24 Fit - Colts Review

Magpie Colts get reality check

The Magpie Colts had one of those days where you wonder who kicked the black cat or broke the mirror, as everything that could go wrong, did go wrong .

Up against the clear favourites for the colts title, the Magpie youngsters were super competitive up until the 15 minute mark of the second qtr, (colts finals 17 mins Qtrs) when just 2 points separated the sides. From that moment onwards, it was total and complete domination by the Vultures and they stormed home to record a massive 120 point win.

The first half saw the young Magpies up and about, being strong over the football, great in the contested situations and while overuse of the ball and some skill errors were happening, the commitment to defend and pressure the Vultures meant there was a fair share of turnovers and forward entries. In reality the Magpies should have been in front by the first break, but some missed shots and a lapse or two on concentration let the Vultures off the hook .

The second quarter was much the same, although there were signs of what was to come as our runners started to visit the bench more often than normal and our usual flexibility was effected by having only 3 players we could use on the bench. The effect of relying on our usual midfield workhorses Misso, Reynolds, Johnson and Gainford (who showed massive courage just to be out there) was starting to show against a side that has about 14 guys they run through the middle. After letting in the last 3 goals of the half in quick succession, the Magpies viewed half time as chance to re-set and re-inforce the positives, they first half was tight, and it was the last 3 minutes that Mt Gravatt had kicked away slightly.

What ensued for the next half a game was a lesson in preparation, support and being ruthless when you see the opponent is shaky. Mt Gravatt came out and just attacked very contest with huge intent, were brave with their ball use, backed their running ability and just blew the Magpies off the park with a performance that you have to respect and admire, no matter how much it hurt to be on the end of.

With our midfield and outside runners all feeling the pinch , and cramping up everywhere. The Vultures showed no mercy as they swept the ball forward with ease and making the most of each forward entry and kicking straight, which piled on the scoreboard pressure. Credit must go to Mark Adamson at fullback for keeping their full forward to 2 goals and having him moved to a wing. Dom Morrison did all he could and was excellent both in the air and at the stoppages across half back, and there were no harder workers than the mids mentioned above. The bench looked like a casualty ward at times and with Cam Smith, Jimmy Gainford and Damon Allen already ruled out for next week, the squad will need some reinforcements to field a side against Aspley in this coming Saturday's semi final.

It's not the end of the road for the Magpie Colts, with a good season giving them the double chance - and as many heard at the 60th Anniversary Function - many famous Magpie Premierships have come after big defeats in early finals only to return the favour later on in the big dance.

Goals : DeRooy 3 , Gore 1

Best : Johnson, Morrison, Misso, Adamson, Reynolds, DeRooy.

Coopers Community Footy Update

WOODIES FACE LONG TIME RIVALS IN SUDDEN DEATH FINAL

Western Magpies affiliate, the Woodsmen face a 2nd week of elimination finals when they take on the Jimboomba Redbacks in a Semi Final at Collingwood Park at 730pm tonight.

The Woodsmen and Jimboomba have a long history, after facing off in consecutive Grand Finals in 2009 and 2010 after the Woodsmen were established in 2009 and many classic battles since.

The Woodsmen come off a hard fought elimination final win vs Sandgate last week, when they stormed home after a slow start to win by 11 points after trailing at every break.  However, once the Woodsmen got in front with 10 minutes to play, it was only going one way as the Sandgate players dropped their heads and accepted their fate.

In contrast, Jimboomba enjoyed 19 goal win against surprise finalist, Collingwood Park and should be relatively fresh approaching the game against a battle hardened Woodies outfit.

Out of the Woodsmen side go Matt Garland and David Fraser (both unavailable), Dylan Mudge (omitted) and reliable defender Chris La Burniy (broken hand).  However, the Woodies are able to welcome back gun full-back Paul Eaton from 6 weeks out, reliable defender Laurie Bere, the vastly improved tackling machine Dave Schultz and Blake Barkley back after a week due to an injury suffered in Round 16.

The Woodsmen would welcome as much support as possible from the Magpie faithful tonight in what promises to be an exciting game.

Woodsmen vs Jimboomba Friday Aug 12 730pm at Redbank Plains Recreational Reserve (Moreton Avenue, Redbank)

PLACE PREVIEW - CLARKE SWINGS CHANGES AS PIES SEEK DOUBLE CHANCE

Western Magpies coach Nathan Clarke has swung the changes as the Pies face the first of two challenging matches when they travel to Hawthorne to take on Morningside on Saturday.

The Pies are currently third on the ladder and Morningside are sixth, an unfamiliar position for the Panthers.

The home side will be playing for a finals berth while the Pies are eyeing off a top three finish and the double chance. A win sets up the Magpies tilt at a flag but a loss sees them back in the mix just to make the finals.

Clarke and the Pies selectors have made six changes to the side that defeated UQ. Ruckman Dom Beer and utility Brady Allen have been relegated to the Reserves along with defenders Rhys Bridge and late inclusion vs UQ - Luke De Nys.   Debutant youngster Billy Johnson also goes back to Reserves after his first taste of Senior footy and the experienced Tim McEvoy is rested after not shaking of a bruised lower back suffered last week.

Jadan Morton returns to the ruck to join Nick Barling, Chris Hunt is back after missing last week to visit his ill father, Matt Davis comes in after missing with illness last week,  Brenton Saunders returns from Redlands, Will Fletcher rejoins after several weeks with the Brisbane Lions,  and Jordan Bourke, a Sherwood junior and ex-Brisbane Lion currently with Aspley makes his Pies senior debut after several weeks out with injury.

The dropping of Beer and Allen may come as a surprise but Beer's around ground presence and mobility has been a concern and Allen has been up and down in recent weeks and needs to recharge the batteries in Reserves. 

The Magpies heirarchy will be aware they were well beaten in their previous clash with the Panthers but a lot has changed since then and the Magpies midfield has lifted and the backline will be a lot tougher than the first encounter. Coach Nathan Clarke was only just at the helm then but he has since stamped his mark on the side with the team playing with a confidence and enjoyment that translates into a winning formula.

Barling and Morton have a big job to give the likes of Gareth Crawford, Matt Sondergeld, Callum Carseldine and Drew Mitchell a chance to get their hands on the ball to drive the Pies forward.

Mitchell has also been dangerous across half forward, averaging two goals a game in recent matches.

Val Pope was back to his brilliant best with 7 goals last week and full forward Alex Dickfos has started to convert opportunities into goals, bagging 6 last week. Sam Copland also slotted into the forward mix with 4 goals last week and the Pies also have the option of the classy Luke Scott slipping forward as needed. Brenton Saunders is also a smart forward who gives another scoring option.

Up and coming youngster Charlie Pershouse has been given the tough job of keeping Morningside full forward Kent Abey in check--Abey did the damage in the first round loss to the Panthers, but the midfield will need to slow the Panthers entries to prevent a repeat. Pershouse has form at fullback as he did a fine job restricting the Aspley full forward when he played for the Lions recently in a NEAFL match. Chris Hunt will be better for a week off and will offer assistance and Luke Scott if back will also lend a hand. David Lewis and Tyler Jones have been in fine form across half back and will need to be to repel what is sure to be a desperate Morningside team.

The Magpies finals campaign starts 2 weeks early and a win on Saturday will secure a finals berth -this should be enough motivation for the Magpies to continue their recent good form and avenge their loss at home earlier in the year.

Western Magpies vs Morningside Panthers, Sat Aug 13 2pm @ Jack Esplen Oval, Hawthorne

B: Chris Hunt - Charlie Pershouse - Aaron Maricic

HB: Will Fletcher - David Lewis - Tyler Jones

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

HF: Drew Mitchell - Sam Copland - Lachlan Woods (C)

F: Brenton Saunders - Alex Dickfos - Val Pope

Foll: Nick Barling - Ben Jeanke-Cain - Matt Sondergeld

INT: Jadan Morton - Gareth Crawford - Jordan Bourke - Brodie Easton

CK Group - Ressies Preview

BIG INCLUSIONS AS RESERVES IN ANOTHER DO OR DIE MATCH

The Western Magpies Reserves face another do-or-die match when they meet ladder leader Morningside at Hawthorne on Saturday. The Reserves have several big inclusions with regular senior players in ruckman Dom Beer and utility Brady Allen coming into the side as well as Luke De Nys and Rhys Bridge also dropping back to bolster the Pies defence. Billy Johnson comes in after tasting senior football last week and Jake Farrell returns from the Colts.

Out are ruckman Jadan Morton recalled to the Seniors, midfielder Blake McClennan is unavailable, Jamie Page broke his finger at training and Brent Walker and Sam Donovan go to the emergency bench with Tom Roderick going back to the Colts.

Beer and Allen will be keen to play well to force their way back into senior selection calculations and both will have big roles to play as the Pies try to keep their season alive.

This is arguably the strongest Reserves side for the year and coach Craig Allen will relish the prospect of upsetting the ladder leaders.  

With new player Joe Murphy a quality player joining the midfield and Matt Green also returning last week the Pies have a strong launching pad to gain early football and therefore dominance in the match.

The half back line of Gabe McKinnon, Rhys Bridge and Sean McEvoy is very strong and with Sean Mewing and Luke deNys in the last line of defence the Pies are well endowed to restrict Morningside scoring.

Up forward the forward line looks potent with Liam Dwyer and Todd Billing the spearheads and Matt Hockley and Jake Heard dangerous across half forward. 

With a strong team and a finals spot on the line the Magpies will be confident of defeating the ladder leaders and keeping their finals dream alive for at least another week.

Western Magpies Reserves v Morningside at Morningside on Saturday, August 13th at 11.30 am

B: S Mewing L De Nys H Heath

HB: G McKinnonR BridgeS McEvoy

C:  M Green B AllenM Mazarolle

HF:  J HeardL Dwyer (R) J Farrell

F:   M Hockley T BillingJ Burton

Rucks:  D Beer J MurphyC Devlin

I/C : S Taylor  S Hubbert, B Johnson, G Gibb

Sci Fleet Taringa - Colts Preview

YOUNG MAGPIES FACE ULTIMATE TEST

Finals time has arrived for the Magpie Colts as they face the unbeaten ladder leaders Mt Gravatt on their home deck.

With the 19 team single division regular season, it worked out the both sides only played each other once this year and it was the first round 90 point loss to Mt Gravatt that shocked the colts into reality and provided the side with a clear message about what it would take to be competitive this season. The fact that team responded to the challenge to the extent they finished the regular season in the top 4 was a great reward for the effort the lads have put in.

As the saying goes though, that all means nothing from here on in, it's finals time and the Magpie Colts can be confident that they are a muchbetter prepared unit this time around.

The side will be looking for big games from Skipper Dom Misso, who has had a great year so far, and his midfield buddies Reynolds, Johnson,  and big Aaron Highlands in the ruck. Adamson has been good the last month at Fullback and his ability to curb the effect of the Mt Gravatt tall forwards will be crucial. In Dom Morrison , Jimmy Gainford, Phil Stumer and Cal Grant the side has some slick movers who will need to match the fleet of runners the Vultures have.

The forward line has been an area of strength all year, but they will need to be at their best against by far the best performed defence in the Comp.  DeRooy, Lawson , Renner, Gore and Johnston-Bates have been combining well lately and with the addition of Vagne as a mobile target, we have multiple avenues to goal.  Forward50 turnovers , tackling pressure and working hard to force repeat shots on goal are what these guys pride themselves on. Applying that pressure and stopping Mt Gravatts run will go along way towards the Magpies causing a huge upset.

The squad is :

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

 Game starts at 11.15 and any support the Colts could get would be very much appreciated

Winner goes straight into a Prelim final

METIS WEALTH MATCH REVIEW - PIES TUNE UP FOR BIG FEW WEEKS

The Western Magpies have tuned up for a big couple of weeks which can define their season with a comfortable 88 point victory over UQ at St Lucia on Saturday.

With matches to come against fellow finals contenders Morningside and Surfers Paradise, the Pies can finish as high as first or miss out on the finals altogether. 

The Pies did what they had to do against the struggling Red Lions as they now go into a mini-finals series in the next two matches.

Led by the brilliance of Val Pope and the hard yakka of Ben Jaenke-Cain, Lachlan Woods, Drew Mitchell and Matt Sondergeld, the Pies got on top early and then in a second quarter shoot out booted 9 goals to the students 6 goals to lead by 39 points at half time.

The Pies were on top after half time with 9 goals to 3 to run out emphatic victors.

Pope was irrepressible with a 7 goal haul and Alex Dickfos finally delivered on the promise of a bagful in recent weeks with 6 goals.  Sam Copland complimented these two with 4 goals himself as the trio shared 17 of the Pies 22 goals between them.

Matt Sondergeld was his usual busy self around the packs and is enjoying a fine second half of the season and Jaenke-Cain and Mitchell have also been solid in recent matches. Woods also had a strong game with more four quarter consistency and better use of the football to be a good player and capped it with 2 goals.

Youngster Billy Johnson on debut was not out of place and he capped a solid game with a goal and will be a fine player for the Pies in the future to continue the family association with western suburbs football. Another youngster in Charlie Pershouse also played well, this time in defence to underline his versatility.

The Pies back half was solid with Tyler Jones, David Lewis and Luke Scott again prominent.

The Pies travel to Hawthorne next Saturday to meet Morningside in a crunch game for both sides- a Pies win will cement a top three finish while a loss will put them back in the bun fight just to make the finals. Morningside will be ready to play as a loss for the Panthers will put the them on the precipice of missing the finals. A big match in the context of the season.

With Brent Staker, Richard Wenham, Chris Hunt, Luke Mitchell, Will Fletcher and Jadan Morton all available in coming weeks and regular Senior player Sean Mewing resuming in the Reserves after a long injury lay off the Pies depth is looking strong.

Senior Coach - Nathan Clarke had this to say:

“The thing about the comp is there is no easy game, and the score didn’t do UQ justice, but it was a good day.

“They were depleted, we had a few down as well, but they tested us out in their own way.

“I’m never comfortable, so it wasn’t until very late in the game we could relax a little bit.

“The nine goal to six second quarter made me uncomfortable. It became a bit freewheeling, and that’s not what we wanted to happen, or how we wanted them to play.”

Western Magpies 4.8 - 32 | 13.10 - 88 | 18.14 - 122 | 22.18 - 150

defeated

UQ Red Lions 1.3 - 9 | 7.7 - 49 | 9.8 - 62 | 10.12 - 72

Best: Pope, Sondergeld, Jeanke-Cain, Woods, D.Mitchell, Dickfos

Goals: Pope 7, Dickfos 6, Copland 4, Woods, D.Mitchell 2, W.Johnson

24 Fit - Ressies Review

RESERVES STILL IN FINALS HUNT

The Western Magpies Reserves remain well and truly in the finals race with a big win over UQ at St. Lucia on Saturday.

The Pies eked out a 5 goal lead at half time but dominated the second half to run out 83 point victors and give their percentage a timely boost.

The Pies are now sixth on the ladder equal with Mt Gravatt and still face a big task to make the finals with matches to come against ladder leader Morningside and fourth placed Surfers Paradise.

Jadan Morton dropped back from the Senior side as he was required to work later in the afternoon and he showed why he has been a key player in the Senior side with a strong display all over the ground, capping it off with 3 goals.

New player Joe Murphy showed plenty of skill in the midfield mix and with a a strong body and penetrating left foot can be a key player in coming weeks. He would not be out of place in the Senior side but a late start to the season may count against him.

Sean Mewing was also solid across half back in his return after a long injury lay off and relished just playing football again.

Liam Dwyer at half forward was another to relish playing after a long injury lay off and Hunter Heath in defence also played a fine game after an interrupted few weeks with injury.

Chris Devlin and Blake McClennan in the midfield both continued their fine form of the second half of the season to be prolific ball winners. Todd Billing with 3 goals and Matt Hockley up forward were both strong and Stuart Hubbert used his pace to advantage to set up Pies attacking moves.

With a number of players to come back into the Senior side there will be some disappointed players dropping back to Reserves but the added depth will allow the Pies to throw out a strong challenge to Morningside on Saturday. 

Coach Craig Allen will be stressing to his charges that they have a great opportunity to extend their season into September and he will be quietly confident the Pies can inflict Morningside's second defeat on Saturday.

Western Magpies 4.0 - 24 | 8.5 - 53 | 13.8 - 86 | 19.11 - 125

defeated

UQ Red Lions 2.2 - 14 | 3.4 - 22 | 3.8 - 26 | 5.12 - 42

Best: Morton, McClennan, Murphy, Devlin, Dwyer, Heath

Goals: Billing, Morton 3, Hubbert, Dwyer 2, Muprhy, Hockley, Greem Mazerolle, Heard, Devlin, Burton, Heath, Taylor 1

CMFG Capital - Colts Review

COLTS EARN THE DOUBLE CHANCE :

In the last home and away game for the year, our young magpie colts ground out a win over a game UNI side. The win means the side has finished the regular season with 12 wins and 4 losses, equal with Southport and just missing 3rd spot on percentage.

Early on in Saturdays game it seemed the side had other things on their mind, and as is always the way, Uni , who were playing to secure a spot in the DIV 2 finals, had come to play and through hard work and having a bigger thirst for the contest, earned a 5 point lead at qtr time.

After a wakeup call and a commitment to focus on the task at hand, things swung the Magpies way. I lift in defensive intensity saw the midfield create turnovers which allowed the forward line to convert the dominance into scoreboard pressure. Big Jeremy DeRooy returned to form with a bang, with his contested marking a highlight, and the small forwards in Chae Lawson, Ash Gore, & Phil Stumer made sure any loose ball scooped up and delivered back into the forward line. The result was a 5-point deficit turned into a 4 goal lead by half time. It was a stark display of why mindset and effort are so important to this side.

The second half was much the same, and some passages of play were very smooth, but as we were trying things position wise for our finals campaign, some defensive lapses and overuse of the ball can be understood. Still the commitment to put as much pressure as possible at the contest was pleasing, but we will need to continue to work at applying full field pressure and communication as UNI did get through the press a few times and could have been much closer had they converted some golden chances. Skipper Dom Misso, and the returning Dom Morrison we very impressive along with midfield co-horts Johnson and Reynolds. Jimmy Gainford again showed his enormous courage in attacking the contest knowing a collision was certain, collected one grab, and got a kick away as he was getting smashed. The result meant he played no further part in the game, but the lift it gave the side was significant.

In the end it was a danger game, and one that early on this year they may have dropped, but this side is maturing nicely and the boys would not let this one slide. A solid 40pt win was enough to guarantee top 4 and a shot at ladder leaders and fierce rivals Mt Gravatt this Saturday.

Magpies-13.13 - 91 defeated Uni 7.9 - 51

Goals:  DeRooy 5, Stumer 3, Senescall , Lawson, Grant, Reynolds, Morrison 1

Best : Misso, Morrison, R. Johnson, Gore, DeRooy, Stumer

Coopers Club Event - 1981 Reunion

Sherwood's 1981 Senior and Reserves Premiership teams will be having a reunion on Saturday, August 20th at the Western Magpies home match against Surfers Paradise at Chelmer.

Details of the Senior side exploits can be found here

The Sherwood Reserves side went through the season losing just one game to South Brisbane and finished up minor premiers.

Unfortunately they were beaten by Aspley in the major semi-final after Aspley dropped back senior players who had qualified for both their Senior and Reserves as their Seniors side did not play the same weekend. Meeting the old foe Mount Gravatt in the preliminary final was also a challenge but after a fierce contest all day the Magpies prevailed by one point to seek revenge against Aspley in the grand final.

After Aspley had qualified in theSenior grand final also, they were not able to field the same team that beat the Magpies in the semi-final. The Magpies were out to seek revenge and that is exactly what occurred as they ran out winners by the tune of six goals.

The team consisted of both older heads, such as Mel Beswick, Terry Summers, the Walters boys, Ian Foster, Richard (big bird) Phillips and a bunch of young guns who had come through the Sherwood junior ranks.

Winning the Premiership capped off a successful season for first time Captain/Coach Paul Hope as he was was also awarded the S.Q.A.F.A. Noel Wallis Medal for Best and Fairest in the Reserves competition based on umpire voting.

PLACE PREVIEW - PIES PUSH TO STAY IN TOP 3

The Western Magpies travel across the river to meet near neighbours UQ at University on Saturday in a match the Pies need to win to consolidate a Top 3 spot on the QAFL ladder.

The Pies selectorshave again had to make several changes to their side for the match, and will need 100% commitment to ensure they come away with the 4 points.

Out are the injured pair of Mitchell Stallard and last weeks debutant Lachie Dennis, while both Chris Hunt and Luke Mitchell are unavailable. Jadan Morton goes back for a stint in the Reserves.

In comes ruckman Nick Barling and defender Rhys Bridge after good Reserves form and youngsters Sam Copland and Charlie Pershouse, both back from the Lions NEAFL team.

Also in for his first Senior match is 17 year old Billy Johnson after consistent Reserves form.

The Pies entire backline selected last week of Hunt, Mitchell and Stallard are all missing this week so Rhys Bridge comes into fullback with Tim McEvoy and Aaron Maricic slotting into the pockets. Youngster Charlie Pershouse has been selected at CHB but has some class acts next to him in Tyler Jones and David Lewis, both good players last week. Pershouse has a big future and his education will continue in this match.

Jones was excellent on his return match and the Pies can consider themselves lucky that he has not been recalled to the Redland team.

The Pies midfield keeps rolling on with Callum Carseldine, Ben Jaenke-Cain, Gareth Crawford and Drew Mitchell getting the job done like a well oiled machine and Matt Sondergeld was his usual busy self around the packs last week.

Dom Beer has found a new level in recent matches and has started to use some more variety in the ruck to keep the opposition guessing.

Swingmen Luke Scott, Matt Davis and Brady Allen give the Pies plenty of options all over the ground with Allen and Scott both getting on the scoreboard regularly.

Sam Copland comes back to bolster the forward line and with Val Pope always dangerous and Alex Dickfos getting his hands on the ball more and more the Pies have the firepower to kick a big score. Dickfos is due for a bagful if he can get the radar on.

Western Magpies vs UQ Red Lions - Sat Aug 6, Field 9 St Lucia @ 2pm

B: Tim McEvoy - Rhys Bridge - Aaron Maricic

HB:  David Lewis - Charlie Pershouse - Tyler Jones

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

HF: Drew Mitchell - Sam Copland - Lachlan Woods (C)

F: Gareth Crawford - Alex Dickfos - Val Pope

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

INT: Nick Barling - Billy Johnson - Brodie Easton - Brady Allen

Sci Fleet Toyota Taringa - Ressies Preview

The Western Magpies Reserves will be keen to continue on their winning way when they play UQ at Universoty on Saturday.

The Pies still have a mathematical probability of playing finals but need to keep on winning and winning well. While they should start favourites against a struggling Red Lions outfit the Pies will still need to be at their best to ensure they pocket the four points.

Coach Craig Allen welcomes back regular senior defender in Sean Mewing, who returns after a long period out with a neck injury, and Jadan Morton, who has been playing well in the Seniors as a 2nd Ruck/Utility.  Todd Billing also comes in after unavailability last round and he slots back to full forward to complete a pretty formidable forward line.

On the debit side Nick Barling and Rhys Bridge have been promoted the the Senior side and Joel Workman's rotten luck continues as he misses the rest of the season with a fractured scaphoid.

Morton and Billing will bolster a very strong forward line and with Jake Heard, Liam Dwyer and Matt Hockley as other options the Pies have the firepower to post a big score.

Jamie Page had his best game for the Pies last week and Luke deNys is getting back to his best after a long injury layoff to be part of a strong Pies backline.

New player Joe Murphy, a Sherwood junior many years ago, looks to be a fine player and he will go into the midfield to join the consistent Chris Devlin and Blake McClennan, both regularly amongst the best performers through the middle of the season.

The Pies should keep their finals hopes alive for another week if they can get the 4 points over UQ

Western Magpies Reserves v UQ at University on Saturday, August 6th at 11.30 am

B: S Mewing L De Nys J Page

HB: H HeathS McEvoy, S Donovan

C:  J Farrell C Devlin M Mazarolle

HF:  J HeardJ Morton L Dwyer

F:   M Hockley T Billing G McKinnon

Rucks:  G. Gibb, J MurphyB McClennan

I/C : S TaylorB. Walker S Hubbert, J Burton

CK Group - Colts Preview

COLTS NEED A WIN TO SECURE TOP 4 BERTH

After the bye last week, the Western Magpie Colts are looking to complete the H&A season with a win over UQ this Saturday morning. 

It's a simple equation for the boys, win and they earn the double chance with a Top 4 finish.  However, Uni can't be taken lightly and results show that they have performed at their best when playing the top sides this year and could be further up the ladder but for some surprising losses against lower ranked teams.

The Colts have been in some quality form, with recent convincing wins in their last three outings - while really adapting and buying into a more defensively orientated game plan.  It will be interesting to see how the work done at training over the past 2 weeks is put into action on the ground this week.

The Colts welcome back Ruckman Aaron Highlands and utility Josh Senescall from injury and now have a healthy list, which is always vital for a finals assault commencing next weekend.

The young Magpies would love your support, they play an exciting brand of footy that has produced some big wins and keeps the supporters entertained.  If you are free Saturday morning, come down and have a look at the future of your club, which is looking mighty promising.

Western Magpies vs UQ - 930am Field 9, St Lucia

Squad: D.Allen, C.Smith, M.Adamson, R.Vagne,D.Misso, D.Morrison, J.DeRooy, C.Lawson, A.Gore, K.Vine, L.Reynolds,J.Johnstone-Bates, R.Johnson,P.Stumer,J. Senescall , A.Highlands, P.Renner, C.Grant, J.Gainford, J.Farrell, M.Mazarolle, T.Luke, T.Roderick, W.Burgess. (2 to be omitted. )

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.