Flashback Friday - Magpies Best 50 of first 50!

With the Western Magpies / Sherwood Magpies celebrating their 60th anniversary tomorrow night in a gala event - we have decided to re-publish the best 50 players of the first 50 years as published in 2006.

Top players of the first 50 years—1956-2006

The Club has produced a huge number of excellent footballers over the past fifty years. On the occasion of the club’s celebration dinner to commemorate these first fifty years the top fifty players selected by a panel of club officials were announced. This is to some extent a subjective process so there are arguably many other players who might also have got a look in.

David Dalgarno
Captain of the Club’s first premiership team – 1958 U14s. Dave played over 200 QAFL games and was captain of Western Districts at the ripe old age of 20. Later in his career he also coached the team. Dave also captained the Queensland team that defeated Canberra and NSW in 1966.

Ray Smith
Ray played junior football with Sherwood until U14s – at that stage the Club didn’t go any further. Then he went to Brisbane Grammar School where he became a top rugby union player as well. But he was also playing senior football for Western Districts at 16 years of age. His ambition was always to play in the VFL.  He played for Queensland in the centre. There was a law at that stage that classed Queensland, NSW and the ACT as development states. Players from these states and territory were not allowed to go to the VFL because that was seen as detracting from the pool of talent in those areas. So in 1970 Ray decided to play rugby league for Valleys which at the time was the strongest club. These were the days when they used to get 30-40,000 people to Lang Park. Ray ended up playing in the centres for Valleys, represented Brisbane in the old Bulimba Cup, played in the premiership side and got beaten for the Brisbane Player of the Year on a countback (the prize was a car). He was being spoken about as a good chance of being selected in the Australian side for the following year when he stunned everybody in league circles by announcing that he was going to the VFL the following year. He was able to do this because as a rugby league player the VFL couldn’t stop him. In 1971 he was signed by Essendon becoming Sherwood’s second VFL player. He was the first Queenslander to play 100 games in the VFL and it was another 25 years before the next Queenslander Jason Dunstall did it. His brothers Tony, Bruce and Craig all played for Sherwood as well.

Trevor Hellyer
Trevor played in the Club’ s first premiership team in 1958. He played over 100 QAFL games with Western Districts. His father Bill was a foundation committee member.

Alan Hunter
Alan was Sherwood’s first player to make it into the VFL. He played from 1964 to 1967 with Footscray. He was a quick, high marking forward. His father Bill was the Club’s first President.

Dr Alan McKenzie
Alan played his junior football with Sherwood before joining Western Districts. He was a classy rover and represented Queensland. Alan has been a driving force as President of Southport for over 30 years. 

Greg O’Neill
Greg was runner up in the Grogan Medal in his first year of senior football as a teenager. Tragically, his playing days were cut short by a terrible leg injury.

Romas Jakavicius (Senior)
Romas was a tough, aggressive half back flanker. He played over 100 games with Western Districts before returning to Sherwood to be a premiership player in 1977.

John Lynch
John also played in the Club’s first premiership team. He was a classy left foot wingman who notched up over 100 games with Western Districts.

Rob Shepherd
Rob played all his junior football with Sherwood. He started in the U10s and played through to the U17s. Rob was not a standout player early. In fact he played in the B teams at Sherwood until U13s. Then he grew in confidence and by 16 was a brilliant player with superb skills and balance. In 1972 he was selected in the Queensland Secondary Schools team to compete at the Australian carnival and he went on to win the coveted J J Williams medal for the best and fairest player at those titles. He won the Western Districts Club’s Best and Fairest in his first year in 1974. He became the Club’s third VFL player when he was signed by Fitzroy where he went on to play 52 games spanning 1975 to 1977. Illness cut short an outstanding career and he returned home and did not play for a year. He then resumed at Western Districts and once again showed his great ability, helping that Club win the 1977 QAFL Premiership. Owing to a work promotion in the oil industry Rob moved to Sydney and with that move his football days were finished. Those Sherwood people who had the pleasure to see Rob play will remember not only his skill but also his great sportsmanship. 

Colin Kimmorley
Colin played his junior football with the Club and was twice selected in All Australian teams, the second time as Captain. He was the Club’s fourth VFL player. He had a short career with Collingwood before injuring his knee. This required a reconstruction. He represented Queensland in 1974, 1975 and 1978. He was a premiership player with Western Districts and later in his career returned to Sherwood as coach, winning the Leach Motors All Comers pre season competition against reigning premiers Wests, and following this up with the 1979 SQAFA premiership.

Zig Mataya
Zig was a strong marking ruckman and was the Club’s first senior premiership captain at 19 years of age. He played over 250 games in the QAFL and represented Queensland in 1977. He was a premiership captain at Wests and returned to Sherwood in 1981 for another flag.

Dennis Hogan
Dennis was big, strong and fast. He was the corner stone of the team’s defence. A three times premiership player he was the eldest of six brothers to play for Sherwood. 

Warren Selvage
Warren played in nine senior premiership teams, the last eight in a row. He coached and captained the premiership team in 1982, the year before the Club entered the QAFL. He was a dour defender and the ultimate team player. He was the eldest son of the Club’s longest serving president, Ian Selvage. His brothers Rodney and Craig also played for Sherwood. 

Glen Crompton
Glen was a strong marking full forward but was quick and equally good at ground level. He was a member of the 1973 premiership team and kicked 100 goals in a season.

Gary Shaw
The Club’s fifth VFL/AFL player, Gary was an excellent talent as a footballer from the start. He amassed a mountain of representative honours throughout his junior career. A small player, Gary was always a rover. In 1976 he was eligible for selection in the State U15 team but was omitted because in the opinion of the selectors he was too small. Ironically he trained with and was selected in the U17 Teal Cup squad in the same year and won the Robinson’s Award for most outstanding Queensland player of the carnival.

Gary played 32 games for Collingwood from 1983 to 1986 and kicked 33 goals. In 1987 he represented the Brisbane Bears in 6 games kicking 5 goals. Gary played all his junior football with Sherwood and amazingly went through his entire junior career at Sherwood without tasting defeat. That is from U9s to his second year of U17s. When he finished with junior football he followed his father’s footsteps and went to Wests. He says when he experienced a loss at Wests he felt like he was being murdered! It was a new and very ugly experience for him.

Hector Robinson
Hector was a very talented rover/half forward flanker who was a dual premiership player with Sherwood and Western Districts. 

Sel Short
Sel was a tough and skilful footballer. He could play any position with ease. He played in premiership teams at Wests, Southport and the Waratahs in the Northern Territory Football League.

Rod Mill
Rod was a very reliable defender who played well above his weight. He amassed over 100 QAFL games and was a great player for Sherwood, particularly in grand finals.

Rob Mitchell
Rob was an All Australian in his junior football days. As a senior he was a big, strong, long kicking full back. He played over 100 games with Wests and Sandgate and also played with West Torrens in the South Australian Football League.

Jim Evans
Generally playing in the back pocket, Jim was the heart and soul of every team he played in. He was a courageous player with great anticipation.

Ken Kassulke
Ken was a very strongly built ruckman who played the game the way it was meant to be played. He was unbelievable in the 1973 grand final when he played with four broken ribs and kicked six goals. He also kicked six goals from centre half forward in the Club’s first senior premiership in 1970. He was a very intimidating player and players on his side were always happy to have him in the team.  

Greg Butler
Greg was the eldest of seven boys who all played with the Club. He was a talented indigenous player who represented Queensland at all junior levels and played in four premiership sides with the Club before going to Kedron. There he played in the 1980 premiership side and totalled over two hundred QAFL games. 

Peter Filler
Peter was one of the most talented players ever to play for this club. He came from Lake Boga near Swan Hill in Victoria. Before he came to Queensland he played in two premiership sides for Wanderers in Darwin. The Northern Territory Football League named their top twenty players for the period 1974 to 1994 as part of a Cyclone Tracey commemoration and Peter was named as number four of the best twenty players in the NT over that period. He was a high flying centre half forward/centre half back with a great mark and a magnificent kick on both feet and on top of that he was a great clubman and a great team player.

Ross Stewart
Ross was a highly talented footballer. He would be the first to admit that he wasn’t athletic but his football skills were so good on both sides of his body that if you wanted somebody to kick a goal to save your life from 40 to 50 metres out then Rocko was the bloke to do it. He was a magnificent player but unfortunately his career was cut short by chronic ankle injuries. After playing all his junior football at Sherwood he played senior football at this Club from around 1975 to 1981.

Bill Peirce
Bill played more games for the Club than anyone else has to this point and it is unlikely this record will ever be broken. He would be up around the 800 game mark. He was a prolific kick getter and probably averaged around 25 possessions per game across that career. He won the 1983 Grogan Medal in the Club’s first year in the QAFL. His greatest attribute was his commitment to his family and to the club. The contribution of the Peirces could never be measured. He also coached the senior team and later coached the Woodsmen to a Premiership in 2009 and pulling on the boots a few times in his 50's! Without using the word at all lightly Bill would be one of the two true legends of the Club along with Maurie McNamee. The esteem he is held is reflected in the Club's Senior Best and Fairest medal named the Bill Peirce Medal. 

Jeff Langdon
Jeff “Mad Dog” Langdon was a blond headed high flying full forward, probably before his time. He played many super games for the Club but none more so than the 1977 grand final against Mt Gravatt when he took 21 marks after half time and after the final siren collapsed and was taken to the hospital with exhaustion (in later life it was discovered he had a malfunction in one of his heart valves). He was probably the first player in Queensland to play in white boots.

John Cawcutt
John was a big strong ruckman built along the lines of the famous Carlton ruckman John Nichols. He nearly gave the game away as a teenager but he was encouraged to keep going and developed into probably the premier ruckman in Queensland. He was a premiership player with Windsor Zillmere. In the 1988 grand final he outrucked former Brownlow Medalist Gary Dempsey.    

Ian Anderson
Ian was one of four indigenous brothers who all played with the club. Ian won the best and fairest award in 1983, the Club’s first year in the QAFL. He wasn’t the most talented player but did it through sheer hard work. He worked extremely hard on all facets of his game to be not only a top player in Queensland but also a strong contributor with Central Districts in the South Australian Football League. He was extremely tough with great hand skills and was a wonderful team player. In 2008 he took on the U18s coaching role along with former team mates Des Lashman and Gary Shaw. The 18s of that era had a strong appreciation of his ethic of hard work without really appreciating it!

Mark Gersekowski
Mark and his brother Paul were two fantastic players. At only six feet he was nevertheless a great player at centre half back and at fullback. He played all his junior football with the Magpies and in the 1980 grand final was moved to centre half forward where he kicked eight goals in a match winning performance. Mark went on to play state football for Queensland and played over 150 games for Western Districts.

Craig St John
Craig was probably the most naturally gifted player ever to play for the Club. He was highly skilled on both sides of his body and it was nothing for him to go left or right and hit a target from fifty metres. He was also a sensational high mark. He played in three premiership sides for Sherwood and the 1980 premiership side for Kedron. He played against South Australia as an 18 year old and was Queensland’s best player. He had all the attributes to play VFL/AFL football but it was never his desire. His father Ron was a great stalwart of the Club in the early days and was the trainer for many senior sides.

On three occasions Collingwood’s U19s came up here to play against a Sherwood team of 19 and 20 year olds. One day Collingwood player Twiggy Dunn was watching with Maurie McNamee and Craig was doing his “Daicos” stuff. Twiggy was very excited thinking he had unearthed something special for Collingwood. Maurie asked if they did 400s at training at Collingwood and of course Twiggy said they do. Maurie said then don’t worry about Sainty – he wouldn’t do 400s, he’d tell you to get stuffed.

Craig also coached the Western Magpies Senior side in 2013.

Alan Giffard
Alan was the first Queenslander to be signed by the Brisbane Bears. He played at full forward and kicked 100 goals three seasons in a row. He was extremely quick and was very good both in the air and at ground level. His combination with Peter Filler was wonderful to watch. Alan came from a very humble background and was supported by the Club in his early development, something he remembers to this day.

Des Lashman
Des was the oldest of three brothers who were all premiership players for the Club. Des was a lightly built half back flanker who gave his all every time he played. He is a good man to have in the trenches beside you. He played over 200 games for the Club and is still involved with the Club.  He coached the Western magpies in their first season back in 1999 and has subsequently coached the clubs Reserves and Under 18s on several occasions. He coached the club's Under 18s to the 2009 QAFL  premiership.  He was a member of the 1983 team that debuted in the QAFL. He is a Life Member of the club.

Phil Anderson
Another one of the Anderson clan, he was known as “Casual”. He was a wonderful full back. Nothing ever worried him. His pace and the way he read the game was very much the same as the way the great North Melbourne full back David Dench played. He played all his football with glasses but it was never a handicap. He was probably the premier defender during his era (1976 – 1981 approximately). 

Alistair Gaw
Alistair was a tough, hard, uncompromising half back flanker who won Sherwood’s Best and Fairest in 1986 and then when Sherwood left the QAFL competition went to Morningside and was a cornerstone of their premiership sides. The Bears were interested in Alistair early in his career however his work commitments as an apprentice electrician did not allow him time to attend 6.00am training sessions at Carrara.

David Atkinson
The original “Akka” was a 6ft 4 in bean pole and weighed about 75 kilos. He was an ex basketball player and had unbelievable skills. He was absolutely fearless and played in about four premiership sides for Sherwood before going to Darwin where he became a legend of the Darwin Football Club. He represented the NT many times against then VFL and South Australian teams and was the first Darwin player to play over 200 games in the NTFL.  

Steve Flintham
Steve was a highly talented centreman who played in several premiership sides as a junior and played in the 1980 senior premiership side. He then moved to South Australia where he played with the old West Torrens Club. He was also an All Australian Teal Cup player (U 17s) and after his playing career coached for many years in South Australian country football. Steve went to play for Sandgate in the QAFL where he won back-to-back Best and Fairest awards.

Steve Rippon
Steve was a young bloke who just walked into the Club with a couple of mates on holiday from Colac in Victoria and Steve decided to stay. He finished winning two Best and Fairest Awards for the Club and won the Gold Coast Representative Player of the Year award in 1988. He was in Fitzroy’s area in Victoria but they showed no interest in him until he started playing in Queensland. However he had a good job by that time and was happy in Queensland and had no interest in going back to Victoria. He finished up playing around 100 games for the Club.

Greg Stewart
Greg was a highly talented forward who kicked 100 goals as a nine and ten year old. He was a duel O’Callaghan Medal winner (best junior in Brisbane). His career was seriously interrupted when he lost his sight in one eye as a thirteen year old and then 12 months later had two plastic hips inserted. Nevertheless he went on to play senior football in Tasmania and was a leading goal kicker in the league in which he played in Tasmania. He was a beautiful kick and mark despite the fact that he weighed around 110 kgs. He was also surprisingly quick over 30 metres even with his plastic hips.

Dean Parkin
Dean was a highly talented indigenous player. He won the U18 Best and Fairest, a senior Best and Fairest and also won the Gold Coast Player of the Year. Dean moved to England working in the public health system, before settling in Sydney with his young family.

Michael (Mousey) Blackmore
Michael played all his junior football for Sherwood. He was a skilful and courageous rover and always gave 100%. He played over 200 senior games for the Club and in 2007 as a 35 year old received the ultimate success with a premiership with the Thirds where he was still able to dominate a game and take the occasional specky.  Mousey is still heavily involved with the Club and it appears his two young sons will follow in his footsteps. Mouse continued to play with Sherwood affiliate The Woodsmen, winning another Premiership in 2009 before repeated broken arms and hamstring niggles brought an end to a long and illustrious career.

Hayden Kluver
Hayden is a highly talented athlete. He was captain of three consecutive junior premiership sides. In 1995 he kicked his 100th goal in the Grand Final and put in a best on ground performance. He was a rookie listed player with the Lions for two years and played a major part in the 2001 premiership win over Southport. He then played senior football for the Port Adelaide Magpies, for Nightcliffe in Darwin and Subiaco in Perth.  

Adam Gillespie
Adam was at the Club since the age of 15 and was a wonderful footballer for the Club. He is a highly skilled half forward flanker/forward pocket  with great goal sense. He has played well over 100 senior games and is always dangerous. Gilly played in the 2006 and 2008  premierships and club doyen Kebvin Kluver regards him as one of the smartest footballers he has seen at Sherwood. He has booted 10 goals in two matches and due to work issues played at Ipswich for several seasons where he again was the leading goal kicker and also played in a Premiership with the Woodsmen in 2009. At the time of writing he is still playing excellent football with Paraburdoo in the Pilbara where he again won the leagues leading goalkicker award and played in the club's 2015 premiership.. 

Tyson Kenny
Tyson is an unassuming full back/centre half back. He played in the 2006 senior premiership side and was also a part of some junior premierships.  He has good breeding – his grandfather was the legendary Collingwood full back Jack Regan who is regarded by many as the best full back ever to play VFL/AFL football. Tyson joined Redland in the QAFL in 2006 and still runs around for Collingwood Park ocassionally against his former teammates at the Woodsmen.

Craig “Harold” Anderson
Craig was a quick and skilful left footed wingman. His greatest asset was his poise - he always managed to keep his feet. He was dangerous around goal and was a pleasure to watch when he was on his game. His raking left foot kicks, either kicking to position or kicking for goal was a delight to watch. 

Cory Lambert
Cory was a solidly built centreman who played Teal Cup for Queensland in 1989 and then went on to play for West Torrens in South Australia before returning to Queensland and playing for West Brisbane where he was a member of the 1996 premiership side and also recipient of the Grogan Medal in the same year. Cory then moved to the Ovens and Murray League playing for North Albury where in 1997 he won his club’s best and fairest and best on ground in the Grand Final, which North Albury won. Then in 1999 he was joint winner of the Morris Medal for the best and fairest in the competition and runner up in 2000. Corey went on to coach North Albury and Wodonga Raiders in the O & M FL and coached Jerilderie to several premierships in the southern Riverina.

Chris Mihalopolous
Chris was already showing outstanding athletic ability as a 10 year old at Sherwood State School. He played all his junior football with Sherwood and was captain of the premiership winning Western Magpies seniors in 2006, 2008 and 2012.  He was an inspirational leader and was a major factor in the Magpies second Golden Era from 2006 to 2012. He continues to contribute to the club and is currently playing coach of the Sherwood affiliate The Woodsmen where he is also a Premiership player. Chris was awarded Life Membership in 2015.

Marty Pask
Marty was a very talented centre half forward/centre half back who made the Queensland U 18 side in 2004 and went on to play some excellent football for the Club before being drafted by the Brisbane Lions where he played 10 senior games before being delisted and being picked up by the Western Bulldogs in 2007.

Pat “Paddy” Garner
Paddy was a talented junior who was selected in the All Australian U 16 team and represented Queensland with the U 18s before being drafted by the Brisbane Lions as pick number 27 in the Draft. He is a tall (194cm) athletic player with the ability to play forward or back and with an excellent kick can effortlessly slot goals from outside the 50. Unfortunately while with the Lions he endured three serious knee injuries 2 years apart and before his twenty first birthday, all requiring reconstructive surgery. Pat subsequently retired from playing but continues to be involved in football at Sherwood as a coaching adviser.

Ross Catchpole
Ross was probably the most outstanding junior footballer to play with the Club. Like Greg Stewart he too won two O’Callaghan Medals. He had all the skills and would be a great player in today’s AFL competition because of his ability to run continuously throughout a game without his skills diminishing. Ross endured chronic leg problems as a young man and retired at an early age after playing a handful of games for Western Districts. 

Leigh Barnes
Leigh was a full forward who hailed from North Launceston in Tasmania. After one season with Wilston Grange in the QAFL in which he kicked 109 goals in a team the won the wooden spoon he moved to Sherwood the following year. He had a long and illustrious career at Sherwood and became a great clubman, always prepared to coach junior sides and do whatever was asked of him. Leigh now resides in San Francisco and as President of the Golden Gate Football League is promoting the Australian game in that part of the world. Leigh returns to Australia every two years and his first port of call is always Sherwood Football Club.

Greg Adams
Pound for pound Greg was probably the hardest, toughest player ever to play for the Club. He instilled absolute fear in the opposition and in his team mates alike. He was highly skilled and a great competitor with strength of character that rubbed off on his team mates. The teams that Greg played in always performed better when he was in the centre. 

Bruce Smith
One of four brothers to play for the Club, Bruce was a prolific goal kicking half forward flanker. He also played for Camberwell in the VFA. On returning to Brisbane he played for Sherwood and also played in the QAFL with Kedron where he was a premiership player and also the leading goal kicker in the QAFL for that year.  

Anthony (Tony) Smith
Tony started his football career with Sherwood in 1966 in the U9s having followed in the footsteps of his three older brothers Ray, Craig and Bruce. He played at Sherwood through to the U11s representing Queensland in a schoolboys tour to Adelaide in 1969. In 1970 he moved to Melbourne with his family. He joined Camberwell Football Club in the Victorian Football Association in 1977, playing with his brothers Ray who was captain coach, and Bruce. Tony was invited to join Hawthorn Football Club in 1977, however due to injury he chose to play out the year at Camberwell.

In 1978 Tony returned to Brisbane to study law and played the remainder of the season with Sherwood. In 1979 he played with Western Districts and was a member of the losing grand final team. In 1980 he moved to Kedron Football Club and played in the winning grand final team followed by a grand final loss in 1981. At Kedron he was twice runner up in the Club Best and Fairest. He represented Queensland in 1981/82 and notes one of his football highlights as the game against Victoria at the Gabba in 1981. Although humbled by the scoreline, the experience of playing against the likes of Terry Wallace, Wayne Schimmelbusch and Bernie Quinlan was more than memorable. Due to a recurring back injury he retired from football in 1985.

CK Group Throwback Thursday - the 2nd Golden Era!

THE SECOND GOLDEN ERA

The Western Magpies have had a second Golden Era with 3 premierships from 2006 to 2014. There was a period between the Golden Eras of the 1970s/80s and the 2006-14 era when Sherwood/Western Magpies had had a rocky road with few successes but were also treated poorly by the administrators of AFL in Queensland.

To lay the foundation of the second Golden Era the period between the Eras needs to be told to set the background for the clubs recent successes.

BETWEEN THE GOLDEN ERAS

The Western Magpies reformed as a Senior Club in their own right 1999 after Sherwood, promoted to the QAFL in 1982,  had been shifted from the QAFL after 5 years in the bottom half of the ladder (the Reserves were regular finalists) to  the Gold Coast League in 1988 then after 2 years in that league moved to the State Association  for one year before the QAFL insisted that Sherwood and QAF club Western District amalgamate to form West Brisbane in 1991. West Brisbane competed for another five years, with many Sherwood juniors playing for the club which won the QAFL flag in 1996 then due to financial pressure withdrew. Sherwood junior Corey Lambert won the Grogan Medal in 1996.

There was no senior club based at Chelmer until the Western Magpies were born in 1999 (see Paul Grentell’s recent story on the birth of the Western Magpies). The QAFL insisted that the club be named the Western Magpies in order to encompass all the western suburbs of Brisbane and the old Western Districts club, but Sherwood’s black and white colours were adopted.

The Magpies played for 2 years in the South Queensland Association, under coaches Kevin Kluver and ex-Footscray rover Geoff Jennings,  finishing fifth both times, before being promoted to the newly named Queensland State League, the top tier of football in Queensland. Geoff Jennings coached the side for several years, then Damien Carroll.

The club struggled in the bottom half of the ladder but had some memorable victories, most notably defeating the Brisbane Lions Reserves in 2002 before a huge crowd at Chelmer,  with a young Peter Kilroy among the best players in that victory. Players of note in this era were Dean Parkin, Michael Blackmore, Tyson Kenny and two youngsters who would be instrumental in the resurgence of the Magpies inAdam Gillespie and Chris Mihalopoulos, who would go on to be a 10 year captain and 3-time premiership player.

Despite the club improving in each year in the State league, being better performed than some other clubs (Reserves and under 18s regular finalists), being financially sound and producing 3 players who were drafted to AFL clubs in 2004 (Pat Garner and Marty Pask to the Lions and Ed McDonnell to St Kilda),  the AFLQ relegated the Magpies to Division 2 at the end of 2004. The reasons for this have yet to be fully explained!!!

In Division 2 the club quickly found its feet again with a final appearance in 2005, and Reserves and Under 18 premierships,  to lay the foundation for the next period of the club’s success.

THREE FLAGS IN SIX YEARS—SECOND GOLDEN ERA

The run of three flags in 6 years commenced in 2006 when Western Magpies and Noosa were the two best teams in the league and inevitably played off for the premiership at Carrara. The Pies were coached by Paul Grentell who instilled a great belief in the side and had them playing a disciplined brand of football. The match was tightfor three quarters but the Magpies held a slender lead going into the last quarter and took control to kick 5 unanswered goals to win quite comfortably in the end, 19.13-127 to Noosa 11.10-76.

Reid Dobson was named Best on Ground and he kicked a couple of long 50 metre goals on the run during the match, one in the last quarter which sealed the flag for the Magpies. Others to stand out were Luke Scott, Tim McEvoy,  Jim Rozynski, Ian Carroll and Brett Gwyther. Little did the team know but Brett Gwyther was soon diagnosed with cancer and passed away 5 months after the Grand Final—the club instituted the BG Award in recognition of his determination and never say die attitude and it is still a most treasured award at the football club.

The Pies lost the Grand Final to Palm Beach-Currumbin at Carrara in 2007 in windy conditions—kicking against the wind in the first quarter the Pies were 7 goals down and virtually out of the contest at half time when held kicking with the wind in the second quarter.

The 2008 flag is arguably the best flag because the Magpies were underdogs and were 40 points behind early in the third quarter against now bitter rivals Palm Beach-Currumbin.  The Magpies had ended PBC’s  39 match winning streak about 3 rounds out from the finals but limped into the finals and won their way into the decider the hard way, winning two knockout semi finals on the way.

On the big Broadbeach ground Palm Beach-Currumbin controlled the first half to lead by 28 points at half time and when they kicked the first 2 goals of the third term the Pies were 40 points behind.  A simple missed goal from a Palm Beach player who arrogantly decided to roll the ball to the goals from 15 metres out which did a “Warney” and turned at right angles to hit the post each was the reprieve the Pies needed.

Spurred on by CHF Josh Barton, who kicked 2 telling goals, then a 60 metre bomb from Sean Mewing had the Pies sensing a famous victory. PBC decided to defend their 23 point three quarter time lead with extra players in defence and this allowed the Magpies to control the midfield and launch attack after attack. The Pies whittled the lead down and early in time on Luke Scott took a strong mark and then missed a goal that would put the Pies in front. PBC missed 2 simple opportunities to seal the game and then a Luke Scott snap out of the pack put the Pies in front for the first time at the 30 minute mark of the last quarter.

The siren sounded as PBC were streaming toward goal and the jubilant Magpie supporters engulfed their team in scenes of jubilation.  Final scores were Pies 16.8-104 to PBC 14.17-101.

Best players were Jim Rozynskion ball, CHF Josh Barton, 16 year old ruckman Gerard Moore, half forwards Luke Scott and Val Pope, winger Ben Heffernan-Roper  and defenders Sean Mewing, Hayden Dowley, Todd Dunn and skipper Chris Mihalopoulos.

Following the 2008 Premiership, the Western Magpies were promoted to the AFLQ top flight but with several key player losses the Pies again found the going tough. In 2 years the Pies did not win a game and suffered some big defeats but in reality should have won about 6 of those matches.  The Magpies heirachy decided to build for the future and blood young players, but this meant a number of  large losses which resulted in Paul Grentell being moved on.

However,  at the end of 2010, the goalposts were shifted again with the formation of the NEAFL.

The Magpies decided to drop down a level to QLD Division 1 (Pineapple Hotel Cup) to ensure the survival of the football club and with some prescience had the view that the landscape in south-east Queensland would change within 5 years. This has  come true, only it took 3 years for the changes to occur to the formation of the current QAFL.

With new senior coach Peter McClennan at the helm after 2 years guiding a very competitive Reserves team in the AFLQ,  the Magpies bowed out of the finals in straight sets in 2011.

But the Pies were the team to beat in 2012 and duly reached the Grand Final, again against Palm Beach Currumbin, who had lost the 2011 decider to Noosa.  PBC were also seething after several of their players were injured in a tough semi final between the clubs several weeks earlier.

PBC were a dangerous opponent in a number of respects, with some rough-house tactics expected from the Lions. However, it was the  the Pies who attacked the football ferociously in the first quarter,  led by hard nut Jim Rozynski, resilient onballer Tim McEvoy and skipper Chris Mihalopoulos in his last senior match for the club.  The Magpies dominated the first three quarters, with small forwards Val Pope (5 goals) and Matt Thompson (4 goals) and key forward Alex Dickfos (3 goals) all kicking straight to have the Pies 10 goals up at three quarter time.  The defence led by Ed McDonnell, Hayden Thick, Lachlan Woods,  Conrad Hudghton  and Will Fozard was miserly for the first three quarters and Dom Beer, Gerard Moore and Dylan McDonald were strong in ruck and around ground.

PBC finally blew up early in the last quarter with an unsavoury brawl with PBC players attempting to strike the magpies players, with Jim Rozynski and Chris Mihalopoulos the targets.

With the match in their keeping , the Pies eased off and PBC kicked some late goals to flatter the final margin, Pies winning 19.12 - 126 to 14.15-99.

During this era the Western Magpies also won Reserves premierships in 2005 (undefeated), 2006 and 2007 and were runners up in 2008, 2012 and 2013.

The Under 18s won premierships in AFLQ First Division in 2005 and 2010 and were runners up in 2009, and the 3rds won the 2007 Premiership before re-forming as the Woodsmen to win Premierships in 2009 and 2014.

The Western Magpies were re-admitted to a revamped QAFL under new coach Glenn Humphrey who had coached in the Northern Territory and after a promising start to the year fell away to finish with 5 victories.

The Pies enjoyed a finer season in 2015, finishing second on the ladder with 15 wins and 3 losses, 2 of those in the first 2 matches of the season

A highlight was the Magpies defeating Morningside for the first time in over 25 years. The Pies unfortunately had a disappointing exit from the finals with two straight losseswhen they had last quarter fade-outs. Other highlights were Captain  Callum Carseldine winning the club’s second ever Grogan Medal and Carseldine, Val Pope, Doug Lawrence and Luke Scott being named in the QAFL Team of the Year.

Halfway through 2016, the Magpies sit 5th on the ladder and looking to build into a strong second half of the season - Go Pies!

Much of this information has been obtained from "In Black and White--A History of the Sherwood and Western Magpies Football Clubs 1956-2011" written by Tony and Geraldine Massey in 2011--copies still available--a good read!!

 The club history can still be purchased for $30 by contacting Warren and Rod Selvage via the website  www.inblackandwhite.net.au)

24 Fit - Ressies Review

The Western Magpies Reserves have been overpowered in the second half by a strong Surfers Paradise team on Saturday. The young Magpies started promisingly and led at quarter timeand were still in it at half time but were no match for the bigger and more experienced Demons outfit.

The Magpies struggled to get their hands on the ball in the midfield contests and were back pedaling after half time.

In a sign of promise for the future young CHF Charlie Pershouse kept presenting and played a good game as did another young half forward in Jake Farrell.

Blake McClennan showed why he has been a senior player in the past with plenty of midfield possessions and he is rapidly gaining form and match fitness after missing the early part of the season with injury.  

Jae Humphrey worked hard in mopping up in defence as did Sean McEvoy who started on a wing but was swung into defence to help slow the Demons' attacks.

Young ruckman Geoff Gibb continues to improve and battled hard in the ruck and Chris Devlin also did some good things in the middle of the ground.

With up to ten players injured or unavailable in the club the Magpies depth has been tested in recent weeks. Coach Craig Allen will be looking for a full four quarter effort when the Pies meet Mt Gravatt on Saturday. The Magpies had a good win over the Vultures in Round 1.

Surfers Paradise 2.4 - 16 | 8.6 - 54 | 12.7 - 79 | 17.11 - 113

defeated

Western Magpies 3.0 - 18 | 5.2 - 32 | 6.3 - 39 | 7.4 - 46

Best: McClennan, Pershouse, Humphrey, McEvoy, Gibb, Devlin

Goals: Perhouse 2, Billing 2, McEvoy

CK Group - Colts Review

COLTS HANDED VALUABLE LESSON

This week saw the young Magpies up against competition heavyweights Southport .

In a match played with finals like intensity, the Magpies had the better of the first half and went in with a slender lead at half time. The pressure from both sides had made the first half a true arm wrestle , with the Magpies working to a 3 goal lead in the second quarter, then letting the opposition back in the game with some costly mental lapses.

After the long break , Southport lifted the level again and shot out to a two goal lead. The game was being played with an intensity that was fitting for two teams in the top 4 and the Pies then steadied and answered the challenge to level the scores.

Key moments determine the outcome of these games and it was at this time Southport sensed the moment better than the Pies, lifted their physicality at the contest and won crucial one-on- one battles. The result was a run of quick goals to end the third quarter . That 10 minute period resulted in a 4 goal lead to Southportand the Pies were faced with a mountain to climb if they were to claim the win.

Both teams were feeling the pinch , benches were littered with sore players on both sides. This  turned the first 5 minutes of the quarter into a battle around the ground without much scoring.  The Magpies got a goal back to draw within 3 goals , but again when it was needed most, Southport lifted, steadied and drew away. A couple of junk time goals blew the margin out to 6 goals at the end, but both sides knew they had been in a tough game of finals like footy. It was a hostile environment, and a game played between two sides who have not a lot of love for one another, but in the end the credit goes to the winners and the Pies offer no excuses. It's a good reminder after 7 weeks of good wins, that the Colts still have to improve in key areas if they are to achieve their goals this year.

The Colts will now gear up for another huge challenge against the unbeaten Maroochydore this Sunday at Chelmer.

Southport 16.5 - 101

defeated

Magpies 10.5 - 65

Best: Misso, Vine, Gore, Lawson, Stumer, Highlands

Goals: Lawson 4, Reynolds, Stumer, Gore, Renner, DeRooy, Grant 1

METIS WEALTH MATCH REVIEW - PIES POWER TO BIG WIN

The Western Magpies had what is possibly a season defining victory when they defeated fellow finals rival Surfers Paradise by 62 points at Surfers on Saturday. The Pies were also accurate in front of goal to win 21.7-133 to 11.5-71.

The Pies have traditionally struggled at Surfers Paradise but in a rarity at Sir Bruce Small Oval the conditions were perfect with no wind and the Pies won the contested football and hand and foot skills were good to lead at every change.

The Pies were better at the spread around the contested ball than in recent matches and then spun the ball out to willing runners and in their best game of the year hit targets with Alex Dickfos in his best game for the year with 4 goals and Brent Staker contributing 3 goals from CHF.

The midfield was back to its brillant best with skipper Callum Carseldine returning from Queensland state duties to win plenty of football, Ben Jaenke-Cain kept running all match and Drew Mitchell and Gareth Crawford also won plenty of the ball around the ground and both sneaking forward to boot 3 goals each.

The Pies half back line was dominant with Brady Allen having over 30 telling possessions from half back in possibly his best match for the Pies and had the Pies supporters in raptures with a 60 metre goal.

CHB Luke Scott controlled the backline and 17 yo debutante Will Fletcher soaked up physicalattention from his opponent and showed plenty of composure in the clinches at half back to have the last laugh with a good first Senior game--the first of many!

Co-captain Lachlan Woods also had his best game for the year with plenty of hard ball, shepherds and tackles to open up play and his disposal was accurate all match.

The Pies now sit in fifth place with third place and the double chance still a prize in reach.

Nathan Clarke, Senior Coach

"It was a good win, we got a bit of ball movement happening, and a lot more pressure around the ball.

“I don’t think it was one thing in particular, but the last two weeks have been good for us and what we have been working on. I think we were able to make the most of our opportunities.

“Our ball movement was a focus, we spoke about having the courage to have a crack at our kicks and move it quicker.”

The Magpies host close rivals and third placed Mt Gravatt at Chelmer on Saturday in another challenging match. The Pies will be up for a big match as Sherwood/Western Magpies celebrate the club's 60th Anniversary with a reunion and dinner on Saturday.

Western Magpies 5.3 - 33 | 11.5 - 71 | 17.6 - 108 | 21.7 - 133

Defeated

Surfers Paradise 2.2 - 14 | 4.3 - 27 | 8.3 - 51 | 11.5 - 71

Best: Carseldine, Allen, Scott, Fletcher, Crawford, Jeanke-Cain

Goals: Dickfos 4, Staker, Crawford, D.Mitchell 3, Lewis, Bridge, Copland, Allen, Davis, Saunders, Woods, Morton 1

Place Preview - Reserves vs Surfers

The Western Magpies Reserves face a challenge when they face the Surfers paradise on Saturday.

The Pies have been not lived up to expectations this year but with a coaching change they may get a boost as is often the case with a change. Craig Allen has assumed the Reserves coaching role from Quentin Johnson, who has taken on the role of midfield coach for the Senior team.

Nick Barling and Todd Billing come into the team from the Firsts and will add some big man strength to the Pies. Barling and Matt Hockley up forward will give the Pies something to aim at and with Jake Heard to be better for a game under his belt,  the Pies have some goalkicking options.

Young ruckman Geoff Gibb continues to improve and with Joel Workman hard at the contest and  Blake McClennan also running into form the Pies midfield should get a fair share of the ball.

Chris Devlin slots back into the centre to replace the promoted Brodie Easton and the backline looks solid with Ricky Dudley, Sean McEvoy and Billing forming the nucleus.   

The Pies sit 4 points and percentage outside the five and will need to start winning these sorts of match if they are to make a charge toward the finals.

Western Magpies Reserves v Surfers Paradise at Surfers Paradise at 11.30 am on Saturday, June 11th, 2016

B: G. McKinnonR. Dudley J. Page

HB: L. DeNysS. McEvoyT. Billing

C: C. Pershouse  C. Devlin J. Humphrey

HF: B. JohnsonN. Barling   J. Heard

F: S. HubbardM. Hockley  S. Taylor

Rucks:  G. Gibb, H.Heath, B McClennan

I/C from: J. Workman, J.Pukallus, L. Dennis, J. Burton, J. Farrell

Emerg: M. Mazarolle, B. Walker

CFMG Colts Preview

BIG TEST FOR YOUNG MAGPIES

This week sees the fourth placed Western Magpies Colts travel to Southport to take on the third placed Sharks in a battle between serious Premiership contenders.

In what will be the toughest test since round one, the young Magpies will get a true indication of how much they have developed since the opening round.

The side will be missing some key players in Mason, R.Johnson, Rigsby-Jones, Senescall & Fisher, so it will be a true test of the squad's depth.

It's not all bad news though as they regain Morrison and Gore from injury and welcome Mazzarolle and Davis from the Reserves. The Colts have a " play anyone , anywhere , anytime" ethos and it's these traits that have served them well and resulted in winning the last 7 games on end and earning a spot in the top 4.

Coach Gore said " We will be fresh after the bye last week, and as long as we are prepared to hang tough for the full 4 quarters, have 22 who were prepared to play their role, as we have had for the last 2 months, then we give ourselves every chance to cause an upset. We are asking the boys to take chances and be confident in what they can do, and if they do that, then I'll be happy. "

The match is at 9.15 am Saturday and anyone traveling down to Surfers Paradise for the Seniors matches will not be disappointed if they drop by and show their support for the young Magpies.

Squad :
B: Smith. Vine . Adamson
HB: Roderick . Luke . Vagne
C: Grant.  Reynolds . Gainsford
HF. Morrison. Mazzarolle. Renner
F. Stumer . DeRooy. Lawson
R. Highlands RR Misso R . Allen
Int : Gore, Green, Davis, Burgess

PLACE PREVIEW - PIES RING CHANGES

The Western Magpies have made a raft of changes as the Pies face an 8 point match against the fourth placed Surfers Paradise on the Gold Coast on Saturday.  Only four competition points separate the sides and coach Nathan Clarke has had several forced and unforced changes to his side from last round.

Key forward Brent Staker returns to add firepower to the Pies forward line and exciting youngster and Queensland under 18 player Will Fletcher makes his debut from the bench. Brenton Saunders returns after a long lay off with an ankle sprain and Mitch Stallard returns from injury while Jadan Morton, Sam Copland and Brodie Easton all earn a recall.

Out are the injured Richard Wenham and Aaron Maricic, Nick Barling and Todd Billing go back to the Reserves, Matt Sondergeld is rested as Redlands have a bye and Sonny Aneet and Corey Hopkins are both unavailable.

The Pies will be keen to put their slow start and last quarter fadeout against Morningside to one side and prove they are a genuine finals side against an hot & cold Demons outfit, who have enjoyed huge wins over 2015 Grand Finalists Labrador and Morningside, but also been well beaten by Broadbeach and most recently Mt Gravatt.  Given this, the Pies will need to be ready for anything the Surfers side has to throw at them, as they have been a high scoring outfit this year when they get going.

The Pies will have welcomed the break to re-charge the batteries and with Staker up forward and the return of smart small forward in Saunders the Pies goal scoring power has increased significantly.

Morton comes in to assist Dom Beer and it is in the middle the match will be won or lost. The Pies midfield was regularly dominant in their 2015 run to second place on the ladder but this has not been the case this year and coach Clarke has put a lot of work in getting his rotations right and the stoppage and clearance strategies in place.  Converting midfield ascendancy to scoring shots and quality forward entries will also be high on the agenda.

The Pies defence was under the pump last round and will be keen to restrict the very dangerous and versatile Demons forwardline. Rhys Bridge has been excellent this year and Luke Scott and Tim Mcevoy bring plenty of experience across half back.  

As the Pies near the half way mark of the season this is a big match with plenty at stake. The Pies need to win to remain close to the top sides and be in position to launch an assault at the top three in the second half of the season.

Western Magpies vs Surfers Paradise - Sir Bruce Small Oval, Gold Coast Sat 11 June @ 2pm

B: Luke Mitchell - Chris Hunt - Rhys Bridge

HB: Brady Allen - Luke Scott - Tim McEvoy

C: Matt Davis - Cal Carseldine (C) - Brodie Easton

HF: Mitch Stallard - Brent Staker - Lachlan Woods (C)

F: Brenton Saunders - Alex Dickfos - David Lewis

Foll: Dom Beer - Ben Jeanke-Cain - Gareth Crawford

INT: Jadan Morton - Drew Mitchell - Sam Copland - Will Fletcher

Throwback Thursday - Brought to you by Metis Wealth

THE BIRTH OF THE WESTERN MAGPIES

Paul Grentell reflects on a chance meeting and 2 games...

"I was lucky enough to run into Simon (Tutts) Maplebeck at Brisbane’s Adrenalin Bar one night in 1998 whilst on holidays from Victoria when he explained to me the concept of The Western Magpies and asked if I would be interested in coming back to play. Tutts explained to me that the idea had been floated of The Sherwood Football Club resurrecting a senior team to cater for senior football in the western suburbs. As he explained to me that himself Matt Vowles, Des Lashman, Steve Mitchell and Laurie Nipperess were going to be the key drivers of the team - memories of watching the Sherwood and Western Districts Football Clubs as a wide eyed junior came flooding back. The images of the Gersakowski brothers, Allan Giffard, Quentin Johnson, Bill Peirce ,Lashman’s and Shaw’s all boyhood heroes of mine were firmly ingrained in my mind and the opportunity to follow in their footsteps was something that I yearned to do since the extinction of West Brisbane after the 96 Flag.

Even though I was contracted to a football club in country Victoria and in my third year of working at Mt Hotham the prospect to play in the first two games was appealing and something to be cherished. During that preseason there was an instant bond forming with old friends and teammates quitting their current clubs and committing to the cause and it was quickly evident that we were embarking on an exciting venture. Des Lashman with Steve Mitchell heading up the Ressies was appointed coach and Brad Rantall Captain his deputies were to be familiar names Michael “Mousey” Blackmore, Scott “Oogy” Headley and Michael “Nickers” Nixon as well as West Brisbane players Darren “Macca” McCartey, Grant ‘Dalo” Dalman, Ben Brotherton and Luke Richardson.  Added to the mix of senior boys were up and coming juniors such as Adam Gillespie, Ryan Godden, Glenn Shredder and Sean Toohey. Training was tough and standards were quickly set but the thing that has stuck with me was the instant camaraderie and every Thursday night in the preseason the boys would be straight into the social club for a catch up and a ribbing, on Friday nights (in preseason) we would always meet at the club before venturing to the RE, all groups were involved from the seasoned campaigner to the rookies.

As the first game approached I was told that we were a little light on for height and I was the best option to play in the ruck, a position pretty foreign to me but if that’s how I was going to contribute so be it. Our first game against Robina at home had arrived and seeing I was living in Graceville just around the corner I decided to walk down to the ground it was exciting to put on The Western Magpies club shirt and receive a few beeps of well wishes on my journey to the club. I will never forget putting on my jumper albeit number 53 and being in the rooms with my new teammates all of whom were bursting at the seams in anticipation of representing the club and the area. As we walked through the tunnel heading out to the ground the feeling was quite surreal looking around and seeing a combination of old and new with the common goal and this along with the cheers from the local crowd were exhilarating. It was a sluggish affair and even though we were pipped at the post the players were bitterly disappointed but knew better days were to follow. 

Our next game was played at Western Districts Oval a ground that a few of us had played senior footy on whilst representing West Brisbane and had fond memories of playing at the venue. But the opening term was to be a nightmare with Burleigh Bombers jumping out of the blocks and having a healthy lead at halftime. During the week I had informed the club that I needed to get back to Victoria after the game and fulfil my obligations with my employer and current club. So it dawned on me that the opportunity to sing the song was slipping from me and my teammates and although there was steely reserve in the rooms to comeback from 10 goals down would be extremely difficult to say the least. Our captain Brad Rantall knew that I was heading back on the Monday and made an amazing offer to lead the boys out after halftime which was marvellous. Lasho gave a stirring, passionate address and told us to play with flare and freedom and to go for it and we did. Our younger group were playing on at every chance and taking the game on. Our backline with Oogy, Nickers and Jason Pinnington was rock solid at the same time as Adam Gillespie and Brad Rantall gave amazing drive off the backline whilst Richo was marking everything up forward and slotting them from everywhere. In the midfield the opposition ruckman was smashing me at the taps and at one bounce all our mids were lined up behind so I did ask our blokes to put one in front to humour me or in case of a bad bounce or even better if I win one which they laughed at, but it was our engine room of Macca, Mouse and Dalo who were smashing them in the middle (literally). Slowly but surely we pegged them back and every one of our players were playing out of their skins wand the chance to sing that song was now within striking distance. Richo just kept kicking goals and eventually we he hit the front at the right time and victory was ours.

The feeling in the rooms was amazing and all our supporters, past players, family and friends were in there to belt out the song Lasho was crying,  Barts and Kev were pumped and my brother Andrew and Shaff were crowing and as one big giant family we belted out the song loud enough for the entire neighbourhood to hear. But as I looked around the room at all the jubilant faces and hearing the sounds of VB”s cracking the blokes that were most content with the victory were Vowlesy and Tutts who had the vision to get The Western Magpies up and running, I was hooked and once I was able to, I told them I would be back for more!!"

As many would know, Paul later returned to the club and had a distinguished coaching career, coaching 2 Senior Premierships in 2006 and 2008

RHP Physio Representative Player Update - QLD Team

Carseldine & Scott named in QLD Side

Western Magpies Co-Captain and reigning Grogan Medallist, Callum Carseldine has been named in the QLD Team alongside teammate Luke Scott to take on the WAAFL Representative side at Yeronga tonight Friday June 3 at 7pm.

The selections were well deserved, with the following reports from AFLQ in relation to each player:

Carseldine

The reigning Grogan Medalist will crack in at the contested ball all night long. His strength through the hips means he is hard to tackle, wins the footy, and kick starts forward momentum. If the dew hits late, his contested work could be instrumental.

Scott

Scott is the best swingman in the competition, having the ability to play an influential role behind the footy, or as a target up forward. Battled an injury early on in the year, but has been back to his best of late. He reads the ball superbly in flight, has strong hands, and brings teammates into the game.

Unfortunately Luke Scott is in doubt for the match due to a hamstring niggle, but the Magpie family congratulates both on their well deserved selection in the side.

PLACE MATCH REVIEW - MAGPIES OUTPLAYED BY ATTACKING PANTHERS

The Western Magpies went down to a Morningside Panthers side full of attacking intent on Sunday afternoon at the Nest.  The Magpies started the game strongly, matching the Panthers at the contest and enjoying similar possession and field position in the first quarter.  However, the signs were there early as the Panthers ran in waves through the middle and kicking long and direct to their strong forward line who enjoyed a size advantage against their Magpie opponents.

Luke Scott and Alex Dickfos were providing strong targets forward, and when the ball came in quickly they were able to match or beat their opponents in the contest to create strong scoring opportunities.  The quarter time score was 4.2 – 26 to 2.3 – 15 with the Panthers in front, but the Magpies did show hardness around the footy and didn’t finish off their work as they would have liked.

The 2nd quarter started as a bit of an arm wrestle, with the Magpies repeatedly showing an appetite at the contest and an ability to win the footy – but weren’t able to use the ball effectively to push forward.  An unwillingness to take the game on was apparent and this resulted in slow ball movement, allowing the Panthers to get back in numbers and clog up the Magpie forward-line.  When the inevitable turnover came, the Panthers pounced – attacking strongly from halfback, and running hard through the middle of the ground – launching several attacks up the corridor.  While the Magpie defenders battled manfully under the weight of attack, eventually after 10 minutes the Panthers broke the deadlock and the floodgates opened, ironically when the Magpies tried to switch play back into the middle – no doubt making the side gun shy of a repeat.  Dom Beer had been exceptional in the ruck, while Crawford and Carseldine repeatedly got first hands on the footy in the opening 40 minutes – but when the Panthers had a brief period of ascendancy at the stoppages they pounced, with 3 quick goals in succession as a result of quick exits from contests and getting the ball in the corridor before going long and direct to their tall forwards and kicking to advantage in one on one contests.

Doc Davis, Tim McEvoy and Luke Mitchell were working hard, but skill errors combined with a lack of options presenting themselves forced plenty of turnovers, particularly on the clubhouse wing, where the Magpies were repeatedly forced to kick long down the line.  In contrast, the Panthers were spreading hard in defence and switching play to transition effectively before attacking the corridor and running hard to get handball receives through the middle.  Late in the quarter, the message got through and the Magpies switched the ball multiple times to create scoring opportunities, including a late goal to Dickfos after good transitional play from the opposite back flank.

The 3rd quarter started positively with the Magpies winning the opening centre clearance and creating multiple scoring opportunities they should have finished, before some quality pressure from Rhys Bridge on the wing created a turnover and goal to Dickfos.  The Magpies again won the next centre clearance and looked to attack wide but again moved the ball too slowly.  The Panthers worked their way up the ground for a behind, before a poor turnover from the kick-out resulted in a goal to the Panthers (despite it being a clear behind, it was awarded a goal). 

The Magpies midfield again won the next centre clearance and forced the ball forward and locked it in for repeat stoppages, before some quality inside work from Crawford forced the ball deep, leading to an answering goal from Rhys Bridge.  At the next centre bounce, it was rinse and repeat for the Magpies midfield – again winning the clearance and forcing the ball inside 50.    The game was played on even terms for the remaining 20 minutes of the quarter, with the Magpies having the better of Morningside around the stoppages, while the Panthers utilised their superior size up forward to create scoring opportunities.

Goals to Woods and Dickfos due to relentless pressure across the wing and half forward, particularly from Wenham with his outstanding tackling pressure were cancelled out by 2 goals from Panther talls.  The Magpies repeatedly won the centre clearances to create opportunities, but unfortunately too often didn’t get the ball in quick enough and trust their teammates to win one on one contests, instead waiting (too) patiently for a free teammate to present themselves.

The result was the Magpies trailed at ¾ time by 35 points after kicking 4.3 to the Panthers 5.2 and having the better of the contested situations.  However, any thought of a rally in the last quarter was put to bed when the Panthers won the opening clearance and locked the ball forward for the first 5 minutes of the quarter before converting their territorial advantage with a scrappy goal to go 42 points clear.

After dominating in the 3rd quarter centre clearances, the Magpies gave up 2 on the trot to start the last and the Panthers pushed forward again and locked it in for close to 10 minutes.  Doc Davis, Lachy Woods and Luke Scott kept the Panthers at bay before the Magpies finally worked the ball forward for their first inside 50 at the 15 minute mark, but failed to convert a relatively simple chance in front of goal.   Morningside swung the ball up through the middle quickly and the floodgates finally opened with another quality contested mark from a Panther tall resulted in a goal to put the result beyond doubt.  The Magpies lost their ascendancy around the stoppages and 3 more quick goals followed as the Panthers opened them up through the middle of the ground, with the Magpies struggling to get the ball forward of 50 for most of the last quarter.  A post siren goal to Dickfos after a rare forward entry resulted in a final margin of 62 points in favour of Morningside.

Dom Beer battled manfully in the ruck, regularly giving the Magpies first use – while Sondergeld was busy all over the ground and Crawford and Carseldine in particular were excellent in tight.  It was in space where the Magpies couldn’t match their opponents on the day, not taking the game on and therefore leaving their forwards regularly outnumbered, in complete contrast to the Panthers side with their run and carry through the middle and willingness to run from half back to create opportunities through the corridor.

Western Magpies 2.4 – 15 | 3.6 -24 | 7.9 – 51 | 8.10 – 58

Defeated by

Morningside Panthers 4.2 – 26 | 8.6 – 54 | 13.8 – 86 | 18.12 – 120

Best: Beer, Sondergeld, Woods, McEvoy, Maricic, Davis

Goals: Dickfos 4, Sondergeld, Bridge, Woods, Scott 1

Metis Wealth Match Review - Colts Make it 7 Straight

Colts rise to 3rd with strong win.

Sunday afternoon in the twilight game at the nest, the Magpie colts added another win to make it 7 in a row, and now sit 3rd on the ladder, just one win behind the top two.

It was another example of how tight this squad has become, and when they have a reason to bind together, this group form a formidable unit. Assuming they were going to be light on for numbers, both Captain Dom Misso and Vice-Captain Liam Reynolds put their hands up to play despite carrying calf/Achilles injuries. This, along with last year's u/17's premiership winning captain Jake Farrell, who had no hesitation backing up from playing a quality game in the reserves, gave the Magpies the full 22 to do battle. Its guys like these lads that are prepared to go the extra mile when asked, that gives the club great confidence in what they can produce in the coming years.

The side was lead out by our 3 indigenous stars Chae Lawson, Ziggy Fisher & Phillip Stumer, as a mark of respect to for the AFL's indigenous round. These young men are a credit to their families and the speech they made to the squad before the game proves these lads can be future leaders.

All focused on inclusion, mateship and everyone being equal, it's no wonder they hold such respect among the group. It doesn't hurt that they are all footy excitement machines in their own right.!!

The first qtr started off with a bang and the intensity brought by the Magpies was great, resulting in a quick goal and noisy celebration. Unfortunately, for the next few minutes, Morningside, to their credit also lifted around the ground and it took the boys some time to refocus and adapt. It's the first time they have been challenged strongly at the contest, and after a few minutes of readjustment, the Pies settled and started to force their way through. 6 points was the margin at qtr time.

After pointing out the obvious, and a commitment to adhere to basic principles of defend first, then attack, work for each other with team 1st acts, and take the game on when in possession, the colts played a brand of footy that was difficult for Morningside to match. DeRooy and Farrell were marking everything, Senescall was playing out of his skin at half forward, in what we would later learn was one of the bravest displays by a young man we have seen, and Green on a wing was providing great drive and a physical presence. The way the boys lifted to cover the restricted output of regular quality midfielders Misso and Reynolds meant as a whole the side did not miss a beat. A 6 goal to 1 qtr was the reward.

As the atmosphere drained from the oval after half time and the pressing need to limit Farrells game time, it was important the squad kept at it and generated their own excitement. It's been a focus all season that the side are self-generating and the impact of that was seen in the third qtr where Renner was playing his best game for the year, Grant, Gainsford and R.Johnson were providing the required contest and Roderick was a rock across half back. The result was an even better 6 goals to 0 qtr.

In the last, and with the game in hand the Magpies were challenged to finish off the good work after conceding 5 goals last week in junk time. To keep minds focused the team was swung around position wise and it did help to a degree, kicking4.5 to 2.2 .

Highlands had a huge game in the ruck, Luke was the complete role player at CHB, and Vine continues his quality season rotating between fullback and Ruck.

The end result was a convincing 90 point win for theyoung Magpies.  They are now 7-1 for the year, but face a testing 2 week period after the bye , facing preseason favourites Southport and the unbeaten Maroochydore back to back. This 2-week period will show where the side genuinely sit among the top sides, and both the players and coaching group are excited to see how they measure up. Given a reasonable run with injuries and selection, the Pies can be very confident that their team 1st style of play will stand up against the best.

Magpies 19.12.126DefM'Side 5.6.36

Goals : DeRooy 6, Farrell 4, Lawson 3, Stumer 2,Grant, Senescall, Vine & Reynolds 1 each

Best : DeRooy, Senescall, Highlands, Lawson, Renner & Green.

In sad news,  valuable member of the team - Josh Senescall lost his Father Monday after a long and brave battle with Cancer. Both Josh and Michael are two of the most fantastic human beings many have had the pleasure of knowing. Every member of the squad sends their thoughts to the Senescall family, and the Magpie Family are here to support him through this difficult time.

PLACE PREVIEW - MAGPIES LOOK TO SWOOP ON PANTHERS

The Western Magpies will be looking to hand the Morningside Panthers their third straight QAFL defeat when they meet at the Nest on Sunday at 2pm.  With the Panthers and Magpies sitting 4th and 5th on the ladder respectively, this week shapes as a crucial outing for both sides, who have experienced mixed fortunes in 2016 to date, and a win could secure a Top 5 spot with 1 game to come before the mid point of the season.

The Magpies got off to a slow start in 2016 with an opening loss to the Vultures, and also letting one slip against the Cats - while the Panthers started beautifully with a 5-0 stretch to start the year.  However, recent weeks have seen a contrast in form as the Pies have bounced back with 2 wins on the trot, whilst the Panthers will be licking their wounds after consecutive heavy losses.

While it goes without saying 'beware the wounded Panther' - the Magpies have looked up and about on the track this week and and 'beware the resurgent Magpies' is also a worthy cliche in this instance!

Into the side comes speedster Sonny Aneet after two quality games in the reserves, Drew Mitchell returning from injury to add a quality goalkicking mid-fielder to the mix and Chris Hunt to fill a key defensive post, also in his return from injury.  After an excellent display in the reserves last week, Cory Hopkins also comes into the side adding some outside class and speed to the mix in a side known to have plenty of grunt in the engine room.

Out of the side go Val Pope and Mitch Stallard due to unavailability, Brodie Easton back to the Reserves and Brent Staker due to another hamstring niggle that continues to frustrate the big man, who has been putting plenty of work in on the track.

There is a bit of a new look to the lineup this week, not just with new or returning faces - but also with how the Pies will line up.  Regular defender and Round 6 Rising Star Nominee, Ryhs Bridge has been moved onto the wing to exploit his run, carry and excellent disposal - while the bigger body of Brady Allen fills a key defensive post at Centre Half Back, where he offers size, strength, aggression and a potent left foot to launch an attack from the back half.

Drew Mitchell comes into the side on a flank, but will no doubt find himself part of the midfield mix, while Luke Scott will look to start where he finished last week by hitting the scoreboard regularly from Centre Half Forward.

Up front, Dickfos will be looking for another strong showing this week after good signs vs UQ, and will hope to finish off his hard work in front of goal this week to apply scoreboard pressure to the Panthers.

The Magpies this boast a host of on-ball options, so the starting on-ball division of Carseldine, Crawford and Sondergeld will be looking to work hard early to establish ascendancy before taking a well earned break while the likes of Mitchell, McEvoy, Hopkins, Jeanke-Cain et al push through to maintain the run needed to outwork their opposition.

Tackling machine Richard Wenham lines up on the wing and will be looking to make an impact around the stoppage exits with his superb pressure game, while Doc Davis lines up in the familiar half back role where his form has been consistent for an extended period.

The bench is a mix of speed and size with Aneet and Hopkins balancing Billing and Barling, offering versatility to the side.  Barling can offer a much needed chop out to Beer in the ruck, and also offer a marking option up forward while Aneet will be looking to light up Chelmer with his speed in his return to the senior lineup.

It promises to be a cracking contest on Sunday afternoon in front of a big home crowd with plenty of junior support expected to be down at the groundand an U/6's game to be played at half-time.

To celebrate AFL's Indigenous Round., former Sherwood Magpie star, Greg Butler will toss the coin for the Seniors match.  Greg was the eldest of seven boys who all played with Sherwood. He was a talented indigenous player who represented Queensland at all junior levels and played in four premiership sides with the Club before going to Kedron. There he played in the 1980 premiership side and totalled over two hundred QAFL games.

Current indigenous players Chris Hunt and Aaron Maricic will also lead the side onto the ground.

Western Magpies vs Morningside Panthers Sunday 29 May - 2pm @ Chelmer

B: Maricic - Hunt - L.Mitchell

HB: Davis - Allen - McEvoy

C: Bridge - Carseldine (C) - Wenham

HF: D.Mitchell - Scott - Woods (C)

F: Jeanke-Cain - Dickfos - Lewis

Foll: Beer - Crawford - Sondergeld

Int: Aneet - Barling - Billing - Hopkins

24 Fit - Reserves Preview

The Magpies take on the competition benchmark and ladder leader, Morningside on Sunday at the Nest in what will prove a crucial match for a team that has shown plenty of talent, but also gone missing at times this year.  Coach Quentin Johnson will be looking for consistent effort, and hopefully some consistency in availability in coming weeks as the regularity of changes to this team so far in 2016, have certainly been a factor in the results to date.

Coming into the side this week is plenty of youth and talent, via inclusions such as Luke De Nys, Charlie Pershouse, Sam Copland and Will Fletcher, while Jake Heard and Jake Farrell will be better for their run last week after returning from injury.

Another big inclusion is also Brodie Easton after a very solid showing in the Seniors last week, he will be looking to keep his name in the mix for senior selection by maintaining his excellent reserves form from season 2016 so far.

The Panthers lineup is known for their slick ball movement, and run from defence and the Magpies will need to be on their game across the park with their tackling and pressure on the ball carrier.  Blake McClennan, Jake Heard and Will Johnson in particular will be looking to prevent easy rebounds for the Panthers and lock the ball in the forward 50 by covering the spread.

In Hockley, Copland and Pershouse the Magpies boast a range of marking targets with different skillsets, and provided the midfield battle is not lost - should provide headaches in the air for Morningside down back.

In defence, the experienced spine of Sean McEvoy and Gabe McKinnon is well supported by talented up and coming youth in De Nys, Mazerolle and Farrell as well as the more experienced Jae Humphrey in the pocket.

The starting on-ball division of Gibb, Workman, Easton and Devlin will be looking to get on top early and work hard through the middle.  With plenty of rotations available who can go through the center of the ground, the midfield brigade should get through a power of work as a collective group to push the ball forward and keep it there.

Get down to the nest on Sunday at 11am to see a classic reserves battle, blending experience with youth in what should be an entertaining battle.

Reserves vs Panthers

B: Humphrey - McEvoy - Mazerolle

HB: De Nys - McKinnon - Farrell

C: Green - Devlin - Pukallus

HF: Copland - Pershouse - Heard

F: Johnson - Hockley - McClennan

Foll: Gibb - Workman - Easton

Int: Donovan - Fletcher - Hubbert - Walker

CK Group - Colts Preview

Colts look to continue good work

The young Magpies will be looking for win number 7 in a row when they take on Morningside in the afternoon game this Sunday at the nest.

Since being given a football lesson in round 1, the squad has rebounded well and has not tasted defeat since. The victories have been built on a team 1st approach and a preparedness to use each and every member of the side in any situation. This has resulted in having 23 different players feature in the best players, we have had 19 different goal kickers, and have used 31 players so far. All this in 7 rounds of footy…

This week sees the side line up without some top end talent again, but as has been the case all year, the side that runs out will be expected to continue to play the exciting brand of football that they have been developing this year.

The coaches are looking for the full forward line of Stumer, DeRooy & Lawson to continue their recent good form, and they will need good supply from Reynolds, Gainsford, R Johnson, Allen and their fleet of running mids. This group has been superb in patches this year, but they are still to put 4 qtrs together. They will be very nice to watch when they do..

Again much will be expected of the ruck and key post division of Highlands, Fisher & Vine. They are one down this week with Rigsby-Jones set to miss due to work commitments, the loss offset somewhat by the inclusion of Mark Adamson, back from Knee & shoulder injuries.

Expect to see Smith, Vagne, Senescall & Renner rotate anywhere between Half Forward and half back, their versatility is key in getting the right matchups. All will be asked to continue to perform wherever the side needs them. They have been great this year and playing many different roles can only help their development,

The Squad also welcomes Will Burgess in for his first game of the year. After a month of solid training he has earned the right to a game and it is a good reward for some consistent effort.

The bounce is straight after the seniors game, so why not hang around and support these lads who are quietly building a pretty solid case to be considered one of the sides to beat in this year’s Colts Competition.

RHP Physio - Representative Player Update

If you don’t have plans on Sunday, head on down to Metricon Stadium to watch the QLD U/18’s side take on Tasmania at Yeronga in their final game of the NAB AFL National Championships at 11am.

This will be a cracker of a game to watch, and you will get to see young Magpie Will Fletcher lacing up the boots for the QLD U/18 side.

Will is a Magpie junior through and through, starting his football in the Sherwood U/14’s only a few years back and instantly showing a natural ability for the game, despite being a late starter.

Showing poise, balance and superb agility – Will has mixed his obvious natural talent with a strong work ethic, persistence and eagerness to learn to lift his game to the level required for State U/18 selection, despite having another year up his sleeve in this age group.

Will was a part of the Undefeated Sherwood U/17 Div 1 Premiership side in 2015, and despite being just 180cm, is great in the air and loves to take the odd ‘hanger’.  He is a versatile player, but is best when running through the midfield or off half back.

A product of the Magpies club based academy, his game has developed strongly as he progressed through to the Lions Academy and now in to the State U/18 side.  Everyone at the Magpies wishes him well on the weekend, and congratulate him on his efforts thus far.

PLACE PREVIEW - MAGPIES LOOK TO CONSOLIDATE

The Western Magpies take on UQ at the nest on Saturday, in a crucial match for the 2016 season.  Sitting 7th and 3-3 after 6 rounds, the Pies are in a congested ladder, where just 2 wins separates 3rd from 8th and the 4 points on offer are a huge carrot for the improving Magpie outfit.

New Senior Coach Nathan Clarke is not looking to make too many changes to the Magpies game plan and wants his charges to have a strong defensive focus and make it tough for the opposition to score.  Clarke has a pretty clear philosophy, that the Magpies need to be strong on contested ball and make the opposition earn every kick - both strengths of this side over the past 18 months.

The Magpies expect a tough encounter against the Red Lions, who have had no trouble kicking a score this year and have been in most games well into the 2nd half, with only some inaccurate kicking for goal costing them against Morningside in a narrow 8 point loss.  As a result, only a strong 4 quarter effort from the Pies will ensure the 4 points are secured.

Returning to the side is important swing man Luke Scott, after being a late withdrawal last week due to illness, while Brodie Easton has been rewarded for solid and consistent reserves form with a return to the senior side for the first time in 2016.  Out go Sam Copland to the Lions NEAFL side, and Jake Goodall to Redlands.

The Magpies have named a mobile running side, well equipped to deal with a Red Lions outfit known to have plenty of zip.  With Round 6 Rising Star nominee, Rhys Bridge named at Full-Back and the mobile Luke Scott at Centre Half Back while Mitch Stallard and Doc Davis fill the flanks, creating a very skilful half-back line capable of launching plenty of attack.

Brent Staker in his 2nd game for the Pies should be better for the run and will take his place in a dangerous looking half forward line, with Val Pope on one flank and Co-Captain Lachlan Woods on the other.  With each player offering a very different, but effective skill-set - this half forward line should pose plenty of problems for the UQ defenders.

Matt Sondergeld has been in excellent form in recent weeks, and will be looking to work off tall targets Staker and Alex Dickfos when the ball hits the deck.

The Magpies have a very strong on-ball division, particularly with Co-Captain Cal Carseldine in his Grogan Medal winning form, and Gareth Crawford showing in recent weeks why he was such a highly prized recruit with his superb work at stoppages.

The Magpies will need to ensure UQ can't get the ball on the outside and use their pace, as they have proven they can be a high scoring side when they get going and the Magpies won't be looking for a Saturday afternoon 'shootout'.  Strong defence first footy over 4 quarters and playing to the Magpies strength is what will get the job done for the Magpies in this must win encounter.

Western Magpies vs UQ Red Lions - Saturday 21 May, 2pm @ the Nest

B: Tim McEvoy - Rhys Bridge - Luke Mitchell

HB: Mitch Stallard - Luke Scott - Matt Davis

C: Aaron Maricic (R) - Cal Carseldine (C) - Richard Wenham

HF: Val Pope - Brent Staker - Lachlan Woods (C)

F: Matt Sondergeld (R) - Alex Dickfos - Brodie Easton

Foll: Dom Beer - Ben Jeanke-Cain - Gareth Crawford

INT: Nick Barling - Brady Allen - David Lewis - Todd Billing

CFMG Capital - Reserves Preview

Magpie Reserves looking to bounce back to winners list

The Western Magpies Reserves take on the UQ Red Lions in a twilight match this week commencing at 5:15pm at the Nest.

Once again, the team has had significant forced changes, but still looks like a formidable outfit with plenty of senior experience on every line.

Some of the players going out of the side are hard nut back flanker Ricky Dudley and recent senior debutant Luke De Nys who are both unavailable, Charlie Pershouse off to the Lions NEAFL side and Brodie Easton, elevated to the Seniors after consistent reserves form every week, while Rigsby-Jones and Morrison return to Colts football for the weekend.

Into the side are speedster Jake Heard returning from injury, who will add plenty of zip up forward and a good on-ball change if required.   The experienced Cory Hopkins also comes in on a flank, Billy Johnson will add some penetrating kicking on the other flank to add great balance to the half forward line.

Spearhead, Matt Hockley has overcome an injury scare to line up in the goalsqaure, and will be looking to return to his dominant 2015 form that saw him kick a few bags when he was up and firing.

Sonny Aneet on a wing will be better for the run after his first game in 2016 last week, and will be looking to show some dash with his unquestionable outside speed.

It's an experienced defence, with Jadan Morton and Sean McEvoy filling the key posts and the experienced Gabe McKinnon setting up play across half back.

With the Western Magpies Reserves sitting 8th on the ladder, just 1 spot above the 9th place UQ - this is an important game, with the Magpies looking to stay in finals contention.

Be sure to hang around after the Seniors to watch the Reserves strut their stuff under lights.

Western Magpies Reserves vs UQ - Sat 21 May @515pm at the Nest

B: Page - McEvoy - Humphrey

HB: McKinnon - Morton - Mazorelle

C: Aneet - Devlyn - Pukallus

HF: Johnson - Walker - Hopkins

F: Hubbard - Hockley - Heard

Foll: Gibb - McClennan - Workman

INT: Hyndman - M.Davis - Burton - Donovan

24 Fit - Colts Preview

Magpie Youth gunning for 6 straight

This week our young magpies break away from the Senior squads to take on Aspley at their home ground.

After showing some steady and consistent improvement each week, they now have the challenge of proving that gains made are permanent. The level of effort and commitment required to stay in the top 4 means each and every week they have to be mentally ready to perform and the test of that is when they play these games away from the senior club. They will need to have no drop off in intensity and that the standards set over the last 5 weeks.

Aspley's best is very good, as their record shows, so the lads are prepared for a high quality opponent and have prepared for a true 4 qtr battle .

Into the side comes Dom Morrison back from Reserves duty, Connor Green and Matt Davis . Out of the side are the very unlucky Alex Davila with an ACL, Skipper Dom Misso with a calf/ Achilles strain, and W.Johnson to the reserves for this week.

Coach Justin Gore says " This is a danger game for our boys, Aspley are much better than the ladder suggests, but as we've shown, if we have the right mindset, play team 1st footy, and back ourselves, we will be hard to beat again"
 

Game starts at 9.30am at Graham Rd Aspley's home ground. All are welcome and the Young Magpies would sure love your support.

Team :

B: Smith . Vine . Luke
HB: Vagne . Fisher . Senescall
C: Green.  Allen . Gainsford
Hf: Renner.  Mason. Morrison.
F : Stumer. DeRooy. Lawson
Foll: Highlands Reynolds Johnson

Int : Roderick . Grant . Rigsby- Jones . Davis.