CK Group Player Update - Luke Scott Round 16 Syd Guildford Nominee

Veteran Magpies utility Luke Scott is the round 15 QAFL Syd Guildford nominee after an impressive performance on the wing.

Scott was a ball magnet in the Magpies’ 78-point win over UQ and was crucial in driving the pill forward to give his side the best opportunity to kick a winning score and provide a vital percentage boost.

“I’m getting my hands on the footy which is a good thing so while I did see a lot of the football it’s also all about playing my role and doing whatever it takes to make sure the team’s processes are in place,” Scott said.

Despite playing in the backline earlier in the season, Scott has been tasked to play on the wing to provide better match-ups for the team.

“It might not be a permanent role but just the last couple of weeks it’s been what’s best suited for the structure of the side,” he said.

“That’s the beauty of Nathan Clarke, he really analyses the opposition and puts us in positions where he sees an advantage for the team.”

Scott says the team’s performance on Saturday is a big confidence builder as they edge closer to finals footy.

“With the competition being so tight percentage is quite important with a lot of teams trying to finalise those last few spots so a big win like that is definitely beneficial for the team.

“But we’re just trying to make sure each player is playing their role and we’re playing to the structure and game plan to build momentum coming into finals.”

Scott is in his eighth season for the Magpies and while he might not be in the leadership group, he still provides an experienced head around the club.

“I took a step down from the leadership group at the start of the year just to focus on a bit of my own game, but it is also the right time to hand over to a lot of the younger guys.

“We’ve got a young group who are so keen to learn and to aspire to be the best they can be so I don’t have to offer too much more in that aspect.”

The loyal Pie isn’t driven by individual accolades but says there is one thing he still wants to achieve.

“I’m very much a team man.

“I’d love to try and help this team win a premiership at QAFL level.

“There’s a lot of history in the club and we’d just love to win a QAFL flag so if I can help the team get there that would be unreal.”

Now 30, Scott hasn’t made any decisions on his playing future just yet.

“I’m at that age where you sort of take it year by year,” he joked.

“I’ll see how the body pulls up for the remainder of the year, but right now it’s good and I’m ready for a big back end of the season.”

http://www.aflq.com.au/round-16-syd-guildford-nominee-luke-scott/

Sci Fleet Taringa - Ressies Preview

LAST ROLL OF THE DICE FOR PIES RESERVES

The Western MagpiesReserves have a last roll of the dice when they host third placed Surfers Paradise at Chelmer on Saturday. This will be the first of 3 big matches for the Black and Whites on a day which could define the Western Magpies season.

The Pies Reserves still have a faint chance of reaching the finals if they win and then hope Wilston Grange defeat Mt Gravatt. The beauty of this round is that Grange will also be hoping to sneak into the finals with a win and a Magpies defeat so all four teams have a huge amount to play for on Saturday and both contests will be honest affairs with nothing left in the tank.

Magpies coach Craig Allen will stress that his side must first concentrate on their own game and ensure they get the four points before worrying about what is happening at Mt Gravatt.

He welcomes back Richard Wenham and Ricky Dudley from injury, Aaron Maricic comes in from the Seniors to a wing, Blake McClennan returns after attending a wedding and Brent Walker and Sam Donovan come into the side after missing last week.

Out go Brady Allen and Sean Mewing to the Senior side, Gabe McKinnon is unavailable, Jake Heard and Stuart Hubbert are both injured and Matt Mazarolle drops back to the Colts semi final team.

Ruckman Dom Beer remains in the side and he will want a big game to prove his credentials for a Senior recall. Chris Devlin goes back to the centre and Blake McClennan will give the pies some midfield drive on his return.

Wenham and Dudley strengthen the backline and Wenham will give plenty of run and carry out of defence and he will also be keen to play well to push for a Senior recall.

The forward line went searching for their kicking boots during the week after butchering a golden opportunity last week with poor goal kicking. Jake Farrell was the best of them last week and Todd Billing has been good for the latter half of the year up forward.

It is pretty 'Black & White' for the Pies this week --win and you never know what may happen, lose and its curtains. A big effort from the Pies may just see them sneak into the five at the right time of the year--they have not been in the five since round 2.

Western Magpies Reserves v Surfers Paradise at Chelmer on Saturday, August 20th at 11.30 am

B: R Dudley L De Nys H Heath

HB: R Wenham R Bridge S McEvoy

C:  A Maricic C Devlin M Green

HF:  B Johnson L Dwyer (R) J Farrell

F:   M Hockley T Billing J Burton

Rucks:  D Beer J Murphy B McClennan

I/C : S TaylorHubbert, B Walker, G Gibb

PLACE PREVIEW - PIES IN HIGH STAKES FINAL ROUND CLASH

The stakes could not be higher for the Western Magpies as they face finals football a week early as they host Surfers Paradise at Chelmer on Saturday.

The rewards for victory are high for both sides as the loser will likely miss the finals unless there are upsets in other games. A win and maintenance of percentage can see the Pies hold off Morningside, which should beat Sandgate, to retain 3rd place on the ladder and the double chance. A narrow victory to the Pies and Morningside will still need to win by over 100 points to pass the Pies on percentage-- the QAFL app will get a workout on Saturday as scores are checked regularly!! And don't even think about a draw!!

The Pies have to win--it is as simple as that. The rest will have to look after itself.

Coach Nathan Clarke will be bouyed by the return of CHF Brent Staker and other inclusions are Tim McEvoy, Brady Allen and Sean Mewing, all likely to bolster the backline for the Pies.  Staker is again a huge in for the Pies as he takes the best defender but also straightens the Pies attack. McEvoy returns after missing last week and the Pies will no doubt be keen to win for TMac's 200th Senior game. Allen comes back after a week to re-charge in the Reserves and Mewing returns after 2 Reserves matches following long term injury, a great result for a season of hard work.

Out of the side are the injured Chris Hunt (hamstring) and Jordan Bourke (back) while Matt Sondergeld has a family wedding and omitted is Aaron Maricic after struggling for form in recent matches.

Tim McEvoy comes back in for his 200th Senior game and he and Sean Mewing are the experienced duo in an otherwise young backline. Tyler Jones was down last week like many of his teammates but has been brilliant in recent matches with run and carry off half back. Charlie Pershouse is unlucky not to be named as this week's QAFL Rising Star after a great game last week and he holds down fullback but may need some assistance against a strong opponent.

Brady Allen's wake-up call will hopefully having him back firing and he does provide the pies with an x-factor--although selected on a back flank he can be moved forward if needed.

Round 16 Syd Guilford Award nominee in Luke Scott had a rare day off last week and expect him to rebound and he starts up forward this week.

Jadan Morton has been a consistent performer on ball and will need to continue that form in ruck and Nick Barling gets better each week since his return from injury.

The Pies midfield lowered their colours last week and will be keen to bounce back. Gareth Crawford had a rare off day and with Cal Carseldine, Ben Jaenke-Cain and Drew Mitchell will, need to lift to ensure adequate supply to the Pies forwards.

Staker at CHF is a big bonus for the Pies and with Scott also up forward and Alex Dickfos off the bench the Pies have a three marking options. Sam Copland on the lead and Brenton Saunders also an option the Pies will hope to get better outcomes for effort after last week's poor showing.

It is all on the line for both teams so expect a fierce contest with the Pies wanting to put last week's debacle behind them and secure a finals berth and with a win hold onto third place on the ladder.

A third place finish opens up premiership possibilities for the Pies but a loss will take about 6 months to get over. It shouldbe nothing left in the tank for the Pies on Saturday!!

A big crowd is expected for a huge day of football for the Magpies and with the 1981 Sherwood Senior and Reserves premiership teams celebrating a reunion the Pies will be keen for a win to honour club legend Tim McEvoy's 200th match  and ensure the reunion celebrations continue well after the final siren.

Western Magpies vs Surfers Paradise at the Nest, Saturday August 20 at 2pm

B: Tim McEvoy - Charlie Pershouse - Will Fletcher

HB: Brady Allen - David Lewis - Tyler Jones

C: Matt Davis - Cal Carseldine (C) - Val Pope

HF: Drew Mitchell - Brent Staker - Sam Copland

F: Brenton Saunders - Luke Scott - Gareth Crawford

Foll: Jadan Morton - Lachlan Woods (C) - Ben Jeanke-Cain

INT: Alex Dickfos - Nick Barling - Sean Mewing - Brodie Easton

EMG: Dom Beer - Richard Wenham - Liam Dwyer - Jordan Bourke

CFMG Capital - Colts Preview

COLTS FAVOURED IN TWILIGHT FIRST SEMI FINAL

This weekend sees the WesternMagpies Colts take on Aspley in the First Semi Final at Chelmer in a twilight match after the Senior game. The match is scheduled for a 4.45 pm start.

For the winner, it is onto next weeks Preliminary final against Maroochydore , for the loser, it's all over for 2016.

Despite the scoreline, there are many positives to come from last weeks game, particularly early, when the Pies were involved in what most observers say was the most competitive half of Colts footy seen this year. It's that level of football they will need to produce again, just for a longer period of time, to earn the win this weekend.

Aspley are coming off a great month of footy where they have beaten some top teams to sneak into the final eight, then last week totally dismantled Caloundra and are a very dangerous opponent. These sides only met once this year, a 32 point win to the Magpies at Aspley's home ground.

This week is expected to be a much tougher assignment with Aspley qualifying quality Colt aged players to use for this finals campaign. They are a far more talentedside than early on the season, and the Pies, with basically the same squad all year, will need to rely on the combinations and trust built up through the regular season to carry them to victory.

A few injuries have meant all players in the squad will experience finals footy, and that is a great reward for the efforts throughout the season.

The unlucky guys who have had injury strike at the wrong time in Cam Smith & Damon Allen, and two others who may yet win the race against the clock in Dom Misso and Jimmy Gainford , will be urging the Magpies to produce one of the sort of gutsy wins that the club is built on.

The Colts team will need all the support they can get and will really appreciate as many Magpie faithful staying after the Seniors to see what shapes as a cracking Semi Final.

Coach Justin Gore has his side primed and ready to produce a top line performanceto keep their finals hopes alive for another week in what will be the last home game of the year.

Squad:
Misso, Gainford , Lawson, Renner, Gore, Vine, Adamson, Vagne, Morrison , Reynolds, Stumer, R.Johnson, Highlands, Rigsby-Jones, Johnstone- Bates, DeRooy, Luke, Roderick, Senescall, Grant, Burgess, Mazerolle, W. Johnson . ( one to be omitted )

BodyKey Chiropractic Milestone Alert - Tim McEvoy brings up 200

TIM McEVOY - 200 SENIOR GAMES

The Western Magpies Tim McEvoy will play his 200th Senior match for the Pies when they host Surfers Paradise at Chelmer on Saturday.

Clearly not a game day shot (no tape!)

"TMac " is as resilient as they come and gets every last drop out of his wiry body each week. He has played many matches with a "dicky" shoulder but just ignores the pain and gives his all to ensure the Pies are in every contest. He suffered osteitis pubis as a teenager and had surgery to correct this as a 17 year old.

It is a testament to his toughness that he still managed to play 200 Senior matches in good times and bad for the Pies.

He played a lot of his early football as a ruck-rover so was in the thick of the hurly-burly for two-thirds of his career then later in his career he has moved to half back where he uses his experience and reading of the play to thwart opposition attacks. He has become a defensive general as the Pies are again in the QAFL Finals mix and if they win on Saturday will be a definite Premiership threat.

Tim started at Sherwood in Under 6s so he has probably played over 500 matches for his beloved Black and Whites -thank God for that as he is also an avid Collingwood supporter and in all probability has black instead of red corpuscles.  He began as a 6 year old and has had 27 years with the Magpies.

Tim is from a famous Sherwood family and started playing football at Sherwood soon after he could walk and has been Black and White through and through ever since.

He won the club's Best and Fairest Award, the Bill Peirce Medal, in 2007 as well as winning several other club awards, including the much prized BG Award for Most Courageous player in 2008 and 2012 which is in honour of his best friend Brett Gwyther, who lost a short but hard fought battle with cancer in early 2007 after playing in the 2006 Premiership.

He was Vice-Captain of the Senior side for several years and has been in the leadership group for most of his playing career. He has played in three premierships for the Magpies-- 2006, 2008 and 2012.

Tim has been an inspirational player for the club throughout his career and has always showed enormous courage with his attack on the football but also to play with injuries and show young players in the club what loyalty and determination are all about. Not only that he is simply a good bloke which football clubs need to build a good club culture. 

He also served as Treasurer on the club's Board for 2 years in 2011-12 and was awarded Life Membership of the club in 2014.

He still helps out with coaching Sherwood junior teams in his 'spare' time!! He is coaching his 6 year old son Mason in Under 6swhich he admits can be frustrating and has 2 other children in Chloe and Declan so he will be involved in sport and football for many years to come.

His family have been an institution at the Magpies, with his father Michael also a long serving club stalwart, serving as club President for many years  and is also a Life Member and his mother Julie also served as the club's Treasurer and Board member for many years. His brothers Sean and Brett have also been a long serving Sherwood juniors then Western Magpies players and Sean is still playing for the Magpies, while Brett turns out for the Woodsmen. His sister Jess has been a great club supporter and has organised several womens' functions for the club and is married to another long serving player in Reid Dobson --what you have is a great Sherwood/Western Magpies family!

Tim was quick to acknowledge the support of his family and his wife Sophia to allow him to play football and contribute to the club he loves.

Coopers Club Update - 1981 Seniors & Reserves Premiership Reunion

1981 SHERWOOD PREMIERSHIPS REUNIONS

The Sherwood 1981 First and Reserve Grade Premiership Reunions will be held this Saturday at Chelmer. The current Pies pay a virtual elimination final against Surfers Paradise so it makes for a great day of football for the Pies faithful.  

1981 SENIORS FLAG

The Seniors went through the season with just one loss (to Acacia Ridge). Many of the players have said, in later years, how they had waited for the re-match with Acacia Ridge, which came in the 2nd Semi. The result was a 100 pt+ win to the Magpies. They were a very proud and competitive team!

The Grand Final was played, against Aspley, at Dittmer Park. The umpire in that game (yes, just 1 umpire) was AFL Hall of Fame Legend, Tom McArthur (Tom umpired a number of our grand final victories, including 1976, '80, '81 & '82).

Aspley was captain-coached by Terry Weller, who used his Windsor-Zillmere connections to qualify 4-5 Zillmere players, prior to the finals’ series. Sherwood won the flag with a comfortable 49 point win (co-incidentally, this would be the same winning margin again in 1982). In contrast to the Aspley side, Sherwood’s team was made up of local product, 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). Perhaps the standout performance from the game, was Gregg Stewart coming off the bench, just prior to half time, to end up with four (4) second half goals. The game started in wet, slippery conditions, after heavy rain fell overnight and again in the morning. Aspley started very strongly and were right in the hunt at half time. However, as the 2nd half commenced, the sun came out and conditions just kept improving as the game went on. The Magpies reveled in in the sunshine and played a brand of football that proved to be fat too good for a very strong opposition.

I remember Peter Talty (W/Zillmere), the Aspley full forward, making this comment, after he had been awarded a free kick in the goal square and converting for full points (a few of us were 'blowing up big time' about the validity of the free kick) - 'no wonder you guys are so successful, you even begrudge giving up a goal when you're over 50 points in front'!

Premiership Team:

B: J.Cawcutt - A.Giffard - J.Judson

HB: G.Hodgson - Z.Matega - J.McColl

C: I.Anderson - W.Peirce - G.McDonald

HF: C.Arnold - W.Selvage - D.Lashman

F: W.Lashman - S.Mitchell - J.Stidwell

Foll: R.Moore - C.Lashman - R.Lang

19th: G.Stewart

20th: S.Knox

Emergency: B.Campbell

RESERVES 1981 PREMIERS

The 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 Seniors 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 the Seniors 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.

METIS WEALTH MATCH REVIEW - BLACK WEEKEND FOR THE WEST

It was a black weekend for the Black and Whites as the Seniors, Reserves, Colts and Woodsmen all suffered significant defeats in important matches.

The Seniors put their finals prospects in jeopardy with a 10 goal defeat, the Reserves blew a chance to go into the five with a narrow loss, the Colts were blown away in the second half of their Qualifying Final and the Woodsmen bowed out of the 2016 finals with a loss in the First Semi Final. 

The good news is that the Seniors can still finish in third place but it will be tight on several fronts, the Reserves will need a big slice of luck to make it and the Colts get a second chance in the First Semi Final vs Aspley this week.

BAD LOSS COSTS PIE SENIORS DEARLY

A match the Western Magpies were confident of winning and cementing a finals position went pear shaped as the Pies capitulated in the second half to suffer their second ten goal loss to Morningside this season. The loss resulted in a loss of percentage as well as allowing Morningside to draw level on points with the Magpies. The Pies still hold third place on the ladder but such is the ladder and draw that they face a virtual elimination final when they host fourth placed Surfers Paradise at Chelmer on Saturday.

Even a win on Saturday could result in a either third or fourth placed finish as Morningside play Sandgate and this brings percentage into the equation-- the Pies hold a 5.22 percent advantage over Morningside, which equates to about a 12 goal win which means a narrow Pies victory could still see them slip a place on the ladder-- there will be plenty of AFLQ Live Score watching on Saturday!! A Pies loss means season over unless Wilston Grange upset Mt Gravatt.

In Saturday's match, leading by a point deep into time on in the second quarter before a late Panthers goal gave them a 5 point half time lead, the Pies were well in the game and in fact for long periods controlled the match in the first half without putting scoreboard pressure on the home team.

The first half was tough contested football and the Magpies decided to play it close to restrict the Panthers scoring.

The second half did not go to plan as the Pies were beaten in the middle of the ground and the home side killed the Pies on the spread who were back pedaling as a result and indisappointing second half were outscored 12 goals to 2. The Pies were fumble-bums after half timeand missed targets with hand and foot and it was an uncharacteristic display from the Magpies. Key defender Chris Hunt was injured in the second quarter and could not resume after half time and he was sorely missed.

The only winner on the day for the Pies was 17 year old fullback Charlie Pershouse, who kept Morningside's decorated full forward Kent Abey to one goal. Pershouse matched his much celebrated opponent for height and pace and his spoiling and close checking was one positive for the Magpies.

Despite being hampered with a sore foot Drew Mitchell worked hard to lift his side and another 17 year old in Will Fletcher also had a strong game across half back to underline his potential.

David Lewis was also a good player trying to stem the tide and he has had a very good few weeks with consistent football.

Nick Barling, enjoying being now injury free for the first time this year, worked hard in ruck and gave drive around ground and Jadan Morton played as a virtual old-fashioned ruck-rover and he battled hard all around the ground in an effort to lift his side.

Coach Nathan Clarke locked his charges in the rooms after the match to spell out a few home truths and he will expect his team to lift for this week's big match. It is a virtual elimination final--the loser misses out but if the Pies win it may secure third place and a Qualifying Final place and the double chance the following week.

The Magpies finals series starts a week early, so get down to the Nest this week and throw your support behind the Black & White!

Western Magpies 1.4 - 10 | 3.8 - 26 | 4.10 - 34 | 5.16 - 46

lost to

Morningside 1.5 -11 | 4.7 - 31 | 10.9 - 69 | 16.10 - 106

Best: Pershouse, D.Mitchell, Fletcher, Lewis, Barling, Morton

Goals: Sondergeld, Saunders, D.Mitchell, Carseldine, Copland

Sci Fleet Taringa - Ressies Review

RESERVES BLOW CHANCES

The Western Magpies Reserves blew a golden chance to play finals football when poor kicking for goal cost them a chance of victory over ladder leaders Morningside. The Pies dominated the first quarter but wayward kicking for goal when they booted 1-9 cost them dearly in the final analysis.

Inaccuracy aside, it was a high quality Reserves game and the Pies had enough of the ball to win the match but went down by 8 points, 10.11-71 to 8.15-63.

The Pies are mathematically still a chance to make the five but must win over third placed Surfers Paradise on Saturday and rely on Wilston Grange defeating Mt Gravatt. Grange can still also make the five if they win and the Pies lose so will be coming hard at the Vultures and for the Pies this means where there is hope there is life!!

The Magpies missed half a dozen gettable goals in the first quarter on Saturday and if they had converted these then may have had a lead they could have maintained until the final siren. The Pies again missed several easy goals in the third quarter and had 4 more scoring shots than the Panthers.

Unfortunately when the match was up for grabs in the third and final quarters the Magpies did not work hard enough and at times were lazy, especially when Morningside had the ball.

Half backs Rhys Bridge and Sean Mewing put their hands up for a senior recall with strong games and fullback Luke de Nys was solid in the last line of defence.

Brady Allen in midfield was also a good player without dominating but did enough to be also be in the reckoning for a senior recall.

Another for senior consideration is new player Joe Murphy who had plenty of the ball playing in the middle and usually found a target. Jake Farrell booted 4 goals up forward, with two in the last quarter to keep the Pies hopes alive until the last few minutes.

Coach Craig Allen lamented a missed chance but will stress to his charges that they must approach this week's match as an elimination final with a win a must and then hope Grange can get over Mt Gravatt.

Morningside 1.2-8 |  4.4-28 |  6.8-44 | 10.11-71

defeated

Western Magpies 1.9-15| 3.9-27| 4.14-38 |  8.15-63

Best: R. Bridge, S. Mewing, L. De Nys, J. Murphy, B. Allen, J. Farrell

Goals: J. Farrell 4, W. Johnson, T. Billing, S. Hubbert, B. Allen
 

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. )