Coopers Community Footy - Woodsmen into Elimination Final

Woodsmen to hit finals with momentum

Western Magpies affiliate the Woodsmen have finished the H&A season in 5th place on the ladder, but take crucial momentum into the finals after strong back to back victories in the closing 2 rounds.

After an indifferent start, the Woodsmen have re-grouped late in the year and have close to a full strength list to choose from as finals approach and are confident of a strong premiership assault.

The Woodsmen take on Sandgate at Sandgate in the Elimination Final on Friday August 5 at 730pm.  Sandgate sat on top of the ladder for a majority of 2016 but were soundly beaten by the Woodsmen in the final round last week, and also in Round 9 – making up 2 of their 3 losses for the year and pushing them to 4th place and into the elimination final.

After last weeks comprehensive win, the Woodsmen will welcome back their skipper Sean Toohey, key defender Paul Eaton and utility Brett McEvoy to strengthen the side.  This will be the strongest the team has looked on paper all year and they are primed to push deep into finals, despite finishing 5th at the close of the H&A season.

As always, the Woodsmen have built their season on a strong and miserly defence – again lead by Tim Green at CHB with his intercept marking and exceptional reading of the play.  Paul Eaton has improved again in his second season at full back, with his penetrating long kicks and run from deep in defence a feature.  Stalwarts on the flanks and in the pockets, Matty Prior and Chris La Burniy both enjoyed superb seasons, particularly with their ability to cover for teammates and in some cases play both tall or short as the situation demands.

In the midfield, Sam Curtis has recently re-captured his early season hot form and while he is an exceptional ball winner – his tackling is team lifting, particularly his trade mark run downs of bigger opponents.  Playing coach Chris Mihalopoulos has enjoyed the increased midfield depth late in the year, and along with fellow midfielder Chris Davis – has snuck forward to hit the scoreboard regularly, with both pushing up the goalkicking tally late in the year.  Brett McEvoy and Greg Matthews both re-joined the side mid-season and have been important in adding to the midfield depth and relieving pressure.  On the wings, the evergreen Kiran Verma continues to provide crucial outside run and when he regularly gets the ball on transition out wide, the Woodsmen are looking their best. On the other wing – David Fraser has returned from a Premiership season in Mackay and while he has lacked continuity, he has provided a very strong physical presence late in the year and his exceptional high marking ability has returned just in time for the business end of the year.  The Woodies have had a revolving door in the ruck this year, but have recently found some stability with Darcy McCewen back into the side permanently and Warwick Forman providing superb backup, and also filling key defensive posts.

Up front the Woodies struggled at times this year to kick a score, with so many players going through the forward line during the season and a lack of structure and continuity this was always going to be a problem.  However, with Gerard Moore back on deck at CHF to straighten up the attack and a good balance of talls and smalls – the Woodies are looking stronger up front late in the year.  Long-time skipper, Sean Toohey has struggled with injury this year but should return with a vengeance looking to lift the cup as skipper for the 3rd time.  When he has been on the park, he has regularly hit the scoreboard and been creative across half forward.  Also at ground level, Matt Monaghan hasn’t dominated like he has in the past, but is hitting his straps late in the year both up forward and occasional stints through the middle, and will be an X-Factor for the Woodsmen in the finals.  Matt Garland has proven an important regular inclusion, providing a quality tall target up forward and also pushing through the midfield both at ground level and in the ruck and his versatility provides crucial depth across the park for the Woodsmen.  Also providing a tall target up front, is Andrew Thomson who has led the goalkicking in 2016 but has also spent time filling key defensive posts and ruck duties where required.

First year player Nick Masters has shown constant improvement throughout the season, and provides a versatile option on the wing, half forward or halfback, while Lochie McDonald has been the very definition of ‘versatile’ in 2016, filling almost every position on the field other than ruck duties at some point during the year.  Lochie enjoyed a star turn at full-forward in a 2nd half comeback vs Zillmere in a 1 point loss, and then only last week lined up at full-back on the dangerous Sandgate full-forward in a comprehensive win.  He has spent time at half forward, half back, on the wing and also played regularly through the midfield.  It is expected to be a tough week at the selection table this week – which is a good problem to have – with Premiership players like Jeffson Fehr-Smith and Ben Eckert vying for selection along with club stalwarts and newcomers like Tristan Mathews, Dylan Mudge, Tom and Dave Schultz, Andrew Bell, Russell Peter and many others all worthy of selection.

Mid-season recruit, Blake Barkley – who has played every game since arriving – unfortunately suffered a neck injury vs Sandgate last week and looks unlikely to recover in time.  However, he could be right to push for a re-call as the Woodsmen expect to push deeper into the finals.

It’s a big ask, but the Woodies would welcome any support heading north to Lemke Road to take on Sandgate in the elimination final.

Woodsmen AFC vs Sandgate Hawks – Friday August 5, 730pm – Lemke Road, Taigum.

Sci Fleet Taringa - Ressies Review

RESERVES IN SOLID WIN TO KEEP FINALS HOPES ALIVE

The Western Magpies Reserves recovered from a slow start to record a good 28 point victory over Broadbeach. The Cats had 3 goals on the board before the Pies realised they had a football game to play and then the Pies woke up and booted 2 goals late in the quarter then a further 7 goals in the second quarter for 9 goals straight to lead by 6 goals at half time. 

The Pies then appeared to rest on their laurels after than period of ascendancy and invited Broadbeach back into the game, allowing the Cats 4 goals to the Pies solitary one goal and the gap closed to 17 points at three quarter time. Broadbeach narrowed the gap to 10 points at the half way mark of the final quarter before the Pies steadied with 2 late goals to seal the 4 points and keep their slim finals hopes alive. 

The Pies unveiled a new player in Joe Murphy, a solidly built player who looked all class with a penetrating left foot kick and sure ball handling and he impressed on debut.

Jamie Page across half back played his best game for the Pies with a strong performance and Liam Dwyer with 3 goals at CHF also impressed on his return game from an early season foot injury and he finished with three goals. 

Gabe McKinnon enjoyed a move to the forward line to boot 2 goals and Nick Barling at CHB returned to his best after shrugging off several niggling injuries and will be pushing for  senior recall in coming weeks.

Rhys Bridge also kept his name in front of the selectors with another strong performance across half back, especially early when the Pies were on the back foot.

Coach Craig Allen was pleased with his sides comeback after a slow start and will be looking for a good showing against lowly UQ on Saturday before trying to conjure at least one win against either ladder leaders Morningside or the fourth placed Surfers Paradise in the last 2 rounds. 

Western Magpies 15.9 - 99

Defeated

Broadbeach Cats 10.11 - 71

Best: Page, Dwyer, Muprhy, Bridge, Barling, McKinnon

Goals: Dwyer, Johnson 3, MCkinnon 2, Hockley, Taylor

METIS WEALTH MATCH REVIEW - PIES SURGE TO 3RD

A strong first half resulted in the Western Magpies having a solid victory over Broadbeach Cats at Broadbeach on Saturday.

The 49 point victory sees the Pies move into third place behind Labrador on percentage but 2 games behind ladder leader Palm Beach-Currumbin.

The Pies withstood an early assault from the Cats and then made the most of their chances in the first quarter to boot 7 goals and go into the first break with a 4 goal lead.

The Pies had obviously learnt their lesson from their earlier clash this year when in that match they dominated the first half but were wasteful and then had to endure the ignominy of coughing up a 6 goal lead to be defeated in a soul-destroying loss in the dying stages of a match they dominated.

That the Pies have recovered to be a Premiership threat is testimony to their resilience and self-belief.

The win was soured by serious injuries to Mitchell Stallard, whose wretched luck with injuries continued when he landed awkwardly late in the second quarter and looks to have ruptured his posterior cruciate ligament, and debutante Lachie Dennis, who sprained an ankle in the third quarter soon after booting his first senior goal for the Magpies.

The Pies only booted a further 5 goals in the second half as they attempted to slow down play due to two rotations down off the bench. As a result, they were guilty of overusing the ball in the second half but were always in control and never threatened on the scoreboard after quarter time. 

Val Pope and Matt Sondergeld were up and about early and  both had 2 goals in the first quarter with Sondergeld's two goals coming from pressure-generated turn-overs. Both featured in the best players list

The Pies booted a further 5 goals to 2 in then second quarter to be well on top at the half way mark, leading by 43 points.

Chris Hunt had a superb match in defence, handsomely beating several opponents then generating drive with run and carry. His endeavours were never better illustrated when late in the third quarter he chased down a Cats player running into an open goal and laid a desperate tackle after giving him a 6 metre head start. He was well supported by David Lewis, who is now playing at half back and is becoming an attacking defender, and Tim McEvoy kept mopping up as he has done so well this year.

Luke Scott across half back then drifting forward again showed his class and versatility, taking many telling marks in defence then also kicking 2 goals when slipping forward.  He had a willing partner in crime in Tyler Jones who slotted back into the Pies side seamlessly to be a fine player with excellent reading of the play and strong rebound football. 

Others to play well in a solid team effort were midfielders Gareth Crawford, Drew Mitchell and Brodie Easton. Alex Dickfos worked hard at full forward and deserved a few more goals than the three he kicked, missing a few chances he would often kick.

Senior Coach Nathan Clarke had this to say post win:

“They were on top early, played like they had nothing to lose.

“They could have been three goals up, but then we found our rhythm and went on with it.

“At half time it was about how we manage it after losing those blokes.

“When they win those clearances they are dangerous. We needed to test them out with our ball movement.

“The guys are pretty disciplined, so were able to settle early.”

The Pies travel across the river to meet UQ at University on Saturday August 6, in a match they can't afford to take for granted - before season defining matches in the final two rounds against Morningside and Surfers Paradise.

 Western Magpies 7.4 - 46 | 12.7 - 79 | 15.10 - 100 | 17.15 - 117

defeated

Broadbeach Cats 3.4 - 22 | 5.6 - 36 | 7.8 - 50 | 10.8 - 68

Best: Scott, Hunt, Lewis, Jones, Pope, Sondergeld

Goals: Pope, Dickfos 3, Sondergeld, Scott, Morton 2, Dennis, D.Mitchell, Crawford, Carseldine, Easton 1

24 Fit - Ressies Preview

SUDDEN DEATH STARTS FOR PIES RESERVES

The Western Magpies Reserves start a weekly sudden death campaign where a loss will end any hopes of a finals appearance this season. The Pies must win all four of their matches if they are to figure in September action.

The Magpies went down to Broadbeach in a costly loss earlier in the year and will be keen to reverse that result, and this outfit has shown at times during the year what it is capable of when fully fit an available.

The Pies have had another eight changes to their side with several good inclusions in onballer Joel Workman and full back Luke De Nys, both back after head knocks, CHF Liam Dwyer returning after a long lay off with injury and Jake Heard back from the Seniors to inject some pace and flare to the Pies forward line.

Out are Lachie Dennis, who earns promotion for his Senior debut after recent good form, Charlie Pershouse goes to the Lions in the NEAFL, Todd Billing is unavailable and a number of Colts players get a week off to re-charge before the finals.

CHB Nick Barling appreciated the bye to get over a few niggles and he will be keen to put several solid games together to push for a senior recall. Likewise Rhys Bridge, who has shown he is a very capable senior defender who adds depth to the Pies squad.

Liam Dwyer returns after a long term injury and he showed good early season form beforethe injury and will be a capable replacement for Pershouse.

With Heard and young forward Jake Farrell flanking him the Pies have a strong half forward line.

De Nys strengthens the backline and Sean McEvoy also boosts the defence after also missing several matches mid-season.

Chris Devlin has been consistent all season on-ball and Blake McClennan has also enjoyed a strong middle part of the year. Both will need to be at their best for the Pies to prevail in a crucial match against a team they should be able to defeat.

Western Magpies Reserves v Broadbeach at Broadbeach on Saturday, July 30th at 11.30 am

B: S McEvoy L De Nys J Page

HB: H HeathN Barling R Bridge

C:  B Johnson C Devlin M Mazarolle

HF:  J HeardL DwyerJ Farrell

F:  S Hubbert M HockleyG McKinnon

Rucks:  G. Gibb, J WorkmanB McClennan

I/C : S TaylorB. Walker S Donovan, J Murphy 

PLACE PREVIEW - PIES IN CRUCIAL MATCH VS BROADBEACH

The Western Magpies will encounter a dangerous Broadbeach Cats outfit on Saturday when they travel to the Gold Coast for their crucial Round 15 clash on Saturday.

The Pies tumbled from second to fifth on the back of a narrow loss 2 weeks ago against Labrador and are in a bunfight for a finals place, let alone a top three finish. Six into five does not go and there are several crucial matches in coming weeks between the top sides that will determine the make up of the final five.  With Palm Beach taking on Mt Gravatt in a 1 v 2 battle and Labrador and Surfers meeting in a 3 v 4 clash, the QAFL competition will resemble a game of snakes and ladders with the losers slipping big time, and winners jumping multiple places.

A win for the Pies should push them to 3rd on the ladder, while a loss will see them likely tumble out of the 5 altogether at the conclusion of this round.

The QAFL flag is there for the taking by the side that hits its stride at the right time of the season and any slip can prove costly--a top three finish must be the aim for the Pies.

The Pies selectors had three forced changes with Brent Staker and Richard Wenham missing with injury and Sam Copland getting a call up to the Brisbane Lions NEAFL team. Jake Heard goes back to bolster the Reserves.

In comes Redland duo of Tyler Jones, who returns after missing a few matches with injury, and Matt Sondergeld, who was in fine form before a recall to the Redland side. Alex Dickfos also returns after one week out with injury and youngster Lachie Dennis makes his Senior debut after good Reserves form.

Staker is a big out as he straightens the Pies and his leadership is vital. He also takes the best defender each week which frees up other forwards. Alex Dickfos returns and will need to be the main forward target in Staker's absence, a role we know he is capable of.

Brady Allen was the catalyst for the Pies second half comeback 2 weeks ago when moved to CHF and he will need to again be a presence up forward. With Luke Scott likely to be pushed forward and Val Pope always a dangerous forward the Pies still have the firepower to kick a winning score.

The Pies midfield of Callum Carseldine, Gareth Crawford, Lachlan Woods and Ben Jaenke-Cain have been excellent through the middle of the year and will again be needed to kick-start the Pies--hopefully a bit earlier than last match! 

Matt Davis has been good on a wing and in defence Tyler Jones was on fire earlier in the year, Tim McEvoy is always in control across half-back and Chris Hunt and Luke Mitchell have been the models of consistency in the last line of defence.

The Pies will be wary of the dangerous Cats and will be keen to avenge their loss early in the season which is still raw for the Pies after seemingly having the game in control for most of the day. The Pies cannot afford a slip up in this match and will be fired up for a big effort to reverse the home loss from earlier in the season.

Western Magpies v Broadbeach Cats - Saturday July 30, 2pm @ Broadbeach

B: Mitchell Stallard - Chris Hunt - Luke Mitchell

HB: Tim McEvoy - David Lewis - Tyler Jones

C: Matt Davis - Callum Carseldine (C) - Luke Scott

HF: Drew Mitchell - Brady Allen - Lachlan Woods (C)

F: Gareth Crawford - Alex Dickfos - Val Pope

Foll: Dom Beer - Ben Jeanke-Cain - Matt Sondergeld

INT: Jadan Morton - Aaron Maricic - Brodie Easton - Lachie Dennis

Coopers Club Event - Alchemy Night a Roaring Success!

On Saturday July 16, the Western Magpies and Sherwood Football Clubs celebrated their mid season "Alchemy Night" at the highly regarded Alchemy Restaurant on Eagle St.

Over 180 guests attended the event and were able to mingle with AFL greats such as Simon Black, Luke Power, Lenny Hayes, Gary O'Donnell and Amon Buchanan.

Guests were also treated to the dulcet tones of Dave Power, who provided great entertainment during the evening, as he does at his regular 'Deckchair Sunday' gig at the club.

Sophie Formica, as MC was in excellent form, whilst superb food was served and beverages flowed freely during the evening.

Big thanks also goes to Indooroopilly Shoppingtown for the fantastic gift card, awarded to former Premiership Player - Sean Toohey as the lucky door prize winner!

Senior Coach - Nathan Clarke, hosted an insightful footy forum and discussion, that had everyone on their toes and also in attendance were Local State Member, Scott Emerson and Brisbane Lions CEO - Greg Swann.

This wonderful night was put together by the club support group of Mark Blackberry, Cherie Morrison, Marty Webber, Michelle Gunn & John Fletcher.  This group did a fantastic job organising and promoting the event,  that brought together a great range of attendees from within the club, but also from the networks of the wider community and club supporters.

The sincerest of thanks goes to this great sub-committee, sponsors, attendees and everyone else involved incoming together to support this fantastic club event.

REUNION OF 1981 SHERWOOD PREMIERSHIP TEAMS

Western Magpies A.F.C. will be hosting a 35 year re-union of all past players from the Sherwood A.F.C. 1981 Seniors and Reserve Grade Premiership teams coached by Warren Selvage and Paul Hope.

This event is to be held at the final home and away game of the Western Magpies 2016 season on 20TH August from 12noon onwards at Chelmer when the Magpies take on fellow finals contender Surfers Paradise. .

In 1981 Warren Selvage was appointed as Senior player/coach after the 1980coach, Lindsay Jacob returned to Victoria for family reasons.

Warren was a born and bred Sherwood player, coming up through the junior ranks and his love of the club was very instrumental in the appointment from the committee at the time.

The Seniors went through the season with just one loss (to Acacia Ridge).  Warren Selvage said this did not sit well with the Sherwood players and they plotted revenge, which they tasted by defeating Acacia Ridge by 101 points in the Second Semi Final.

The Grand Final was played in wet and cold conditions against Aspley, at Dittmer Park, Mt Gravatt. Aspley led at half time but the sun came out in the second half and Sherwood came out firing to go on to win by 49 points (co-incidentally, this would be the same winning margin again in 1982).

Aspley was captain-coached by Terry Weller, who used his Windsor-Zillmere connections to qualify 4-5 Zillmere players prior to the finals’ series. It made no difference as Sherwood proved too strong.

In contrast to the Aspley side, Sherwood’s team was made up of local products who had come through the club’s junior ranks or lived and played football in the western suburbs (with the exception of John McColl and Jeff Stidwill). The two standout performances in the game was an 8 goal haul to Alan Giffard and the second half effort of Gregg Stewart coming off the bench, just prior to half time, to end up with four (4) second half goals. Stewart’s inclusion was a line ball selection decision which the selector’s debated for 45 minutes but it paid dividends.

The Reserves also won the flag, also defeating Aspley by about 8 goals to start the day on the right note and let the Magpies eventually celebrate a double premiership.

Paul Hope was appointed as player/coach of the Reserve grade after the position became vacant after the previous successful coach, Warren Brockwell decided not to seek another term.

Paul moved to the Western Suburbs in 1978 after spending his previous years playing for Windsor-Zilllmere from junior level to senior level.

Paul’s decision to play for Sherwood A.F.C. was made after being convinced by his work colleague and former Sherwood stalwart at the time, Maurie McNamee, who felt that the club would be a good fit for him and his young family. 

SCI FLEET - COLTS CONTINUE GOOD FORM

On Saturday night the Western Magpies Colts had the chance to put into practise the renewed focus on full field pressure and a team firstmentality that they have been working on the last month. The result was a very pleasing 88 point victory over a Coorparoo side containing some quality lads from the unbeaten Mt Gravatt Colts playing on permit.
  Following on from last weeks 150 point win, it's fair to say the young Magpies have hit some timely good form, and with one game left until the finals start it's an exciting prospect to see how far they can go.
  Leading the way were midfielders Rory Johnson, Skipper Dom Misso, Jimmy Gainford , Cal Grant & Matt Mazorelle . With mobile ruckman Kurt Vine, who has shown great development this year, they controlled the stoppages and fed the forward line some quality ball.
The small forwards Chae Lawson, Phil Stumer & Ash Gore, in a new role applying pressure and generally annoying the opposition defender, we're getting plenty of chances to wreak havoc. Standout full forward Jeremy DeRooy however was having a rare off night, having to deal with some pretty grubby tactics from his opponent. Still he worked to bring the ball to ground for the little guys to score . Jake Farrell provided a strong mobile target at CHF and Pat Renner built again on his recent good form by presenting a marking target and having a big influence on the game. Jaiden Johnstone -Bates worked very hard as the rotation forward and made sure the side had no weakness when the starting forwards or mids needed a breather.
The side enjoyed having Billy Johnson back from the Reserves and he showed the value of playing up a grade in the way he attacked the play and made space to receive the short kick or release handball. Our guys just have to learn to use that option when it presents.
Ethan Sivijs , playing up from the Under 17's , showed why there are high hopes for him at the club, with a classy and error free game at half back. He looked like he had been there all season, strong in the contest and used the ball with a touch of class.
In Cam Smith, Tommy Luke, Tommy Roderick, Ryan VagneWill Burgess & Connor Green, the Colts have some very solid and reliable backline options, but it was Mark Adamson who has really stood up the last month. His improvement has been built on firstly just working on playing his role for the side, then using the confidence gained from that to now show talent as a running fullback and leaving his man to intercept opposition forward entries. He's come a long way from the start of the season and the coaching group are keen to see it continue.
The Colts have the bye this week, which will be used to reinforce the defence first style of play that can take them a long way in this year's final series. The aim is simple --""Be the team no one wants to play "

Western Magpies : 15.12.102
Cooparoo: 2.  2. 14
Goals : C. Lawson 3 B. Johnson3 ,A.Gore 2 , P.Renner2, J.Farrell 2. J. Gainford 2, R. Johnson

Best : R.Johnson, D.Misso, J.Gainford, P.Renner, M.Admason, P.Stumer.

PLACE PREVIEW - Magpie Colts Ready for Dangerous Opponent

This week while the Senior teams have their well-earned bye, the young Magpies take on Cooparoo on their home ground in a rare Saturday night time slot.

After a huge win last week, it will be crucial that the Colts stay focused again, and continue the recent improvement shown for the last few weeks. With the unbeaten Mt Gravatt providing Cooparoo with at least 6 players for this game, any thought of an easy night at the office has been squashed, which is a positive for our squad as we need all the quality competition they can get. The boys only have this game, then a bye and the last round against UQ before the finals start. So a continued focus on the tough contested style of footy that will win finals is the main theme for these games.

There are again a number of changes from last week’s side-- there has been no less than 4 changes every week and it’s a credit to the depth of talent in the club that the Colts are positioned well for a nice high finish after the regular season. 

Out of the side are Vice Captain Liam Reynolds, tough utility Josh Senescall, rapidly improving half back Dom Morrison, and the versatile Damon Allen.

Into the side comes key forward Jake Farrell, Tom Roderick and Billy Johnson and all will add to the team as they have all had good form in recent Reserves matches. Also in comes the talented Ethan Sivijs , who is having a sensational year with the Under 17’s. All will add quality to the squad.

Coach Justin Gore will expect a huge effort from all players to apply pressure all over the ground, as the aim is for the young Magpies to be the best defensive unit they can be.

In such an even competition, it’s a focus on pressure acts and creating opposition turnovers that will make them very hard to beat in any conditions and at any ground.

The Magpies Colts players and supporters hope to see as many of the larger family of loyal Magpies supporters come along and support your Colts in their second last home and away match this year. The Colts are currently fourth on the ladder but with a chance to climb higher and will feature in the Division 1 finals series. 

The squad for Saturday night's  game is : Misso, R.Johnson, B.Johnson, Gore, Vine, Smith, DeRooy, Lawson, Stumer, Gainford, Johnstone- Bates, Roderick, Farrell, Grant, Mazorelle, Vagne, Adamson, Luke, Burgess, Green, Renner, Sivijs.

Match is at Giffin Park at Coorparoo at 6.45 pm on Saturday, July 23.

Coopers Community Footy Update - Woodsmen press for finals

Western Magpies affiliate, the Woodsmen take on Coorparoo Kings this Friday night at the Nest at 730pm in a crucial encounter.

After a dominant undefeated 2014 Premiership Season and a Runners Up finish in 2015, the Woodies have had a tougher year in 2016 and currently sit 5th on the ladder with an 8-6 record and half a game clear of 6th place.

With 3 losses by less than 5 points and 2 more by less than 15 - the Woodsmen have been close enough but not good enough for much of the year, but hope to turn around their form as finals approach with a feeling in the squad that a Premiership is still very much for the taking in 2016.

There are 3 teams sitting well ahead of the pack at the top of the ladder, but pleasingly the Woodies have had wins over both 1st and 2nd place and went down by just 1 point to the 3rd place team - so the boys know their best is good enough when the whips are cracking come finals time.

With 2 rounds to go the Woodsmen need to secure at least one win to guarantee finals action, and this week looks like it will be the last home game of the year and in lieu of the QAFL bye we encourage the Magpies faithful to get down and support the Woodies in their quest to secure a finals berth.

It promises to be a hard fought battle against an experienced Coorparoo outfit and the Woodies would welcome plenty of support to get over the line.  The bar and kitchen will be open, so get down and enjoy a meal and a cracking game of amateur footy.

24 Fit - Ressies Review

RESERVES DOWN BUT STILL A FINALS CHANCE

The Western Magpies Reserves were well beaten by 2nd placed and defending Premier Labrador at Chelmer on Saturday. The Pies had several late withdrawals and went into the match undermanned, with five Under 19 players answering the call and stepping up to play.

The Pies were defeated 16.17-113 to 5.9-39.

Labrador were cleaner in the wet conditions as the pies struggled to adapt to wet weather football, persisting with short kicks which resulted in costly turnovers.  Labrador  dominated the first half to lead comfortably at half time. The Pies lifted in the second half to match their opponents at the contest and on the scoreboard.

Coach Craig Allen was pleased with the effort and commitment of his players and says they had a number of chances early to put scores on the board but inaccuracy cost them. Labrador were a bit more polished in the first half but the Magpies proudly fought back after half time to match the Tigers.

Rhys Bridge worked hard in defence to again put his name in front of senior selectors. Charlie Pershouse also worked hard at CHF, continually making a contest and took a big pack mark which excited the crowd and on a couple of occasions soared for a speccy but did not hold them but the crowd loved it anyway.

Under 19s players Tom Roderick at half forward and Damon Allen at half back were impressive in their Reserve grade debuts,  Gabe McKinnon was strong in defence and Chris Devlin used his strength to win plenty of midfield football.  Blake McClennan on ball continued his fine form of the past 6 weeks and must be in the reckoning for a Senior appearance should the opportunity arise.

The Pies are still a mathematical chance of September action and with the return of up to 7 players from injury after the bye will be keen to step up to the challenge and secure a September birth.

Labrador Tigers 6.2 - 38 | 10.7 - 67 | 13.11 - 89 | 16.17 - 113

defeated

Western Magpies 0.4 - 4 | 1.5 - 11 | 2.6 - 18 | 5.9 - 39

Best: Bridge, Pershouse, McClennan, Devlin, Roderick, Allen

Goals: Billing 2, Roderick, W.Johnson, Pershouse

METIS WEALTH MATCH REVIEW - PIES FALL SHORT IN WET WEATHER CLASSIC

A poor first half coast the Western Magpies a win against defending premiers Labrador at Chelmer on Saturday. A goalless first half and trailing by 46 points early in the third quarter the Pies then launched a third quarter comeback but were pipped at the post to go down by 3 points, 9.8-62 to 8.11-59 after dominating the final quarter but kicking 2.5 to 0.1

The match was a game of two halves as Labrador dominated the first half and the Magpies the second half in a hard slog played in wet and slippery conditions. The Pies first half was ordinary as they made fundamental errors in the wet conditions, trying to play dry weather football and paid the price with several costly turnovers.

The Pies lost key forward Brent Staker with an ankle injury in the second quarter and while the Pies were held goalless in the first half, they had several opportunities they couldn't capitalise on.

The Tigers led by 40 points at half time and then booted the first goal of the third quarter to hold what appeared to be an unassailable 46 point lead in wet conditions. With Alex Dickfos out with injury the Pies were missing their two key forwards so Brady Allen was swung into CHF and swingman Luke Scott also moved forward by coach Nathan Clark. 

Allen was able to boot 3 goals in the third quarter, two of which were his trademark 50 metre bombs, all the more impressive this time due to the wet and heavy ball. The spark for the Pies comeback also came from the midfield where Callum Carseldine, Lachlan Woods and Gareth Crawford wrested control in the tough conditions. Earlier Labrador had been on top in the middle but the pendulum swung the Pies way with sheer guts and determination not to go down without a fight.  Six third quarter goals while keeping Labrador to 2 goals had the Pies back in the hunt, down by 19 points at the last change and with plenty of momentum.

The last quarter became a slogfest with the ball in the Pies forward line for long periods with several repeat entries, while Labrador managed just 3 inside 50's for the quarter.  Two goals with 15 minutes to go had the Pies down by 3 points and looking the likely victors but they just could not get the final goal as Labrador were impressive with their last line defense to thwart the Magpie onslaught. The match had a final twist as Lachlan Woods had a shot from 55 metres after the siren but his kick fell short—it would have been a monumental kick in the dry let alone in the wet.

Allen finished with 4 goals to highlight his versatility and Tim McEvoy gave sterling service in defence and was also pushed forward for several stints and Richard Wenham also won plenty of the ball in the tight and contested conditions.

The senior coach had this to say after the tough loss

“We made a couple of silly errors early and it cost us; switching play in the wet and stuff like that.

“They certainly deserved to win, but I was proud of the way we fought back.

“Hard to score on wet days, and it was eight goals to nil at one stage, so it’s a credit to the group to get back in to it.

“It was an opportunity to get a two game buffer on Labrador but now we are in the fight, but as I said they deserved to win yesterday, no doubt about it

The QAFL ladder at the top is tight, congested and volatile—the Pies loss was costly as they drop from second to fifth place on percentage. The final make up of the five is far from settled and there are a number of big clashes in the final rounds involving all finals contenders that will make it an absorbing final four rounds.

The flag race is wide open and the Pies face a danger game at Broadbeach in a fortnight after they enjoy a bye this weekend.

Labrador Tigers 4.2 - 26 | 7.4 - 46 | 9.7 - 61 | 9.8 - 62

defeated

Western Magpies 0.2 - 2 | 0.6 - 6 | 6.6 - 42 | 8.11 - 59

Best: Carseldine, McEvoy, Crawford, Woods, Wenham, Allen

Goals: Allen 4, Scott 2, Woods, Stallard

Sci Fleet - Colts Review

COLTS CRUISE TO BIG WIN

On Saturday morning at home the Colts took on a depleted Redcliffe and ran out 153 point winners.
 

Agreeing to play 16 a side due to a lack of personnel, it was a new challenge and possibly a danger game as the Tigers had been used to playing like this for most of the year. It must be acknowledged that their players fronted up to give our lads a game , played it in the right spirit, and despite the scoreline, they never resorted to dirty tactics or chose the easy option. It takes character to front up and keep composure when they knew they were up against it. So credit must go to Redcliffe.
 

As for our team, it was a test of the renewed commitment to the team first mantra, and the coaching staff were very pleased with the acceptance of having to rotate through the bench regularly. With 6 on the bench it kept the interchange steward Vanessa Renner and Warren , our assistant coach and rotations overseer ,quite busy.
 

It's hard to really pinpoint highlights , although Jeremy DeRooy's 4 first quarter goals were exciting as was the continued development of Dom Morrison as an attacking half back. Liam Reynolds was back to his best and has really benefitted from his run in the Reserves last week. Rory Johnson continued his late season burst of form with a classy display in the midfield and Chae Lawson, Ash Gore and Phil Stumer had a ball as small forwards . Pat Renner is finding form and the new ruck trio of Kurt Vine, Damon Allen & Connor Green shows promise.
 

Down back, Cam Smith & Tommy Luke were solid and just too good for their opponents but it was a strong showing from Mark Adamson that caught the eye. He was good one-on-one , and also showed ability to be a link up player as well, finding space and giving the option for the switch play on many occasions.
 

When you are totally in control as the Colts were , it was a good opportunity to throw the side around a bit and found that Ryan Vagne has an ability to kick goals , Josh Senescall has potential as an attacking half back, Jaidon Johnstone- Bates can give a lead-u-forward option & that Jeremy DeRooy is handy up forward.
 

Now it's time to re-focus and keep the improvement in attitude and team first acts going so the young Magpies can bridge the gap to the top three teams. Another great week on the track and willingness to learn will see them primed for another top performance this coming Saturday Night against Coorparoo.

Score :
Magpies : 25.19 -169
Tigers   :    2.4 - 16
Goals : J. DeRooy 6, C. Grant 3, C. Lawson 3 , R. Vagne 3, P.Renner 2, M.Adamson 1, C. Green 1, J.Gainford 1, C. Smith 1, A. Gore 1, P.Stumer 1, L. Reynolds 1, M. Mazerolle 1

Best: L. Reynolds, D. Morrison, R. Vagne, M. Adamson, R. Johnson, T. Luke

CK Group - Colts Preview

Colts Keen to consolidate Top 4

The young Magpies take on Redcliffe in the early game this Saturday at the Nest.

After getting back on track last week, and with possibly the best week of training this year, the renewed enthusiasm of the Colts has the group looking forward to a strong showing this week. With only 3 games to go until the finals, these games are so important in the push to close the gap between them and the top 3.

This week the squad welcomes back its Skipper Dom Misso, Vice Captain Liam Reynolds, Slick half forward Phil Stumer, the improving Tommy Luke and utility Ryan Vagne, who both had a successful few weeks up in the Reserves.  Out of the side are Jake Farrell, back to the reserves, Jimmy Hardess after his cameo last week, and the unlucky Jack Simonson, who showed some real toughness last week when playing half a game with a broken wrist.. Both of the u17’s who had a taste of the colts footy, Jordon Bonney and Tristan Dowdy, return to the u17’s program to help them in their push for finals footy. The colts thank these lads for the effort they put in for us. As we already knew, they will be players to watch in the coming years.

The Magpies are primed for a good showing, and while it may be played in some boggy conditions, no excuse will be offered or accepted for anything other than a total and honest effort.

Squad :

Smith, Adamson, Luke, Senescall ,Vagne, Morrison, Gainford, Misso, Grant, Gore, Renner, Stumer, Lawson, DeRooy, Allen, Vine, Reynolds, Johnson, Johnstone-Bates, Burgess, Roderick, Green,Mazerolle.

Game starts 9.30 Saturday at Chelmer.

CFMG Capital - Reserves Preview

RESERVES UP FOR THE CHALLENGE

The Western Magpies Reserves will be up for the challenge when they host the second placed Labrador at Chelmer on Saturday.

The Pies will be boosted by the return from injury of Sean McEvoy and Ricky Dudley and with Nick Barling recovering from a knock early in the match last week.

The Magpies have hit form recently with a more regular core playing group, but the 2nd placed Tigers will be a formidable challenge as the Pies make their late surge at finals.

A win in this match will boost the Pies slim finals chances but a loss will also not spell the end of the Pies finals assault.

PLACE PREVIEW - PIES FACE NEXT BIG CHALLENGE

The Western Magpies will meet last season's Premiers Labrador in the QAFL Match of the Round at Chelmer on Saturday.

The Pies have had one hick-up in the past 6 matches and other than that have taken all before them in the middle part of the season.

Labrador are also on a surge after a slow start to the season and are growing in confidence each match as they get key troops back into their lineup

The Pies match committee had a pleasant selection dilemma on Thursday night with the availability of Tim McEvoy and Lachlan Woods after recovering from injury and with almost a full list to choose from, it was going to be tough.  However, unfortunately both Alex Dickfos and Brenton Saunders succumbed to injury and it was 2 in and 2 out.

The Pies were a little flat last week and will need to be at their best from the first bounce in what will be a classic match pitting thr two form sides of the competition against each other on what looks like could be a very wet Saturday afternoon classic.

Coopers Club News - 2006 Premiership Reunion

The reunion of the Western Magpies 2006 Seniors and Reserves premierships won over Noosa was held last Saturday night with approximately 30 players in attendance.

MC Andrew McDonald interviewed Seniors coach Paul Grentell who commented on the strength of the group as players but also as a team where all players did that little bit extra for each other.

He mentioned the unlucky Todd Dunn who strained a hamstring on the eve of the Grand Final--Dunny was too keen to take on his old club. This allowed Will Fozard to come into the side from the Reserves and he was one of the better players in the victory.

Paul mentioned a number of players who played in the Reserves such as Scott Matthews, Phil Wills (now with NT Thunder) and Jye Spencer who would have been senior players in any other season to highlight the depth at the club at the time.

Grentell said the team was so disappointed after a straight sets exit from the 2005 finals that after the Preliminary Final loss they vowed never to experience that gut wrenching feeling again.

David Hamill, who was absent as he was attending Mackay City AFC 40thAnniversary where he was a premiership player, had one of his best matches for the Pies and Reid Dobson with three long goals and plenty of possessions vied for BOG honours. Grentell lauded captain Chris Mihalopoulos who sacrificed his game to tag Noosa's key playmaker and his winning of that battle went a long way toward the victory

McDonald also interviewed Mihalopoulos who as usual led from the front in the 2006 flag but also as organiser of the reunion.

Best on Ground players Reid Dobson (Seniors) and Matt Thompson (Reserves) were also interviewed and gave their views of the respective matches. Thompson mentioned several teammates who played well in captain Brad Wright, backman Leigh Rudd and centreman Luke Knight.

President of the club in 2006 Matt Vowles also gave an insight into the work behind the scenes to get the club to where it was able to win two flags in one season.

A successful night to celebrate two wonderful Premierships.

METIS WEALTH MATCH REVIEW - PIES EDGE TO 2ND ON LADDER IN SCRAPPY WIN

To paraphrase Steve Waugh, "an ugly win is better than a good loss".

The Western Magpies were made to work hard by an exuberant Sandgate who had come to play in their clash at Chelmer on Saturday.

The Pies extra class won the day as they had a hard fought 28 point victory, winning 14.13-97 to 11.3-69.

The home tweak were out of the blocks early to post the first three goals of the match but the Hawks steadied with 3 of their own to narrow the gap. In the second quarter the Pies struggled to get the ball through the Sandgate flood as the Hawks used a loose man in defence. In fact the Pies were held goalless for the quarter as Sandgate went into the long break with 9 point lead.

The Pies were making uncharacteristic errors as they tried to maintain possession to break through the visitors defensive wall.

Normal transmission was restored in the third quarter as the Pies booted five goals while keeping Sandgate scoreless in perfect football conditions. The Pies had a scare early in the final quarter -  after kicking the first goal of the quarter to go what seemed like a comfortable 29 point lead, Sandgate played some scintillating football to boot three quick goals to trail by 11 points before the Pies steadied and then took control again to run out comfortable, if not convincing, 28 point victors. 

Ben Jaenke-Cain was back to his best with a non-stop display all over the ground and had good support from Brodie Easton and Matt Davis on the wings. All three won plenty of possessions in midfield and pushing back to help out the defence. Easton keeps getting better with each game and Davis is recapturing his brilliant form from 2015. 

David Lewis also played well in several positions forward and back and has also been a consistent player and ever reliable Luke Scott marshalled the defence as usual. 

Luke Mitchell continues his fine season and must be in the reckoning in best and fairest voting as he has not had a bad game and keeps on mopping up and being creative out of defence.  

Up forward Brent Staker often competed with 2 or 3 defenders but managed 3 goals and Sam Copland booted 3 important goals as well, 2 in the last quarter when Sandgate were threatening which gave the Pies breathing space.  

Alex Dickfos kicked 2 goals but missed another 5 gettable goals and when he clicks he will boot the Pies to an important win in the near future. 

Senior Coach Nathan Clarke had this to say:

“It was a really good win for us, we were pleased with it.

“I don’t think we played our best, but that is a credit to Sandgate, I’m surprised they haven’t won more games, our boys will definitely take a lot out of it.
“We nearly doubled their scoring shots, but it was just one of those games.

“We moved the ball a bit better in that third quarter. In the second quarter we got a bit spooked when they had a few numbers in front of the footy, which we rectified.”

The win coupled with Morningside's loss to Labrador moves the Pies to second on the ladder and seriously eyeing off top spot after Palm Beach-Currumbin were defeated by Surfers Paradise and are now only 4 points clear of the Pies.

Top spot will be in reach if the Pies can overcome a resurgent Labrador in what will an absolute cracker of a game at Chelmer next Saturday between arguably the two form sides of the competition with the Pies in a 5 win streak and the Tigers enjoying a 4 match winning streak.

Western Magpies 5.2 - 32 | 5.5 - 35 | 10.7 - 67 | 14.13 - 97

defeated

Sandgate Hawks 3.2 - 20 | 7.2 - 44 | 7.2 - 44 | 11.3 - 69

Best: Jeanke-Cain, Lewis, L.Mitchell, Easton, Scott, Davis

Goals: Staker, Copland 3, Dickfos, Jeanke-Cain 2, Saunders, Pope, Lewis, Allen 1

24 Fit - Ressies Review

The Western Magpies Reserves posted their biggest win for several years when they defeated a gallant Sandgate by 118 points, winning 29.12-186 to 10.8-68.

The Pies have been decimated with injury over the past few weeks and this has impacted heavily on the Reserves. The selectors included several Under 19s in Liam Reynolds and Ryan Vagne and they did not let the team down and Woodsmen in Andrew Thomson and Kiran Verma saddled up after playing on Friday night to help the club out.  All enjoyed the victory. 

In addition to the inclusions, regular 17 and 18 year olds in Charlie Pershouse, Jake Farrell, Lachie Dennis and Matt Mazerolle all contributed to the win, with Farrell booting 4 goals and Dennis and Reynolds 2 each.

The Pies were rocked early with injury to the experienced Nick Barling at CHB and winger Hunter Heath, both off early in the second quarter. Barling is expected to recover for next week but Heath will miss several weeks. 

However this did not slow the Pies down as the experienced forward duo of Matt Hockley and Todd Billing enjoyed the glut of supply given to them by the midfield duo of Blake McClennan and Chris Devlin. Young ruckmen in Geoff Gibb and Trent Walker are both improving with each match as was their aim when they moved from the Darling Downs to the Pies to further their football education.

Hockley booted 7 goals and he has to be one of the best kicks for goal in the QAFL with a beautiful action and Billing continues to enjoy life as a forward.

McClennan has put together 4 good matches in a row to be in the selectors eyes for a possible call-up to the Seniors and Chris Devlin just keeps getting to the contest all match,, winning plenty of ball in tight and directing traffic.

The Pies will hopefully have several players return to the side for a big clash with the second placed Labrador and a win in this match will put them right back in the hunt for fifth position on the ladder. A loss is not season ending and with coach Craig Allen having his side playing a positive brand of football and enjoying the game they will be a chance of an upset. 

Western Magpies 6.3 - 39 | 12.7 - 79 | 22.9 - 141 | 29.12 - 186

defeated

Sandgate Hawks 4.1 - 25 | 5.5 - 35 | 6.7 - 43 | 10.8 - 68

Best: McClennan, Gibb, Hockley, Billing, Devlin, Walker

Goals: Hockley 7, Billing, Farrell 4, Taylor 3, Dennis, Reynolds 2, Walker, Barling, Mazerolle, Burton, Vagne, Devlin, Pershouse 1

CK Group - Colts Review

IMPROVED EFFORT SEES COLTS WIN WELL

This week the young Magpies had the opportunity in the twilight match against Sandgate to make it 3 from 3 for the club in front of the 2006 premiership reunion.

After a huge win by the Reserves and a gutsy victory by the Seniors it was pleasing to see the Colts produce in front of a nice home crowd.

Fielding a very different side that was without virtually all its senior core, all three first choice ruckman , and a bit of silk at both ends of the ground, it was true test of the squad’s depth of talent. Calling upon two under 17's in Jordon Bonney and Tristan Dowdy (who unfortunately tweaked a groin in the warm up) and a surprise homecoming from long time Magpie junior Jimmy Hardess , recently stationed with the Air Force out at Amberley, it was going to take a full 22 man effort to earn the win.

It was extremely pleasing to see Rory Johnson take the captaincy and produce his best game of the year. The back to back B&F winner has been solid without standing out this year, but with the side needing every player to stand up, he was outstanding for the full four quarters. He wasn't alone though, with Jimmy Gainford, Kurt Vine in the ruck, Damon Allen, Tom Roderick and Ash Gore all working  together to win the midfield battle. They were well supported by Jake Farrell, Matt Mazerolle (both backing up from Reserves duty) Cal Grant and Conner Green, playing a new role as a backup ruckman. Dom Morrison was superb across half back and is developing very quickly in his new role . Has more than a little bit of Will Fletcher about his play and is one to watch in the future.

Backline leader Cam Smith,  Jordon Bonney, Josh Senescall , Jimmy Hardess, & Mark Adamsonwere very solid and show potential to be a quality group.

A make-shift forward set up worked extremely well considering they have never played together as a unit. Big Jeremy DeRooy had a day out and his 6 goals could have been 10 if he had the radar on, Chae Lawson continued his excellent season, and Johnston-Bates continued his improvement . With Pat Renner playing deep to help provide another option, the midfield gave these players nice service. It was good to see Jack Simonson get some touches his second game for the squad and finally be able to sing the song.

On face value it was just a regulation win, but after an ordinary month of football, an absentee list that stretches to 9 players and the need to finish the day off for the club in style, this win was full of merit.

The Colts would like to also thank the increased help from the senior footy department and also the off field support given to the squad from our legend of a manager Gregg Misso and Rob Lawson, Richard Smith and Vanessa Renner. Great to see the players who were not playing also helping out with off field job, running the water etc... It's meant the squad can now focus on the upcoming finals series and doing our club proud.

Western Magpies 12.9 - 81 def Sandgate  5. 3 – 33

Best : Johnson, DeRooy, Morrison, Vine ,Gainford, Johnston-Bates

Goals : DeRooy 6, Renner 2, Johnston-Bates, Johnson, Farrell , Roderick