METIS WEALTH MATCH REVIEW - PIES MISFIRE VS TIGERS

The Western Magpies were defeated by 22 points by Labrador in the QAFL Second Semi Final at Labrador on Saturday.

The Pies were like a misfiring V8, spluttering on 6 cylinders and the 6 cylinders weren't exactly in tune either!!

The bad news is the Pies lost a game they could have won. The good news is they get another chance next Saturday and despite the fact that they have not been playing at their best and have a few players down on form - they still play for a spot in the Grand Final next week.  Pleasingly, while they were off the pace on Saturday, the Pies never let Labrador off the leash and were like a dog with a bone -- this side just keeps grinding away and every opposition player knows they won't go away.  Losing by the relatively slim margin of 22 points after a spluttering display should give the group confidence that their best football is definitely good enough.

As QAFL reporter Andrew Wiles suggested, the Pies just keep coming-- "The Magpies just hang around: Even when things aren’t going their way, they are never out of it. They have got a lot of players with a lot of ticker. To beat them, you have to be on all afternoon, because if you ease off, they will pounce".

The final scoreline was 16.14-110 to 13.10-88 but the Pies gifted Labrador 4 goals with basic errors or turnovers in the defensive 50, and also missed a couple of sitters in front of goal.  This proved to be the difference in the final analysis.

In mild blustery conditions that were benign for the Labrador ground and did not favour either end, the Pies were out of the blocks in the first 10 minutes, booting the first 2 goals of the game then allowing the Tigers a reply before booting a third. One early goal was from Brent Staker who won a free kick after being manhandled and despite several similar infringements during the game that was the only free kick he was awarded for the match - a consistent theme in recent outings.

The home team then consolidated and attacked for the rest of the quarter to first peg the Pies back then go to a 15 point lead at quarter time.

It was catch up football for the Pies from then on and whenever they looked like closing the gap the Tigers had an answer. The lead was often in the 3 to 4 goal range and the elastic band at times looked like it would break but to their credit the Pies never gave up and would boot a timely goal to give their supporters faint hope of a comeback.

After half time the Pies would mount an assault and kick a goal to narrow the gap, then through hard work seem on course to boot another to put some doubts in the home team's psyche, but then cough up possession and the Tigers would boot an easy goal to release the pressure and keep the margin and their confidence up.

Best players for the Magpies were Drew Mitchell and Cal Carseldine in the midfield, both winning plenty of hard ball gets then also proving to be good link up players. Both also were strong when resting across half forward.

Luke Scott tried hard to lift his teammates and he bobbed up all over the ground but was a rock across half back and then linked through the middle of the ground.

Rover Matt Sondergeld was frenetic as usual and attacked the contest with gay abandon at times and put his body on the line time and again.

David Lewis again played a strong game in defence with good spoiling and then winning tough football at ground level. He has been in fine form in the latter half of the season.

Jadan Morton also broke even in ruck and Ben Jaenke-Cain worked hard as usual. The Pies were well beaten on the outside run and in all honesty the Pies midfield lowered their colours to Labrador

The other statistic the Pies can both be unhappy and happy about in a convoluted way is that they missed 47 tackles for the match and were beaten in the middle of the ground.

Tighten up in both these areas, reduce the turnovers and the Pies are more than capable of defeating Labrador.

However, the next task is to overcome Palm Beach-Currumbin, easy winners on Sunday over Mt Gravatt, in the sudden death Preliminary Final next Saturday to earn another crack at the Tigers a week later in the Grand Final.

Coach Nathan Clarke and his selectors have a difficult yet enviable task selecting the bestteam this week with Co-Captain Lachlan Woods and key defender Chris Hunt likely to be fit after missing with injury, half back Will Fletcher in the mix after being omitted this week and a host of other quality options ready to go if needed.

The AFLQ has again decreed the Magpies home ground at Chelmer is not up to standard to host a QAFL finals match and with Yeronga booked for a QFA Grand Final next week the venue for next week's Preliminary Final is yet to be announced.

Hopefully the AFLQ selecta venue in consultation with the Magpies heirarchy to acknowledge the Western Magpies as the club with hosting rights after defeating PBC last week.

Coach's thoughts

Nathan Clarke – Western Magpies

“Today was one that got away. Labrador definitely deserved to win though, and were the better team all day.

“We were beaten around the stoppages all afternoon, which was disappointing.

“We just didn’t play that well to put it simply, but we have just got to butter up, see who we are playing next week, and learn from today.

“I think our forward line needs to be re-wired; it just hasn’t fully clicked into gear for probably a month.

“It’s business as usual though. We gave ourselves every opportunity leading up to it, we just had a few too many players not playing well enough.”

Labrador Tigers 5.4 - 34 | 9.7 - 61 | 12.10 - 82 | 16.14 - 100

defeated

Western Magpies 3.1 - 19 | 6.2 - 38 | 9.4 - 58 | 13.10 - 88

Goals: Staker 3, Sondergeld, Copland, Saunders 2, Easton, Carseldine, Jeanke-Cain, D.Mitchell 1

Best: D.Mitchell, Carseldine, Lewis, Sondergeld, Scott, Morton

PLACE PREVIEW - MAGPIES READY TO SWOOP TIGERS

The Western Magpies are ready to take on Labrador in the QAFL Second Semi Final at Labrador on Saturday. In a huge match, the Pies can make history if they win and go straight into their first QAFL Grand Final as a standalone club.

The Pies are ready for the big match and the Tigers now hold no fears for the Pies, which may not have been the case in 2015.

The sides share a win apiece this season with both wins by less than a goal combined. In the last clash in the wet the Pies gave Labrador an 8 goal start and then almost reeled them in after a frantic last quarter, so the Pies know they are more than a match for the minor premiers.

In their earlier clash the Magpies won after a late goal, so no matter what the situation, the Pies players know they if they apply pressure then Labrador are vulnerable.

That will be the theme coach Nathan Clarke has drummed into his players this year and no doubt emphasised it this week--pressure football at the contest, do the "one percenters"  and work together and the rest will look after itself.

The selectors have made two changes to the side with Co-CaptainLachlan Woods not overcoming a lower abdominal strain and Charlie Pershouse returning after missing last week with illness and Will Fletcher omitted. With Labrador having several tall forwards, the tall Pershouse was a better option for this game.

The selectors brought in Luke Mitchell for Woods and despite missing the past 4 matches with unavailability he is fit and well, and should be able to resume where he left off. Mitchell was one of the form Magpies before he became unavailable and he will be fresh for the contest. Ruckmen Nick Barling and Dom Beer were again overlooked for a more versatile option in Jadan Morton with Alex Dickfos to pinch hit in ruck as well as play as a key forward. Woods hardness at the contest will be missed as he has been playing his best football for some time in the latter half of the season.

The mobility and athleticism of Jadan Morton means he can play as 1st ruck and be also a ball-winner around ground which has allowed the selectors more flexibility.  Chris Hunt was close but it was decided to give him one more week.

The Pies selectors have versatility on their side with Val Pope and Luke Scott swinging between deep forward and in the midfield rotations, with Scott also having the ability to play down back with aplomb.

Theforward line rarely lines up these days in the traditional format with Brent Staker and Sam Copland rolling around deep then pushing up the ground and Alex Dickfos dropping into the key forward role when necessary. Brenton Saunders provides forward pressure and Drew Mitchell also adds firepower as he spends more time up forward than on the ball. 

The midfield lifted last week when the match was on the line and none better than Cal Carseldine who was at his inspirational best in the tense final quarter, winning tough contested ball and putting his body on the line time and again. He has a few partners in crime who followed willingly last week and will do so again in Ben Jaenke-Cain, Brady Allen and Gareth Crawford.

Crawford in particular showed signs of a return to his dominant mid-season form last week and will be setting the bar high again this week, with his vast experience invaluable for the Pies, particularly in big games.

The half back line of David Lewis, Sean Mewing and Tyler Jones is a dashing one but they can also lock down opponents. Lewis and Jones in particular have been exceptional in the past month with intercept marks, pack packs and dash out of the backline. However each will have a Labrador forward to contain so and will have done their homework on each assigned player

Pershouse has been a revelation at fullback since his promotion 6 weeks ago and will again have a big job on one of the Tigers key forwards.

This is the biggest match to date in the Magpies' standalone QAFL history and the Pies know they can match it with Labrador and Labrador know that the Magpies are their biggest threat in this year's premiership race.  The Pies must win the contested football and stop any outside run from Labrador to give their defenders time to match up. Expect a tough contest and as the Pies excel in the tight, hard, close-in contested football they will give themselves every chance of victory.

If the Pies bring their A game then they have every reason to be confident of overcoming Labrador on their home ground and advancing to the QAFL Grand Final.

Western Magpies vs Labrador - Cooke-Murphy Oval, Labrador - Saturday September 3 @ 2pm

B: Tim McEvoy - Charlie Pershouse - Richard Wenham

HB: Sean Mewing - David Lewis - Tyler Jones

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

HF: Drew Mitchell - Brent Staker - Sam Copland

F: Brenton Saunders - Val Pope - Alex Dickfos

Foll: Jadan Morton - Ben Jaenke-Cain - Matt Sondergeld

INT: Luke Mitchell - Gareth Crawford - Brodie Easton - Brady Allen

EMG: Will Fletcher - Nick Barling - Liam Dwyer

METIS WEALTH MATCH REVIEW - PIES WIN FINALS THRILLER OVER PBC

The Western Magpies have had a thrilling 4 point victory over Palm Beach-Currumbin at Currumbin in the QAFL Qualifying Final on Saturday. The Pies hung on in a nail-biting final few minutes to win 13.10-88 to 12.12-84 and book an appointment with Labrador at Labrador next Saturday with a spot in the 2016 QAFL Grand Final up for grabs.

The match was a high quality contest played in front of a big crowd and after the Pies had established a good quarter time lead and then PBC fought back to level the score at halftime it was a nail-biting contest for the entire second half. First one side would sneak a goal lead only to have the other side fight back to wrest the lead. The scores were again locked together at three-quarter time and then at the 24 minute mark of the final stanza, the scores remained level before a Brodie Easton snap put the Pies a goal up.

There was more drama to come in the final five minutes as the Pies supporters had their hearts in their mouth as the Lions attacked and attacked but their long range shots from tight angles failed to register the answering goal they needed to level the scores or take back the lead. The Magpies were on the attack as the siren sounded with the ball safely in Will Fletcher's hands whose after the siren shot from 30 metres missed but it didn't matter as the Pies celebrated their victory.

The Magpies were a player down from quarter time with Co-captain Lachlan Woods off with a leg strain so with a player down on the rotations the win was full of guts and merit.

The other Co-captain Cal Carseldine drove himself relentlessly at each contest and his side followed him in the tense last quarter and his 2 goals almost book-ended the Pies victory.

The Pies selectors elected to go in with a smaller team than in recent weeks to add pace to match the speedy Lions and they brought in Richard Wenham to mark the fast leading Lions full forward in Douglas but he was able to get off the leash a number of times.

This meant ruckman Nick Barling, who had been playing well, was rested and Luke Mitchell, missing the past 4 matches due to work commitments, could not squeeze back in ahead of Matt Sondergeld coming back from 1 week out. Charlie Pershouse did not shake off a virus and was spelled.

With Jadan Morton competing well in the ruck, the Pies were on top early. Ben Jaenke-Cain worked hard up and down the ground to be a good player and Brady Allen was solid all over the ground. Luke Scott was, well, Luke Scott--directing traffic, taking intercept marks and marshalling his players in the tough and tense affair.

David Lewis continues to be a fine defender holding down the key CHB post and his contested marking was a highlight and Brent Staker was solid at CHF despite being man-handled whenever he went near the ball without reward.

Coach Nathan Clarke praised his players for the their intensity all match and resilience and composure in the tense final quarter to ensure the win.  He complimented the leadership group for how they marshalled all the players and continued to apply pressure all match.   

With Nick Barling, Luke Mitchell, Dom Beer and Charlie Pershouse all available for selection, Chris Hunt recovering quickly from a less serious then first thought hamstring strain and Joe Murphy all in the wings, Nathan Clarke and the selectors have a wealth of talent to consider and an unenviable task picking the team for next Saturday's big clash at Labrador.

Western Magpies 5.1 - 31 | 7.4 - 46 | 10.8 - 68 | 13.10 - 88

defeated

Palm Beach Currumbin 1.4 - 10 | 7.4 - 46 | 10.8 - 68 | 12.12 - 84

Best: Carseldine, Morton, Scott, Lewis, Jaenke-Cain, Allen

Goals: Carseldine, Copland, Staker 2, D.Mitchell 2, Dickfos, Easton, Jones, Saunders, Morton 1

CK Group - Colts Review

PIES COLTS BOW OUT WITH HEADS HELD HIGH

The Western Magpies Colts gave everything they had in their Preliminary Final against Maroochydore on Saturday morning. Unfortunately it just wasn't enough for victory, but anyone who witnessed the match would agree, the side lost no admirers in defeat and can hold their heads high.

It was a tight defensive arm wrestle in the first half, with both sides using the extra defender behind the ball, and both midfields gut-running to block up the oppositions forward line.

Scoring was difficult as a result and the half-time score reflected this with a 4 goals to 1 lead to the home side.

The game was played in perfect conditions and on one of the best surfaces you would ever see. Despite the scoreline, it was an entertaining half of footy, and the pressure both sides put on each other was immense. The 22 point lead to Maroochydoore was a result of the home side taking their chances while the Pies were trying to be too perfect, pushing the extra possession when attacking the goals was the best option.

The coaching group made adjustments and asked the boys to be bold and back themselves. Setting up with a more traditional structure, and using a bigger midfield in Jake Farrell, Dom Morrison & Matt Mazorelle, the game opened up a bit. With the mids and half backs getting well on top, and ruckman Aaron Highlands dominating both at ruck contests and around the ground ,  the Pies had much the better of most of the 3rd quarter. Rory Johnson’s move forward was paying off, but again just couldn't take full advantage. The Pies would pay dearly for not being able to apply scoreboard pressure in the third quarter to go with the territory advantage held and it proved crucial in the final result.

2.5 to 1.2 for the quarter didn't do the effort justice and if it was 5.2 instead the result may have been very different.

Still the team went into three quarter time believing if they were good enough they they were close enough to cause a boilover. Again injury struck, with Skipper Dom Misso an early casualty, and Phil Stumer, Patty Renner, Jimmy Gainford and Ash Gore all spending time getting treatment. It's a credit to the lads that they all would not let the boys down and returned to play important roles for the side.

Unfortunately the effort put in to peg back Maroochydore was starting to tell, and although the young Pies never chucked in the towel and fought right to the end, the final margin was the same as half time. It was a great game of Colts footy, and a credit to both sides. Tough and hard, no quarter asked or given, but in the end the home side was a little bit better forward of centre and they move through to the Grand Final, where they will be strong favourites for the flag.

Coach Justin Gore was very proud of the side and to reach a Preliminary Final was above expectations given the Magpies did not field a Colts team last year and had this to say:

“So,  that's the end of the road in 2016 for our reborn Colts program. We hope the supporters are proud of the way the young Magpies have represented our club, and we wish Nathan , Cal, Lachie and all the senior squad the very best of luck as they strive to bring the Flag back to the nest...”

Score :

Maroochydore        9.12.66

Western Magpies.  6. 8 44

Goals : DeRooy 3, Burgess, R.Johnson, Farrell

Best : Highlands, Adamson, R.Johnson, Farrell, Gore, Reynolds.

PLACE PREVIEW - MAGPIES CONFIDENT FOR QUALIFYING FINAL

The Western Magpies will be full of confidence going into their QAFL Qualifying Final clash with Palm Beach-Currumbin at Currumbin on Saturday.

The Pies had a nail biting win last week to secure the double chance but it has instilled confidence into the group, while PBC had a 6 goal first quarter against Labrador but booted only 2 more goals for the game as Labrador ran riot.

The Pies have named an extended interchange bench with an illness cloud over young fullback Charlie Pershouse and they have brought in Richard Wenham after recovering from injury and Matt Sondegeld after missing through unavailability to both add pace to the side and Luke Mitchell comes onto the extended bench after missing the past 3 matches due to work commitments. 

The Pies have looked to pick a 'horses-for-course's team as the last time these two met in round 11  the Pies won by 9 goals after being themselves thrashed by a similar margin in round 5. In the first clash the Pies were beaten for pace and outside run but in the second game the Magpies had a faster team, and were more intense at the contest and reversed the earlier result--hence Wenham and Sondergeld back into the side to inject pace and intensity.

In the last clash, Brent Staker booted 5 goals and Sam Copland his second 4 goal haul in 2 outings in Senior football at Salk Oval, and they again figure as key forwards for the Pies. Staker avoiding the wrath of the QAFL Tribunal was great news for the Magpies as he will be a vital player in the finals. He will be better for the run last week after missing 4 games with injury and with Alex Dickfos running into form at the right time of the year the Pies have a strong forward set up. Copland has regained his leading and marking mojo and he will be a great foil for Staker and Dickfos. That does not even include Luke Scott who will play some role up forward and Val Pope was missing the last time these sides met so while named on a wing is known to drift forward to kick the odd goal.

The engine room has had some fits and starts recently but Cal Carseldine and Ben Jaenke-Cain have been consistent ball winners and were keys to the Pies win in round 11.

Gareth Crawford was dominant through the middle part of the season, and while slowing down a bit recently - he is a class player who has plenty of finals experience and will revel in the increased tempo and intensity of finals football and is expected to regain his outstanding mid-season form.

Jadan Morton has been superb in Ruck with a good leap and his mobility has been a bonus, playing as a ruck-rover around the ground. Drew Mitchell is shaking off a nagging foot injury and last week started to get back to his mid season form on ball and across half forward where he has also kicked crucial goals for the Pies.

Luke Scott has also spent some time on a wing and Matt Davis floats there as well so the centreline has plenty of class.

Down back youngsters in Charlie Pershouse and Will Fletcher have done all that was asked of them but Pershouse has a virus and will be fitness tested tomorrow morning. Fletcher providespace out of defence to add to Tyler Jones and Sean Mewing's run and carry and they also complement the experience and toughness of 200 gamer Tim McEvoy.

David Lewis has been a revelation at CHB taking on both tall and/or leading CHFs and matching them in the air and on the ground.

Wenham has been named at fullback but will likely play and little more up the ground--his tackling pressure at the contest and closing speed will be valuable on the small Salk Oval.

Who starts favourite in this match is anyone's guess but the Pies have enjoyed success over the years at Salk Oval and it does not hold any fears for them. The Magpies' hardness at the contest and then spread and run will be crucial to the outcome and if they can replicate their round 11 form then will be well on the way to a win and an appointment with Labrador the following Saturday for a chance to get to the big one.

Western Magpies vs Palm Beach Currumbin Lions - Salk Oval, Currumbin - Sat Aug 27th @ 2pm

B: Tim McEvoy - Richard Wenham - Will Fletcher

HB: Sean Mewing - David Lewis - Tyler Jones

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

HF: Drew Mitchell - Brent Staker - Sam Copland

F: Brenton Saunders - Luke Scott - Matt Sondergeld

Foll: Jadan Morton - Lachlan Woods (c) - Ben Jaenke-Cain

Int (from): Alex Dickfos - Nick Barling - Gareth Crawford - Brodie Easton - Brady Allen - Luke Mitchell - Charlie Pershouse

EMG: Dom Beer - Liam Dwyer

BodyKey Chiropractic - Colts Preliminary Final Preview

Big Challenge Big reward for colts in Preliminary final .

This week sees the Magpie Colts travel up the coast to face off with Maroochydore for a place in the 2016 QAFL Division 1 Colts Grand Final.

They have earned this chance after producing a stirring win against a highly rated Aspley side last week at Chelmer . The confidence gained through earning that win will be invaluable this week.

It's fair to say the Magpie Colts will start fairly large underdogs against a side that has only tasted defeat once this year, but as we all know, in finals, anything is possible. We only have to beat them once, this Saturday, and the grand final awaits.

The side will be looking for a continuation of the of the recent hot form of Rory Johnson & Dominic Morrison. Both these lads have proved they like a challenge, and both have senior football in them should they want it.

The midfield has been a strength all year for both teams. The winner of this battle will go a long way to deciding who comes away with the victory. Much will be needed from Dom Misso, Liam Reynolds, Ruckman Aaron Highlands and our multitude of rotation options to provide tall towards in Jeremy DeRooy & Jake Farrell, Mid sized options in Billy Johnson , Patty Renner & Matt Mazzerolle and excitement machine Phil Stumer, plenty of quality delivery so they can kick the side to victory.

The back line has been greatlately, led by Kurt Vine at Full back and Mark Adamson. The willingness to work for each other and to make sure that there are no easy goals for the opposition has been the key . With the tough and combative Josh Senescall, Ryan Vagne and Tommy Roderick, all the Maroochydore forwards will know they have played a game. Tommy Lukes tight checking role is just as important .  It's not all lock down defence however, as the lads are given the license to attack and be bold when we have possession.

The side welcomes back Jake Farrell and Billy Johnson from reserves duty and Damon Allen back from injury.

Last weeks tough battle has claimed Jessie Rigsby Jones and Chae Lawson with Shoulder and neck injuries. Along with backline general Cam Smith's news last week, they have likely played their last games for the year, making it 8 young Magpies who have had their season cut short by injury. The depth of talent at the club has been vital in keeping the 2016 Magpie Colts in contention for a Grand final spot.

The colts wish the seniors all the best of luck in their final against PBC and realise that most supporters will rightly be headed that way, but anybody game enough to head up to Maroochydore to cheer on the boys will be rewarded with a magpie side that will give everything it has to cause an upset and earn the right to play either Mt Gravatt or Southport for the title of best colts side in Queensland .

Game starts at 9.15 Saturday Morning at Maroochydore sports ground.

Squad is

D. Misso, A. Highland L.Reynolds, R. Johnson, W. Johnson, A.Gore, K.Vine , D.Morrison, J. DeRooy, M. Adamson, J. Senescall, R.VagneJ.Gainford, P.Renner, J. Farrell , M. Mazerolle, C. Grant, J. Johnstone-Bates, P. Stumer, T. Roderick, T.Luke, W.Burgess, D.Allen

Alchemy Night 2016 - A Big Thanks!

Alchemy 2016 was once again a stand out event; made possible by all of our generous event sponsors – thank you so much.  Without the support of our event sponsors, the fabulous Alchemy event would not be possible.  Alchemy is a major fund raiser for the Sherwood Football Club, and it was an absolute pleasure to see so many people enjoy the big night out.

As usual, there were patrons there from all walks of life present on the night; mingling, laughing and just enjoying each others company.  The guys from GWS were a welcome bonus, and they provided some rather impromptu entertainment; hosted by the Western Magpies Coach, Nathan Clarke.  Who would ever have known about the ‘girl contact’ competition if it hadn’t been brought up at Alchemy!  Simon Black was very gracious with his time as usual; and Sofie Formica was absolutely outstanding as the MC. 

It was great to see so many senior players and club members in attendance.  Top marks again go to Brad, Angie and the magnificent staff from Alchemy – the food and beverages were exquisite, and it just kept flowing the entire evening. 

We are indebted to our wonderful Alchemy event sponsors; and at every opportunity you get, we would like you to utilise their services where possible.

Mack Trucks – for all things trucking. Mack were great sponsors to the club in 2015, and for that we are very thankful.

Finlease – when you need finance for the extra things in life, you need to call Finlease or go to www.finlease.com.au

Pacific Petroleum – well now you have finance and a new truck, you need to put fuel in it, and who better to help you than Pacific Petroleum – head to www.pacificpetroleum.com.au

JHK Legal – amazing supporter of Alchemy.  For all your legal needs; nothing is too big or too small – head straight to JHK Legal and they will solve your issueswww.jhklegal.com.au

Aqua Aqua – now this is something pretty special.  If you have the desire to take a luxurious holiday, or just rest for a couple of days; then this is the place for you   www.aquaaqualuxurypenthouses.com.au

Of course, we can't forget our valued club sponsors- many of whom were in attendance.  Thanks to our major club partners Place Graceville for providing one of QLD's top auctioneers for the evening, as well as for their attendance and support.  Thanks also must go to the folks at 24 Fit, Coopers, Sci Fleet Hino, Sci Fleet Toyota, BodyKey, Bardon Medical, Cooper Fozard, CFMG Capital, Metis Wealth and Jimboomba Turf for attending the event and supporting the club throughout the entire season.

To everybody that attended Alchemy 2016 and supported the Sherwood Football Club; thank you so much, we really appreciate it.  Every dollar that was raised goes straight back to the club, and this is possible due to these wonderful sponsors.  So every chance you get, please support our sponsors and utilise their services.

Sci Fleet Taringa - Tribunal Update

STAKER CLEARED BY AFLQ REVIEW PANEL — NO CASE TO ANSWER

Western Magpies CHF Brent Staker is free to play in Saturday’s QAFL Qualifying Final against Palm Beach-Currumbin after the AFLQ Review Panel decided he had no case to answer after reviewing footage of the second quarter incident when he was reported for striking on Saturday.

The panel agreed there was no reportable contact in the incident.

Staker is a key player for the Pies and was in fine form when the Pies defeated the Lions by 9 goals at Palm Beach in Round 11. He was a little rusty on Saturday after missing several weeks with injury but should be fit and firing this week.

Salk Oval at Palm Beach holds no fears for the Magpies as they have had some memorable victories there over recent seasons and after a nail-biting win last week secured the double chance the Pies will be confident of victory.

Coopers Player Update - Jacko named in NEAFL Team of the Year

Ex Sherwood/Western Magpies player Jackson Allen has been named in the NEAFL Team of the Year at a gala function in Sydney last night.

Jackson joined Aspley this year and was named in a back pocket although he has spent most of the season on a back flank.

Jacko played for Sherwood at Under 16 level then played for the Western Magpies as a teenager in 2009-10 when the Pies were in the QAFL before joining Morningside in 2011 after the Pies went to the Pineapple Hotel Cup with the formation of the NEAFL.

He was then drafted by Gold Coast in 2012 and played 4 AFL matches for the Suns in 2012-13.

He then joined Sturt in the SANFL for two years before moving back to Queensland to link with Aspley in the NEAFL.

Aspley have finals coming up but he will take a close interest in the Magpies assault on the QAFL premiership with his brother Brady a senior Magpies player and Dad Craig the Pies Reserves coach this season.

BodyKey Chiropractic - Colts Review

COLTS INTO PRELIMINARY FINAL

The Magpie Colts produced when it mattered this week and came away with a win full of courage and commitment against a fierce and willing Aspley. The 20-point victory was achieved mainly through sheer guts and a refusal to lose.

The injury curse struck again, and hard, with the side having no bench to call on at all for the majority of the second half, although the side was down 2 players from very early in the second quarter. So the end result was full of merit and the confidence gained from toughing it out will be invaluable.

The first quarter was intense with both sides cracking in and it was only straight kicking from the Magpies that saw them ahead 3.0-18 to 1.3-9. The defence worked really hard and it’s a credit to fullback Kurt Vine and his partners in crime Mark Adamson, Ryan Vagne, the 2 Tom’s, Roderick and Luke, and the always combative Josh Senescall for keeping Aspley’s quality tall forwards and fleet of mid-sized players under control. In fact, Vine was so good on the full forward he was moved onto a wing to get him into the game. Dom Morrison has had a fantastic last month playing as the 7th defender, and his aerial work, courage to fly for his marks and reading of the play caused the opposition to re think their plan of attack. He truly has been a revelation in that role since being shifted to defence. He’s one to watch in the future.

This commitment to defence, and then switching to attack after gaining possession was causing havoc for Aspley, and a 5 goal second quarter was the reward. This style of play does take a large amount of effort though, and being down 2 players was effecting rotations and ability to give the midfield the rest they needed.  The 31-point halftime margin looked good on the scoreboard, but there were concerns about the ability to keep the level of effort required going for the full game. The 3rd quarter saw another injury and the Magpies were down to one fit rotation. Aspley sensed they were wobbling and piled on the pressure. The midfield group of Rory Johnson, Dom Misso, Liam Reynolds, Jimmy Gainford, Ash Gore, Matt Mazerolle and the twin ruckmen in Aaron Highlands and Jessie Rigsby-Jones, who had been absolutely dominant in the first half, just couldn’t get the rest needed. The defence again stood up as best they could while being under siege, and their efforts to hold on were a key in the final result.

Aspley got within 5 points, and had all momentum, but a late goal from the boundary from an unlikely source in the improving Will Burgess, lifted the lads and whilst Aspley got that one back, the Pies still went into 3 quarter time with the lead.

With the coaches giving honest feedback and the squad accepting it was up to the 17 or 18 fit players to get the job done, the boys headed out for the last quarter knowing it was all over for the year if they didn’t find it within to lift again. What we saw was a group of young men who found something deep down inside.  Together they just refused to lose and as the intensity lifted, Aspley couldn’t handle the pressure and folded. As is often the case and certainly not unique to the Hornets, they went the man and it backfired on them. Our lads stood up and did not take a backwards step, didn’t give away cheap free kicks or have guys sent off with yellow cards, but flew the Magpie flag well. The result was stirring to see, and the forward line of Jeremy DeRooy, Jaiden Johnstone Bates, the sore but brave Phil Stumer, Patty Renner, who played his best game of the season when it counted, and a rotation of our exhausted midfielders, kicked straight (except for a missed shot from the top of the square!) and worked overtime to keep the ball in the area. It was enough for the Colts to earn the Victory and the chance to play off for a Grand Final spot this weekend.

It will be a busy week for the medical staff as at least 6 players finished the game with various injuries, and while there may be some players returning from injury or from being required elsewhere, it will take 22 fit and committed Magpie colts to stop a strong Maroochydore side and earn the right to play off for the title. A big week awaits.

Magpies 12.7 - 79

defeated

Aspley 9.5 - 59

Best: R.Johnson, L.Reynolds, D.Morrison, R.Renner, K.Vine, M.Mazerolle, J.Rigsby-Jones

Goals: DeRooy 3, Stumer 2, Highlands, Reynolds, Burgess, Gore, Adamson, Mazerolle, Lawson 1

METIS WEALTH MATCH REVIEW - PIES SECURE DOUBLE CHANCE

To quote Brian Taylor, "Oh boy, oh wowee!!"

The Western Magpies have hung on for a 2 point nailbiting win over Surfers Paradise Demons to secure third place and the double chance in the QAFL on Saturday.

"Who would have thunk it" as the QAFL final round script could not have been envisaged - the Pies and Demons both took the field thinking the loser of their match would miss out on finals but then Sandgate go and have a huge upset win over Morningside to knock the Panthers out of the finals and give Surfers a lifeline.

Mt Gravatt and Wilston Grange play their seconddraw of the season and on the back of that the Vultures climb from sixth to fourth--go figure!! Labrador thrash Palm Beach-Currumbin and take top spot for the first time this season and PBC drop to second and will host the Magpies next Saturday in the Qualifying Final.

A healthy crowd that had plenty of Sherwood juniors on hand to congratulate 200 gamer Tim McEvoy and also the attendees of the 1981 Sherwood Premierships were treated to a high quality match that was played with finals-like intensity-- for both sides it was a finals match a week earlier than scheduled!

Huge crowd watching the action

Surfers Paradise were quick out of the blocks and had the first 3 goals on the board and were looking threatening whenever they went forward with quick movement of the ball and plenty of outside run. They capitalised on any Pies mistake and it took the home team 15 minutes to settle, tighten up and then start to win some midfield football. Two goals to Alex Dickfos, who took a couple of strong grabs to announce he is officially back as the spearhead, narrowed the gap to keep the Pies in it.

In a pulsating second quarter where each contest was fierce the Pies looked to wrest control but each time it looked like they were about to break away the Demons fought back with a goal to keep their noses in front at half time.

In the second quarter Magpies CHF Brent Staker was reported for striking in a marking contest and he will contest this at the Tribunal, claiming he collided with his opponent but did not strike him. The verdict will be eagerly awaited by the Pies faithful as he is critical to the Magpies assault on the flag.

Sam Copland booted 2 goals and Brenton Saunders was busy up forward and David Lewis and Tyler Jones were getting on top across half back with telling intercept marks. Luke Scott was back to his best in the unfamiliar position of wing and again used his experience to break up Demon attacks and also drive the Pies forward.

The Magpies came out firing in the premiership quarter to kick 6 goals to 2 to take a 19 point lead at the final break. It was here that the Pies midfield started to get on top with Lachlan Woods hardness at the contest setting a few opponents backwards, Cal Carseldine was in and under and Brodie Easton worked up and down the ground to gain numerous possessions as a link player. Up forward Dickfos booted another 3 goals and Brenton Saunders forward pressure netted him 2 goals to add to his second quarter goal. Ruckmen Nick Barling and Jadan Morton, both playing like old fashioned ruck rovers were able to negate their taller opponents then win plenty of the ball around the ground.

In the final quarter the Pies were keen to kick the first goal to put the contest to bed but Surfers were not done and booted 2 early goals to make all supporters nervous --the club is considering purchasing a defibrillator!! When Val Pope, who had been good all day, emulated Warnie with a vicious leg break after bursting through 50 and landing his kick right on the goal line, it looked like a sure goal and the would-be sealer, only to turn so sharply, it failed to even score.  Saunders then missed a gimme for him, the door was still open for the visitors. The tough contested football of the second half went up a notch and at one point there 5 ball-ups on a row in the centre of the ground as the tackling went into overdrive.

With the Pies 8 points in front late in time-on a misfired switch kick resulted in a Surfers goal and it was nail biting time again. The Pies hung on for the final 90 seconds with tough football and when the siren sounded with the ball on the Pies half forward line the home supporters were elated as well as breathing a sigh of relief. 200 gamer Tim McEvoy had a solid match and was chaired from the field among his jubilant team-mates and Magpie supporters.

A lot can happen in a week in football-last week the Pies were dejected and Morningside elated and this week it was the polar opposite. For Surfers they fight another day and the Pies meet PBC at Currumbin next Saturday full of confidence as they defeated the Lions down there by 8 goals mid season.

Senior Coach, Nathan Clarke had this to say after the game:

“In the end, we were really pleased with that. Surfers played really well.

We butchered the ball a couple of times, which we need to fix up before next week.

They were very good in periods, but I think after quarter time, we can feel comfortable that we played really well.

One thing that was getting us is that they were getting a lot of easy ball because our forwards were getting too high, so once we forced them to defend us more, we got into the game."

Crowd gathers around Clarke's 3/4 time address

Western Magpies 2.0 - 12 | 7.2 - 44 | 13.4 - 82 | 14.7 - 91

defeated

Surfers Paradise3.3 - 21 | 7.6 - 48 | 9.9 - 63 | 13.11 - 89

Best: Woods, Scott, Lewis, Jones, Dickfos, Easton

Goals: Dickfos 5, Saunders 3, Copland, Staker 2, D.Mitchell, Morton 1

24 Fit - Ressies Review

PIES RESERVES BOW OUT WITH BIG LOSS

The Western Magpies Reserves were given a football lesson by a slick Surfers Paradise team which is finals bound while the Pies finish in seventh place on the ladder--probably where they deserve to be after an inconsistent year.

In a match which the Pies had to win to give themselves a chance of reaching the five they rarely fired a shot and after quarter time were overrun by a fast and confident Demons outfit. As it turned out a win either last week or on Saturday would have seen the Pies in the finals but they just couldn't quite get it done last week, and were comprehensively outplayed this week.

It was as if the Pies effort to push Morningside last week took it out of them and they looked a deflated lot after quarter time on Saturday. The Pies went down by a 100 points in their worst defeat of the season, 6.7-43 to 22.11-143.

Blake McClennan returned after a week away and played a solid game in the middle of the ground and he has been a consistent player in the latter half of the season.

Ricky Dudley was carrying a niggle into the match and answered coach Craig Allen's plea to play and he was solid in defence and had plenty of work to do.

Hunter Heath had another good game on a wing and half back as did Aaron Maricic on half back who will have pleased the selectors with his effort and could be back in the Senior selection mix next week.

Likewise Richard Wenham, back from injury, who had a good game trying hard to give the Pies driveand Joe Murphycontinued his good form in the midfield since joining the club 4 weeks ago.

Western Magpies 2.2 - 14 | 3.3 - 21 | 4.4 - 28 | 6.7 - 43

defeated by

Surfers Paradise 6.1 - 37 | 11.3 - 69 | 18.8 - 116 | 22.11 - 143

Best: McClennan, Dudley, Heath, Maricic, Wenham, Murphy

Goals: Farrell 3, Hockley, Billing, De Nys

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