Western Magpies appoint new Senior Coach

The Western Magpies Football Club announces the appointment of Nathan Clarke as the Senior Coach for the remainder of the 2016 season. 

Nathan has an extensive and impressive background as both a player and coach, and has also been involved with the Western Magpies in recent years in a development and leadership capacity.

Nathan is a past Brisbane Lions player, listed from 2000 to 2002 during the golden era and also served as playing coach in the ACT for Eastlake Football Club for 6 seasons.  He then returned to the Brisbane Lions in a variety of roles, includingLions Academy Head Coach, Player Development Manager and also Reserves Coach where he coached the Lions to back to back NEAFL Premierships in 2011 and 2012.

A local to South East Queensland, Nathan has exceptional credentials to take on the role and we look forward to the remainder of the season ahead.

Player:

6 x AFL Appearances – Brisbane Lions

200+ Senior Appearances at State League Level in QLD and ACT

Coach:

Level 3 High Performance (AIS 2008)

Eastlake Senior Coach 2005 – 2009

Brisbane Lions Academy Coach 2010

Brisbane Lions Development & Leadership Manager 2011-2012

Brisbane Lions Reserves (NEAFL) Coach 2011-2012 (2 x Premiership)

Western Magpies Leadership Consultant 2015

Registered Physical Education Teacher

The club wishes to acknowledge the outstanding contribution from Glenn Humphrey who has resigned from the senior coaching position.  Glenn was in charge of the club during a transition period, as the Magpies moved from the old Division 1 competition, back to the reformed QAFL State League.  In 2014, a young Magpie outfit played some good, but inconsistent football to finish in 8th position with 5 wins and a number of close losses as the team tired late in the year.  In 2015, the Magpies showed their rapid development with a 15 win season to finish the Home & Away season in 2nd place before a disappointing finals exit.  Glenn was also instrumental off the field, attending club working bees and providing great leadership and initiative in the project to complete the new club rooms. 

The club thanks Glenn and Heather for their contribution, both on and off the field, and wish them well in the future.

24 Fit - Colts Review

COLTS MAKE IT 5 IN A ROW

The young Magpies traveled down the coast to take on Labrador in the early game on what turned out to be a good day for the footy Club.

The challenge was to keep the level of improvement going that we have seen the past month, and produce a brand of footy that will stand up against anyone, anywhere at any time.

Having entered the game short on some speed and running capacity, The Magpies needed to be direct, use the footy well, and share the workload if they were going to come out on top against a side that was touted as one of the favourites preseason. That’s exactly what they did, and the result was a solid victory by 55 points.  

The fact this side does not rely on 1 or 2 superstars, and needs all 22 to have an influence was on show when returning big man Alex Davila was struck down with what appears a reoccurrence of his ACL injury just 2 minutes into his first game back after first injuring it early last year. The clubs best wishes are with you mate and look no further thanBig Jonno Mason to see that it’s possible to make your way back after consecutive ACL’s . We will be there for support or guidance whenever needed, as this club does not drop off our guys when the going gets tough, we will rally and support you and we look forward to the day when we can announce you're back big fella!

With our skipper Dom Misso hobbled by a calf complaint, the midfield needed to have some guys stand up and Jimmy Gainsford, Damon Allen, Cal Grant & Tommy Roderick all lifted to give the regulars we had left in Liam Reynolds, Rory Johnson and Ruckman Aaron Highlands the support needed. Both Key Forwards in Mason and De Rooy presented all day and both finished with 4 goals. They were well supported by the fleet of small forwards Chae Lawson 2, Billy Johnson 2 and Phil Stumer. With tackling pressure and a real physical presence provided by Josh Senescall.

Ziggy Fisher continues his rapid development and seeing him take the game on is great to watch. I’m sure he’s got no idea what he’s about to do, but that’s the best thing about watching him play. Let’s hope we get to see him for many more years, as with a couple of years development, this lad has the ability to be absolutely anything. The settled backline of Vine, Smith and Luke continue to impress, it’s the 4th week in a row they have conceded 6 goals or less. That’s a quality effort. Ryan Vagne’s versatility was useful between half back, half forward and wing, as was Pat Renner, after a slow start he worked his way in to the game and had a good second half at half forward. It was great to see Jessie Rigsby-Jones back up and play for the Reserves as well. Big effort seeing as he had to play many more minutes than expected due to Alex going down.

The colts next play Aspley at Aspley 9.30 next Saturday Morning. All are welcome to come and have a look at the next wave of Senior Magpies developing nicely.

Magpies 13.9 - 87 defeated Tigers 4.8 - 32

Best: L.Reynolds, R.Johnson, D.Allen, J.Gainsford, C.Lawson, A.Highlands, J.De Rooy

Goals: Mason, De Rooy 4, Lawson, B.Johnson 2, Fisher 1

CK Group - Ressies Review

PIES RESERVES SUFFER ANOTHER BIG LOSS

The Western Magpies Reserves were given a football lesson by Labrador at Labrador on Saturday. The Pies were competitive for about half of the first quarter before being overwhelmed by a strong and bigger Labrador team containing several regular senior players returning from injury. Labrador won 21.11-137 to 3.5-23, inflicting the Magpies biggest defeat for over 10 years. 

The Pies were thrown into some disarray before the match with promising youngsters Charlie Pershouse and Lachie Dennis called into the Brisbane Lions NEAFL team for their match in Sydney and Todd Billing called into the Senior team.

The Pies had a crack early in the match but were beaten in the midfield and were back pedaling from then on. 

There were some good inclusions for the Magpies but the Pies' intensity dropped off quickly and they were second to the football from quarter time onwards.

Joel Workman continued his good form with plenty of effort and Jamie Page tried hard on a wing and he is being rewarded for regular training with improved form after not making the side earlier in the year.  Ricky Dudley continued to try hard to stem the tide across half back, Brodie Easton again picked up plenty of possessions in the midfield and drifted forward to boot 2 goals and Jadan Morton worked hard to plug the gaps.

Regular 2015 Senior player Sonny Aneet played his first match in 2016 for the Pies and quickly gained touch in a pleasing display.

The Magpies are still only 4 points out of the five and have a chance to get their season back on track when they host the winless UQ at Chelmer on Saturday. However,  the Pies will have to lift significantly after 2 disappointing matches in a row as the Red Lions will no doubt smell blood and will throw everything at the Magpies. 

Labrador 4.5 - 29 | 10.7 - 67 | 14.9 - 93 | 21.11 - 137

defeated

Magpies 1.1 - 7 | 2.2 - 14 | 2.2 - 14 | 3.5 - 23

Best: Workman, Page, Dudley, Easton, Morton, Aneet

Goals: Easton 2, Hubbert 1

METIS WEALTH MATCH REVIEW - PIES IN 1-POINT THRILLER

The Western Magpies have won a season defining contest overcoming defending Premiers Labrador by one point in a thrilling finish on Saturday afternoon at Labrador.  The Pies came from 11 points down with 3 minutes to play to kick 2 goals to steal a magnificent victory against a side that the Pies have found difficult to beat.

In fact this was the Magpies first win over Labrador at this level, and completes the full set as the Magpies have now defeated every side in the QAFL since their their admission in 2009-10 and re-admission from 2014 onwards.

The win was vital in the context of a congested QAFL ladder and a very even competition, with the Pies sitting mid table at 3-3.

The match was an arm wrestle from the first bounce to the final siren with the greatest margin being the Pies 15 point lead at the 10 minute mark of the second quarter. 

The Pies were lifted by the inclusion of Brent Staker and he did not let down on his debut with 3 important goals and being a strong target across half forward.

The Pies were rocked before that match with the withdrawal of key player Luke Scott with illness and were also missing Chris Hunt and Drew Mitchell with concussion. Todd Billing was called into the side after impressive Reserves form and did not let his team down with a solid match in defence against his old team where he was a regular senior player.

The match was a seesawing affair with the Pies getting on top in the second quarter only for the Tigers to fight back.  The third quarter was again goal for goal then in the final quarter it looked like Labrador would run away with it, but the Pies dug in and refused to go away and with 3 minutes to play David Lewis was felled by a stray elbow across half forward and had to leave the field with a nasty head gash so Ben Jaenke-Cain stepped up and drilled a 40 metre goal to give the Pies hope. 

A quick centre clearance resulted with the ball in the ever reliable Val Pope's hands and he kicked truly to give the Pies a 1 point lead.  The Pies were able to hold on in a tense final 90 seconds for a memorable victory. 

Midfield hard nut Gareth Crawford continues to get better each match to show why he is a multiple B & F winner in Victoria and was strong in the clinches all day, Cal Carseldine was back to his Grogan Medal winning best with a non stop display of contested football, Mitch Stallard showed why he is highly rated in midfield and across half forward and Brady Allen was good on a wing and is starting to be a consistent performer to the delight of his coaches who know what he is capable of. 

Dom Beer gave his usual sterling effort for 120 minutes in ruck and around the ground and Redlands based Matt Sondergeld was again busy around the contests and up forward. Young high flyer Sam Copland was also lively up forward on his return to the side. 

Brent Staker's inclusion gave the Magpies a big lift in confidence and they victory will be vital as the Pies get their season back on track. The Magpies host the winless, but improving UQ next Saturday before playing Morningside at Chelmer the following Sunday. The previously undefeated Morningside were surprisingly defeated by Surfers Paradise by 90 points on Saturday to throw the QAFL season wide open.

Labrador Tigers 3.1-19 | 8.3 - 51 | 10.5 - 65 | 12.9 - 81

defeated by

Western Magpies 3.4 - 22 | 7.6 - 48 | 9.8 - 62 | 12.10 - 82

Best: G.Crawford, C.Carseldine, M.Stallard, B.Allen, D.Beer, M.Sondergeld

Goals: B.Staker 3, D.Lewis, V.Pope 2, M.Sondergeld, B.Jeanke-Cain, D.Beer, J.Goodall, S.Copland

Coopers Player News - Doug Lawrence

Former Western Magpie key defender Doug Lawrence was named as the NEAFL Round 6 Rising Star after a fine performace for Aspley in their victory over Canberra on the weekend.

Lawrence had a stand out season for the Pies last year, being Runner-Up in the club's Best and Fairest and being named in the QAFL Team of the Year.

Lawrence played in the Pies first 2 matches before being called up for Aspley, which is a good effort as the Hornets back six has been solid and touted as the best in the NEAFL.

The following article appeared in the NEAFL website this week:

South African-born defender Doug Lawrence is still pinching himself at the thought of being offered a spot on Aspley’s star-studded NEAFL list.

The 20-year-old had been on the Hornets’ radar for the last couple of seasons before earning his opportunity in the NEAFL this year.

Recruited from the Western Magpies, Lawrence hit his strides in the QAFL last season where he earned the competition’s Rising Star nomination in Round 1.

Even more impressive in his rise up the ranks was the fact Lawrence spent two years out of the game while concentrating on his final years of high school.

When he returned to football in 2014 at age 18, he made his senior debut in Round 1, and hasn’t looked back since.

In just his fourth NEAFL game against the Canberra Demons last weekend, Lawrence was among the Hornets’ best in a 45-point victory, earning the Round 6 NEAFL Rising Star nomination as a result.

The 20-year-old said it’s still hard to believe how far he has come.

“I’ve always wanted to try and go as far as I could with it,” he said.

“I’ve got a very strict mum who didn’t want me to play rugby when we moved over to Australia, so that’s how I got into footy originally.

“In Year 11 and 12 my parents made me stop playing for two years. They said to play school sport while I could and to enjoy my last years of high school.

“Then I just wanted to get back into it so I joined the Magpies. They were a really good bunch of guys and that’s when I got that hunger back again.

“One thing led to another and now I’m at Aspley and trying to crack into the senior team and see where it goes from there.

“I guess that’s why I’m shocked (about the nomination), I’m still getting used to the fact I’m on Aspley’s list, let alone get a couple of NEAFL games for them.”

Lawrence was named for his NEAFL debut to replace star defender Michael Hutchinson in Round 3 against NT Thunder in Darwin.

His first assignment? Taking on three-time league goalkicking winner, Darren Ewing.

“I was pretty nervous. Well, that’s an understatement,” Lawrence said.

“I didn’t watch too many YouTube clips because everyone was telling me how good he was, and I knew aswell.

“It was a pretty unreal experience though. I was pretty happy with how I went on him. I know he kicked eight, but at least three were absolute ‘gimmies’.

“But it was really good to play on him and see someone as good as him goes about it. He constantly keeps you on your toes. He is so smart and knows how to use his body. To be honest, I probably wouldn’t have had it any other way. It was a good test.”

Lawrence has grabbed his opportunity with both hands, keeping his place in the side ever since.

With Aspley set to miss Gavin Grose and Hutchinson for an extended period of time, Lawrence will have every chance to further his development at NEAFL level.

“After my first game (against NT Thunder in Darwin) I was a bit shaky. But when you’ve got some of the guys like ‘Bourkey’ (Jordon Bourke), Jack Stanley and Jackson Allen around – even when Gav and ‘Hutchy’ have gone – I’ve been feeling a lot more comfortable each game.

“It’s just basically about starting to believe in myself a bit more. As a backline, I think we are clicking. There are a few new faces around, so everyone is starting to gel a bit better. I definitely felt comfortable on the weekend.”

The Rising Star is awarded to the most promising young talent in the NEAFL competition.

Nominees must be under the age of 21 and played less than 20 senior games at the start of the 2016 season.

PLACE PREVIEW - COLTS LOOK FOR 5 IN A ROW

The young Magpies are on the road this week playing the early game at Labrador.

  It's a new challenge and will be a stern test against a side that saves it's best for home games. 

  With 4 wins on the trot, the young Magpies head in to this game with some solid form, but know that they have much improvement to come . The depth will be tested as injuries to key running players  Gore & Green ,the elevation to the Reserves of Morrison and the departure of Fletcher to the Lions NEAFL side has put a dent in the midfield that will need to be covered by the existing fleet of midfielders Reynolds, Misso, R Johnson and Co. 

  The return of Big Alex Davila from almost a full year out with and ACL is a great boost for the boys and a reward for his dedication to rehab and continued commitment to the club and squad. Up until now he has been the team’s runner, and has looked like a 6ft 7in pink lipstick at times , but we know where he would rather be and he has worked extremely hard to get back playing !

   This is a danger game, but if the  lads have the correct mindset, each plays their role, and they go at it for the full 4 quarters, they have every chance to put win number 5 on the board. 

Western Magpies Colts v Labrador at Labrador at 9.30 am on Saturday, May 14th

Smith Vine Luke

Renner Fisher Roderick

Grant Misso. B Johnson

Senescall Mason Vagne 

Stumer  DeRooy. Lawson

Ruck: Highlands  Reynolds  R Johnson

Int : Gainsford, Allen, Davila, Rigsby- Jones. 

24 Fit - Late Mail! - Changes to Reserves Side

Young stars Lachie Dennis and Charlie Pershouse have been called into the Brisbane Lions NEAFL team for their match against Sydney University in Sydney on the weekend.

As a result, both will be unavailable for the Reserves match vs Labrador.

Likely changes will be Matt Davis and Sam Donovan.

Sci Fleet Taringa - Reserves Preview

The Western Magpies Reserves will try to put an ordinary performance last week behind them and bounce back against an equally vulnerable Labrador at Labrador on Saturday.

The Pies have not met their pre-season expectations but neither have last year's Premiers Labrador who have quickly come back to the field this year--the Tigers are on 3 wins and the Pies are at 2-3 after 5 rounds. The third placed team on the ladder is only on 3 wins so the Pies can really kick start their season with a victory on Saturday.

The Pies have five big inclusions in ruckman/forward Jadan Morton back from the Seniors, key defender Todd Billing, half back Luke de Nys, midfielder Blake McClennan and speedy winger Sonny Aneet returns to the club.  The outs are Alex Dickfos back to Seniors, Hunter Heath and Jesse Pukallus both injured and youngters Sam Donovan and Matt Davis omitted.

Morton will add grunt in the ruck and with de Nys and McClennan both class players and likely to join the midfield mix the Pies look stronger than in recent weeks. McClennan has had plenty of Senior experience but has had a delayed start to the season due to a niggling injury and will be jumping out of his skin to help lift the Pies.

Aneet provided plenty of leg speed to the Pie Seniors last year and it is good to see him back and he will give the midfield a boost.

It should have been a long week for the Magpies at training after an underwhelming performance last week and if there is any pride in the team they will bounce back hard to seek redemption and prove last week was an aberration.

Coach Quentin Johnson was bitterly disappointed in the effort from his side last week and will no doubt have laid down the law this week about what is required to be successful at this level.

There are a number of positional changes as well with the backline reorganised and it looks particularly strong with the return of Billing and the experienced Chris Devlin moving into defence. Ricky Dudley has been exceptional in his first year at the club and should continue his good form.

Joel Workman has been rewarded with solid form to start in the middle and the experienced Matt Hockley at CHF will marshall promising youngsters in Lachie Dennis, Dom Morrison and Charlie Pershouse to give the forward line a bit of youthful exuberence.

The Magpies season hangs in the balance and in a vital match must lift significantly to get the four points against a Labrador side that is not the same team as last year. 

Western Magpies Reserves v Labrador at Labrador at 11.30 am on Saturday, May 14th

B:  Chris DevlinSean McEvoy (VC)  Gabe McKinnon (Co-Capt)

HB: Ricky Dudley Todd Billing Jae Humphrey

C: Sonny AneetJoel Workman Jamie Page

HF:   Lachlan DennisMatt Hockley (Co-Capt.) Dom Morrison

F: Stuart HubbertCharlie Pershouse Blake McClennan

Rucks: Jadan Morton, Matt Mazarolle

Rover: Brodie Easton

I/c:  Josh Burton, Trent Walker, Geoff Gibb, Luke de Nys

Emerg: Matt Davis, Michael Hyndman, Sam Donovan

PLACE PREVIEW - STAKER TO 'DEBUT' VS TIGERS

Off season recruit, and former West Coast Eagle/Brisbane Lion -  Brent Staker is a big "in"  for the Western Magpies when they travel to the Gold Coast to play the 2015 Premiers Labrador. Staker comes into the Magpie side for his first match after suffering a hamstring injury in the pre-season.

Both the Pies and Labrador are not where they expected to be at this stage of the season so this game is another one in the category of a "must win match".

Staker adds not only skill but experience to the Pies side and will demand attention from the opposition hopefully freeing up another star Magpie eslewhere. Staker has been slotted to play at centre half back but expect him to spend some time up forward during the game.

Also into the side are full forward Alex Dickfos who has recovered from a viral illness and was asked to play Reserves last week after missing 2 weeks of training due to his illness. That said Dickfos has not reached the heights of last year and needs to get back to his bullocking and goal kicking best to give the Pies the lift they need up forward.

Also into the side is Sam Copland who returns from Queensland Under 18 dutties and will give the Pies forward line a lift.

On the debit side the Pies lose key defender Chris Hunt and strong midfielder Drew Mitchell, both with concussion after suffering head knocks last match, and Jadan Morton goes back to the Reserves.

The Pies were smashed in the outside run and on transition last week and as a result were second to the ball and looked reactive. This can be rectified with increased workload both with and without the football and coach Glenn Humphrey has emphasised the importance of winning the midfield battles. Nick Barling looked to be getting back to form in the ruck with some beautiful taps after half time and he will need to continue this form to give the Pies first use of the football. 

Brady Allen was one player to hold his head high last week and while he was good he always looks like he can rip a game apart at any time but has yet to do so. This Saturday may be just the match where he can lift even further and become the match-winning dominant player he threatens to be. 

With Mitchell out, the Pies have moved Lachie Woods back into the midfield mix and added Mitch Stallard as well to give some outside pace.

Luke Scott to CHF is a good move and with Val Pope and Jack Goodall either side of him the Pies forward power looks potent but only if given good delivery.

The Pies have been stung hard by losses in the past two matches and know their season hangs in the balance so will be fired up for a big game against a Tigers side which will be equally desperate.

For two sides struggling compared to pre-season predictions this match is a big one and still deserves "Match of the Day" status.

Western Magpies v Labrador at Labrador on Saturday, May 14th at 2.00 pm

B: Luke MitchellRhys BridgeRichard Wenham 

HB: Matt DavisBrent Staker Tim McEvoy

C: Brady Allen  Callum Carseldine (Co-Capt.) Aaron Maricic (R)

HF: Jack Goodall (R)  Luke ScottVal Pope

F: Matt Sondergeld (R) Alex DickfosSam Copland

Rucks:  Dom Beer, Ben Jaenke-Cain 

Rover: Gareth Crawford

I/C  Nick Barling, Mitchell Stallard, Lachlan Woods (Co-Capt), David Lewis

Coopers Fan Profile - Mark Milne

Mark Milne is a regular face down at the nest, watching his beloved Western Magpies - but what you may not know, is that Mark is a Pies supporter with a difference!

Mark is also a former elite sportsman himself, representing Australia at the 1988 Seoul Paralympics in both 7-a-side soccer and shot put.

Mark was the Skipper of the Soccer team, who finished 5th to narrowly miss out on a medal and he also finished a creditable 6th in the shot put.  He was classed as a C8 athlete, which is a cerebral palsy classification for athletes retaining a good level of mobility.

Mark was already an elite soccer player before suffering injuries in a car accident in 1985 just 4 months before his 21st Birthday.  Mark reflects that he was forced off the road by a car on the wrong side, and as a result he hit a power pole and suffered and acquired brain injury.

Before the accident he was a member of the Brisbane Lions team, playing as a sweeper when they were in the then National Soccer League (NSL).

His longtime connection with the Magpies involves playing at Sherwood as a youngster with some of his good mates, before his talent for the round ball game saw him pursue that sport at the highest level in Australia at the time.

If you see Mark around the footy club, be sure to say g'day and chat to him about his own impressive sporting career, as he was certainly a very special talent both before and after his accident. 

Place Match Review - Improving Colts get the job done

The Western Magpies Colts kicked off the day with a solid win over rivals PBC by 38pts.

It was built on an excellent first half, with the forward press and full ground pressure the team applied proving too much for PBC. The result of this was a 38 point half time lead. It should have been even better than that, but missed opportunities, and a desire to share the footy around, meant some excellent work from the backline and midfield , who were both well on top, wasn't exploited fully.

The forwards were not bad by any stretch of the imagination, and with a focus on the press and pressure inside the forward 50 it's understandable that some attacking fluency wasn't quite as it should be.

The highlights were forcing many turnovers from PBC's kick out's ,the ruck work of both Highlands and Rigsby-Jones, the constant power running of the midfield group led by Reynolds, Misso, R Johnson , Fletcher & Gainsford, both key defenders Vine and Fisher, hard ball work of Smith , Roderick and Renner, and the pressure and crumbing work forward of centre from Lawson, Stumer and B Johnson.
 

Both big key forwards worked tirelessly with Mason being targeted constantly by PBC and he must be commended on keeping fairly cool whilst being harassed by multiple opponents.

A flat second half was proof the Colts still have much to work on and having improved fitness to bury sides when in a strong position as they we were at half time is the next step for these talented lads.

Magpies 11.14 - 80 defeated PBC Lions 6.6 - 42

Best: Reynolds, Misso, Vine, Smith, R.Johnson, Rigsby-Jones

Goals: Reynolds 3, Lawson, Stumer, De Rooy 2, Mason, Misso 1
 

Body Key Chiropractic - Ressies Review

PIES RESERVES BLOWN AWAY

The Western Magpies Reserves were blown away by a more determined and strong Palm Beach-Currumbin at Chelmer on Saturday. The Pies were disappointing in the loss and looked disinterested and their efforts were below what is required and expected at this level. 

Subsequently they were beaten by 98 points, 18.14-122 to 3.6-24. 

The Pies were slow to start and had 5 goals kicked against them before they knew it and never recovered.  

They were second to the ball, fumbled and were smashed on the transition.

From all reports numbers at training have been less than desired and this is reflected on what occurs on a Saturday. The Pies on paper looked a good side but with Alex Dickfos injured early it did throw the side out up forward. 

The Pies were goalless to half time.

Players who did show the required effort were Joel Workman, who was given more time in the midfield, Jamie Page, Gabe McKinnon and Ricky Dudley in defence trying to stem the tide, Brodie Easton continued his recent good form in the centre and new player Stuart Hubbert in his first season of AFL showed some fight in the clinches.

Magpies 0.2 - 2 | 0.6 - 6 | 1.6 - 12 | 3.6 - 24

defeated by

Palm Beach 5.4 - 34 | 9.8 - 62 | 14.9 - 93 | 18.14 - 122

Best: Workman, Dudley, Page, Easton, McKinnon, Hubbert

Goals: Dickfos, Pershouse, Pukallus

METIS WEALTH MATCH REVIEW - PIES GO DOWN IN CLASSY CONTEST

The Western Magpies were beaten by a speedy and vastly improved Palm Beach-Currumbin at Chelmer on Saturday,  the Pies were defeated by 38 points 19.15-129 to 14.7-91.

The match was a high class affair with the Lions getting a break on the Pies late in the second quarter which they were able to hold onto for the remainder of the match. The visitors were good in transition and had several speedsters who troubled the Pies with their pace and penetrating kicking.

The Lions were able to score 3 cheap late second quarter goals when the ball squirted out the back of the pack deep in the Pies defence, allowing the Lions to grubber them through from the ground inside the goal square which disappointed the coaching staff. 

The Lions skipped to an 8 goal lead mid way through the third quarter but the Pies fought back with 3 goals to give faint hope of a comeback late in the quarter but PBC always had an answering goal to dampen the Pies hopes.   

The Magpies were beaten by a better side on the day but their effort and hardness at the contest was back to the expected high standard this team had set for themselves over the past 18 months. 

The Pies were down to 20 fit men by the last quarter with both Chris Hunt and Drew Mitchell suffering head knocks in the second quarter--Hunt was subbed out and Mitchell returned to the fray but struggled as a result and was taken from the ground early in the final quarter. 

Rhys Bridge in the last line of defence was a fine player with numerous intercept marks and strong spoiling.

Jack Goodall kept presenting at CHF despite a couple of heavy knocks and was rewarded with 4 goals, Brady Allen had his best game for the year working hard back then injecting forward when needed. Richard Wenham returned to his best after several weeks out with hard running and defensive work across half back and in midfield. 

Ben Jaenke-Cain and Gareth Crawford also won plenty of the ball and Luke Scott ranged far and wide up forward to boot 3 goals.  

Senior Coach, Glenn Humphrey had this to say:

“We were just outplayed. They were very good around the stoppages, well organised, and simply outplayed us on the day.

“I think our defensive work was very good at times, as was our offence when we got out the other side of the ground, but they had more use of the football.”

The Pies depth will be tested when they travel to Labrador next Saturday with both Hunt and Mitchell in doubt in what will be a big game for the Pies in the context of the season.  

Western Magpies 4.1 - 25 | 7.4 - 46 | 12.4 - 76 | 14.7 - 91

defeated by

Palm Beach Lions 5.4 - 34 | 10.7 - 67 | 17.13 - 115 | 19.15 - 129

Best: Goodall, Bridge, Allen, Scott, Wenham, Jeanke-Cain

Goals: Goodall, 4, Scott, 3, Lewis 2, Sondergeld, Stallard, Maricic, Pope, Morton

PLACE PREVIEW - LIONS TO SUFFER PIES WRATH

The Western Magpies have 2 weeks of pent-up frustration from their fade-out last match and it will be Palm Beach-Currumbin who will suffer the wrath of the Pies at Chelmer on Saturday. 

The Pies have had 2 weeks to ruminate on the loss to Broadbeach and from all reports are champing at the bit to have a red hot crack at the Lions and not only restore their pride but also put the Pies season back on track. 

A resurgent PBC have recruited well this season and are 3-1 with their only loss to Morningside after leading late in the match.  

The Magpies usually need no extra motivation when they play the Lions but this Saturday they will be more fired up than usual.

Magpies Co-captain Callum Carseldine rated a win in this match as "critical" to the Pies season. He reassured the Pies faithful that his side will be up for the challenge and if training is to go by then they will come out firing.

The Pies were put through a hard running week last week and then plenty of contested football at training this week and Carseldine says the intensity at training had lifted several notches.

He said if the Pies put together four quarters of football then they can beat any team in the competition and is confident the Magpies will win on Saturday. 

The Magpies' changes this week see ruckman Nick Barling come in after missing last match with back pain with debutante Luke deNys out unavailable. Also in is Richard Wenham after one match in Reserves after missing with concussion and full forward Alex Dickfos goes back to the Reserves to find some form after an indifferent start to the season.

Jaden Morton goes to CHF and Luke Scott to full back but supporters can envisage these roles to be reversed at some point in the game with Scott good when up forward last match.

Redlands listed forwards Jack Goodall and Matt Sondergeld were good last game and will be keen to continue their good form in an effort to put their names in front of the Redlands selectors.

Luke Mitchell has had a great start to the season and will look to again provide intercepts and run from the backline.

The Pies were beaten in midfield last match and this would have been galling for the midfield rotations of Cal Carseldine, Ben Jaenke-Cain, Tim McEvoy, Gareth Crawford and Drew Mitchell and expect them to come out firing on Saturday. Barling into the ruck will help out Dom Beer who shouldered a heavy workload last match.

Val Pope was down a bit last game and he will be looking to get back to form again to improve the Pies forward power and David Lewis at full forward is a good lead and mark and will give the Pies a good option going forward.

This season shapes as an even competition with no easy matches and any lapses can prove costly as proved a fortnight ago.

Coach Glenn Humphrey recovered from the disappointment of that loss to oversee a team desperate to atone and expect the Pies to be ferocious at the contest for the full 120 minutes. 

Western Magpies v Palm Beach-Currumbin at Chelmer  on Saturday May 7th at 2.00 pm

B: Luke Mitchell  Luke Scott   Rhys Bridge   

HB: Matt Davis  Chris HuntLachlan Woods (Co-Capt)

C: Brady Allen  Callum Carseldine (Co-Capt.) Aaron Maricic (R)

HF: Mitchell Stallard, Jaden MortonVal Pope

F: Matt Sondergeld (R) David LewisJack Goodall (R) 

Rucks:  Dom Beer, Ben Jaenke-Cain

Rover: Drew Mitchell

I/C  Nick Barling, Tim McEvoy, Gareth Crawford, Richard Wenham

24 Fit - Reserves Preview

PIES RESERVES LOOK TO BOUNCE BACK

The Western Magpies Reserves will look to bounce back from a last round defeat when they meet old rivals Palm Beach-Currumbin on Saturday. The Pies are 2-2 while PBC look to have improved this year and are 3-1 after 4 rounds.

The Pies have been strengthened with the inclusion of regular senior full forward Alex Dickfos and half back Ricky Dudley.

Dickfos will be looking to regain the form that had him kicking 60 goals in the Seniors in 2015 and the experienced Dudley comes back after a slight muscle strain last match. Also in is smart young goalsneak Dom Morrison who has been in impressive form in the Colts.

Out are Richard Wenham promoted to the Seniors and Kurt Vine and Billy Johnson back to the Colts.

The Pies forward line looks strong with Matt Hockley at CHF and in full fitness after playing last match with illness. Dickfos will be a strong target and youngster Charlie Pershouse also provides a tall target with strong hands.

Another youngster in Geoff Gibb is showing good signs in ruck and Brodie Easton and Joel Workman should win plenty of midfield ball. Easton leads theseason possession countbut needs to make these more effective with more penetrating kicking, especially with Dickfos and Hockley as targets.

The Pies defence looks solid with a strong half back line of Dudley, Sean McEvoy and Gabe McKinnon and they will be keys to the Pies winning the match.

The Magpies will want to win to keep in touch the ladder leaders and with  coach Quentin Johnson having a more settled side will expecthis team to put in a big effort to gain the 4 points

Western Magpies Reserves v Palm Beach-Currumbin at Chelmer at 11.30 am on Saturday, May 7th

B:  Jae Humphrey Todd Billing  Jamie Page

HB: Ricky Dudley - Sean McEvoy (VC) - Gabe McKinnon (Co-Capt.)

C: Lachlan Dennis - Chris Devlin -  Hunter Heath

HF: Charlie Pershouse - Matt Hockley (Co-Capt.) - Jesse Pukallus

F: Stuart Hubbert - Alex Dickfos -  Matt Mazarolle

Foll: Geoff Gibb - Joel Workman - Brodie Easton

I/c:  Josh Burton -  Sam Donovan - Trent Walker - Dom Morrison

Emerg: Matt Davis, Michael Hyndman, James Gainford

Sci-Fleet Taringa - Colts Preview

PIES COLTS lOOK TO CONSOLIDATE IN TOP FOUR
The Western Magpies Colts have the opportunity to kick start the day for the footy club with a win this week as they meet Palm Beach-Currumbin at Chelmer at 9.30 am

After 3 wins on the trot, the young Magpies will be looking to consolidate their top 4 place with a victory over another top 4 contender. PBC have won 2 and lost one this season.

It shapes as the toughest test yet for the squad, and will be a great chance to see how much they have improved since the start of the year.

Again there are a few changes , Ash Gore out with a burst appendix, Josh Senescall & Jaiden Johnston - Bates unavailable and the team congratulates Dom Morrison on his well deserved promotion to the Reserves.

Coach Justin Gore is looking for a continuation of the hard contested footy that allows the fleet of slick runners to produce the exciting brand of footy that has earned the Colts wins in the last 3 rounds.

Come on down and have some brunch while you check out the next wave of senior Magpies strut there stuff at the nest this Saturday morning.

B: Thomas Luke - Kurt Vine - Cameron Smith

HB:  Ryan Vagne - Zeleke Fisher - Pat Renner

C:  Connor Green - Dom Misso © - Damon Allen

HF: Will Fletcher - John Mason - Billy Johnson

F: Phil Stumer - Jeremy de Rooy - Chae Lawson

Foll: Aaron Highlands - Rory Johnson - Liam Reynolds

I/C: James Gainford, Jesse Rigsby-Jones,  Callum Grant, Tom Rodrick

CK GROUP - PRESIDENT'S LUNCHEON - TRIBUTE TO JEFF LANGDON

Sherwood/Western Magpies President Kevin Kluver will host a President's Luncheon at 12 noon on Saturday when the Western Magpies host Palm Beach-Currumbin at Chelmer in Round 5 of QAFL football.

The Magpies will also celebrate the life of 1977-78 premiership player Jeff Langdon who passed away recently at 72 years of age after a short illness.

Langdon was a larger than life character who Kevin says was a cross between Phil Carman and Warwick Capper which made him a flamboyant but classy player in anyone's books.  

He was best on ground in Sherwood's 1977 premiership win over Mt Gravatt but was so exhausted after the game he was taken to hospital and put on a drip. He was also best and fairest winner in 1977. He played 88 matches for the Pies. He started at Wests Juniors then came across to Sherwood as a 14 year old. 

Jeff was a burst player who would turn it on for 10 minutes then would have a spell and turn it on again and again. It later transpired he had a heart valve problem and had a valve transplant 10 years ago.

After football he was a well renowned horseman with harness racing and went to New Zealand to train horses then returned to Brisbane and trained numerous winners on the Gold Coast and at Albion Park. He became the head farrier at Albion Park, a position he held for many years.  

Kevin Kluver relates a story that Jeff said he couldn't keep playing because it was too hard on his body and when Kevin asked him what he was going to do he said do some buck jumping at rodeos!!

He was also the lead singer with a well known rock band in Brisbane and did covers of the Rolling Stones. Kevin said he was an entertainer both on and off the field-- a singer and a cross between Carmen and Capper, he must have been an entertainer!!    

Kevin expects 10-15 players from the 1977-78 era to be at the tribute.

The club also offers a welcome and extends its sympathies to Jeff's two daughters Lisa and Tammy, his son Stephen, his brother Kenny and their families. 

BodyKey Chiropractic - Colts Review

COLTS THE SHINING LIGHT UNDER LIGHTS

The Western Magpies Colts were the shining light for the Pies when they easily defeated Caloundra under lights at Chelmer on Saturday evening. The Pies won by 99 points, 18.10-118 to 3.1-19.

The first quarter started with Caloundra, with 2 wins from 2 matches,  throwing out the challenge to the Pies before the Pies booted a couple of late goals to grab a 2 goal lead at quarter time.

The Pies got in top in the second quarter with a dominant midfield and a rebounding half back line to give their forwards plenty of opportunities to kick goals. The Pies dominated the second half to run out strong winners to be in the top half of the ladder after 4 matches.  

While both teams went into the encounter at less than full strength, the depth of the Pies Colts squad was on display as the 20 that took the field Saturday afternoon proved far to good for the visitors. The ball movement, commitment to the team one percentersand the improvement in the players'  fitness, allowed them to control the game right the way through.

After a tight first few minutes, the Magpies pressure around the contest and work to create space and time for the ball carrier saw them start to dominate through half back and the midfield. The tall forwards John Mason and Jeremy DeRooy enjoyed some good delivery and smart small forward Chae Lawson was having a field day feeding off any crumbs the talls didn't mark. The result was for the first time this year was more goals than points, a much better reward for the efforts of the team further up the field.

A slight change in how the midfield set up, with players placed there specifically to provide a physical contest and work to make sure our ball carriers , Reynolds, Misso, Stumer, Gainsford, Grant & Morrison had time and space to use their speed and skill. Credit goes Gore, Senescall, Green, Allen , and new player Tom Roderick , (who showed he will be a nice addition to the squad.) for the way they worked in close to create that space.

The backline stood up well, and while the scoreline may not show it, there was a bit to do and Tommy Luke, Pat Renner, Cam Smith, played close and tight, while also attacking when the time was right. Highlands and Fisher's ruck tandem continues to grow in strength. With Fisher showing glimpses of his exciting potential , and Highlands continuing his fine form which would have him high up in the B&F voting at present . Special mention also goes to fullback Kurt Vine and midfielder Billy Johnson for backing up after playing solid game time in the Reserves.

The Colts now head into the break with confidence , but there is still much work to be done.. Continued focus on fitness will see less injuries and provide a more stable squad to select from. There have been at least five each week and and the next month will be tough with all matches against expected finalists. It will shape the season and give the Pies Colts a true indication of where they sit in the pecking order. 

Magpies Colts 18.10 - 118 defeated Caloundra 3.1 - 19

Best: J.Gainford, C.Grant, J.Mason, D.Morrison, A.Gore, L.Reynolds

Goals: J.Mason, C.Lawson, D.Allen 3, D.Morrison, L.Reynolds, J.Gainford 2, P.Stumer, K.Vine, C.Grant 1

24 Fit - Ressies Review

RESERVES DOWN IN TIGHT CONTEST

The Western Magpies Reserves were defeated by 12 points by Broadbeach in a tight contest at Chelmer on Saturday. The Pies again had to re-jig the side from the selected side and there have been significant changes every week, impacting on continuity for the team.

The Pies also had to make late changes with half back Ricky Dudley not coming up after tweaking a leg at training and Luke de Nys getting a call up to the Seniors, with skipper Matt Hockley coming in after passing a fitness test and booting 3 goals for the match. 

The Pies, like the Seniors, had plenty of the ball in the first half but also did not capitalise on their possession and Broadbeach took advantage.

The Pies still had a chance to win the match late in the last quarter but the Cats made the most of their chances to kick a couple of goals on the rebound after turnovers across the Pies half forward line.

Vice captain Sean McEvoy was strong in the last line of defence and had support from Jamie Page, who continues to get better in his second season of AFL, with Richard Wenham getting plenty of ball in midfield on his return from injury. 

Joel Workman also worked hard in midfield and across half forward and with Wenham will be better for the game after interrupted starts to the season.

Brodie Easton continues to get plenty of the football in the centre and works hard backwards and Hunter Heath also played well on a wing. Youngster Lachie Dennis also did some good thingsto be one to watch for the future.

Coach Quentin Johnson was happy with his team's efforts but again lamented the missed opportunities early. He said getting consistency with his team having multiple changes each week has been a challenge. 

Magpies 3.2 - 20 | 5.4 - 34 | 8.5 - 53 | 10.8 - 68

lost to

Broadbeach 2.5 - 17 | 5.11 - 41 | 8.12 - 60 | 11.14 - 80

Best: S.McEvoy, B.Easton, H.Heath, J.Workman, R.Wenham, J.Page

Goals: M.Hockley 3, L.Dennis, C.Pershouse 2, S.Hubbert, C.Devlin, J.Workman

METIS WEALTH MATCH REVIEW - PIES SNATCH DEFEAT FROM JAWS OF VICTORY

The Western Magpies threw the four points away when they blew a 5 goal halftime lead to be overrun in the last quarter to go down by 8 points against Broadbeach at Chelmer on Saturday. The Cats kicked a goal on the siren to win 14.11-95 to 12.15-87.

The Pies dominated the first half and should have had the game well and truly won at halftime with 36 inside 50s to the Cats 14. The Pies were wasteful in front of goal and it came back to haunt them in the final analysis. 

The Pies were shell-shocked at the end of the game where they were the better side for most of the first three quarters of the match. The old adage of "not giving a sucker an even break" was never a truer statement as the Pies left the door ajar for the Cats who started to win the mid-field contested ball then took control in the last 15 minutes to boot 5 goals and stun the home crowd into silence.

The Pies called up Luke de Nys for his first senior match as Doug Lawrence was re-called to Aspley. The Pies were up and about early and dominated possession and forward 50 entries but the tale of the day began early with gettable shots on goal going begging. Luke Scott started up forward and turned his opponent inside out 3 or 4 times to boot 2 early goals and set up another. Matt Sondergeld was busy and Mitch Stallard in his return match was getting plenty of the ball across half forward but also missed a couple of shots at goal. Scott was part of a rotation from half back to the forward line with Matt Davis and perhaps in retrosect he should have stayed forward as he always looked dangerous. Davis also played well up forward but played a different role to Scott.

The second quarter saw the Pies again dominate but were unable to capitalise on this and instead of being 7-8 goals up at the long break had just a 31 point lead which still kept the door ajar for the Cats and didn't reflect the dominance of the half.

The Pies intensity dropped off in the third quarter and Broadbeach closed the gap to 2 goals before the Pies regrouped with goals to Stallard and Jadan Morton had the margin at 4 goals at the final break.

Several perplexing umpiring decisions in the third and fourth quarters resulted in turnarounds and the Cats kicked 2 goals from these and it seemed to upset the Pies concentration and reversed the momentum of the game.

The Cats started to win the midfield battles and with early centre clearances booted 2 goals and it was game on. The Pies got 2 back and with 15 minutes to go the Pies still led by 4 goals but the Cats surged and with more run opened up the Pies defence and closed the gap. The Pies still led into time-on but poor decision making in pressure situations with short kicking to contests and missed targets resulted in turnovers which the visitors exploited.

Luke Scott was the Pies best whether up forward or across half back with 3 goals, Jack Goodall presented all day across half forward in his best match for the Pies, Reece Bridge mopped up well in the last line of defence and his depseration in spoiling at the marking contest was a highlight. Matt Sondergeld had plenty of the ball and Gareth Crawford worked hard all day in close. Alex Dickfos also presentedall day but just could not hold on to some of his grabs. Mitch Stallard also justified his inclusion and booted 3 goals and Luke de Nys played well and was not out of place across half back.

Coach Glenn Humphrey was bitterly disappointed in the loss and lamented his team's inability to slow the game down late in the final quarter and close out the victory.

The Magpies have 2 weeks to lick their wounds before they face old enemy Palm Beach-Currumbin before an expected big crowd at Chelmer as President Kevin Kluver will host a President's luncheon before the match.

Western Magpies 3.6 - 24 | 8.12 - 60 | 10.14 - 74 | 12.15 - 87

defeated by

Broadbeach Cats 1.2 - 8 | 4.5 - 29 | 7.8 - 50 | 14.11 - 95

Best: L.Scott, J.Goodall, R.Bridge, M.Sondergeld, G.Crawford, A.Dickfos

Goals: L.Scott, M.Stallard 3, M.Sondergeld, V.Pope, J.Morton, A.Dickfos, L.Woods, M.Davis