METRO PROPERTY - SHERWOOD MAGPIES YOUTH FOOTY UPDATE

Sunday was a big day for the Sherwood Magpies, with both the U/12's and U/17's playing off for a spot in the big dance in 2 weeks time.

We are very pleased to report that both sides got the chocolates in wildy different circumstances to progress to their respective Grand Final's in a fortnight.

After finishing the year on top of the ladder, the U/12's traveled all the way to Jimboomba to take on Wests Bulldogs in a 'local derby'.  The Magpies progressed through to the Grand Final with a quality display of Magpie footy, running out winners 8.6 - 54 to 2.0 - 12.

They will now take on the winner of Wests vs Ambrose Treacy in the Grand Final to be played at Coorparoo on Saturday Sep 12 at 830am.  We encourage all Magpie fans to get down and watch the future of the club playing off for yet another Magpie Premiership.

Meanwhile, the undefeated U/17 outfit ventured to Burpengary to do battle in another 'local derby' against Mt Gravatt for the right to a week off and a spot in the big dance in 2 weeks time.

It what proved to be their toughest outing of the year, the Magpies showed great determination and courage to finish the match in a draw with Mt Gravatt.  The Magpies were 9 points down with just 3 minutes to play, but managed to claw their way to the draw before edging ahead in extra time for a memorable 7 point victory, 8.10 - 58 to 7.9 - 51.

This team has been hunted all year as the standout undefeated side, and just keep playing their 'team first' football to respond to every challenge thrown at them, which is a credit to the group and coaching staff.   They now progress to the Grand Final, also to be played at Coorparoo on Saturday Sep 12 @ 2pm against the winner of Morningside vs Mt Gravatt this weekend.

Last but not least, the Sherwood U/13's are still alive and kicking in finals action, taking on the Fassifern Falcons in a Preliminary Final this Sunday at Tansey Park, Logan @ 1130am.  The U/13's finished the home & away season on top of the ladder, but suffered a close loss to Ipswich Cats last week.    In their 2 outings vs Fassifern this year, they split the points - so it promises to be a close encounter before the Magpies hopefully progress to the Grand Final the following week with a chance to knock off the Cats in the decider and bring home the cup!

The Sherwood Magpies Junior Football club continues to be the place to be for young footballers, with a fantastic group of volunteers, parents and coaches who set a great example to our players.  Numbers continue to grow and with so many Sherwood juniors featuring in the QAFL Senior side, it shows that when many young kids come to the Magpies to play their footy, they end up staying for years and making life long connections - a feather in the cap for the club as a whole.

Be sure to get down to the remaining junior games as the Magpies march to even more Premierships!

MACK TRUCK MATCH REVIEW - VINTAGE POPE AS PIES HEAT UP FOR FINALS

The Western Magpies shook off a tenacious Red Lions team to win comfortably by 57 points, lock in second place on the ladder and the (apparent) right to host their first final. The Pies 17.12 - 114 to 8.9 - 57 victory at Chelmer was highlighted by a 7 goal performance by classy half forward Val Pope.

The first quarter was a tight affair with the Pies having the better of the play without being able to apply enough scoreboard pressure. 

With Pope playing closer to goal and the Pies midfield getting on top the home team were able to boot 5 goals to 2 in the second quarter to have a 3 goal lead at half time.  Pope had the home crowd cheering with a goal on the scoreboard flank when he wrong footed 3 opponents and threaded the ball through from the pocket. He showed his class yet again with his pace and balance exceptional. 

The Pies dominated the third quarter with 7 goals to UQ's solitary behind to have the game wrapped up by the last change. 

The last quarter saw the Pies go through the motions as they wrapped up the match and a 15-3 win loss record for the 2015 season coming into finals to finish outright 2nd.

The returning Callum Carseldine was back to his in and under ball winning best after missing last week and the indefatigable Tim McEvoy continues his fine form in the latter half of the season. With Drew Mitchell also on top in the middle and Matt Thompson playing higher up the ground getting plenty of ball the Pies controlled the game after quarter time. 

Wingers Aaron Maricic and Sunny Aneet were both also busy and ruckman Hayden thick was back to his best giving his team first use of the football.  

Matt Davis slotted back to the half back flank and resumed normal service with another polished display after missing 3 matches with injury. 

Davis and the defensive unit have been terrific all year as they have held teams to 10 goals or less in 15 matches this year. 

Alex Dickfos booted 4 goals to take his tally to 55 goals for the season and third on the goal kicking tally and Sam Copland also finished with 3 majors.

Glenn Humphrey – Western Magpies

“It was good to get the win, we were clinical when we needed to be. We understood what they were trying to achieve and trying to do, but we took that ability away from them, by covering their use of the football early on.

“Our third quarter was reasonably special, we did the hard work early, and were good enough to finish off.

“Now it’s finals footy, this week is a new game, it’s different to what we have done so far.”

The Magpies now play Wilston Grange at Yeronga on Saturday in the Qualifying Final. 

The Pies earnt the right host the game at Chelmer after a long arduous season, but AFLQ have unfortunately deemed the ground not up to standard after 30 Senior games and a host of junior football was played on the surface throughout the year.

Western Magpies2.1 - 13 | 7.5 - 47 | 14.7 - 91 | 17.12 - 114

defeated

UQ Red Lions        2.1 - 13 | 4.5 - 29 | 4.6 - 30 | 8.9 - 57

Best: M.Davis, M.Thompson, V.Pope, T.McEvoy, C.Carseldine, D.Mitchell

Goals: V.Pope 7, A Dickfos 4, S.Copland 3, L.Scott, M.Thompson, L.Woods 1

Metis Wealth Match Review - Reserves Round 18 vs UQ Red Lions

MAGPIES RESERVES SUFFER DISAPPOINTING DEFEAT

The Western Magpies finished a disappointing season with their most disappointing loss of the year on Saturday when they failed to fire a shot against UQ, suffering a heavy 49 point defeat 16.10 - 106 to 9.3 - 57.

The Pies went into the match with the misplaced belief they were the best side outside the finals, and had luck fallen their way - could have had a significant impact had they got there.  However, UQ took the dubious honour of being the best side outside the 5 with a determined win over a Magpie lineup considered very strong on paper.

The Pies just did not turn up to play and were blown away in the second and third quarters conceding 12 goals to 4 during that period, before restoring a semblance of pride in the last quarter.  

The Redlands based trio of Jack Goodall, Jak Williams and Liam Dwyer were among the best players and Williams will be eligible for senior selection during the finals.

Brodie Easton and Matt Garland had strong games and both have been good players in the last 3 matches and will also continue to train with the seniors as their finals campaign progresses.

Jadan Morton worked hard at CHB and he also has been a consistent performer this season when available.

The positives from the latter half of the season has been the form of several young players in Brodie Easton, Matt Mazarolle, Logan Murray, Monty Vine, Alex Spazovski, Grant Jennings, Nathan Morrow, Ben Hooper, Lachlan Gaedtke and Jesse Rigsby-Jones.

The Pies will be looking to these players to continue to improve to be part of the senior mix as well as drive this team forward in 2016. 

Western Magpies    1.1 - 7 | 3.3 - 21 | 5.3 - 33 | 9.3 - 57

defeated by

UQ Red Lions         2.3 - 15 | 7.3 - 45 | 14.8 - 92 | 16.10 - 106

Best: Goddall, Garland, Easton, Williams, Dwyer, Morton

Goals: Vine, Dwyer 2, Workamn, Crossley, Easton, McEvoy, Williams

The Western Magpies are pleased to welcome Metis Wealth Management - as a proud 2015 community partner and financial sponsor.

As part of Metis Wealth's partnership with the Western Magpies, you can contact Daniel George for a free consultation, the first step to achieving your financial goals and create your plan.

Daniel will be holding a seminar on Wed 9th of September at the club, so don't miss out and make sure you attend to take the first steps to securing your future.

PLACE PREVIEW - PIES HOST DANGEROUS UQ SIDE IN WESTERN DERBY

The Western Magpies host UQ at Chelmer on Saturday in the final home & away round of the season.  The western Derby will be played in front of a big crowd, also celebrating ladies day at the club. 

UQ may be propping up the ladder but they are a dangerous opponent as the Red Lions have had a good month of football with strong performances against Morningside, Wilston Grange and Labrador and a big defeat of the in form Broadbeach.

The Magpies will be strengthened with the return of four players for the clash. In comes Matt Davis, who returns after missing 3 matches with injury, and three players who missed last round in Aaron Maricic from unavailability, Sam Copland from illness and co-captain Callum Carseldine with soreness. The Pies brains trust decided to give midfielder Richard Wenham another week off to ensure he is cherry ripe to play his 100th Senior game for the Pies in the first week of the finals.

Out of the side are Jake Heard, who unfortunately re-fractured his fibula in his left leg last week, and Matt Hockley, Matt Mazarolle and Jake Goodall all go back to the Reserves after solid performances in the Pies big win last week.

After a few scratchy performances in recent weeks, the Pies will be looking for a full four quarter display this week and Coach Glenn Humphrey will be keen for his team to start from the first bounce and build momentum throughout as they get ready for finals action.

The return of Carseldine will add some in and under ball winning for the Pies and with Drew Mitchell having a great season and Tim McEvoy playing his best football and peaking perfectly for a finals assault, the Magpie midfield looks very strong.

Up forward Alex Dickfos has booted 51 goals to be fourth in the competition, just 10 behind the leader.

Val Pope has also booted 26 goals which is a good return for a player who spends plenty of time in the midfield.

Sam Copland will benefit from his week off and he will add firepower to the forward line.

Matt Davis was having a superb season until injured and despite missing matches will be one of the favourites to win the Bill Pierce Medal for the club's best and fairest award. 

The return of Aaron Maricic this week plus Sunny Aneet coming back the week before gives the Pies midfield plenty of pace to break the lines. 

The Pies will start very warm favourites in this match and should win to help the players celebrate their popular Mr Magpie night after the match.

A win will see the Pies finish second on the ladder, a great step forward from 2014 and the boys will know only half the job is done with a strong September campaign to come.

Western Magpies vs UQ Red Lions - Chelmer, Saturday Aug 29 @ 2pm

B: Sean Mewing - Chris Hunt - Luke Mitchell

HB: Matt Davis - Doug Lawrence - Luke Scott

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

HF: Sam Copland - Tom Michael (R) - Lachlan Woods (c)

F: Matt Thompson - Alex Dickfos - Val Pope

Foll: Dom Beer - Callum Carseldine (c) - Drew Mitchell

Int: Tim McEvoy - Riley Easton - Brady Allen - Hayden Thick

Place Preview - 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!

Place Preview - Reserves Round 18 vs UQ Red Lions

PIES LOOK TO FINISH ON A HIGH

A very strong Western Magpies Reserves team should finish the season on a high when they play UQ on Saturday at home.

A win in this game will give the Pies their seventh win in the past ten matches and this make them the second best side since the half way mark of the season. To the frustration of all at the club, and especially coach Quentin Johnson the Pies Reserves had a slow 0-8 start to the season and despite a fine second part of the year will not see finals action next week no matter what the result.

That said the Pies will be keen to finish the year as the best side out of the five - small consolation but a consolation none the less.

Inclusions are Matt Hockley who has been a fine player this season and has 28 goals in 9 matches this year - a big haul today could see him finish second on the goal kicking ladder.

Also back from the Seniors are Matt Mazarolle who enjoyed his Senior debut last week and Redlands based Jack Goodall, who despite being a handy player last week has been relegated as he can't qualify for QAFL Finals.

With the likes of experienced players in Jadan Morton, Bryce Crossley, Gabe Mckinnon, Sean McEvoy, Matt Green and Hockley, the Pies will be favoured to win.

The younger brigade which includes Mazarolle, Logan Murray, Monty Vine, Braden Thomas and Brodie Easton will be keen to push their credentials for Senior selection next year and will want to end the season with good performances. 

The Pies should win well which will be celebrated on Saturday night but there will be a little bit of "what might have been"  for the 2015 Reserves side.

COOPERS COMMUNITY FOOTY UPDATE - WOODSMEN INTO PRELIM

Defending Premiers, the Woodsmen AFC will take on 2013 Premiers the Zillmere Eagles in the Preliminary Final at 730pm on Friday night at Kedron.

In what promises to be a tough encounter between two teams with a slightly 'older' age profile, to the winner comes to the opportunity to take on the undefeated Kedron Lions in the Grand Final the following week.

The Woodies will be bolstered by some key inclusions into the side, fielding the strongest side they have all year with thanks to some recovering from flu and others returning from business abroad.

Zillmere will also feature a very strong side with many former QAFL stalwarts resuming battle. The Eagles will be primed for a strong showing after a heart stopping win in the final seconds vs Jimboomba last week and also having defeated the Woodies by 3 points in their only encounter this season way back in Round 3.

The Woodies were disappointed with their efforts last week in the Semi Final, with senior players missing several easy chances early on to allow Kedron to stay in the game after early Woodsmen dominance, and will be looking to put a quality 4 quarter performance on the board after some up and down form in recent weeks.

Returning to the side is gun recruit Ricky Dudley and the Woodies will also be hoping Brett McEvoy can get to the ground before quarter time this week as well.  Full forward and former Zillmere Premiership player Stephen Forbes will be resuming battle with some former teammates and will be looking for a big outing against his old side after recovering from a nasty chest infection in recent weeks.

Chris Mihalopoulous and Sam Curtis will continue to give the team drive from the engine room, while the miserly defence will no doubt shut down plenty of Zillmere's scoring opportunities.

Be sure to get down to support the boys in what promises to be a hard fought, and high standard battle with a spot in the Grand Final up for grabs to the winner and curtains for 2015 for the loser.

History threatens to repeat itself for the Woodies, who managed to take home the 2009 Premiership despite their opposition going through the home & away season undefeated and the boys are primed to repeat the dose!

METRO PROPERTY UPDATE - SHERWOOD U/17'S UNDEFEATED

The Sherwood Magpies Under 17s head into Sunday's second semi-final after an undefeated home & away season. They will come up against old rival Mt Gravatt in the top of the table clash, in what promises to be a very tough contest. Despite some recent injury setbacks,  there is a lot of talent in the U/17 Squad and Pies coach Justin Gore is confident he has the depth to enable the side to triumph on Sunday and secure a spot in the Grand Final in a fortnights time.

Season 2015 saw some huge changes to the competition structure, with the addition of the u/17’s and u/19’s age groups to replace the previously long running u/18 competition.

 After having gone so close to claiming the 2014 U/16 Division 1 title, and the dissolving of the Sherwood/Calamvale alliance, big changes were made to the youth football set up for the new season at Chelmer. The club appointed Queensland football legend, former premiership coach Quentin Johnson as youth football director and put in place his Development Program.

Realising the potential for a large turnover of players, Quentin approached the senior assistant coach of the last 2 years u/16’s , Justin Gore, and offered him the head coaching role of the new u/17’s . The coaching group was further boosted by the appointment of club legend and triple premiership player Reid Dobson, and current senior list member, the very experienced Bryce Crossley as assistant coaches.  Combined with access to the senior teams fitness and conditioning coaches, the club proved it was prepared to fully support the Development Program and provide a clear pathway for this talented group of youth footballers to transition into the senior set up at the Western Magpies

After working hard through a preseason focused on improving core skills, building a base fitness level, and developingthe“Team 1st” culture, the squad headed into the season feeling positive about what could be achieved. Lachie Dennis and Jake Farrell were appointed Co Captains, supported by Zac Stegmeyer and Chae Lawson as Vice Captains. Bottom aged pair Billy Johnson and Sam Hartog completed the leadership group.

The squad had attracted a large number of new players, with 11 new faces in the line-up for the first game. That group included Riley Easton, who had joined older brother Brodie at the Magpies. The impact Riley made in the first couple of games saw him elevated into the senior list, and that was the last the u/17 squad saw of him!   This is a perfect example of what the Development Program is designed for, providing a clear pathway to senior footy for the Magpies.

After having 9 boys selected in the various rep sides for the u/16’s state carnival, and having 3 senior players unavailable with long term injuries, it was a quality effort to get through the first half of the season undefeated.  It was not without the odd challenge, with wins over Morningside, Kenmore & arch rival Mt Gravatt by less than 10 points. The boys were proving they were prepared to stick together when things got close, trust in each other and the game plan. The effort put in to educate the lads on the importance of everyone playing their role was paying off, as the team accepted and overcame every challenge thrown at them.

As the season progressed, the mounting injury toll was balanced out by the return to the team of important senior players Stegmeyer, Pershouse, Blackberry and Australian U/16 Cricket rep Blake Edwards. Still, with a list of 30 players, the squad went into a few games with just 20/21 players to choose from. This was an important phase of development for the squad, when everyone realised there was a role to play and depth in the squad was established. There is not one player in the whole squad who hasn’t played an important role in getting the team to this stage of the season.

Having progressed through the regular season without tasting defeat, it's a fantastic start to the Development Program and putting future steps in place for the club as a whole, with a total of 9 boys from the U/17 squad having had a taste of QAFL or QAFL Reserves football in 2015 - the fruits of the program are already showing.

However, as everyone will acknowledge, the task is far from complete and the Magpies still have the most important month of football for the year to come. There is a a clear choice in front of the boys, Keep driving the “Team 1st“ culture, continual improvement and find a level of performance our competitors can’t match that will earn the results the squad deserves, OR spend time listening to people slap them on the back, take the eye off the ball, and risk not achieving the results the team is after.

It’s a very exciting club to be around this year, with the senior team proving what a group of men totally committed to the cause can achieve, the awesome new change rooms, the improved club house and the development squad doing it's best to make the club the best place for your lads to improve their footy.

Sherwood Magpies U/17's taking on Mt.Gravatt Vultures at 2:45pm on Sunday August 30 at Burpengary for a spot in the 2015 Grand Final.

The boys would love your support, so please make every effort to get to the game to watch the best U/17 footballers in Brisbane go hard at it in a final that promises plenty of action, high quality footy and entertainment.

See you there

MACK TRUCK MATCH REVIEW - PIES OUTLAST HAWKS WITH STRONG FINISH

The Western  Magpies consolidated second place on the QAFL ladder with an 11 goal win over Sandgate at Lemke Road on Saturday. 

The Magpies had one late change with Matt Hockley coming into the team for Sam Copland who was ill.

The Pies were challenged by a more enthusiastic Hawks team in the first half and only led by 8 points at half time, flattering the Pies. The Pies gradually got on top in the third quarter and then ran away with the match in the last to win 19.17-131 to 9.10- 64. 

The Magpies were guilty of overuse of the football in windy conditions in the first half and turnovers with poor hand and foot disposal blighted the Pies performance.  Sandgate were also running harder and outworking the Pies but they let the Pies off the hook with inaccurate kicking into their forward line.

Three quick goals in broken play mid way through the third quarter sparked the Magpies and they dominated the final quarter and a half, booting 11 goals to 3 and 8 last quarter goals to end the game with a comfortable victory.

Tim McEvoy, reinvigorated by his week off, was the Pies best player with plenty of possessions in midfield as well as working hard to help out in defence and then link with the forwards. Drew Mitchell continued his Syd Guildford nomination form with another 30 disposal game in the midfield rotations and his brother Luke also played well as he enjoyed the freedom of a midfield role in this match. 

Dom Beer was tireless in ruck, Ben Jaenke-Cain also won plenty of the ball and helped mop up in defence and Sunny Aneet did some good things on a wing on his return to the side.

Alex Dickfos found it hard to get into the game in the windy conditions in the first half but was better after half time when the wind dropped to finish with 4 goals and Val Pope also booted 4 goals despite being off the ground for some time with a leg knock. Pope was pushed forward after half time and his footy smarts came to the fore. 

Luke Scott was his consistent self across half back and when moved forward in the last quarter showed his versatility with 4 strong marks and one goal. 

Matt Thompson was also good in attack and he finished with 3 goals and had another 3 goal assists. 

The Magpies host last placed UQ at Chelmer on Saturday but the students are finishing the season strongly and pushed ladder leaders Labrador on Saturday, had a comfortable win over in form Broadbeach the week before and pushed Grange hard the week prior to complete a high quality 3 weeks of footy for the students.

With Broadbeach upsetting Morningside on Sunday, only an extremely heavy defeat can cost the Magpies a double chance and they may wish to rest a few sore players, but will still need to be at their best against a Red Lions team keen for a finals bound scalp to complete their season

The selectors have a difficult task this week with the availability of Callum Carseldine, Richard Wenham, Matt Davis, Sam Copland, Aaron Maricic and Jae Humphrey, all who missed the Sandgate game.  

Western Magpies   2.4 - 16 | 5.9 - 39 | 11.14 - 80 | 19.17 - 131

defeated

Sandgate Hawks 2.4 - 16 | 4.7 - 31 | 7.8 - 50 | 9.10 - 64

Best: T.McEvoy, L.Mitchell, D.Beer, d.Lawrence, D.Mitchell, B.Jeanke-Cain

Goals: A.Dickfos, V.Pope 4, M.Thompson 3, J.Heard, L.Woods 2, L.Mitchell, R.Easton, T.Michael, L.Scott 1

Metis Wealth Match Review - Garland kicks 8 in Reserves victory

Key forward Matt Garland booted 8 goals after quarter time to lead the Western Magpies Reserves to a big 109 point victory over Sandgate on Saturday. The Pies won 22.8-140 to 5.7-31. 

The win is bitter-sweet for the Pies and coach Quentin Johnson as it shows what might have been for his side as their recent form indicates they are up with the best teams in the competition but unfortunately they won't be playing finals.

A 0-8 start to the season when the Pies depth was severely tested has proved a step too far. The Pies have won 6 of their past 9 matches and will be favourites against UQ in the final round, but have run out of time to make up lost ground.

Garland started in the ruck in the first quarter and was moved forward in the second and with the Pies on top in midfield and enjoying good delivery and space to lead, he marked strongly and kicked accurately for goal.

The Pies had many good players with Redlands based youngster Jak Williams having his best game for some time with an energetic display in the midfield,  Matt Green won plenty of possessions and capped his game with 3 goals and Brodie Easton had leather poisoning playing in the centre.

Ben Hooper has played well in recent games and he had another good match, highlighted with a 60 metre chase and tackle in the last quarter when the match was well won. Coach Quentin Johnson was also happy with his 2 young ruckmen in Monty Vine and Jesse Rigsby-Jones who have both improved throughout the season.

The only disappointment was that full back Sean McEvoy was moved forward in the last quarter but he was unable to snaffle a goal!!

The Pies host UQ next Saturday and will be ken to finish the season on a high note and to celebrate at the Mr Magpie function after the game.  

The Pies are in the strong position to have the likes of Garland, Easton and Williams in the wings as all have played well in Seniors this year. 

Young ruckman Liam Dwyer, centreman Bryce Crossley and key big man Jadan Morton also add depth to the Pies squad.  

It was also good to see Tadiwa Parirenyatwa watching the match after recent surgery for his ruptured patellar tendon he suffered at training 6 weeks ago.

Western Magpies   4.0 - 24 | 9.4 - 58 | 14.7 - 91 | 22.8 - 140

defeated

Sandgate Hawks 2.1 - 13 | 3.2 - 20 | 4.4 - 28 | 4.7 - 31

Best: J.Williams, M.Green, M.Garland, B.Easton, B.Hooper, M.Vine

Goals: M.Garland 8, L.Dwyer, B.Crossley, M.Green 3, J.Williams, B.Walker, B.Thomas, C.Grant, J.Morton 1

The Western Magpies are pleased to welcome Metis Wealth Management - as a proud 2015 community partner and financial sponsor.

As part of Metis Wealth's partnership with the Western Magpies, you can contact Daniel George for a free consultation, the first step to achieving your financial goals and create your plan.

Daniel will be holding a seminar on Wed 9th of September at the club, so don't miss out and make sure you attend to take the first steps to securing your future.

PLACE PREVIEW - PIES LOOK TO KEEP IMPROVING

The Western Magpies should prove too strong for the ninth placed Sandgate when the two teams meet at Sandgate on Saturday.

The Pies come off a tough match last round and have made four changes to the side that snuck home for a 9 point win last weekend.

In comes Tim McEvoy from a week off for a wedding, Redlands based Jack Goodall, winger Sunny Aneet after missing 2 matches and Matt Mazarolle makes his senior debut after consistent Reserves form

Out are Callum Carseldine and Richard Wenham (niggles), Aaron Maricic (unavailable) and Jai Humphrey (injured).

Sandgate have struggled this year and will be counting down to the end of the season but did trouble the Pies in their first round clash for three quarters before the Pies finished with a comfortable win after a quality final quarter.

The Pies have enjoyed the wide open spaces of the big Sandgate ground in recent years and with space and time the likes of Val Pope, Alex Dickfos, Sam Copland and Tom Michael, the Pies forwards will be handful for the Hawks defenders.  Dickfos' 2 goals last week was down on his recent output so he will be keen to up the ante this game.

Pope was superb last week with 6 goals, however some general soreness after last week, he may be eased through this match to have him primed for the finals.

Speedsters Riley Easton and Jake Heard will also relish the space and could be damaging up forward if given room to move.

The engine room will welcome back Tim McEvoy who will step into the breach with Carseldine and Wenham out of the side. McEvoy's shoulders will have enjoyed a week off but he has been consistent all year without too much fanfare and his experience is a vital ingredient in the midfield rotations. Luke Mitchell is rumoured to join his brother Drew through the middle of the ground and the Pies have several options to throw into the midfield mix if needed such as Luke Scott and debutante Matt Mazarolle.

Sunny Aneet will be keen to bounce back from a turbulent 3 weeks and with Ben Jaenke-Cain and Brady Allen forms a potent centreline. Jaenke-Cain continues to rack up possessions and Allen can be an x-factor, able to play forward or back and tall and can kick a long ball.

Doug Lawrence has been superb this year in the key defensive role and for a 19 year old looks and plays like a grizzled veteran. His tight defensive work and closing speed to the contest and judgement with the high ball has been exceptional and his 8 big spoils v Wilston Grange have apparently been nominated for Danny Frawley's "Golden Fist Award".  Lawrence is complemented  by Chris Hunt who is equally adept in the air then usually has the pace and balance to gather at ground level to launch many a Magpie counter attack.

The Magpies are favoured in this match but Sandgate will be ready to pounce should the Pies have their minds elsewhere. A solid effort from the Magpies should secure the four points and consolidate second place on the ladder going into the final round.

Western Magpies vs Sandgate - Lemke Road, Sandgate - Saturday Aug 22 @ 2pm

B: Sean Mewing - Chris Hunt - Luke Mitchell

HB: Jake Goodall - Doug Lawrence - Luke Scott

C: Brady Allen - Ben Jeanke-Cain - Sonny Aneet

HF: Sam Copland - Tom Michael (R) - Jake Heard

F: Matt Thompson - Alex Dickfos - Val Pope

Foll: Dom Beer - Lachlan Woods (c) - Drew Mitchell

Int: Tim McEvoy - Riley Easton - Matt Mazarolle - Hayden Thick

Place Preview - 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!

Place Preview - Reserves Round 17 vs Sandgate

PIES LOOK TO CONTINUE LATE SEASON FORM IN RESERVES

The Western Magpies Reserves will be looking to win their sixth match of the season when they play Sandgate on Saturday at Lemke Road.. The Pies will be a much stronger outfit than the one that went down by 2 points in their first round clash, and will be looking to continue their late season momentum.

That narrow loss plus a couple of other games that got away have resulted in the Pies being out of finals contention which is unfortunate as they now have a team that could go deep into the finals had they been able to force their way into the 5.

Injury and unavailability resulted in the Pies struggling in some weeks to fill a team but with most players available in the latter half of the season the Pies have gained more continuity in their lineup and improved their results.

The Magpies will be without tough midfielders Joel Workman, Luke de Nys and Hunter Heath through injury but will welcome back youngsters in Jesse Rigsby-Jones and Nathan Morrow and defender Jamie Page.

The Pies are particularly strong up forward with Matt Hockley coming off 7 goals last game and Matt Garland another tall marking option. Both certainly add depth to the Pies senior side with Hockley unlucky not to get a senior recall.

Matt Green across half forward is also dangerous and young ruckman/forward Liam Dwyer has been in good form in recent weeks.

Bryce Crossley in midfield has been Mr Consistent yet again this year and youngsters in Lachlan Gaedtke, Grant Jennings and Logan Murray have found consistency in the latter half of the year as they enjoy a bit more freedom with stronger teammates around them.

Brodie Easton had a fine game last week and must have been close to a senior recall while young Redlands-based speedster Jak Williams will be keen to play well to keep his name in the mix for senior selection.

Jadan Morton and Sean McEvoy are the key defenders and will lead a defensive unit that should keep the Hawks to a low score.

Place Preview - 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!

Coopers Community Footy Update - Woodsmen fight for Grand Final spot

Community footy club and Western Magpies affiliate, the Woodsmen AFC will take on Kedron on Friday night at 730pm at Kedron for a place in the 2015 Grand Final.

After an undefeated 2014 Premiership campaign, the Woodsmen entered the 2015 Season with grand plans of back to back Premierships, especially with more fresh recruits such as a couple of Magpie favourite sons in dual senior premiership winning Gerard Moore, Reserves Premiership winning skipper, Luke Knight and former U/18's midfielder Sam Curtis.

However, as the season progressed it became clear that more and more recruits were needed as constant injuries to old bodies forced the Woodsmen to use over 60 players throughout the home & away season.  First it was former B&F winner and goalkicking ace, Jay Baker going down with a season ending knee injury in the opening minutes of Round 5 before worse was to come in the same game when Luke Knight suffered a horrific career ending dislocated hip and broken casing in what appeared to be an innocuous contest in the defensive 50.  A fe matches later on a cold night at Collingwood Park, the 2014 Nipperess Medal winner Reid Dobson also suffered a career ending knee injury to put a dampener on the 7-1 start to the season.

The Woodies soldiered on, but continued to lose troops with Matty McNaughton damaging his troublesome back and neck to end his season, while young gun recruit William Pierce (no, not THAT William Pierce) also went down with an ACL injury.

Despite the setbacks, the Woodies managed to finish the Home & Away season in 2nd place with a win/loss record of 13-3, including 2 close losses by less than a kick, earning the right to a first up final against the undefeated Kedron side for a spot in the Grand Final.  The Woodies will be quietly confident of what many may consider an upset victory against ladder leaders, as they gather something close to their best available side for the first time in the 2015 season.

Success at the Woodsmen in recent years has been built on the back of a miserly defence, lead by champion centre half back Tim Green who continues to dominate in the air with his exceptional anticipation and safe hands.  Fresh new recruit, Paul Eaton from club sponsor Place Graceville has enjoyed a standout debut season at full back with his height and athleticism, and would be one of the favourites for the prestigious Rising Woody award.  At ground level, the evergreen club stalwarts Chris La Burniy and Matty Prior continue to give the team drive and run from the back half.

In the midfield, the Woodies enjoy stellar service from Magpie Legend, Brett McEvoy (when available) and Chris Mihalopolous who is also rumoured to have played a couple of games for the Magpies in previous years.  Joined by youthful young star, Sam Curtis - they form a formidable centre square setup mixing youth, skill and experience, while games record holder Kiran 'Special K' Verma has produced another fine season after indifferent form in recent years, despite now being on the wrong side of 30....

Up front, the Woodies sport a diverse forward line, lead by dual premiership skipper and 2006 Magpie Premiership player, Sean Toohey with his mix of class and skill and a three pronged tall forward line causing defensive headaches for the opposition.  Gerard Moore roams the arc at Centre Half Forward with his outstanding agility and fitness, mixed with strong hands, while a two pronged deeper forward line picks up the slack from the loss of Jay Baker, with club President Andrew Thomson leading the goalkicking by just 1 ahead of Sandgate recruit, big Stephen Forbes who has proved a strong (stationary) target in the goal square.

The Woodsmen have enjoyed the strong support from the Sherwood faithful in many home games this year and look forward to supportive crowd in enemy territory on Friday night as they take on Kedron.  so make sure you get down to support the boys in what will be a high quality community footy final with spot in the Grand Final on the line.

Woodsmen AFC vs Kedron Lions - 730pm, Friday August 21 @ Kedron

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!

Coopers Pale Ale - Coopers Pale Ale The Original Pale Ale. Beware of pale imitations. Guaranteed to turn heads, this is the beer that inspired a new generation of ale drinkers. With its fruity and floral characters, balanced with a crisp bitterness, Coopers Pale Ale has a compelling flavour which is perfect for every occasion.

Coopers Mild Ale - Finally, someone brewed a midstrength beer with flavour. Mild Ale is brewed with a selection of barley and wheat malt, and with no added sugar. Smooth malt character balanced by a triple hopping with Pride of Ringwood and Saaz hops.

MACK TRUCKS MATCH REVIEW - POPE STARS AS PIES WIN NAIL BITER

As the old saying goes, "the cream always rises to the top". This was certainly the case with a vintage Val Pope performance against Mt Gravatt on Saturday.

Pope kicked 6 goals in a superb display as the Pies held on in a nail biting finish to win by 8 points, 15.7-97 to 13.11-89 at Mt Gravatt.

That Pope was also playing in the midfield rotations as well as up forward makes his 6 goals all the more noteworthy. When the game was on the line in the last quarter Pope, who was pushed forward after copping a hip knock,  conjured 3 last quarter goals to give the Pies some leeway mid way through the last which proved the difference.

The overriding feeling at the end of the game from the Pies brains trust and supporters was that they had got out of jail against a committed Vultures outfit, as the home team had plenty of late chances to win the game, but couldn't quite finish their hard work. 

Mt Gravatt were obviously stronger than the first round clash which saw the Pies 134 point victors. The Pies were out of the blocks early with 5 goals in a flash before the Vultures tightened up to match the Pies late in the first quarter.

The second quarter was an even affair as the Pies went into half time 19 points up. 

Mt Gravatt dominated in the third quarter to draw level late in the quarter but luckily for the Magpies were wayward in their goal kicking. A late goal to Matt Thompson, who made the most of his opportunities with 4 goals for the match, allowed the Pies to have a 9 point buffer at the last break.

Pope then popped up with 2 quick goals to extend the lead and the Pies looked safe but Mt Gravatt continued to attack to reduce the lead to 4 points and two relatively easy shots went wide to let the Pies off the hook. Then Pope came to the party to finish off an outstanding match, booting the sealer late in the last.

The Vultures midfield matched the Pies as they had several inclusions including a tall ruckman who made Dom Beer and Hayden Thick work hard. Ben Jaenke-Cain and Aaron Maricic toiled hard through the middle of the ground and when Maricic was able to use his pace and run the Pies looked dangerous.

If Pope was the maestro up forward, Doug Lawrence was a superbconductor in the last line of defence with timely marks and spoils continuing his great form this season.  Chris Hunt was also good across half back and Tom Michael presented all day across half forward and kicked a big last quarter goal when the Pies were under the pump.

Riley Easton was also busy with his harassing and tackling pressure on the wing. 

The Magpies expected a fired up Mt Gravatt to be a tough opponent and that was how it panned out. That the Pies were still able to win with a number of prime movers down on the day was testament to their resilience and depth this year.

The Pies travel to Sandgate on Saturday and will be looking to consolidate second place on the ladder against the 9th placed Hawks.

Senior Coach - Glenn Humphrey

"It was a tough game, they definitely came to play.

We were good in the first quarter but then dropped off the pace a little bit, which allowed them to get back in the game, and then they played it on their terms.

Sometimes yoyu just have to win ugly, and we certainly did that today, which is good, it keeps us in second spot."

Western Magpies           5.2 - 32 | 9.3 -57 | 11.6 - 72 | 15.7 - 97

defeated

Mt. Gravatt Vultures       1.3 - 9 | 5.7 - 37 | 9.9 - 63 | 13.11 - 89

BEST: D.Lawrence, B.Jeanke-Cain, V.Pope, T.Michael, A.Maricic, C.Hunt

Goals: V.Pope 6, M.Thompson 4, A.Dickfos, T.Michael 2, S.Copland 1

METIS WEALTH MATCH REVIEW - Hockley kicks 7 in Reserves Victory

Matt Hockley kicked seven straight goals as the Western Magpies Reserves had a strong win over the finals bound Mt Gravatt on Saturday.  The Pies survived a strong Mt Gravatt third quarter fightback to win by 29 points, 13.5-83 to 8.6-54

Fielding their strongest side for the year, the Pies were on top early but injuries to Joel Workman, Luke de Nys and Hunter Heath in the second quarter resulted in the Pies bench down to one player and the midfield rotations all but gone for the remainder of the match.

As a result, the Pies did struggle in the third quarter to be held goalless as the Vultures kicked 4 goals to narrow the lead from 29 points at half time to 4 points at three quarter time.

The Magpies lifted in the last quarter to wrest back control and boot 4 goals while keeping the home team goalless. Good players were midfielders Brodie Easton and Bryce Crossley, who both drove the side forward when the game was in the balance and Hockley was a good target up forward, marking strongly and kicking for goal superbly.

Jadan Morton was another big inclusion and with Gabe McKinnon, formed a strong halfback line to hold up the Vultures when they dominated the third quarter.

Youngster Lachlan Gaedtke had arguably his best game for the season and he is another young player showing continual improvement.

Coach Quentin Johnson was pleased with the effort especially with three injured players down from half time. 

Magpies4.3 - 27 | 9.3 - 57 | 9.4 - 58 | 13.5 - 83

defeated

Vultures 2.2 - 14 | 4.4 - 28 | 8.4 - 52 | 8.6 - 54

Best: B.Easton, J.Morton, M.Hockley, L.Gaedtke, B.Crossley, G.McKinnon

Goals: M.Hockley 7, G.Jennings 2, J.Workmand, B.Easton, J.Williams, B.Crossley 1

The Western Magpies are pleased to welcome Metis Wealth Management - as a proud 2015 community partner and financial sponsor.

As part of Metis Wealth's partnership with the Western Magpies, you can contact Daniel George for a free consultation, the first step to achieving your financial goals and create your plan.

Daniel will be holding a seminar on Wed 9th of September at the club, so don't miss out and make sure you attend to take the first steps to securing your future.

MACK TRUCKS MATCH PREVIEW - MAGPIES BUILD TOWARDS FINALS

The Western Magpies are building toward finals as they travel to meet another old rival in Mt Gravatt on Saturday at Dittmer Park.

On paper the Pies will be warm favourites, but will be wary of a resurgent Vultures team keen to take down a scalp or two before season's end.

The Magpies had a huge win in their first clash this year but the home team are stronger this time around and will want to make a statement. The Magpies have withstood all challenges bar three this year and have made three changes to the side that won well against PBC last week.

In comes Val Pope after missing with illness, CHF Tom Michael returns from Redland and young speedster Jake Heard gets his chance after 2 years of injury frustration and recent good Reserves form.

Out of the side are Brodie Easton and Matt Garland, both squeezed to the Reserves after stepping up in recent matches and the unavailable Tim McEvoy.

The changes have resulted in a strong looking forward line with Tom Michael at CHF, Sam Copland to a flank and the classy Val Pope back in to provide another forward option. With Alex Dickfos now at permanent full forward it is a potent attacking unit. Dickfos is averaging 4 goals a match in recent weeks and has kicked 45 goals to be on fourth the goal kicking list, 11 goals behind leader Kent Abey.

Speedsters Riley Easton and Jake Heard will both be injected into the forward line to hurry and harass and add another level of excitement to the Pies forward line.

The back line has been miserly in all but 2 matches this season and Glenn Humphrey and his selectors have moved Doug Lawrence to fullback to counter the Vultures key forward. Chris Hunt goes to CHB and Sean Mewing and Luke Scott flank him in a solid and rebounding half back line.

Hayden Thick will start in ruck to give him more game time after missing recent matches and this will allow the hard working Dom Beer to reduce his workload. 

Callum Carseldine, the QAFL's Syd Guildford Award nominee for Round 15, just continues to rack up "hard ball gets" and he is part of a strong engine room with Drew Mitchell and Richard Wenham, both also Syd Guildford nominees this season.

The Pies centreline of Brad Allen, Ben Jaenke-Cain and Aaron Maricic provide a variety of styles and sizes and all can inject themselves decisively into the play to drive their team forward.

The Magpies will be set for an early onslaught from Mt Gravatt but look to have the class all over the ground to withstand this and then take control of the contest to enable them to take the 4 points and consolidate second spot on the ladder.

Western Magpies vs Mt Gravatt Vultures - Dittmer Park, Sat Aug 15 @ 2pm

B: Jae Humphrey - Doug Lawrence - Luke Mitchell

HB: Sean Mewing - Chris Hunt - Luke Scott

C: Brady Allen - Ben Jeanke-Cain - Aaron Maricic

HF: Sam Copland - Tom Michael (R) - Lachlan Woods (c)

F: Matt Thompson - Alex Dickfos - Val Pope

Foll: Hayden Thick - Drew Mitchell - Callum Carseldine (c)

Int: Riley Easton - Richard Wenham - Jake Heard - Dom Beer

PLACE PREVIEW - Reserves Round 16 vs Mt Gravatt

The Western Magpies Reserves will field their strongest team for the season against Mt Gravatt on Saturday.

There are 9 changes to the side that defeated Palm Beach-Currumbin last week.

In come key forwards Matt Garland (Returning from Seniors) and Matt Hockley (work commitments), half forwards Joel Workman, Luke de Nys and Jadan Morton, all from injury, wingers Brodie Easton (Seniors) and Sunny Aneet returns after missing a week with small forward Jak Williams back from playing for the Lions Reserves last week.

Jake Heard has been promoted to the Seniors and a number of Woodsmen who helped out last week return to their side to prepare for finals action next weekend.

Gabe McKinnon across half back is having a fine season and recently celebrated 200 club games, in addition to his long junior service.

Bryce Crossley has had a consistent year in midfield and Redlands listed ruckman/forward Liam Dwyer has enjoyed his return to football to be a fine player in recent matches.

Young ruckman Monty Vine has toiled hard all year and other youngsters in Logan Murray and Matt Mazarolle will be in the Senior mix next season.

With winnable matches in the last two rounds, the Pies are a big chance to knock off the finals-bound Vultures to help finish the season with three wins and end on a high note.

METIS WEALTH MILESTONE - Gabe Mckinnon 200 Games

The Western Magpies celebrated the loyalty and contribution of Gabe McKinnon last Saturday when he played his 200th game of Senior Football for the Western Magpies (in addition to countless junior games!)

His fine contribution to the club was was acknowledged last week by club historian and "keeper of the flame" Kevin Kluver after the match against Palm Beach-Currumbin. 

Gabe "Heinzy" McKinnon has played 81 Senior and 119 Reserves games. He played in the 2006 Seniors Premiership when the Pies defeated Noosa at Carrara and played in two Reserves premierships in 2005 and 2007.

He was awarded best on ground in the 2005 Reserves Premiership playing at centre half back. 

He grew up in Brisbane but his family was from Adelaide so Australian Rules was always his preferred choice of footy. He started at Yeronga but after 2 years moved to Sherwood in 1995 to play Under 12s and has not missed a season since. 

His junior career was not as successful premiership-wise as his senior career as he played in four losing grand finals and in a tied grand final while at Sherwood and also lost an Under 18 Grand final for the Western Magpies in 2003.

He also laments the one that got away as the Pies lost the 2008 Reserves Grand Final after entering the decider undefeated throughout the season.

He was runner-up in the Reserves best and fairest in 2005 and has a been consistent performer in every season he has played for the Pies.

"Heinzy's" jinking runs make for entertaining football and at times have mesmerised himself, his teammates and opponents alike with his unpredictability. His flamboyance and "will I kick it or handball it or take on the entire opposition with long bouncing runs" has left a few of his coaches a little less hirsute . Speaking of coaches, a few he has played under include Des Lashman, Kevin Stephens, Alan Hagley, Andrew Farr, Paul Grentell, Peter McClennan, Craig Allen and current coaches Glenn Humphrey and Quentin Johnson.

This season he has been in best and fairest winning form in the Reserves, playing across half back and his intercept marking and run out of defence have been highlights of the Pies' season. That he has still been amongst the best players whether the Pies have had weak and strong teams this year, which is testament to his consistency this season.

He has been at the club for 20 years and has been a loyal and uncomplaining player. He is the epitome of Rudyard Kipling's hero in his poem  "If", taking the good with the bad with equal measure, never complaining and happy to play where he is picked and trying his hardest every match.

Heinzy has a ready smile and is just a good bloke to have around the club.

He is scrupulously fair in his football and is fearless in his attack on the ball.

And his nickname? As Gabe tells it, he had curly red hair when younger and Tim McEvoy gave him the nickname Heinzy-- Heinz tomato sauce was dubbed "Big Red" at the time. 

He says he has had a lot of fun times at the club and has made many life long friendships. 

He has also done well off the field and works as a solicitor for a law firm in the city.

Congratulations to Gabe on reaching a substantial footballing milestone and being one of the blokes that makes this football club a great place to be.

The Western Magpies are pleased to welcome Metis Wealth Management - as a proud 2015 community partner and financial sponsor.

As part of Metis Wealth's partnership with the Western Magpies, you can contact Daniel George for a free consultation, the first step to achieving your financial goals and create your plan.

Daniel will be holding a seminar on Wed 9th of September at the club, so don't miss out and make sure you attend to take the first steps to securing your future.

Magpies on Media Street - Round 15 Syd Guilford Nominee

The latest Magpie to take a stroll down media street is fearless Co-Captain, Callum Carseldine

From AFLQ

The Western Magpies were as comprehensive as they have been all year in their win over Palm Beach on Saturday, and they were led from the front superbly by skipper Callum Carseldine, the round 15 Syd Guildford nominee.

Like in a few other games this year, Carseldine had his own footy on Saturday, but his best on ground performance wasn’t handed to him on a platter; he really had to work for this one.

“I copped a tag in the first half. I’m not used to being tagged so it was a new experience, but fortunately I thought the likes of Drew Mitchell and the other mids were getting dangerous, so we were getting the job done without me being too influential early,” Carseldine said.

“I guess I worked my way into it through the contested footy rather than free footy.”

After missing last year due to an ACL tear, managing his load this year was always going to be a tricky one.

If you include the State Representative Carnival, it’s been 12 weeks without a break, but resting the knee may not be the best option.

“It’s a unique thing because you think you need rest, but what the knee actually needs is for you to strengthen the quad and hamstrings. The more you rest the worse it gets,” he said.

He believes his ability to consistently be out on the park this year has been helped by one man in particular.

“James Nightingale, has been huge for us in terms of being quite structured and deliberate in how we recover, I feel really good going into the last part of the year,” Carseldine said.

While Carseldine has been a star this year, the Magpies biggest strength in 2015 has been their ability to spread the load.
The have adopted the affectionate title of ‘a bunch of role players’ both internally, and externally.

“There is always banter in the sheds in terms of who is the best, Matt Davis rates himself pretty high,” he joked.

“The best thing about this year, it seems like there is different guys each week standing out. Early on in the year when Luke Scott went down with his ankle, we thought we would really struggle to be a potent team.

“We have learned not to rely on the individual, we have learned to rely on our disciplines and our processes, but we are very understanding of the fact that Labrador are still the bench mark and for us to beat them, we are all going to have to play our best.”

When we spoke earlier in the year, Carseldine’s goals were a top four finish. Even though that has been well and truly eclipsed, there are still some areas that need to be addressed.

“We haven’t got as close to Labrador as we would like, but we have certainly gone better and stayed at a higher level for longer than I would have thought of, and that’s largely because of Hump and the coaching staff,” he said.

With finals just three weeks away, I asked Carseldine if he could dare to dream just yet.

“I think it’s healthy to dream. July and August are tough months. Rocking up to training you are still enthusiastic, but I think it’s healthy to think about the possibilities of winning a grand final, provided you don’t go away from the things that have got you to this point,” he said.

“That’s the best thing about the Magpies. I’ve never sensed there are egos or people who think they are better than what they are. It’s good to think a little bit about what we could achieve, that creates motivation and energy amongst the group, but we are definitely not looking past Mt Gravatt this weekend.

“They are always a really hard and physical side, and their last month has been excellent, so there is no chance we are going to take the last three weeks lightly.”

The Magpies are in the position they are in 2015 for two reasons, the cattle, and the leadership. Carseldine is at the front of them both.

The Magpies travel to Dittmer Park this Saturday to take on Mt Gravatt.

Credit: Andrew Wiles (AFLQ)

MACK TRUCK MATCH REVIEW - MAGPIES DOMINATE OLD RIVALS

A dominant opening 20 minutes by the Western Magpies which had the Pies with a 40 point lead blew old rivals Palm Beach-Currumbin away as the home team then went on to a 12 goal victory over the fifth placed Lions.

It was a comprehensive victory against what could have been a dangerous opponent as the Pies won 19.10 - 124 to 7.10 - 52. The win moves the Pies to second on the ladder a game clear of Morningside and Wilston Grange

Coach Glenn Humphrey thought it was the best first half the Magpies had played this year with a half time lead of 62 points over a fellow finals contender.

The Magpies have been lauded this year for their work in close and for the contested ball but not so much for their running game. The Pies won the contested footy but then opened up play early and were more direct in forward entries so key forwards Alex Dickfos, Sam Copland and Matt Garland were able to exploit the quick entries to all hit the scoreboard with early goals.

The Pies rested on their laurels somewhat in the second half but PBC did lift their work rate to make the second half more of a contest. 

Callum Carseldine continued his good form, winning the ball and feeding it to his runners and Richard Wenham was another racking up plenty of disposals.

Doug Lawrence and Luke Scott were pillars in defence yet again and the backline were successful in restricting the opposition to a total below 10 goals once again. The Pies have only had 10 or more goals kicked against them on four occasions this year and have the second lowest points against after ladder leaders Labrador. 

Up forward Dickfos and Copland were a handful for the Lions defenders with their leading and marking and a pleasing aspect of the Pies game was the space they created for their leading forwards.

Brady Allen was also constructive from a wing and his form has been pleasingly consistent this year.

The Pies travel to Mt Gravatt next Saturday for another danger game. The Vultures have found good form recently and will not be the pushover the first round 134 point win to the Pies might suggest. 

Glenn Humphrey – Senior Coach

"We were very happy with the outcome, particularly the first half - we broke them right open and ran the legs off them

We won the stoppages, got first use of the footy and were able to share it really well.  I wasn't overly happy with our second half, but the job was already done by then.

Their (PBC's) attack on the footy and their work rate was a lot better in the third quarter, but we continued on with what we were doing, but weren't as clean as we were in the first half"

Western Magpies                     6.5 - 41 | 13.5 - 83 | 17.8 - 110 | 19.10 - 124

defeated

Palm Beach Currumbin Lions  2.1 - 13 | 3.3 - 21 | 6.6 - 42 | 7.10 - 52

Best: C.Carseldine, R.Wenham, D.Lawrence, L.Scott, A.Dickfos, S.Copland

Goals: A.Dickfos 4, S.Copland 3, L.Woods, R.Wenham, M.Thompson 2, L.Mitchell, A.Maricic, B.Jeanke-Cain, D.Lawrence, B.Allen, M.Garland 1

METIS WEALTH Match Review - Reserves Round 15 vs Palm Beach

RESERVES IN STRONG WIN

The Western Magpies Reserves had a strong win over Palm Beach-Currumbin, winning by 47 points, 14.14 - 98 to 7.9 - 51.

The Pies were without several regular players due to injury but were bolstered by the inclusion of several experienced players, including 3 players backing up from the Woodsmen on Friday night. The Pies held their own early, but in a dominant second quarter were able to take a strong half time lead and then take control in the second half to win comfortably.

Young speedster Jake Heard used his pace and deadly left foot to drive the Pies forward and young Redland listed ruckman Liam Dwyer continues to play well in his third game back from injury and capped a good day with 3 goals. 

Matt Mazarolle has had a consistent year and just gets better each week, Gabe McKinnon across half back was again a fine player and must be well in the reckoning for Best and Fairest. Ben Hooper had another good game on half back and the wing and midfielder Bryce Crossley keeps motoring along to win plenty of the ball. 

The Pies welcomed new Dad Chris Mihalopoulos to help out and he celebrated with 4 goals and Jim Power returned for a cameo to boot 2 goals. 

Western Magpies            3.4 - 22 | 8.6 - 54 | 12.11 - 83 | 14.14 -98

defeated

Palm Beach Currumbin Lions 4.3 - 27 | 5.5 - 35 | 6.7 - 43 | 7.9 - 51

Best: J.Heard, L.Dwyer, G.McKinnon, B.Hooper, B.Crossley, M.Mazerolle

Goals: C.Mihaloplous 4, L.Dwyer 3, J.Heard, J.Power 2, W.Johnson, M.Vine, L.Murray 1

The Western Magpies are pleased to welcome Metis Wealth Management - as a proud 2015 community partner and financial sponsor.

As part of Metis Wealth's partnership with the Western Magpies, you can contact Daniel George for a free consultation, the first step to achieving your financial goals and create your plan.

Daniel will be holding a seminar on Wed 9th of September at the club, so don't miss out and make sure you attend to take the first steps to securing your future.