Coopers QAFL Wrap

From the QAFL Website, we bring you the Coopers QAFL Wrap (Credit Andrew Wiles)

Nine and three; did anyone pick this at the start of the year?

The Western Magpies train just keeps chugging along of late. Yesterday’s win over Broadbeach makes it nine wins from their last 10 games.

The stakes were huge for Broadbeach. It was another mini elimination final, and they started this week how they finished last week.

Klessens kicked the first for the Cats, but not long after that his day would be done courtesy of an ankle injury; a massive loss to the forward line set up of Broadbeach.

Following a low scoring quarter, Broadbeach were in front by five-points at the first change.

The second quarter opened up a little bit. The Magpies got their hands on the footy a lot more, but it was the Cats who were making the most of their chances.

In a three goal to two quarter, Broadbeach extended their lead to seven-points at the main break, but you sensed the Cats were just hanging in there.

The Magpies put their stamp on the game in the third.

They used the ball a bit better, they were getting numbers around the footy in typical fashion, and they were putting it on the scoreboard.

Two goals to Mitchell and one to Bain gave the Magpies the lead for the first time of the afternoon, and an 11-point three quarter time lead.

Broadbeach were out of petrol tickets in the last, as the Magpies kicked away.

They booted the first four goals of the quarter to put the nail in the coffin, before running out 34-point winners.

Nathan Quick was best on ground by a country mile for the Cats, and despite missing last week due to injury, Richard Wenham didn’t skip a beat across halfback.

They may have had to slog it out, but the Magpies can have a serious look at that second spot on the ladder if they keep this up.

Coopers are a proud 2015 Sponsor of the Western Magpies and proud partners of the Sherwood Football Club.  Next time you're down the club for a meal or to cheer the Pies home, be sure to support your team and reward your tastebuds, by drinking Coopers!

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Mack Truck Match Review - PIES WIN SCRAPPY CONTEST

The Western Magpies won a scrappy contest against a spirited Broadbeach Cats at Chelmer on Saturday, prevailing by 34 points, 12.15 - 87 to 7.11 - 53. The win consolidates the Magpies in third place on the QAFL ladder.

To paraphrase Steve Waugh, "a bad win is better than a good loss",  as the visiting Cats took it up to a Pies side who were off their game for two and a half quarters before the home side were able to break away late in the match.

The match never reached great heights as both sides were guilty of butchering the ball and it was only the extra class of Luke Scott, Matt Davis and Alex Dickfos that proved the difference. 

Broadbeach looked the better of the two sides in the first half and only resolute defence of Scott, Davis, back pocket Luke Mitchell and CHB Doug Lawrence kept the Pies in the game.

The home team should have felt flattered to be only 7 points down at half time. Broadbeach played a loose man in defence and the Magpies struggled up forward as a result. 

The Magpies were able to wrest control in the third quarter as they started to win the midfield battles with Drew Mitchell, Richard Wenham, Tim McEvoy and Callum Carseldine prominent ball winners and Dom Beer and Alex Dickfos starting to get on top in the ruck.

Dickfos was also good around ground with his marking and he sparked the Pies third quarter and then continued his momentum into the final term as the Magpies took full control to boot a further 6 goals to win comfortably.

The Pies defence was rock solid and Broadbeach's first goal after half time was late in the final quarter when the Pies led by 7 goals as the Cats finished with two late goals.

Redlands based Jordan Bain finished with 3 goals in a good return considering it was his first match for the Pies in 2015 after spending most of 2014 in black & white.

Luke Scott's decision making and reading of the play were both top shelf, Luke Mitchell's mopping up was good throughout, Matt Davis' intercept marking was a highlight and the defensive spoiling of Doug Lawrence was exceptional.

The Magpies now face their second 8 point game when they travel to play fourth placed Wilston Grange at Stafford next weekend. This is a catch up match from a washed-out round 4 match and despite a solid win over the Gorillas last week this is a new ball-game as coach Glenn Humphrey will stress to his players during the week.

Senior Coach Glenn Humphrey had this to say post match:

“We had to grind it out in the end, and really work our way through it, but we kept persisting with it and got a good win in the end.

“We had control of the footy in the middle of the ground, were getting it into our forwards quickly and had a few midfielders kick goals as well.

“Our use of the ball for most of the day was pretty horrible. We had plenty of the play we just weren’t capitalising on it and scoring goals. In the end we broke through and scored some goals.

Western Magpies 1.4 | 3.9 | 6.11 | 12.15 - 87

defeated

Broadbeach Cats 2.3 | 5.4 | 5.6 | 7.11 - 53

Best: D.Mitchell, R.Wenham, C.Carseldine, M.Dsvis, D.Lawrence, A.Dickfos

Goals: J.Bain 3, D.Mitchell, A.Dockfos, M.Hockley 2, S.Copland, L.Scott, B.Jeanke-Cain 1

Western Magpies appreciate the ongoing support of 2015 Senior Jumper Sponsor Mack Trucks

Mack Trucks is one of Australia’s largest manufacturers of heavy-duty trucks. Founded in the US in 1900, Mack Trucks are sold and serviced in more than 45 countries worldwide.

Australia is proud to be part of this group and to have celebrated 50 years of local Mack production on Australian soil in 2013. Every Mack truck built for the Australian market is built at our production facility in Wacol, Queensland. Our trucks are designed and built locally to withstand the diverse and challenging conditions of the Australian climate.

Mack Trucks keep Australia moving.

Mack Truck Match Review - Reserves Round 13 vs Broadbeach

PIES RESERVES SEND MESSAGE TO TOP TEAMS

The Western Magpies Reserves have sent an emphatic message to the rest of the competition with a 114 point victory over sixth placed Broadbeach on Saturday

A near full strength Pies were dominant from start to finish and a 9 goal second quarter blew the game wide open before finishing off the Cats as 20.17-137 to 3.5-23 victors.

Just five weeks ago the Reserves had not won a match but three wins in their last 5 matches and have them eyeing off a late run to the finals.

With a recent influx of players with Senior experience re-joining the team from injury and unavailability, the young players in the side who helped carry the team early in the season are improving each match and as a result are playing with confidence with the support of their experienced senior teammates. Coach Quentin Johnson has a smile on his face at last and while acknowledging he now has a good side was quick to praise the improvement of his younger group of players. 

Luke de Nys was in everything in midfield and he gets better each week as he gets more match fitness after an injury interrupted start to the season. Brodie and Riley Easton were both busy in midfield with Brodie being a key linkman and Riley's pace and tackling pressure winning him plenty of footy.

Jake Heard in his second game back from long term injury injected pace in the midfield and he booted 4 goals, the highlight a 50 metre goal on the run with his non-preferred right foot.

Another youngster in Matt Mazarolle in midfield was good both in the air and at ground level and young ruckmen Monty Vine and Jess Rigsby-Jones both did well against taller opponents to give Bryce Crossley, Ben Hooper and Logan Murray even chances at the footy and they all won plenty of the ball in the centre.

Up forward Matt Garland presented all day and took plenty of marks to continue his impressive form since returning from injury. Matt Thompson was creative but will be disappointed with a return of 3.5 for the match.

The Pies face another test this weekend when they again meet Wilston Grange, still third on the ladder, a must win match if the Pies Reserves want to stay in the hunt for a late charge to the finals.

Western Magpies 4.4 | 13.6 | 15.11 | 20.17 - 137

defeated

Broadbeach Cats 1.3 | 2.3 | 2.4 | 3.5  - 23

Best: L.De Nys, R.Easton, B.Easton, J.Heard, M.Mazerolle, B.Crossley

Goals: J.Heard 4, M.Thompson 3, B.Crossley, M.Garland, B.Thomas, J.Morton 2, A.Spasovski, G.McKinnon, L.Murray, R.Easton, M.Mazerolle 1

Western Magpies appreciate the ongoing support of 2015 Senior Jumper Sponsor Mack Trucks

Mack Trucks is one of Australia’s largest manufacturers of heavy-duty trucks. Founded in the US in 1900, Mack Trucks are sold and serviced in more than 45 countries worldwide.

Australia is proud to be part of this group and to have celebrated 50 years of local Mack production on Australian soil in 2013. Every Mack truck built for the Australian market is built at our production facility in Wacol, Queensland. Our trucks are designed and built locally to withstand the diverse and challenging conditions of the Australian climate.

Mack Trucks keep Australia moving.

Place Player Profile - Meet Sunday "Sunny" Majok Aneet

You can blame Western Magpies Senior Coach, Glenn Humphrey for the nickname bestowed on "Sunny" Aneet.  We can all see he is a happy bloke with a ready smile and obviously loves his footy and he bursts through the middle of the ground at lightning speed, but you see his proper first name is Sunday.

In typical Aussie manner, this was soon shortened to "Sundy" by the Senior Coach, and then it was a natural progression to "Sunny", and we were off and running (quite literally!).

Sunday Majok Aneet, now 21 years old,  has had an interesting journey before arriving at the Western Magpies this season to light up the wing with his blistering pace.

Sunny was born in South Sudan in Africa which has been in a civil war for the past 15-20 years. He and his family escaped to Kenya when he was 7 years old where they lived in a refugee camp for 3 years until his family were able to be re-settled in Australia in 2004.

The family settled in Toowoomba where there is a reasonably sized Sudanese community. Sunny attended school and won a scholarship to Downlands College where he excelled at Rugby and Basketball.  He also played Rugby League locally.

However he admits he was a troubled youth trying to find his way in a new country and at times found it difficult to fit in and was not sure where he belonged. As a result he found himself in trouble at school quite often.  

His family decided he needed to be out of Toowoomba and sent him to live with an uncle in Melbourne and he was drawn to Australian Rules and went to play with North Footscray in the Western Football League. He picked up the skills of the game quickly to become a good player and drew the attention of the Western Jets Under 18 TAC Cup recruiters and he joined the Jets in 2011.  The TAC Cup is the finishing school for talented young Australian Rules players in Victoria and the Queensland Under 18 team often play against TAC cup sides in the lead up to the national Under 18 championships.

Sunny then graduated to the Werribee VFL squad in 2012 and played reserves football there (called the Development League) when not selected in the TAC Cup team. 

He did the pre-season with Werribee in 2013 and was rookie-listed but due to family reasons decided to return to Queensland just in time for the start of the 2013 season.

He joined Mt Gravatt, then in the NEAFL, in 2013 and played with them last year on their return to the QAFL.

He was looking for a change in 2015 so left Mt Gravatt and joined the Western Magpies and has been one of the finds of the season, adding pace and carry to the Pies midfield mix.  He has been one of the reasons the Magpies are pushing for a top three finish this season in the QAFL, a marked improvement on the 2014 season.

Sunny comes from a non-Australian background and has trod an unusual path than most  AFL players but has embraced the Australian game and has been a welcome addition to the Western Magpies ranks this year.

Why Sunday — you  may have to ask him that yourself.

Place Profile - brought to you by 2015 Major Sponsor - Place Graceville

The fantastic team at Place have recently signed on for the 2015-2017 seasons as one of our valued club partners and sponsors, and as much as the club appreciates their support - Place will appreciate the club support in return. So for all your real estate needs, make sure Place are your one stop shop.

As an added bonus, Place will be providing further financial support to the club for every new listing - so make sure you tell them you're from the Western Magpies Community when you talk to them and support those that support you!

MAGPIES TO FACE IN FORM CATS IN DANGER GAME

The Western Magpies face a dangerous Broadbeach Cats outfit when they host the sixth placed side at Chelmer on Saturday.

The Pies come off a resounding victory over Wilston Grange while Broadbeach will be full of confidence after being the first team to lower Labrador's colours last week in a major upset. The Cats are 2 matches outside the five and will be gunning for another upset win as they face a weekly elimination final against the third placed Pies to keep them in striking distance of the finals.

The Magpies Round 3 win at Broadbeach opened their 2015 account and was the first of seven wins in a row. That was a tight tussle until late in the final quarter, so coach Glenn Humphrey is under no illusions the Cats pose a big threat and has worked during the week to ensure his side does not have a let down and are prepared for a tough contest.

The Pies have three changes to the side which defeated Wilston Grange last week with Redlands based players in full-forward Jordan Bain and half back Jack Goodall coming into the side and utility Richard Wenham recovering from injury after missing one week. Out are Ruckman Hayden Thick who is unavailable, forward Matt Thompson goes back to the Reserves to gain some match fitness after missing four weeks prior to last week and half back Sean Mewing who makes way for Goodall despite recent good form. 

The Pies selectors have opted for Alex Dickfos to support Dom Beer in ruck with Jordan Bain slotting into full-forward. Bain played most of the 2014 season for the Pies and was runner up in the QAFL goal kicking last year.

It was the pace through the midfield of Aaron Maricic and Sunny Aneet that sparked the Pies to victory at Broadbeach and the Pies will be keen to see them open up the Cats defence again on Saturday.

Maricic will be better for the run last week after being out of the side for many weeks while on Queensland under 18 duties. Both have been a little reticent to take their opponents on and once they gain the confidence to run and carry forward will be even more damaging 

They still need the grunt of skipper Callum Carseldine and the ball winning skill of Tim McEvoy to give them space to start their damaging runs. 

Up forward Joel Workman relished another chance and repaid the selectors faith with four goals and his forward pressure is vital for the Pies. Matt Hockley has done all that has been asked of him at CHF in the absence of the injured Tom Michael and the class of Val Pope complements them and adds to the goalkicking mix.

The back line has been miserly with the exception of the two Labrador games and if those two matches are taken out of the equation the Pies are averaging under 10 goals (58.5  points) against in the other matches.

Luke Scott marked everything that came his way last week and with the aerial strength and run of Matt Davis and Chris Hunt and defensive aerial skills (punching) of Doug Lawrence the back line will be keen to maintain that record.

Luke Mitchell has been in fine form as small defender then linking through the midfield and with the return of Wenham the Pies will have good defensive rebound.

The Western Magpies can consolidate third place on the ladder but cannot underestimate a dangerous Broadbeach outfit keen to take another big scalp and keep their own finals hopes alive.

Western Magpies vs Broadbeach Cats - Chelmer, Saturday July 17th @ 2pm

B: Richard Wenham - Doug Lawrence - Luke Mitchell

HB: Matt Davis - Chris Hunt - Luke Scott

C: Aaron Maricic - Ben Jeanke-Cain - Majok Aneet

HF: Sam Copland - Matt Hockley - Joel Workman

F: Val Pope - Jordan Bain (R) - Jak Williams (R)

Foll: Dom Beer - Tim McEvoy - Callum Carseldine (c)

Int: Drew Mitchell - Alex Dickfos - Jake Goodall (R) - Brady Allen

Reserves still a chance for finals action

The Western Magpies Reserves will field their strongest team of the year when they host Broadbeach on Saturday at Chelmer.

The Pies are still a big chance of playing finals football despite struggling early in the season and now sit 12 points ( 3 games) outside the five.  However, they have been building momentum in recent weeks and after last week's win over the third placed Wilston Grange and having played the top two teams twice already,  the Pies run home will give them a strong opportunity to win every time they take the field.

The Reserves outfit welcomes regular senior players in the experienced Sean Mewing and Matt Thompson to the side and they will no doubt be very keen to impress and force a return to the Seniors. Others keen to push for senior selection are key forward Matt Garland, full-back Sean McEvoy, the Easton brothers Brodie and Riley, midfielder Bryce Crossley and half back Jae Humphrey.  All have been added to the Reserves team in recent weeks which makes for a far stronger and more experienced looking side and provides exceptional depth for the Senior side.

Also likely to return after missing games are Jesse Pukallus and Alex Spasovski and another returnee to add depth last week was Matt Green and with youngsters Logan Murray, Matt Mazarolle and Nathan Morrow gaining in confidence each week the Magpies are well placed to continue their momentum with a late run at the finals. Murray played his best match last week and has a big upside and will be a player who the Pies believe will play plenty of Senior football in the future.  

Coach Quentin Johnson will no doubt be taking it one match at a time but he will also look at the big picture and will stress each match from now on is a mini-final and there cannot be any slip-ups.

With recent inclusions the Magpies Reserves will be a big chance to notch their third victory of the year.

The Run Home

From the AFLQ Website...

WESTERN MAGPIES

The past

No one really knew what to think about the Western Magpies early on in the year. They showed some really good signs against Morningside in round 1, but were disappointing the following week against Labrador. They got on a roll after that, winning their next seven games to prove they are contenders in 2015, especially after knocking off Morningside on their home deck. They have easily been the biggest improvers throughout the year, as their pressure game has ramped up, but would have been utterly disappointed to get beaten so comfortably by Labrador last week after such a strong showing until quarter time.

The future

It’s a huge couple of games against Wilston Grange coming up in the next three weeks, which will go a long way to in determining where they sit in the finals pecking order. After their Palm Beach game in round 15, it is a nice run home for the Magpies, playing the current three bottom teams in the last three weeks. If percentage comes into play at the end, those games could be key.

Luke Scott has had his own football at times this year. The biggest headache they have is which end of the ground to play him. They have also uncovered a few youngsters, like Sam Copland and Riley Easton, so the future is bright.

J-Roz Lights Up Country Footy

Western Magpies favourite son, dual Bill Peirce medallist and triple Premiership player Jimmy Rozynski is having a stint playing football in country Victoria this season and has the locals liking what they see from the Queensland hard nut.

After a few outings for the Woodsmen in 2014 and early 2015, Jimmy was convinced to play at Mitiamo in north central Victoria by a couple of old protagonists in ex-Palm Beach-Currumbin players Michael L'Anson and James Drake who had already joined the small town team.  Also joining them is evergreen and prolific QAFL goalkicker Korey Fulton.

The Palm Beach boys were asked if they knew of any other players who may be interested in playing and they immediately nominated Rozynski who joined the club a couple of games into the season. This also shows the high regard he has amongst players he has played against i some tough battles over the years.

Rozynski saw this as an opportunity to be paid for his obvious football ability and he will use these funds for a planned overseas trip with his wife later in the year. 

All four Queenslanders are FIFO players and it is a long day for them as Jim flies from Brisbane on Saturday morning, leaving his home west of Ipswich at 4am on Saturday morning to fly out of Brisbane to Melbourne where he coordinates with the other three who fly out of the Gold Coast.

They then pick up a hire car and drive the 2.5 hours north to play for the Mitiamo "Super Roos" in the Loddon Valley League which is comprised of 9 clubs from small towns/villages north and west of Bendigo.  

After the matches they then jump in the car and drive back to Melbourne to catch flights back to Queensland - with Jimmy arriving home at about 1 am each Sunday morning.

Mitiamo is in a wheat and sheep growing area about 50 km north of Bendigo and has a population of about 150, yet fields 2 senior teams, an under 17 and Under 14 team and 6 netball teams. There is a gate at each match -about $10 entry (and a printed programme!!!) - and local farmers donate a truck load of wheat or some lambs to the footy club each year  to help fund the club. Locals all purchase a membership package of between $100-200 per year to support the club as well.

Jim was an instant hit with the Mitiamo crowd as in his first match he managed to "run through" the opposition coach, ex Carlton and Richmond footballer Andrew Collins, placing him firmly on his backside, and as many Western Magpie fan will attest, with J-Roz puts a hit on, blokes stay hit!  They loved him straight away as we at the Magpies have loved the hard and fair way Jimmy plays the game. He has been among the best players in each match he has played but has missed a few recent games due to a hip injury. He was among the best players on his return from injury in their loss Saturday week ago to the second placed team which has the side in fifth place on the ladder. 

Jimmy was blown away by the support and the size of the crowds at each game as he soon realised that football is the life blood of many of these communities and is the glue that hold the towns together. In country Victoria netball has always been aligned with football and all clubs now are called "Football Netball" clubs and have combined committees. Netball is now as important as the football to these clubs. If you were a thief, then all you have to do is look at the footy draw, work out when the locals are playing away and got to work as most towns are deserted on Saturday afternoon as everyone goes to the footy and netball.

Once upon a time the farms were smaller and had plenty of farm workers but many footy clubs in the bush now rely on players travelling from bigger centres to play.

In addition to the Queensland connection there are 5 players from Melbourne also travelling to play at Mitiamo and several other players who are ex-locals travelling from Bendigo to play. This is a familiar story in many small Victorian country towns as jobs dry up, farms get bigger and populations move to the bigger centres. 

The Loddon Valley League is one of 49 leagues in country Victoria and there are another 5 leagues in southern NSW who all have similar structures. This shows how much football and netball is part of the fabric of life in country communities but the clubs in the small towns and villages are all starting to struggle for numbers. Many small towns have amalgamated  and leagues have been re-aligned in recent years and this is likely to continue. There is one club in West Gippsland that is now comprised of 5 small villages and are nicknamed "The Allies". 

There is no doubt that Jimmy will make an indelible mark on one small country footy club and in the future Mitiamo supporters will recall the exploits of that "hard nut" from Queensland who came down for one year and could really play the game. 

If you are interested in following Jim's footy exploits log onto the Loddon Valley league website and for a rundown of Victorian country footy log onto the "countryfootyscores" website. 

FAST START FOR MAGPIES LEADS TO BIG WIN

The Western Magpies set up a surprisingly comfortable 46 point victory over Wilston Grange with a sensational opening quarter that saw them hold a 25 point lead at quarter time after kicking against a blustery southerly breeze. The Pies won a vital match at Chelmer on Sunday, 16.11-107 to 8.13-61 to go to third on the QAFL ladder.

Despite the cold blustery conditions the match was a good standard played in front of a healthy home crowd. 

Both sides were missing key players, with the Magpies electing not to risk co-captain Lachlan Woods after a week out with injury and running defender Richard Wenham with soreness and left out winger Brodie Easton from the extended squad and brought in Workman and small forward Matt Thompson.  

After an even opening 10 minutes of frenetic football which netted 2 goals each the Pies broke away with 4 goals late in the first quarter, 2 from the recalled Joel Workman whose forward pressure and work rate was just what coach Glenn Humphrey asked of him. Workman was one of the Pies best in his first match back since early in the season and he finished with 4 goals to more than justify his recall. 

The Magpies pressure at the contest and support to each other was first class and their use of handball close in to open up play was a highlight. 

The second quarter was more of an arm wrestle but the Pies withstood everything the Gorillas threw at them and went in at half time 6 goals up. 

The visitors snapped 2 quick goals immediately after halftime to reduce the lead and looked to be working their way back into the match. The Pies back line was under a lot of pressure but withstood the barrage with Luke Scott, Matt Davis, Sean Mewing and Luke Mitchell all working overtime to keep Grange at bay. 

Luke Scott was in sensational form as he took over 20 marks across half back in a dominant display. His reading of the play was exceptional and his clean ball handling and decision making was a highlight of the Pies win.

Val Pope, Sunny Aneet and Ben Jaenke-Cain provided plenty of drive from the midfield and forward pressure applied by Workman,  full forward Alex Dickfos and small forward Jak Williams netted goals which allowed the Pies to go into the last change still ahead by 33 points.

The Magpies largely controlled the last quarter to extend their lead to the final margin of 46 points. 

Dickfos joined Workman with 4 goals, Dom Beer nullified the taller Grange ruckmen and Sean Mewing had his best game of the season with clean handling and plenty of rebound football. Luke Mitchell's attack on the football and linkage out of defence just gets better each match and the return of Aaron Maricic also added to the Pies midfield dominance.

The Magpies host Broadbeach at Chelmer next Saturday and cannot take them lightly after a hard fought win earlier in the year and the Cats exceptional form last week toend ladder leader Labrador's unbeaten run.

Glenn Humphrey – Western Magpies

“In all honestly, I don’t get the game today. It was completely different to how I thought it was going to be, but we were happy we were able to get the ball on the outside and I thought we used the ball a bit better than them.

“When we did get it on the outside, we linked up a bit better, but it was hard work, and the boys worked their way through it.

“Watching the way they switch the ball, and get over to the open side, we made a conscious effort to stop them being able to do that and move the ball through our numbers.”

Western Magpies             6.4 - 40 | 9.10 - 64 | 12.10 - 82 | 16.11 - 107

defeated

Wilston Grange Gorillas    2.3 - 15 | 4.4 - 28 | 7.7 - 49 | 8.13 - 61

Best: L.Scott, L.Mitchell, M.Davis, J.Workman, V.Pope, M.Aneet

Goals: A.Dickfos, J.Workman 4, S.Copland, M.Thompson, V.Pope 2, B.Jeanke-Cain, J.Williams 1

Reserves post promising win

The Western Magpies Reserves had an important win over third placed Wilston Grange at Chelmer on Sunday and with the side now nearing a full list to choose from are not without a chance to make a late charge for the finals, despite a slow start to the year. The Pies upset their more fancied rivals by 23 points, winning  13.12-90 to 10.7-67 and restoring much needed confidence to the playing group

It was the Pies biggest score for the season and after a slow first quarter the Pies were able to work their way back into the match to trail by 7 points at halftime and then wrested a lead of 7 points at the last change before taking control in the last quarter to run out comfortable victors.

Coach Quentin Johnson was disappointed with his side's intensity in the first quarter and at quarter time he asked them to apply pressure at the tackle and the contest and his team responded. They also used the ball better, worked hard to help teammates and as result were able to gradually get on top.

Young midfielder Logan Murray had his best game for the Pies with a non stop display which netted two long goals, Sean McEvoy controlled the defence, Matt Green was busy all match on his return after missing a few matches, Brodie Easton worked hard in midfield to keep his name in front of the Senior selection committee and Jadan Morton put in his usual consistent display in ruck and across half forward.

Youngster Riley Easton made the decision to stick with senior football this year and will forego a chance at an Under 17 premiership and his forward pressure and three goals were major factors in the Pies working their way into the match.

Jake Heard injected pace and run into the side on return after a long injury lay-off and finished with two goals, Ben Hooper had plenty of the ball  and Matt Garland was also influential up forward with three goals. 

The Magpies have now played the three top sides a second time in the Reserves competition and with an almost full list to select from they will be every chance of victory each time they take the field for the remainder of the year and can make a late charge for finals.

Best: L.Murray, M.Green, S.McEvoy, J.Morton, R.Easton, B.Easton

Goals: M.Garland, R.Easton 3, L.Murray, J.Heard 2, M.Mazerolle, J.Morton, B.Easton

KEY INCLUSIONS FOR BIG SUNDAY CLASH

The Western Magpies have named an extended squad for their big match against fellow finals contender Wilston Grange at Chelmer on Sunday.

In what shapes as a classic 8 point encounter, the fourth placed Magpies take on the third placed Gorillas in a crucial battle that has the potential to shape the makeup of the final 5.

Into the home side comes Co-Captain Lachlan Woods, who resumes after missing through injury, QLD U/18 speedster Aaron Maricic, small forward Matt Thompson after a 3 week medical stint in the Soloman Islands and hard working half forward Joel Workman after good recent Reserves form.

The only official omission is 16 year old Riley Easton who has now reached his limit of senior footy if he wishes to be eligible for Under 17 finals (not a great rule if you want to encourage young players into senior football, however with the U/17's undefeated, the youngster understandably wants to be part of a Premiership tilt with his mates).

The return of Maricic will be a big boost, as he brings much needed pace to a team strong in contested football, with the Pies at times being made to look slow last week against the Tigers.

Speedster Majok Aneet on the opposite wing will gain confidence from the return of Maricic, as they have worked brilliantly together in the past to set the Pies alight from the midfield with their bursts of speed and skill.

Thompson will be primed for a big game against the Gorillas, having a good record against them over many years, including several big bags of goals - so he will be a welcome addition to the forward mix.

Doug Lawrence will have to be on his guard against young Grange livewire and Rising Star Lenny Christie who kicked 5 on debut vs the Panthers last week, but without underestimating the youngster, Lawrence should be safe in the comfort that he isn't a 200+cm former number 1 draft pick with 200+ AFL games to his name like his opponent vs the Tigers last outing.

The versatile Luke Scott may be called upon to play at both ends, after a quality sowing last week in defence trying to stem the Tiger onslaught.  Chris Hunt was also another good player last week, and will be a key player again for the Pies.

After the opening quarter last week, the forward line was starved of opportunities but expect Sunday to be different with Alex Dickfos looking for more chances deep forward and a possible move of Brady Allen to CHF, the Pies will be particularly mobile in the forward half.

Ruckmen Dom Beer and Hayden Thick have been good, and will be expected to continue to give the Magpie midfield first use of the footy more often than not.  Lachlan Woods hardness around the contest was missing last week, as was the 2 way running of Tom Ielasi, particularly his defensive efforts on opposition premier onballers.  Drew Mitchell and Callum Carseldine were unable to continue their brilliant form last week, but don't expect them to be down in consecutive weeks, so expect them to bounce back strongly against a dangerous Gorilla midfield.

With Val Pope in good form, the depth of the Magpie midfield will be hoping to get on top early to give the home team an early advantage.

There is no disguising the fact that while the Tigers are a quality outfit, the Magpies were particularly poor after quarter time last week and coach Glen Humphrey will be stressing to his charges that they need to put  that behind them and refocus on the job at hand on sunday if they are to emerge victorious in a vital clash for both sides.

This should be a cracking game between two traditional rivals and will be well worth getting down for a look.  Be sure to get there early, as a biug home crowd is expected, so reserve your place under the Place Graceville marquees, enjoy one of the famous pork rolls and a Coopers and get ready for some high quality local Sunday footy!

Western Magpies vs Wilston Grange Gorillas - Sunday July 12 - Chelmer @ 2pm

B: Richard Wenham - Doug Lawrence - Luke Mitchell

HB: Matt Davis - Chris Hunt - Sean Mewing

C: Aaron Maricic - Ben Jeanke-Cain - Majok Aneet

HF: Val Pope - Brady Allen - Luke Scott

F: Sam Copland - Alex Dickfos - Jak Williams (R)

Foll: Dom Beer - Lachlan Woods (C) - Callum Carseldine (C)

Int From: Drew Mitchell - Tim McEvoy - Hayden Thick - Brodie Easton - Matt Hockley - Matt Thompson - Joel Workman

Reserves nearing full strength

The constantly improving Western Magpies Reserves will be confident of a good showing on Sunday at Chelmer against Wilston Grange Gorillas after again showing improved form with a strong finish against the ladder leading Labrador Tigers last week.  The Pies finished full of running in the latter part of the game last week, picking up from recent improved performances and a more experienced lineup.

The Pies will again have several key inclusions for the match and for the first time in 2015, selectors have an almost full list of available player to pick from, with several players now likely to be unlucky to miss out.

Inclusions will include tough half back / midfielder Luke De Nys, small forward Jake Fuentes and lively half forward Matt Green.  Another possible starter pending a medical clearance, will be speedster Jake Heard who will be chomping at the bit to return to footy after an extended period of injury including most of the 2014 season and the 2015 season to date.

The Senior lineup has also named an extended bench, with those missing out falling back to the reserves and the experienced Matt Garland will be better for the run after his return from long term injury last week vs Labrador.

The Magpies will be eager to test the third placed Gorillas outfit, with Sean McEvoy adding steel to the defence after an outstanding start to the year in Senior football, and Gabe McKinnon in superb form since his return.  Bryce Crossley and Jae Humphrey have also played plenty of senior football in 2015 and add class and experience to a young Magpie outfit keen to cause some headaches in the second half of the year.

Rob Mohr was solid in the ruck last week, and up forward Jake Fuentes will add pace to complement the long kicking Green and key forward / utility Jadan Morton.

Hunter Heath and Ben hooper are both returning to form in the midfield, so the Magpies are now fielding their strongest team this season and will be primed to upset their more fancied rivals.

MAGPIES VS GORILLAS ON SUNDAY - A CLASSIC 8 POINT GAME

This week the fourth placed Magpies take on the third placed Wilston Grange Gorillas at Chelmer on Sunday in a match that has the potential to play a major role in the relative fortunes of both clubs.  Each team is well placed to play finals football after missing finals action in the 2014 QAFL.  Where they may finish in the final five is still in dispute with 2nd and 3rd place (and the double chance)  a three way shoot out between the Magpies, Mornningside and Grange.

The Pies have a 7-3 record, while Grange are 8-2.  However the Pies have already encountered the rampaging Labrador Tigers twice, as well as last years undefeated Premiers twice.  With this in mind, playing the Gorillas twice over the next three weeks will be crucial in shaping the fortunes of the Pies for the year, with percentage also likely to play an important role.

The form of both the Pies and Gorillas looks very similar, with little separating the sides on paper, both with recent convincing wins over Morningside in consecutive weeks.

The Magpies have had a light week on the track with several players pulling up sore after two consecutive heavily contested matches, but will be hoping to bounce back at home this week in front of an expected large home crowd on Sunday.  Grange also had a tough hit out last week in the strong win over the Panthers.

The Magpies 2015 season has been largely built on home grown talent with augers well for the future of the club in future years of the QAFL, especially with the Sherwood Magpies Div 1 U/17 side currently sitting undefeated and a number of young stars already performing well in the seniors.  The neighbouring western suburbs team (a combined Kenmore/Jindalee outfit) is also fifth on the Division 1 table, which bodes well for the future of the Western Magpies as the sole representative from the west of Brisbane in the QAFL.

All local supporters with an affiliation for the Western Magpies, Sherwood or the former Western Districts outfit are encouraged to come down to Chelmer on Sunday to enjoy a high standard QAFL contest between two of Brisbane's traditional clubs and great rivals over many years.

CALLING ALL MAGPIE SUPPORTERS

All Western Magpies, Sherwood Magpies and other local footy supporters are urged to get down to the Nest on Sunday to support the Western Magpies as they take on the Wilston Grange Gorillas on Sunday in a must win home clash.

The Pies currently sit 4th on the ladder behind the 3rd placed Gorillas and this clash is a calssic 8 point game with the potential to shape the finals.  The winner will be in the box seat for a 2nd or 3rd place finish, to seal a double chance, while for the loser it will make it very difficult to finish higher than 4th.

The Magpies will be licking their wounds after last weeks defeat at the hands of ladder leaders Labrador, while Grange enjoyed their first win over Morningside in 30 years on Saturday.

In what promises to be an absorbing, high quality and hard fought encounter in local state league footy, some vocal home crowd support could give the Magpies the edge they need to bring home the crucial 4 points!

DEJA VU FOR MAGPIES

It was a case of "deja vu" for the Western Magpies as they suffered their second large defeat to undefeated ladder leaders Labrador Tigers  on Sunday going down by 90 points, 20.13 - 133 to 6.7 - 43.

The Tigers are certainly the stand out side in the QAFL this year as they weathered a frenetic first quarter from the Pies to take control of the match in the second quarter then run over a tiring black and white team in the second half.

Before a good crowd at Labrador the Magpies were on top early in a high quality first quarter to lead by 17 points at quarter time. 

The Tigers hit back quickly in the second quarter with three quick goals and then in an arm wrestle for the remainder of the quarter, managed a 2 goal lead going into half time.

The Magpies had controlled the stoppages early and were getting first use of the footy from the ruck contests but the home side lifted and with growing confidence and several speedsters providing outside run were able to get back into the contest.

Doug Lawrence had the better of 200+ cm ex-AFL big man Josh Fraser for a quarter and a half but as the home side gained control and pumped the football forward the height and size of Fraser proved to be too big an obstacle for Lawrence to overcome. Fraser ended up with 10 goals and it is the first time this season that Lawrence has lowered his colours.

The Tigers completely dominated the second half, kicking 14 goals to one against the Pies who tired noticeably, possibly as a result of a tough contest the week before (Morningside also stopped in the last quarter on Saturday). Labrador controlled the football well when in possession and had more run in the second half than the Magpies. 

The half back line of Luke Scott, Matt Davis and Chris Hunt were under the pump often but worked tirelessly to repel the Tiger advances, especially in the second half. Scott was impressive with numerous intercept marks and Hunt had plenty of run out of defence.

Hayden Thick won the hit outs to nullify the Labrador big men and Val Pope kept running hard in midfield all match before being felled with an elbow after kicking the ball late in the game.

Matt Hockley in his first senior match this year across half forward kept presenting all match and Luke Mitchell also worked hard mopping up in defence. 

The Magpies now slip to fourth on the ladder on percentage and will need to lick their wounds and pride before bouncing back in a crucial match at home next Sunday against third placed Wilston Grange.  This is a virtual 8 point match as the winner will be a front runner for a top three finish on the ladder.

Glenn Humphrey – Senior Coach

“We lost control at the stoppages after quarter time, and once they get it on the outside and get running they are pretty hard to shut down.

“In the first quarter we just controlled the stoppages and controlled the football, if we have the control of the football they can’t use it and they can’t get out and run and spread. We did that well early but we fell off the boil after that.

“We have just got to learn to sustain it for a lot longer periods, that’s all.”

Western Magpies     4.2 - 26 | 5.2 - 32 | 6.6 - 42 | 6.7 - 43

defeated by

Labrador Tigers       1.3 - 9 | 6.8 - 44 | 12.8 - 80 | 20.13 - 133

Best: C.Hunt, M.Davis, L.Scott, M.Hockley, H.Thick, V.Pope

Goals: S.Copland 2, D.Mitchell, A.Dickfos, L.Mitchell, B.Easton 1

Poor first half costly for Reserves

A poor first half proved costly for the Western Magpies Reserves at Labrador on Sunday, trailing by 9 goals against the ladder leaders at half time. The Pies lifted in the second half to outscore the Tigers and finished with a dominant last quarter before going down  16-17-113 12 to 8.6-54. 

The young Pies allowed Labrador to dictate terms of play in the first half and were  punished on turnovers as the Tigers scored many goals from disposal errors from the Pies.  

Coach Quentin Johnson challenged his players at half time to play tighter and more contested football and they responded to match their more highly fancied opponents after half time. He was happy with the way his players responded to the challenge.

Young midfielder Matt Mazarolle continues to grow in stature with another fine game and Gabe McKinnon was solid across half back and is yet to play a bad game this season. On-baller Hunter Heath had his best game for the year and ruck man Rob Mohr also competed well and was rewarded with 2 goals. Joel Workman was hard at the contest all match and also finished with 2 goals and Matt Garland's timing was out across half forward early, but he worked his way into the match in a pleasing return from a long term injury.  

PIES TO TACKLE LADDER LEADERS IN SUNDAY SHOWDOWN

The Western Magpies are all set for their big clash against undefeated ladder leaders Labrador  Tigers on the Gold Coast on Sunday. The Pies will be aiming to avoid the traps of their last encounter with Labrador, where they put in a good showing vs undefeated 2014 Premiers Morningside in Round 1, only showing up the following week against the Tigers, expecting the same output, but minus the effort.  This attitude resulted in a comprehensive football lesson from the well drilled Labrador side in Round 2, and this time the Pies will be switched on.

Labrador were an somewhat of an unknown quantity in Round 2, with rumours of strong recruiting and a new gameplan,  but the Tigers soon established their credentials as one of the flag favourites as they ran riot at Chelmer and haven't looked back.

Since then, the rejuvenated Magpies haven't dropped a game and with a midfield has regularly been on top and a miserly defence, the Pies will be keen to square the ledger. The forwards were starved of goal kicking opportunities in Round 2, but the entire Pies team will be keen to make amends for that embarrassing display.

This Sunday the Magpies will use last week's big victory over Morningside as a catalyst for a big match to try and inflict Labrador's first defeat of the 2015 season.

There have been 3 forced changes to the line-up with Co-captain Lachlan Woods  (shoulder) and CHF Tom Michael (ankle) both out with injury and consistent midfielder Tom Ielasi departing for Europe on a long planned trip.

In comes the experienced Matt Hockley after impressive performances in the Reserves, exciting young small forward Riley Easton and dual premiership half back Sean Mewing after missing several matches with injury.

The Magpies have developed a defensive steel to their play this season and have gained a reputation in the QAFL as being strong at the contested football. This aspect of their game deserted them in the first match against the Tigers so expect a big improvement on Sunday.

The Pies must also assume that ex-AFL heavyweights Josh Fraser and Matthew Lappin will line up for the Tigers, which will add to the task, but all players in black & yellow on Sunday will command respect.

The Magpies defensive unit has been exceptional in most matches this season with Matt Davis and Doug Lawrence  arguably the top two in William Pierce Medal voting at present and with the run of Chris Hunt and the tenacity and tackling pressure of Round 10 Syd Guildford Trophy Nominee Richard Wenham they will be keen to stifle the Tiger forwards. 

The Pies will miss Lachlan Woods and Tom Ielasi in the middle but Callum Carseldine arguably leads the contested footy count in the QAFL and Drew Mitchell and Tim McEvoy have also enjoyed good matches in recent weeks. The long kicking of Brady Allen who can cover forward and back and the speed of Majok Aneet through the middle of the ground also adds firepower for the Magpies.  

Hayden Thick was at fullback last time these sides met but he now adds spice to the Pies ruck division and with Dom Beer has been giving the smaller brigade plenty of football from the centre bounces. 

Key forward Alex Dickfos has been in form and will pose more of a problem for the Tigers defenders and with youngster Sam Copland having more experience of what is required at this level the Pies have greater options up forward.  Add the versatility of Luke Scott and class of Val Pope and the Pies will be confident of causing another major upset.

Western Magpies vs Labrador Tigers - Cooke Murphy Oval, Sunday July 5 @ 2pm

B: Richard Wenham - Doug Lawrence - Luke Mitchell

HB: Matt Davis - Chris Hunt - Sean Mewing

C: Brady Allen - Ben Jaenke-Cain - Majok Aneet

HF: Val Pope - Alex Dickfos - Luke Scott

F: Sam Copland - Matt Hockley - Jak Williams (R)

Foll: Dom Beer - Tim McEvoy - Callum Carseldine (C)

Int: Drew Mitchell - Hayden Thick - Riley Easton - Brodie Easton

Round 10 - Syd Guilford Trophy Nominee - Richard Wenham

We've seen enough of the Ice Man this week taking a stroll down media street, but we can't finish the week without acknowledging his Round 10 Syd Guilford Trophy Nomination.

Story here

Garland further boost to Reserves outfit

Key forward Matt Garland makes a long awaited comeback from injury against his old club when the Pies Reserves play Labrador on Sunday.

Regular senior player Garland injured a knee in practice match in March and will be a key inclusion for the Pies as they challenge the ladder leading Tigers. With Matt Hockley promoted to the Seniors,  Garland will be the Pies key forward for the match 

The Pies are not without a chance of an upset despite being last on the ladder as they have been competitive for long periods in every match this season but have one period of a lapse in concentration for a quarter or so when their opponents are able to take control of the match. They will also need to cover for the loss of Riley Easton and Sean Mewing but the continued improvement of youngsters Grant Jennings , Matt Mazarolle and Logan Murray in midfield, James Page and Nathan Morrow on halfback and Monty Vine in ruck has meant the Pies have been more competitive in recent weeks.

The experienced Jadan Morton, Bryce Crossley, Gabe McKinnon  and Jae Humphrey provide the hardness at the contest which will keep the Pies in the match.

Expect a close tussle despite the teams occupying opposite ends of the ladder. 

Magpies on Media Street - Richard Wenham set for origin decider!

Richard Wenham got plenty of mentions in dispatches for his performance on Saturday vs the Panthers, with the latest coming in the AFLQ 'Tuesday Talking Points'

Tackle city for Wenham

If you're looking for a standout performer from the Western Magpies’ win over Morningside on the weekend, look no further than Richard Wenham. The Magpies were harder at the football all day on Saturday, epitomised by Wenham’s stats. He finished with 20 tackles for the day, nearly a third of the total tackles laid by the team. He set the tone all day.

Coach Glenn Humphrey has so far managed to fend off approaches from Mal Meninga to release the 'Ice Man' to the QLD team for the Origin decider to inject some much needed hardness into the QLD outfit.