - the Pies looked almost 'gun shy' to take their chances after the error riddled previous 2 quarters.

Luke Mitchell continued his good run of form to be a solid rebounding defender while his ground level mop up work deep in defence was a highlight. Jack Goodall started at CHB but he sparked the Magpies comeback when moved the CHF.

Riley Easton harassed and harried all day for another 10 tackle game and found enough of the football as well to be named the BG Award winner for the match. Tom Ielasi slipped straight back into footy mode after a month out with a polished display and he also shut down one of the Lions key players in a good allround performance. Ryan harwood was again hard and tough in the clinches and gave the Pies plenty of drive and booted a great last quarter goal to get the Pies firing. Jake De Winter was always dangerous up forward and he got off the leash early with 3 goals and then did not get many opportunities in the second and third quarters before kicking a further 2 goals in the last quarter to have the Magpies faithful roaring encouragement.

It wasn’t enough however and the Magpies again rue another one that got away.  There is a distinct lack of killer instinct in this 2018 Magpie outfit and they need to find another level to start winning the close ones.  Nobody who watches this side play football would question their effort or desire, however a willingness to step up when the chips are down needs to be developed in the playing group to tun close losses into close wins.

PBC coach Chad Owens rated the Pies as good as any side the Lions have played this year but while that is nice to hear it does not bring the four points the Pies craved. Honourable losses are mounting but they mean nothing as far as getting to the finals are concerned. 

The Magpies can get one back on Saturday when they host Wilson Grange while many of their finals rivals have a bye. The Gorillas will be a tough challenge and a dangerous opponent in a game the Magpies cannot afford to lose.

Western Magpies 4.0-24 | 5.3-33 | 9.4-58 | 13.7-85

Palm Beach Currumbin 2.3-15 | 9.5-59 | 12.9-81 | 13.11-89

WESTERN MAGPIES

Goal Kickers: J. De Winter 5, J. Goodall 3, A. Corrie 2, R. Harwood, R. Easton

Best Players: J. Goodall, R. Harwood, T. Ielasi, R. Easton, L. Mitchell, J. De Winter

Fitter Futures - Reserves Match Review

PIES RESERVES IN GOOD WIN TO KEEP SEASON ALIVE

The Western Magpies Reserves had a solid 15 point victory over the third placed Palm Beach-Currumbin to keep their finals chances alive.

The Pies fielded another strong team but after a dominant first half which saw them keep the Lions goal-less, the Pies again relaxed and allowed their opponents to get back into the game. In  a nerve wracking final quarter when the Lions closed to 3 points, the Magpies were able to steady and kick the last 2 goals of the match to seal the 15 point win. 

In a quirk of fate 2008 premiership player Val Pope kicked the sealer then celebrated with arms akimbo. Pope was in vintage form with 4 goals and was a solid contributor throughout the day.

Fellow 2008 Premiership hero Gerard Moore was also prominent, starting at CHF then winding back the clock to go into the ruck and he was a tower of strength in the second half and especially the tense final quarter.

Another veteran Peter Kilroy worked hard up and down the ground from a wing to spark the Pies early then work hard to stem the Lions second half comeback.

Youngsters Kurt Vine and Lachie Dennis were fine players with Vine playing well in defence and Dennis racking up plenty of possessions in midfield and across half forward.

Gareth Crawford had a non-stop display in the midfield and won plenty of contested ball for the Pies and Harry Marshall was strong in the last line of defence in his second good game in a row,.

The win keeps the Pies in the finals hunt and they will be keen to close the gap further on the leading pack when they take on Wilston Grange at McCarthy Homes Oval at Chelmer this Saturday.

Western Magpies              3-5-23   4-7-31     6-8-44       7-12-54

Palm Beach Currumbin    0-2-2        0-3-3        4-4-28    5-9- 39

Goal Kickers: V. Pope 4, L. Dennis, S. Kwizera, J. Austin
Best Players: K. Vine, G. Moore, L. Dennis, P. Kilroy, G. Crawford, H. Marshall

Cross Fit Disposition - Colts Match Review

COLLISON BOOTS 7 AS PIES WIN WELL

Key marking forward Finn Collison booted 7 goals as the Pies Colts had a comfortable victory over fellow finals contender Palm Beach-Currumbin. Reversing the early season result, the Pies saw off the PBC challenge with a dominant second half to have an emphatic 43 poin  win over the fourth placed Lions. The win consolidates the Colts in clear second place on the ladder, trailing Broadbeach on percentage.

Collison showed the benefit of a few matches in the Reserves to take some good grabs and kick a season high 7 goals. He had good support on the goalkicking front from ruck rover Lachlan Pearson, who kicked 4 goals.

The Pies midfield dominated after half time and with the defence also on top the Magpies were able to take control  and have a 5 goal lead at the final change.

Sean Ryan continued his good form to win plenty of the ball roving and half forward Bruce Reville used his pace to advantage to drive the Pies goalwards on numerous occasions. Ryan Cherry has come into good form with his second good match in a row to underline the Pies depth.

The Colts now face third placed Wilston Grange on Saturday morning in another test of their premiership credentials—a win in this match could set them up for a top place finish on the ladder.

Western Magpies.            2-5-17.   5-6-30   10-9-69    14-12-96

Palm Beach Currumbin.   2-1-13.   4-3 27    6-4-40.   8-5 53

WESTERN MAGPIES

Goal Kickers: F. Collison 7, L. Pearson 4, S. Ryan, Z. Lovell, D. Edwards
Best Players: F. Collison, L. Pearson, S. Ryan, B. Reville, R. Cherry

Coopers Friday Footy Review

Woodsmen lock in finals with 6th straight win

The Woodsmen took on a rampant Jimboomba side searching for their 10th straight win on Friday night and maintained top spot on the ladder with a hard fought 7 point win.

In what was expected to be a hard fought battle, the Woodsmen again came out strong to kick half their score in the first quarter, a trend suggesting that fitness could be an issue!

After taking a solid lead at quarter time, the Woodies went to sleep in the 2nd quarter and Jimboomba fought back well to close the margin to 3 points at half time.  The Woodies were well on top in the midfield lead by a vintage display from Chris Judson, while Andrew Thomson and Tim Green battled hard as a combination against easily the best ruckman in the competition.  Mitch Merritt was also a terrier around the contest, injecting himself into the game when the Woodies looked down and were getting beaten around the ball for a brief period, to win several contests and drive the ball forward at crucial times.  Despite a goal less quarter from the Woodies, maintaining a half-time lead was a strong mental edge doing into the break after a terrible quarter of footy.

Spearhead Matt Hockley received close attention from at least 2 opponents for most of the night and as a result wasn't able to trouble the scorers, but his work-rate and ability to find teammates in space and regularly bring the ball to ground was crucial up forward for the Woodsmen.  Continually presenting up the ground despite carrying 2 opponents on his back was a great example of team football from the experienced leader.

The opening 15 minutes of the 3rd quarter proved to be a slugfest with plenty of repeat stoppages and exceptional tackling pressure from both sides.  Initially the Woodies failed to take their chances, kicking 4 straight behinds before a goal from the Redbacks put them in front for the first time since early in the 1st quarter.  However, the Woodsmen responded late with 2 quick goals to livewire goalsneak Sam 'Irish' Banim who when he is available, significantly alters the Magpies attacking 50 with his speed, agility, pressure and goal sense.

A solid 3rd term with 6 scoring shots to 1 could have opened up a bigger lead, but the Woodies were only able to take an 11 point lead into the final break, and with Scott Matthews going down before half-time with a hamstring and some niggles in 3 or 4 more players including Will Lloyd suffering from a virus - the Woodies would have to tough it out.

Sure enough, Jimboomba kicked the opening goal of the final quarter to close the gap before another goal from Sam Banim extended the lead enough that the redbacks would require 2 goals to win it.  the Redbacks responded with a quick goal of their own thanks to some brilliant rebounding play off half back before a rushed kick out of a contest resulted in a mark to the Redbacks 35m out directly in front to put them in front with a few minutes left.  Despite having 4 goals on the board, the pressure got to him and he missed with the Woodsmen then able to work the ball forward patiently to create another opportunity up forward where Banim again pounced to kick the sealer.

The win puts the Woodsmen 2 games clear on top of the ladder and they mathematically can't miss finals and will host at least one home final after winning 6 straight.  They travel to defending Premiers and 2nd placed Zillmere this Friday and a win will ensure top spot is secure.

Woodsmen 8.8 - 56 defeated Jimboomba Redbacks 7.7 - 49

Best: Judson, Thomson, Banim, Roderick, Jackson, Mihalopoulous

Goals: Banim 4, Baldwin 2, Davis, Mihalopoulous 1

Gut Feelings X - A weekly collection of thoughts from influential minds deep inside the nest!

• With the 1978 and 2008 Premiership reunions on this Saturday there is a unique double. John Judson played in the 1978 Premiership and his son Chris played in the 2008 Premiership.  Both came through the Sherwood Junior ranks. Chris is still having a run with the Woodsmen and John , as always, is on hand to run water, do the boundary or any other job that needs to be done. John was named Clubman of the Year in 2011.  
• There is a photo of  the 1964 Under 11a premiership team in the club’s history book, “In Black and White” which features Warren Selvage, who played in nine Grand Finals for nine Premierships. He played in the 1973 flag then all eight successive premierships for Sherwood from 1975 to 1982. He also coached the Seniors to Premierships in 1981-82 Warren says most of the players who played in the Golden Era of ten premierships in a 13 year period from 1970 to 1982 were home grown products  and came through the Sherwood Juniors. 
• By the way, Warren funded the publication “In Black and White” which is a great read. Written by Tony and Geraldine Massey, it chronicles the club’s history from 1956 to 2011. Warren will still have copies for anyone who is interested and at a cost of $30 they are well worth the price.  If interested contact Warren via email on warren18s@netscape.net
• In addition, Warren and his brothers, Rod and Michael, also funded the club’s new honour boards and the main board was named in honour of his parents , Ian and Ailsa Selvage, who were both long term servants of the club. Ian was President for 9 years, 1967-74 and in 1983. and Ian and Warren were both awarded club Life Memberships.
• Morningside’s upset defeat of the previously undefeated Pam Beach-Currumbin last week has thrown the cat amongst the pigeons as far as the Magpies are concerned.  It just means the race for a finals spot just got a bit more complicated and that the Magpies‘ season is firmly in their own hands. The equation is simple—keep on winning, especially against the four other clubs vying for the final three spots in the finals. First place is out of reach, second place is out of the Pies reach but third place and the double chance is definitely a possibility for the Magpies.
• Great effort from an undermanned Woodsmen to travel to Maroochydore on a Saturday afternoon and knock the locals off with a patched up team in a 1 v 2 clash. Club President and Woodsmen stalwart Andrew Thomson probably blew the club's  phone budget with his ring around to get a side together. As Thommo suggested it was an example of the Pies positive club culture that enabled the Woodsmen to feild a full side then triumph by outscoring the Roos when kicking against a strong wind in the last quarter. The win keeps the Woodsmen on top of the ladder in the QFA Competition.
• A positive was that Nick Reed, who has only previously played Colts at the Magpies, put his hand up to help out and now get his name on the club's Commemorative guernseyas a bonus! (story below)
• Michelle Shepherd and Peter Wilmot shared the 2017 Club Person of the Year award and are tracking to repeat the award this year. Both are there every week to manage the Seniors and Reserves and ensure all is in place such as drinks, footballs, guernseys for the players and the myriad other jobs on game day to enable the players to play at their best each week
• As well this weekend's reunion the club is having a celebration of 50 years of senior football 1968-2018 on Saturday, August 18. The club has organised a Commemorative guernsey featuring the names of all players to play an open ages match for the club (Seniors, Reserves, Woodsmen, 3rds) and will also feature the logo of all three entities.

• The special guernsey featuring 980 names will be worn by the Seniorss and Reserves when the Magpies play Sandgate on August 18. 
• The guernseys are numbered 1-50 and will be for sale for $100.
• The club envisages that demand may be greater and extra guernseys can be ordered on the day of the reunion. 
• What a celebration of football this Saturday should be with three quality matches and the 1978 and 2008 Premiership reunions. The 208 team defeated PBC so there is added spice to the Senior match. The Magpies must start to win the big matches and  if they can overcome a wounded Lions team then it will go a long way to securing a finals berth.
• The resurgent reserves will be very strong and keen to avenge their narrow defeat on the coast. The Pies are seventh and the Lions reserves third but this match will pit two very evenly contested teams -for Des Lashman's team it is simple-- a must win match to stay in the race for a final berth. 
• The Colts are equal top place but second on percentage and they play the 4th placed PBC. The Lions prevailed by a narrow margin in the earlier contest and the Pies will be keen to reverse that result. 

PLACE PREVIEW - HUGE DAY OF FOOTBALL AT MCCARTHY HOMES OVAL

It is a huge day of football for the Western Magpies in more ways then one when the Pies host the ladder leaders and arch rivals Palm Beach-Currumbin at McCarthy Homes Oval at Chelmer in Round 14 QAFL action in front of a reunion crowd.

The Pies come off a bye and will be without several regular NEAFL players who have won recalls to their clubs. Out go Doug Lawrence (Aspley), Sam Copland and Mitchell Stallard (both Redland) and Billy Johnson to the Lions NEAFL team. 

In come Tom Ielasi after a lay off but he has 3 solid weeks of training up his sleeve and will be fresh, Brenton Saunders and Liam Dwyer return after getting their confidence back in the Reserves and Will Fletcher returns from injury.

Ielasi is a neat footballer with clean ball handling skills and good decision making in traffic and will slot nicely back into the Pies midfield mix. Saunders seemed to get his mojo back 2 weeks ago and found his goal kicking ability return and he goes deep forward on Saturday where he does his best work. Dwyer just keeps on putting in and will keep presenting in the key forward position and Fletcher provides solid defensive work and strong attack on the football. 

Skipper Drew Mitchell and Ryan Harwood were both back to their bullocking best last match to lead the Pies midfield and Jono Macanawai looked to have a new spring in his step at training after doing a truckload of work in the clinches. It is any wonder he looks tired at times as he carries 80 kg extra around all game as he always has an opponent on his back yet none of the umpires ever see the holding and scragging!!

Anthony Corrie and Jake De Winter returned to their goal kicking best against Mt Gravatt and Kale Reed provides a perfect foil and all three will need to keep the goal umpires busy if the Pies are to boot a winning score. 

The back six will again be tested by a strong PBC forward line and Aaron Highlands, Jack Goodall, Luca Winton and David Lewis will need to be at their tight, tough best to keep the Lions forwards in check. Luke Mitchell had a brilliant rebounding game last round and he will need to repeat this to set up many of the Pies forward thrusts.

The stakes are very high for the Magpies and they will be primed for a big performance in front of the reunion crowd.

QAFL Round 14: Western Magpies v Palm Beach-Currumbin at McCarthy Homes Oval, Chelmer on Saturday, July 21st at 2.00 pm.  

B:  Brodie Easton Jack Goodall  Luca Winton

HB:  Ryan Harwood  Aaron Highlands Matt Davis

C:  Luke Mitchell  Ben Jaenke-Cain Jono Macanawai

HF:  Jake De Winter Liam Dwyer Lachlan Woods

F:   Kale Reed  Anthony Corrie  Riley Easton

Ruck:   Dylan Adkins Drew Mitchell (Capt)  David Lewis

I/C:  Will Fletcher, Brenton Saunders, Aaron Maricic, Tom Ielasi

In: Liam Dwyer, Will Fletcher, Brenton Saunders, Tom Ielasi

Out: Doug Lawrence (Aspley), Sam Copland, Mitchell Stalled (both Redland), Billy Johnson (Lions NEAFL)

Genuine Garage Door Solutions - Reserves Preview

RESERVES IN MUST WIN MATCH

The Western Magpies Reserves begin their finals campaign 6 weeks early as they play the 3rd placed Palm Beach-Currumbin on Saturday. The Pies were narrow losers on the coast in their clash earlier in the season in a game they should have won and that is just one of the reasons they find themselves in 7th place on the ladder—losing 3 games they should have won!!

The Pies team last round was a very strong Reserves outfit and while they lose two key players in Brenton Saunders and Liam Dwyer to the Seniors the Pies team is still strong.  Also in is livewire small forward Sam Parker and young midfielder Sam Denys returns along with ruckman Monty Vine and stalwart Gabe McKinnon.  

The Pies backline again looks solid with Chris Hunt in great form and Harry Marshall returning to form with a confident display last match.  Zach Collison has been a revelation this year with sure and steady work across half back and they are sure to be joined by senior Premiership player Gabe McKinnon at some stage from off the bench.  

Jack Austin and Gerard Moore up forward are the talls and with Val Pope crumbing the Pies have some forward power. Ruckman Nathan Congram has been a tower of strength this year and with Logan Murray, Lachie Dennis and Gareth Crawford at his feet the Pies have the ability to win the midfield battles.

With 2008 Senior Premiership players Val Pope, Gerard Moore and Sean Mewing and 2008 Reserves grand finalists Sean McEvoy, Gabe McKinnon and Peter Kilroy in the side  and 1978 Premiership player Des Lashman coaching, the Pies will be geared up for a big effort to bring home the points as well as keeping their finals hopes alive for another week.

QAFL Round 14: Western Magpies Reserves v Palm Beach-Currumbin at McCarthy Homes Oval, Chelmer on Saturday July 21st at 11.30 am. 
 

B:  Kurt Vine Harry Marshall Sam Hartog

HB: Zach Collison  Chris Hunt  Peter Kilroy

C:  Sean Mewing (Capt) Lachie Dennis  Sean McEvoy (vc) 

HF:   Val Pope Jack Austin Sam Parker

F:  Sempitake Kwizera  Gerard Moore  Rory Johnson

Foll: Nathan Congram Logan Murray  Gareth Crawford

I/C:  Tristan Dowdy , Gabe McKinnon, Monty Vine, Sam DeNys

 In: Gabe McKinnon, Monty Vine, Sam DeNys, Sempitake Kwizera, Sam Parker

Out: Liam Dwyer, Brenton Saunders (both Seniors) Jeremy De Rooy, Matt Mazarolle (both unavail), Ethan Sivijs (Colts)

Anytime Fitness - Colts Preview

COLTS IN BIG GAME AGAINST FELLOW CONTENDER

The Western Magpies Colts will have a tough match when they play the 4th placed Palm Beach-Currumbin at McCarthy Homes Oval at Chelmer on Saturday morning.  Such is the evenness of the Colts competition that teams from first to fourth on the ladder are all on 28 points but the Pies  have a game in hand over the other contenders.

The Pies were narrowly defeated in a tight contest at Palm Beach in Round 4 and will be keen to reverse that result.

Coach Jake Fuentes has several forced changes with the return of big tap ruckman Samson Ryan, fellow ruckman Harry keenan,  small half forward Bruce Reville , midfielder Zane Lovell and half back Ethjan Sivijs all adding to the teams strength.

However this has been offset somewhat with Jacob Sheath, Sam Mehari, Ritti Batilimoyo and Jordan Bonney all missing so the ledger is probably well balanced. It does say something about the Colts depth that they can lose a number of good players then replace them with another set of good players and remain just a strong.  

The Colts also have Queensland under 18 player Sean Ryan, key forwards in good form in Finn Collison and Cam Ferguson and big improvers in Ryan Cherry, Jacob Aurisch and Aiden D’Roza in the side and the team on paper is still strong.

The Colts will start slight favourite on their home turf and will be keen to kick off a day of celebration for the Magpies in a positive fashion

QAFL Round 14: Western Magpies Colts v Palm-Beach-Currumbin at McCarthy Homes Oval, Chelmer on Saturday July 21st at 9.30am

B:    Jacob Aurich Chris Moloney  Aiden D’Roza         

HB:  Chris Jenkins (vc)  Whitlam Bishop (vc)  Ethan Sivijs

C:  Deng Arok  Zane Lovell  Dan Edwards

HF:  Bruce Reville  Cameron Ferguson Abdullah Haddad

F:   Sean Ryan  Finn Collison Jayden Johnson

Foll:  Samson Ryan Ryan Cherry Noah Resuggan (Capt)  

I/C:  Harry Keenan, Tom Slatter, Cooper Crowell, Lachlan Pearson  

In: Ethan Sivijs, Zane Lovell, Bruce Reville, Samson Ryan, Harry Keenan, Tom Slatter, Cooper Crowell

Out: Sam Mehari,  Ritti Batilimoyo (both injured), Jacob Sheath, Jordan Bonney, Charlie Thorpe (all unavailable), Oscar Prior, Mitchell O’Dea

Coopers Friday Night Footy Preview

A big weekend at McCarthy Homes Oval kicks off tonight when the Woodies take on traditional Friday night rivals the Jimboomba Redbacks in a 1st vs 3rd battle.

While the Woodsmen sit atop the ladder, its Jimboomba who are in red hot form after winning 9 in a row coming into this game including inflicting one of the two losses this year the Woodsmen have suffered.  That was a comfortable win by the Redbacks on their home patch a few months back, and its a very different looking side the face tonight in what should be a cracking encounter.

The Woodies welcome back a host of players, making selection very difficult for this week with competition leading goalkicker Matt Hockley headlining a quality list of inclusions.  Important midfielder Will Lloyd returns after a European holiday, Jamie Page returns to the backline, versatile defender/utility Josh Young returns after suffering from concussion last week while Tim Green and the livewire Sammy Banim return after being unavailable due to work and family commitments.

The Redbacks feature a solid core of high quality players through their midfield and in key positions, and the Woodies will be looking to neutralise their influence in what should be a very tough battle.

Youngsters in Tommy Roderick, Braydon Thomas and Alec Parsons have shown weekly improvement to be key cogs in an experienced outfit, all of them playing vital roles in the exciting win last Saturday at Maroochydoore.

Meanwhile, experienced heads like Matthews, Page, Thomson, Hockley and Mihalopoulous will make up a solid spine for the Woodsmen.  Batting deep in the midfield, the Woodies can call on plenty of players to have a run on the ball, and there is genuine scoring power in this weeks forward half.

As with any Woodsmen outfit, the defence is where they look most solid with the Young brothers ironically providing a youthful balance to an experienced back 6 featuring last weeks hero, David Jackson, the ever green Chris La Burniy and Woodies stalwart Matty Prior providing the perfect chopout.

Get down to McCarthy Homes oval for what should be a cracking game.

Woodsmen:

B: Stink - Burnsy - Trav

HB: Josh - Burnsy - Jacko

C: K - Juddo - Tommy

HF: ChrisD - Hocks - Shayno

F: BT - Mika - Irish

Foll: Thommo - Nessy - Sammy

Int: MattyP - Greeny - Lloydy - Alec

Place Premiership Flashback - 2008 Thriller!

The Western Magpies 2008 Premiership team will hold a reunion this Saturday July 21st when the Magpies host their foes of 2008 in Palm Beach-Currumbin at McCarthy Homes Oval at Chelmer.

The 1978 Sherwood Premiership team will also celebrate the 40th Anniversary of their grand final victory over Mt Gravatt with details on their victory re-produced HERE

The 2008 victory has gone down in Magpies folklore and reproduced below are two articles describing the victory.

Also overlooked is that the Magpies Reserves also played in the Grand Final and after a good start and a 4 goal lead were outplayed for the second half and were defeated by Aspley quite comfortably in the end. It was a disappointing loss to the Pies as the Magpies were going for their fourth Reserves premiership in a row.

Teams from Grand Final day in 2008 reproduced below with the two articles on the Premiership victory.

2008 Premiership Team

Backs: Matt Skubis Mark Dowley (vc), Greg Friis

HB:  Sean Mewing  Ian Carroll  Chris Mihalopoulos

Centre:  Val Pope  Tim McEvoy  Ben Heffernan-Roper

HF: Adam Gillespie  Joshua Barton  Jim Rozynski

F:  Chris Judson  David Hamill  Matt Thompson

Foll:  Gerard Moore Luke Scott Richard Wenham

I/C:  Jack Burford, Matt Fowler, Ben Jaenke-Cain, Todd Dunn

Emerg: Jye Spencer, Gabe McKinnon

Coach: Paul Grentell

Assistant Coaches: Hayden Dowley, Quentin Johnson

Runner: Sean Toohey

2008 Reserves Runners-Up

B: Sean McEvoy  Mick Ford  Jye Spencer

HB:  Gabe McKinnon  Brad Wright  Angus Graham

C: Luke Boulton  Luke Knight (C) Will Fozard

HF: Kale Reed  Jay Baker  Scott Clarke

F:  Curtis McNamara  Scott Musson  Peter Kilroy

Foll: Nick Williamson Matthew Page Reid Dobson

I/C: from: Blake McClennan, Cameron Thomas, Jason De Wever, Jake Magill, Dom Beer, Callum Saunders

Coach: Peter McClennan

Assistant Coach: Brian Millar

Western Magpies Win 2008 Premiership

Reproduced from Gold Coast Bulletin-- Saturday 13 September 2008

The Western Magpies celebrated their 2nd Premiership in 3 years with a stunning come-from-behind win over hot favourites Palm Beach-Currumbin in the Pineapple Hotel Cup grand final at Broadbeach today.

The Magpies trailed by 40 points early in the third quarter, but ran the Lions off their legs to register a thrilling 16.8 (104)-14.17 (101) triumph. 

It was the Chelmer-based Magpies’ second premiership in three years and was the perfect way to finish their four-year stint in Division 1 Pineapple Hotel Cup.

The black-and-whites had several heroes, however, with Richard Wenham the architect of the comeback, Gerard Moore assisting him, and Luke Scott providing the heroics at the finish.

It all looked so different in the first half, with the Lions – who had won 42 of their previous 43 matches – dominating but wasting opportunities to put the game out of reach. 

They dominated the first term kicking with the strong wind that favoured the Merrimac school end of the ground, generating 12 scoring shots to two and leading 6.6-2.0 at the first break.

While the young Magpies were surprisingly static in the second quarter, the more experienced Lions calmed chipped the ball around to milk the clock and kicked 2.2-3.2 for the quarter to maintain a strong advantage.

With James Drake dominating in defence, half-back Matt Fyfe mopping up anything that happened to get past Drake, and Korey Fulton lively across half-forward, the Lions appeared in full control.

The only worrying sign for the minor premiers was a couple of players cramping up in the windy but humid conditions near halftime.

They bounced out of the blocks with the aid of the wind again in the third term and peppered the goals. 

The Magpies had obviously made a vow to run and carry the ball at all costs and provided stiffer opposition, but only wayward shooting at goal by the Lions prevented the margin being greater than 40 points.

Midway through the quarter, teenager Wenham stood up to be counted.

Roving to 16-year-old Gerard Moore, who was hugely impressive at the bounces and around the ground, Wenham won three centre clearances and pumped the ball forward for Josh Barton to get on the end of. 

Barton booted three goals in as many minutes and when Scott joined the action a minute later, the margin had been whittled back to 14 points. 

The Lions hit back with a  goal almost immediately, but wasted three late opportunities to stretch the margin to 23 points at the final change.

They had sprayed 4.9 for the quarter compared to the fit young Magpies’ 5.4 and a game that had given little value for the 2500-plus spectators was suddenly very much alive.

Rozynski had been good all day but he stepped up another notch in the final term and 20 minutes into the quarter, the Magpies hit the front for the first time in the game.

The Lions weren’t done with yet – winning the next centre clearance and pumping the ball into the goalsquare. 

Rather than concede a behind with the margin just two points in their favour, the Magpies defenders tried to keep the ball alive, and Palm Beach skipper Matt Carroll got the hotly contested ball and put his side back in front.

There was plenty more drama left yet, with the Magpies winning the next centre clearance and Scott taking a sensational mark three-deep in a pack just 20m from goal on a 45 degree angle.

However, the big pack crashed down on important key forward David Hamill’s ankle, and the game was held up for five minutes while he was stretchered from the ground. 

A jittery Scott sprayed the shot, much to his dismay and the large, vocal contingent of Magpies supporters who had made the trip to the Gold Coast. 

The ball swung between the two half-back lines until at the 31-minute mark, Scott’s world turned rightside up when he crashed into a pack, grabbed the ball, and snapped a blinder to put his side three points up.

Both sides threw themselves at the ball with reckless abandon for the next two minutes before the final siren sounded on what proved to be a remarkable last 45 minutes.

The Magpies had kicked 6.2-2.0 in the final quarter and grabbed the glory. They could rightly point out that they are deserving champions because it was the Magpies who inflicted a 12-goal defeat on the Lions in the middle of the season.

Scott and Adam Gillespie finished with three goals and Barton with five for the victors, while Fulton kicked four for the Lions and won a points decision over tenacious Magpies half-back Matt Skubis. 

Drake and Brent Rhynehart were outstanding for Palm Beach, but their side did not have the fitness at the end of the day to match the young Magpies on the big Merrimac surface.

Scoreboard:

Western Magpies,          2.0,  5.2,  10.6,     16.8 (104)

Palm Beach-Currumbin, 6.6,  8.8,  12.17,   14.17 (101)

Goals, Magpies: Joshua Barton 5, Luke Scott 3, Adam Gillespie 3, David Hamill 2, Val Pope, Matthew Fowler, Matthew Thompson 1. 

Lions:  Korey Fulton 4, Matt Carroll 2, Darryl Dyson 2, Greg Pires 2, Adrian Hill, Josh McLoughlin, Nic Baker, Arnold Knight 1.

Best, Magpies: James Rozynski, Luke Scott, Val Pope, Chris Judson, Richard Wenham, Gerard Moore. 

Lions: Brent Rynehart, Matt Flynn, James Drake, Matt Fife, Korey Fulton, Josh McLoughlin

Article below produced by AFLQ Leading up to 2013 Prelim Final

The Western Magpies added an incredible chapter to their rivalry with Palm Beach, winning the 2008 flag.

They’ve been the heavyweights of the competition over the past decade, winning five of the last seven flags, and this weekend Palm Beach and the Magpies will add another epic chapter to their incredible history.

One of the most sensational entries in that history was the 2008 grand final, in the then Division Two competition.

The Magpies squad of that year had an average age of only 22, with three players under 18 in their ranks, and not a single player over 30.

Those youngsters had snapped the defending premiers’ 39-game winning streak earlier in the year, 

They went in as massive underdogs against a Palm Beach side that had dominated for much of the previous two seasons, and the Magpies had gone through the hard way, after a qualifying final loss.

That team included some Queensland footy stalwarts, many of whom are now scattered throughout the competition.

Mt Gravatt’s Luke Scott, Springwood’s Greg Friis and the Vultures’ Matthew Skubis all played in the decider that day, as well as a number of players who would go on to be 2012 Premiership players with the Magpies.

One of the youngsters that fronted up for the Magpies, Gerard Moore, is now leading the club as a co-captain for 2013.

Moore was in his first year of senior footy, and will never forget that first grand final and first premiership.

In the week leading up to the match, the Sherwood club invited former premiership players, including Ray Windsor to the club to speak about the opportunity in their grasp.

“They just told us about how they came from being underdogs all season to beating a side that’s supposedly unbeatable and they had a positive attitude and had that belief that we could do it,” he said.

The message that remained with Moore the most was the importance of treating an intimidating opposition just like everyone else.

“[They said] the hardest part about winning a premiership is getting into it,” Moore said.

“Once you’re there you’ve got just as much chance as the other side.

“It’s just 22 versus 22 and whoever wants it more will come away with the premiership.”

The young side did have some premiership players from 2006 in their ranks, and Moore said that helped ease the nerves as he went into his first senior final.

It was the first five minutes that were the most brutal for the teen, he said.

“After the first five minutes, everyone was buggered, but once the game went on,  it kind of turned into a normal finals game,” he said.

“That first five minutes of finals footy is the most intense of the year.”

For the first half, the Palm Beach powerhouse was having it their way, and led by 30 points at the major break. 

Coach, Paul Grentell, just told them to stick it out, Moore said, and that’s exactly what they did, led by Ray Poulter medallist Jimmy Rozynski, whose game went to another level in the second half.

“In the third quarter, we really turned it on and started to win the ball out of the middle and that’s when the game turned around,” he said.

“I think the general feeling was that we could do it.

“We knew it was going to be tough, but belief was always there and we just had to stay true to it and keep playing for the four quarters.”

And it took almost the entirety of those four quarters for the Magpies to take the lead, into time on in the last.

Enter –Luke Scott.

Scott lived out every player’s dream with the match-winning goal, which followed a dramatic final five minutes.

The dual-premiership player took a mark in the dying stages, in a pack that crashed down onto David Hamill’s ankle, requiring a stretcher and the game stopped for five minutes.

That five minutes gave Scott plenty of time to think about the importance of his kick, and he said those moments were probably too long.

“I had a lot of time to think about it and the pressure built up and I thought we’d lost the game (when I missed),” he said.

But, the footy gods had other ideas and fortune turned Scott’s way.

“As fate would have it, I got another opportunity and made the most of it,” he said.

“That’s what you dream about as a little kid.”

There was time for one more stanza in a gripping match, as the Lions won the next centre clearance, and Scott could only stand and watch from the forward line.

“It was very nerve-wracking,” he said.

“When they got that last centre clearance, I was up the other end and I was just hoping our backmen would stand up like they did all day.

“I was so glad the siren sounded when it did.”

Overcoming the side that had beaten them in 2007 after coming in as rank outsiders made it all the sweeter for Scott.

“They were definitely the form team of the year, they were so strong,” he said.

“Even being more than six goals down, we just kept persisting and digging in deep and fighting through the pain barriers and thought they would eventually crumble, and they did.

“It was like a fairytale.”

McCarthy Homes Match Review - 1978 Premiership

1978 Grand Final - Sherwood vs Mt Gravatt

The Sherwood side, led by Captain/Coach Lindsay Jacob, would take on Mt Gravatt (on their home ground at Dittmer Park) for what would be the 4th of six Grand Finals between these two clubs, spanning the period between 1973 and 1980. As history shows, Sherwood would not only be triumphant on this occasion (19.18.132 to 11.12.78), but go on to complete a ‘perfect record’, by winning all Grand Finals between the two ‘arch rivals’, during this period with 1978 being the 4th Premiership in the middle of 8 in a row from 1975 to 1982.  Sherwood also won 5 Reserves Premierships in this same era, including the 1978 Premiership. (Sherwood did the 'Triple Crown' in '78 also winning the U17's)

In the 1978 Season, the Mt. Gravatt ‘Vultures’ had again recruited strongly, as was their strategy over a number of seasons, whereas Sherwood again fielded a team that was made up predominantly of players who had progressed through the club’s junior ranks. Dennis Pelly, former Grogan Medalist and 100 gamer for Mayne FC, headlined the ‘Vultures’ lineup at Centre Half Forward. The task of blunting his influence on the game was given to Warren Selvage.

Sherwood went into the Grand Final, having lost just the one game during the season. That loss was to Mt Gravatt. The playing styles of the two sides was quite a contrast. Mt Gravatt were quite a long kicking and physically bigger side than their Magpie opponents, who relied on their youth, speed, fitness and disposal efficiency to wear down opposition teams.

One of the unique elements of grand final’s football in the SQAFA at this time is that the best umpires in the QAFL were always available to officiate. It was no different on this occasion with the game under the control of Tom McArthur (inducted into the AFL Hall of Fame, after 502 Senior games, 14 QAFL Grand Finals and being named Qld Umpire of the Century). 

Sherwood were quick to start and were never headed with Greg Butler, Lindsay Jacob and Jimmy Evans providing great drive out of the centre to a forward line where ‘Rocco’ Stewart, Billy Peirce, ‘Sammy’ Hodgson and David ‘Stellar’ McKellar and Pat White (named Best on Ground) were only too willing to capitalise on the many scoring opportunities that presented themselves.

Jeff Langdon and Peter ‘Cool’ Carpenter held sway around the ground and a very miserly backline, featuring Des Lashman (now playing in his 3rd consecutive grand final win), Phil ‘Casual’ Anderson, Wayne Mill, Steve ‘Barney’ Rendalls, Rob Rowlinson and Glenn ‘Gonzo’ McDonald made scoring extremely difficult for their opponents (Mt Gravatt finished with just eleven  majors for the match).

In the second half, with the game well within the Magpie’s control, Paul Hope, Gary Grant, Jonathan Judson and Rodney Mill stepped up to capitalise on their team’s dominance. As he had done for the whole season, Lindsay Jacob continued to set the standard of being relentlessly hard at the ball and drove his younger team mates right through until the final siren. It was a fitting result for a great coach and a great man!

SHERWOOD DAFC 1978 PREMIERSHIP LINE-UP

B: Rob Rowlinson  Phil Anderson  Steve Rendalls

HB: Wayne Mill  Warren Selvage  Des Lashman

C:  Jim Evans  Greg Butler  Graeme Hodgson

HF:  Gary Grant  Pat White Bill Peirce

F: David McKellar  Ross Stewart  Paul Hope   

Rucks: Jeff Langdon

            Peter Carpenter

Rover: Lindsay Jacob (Capt.-Coach)

I/C: John Judson, Glenn McDonald, Rodney Mill

Back: Robert Taylor (President), Scott Spencer (Manager), John Burkill (Head Trainer), Steve Rendalls, Rob Rowlinson, Peter Carpenter, Warren Selvage, Paul Beavers (Trainer), Glynn Stewart (Secretary), Michael Tierney (Trainer)

Middle: Des Lashman, Billy Peirce, Ross Stewart, Lindsay Jacob (Captain/Coach), Jeff Langdon, David McKellar, Greg Butler, Phil Anderson

Front: Gary Grant, Rodney Mill, Wayne Mill, Jim Evans, Glenn McDonald, John Judson, Graeme Hodgson, Paul Hope

Absent: Pat White

Coopers Match Review - Woodsmen retain top spot in gutsy win

The Woodsmen traveled up the Bruce Highway on Saturday for a rare Saturday outing, scheduled for 2pm - however after some typically horrendous traffic that summed up the week for the Woodies, the game actually got underway at 2:15pm after many players left McCarthy Homes Oval at 11am only to arrive at Maroochydoore at 1:45pm!

It was a tough match well before the ball was bounced as the Woodies had only 14 available players as at Thursday midday, and despite a Western Magpies bye, some inflexible rules meant many willing players weren't able to assist.  Thousands of calls, emails and Facebook pleas later and the Woodies had gathered the requisite 22 to take on the high flying Roos on their home deck.

Before we get to the match review, special mentions to Nick Reed coming in for his first Woodies game having not played any footy for 3+ years, Laurie Bere again answering the call as he so often does, Tim McEvoy dusting off the boots and Jordan Bonney suiting up after just one game back at Colts level after long term injury.  Not to mention Kale Reed, Tom Ielasi and Ant Estwick who attended the match to support and assist, as well as familiar faces in Bob Mathews and Chris Fozard who provided plenty of voice from the stands!  Last but not least Scotty Chisolm who did close to a 10 hour day driving from Toowoomba to be the trainer for the day, and Louie Batson who suffered through the traffic to come from the southside of Brisbane to be the volunteer goal umpire.  Support and dedication like this is what makes Sherwood Football Club the best place in QLD!

Most importantly, it was the Assistant Coach for the day - young Mason McEvoy who took control of the board at 3/4 time, and made some shrewd moves with the magnets to put the structure in place for the Woodies to prevail!  Well done to Mason!

In stunning coastal conditions, the cobbled together Woodies side did look strong on paper despite the difficulties in securing numbers, but in dry weather footy - there was concerns that the 22 only contained one player over 185cm against a tall Maroochydoore outfit.

The Woodies however started well to put early goals on the board for an early lead, with Jordan Bonney banging one home from outside 50 and Braydon Thomas hitting the scoreboard early.  However the Roos hit back with 3 straight to take a 5 point lead, despite the Woodies generally controlling possession and field position, but unable to find targets deep in attack.

The Roos then came out firing on all cylinders to kick 3 early goals in the 2nd quarter to take a 4 goal lead, getting on top at the centre bounce in particular and also taking full advantage of their chances having 6 straight on the board, including some quality set shots from tight angles.  However, the Woodies midfield stood tall with Judson, Ness and Curtis tackling hard and outworking their opponents, while Thomson relished the red football to take several contested marks.  Curtis in particular was getting off the chain and pushed forward for 2 of the Woodies 3 late goals to keep them in it at half time trailing 6.1 - 37 to 5.3 - 33.

Enter David Jackson....the evergreen 39 year old.  Formerly known as the 'Minister of Defence' in the early 2000s when he was a dominant player off half back for the Western Magpies senior side, Jackson turned back the clock with an incredible quarter of footy, regularly turning attack into defence with courageous spoils, marks, tackles, daring runs and pin point disposal as he single handedly turned the game in a blistering burst of football!

Jacko collected his tired looking teammates, put them on his back and carried them to a 7 point 3/4 time lead in a vintage display, but despite his heroic efforts - he couldn't do it all and it would require a 22 man effort in the final quarter to bring the Woodies home.

Kicking into a stiff afternoon breeze, the Woodies started positively in the final quarter but again couldn't find targets deep in attack, while the Roos played quick, long and direct football, taking advantage of the breeze to put the Woodsmen under plenty of pressure.  Scott Mathews, Chris La Burniy (playing as an undersized fullback), Tim McEvoy and Matt Prior in particular were tireless as they repelled the Roos regular attacks, while Thomson had stationed himself across half back to impact the contest and not allow the Roos talls a free hit at it against smaller opponents.

However, despite all their best efforts - the damn wall looked like bursting as the Roos put on two quick goals to take what appeared like an unassailable lead with a strong breeze behind them.  The Woodsmen midfield lifted however, getting on top in the hitouts and stoppage clearances for some rare deep forward entries.  The Woodies half back line then pushed up to lock the ball in as panicked clearance kicks from the Roos were regularly mopped up and pumped back in by the Woodies, before a repeat entry resulted in a scrimmage in the pocket when Mitch Merritt gathered, beat one and kicked a quality checkside that curled beautifully inside the goalpost to level the scores with 5 minutes on the clock!

With scores level, the Woodies again won a crucial clearance after 2 repeat stoppages thanks to some ferocious tackling to get the ball forward., however a quick rebound had the Woodies in trouble with wingman Alec Parsons caught in a 3 on 1 situation on the wing.  Simple formula, Roos win that contest and they go into a vacant forwardline and score to get back in front - Parsons had to neutralise!  However, forget that! Parsons attacked the footy in traditional Woodies fashion, bumped off two opponents, ripped the ball from a 3rd and broke from the contest to push the ball forward for the Woodies, spotting up a target across half forward in a crucial play.

The ball again bounced in and out, before a typically brave Tim McEvoy mark going back with the flight steadied the ship and another forward 50 entry resulted in Braydon Thomas finding space in the pocket to kick truly to put the Woodsmen a goal up. (despite calls from teammates  to 'just kick a point!!! - no doubt aware that any score would put the Woodies in front)

The Woodsmen then pushed Mihalopoulous back and played smart defensive footy with ferocious tackling and tight footy in close to force stoppage after stoppage and wind the clock down.  With just seconds remaining, the Roos had another deep inside 50 entry that somehow got out the back, and no doubt hearts were in mouths, but who else but David Jackson was able to apply a tackle to the Roos player as he took his shot at tying up the game only to miss everything.  Seconds later, the siren sounded and the Woodies enjoyed a fantastic backs against the wall win 10.4 - 64 to 9.4 - 58 to retain top spot on the ladder, a win all the more meritorious given a forfeit was a realistic possibility only days earlier!

Best: Jackson, Mathews, Baldwin, Curtis, Thomson, Ness

Goals: Curtis 3, Thomas 2, Baldwin 2, Mihalopoulos, Bonney, Merrit 1

Gut Feelings IX - a weekly collection of thoughts from influential minds deep inside the nest

• Four out of four ain't bad especially if three of them are over old rivals Mt Gravatt! It was a great day of football on Sunday if you are a Magpies supporter and in any case with the Pies wearing their indigenous guernsey and NAIDOC Day celebrations pre match and at half time it was simply a celebration worthy of our great game. The weekend also started with a comfortable victory for the Woodsmen to see them consolidate on top of the QFA Division 4 ladder and if you're true 'Blacck & White' the Pies knocked over the Dons 45 minutes after the Seniors finished off the Vultures!
• The Magpies NAIDOC Day celebrations with Welcome To Country from aboriginal elder and traditional custodian of the land Uncle Des Sandy and the Smoking Ceremony from another traditional custodian of the land Greg Duncan were fantastic and a poignant reminder of the  link the indigenous peoples have with the land.
• It was great to see Anthony Corrie and Mt Gravatt's Jesse Green showing respect to each other before the bounce but also during the Smoking Ceremony as they passed through the smoke. The players and umpires and the Pies Reserves all lined up in a wonderful pre-match ceremony.
• Torres Strait Islander dance troupe Zom Kolbe Kolbe entertained the crowd at halftime with a dance and the crowd was very attentive and appreciative of the music and dancers.
• The match was played in front of a good sized crowd and it was great to see a number of past players at the ground to support the Magpies. Maybe a few more Sunday fixtures could be scheduled if Sunday's crowd is any guide. 

• The Magpies started like a house on fire with a return to some free wheeling football which netted them 6 first quarter goals before Mt Gravatt got started. For some unknown reason the Pies put the cue in the rack and started to play more cautious possession football which allowed Mt Gravatt to steady and work their way into the game. The Pies were only 3 goals up at the final break but put the game to bed with a dominant last quarter.
• The following article appeared in Quest Newspapers Westside Satellite this week, flattering pic of Lasho!

• None of the Magpies back 6 were named in the best on Sunday but they are rapidly becoming a very good defensive unit and they work hard to get to the contest to help their teammates then run to create rebound attacking opportunities. David Lewis, Luca Winton, Luke Mitchell, Doug Lawrence, Aaron Highlands and Mitchell Stallard on Sunday were all good players and you can add Brady Allen, Stephens Mills and Jack Goodall to that mix when they are down back. 
• The Pies tackling was a highlight on Sunday and none better than Riley Easton who laid at least 10 tackles and did not fall off one tackle for the day. He also won the football plenty of times and was named the Pies best player.
• Speaking of tackles, the tackle laid  in the third quarter by Mitchell Stallard was a ripper and almost spit the Vulture's  Fraser Neate in half. The resultant spillage stopped a potential goal and won the ball for the Pies. To the Mt Gravatt player's credit, although shook up,  dusted himself off and returned to the fray soon afterwards.  
• Jake De Winter led the Pies votes in the Syd Guildford Trophy with 9 out of a possible 10 votes after he booted 5 goals. Other Pies vote getters were Riley Easton 7, Drew Mitchell 6, Anthony Corrie 3 and David Lewis 1. De Winter's 5 goals took him to second on the QAFL goal kicking ladder with 31 goals, trailing Broadbeach's Matt Fowler on 34 goals. 
• Luke Mitchell had several dashing runs out of half back early in the game which set up a couple of Pies goals. "Squirtle" certainly showed a bit more speed than he has been credited with and was the BG Award winner for the match.
• With a bye this week the Magpies headed to Yeronga Pool for training on Tuesday night . There was an interesting request from the Pies Conditioning Coach, Daniel Petch, who asked all players to wear speedos aka budgie smugglers--something to do with glute activation!! We might leave it at that!!
• In keeping with the bye weekend, Coach Brydan Morgan arranged for three QAFL field umpires to attend training on Thursday night and run through several scenarios for the players and help them understand the rules and how they will be umpired. The Pies hopefully will now get on the credit side of the ledger after seemingly getting the rough end of the pineapple in recent matches. 
• The Reserves had a great win over the ladder leaders to re-ignite their finals aspirations. With a plethora of players with Senior experience in the side,  the Pies were able to get on top in the last quarter to win a top class contest with the scores seesawing all match.  The depth the Pies have now will put them in good stead in both Seniors and Reserves as the business end of the season approaches. With the likes of Gareth Crawford, Lachie Dennis, Val Pope, Liam Dwyer, Logan Murray, Sam Hartog, Harry Marshall, Jack Austin, and Chris Hunt all in good form and Tom Ielasi and Brady Allen to return the Pies depth looks particularly healthy.
• The Colts had a comfortable victory over the bottom placed Mt Gravatt and the win takes them back to the top of the ladder. The Pies looked slick at times with rapid ball movement and they work hard to help each other. They were guilty of over using the ball at times but were never in danger after booting the first 5 goals of the match. Young ruckman Oscar Prior relished his chance in the absence of several of the Pies bigmen and Jacob Aurisch and Ryan Cherry are both strong looking footballers and were good players on Sunday.  The Colts depth is also strong and they will approach the latter half of the season with confidence. They will be keen to reverse their narrow loss to Palm Beach-Currumbin earlier in the year when they clash next Saturday. 
• The Woodsmen also went to the top of the ladder after a strong victory over Collingwood Park on Friday night. It was good to see youngster Matt Mazarolle boot 4 goals  after he was left out of the Reserves to make a strong case for a return next week. In fact, he did not have to wait that long as he was brought back into the Reserves on Sunday after Tom Ielasi withdrew with a virus. Matt took a couple of strong marks and kicked a crucial third quarter goal in the Reserves to make it hard to leave him out next week. 
• Competition leading goal-kicker Matt Hockley though had a rare night where the radar was off target, registering 2 goals 6 for the night and possibly a couple that fell short as well!
• The Woodsmen travel to Maroochydoore this Saturday for a top of the table clash, could be an interesting affair given the competition is meant to be played on Friday nights and half the team is unavailable for Saturdays!
• Colts Assistant Coach and Woodsmen games record holder Kiran Verma is what would be generously called a " footy nut".  "Special K" just loves his footy and loves the Pies. He has only missed about 3 matches for the Woodsmen  since starting in 2008 and until this year, regularly saddled up in the Reserves (30+ games) when they were short of players, often after playing the night before.
• Not to be outdone, he has also played this year for Yeronga and Griffith-Moorooka to help them out when they were struggling for players, especially at Yeronga to assist ex teammate and Magpie coach Sam Long. In fact when he played for Moorooka they were narrowly defeated -- it was the closest they had got to a victory in a season of heavy defeats so far. 
• The knowledge, maturity and love for footy and the club he is imparting to the Colts players is an invaluable part of their development as players and good people. 
• Tom Ielasi returned last week from a trip to the World Cup in Russia and he said it was good to be home. He enjoyed his time there and watched two of the Socceroos three matches but sold his ticket to the third match. He said Kazan was good but Samara was a dirty industrial city with not much entertainment and night life--in fact he used the word "boring" at one point.  He said one hotel he stayed in swayed and shook whenever a truck went past and all the plumbing was up and down the walls--not inside them!! Tom said Brisbane and Oz is a pretty good place to be!
• Good to see a few familiar faces running the water on Saturday with Will Fozard and Pat Garner running water for the Seniors.

• Also great to see Monty Vine, Sam De Nys and Tom Roderick also run water for the Reserves despite the disappointment of being left out of the Reserves team on Sunday.
• Tom has been in fine form for the Woodsmen on a wing and just keeps putting in on and off the field in a great display of "team first" attitude. 
• The Magpies have a big weekend next week with the 1978 Sherwood Premiership team celebrating the 40th Anniversary of their comfortable premiership victory over Mt Gravatt and the 2008 Western Magpies team celebrating their famous win over Palm Beach-Currumbin. Fittingly the reunion will be in front of a Pies-PBC clash which has all the hallmarks a ripping contest with the current Pies hitting form up against the undefeated QAFL ladder leaders and defending Premiers.
• Current players Ben Jaenke-Cain, Val Pope, Gerard Moore and Sean Mewing were members of the 2008 Premiership team and Kale Reed, Sean McEvoy, Gabe McKinnon, Reid Dobson and Peter Kilroy played in the Reserves Grand Final the same day. Current Broadbeach player and Magpie junior Matt Fowler was also a member of the Pies Premiership team. 
• There will be stories on the 1978 and 2008 Premierships in the coming week leading up to the reunion.