Gut Feelings XI - Brought to you by Regis Aged Care

• This week the Reserves get top billing for a superb win over the ladder leading Palm Beach-Currumbin. After a slow start conceding 4 goals  the Pies fought there way back into the game and trailed by 9 points at half time before dominating the second half.

• Due to the wet conditions the Magpies played pretty basic but effective football which harked back to a simpler time with minimal handball, long kicking forward to a contest and were able to create pressure on the Lions defenders. The pressure applied around the contest was about 200% compared to some of the Pies recent matches. Coach Kiran Verma and the selectors pulled a master stroke by moving key forward Jesse Hampel to CHB where he blanketed the Lions key forward and the inclusions of Redlands listed Matt Thomson and Liam Dwyer also lifted the Pies. The reserves now go into their match with Morningside with renewed confidence and with a stronger side will be keen to atone for a poor effort against the panthers earlier in the season. 

• Gut Feelings only has admiration for the Redlands listed boys who came back to QAFL Reserves football but both put in 100% effort . Matt Thomson is a 200 game player and lauded club captain at Redlands yet he came back to the Pies after illness and had to play reserves but he just got on with the job with three goals and applied plenty of pressure up forward. His reading of then play and clean skills were a delight to watch. Liam Dwyer has played more for the Pies than Redlands in recent seasons but had just came back from 2 matches in the NEAFL to find he was in Reserves due to match up considerations. He played up forward and just gave everything as usual and ran around like a new kid in his first game, also capping his day with 3 goals . He commented afterwards it was one of the most enjoyable games he had played in for a long time. 

• While on the Reserves, Isaac Bongaarts was named on the bench on Thursday night but had to drop out to make way for Matt Thomson. Isaac then played for the Woodsmen on Friday night and then buttered up on Saturday to do the running for both the Reserves and Seniors. Many players may sulk in this situation but Isaac showed great team commitment and he is commended for being a true team player. 

• The Seniors were in it until late in the second quarter when the Lions booted three quick goals to take a handy 4 goals lead into half time. The Pies miised inspirational skipper David Lewis after he hurt an ankle late in the first quarter. Davy was controlling play across half back when he was hurt and his reading of the play cut off many Lions attacks. The lions showed why they are undefeated with clean skills and were prepared to run to overlap and create the loose man and I suppose you can do that when you are playing with confidence and also believe the odd mistake will not be too costly. Good sides believe they can win from anywhere and the Lions showed they have another gear when challenged.

• Inside players like Ryan Harwood and Gareth Crawford were certainly notable outs given the boggy conditions against a quality PBC on-ball brigade.

• Young guns Riley Greene and Ethan Sivijs continue to impress with each outing and both show enormous poise  under pressure, especially as both patrol across half back. Both are also impressive young men who show respect for everyone involved in the club and are willing to listen and learn.

• Both have developed clean skills, attack the ball and contest fearlessly and generally make the right disposal decisions. Both have got to be in contention for a Rising Star nomination and Greene in particular must be in the running for the overall QAFL Rising Star Award given his consistency this season—he just needs a nomination, that’s all!

•  It was great having a chat to past players Leigh Barnes, Dean Pettis,  Billy Peirce and Matt Vowles on Saturday. They chatted about their time at the club in the 1980s and 1990s and they mentioned the tough times the club had in those days off the filed to make ends meet.  There mentioned snooker nights to raise money with a lot of people in attendance and interestingly it was Bill Peirce who would often win the snooker tournament. Rumour has it that Bill, by his own admission was not a great snooker player, would often win as he was a teetotaller!! Bill was also very popular as he would be the designated driver after many a Sherwood function. 

• Leigh Barnes played for a number of years for Sherwood and West Brisbane  (combined Western Districts and Sherwood) and coached West Brisbane Reserves in 1992.

• As told in this column earlier in the year, Leigh was inducted as a Life Member of the USAFL  after being involved for over 20 years  with the Golden Gate AFL  based in San Francisco.  Leigh said they have 5 clubs  in San Francisco which is g as many other clubs are based in far flung cities and have to travel a fair way to play. In the GGAFL he said they are flexible in numbers per side depending on availability but the aim of the game is to have a game whether it is 9 , 12, 15 or 18 a side  He says about half the players are American and the success of a club is based on the American numbers because Aussies often come and go. He said the Yanks love the camaraderie of the game and tthe fact they can play past high schooling college, which is where most US sports stop. And they have actually found a pie shop in the San Francisco area. 

•  Dean Pettis was club Treasurer in 1990 and also won the 1991 West Brisbane Reserves B & F. He said the club hung on for dear life back then and it was only the hard work and dedication of a diehard group that kept the club going. Social occasions were well attended to raise funds to keep the club afloat. 

• It was also good to see Life Member and past club President Matt Vowles at the footy and he had a good time catching up with fellow past players and reminiscing as above. The four checked the honour boards and came up with several names to fill in the gaps. So if you get a chance check out the honour boards and if you have a name to fill a space let President Andrew Thomson (president@westernmagpies.com.au) know and the club will check it out. The honour boards are updated at the end of every season and the gasps are slowly being filled in. 

• The Grey Magpies Awards this week were presented by Greg Adams , whose profile is below. Winners were Riley Greene in Seniors, Ben Jaenke-Cain in Reserves and Sam Mehari in Colts.

•  The prestigious BG Award this week was awarded to Brenton Saunders, whose recent form has been excellent. Saunders was for most of his career a smart small forward with good goal sense but coach Brydan Morgan has moved him to half back where he re-invented himself to be one of the Pies most consistent players this season. We may yet see him up forward in the latter half of the year.

• Young gun Bruce Reville would have his head in a spin at the moment as 2 weeks ago he was playing for the Magpies at Broadbeach then last week he played for the Brisbane Lions NEAFL against the Giants in Sydney and then weekend has been co-opted into the Redland NEAFL team to play Canberra at Manuka, guess they just make up the rules as they go, never mind his club side! Before that he was in the Queensland Under 18 team so he is building a nice collection of guernseys at the moment but he must surely wonder where he is at times!!  

• Greg Adams presented the “Grey Magpies”  Awards after the matches against PBC last week –below is a short profile of Greg and his involvement with the Magpies (courtesy of Shane Bridley).

“Just a  local kid who loved getting a kick” was how a modest Greg  ADAMS described his playing history with Sherwood Districts Football Club.”

 However Greg was indeed much more than that, and in the historical record of the Sherwood Districts/Western Districts Football Club – “In Black and White”, he was described as ‘pound for pound, probably the hardest , toughest player ever to play for the Club, highly skilled, and a great competitor, with a strength of character that rubbed off on his team mates’.

He was also named in the Top 50 Players for the Club over the First 50 Years.

Greg first played junior football for the Club in 1960, however he had to wait until U17’s in 1969 before he won his first Premiership for the club.

He Captained teams in U11’s, U13’s, U15’s, U17’s at Sherwood Districts, and U19’s at the neighbouring Western Districts Bulldogs club, before playing Senior Football for them at the age of 17 years

During his football career, Greg won 5 Best & Fairest Awards, along with 4 Most Consistent Player Awards, including a Queensland Junior Australian Football League Best & Fairest in 1970. A terrific effort for a player who played the game at its most physical limits.

Greg represented his state – Queensland as a footballer, playing U15 Schoolboys in 1967, then U17’s Schoolboys in 1968/1969 (Vice Captain)/ and 1970 (Captain).

 His Senior football journey took him to the Western Districts Bulldogs Football Club, the Goldfields League in Kalgoorlie, Western Australia, Wangaratta in Victoria, before returning to play out his career at Sherwood Districts, playing in the 1975 and 1979 Premiership winning Teams, and in between, Captain/Coached the 1977 Reserves Team to a Grand Final.

Despite living away from the area for many years (he lives in Scarborough) , Greg has always maintained his love for and contact with the Sherwood Districts/Western Magpies Football Club, regularly attending home games and Club Functions, and he currently retains that active involvement through The Grey Magpies – the Past Players & Supporters Association of the Club, as well as travelling from afar each Friday to work with a number of other past players, helping to prepare the playing grounds and surrounds for each home game.

Greg Adams – another great footballer and Clubman for the Sherwood Districts/Western Magpies Football Club.

•  Also caught up with Mitchell "Sharky" Stallard after the game on Saturday and had a chat. Sharks has had a good year at Redlands playing in defence and was able to get to the game as the Bombers had an early game at Metricon on Saturday. Sharky is finally injury free  and now playing consistent football which is great to see. he was a [popular player at the Pies and all who know him knew he oozed class and just needed a clear injury free run to demonstrate that. 

•  The Woodsmen have had 2 good victories in the past 2 Friday nights, with a strong win over cellar dweller UQ a fortnight ago with spearhead Matt Hockley snaring 5 goals (and about 9 behinds). Last Friday the Woodies defeated Yeronga-South Brisbane which was a vital victory over a side competing for the finals. The win just the pies 2 games clear in 5th place on the QFA Friday Night League Ladder.

•  The Woodmsen have a huge match on tonight at McCarthy Homes Oval at Chelmer when they host ladder leaders and premiership favourites Park Ridge. It would be great to see a large contingent of Magpie supporters wander down to see what should be a great game of football.

•  Dont forget to get your tickets to the Grey Magpies Sportsman luncheon with David Parkin as quest speaker. This weekend is last chance to secure your  ticket  so check the Western Magpies website or Facebook page for details. Cost is $90 per head for a lunch and drinks package from 11.30-2.30 then sit back and enjoy the Magpies play Sandgate. 

•  The fifth placed Colts have a huge game on Saturday against the fourth  placed Morningside. The Pies traill the Panthers by 4 points and a win will be important step in securing the Pies finals berth. Labrador are equal with the pies but play PBC this week so a win to the Colts will give them some breathing space. 

• The Pies are much stronger than when the sides met earlier in the season with the addition of Cade Scott, Sean Ryan, Noah Resuggan and Cam Ferguson among others, all who missed the first round encounter. 

•  The Magpies have two players in the Queensland under 17  in Darcy Prest and Jack Briskey. Queensland were defeated by NSW/ACT on Monday at Southport but no further details are available. Congratulations on both boys being selected in the Queensland team. 

• The QAFL have this week announced that Maroochydore will be promoted to the QAFL next season, making it a 10 team competition once again. with Noosa also a possible inclusion as soon as next year.

PLACE PREVIEW - PIES CONFIDENCE UP GOING INTO CRUCIAL MATCH

The Western Magpies, confidence restored after a strong win a fortnight ago, will be up for the contest against the fourth placed Broadbeach at Broadbeach in Round 12 QAFL action later today.

The Pies have made three changes  with Kale Reed and Harrison Kerr promoted after short Reserves stints and Aaron Highland returning after picking up a niggle in the interstate game vs SA. They replace the injured Drew Mitchell, Lachie Dennis unavailable and Zane Lovell back to the Reserves. 

The Pies retain exciting youngsters in ruckman Samson Ryan and classy winger Bruce Reville, both key players in the Pies' win a fortnight ago.

Ryan in particular gives the Pies midfield the first opportunity in the centre clearances which makes a huge difference to the Magpies forward entries. Ryan Harwood has 2 matches under his belt now and was back to his best last round with the maximum 10 Syd Guildford votes and Claye Beams is starting to show what Pies fans know he is capable. Will Fletcher is playing consistent football and is developing into a bull at the contest while Tom Baulch provided spark from a wing on his return to the side last round. 

With a return to availability of several key players for the Pies, coach Brydan Morgan has  freed up the game plan with the Pies happy to push the ball forward and if needed be to kick to  a contest in the 25 metre arc as well as playing possession football when the game dictates.

With Jack Austin developing with each game and Brody Lumber getting back to form the Pies have a couple of key targets to either mark the ball or force it to ground.  Lumber in particular has been taking plenty of strong marks, but will need to bring his kicking boots back to have a greater impact. Posessing a beautiful smooth kicking action, he’s stabbed at a few in recent weeks and his accuracy suffered - however, taking strong marks is the hard bit and Lumber is a beautiful set shot when relaxed.

The defence has been miserly all year and with Beams on half back playing a distribution role, Luca Winton having not lowered his colours since Round 1 and skipper David Lewis back to control proceedings across half back the Pies look solid in the back half. Brenton Saunders has-re-invented himself as a back pocket and Riley Greene has been strong for the Pies all year and must surely be close to a Rising Star nomination before too long.

The Pies must win this match if they want to play finals football this year and with a bounce in the step in the past 2 weeks they will be up for the challenge. 

QAFL Round 12: Western Magpies v Broadbeach at Broadbeach on  Saturday, June 29th at 2.00 pm

B: Luke Mitchell  Luca Winton Brenton Saunders

HB: David Lewis (Capt) Riley Greene, Claye Beams

C: Bruce Reville  Ryan Harwood  Tom Baulch

HF: Aaron Highlands Brody Lumber  Dan Edwards

F: Macauley Lonergan Jack Austin  Harrison Kerr

Rucks: Samson Ryan

             Jack Goodall 

Rover: Gareth Crawford

I/C: Ethan Sivijs, Will Fletcher, Riley Easton, Kale Reed

In: Kale Reed, Harrison Kerr, Aaron Highlands

Out: Drew Mitchell (inj) , Zane Lovell (Reserves) , Lachie Dennis (unavailable)

One 2 One Plumbing - Reserves Round 12 Preview

PIES RESERVES NEED TO BOUNCE BACK

Unlike their Senior counterparts, the Western Magpies Reserves will have been champing at the bit to get back into it and try for some redemption after a disappointing loss a fortnight ago. 

The Magpies had a strong team last round and did not produce, though there were several late changes to the side before they ran out. This Saturday's team is arguably stronger with key inclusions in Joel Workman, Zach Collison, Gabe McKinnon, Monty Vine  and  Ky Anderson. Another new name on the team list is Brady Allen who has returned after an early season sabbatical and he also adds to the Pies firepower and it is good to have him back. Previously a regular senior player he will add depth later in the year.

Anderson is a strong type and has been named in the best players in every match he has played for the Woodsmen and his one Reserves match. 

The Pies have swung Harry Marshall forward and Jesse Hampel moves to CHF and with Workman and Matt Mazarolle on the flanks the Pies half forward line looks strong. 

Gerard Moore leads the ruck alongside Monty Vine and will be looking to build on his quality run of good form, being named best on ground in his most recent 3 appearances. Jayden Gallagher gets a chance in the midfield and his strong body and raking left foot could be crucial for the Pies.

Rhett Lloyd will be better after his first match last game after crossing from Southport. He took time to settle in but will be better for the run  and the experienced Ben Jaenke-Cain adds to the midfield depth and he will want to play well to push his claims for a senior recall. 

Collison comes back to make up a strong half back line with youngster Hamish Campbell and the experienced Chris Hunt. 

Broadbeach are struggling this year after a Grand final appearance last year and the Pies won their earlier encounter comfortably but the ladder has Broadbeach 6th and the Pies 8th, so to keep their finals hopes alive the Pies will need a repeat result of Round 4.

QAFL Round 12: Western Magpies Reserves v Broadbeach at Broadbeach on Saturday, June 29th at 11.30 am 

B:  Peter Kilroy Gabe McKinnon Sam Hartog 

HB:  Chris Hunt  Hamish Campbell  Zac Collison

C: Aiden D’Roza Jordan Bonney Ben Jaenke-Cain  

HF:  Joel Workman  Jesse Hampel  Matt Mazarolle 

F:   Zane Lovell Harry Marshall Rhett Lloyd

Rucks:  Gerard Moore 

             Jayden Gallagher

Rover:   Rory Johnson

I/C: Isaac Bongaarts,  Monty Vine, Ky Anderson, Brady Allen 

CFMG Capital - Colts Round 12 Preview

A very strong looking Colts lineup heads down the highway to take on 3rd placed Broadbeach in a game where the Magpies will be looking to show their progress and improvement from earlier in the season when Broadbeach stunned them by 12 goals after a 7 goal to zip opening quarter.

The Magpies are a different looking side to Round 3, with huge inclusions such as Sean Ryan, Cade Scott, Charlie Thorpe, Jack Briskey, Jonty McDougall, Lawson Campbell and Darcy Prest to name a few!

It’s an incredibly strong looking engine room with Briskey, Prest and Ryan on the ball and Resuggan in the centre, with some serious midfield depth to push through the midfield including Cade Scott who has played several seniors games in 2019.

It’s a smaller looking forward line with the hugely impressive Jackson Paynter out and the big 2018 Premiership hero Cameron Ferguson who are both unavailable, but with the explosive pace and spring of Jonty McDougall, the marking power of Lachlan Davies and the experience of Lachlan Pearson who knows where the big sticks are, its a potent forward-line with plenty of avenues to goal.

Down back, the dash of Charlie Thorpe with his running power and penetrating kick will be a huge in for the Pies, while Whitlam Bishop will fill the key post in the goal square. The hard nut Lawson Campbell will no doubt find his way back there at some point, but has been released to a wing to start the game, and will come hard off the line.

Broadbeach shocked the defending Premiers back in Round 4 with an opening quarter that put the game almost completely to bed, so the Pies will need to be switched on from the opening bounce to avoid a repeat. With a raft of quality inclusions, the Pies are primed for the 2nd half of the season and will be looking to start their run here.

QAFL Round 12: Western Magpies Colts v Broadbeach at Broadbeach  on Saturday, June 29th at 9.30 am

 B: Brodie Gardner - Whitlam Bishop - Tyler Bobin

HB: Rory Edwards - Charlie Thorpe - Jacob Aurisch

C: Ritti Batilimoyo - Noah Resuggan (C) - Lawson Campbell

HF: Cade Scott - Lachlan Davies - Jonty McDougall

F: Lachlan Pearson - Cooper Crowell - Abu Kante

Foll: Jack Briskey - Darcy Prest - Sean Ryan

Int: Kelly Seimer - Byron Kohler - Jack Spry - Coleman Cornford

Gut Feelings X - Brought to you by Regis Aged Care Chelmer

• A big congratulations to the Sherwood Football Club for their efforts in raising over a $1000 for Ronald McDonald house in the recent “Pies for Pies” event Friday week ago. The “Pies for Pies” Pie Night and the players “Silly Socks” (worn by players and coaches) combined to raise the funds, so well done to the organisers and participants on a great  initiative—and the pies went down well from all reports!!

• A big 3 weeks coming up for the Magpies starting with this week’s trip to fourth placed Broadbeach to take on the Cats on the big expanses of Merrimac Oval then at home to undefeated Premiership favourites and fierce rival Palm Beach-Currumbin then off to Morningside to take on the second placed Panthers.

• The Pies are now looking a more settled side, have better availability of players and will be looking to push hard in the 2nd half of the year - starting with wins in all 3 matches.

• The Magpies relished the presence of 200cm+ ruckman Samson Ryan which enabled the midfield to be more pro-active in winning the ball out of the centre. The Pies have struggled in the ruck department for a few years and have  developed a lock down style of play in the midfield to try to even up the contest. It is attritional footy and takes its toll. However it was nice for the Pies to have a winning ruck and they did dominate the midfield contest against the Demons as a result

• Ryan, although only 18 years old, showed great maturity and he also advised some very experienced Pies on ballers where he wanted them at the ball ups and boundary throw ins and what role they should play i.e. you block and I will tap the ball to so-and-so.

• The Magpies' selectors now enjoy some depth in the Ruck department, with veteran big man Gerard Moore now established into footy for the year and hitting his straps, big G hasn’t played Senior footy in 5+ years, but has displayed fine form in the ruck in the Reserves in recent weeks. Moore, was Senior Co-Captain in 2013 as a 20 year old but after a stint in the AFL ranks with the Gold Coast Suns, and 2 Senior PRemierships with the Magpies he put footy on the back-burner to concentrate on joining the Police then irregular shifts confined him to the Woodsmen for a couple of seasons before returning to Reserves footy last year where he won the JB Medal for Reserves B & F after winning the Nipperess Medal for the Woodsmen B&F the previous season. He was scheduled for more footy earlier in the year before suffering a back injury in a car accident 6 weeks ago. Moore has been around for a while but is only 27 years old—well, for a couple more weeks anyway!! . He was a key player as a teenage ruckman in the Pies much celebrated upset Premiership victory over PBC in 2008., where he was easily the Pies best in the first half to keep them in striking distance for a famous win, and was also a Premiership player in 2012 playing at Centre Half Forward where his marking prowess was a key.

• Likewise a few big weeks for both the Reserves and Colts. The Reserves can’t afford too many slip ups in coming matches and will hope to kick-start their season with a win  over Broadbeach, a team they did defeat easily earlier in the year.

• Matches against PBC and Morningside won’t be easy but with the right attitude the Reserves have the talent to win all 3.

• The Colts have had a spluttering season so far but hopefully have recharged the batteries and with several older players filtering back to the line-up will be looking for a stronger second half of the season. They started poorly against Broadbeach earlier in the year  which proved the difference so a switched on performance is required this week if they are to turn the tables on the Cats.

• The Woodsmen are at home to UQ this Friday night and with the Red Lions without a win the fifth placed Pies will be favourites for the 4 points to maintain their  place  in the five but they have Yeronga-South Brisbane one game behind them and breathing down their necks. So it shapes as an interesting run towards the finals in coming weeks.

• For a great read then make sure you have a look at the "Magpie Chatter" Newsletter put together by "Grey Magpies" Convenor Shane Bridley.  The newsletter is placed on the Old Boys Facebook page and also sent to Old Boys via email. Two of the of the articles are re-produced below. If you are not on the email mailing list contact Shane Bridley on shanebridley@optusnet.com.au

• For the newer members of the club "Magpie Chatter" was a weekly newsletter produced by the club in the 1960s and 1970s. It seems the name "Grey Magpies" has stuck to become the nickname of the Sherwood and Western Magpies Old Boys Association. Not sure some of the recently retired players are too happy with that but I am afraid it looks like it will stick, certainly not appropriate for some - you need to have hair for it to be grey - (not mentioning anyone Chris Mihalopoulous!)

• Excerpts from this week’s Magpie Chatter  re-produced below.

  Hagley’s Heroes

  . At the home game against Surfers Paradise, we were all pleasantly surprised by the roll up of past players and supporters in attendance, especially the re-union of “Hagley’s Heroes” , a group of over 25 past players/supporters including a mixture of former Premiership winning – 2003 and 2005 Colts(U18’s) players, coached by Allan Hagley and assisted by Wil Ivinson and Mark Wysoszanski, who were all in attendance. Allan, Wil and Mark had played together since U13’s, and then coached various teams together.

  There is a great story on Hags in the ‘In Black and White” club history book, which is a history of the Sherwood Districts/Western Magpies Football Club from 1956 – 2011, and a ‘must read’ for all past players/supporters of the club.

  Hags travelled up from Melbourne for the day, to join a handful of those at the game who also played together in the 2007 Division 3 Premiership side coached by Hags (basically an ‘old boys’ side with a mixture of younger players who couldn’t commit to senior football).

  A number of other players at the re-union travelled from afar to be there, including Rohan Bail from the 2005 Colts Team, who went on to play over 70 Senior Games with Melbourne Football Club in the AFL Competition. Rohan travelled from Melbourne for the day, whilst Shaun Tapp (Vice Captain of the 2005 Colts Team and later a player for Glenelg in the SANFL)  travelled up from Adelaide for the weekend, whilst others travelled from Northern NSW, Middlemount and Dalby/Roma areas of Qld.

  The boys are hoping to make the gathering a bi-annual event, however no need to wait until then boys, put a table or two together for the Grey Magpies Lunch on Saturday, July 20th when the Pies host Sandgate and catch up with other past players from all eras of the Club.

Hagleys Heroes, other old boys from various era (and BM!)

Club Welfare Manager - Alistair Mitchell ran his second formal session with the playing group and coaches last week and discussed setting team values and behaviours that are non-negotiable for everyone involved in the club. 

He stated the values and behaviours have to be the same as the standards that players want to set each week and also must be consistent with the coach's directions for communication, training schedules , selection criteria and match day preparation. 

He spoke about the importance of developing the following values and behaviours to develop a good club culture which will then develop personal, team and club success. 

VALUES:

Mateship, Respect, Work Ethic, Enjoyment

BEHAVIOURS:

Training times and expectations for late arrivals; pre-training routine; change rooms (respect your home); general behaviours on and off the field; dress code for all games; pre-game routine; your own personal routine to match with the team expectations.

MINDSET BEFORE SKILL SET:

The mindset for success shows us how we think and is the new frontier of performance. The difference between the good and the great is the difference between your mindset and your skill set. 

Mindset separates the best from the rest!! The right mindset drives the right habits which drives the right performance

THINK AND ACT LIKE WINNERS ON AND OFF THE FIELD

BE THE CLUB EVERY ONE ELSE ENVIES

Gut Feelings IX - Brought to you by Regis Aged Care

• Jack Austin joined a rare group when he earnt his 2nd QAFL rising star nomination in as many seasons for his excellent game vs Surfers Paradise last week..

• JA got the gong in Round 1, 2018 vs Mt Gravatt in a year when he played 7 senior games, already eclipsing that with 8 in 2019.

• Ryan Harwood only took 1 game to get his groove back, when in just his 2nd outing of 2019 after a 12 week injury layoff he landed a perfect 10 votes in the Syd Guildford Trophy after a BOG performance vs Surfers.

• Other Magpies to poll were Riley Easton (6), Luca Winton (4) and Samson Ryan (2)

• Coach Brydan Morgan was elated with the victory as it keeps the Magpies in the finals race and maybe a little shudder is going through opposition camps going into the second half of the season.

• Regarding the match against the then second placed surfers Paradise, Morgan said  "We were playing for our season. It was a massive improvement. In recent matches we only had 5 winners on the day but when had 20 against Surfers and it is about even contributions". Morgan said the Pies now have a foundation to push toward finals football after the bye this weekend. Morgan said it was no coincidence the win came with captain David Lewis and reigning Best & Fairest Ryan Harwood playing together for the first time this season. Lewis bolstered the defence and Harwood was dangerous up forward then when into the midfield for a few short stints.  He said their presence was infectious and helps others grow around them. 

• Luca Winton further enhanced his reputation as one of the QAFL elite defenders with another accomplished performance on Saturday. The ex-Sherwood junior returned to the club at the beginning of last year after playing with some mates at Kedron and he has been a revelation. He arrived hoping to break into the Pies seniors in the pre-season last year with and he has just gone from strength to strength in his season and half at the Pies to be one of the first picked each week at selection. He keeps on getting a few votes each week in the Syd Guildford Award to be arguably the QAFL's most consistent player this season and at a guess will be leading in the Pies Bill Peirce B & F voting at this stage of the season after being runner-up in 2018.

• How's this for one of the Pies' legends-- Peter Kilroy took the opportunity in the previous round's bye weekend to fly to Reunion Island in the Indian Ocean off the coast of Africa  for a gig with his band  "Hey Geronimo". Reunion is a French Overseas Department and Killer says it was an interesting place to visit--"different" is how he described it.  He and the band had an interesting journey to get to and from there, flying via Dubai with travel times of 33 and 28 hours  with some long stopovers in Dubai. 

• Once again the "Grey Magpies", led by Shane Bridley and Terry O'Shea, arranged best player awards which were presented to the recipients by club legend Warren Selvage. The winners were debutant  Bruce Reville (Seniors), Rory Johnson (Reserves) and  Whitlam Bishop (Colts).

  Warren Selvage also made the guernsey presentation to exciting speedster Bruce Revklle before the match. Reville showed his class with a 20 plus possession game on a wing plus a goal and but his skills under pressure and decision making were first rate. If he does as well as Selvage's 9 premierships (8 in a row and coached 2 of them), 200 plus matches for the Pies and Life Membership as well as an AFLQ Recognition of Service Award he will have a pretty good footy career!

• Great to se plenty of players from the 2000s-- "Noughties"-- return last Saturday to swell the crowd. Colts  coach Alan Hagley (2002-03-04) and his assistant coach Wil Ivinson organised the reunion of Colts players they had coached in that period and they all had a great time as well as cheering on the Magpies. Hagley was a Queensland schoolboy representative then developed a reputation as a coach while still in his late 20s and coached the Magpies Colts to a flag in 2003. He had a knack of developing players and making them better as individual footballers and also as team and many went on to play Senior football for the Pies. It was great to see Hags  after a long absence and he held court with his ex-charges like he was coaching them again!!  Hags also coached the 2007 3rds Premiership side and along with Laurie Nipperess was instrumental in the Magpies having a 3rds for the 15th consecutive season in 2019.

• Rhys Bridge, who had a season with the Pies a few years ago before returning home to Cairns, played on a back flank for North Queensland in their clash with South Queensland which was a curtain raiser to the Suns v Saints AFL match on Sunday. 

• The only negative for last weekend was the Reserves loss. The Pies on paper had a strong team (before losing 2 key players before the game) but they did not come to play and poor skills and decision making resulted in a disappointing loss. The reserves competition at QAFL level is very strong and Gut Feelings knowledge and observations suggest many QAFL Reserves teams would be very competitive in many regional Victorian and southern NSW First grade competitions. Still, the Pies should have done better and now face a hazardous journey to make the finals after slipping a couple of games outside the five. Next weeks match at Broadbeach will decide to they continue in the finals race--against a side they defeated earlier in the year, a Pies win keeps them knocking on the door while a loss will make the equation much more difficult.

• The Woodsmen got out of jail with 2 late goals last Friday night against Mayne and the win sees them entrenched in fifth position but 2 games clear of the sixth placed Yeronga. The Woodies welcomed back the much decorated Chris Judson who in his 3rd game for the year was the pies best player.

• On a small field with a genuine ‘down hill’ end, the Woodies struggled in the first quarter and were scoreless, before making use of the ‘slope’ to bang home 7 straight goals in the 2nd quarter, including 3 to Club President Andrew Thomson to take control of the game.

• Mayne came hard late though and snatched the lead with a minute to play before ‘Juddo’ burst clear around the 50m arc and made no mistake as he ran into goal. A goal after the siren by irishman Sam Banim extended the margin to 10 points.

• In a bye weekend for the QAFL, the Woodies were the only senior side to play in the most recent weekend and it was a Saturday game Vs Marcoochydoore, a tough ask for a Friday night centric side to travel a few hours up the highway!

• They managed to cobble together 16 players, then got some help from local clubs the Jindalee Jags and Ipswich Cats to field a final 22 and put up an excellent account of themselves to go down by just 20 points against the defending premiers.

• Games like this really build spirit and culture, despite the loss. The Magpies/Woodsmen simply refuse to throw in the towel, while several other clubs simply opt to forfeit in similar circumstances.

• The Colts had an important win over the Surfers Sharks ( a combined Surfers Paradise and Southport  team). The Pies were challenged and in a tight see-sawing contest were  headed late in the game in what would have been an upset loss and a severe dent to the Pies finals hopes. As it was the Pies got the four points to sit in fifth  place on the ladder. They face a tough encounter against the third placed Broadbeach who defeated them comfortably earlier in the season but the Pies were slow out of the blocks in that match.  Coach Dallas Gallagher will stress to his team to have a good start against the Cats. 

• It was a classic ‘Pie Night’ at the club a few weeks ago, and with such a huge success the format will likely be repeated before the year is out.

• Details for the David Parkin Luncheon on July 20 have now been widely advertised, with invitations out. Be sure to secure your place as soon as possible!

Inaugural Grey Magpies Lunch - 20 July 2019

You are invited to the 2019 Past Players & Supporters

GREY MAGPIES LUNCH

VENUE: To be held in the Sherwood Districts/Western Magpies Function Room

DATE: Saturday 20th July 2019

TIME: The Lunch commences at 11:30am and will finish at 2:30pm.

DETAILS: Three Hour Food (Entree &Main) & Beverage Package

GUEST SPEAKER – FORMER VFL/AFL LEGEND – David PARKIN

Cost $90- Per Person (All Inclusive)

BOOKINGS: Tables of 8 – 10. Individual or Group Bookings Available

RSVP: By Friday 5th July 2019 (Book early to avoid disappointment) to:

The Grey Magpies on:  shanebridley@optusnet.com.au  or Mobile: 0423 051 899

PAYMENT: Direct Deposit to Bank Account. Payment in advance only (No payment on the day)

Bank: Bendigo Bank

Account Name: Sherwood Football Club

BSB: 633 000

Account Number: 151181682 (Reference: Your Full Name)

Sherwood Districts/Western Magpies Past Players & Supporters Association

THE GREY MAGPIES

McCarthy Homes QAFL Match Review - Magpies of old hit back hard

The Western Magpies found their mojo and their good old fashioned well renowned "hard at it football" to upset the second placed Surfers Paradise in Round 10 QAFL action before a healthy crowd at McCarthy Homes Oval at Chelmer on Saturday.

Two weeks is a long time in football as the Pies were obviously keen to get redemption after poor efforts in the past 2 rounds and they came out and hunted in packs and applied enormous pressure to the Demons to establish early ascendancy.

The Pies led from the first bounce and should have won by more than the 20 point final margin.

The win puts the Pies back in contention for a finals berth as the QAFL ladder tightens up under the clear ladder leaders Palm Beach-Currumbin.

The Magpies pressure was sensational and their tackling and 1 percenters was back to what the Pies have traditionally prided themselves on. 

The Magpies went to an early three goal lead  with Ryan Harwood a focal point at full forward but the Pies inaccuracy and wastefulness in front of goal, especially in the second quarter when they had a glut of possession but could only kick one goal for the quarter, kept the door ajar for the visiting Demons. 

The third quarter was a dogfight with the magpies again troubling the scorers with only one major and the demons closing the gap to a very nervous 16 points. 

With a home crowd swelled by a reunion of players from the mid 2000s  roaring the Magpies on they responded to take control in the final quarter to go to a 32 point lead with five minutes to go. Two late goals to the visitors closed the gap but in fact the Pies were the dominant team and should have won by plenty more.

Bruce Reville made an auspicious debut on a wing where his pace and footy nous gained him plenty of possessions to drive the Pies forward and he was named the "Grey Magpies" Best Player. Riley Easton was back to his terror like best continually harassing his opponents to win numerous turnovers while tall ruckman Samson Ryan got his hands on the ball to give the Magpies midfield first use of the football, 

Harwood is getting back to his best booting three goals for the Pies and also winning the hard ball in several forays onto the ball. 

Jack Austin ranged far and wide across half forward to have his best game for the Pies, taking plenty of marks and also working hard in several stints in the ruck. 

Luca Winton just keeps on getting better with another accomplished display in the last line of defence and in fact the entire Pies defence was first class and kept the Demons to three goals until late in the last quarter. 

Claye Beams had his best game to date for the Pies and now he is injury free will only get better in coming weeks, while Jack Goodall worked hard up forward, down back and sometimes in the ruck-- he is a very versatile and valuable player. Dan Edwards on a wing also continued his fine debut season to be another prolific ball winner.

The Pies have another bye this week before traveling to Broadbeach in a fortnight in what shapes as a crucial match then in what could be a blockbuster the Pies host ladder leaders Palm Beach-Currumbin at McCarthy Homes Oval at Chelmer. 

Western Magpies 3.2 - 20 | 4.7 - 31 | 5.10 - 40 | 7.16 - 58

defeated

Surfers Demons 0.3 - 3 | 1.6 - 12 | 3.6 - 24 | 5.8 - 38

Best: Easton, Harwood, Winton, Austin, Goodall, Beams

Goals: Harwood 3, Dennis, Lovell, Austin, Reville 1

Arabon Financial - Round 10 Reserves Review

PIES RESERVES IN DISAPPOINTING LOSS

The Western Magpies Reserves had a  disappointing 50 point loss to Surfers Paradise at McCarthy Homes Oval, Chelmer on Saturday.  

The named side on paper was arguably the Magpies strongest team for many seasons, but unfortunately this did not transfer to the field both in output and with 2 late outs.

Admittedly their Demon opponents looked a slick outfit for Reserves and their transition from defence to the forwards was precise--the exact opposite of the Pies ball use which was generally poor.

The Pies were defeated 19.10-124 to 10.14- 74 with only 5 less scoring shots than the Demons.

The Magpies delivery by hand and foot was plagued with skill errors, missed targets and poor decision making, with at least 8 of the Surfers Paradise goals gifted by the Magpies. 

The loss means the Pies are now a match outside the five with a bit of work in front of them to stay in the finals race.

Ruckman Gerard Moore was an exception to the rule with yet another fine display in the ruck, again putting his hand up for senior selection.

Harrison Kerr is getting back to form after a long layoff and gathered plenty of possessions in midfield, while Rory Johnson continued his good year to be named the "Grey Magpies" best player. 

Redlands listed Matt Thomson, a regular NEAFL player returning from injury, had a good second half, half forward Kale Reed put his hand up for a Senior recall with a typical bustling display and rover Cade Scott tried hard to lift his team-mates

The Pies travel to Broadbeach after the bye with a winnable match to keep them in touch with the top teams. 

Magpies 2.1 - 13 | 4.7 - 31 | 6.8 - 44 | 10.14 - 74

lost to

Demons 3.4 - 22 | 8.6 - 54 | 13.9 - 87 | 19.10 - 124

Best: Moore, Kerr, Johnson, Reed, Thomson, Scott

Goals: Kerr 3, Hampel 2, Reed 2, Arok, Jaenke-Cain, Moore

Anytime Fitness - Colts Round 10 Match Review

COLTS TAKE POINTS IN TOUGH MATCH

The Western Magpies Colts have won a narrow 4 point victory in a tough encounter with the Surfers Sharks at McCarthy Homes Oval, Chelmer on Saturday morning. 

The Pies had their nose in front most of the match but had to fight all the way before a goal late in the final quarter got them over the line, 7.11-53 to 6.13-49.

Unlike most outings this year, the Pies were on song early in the game to take a three goal lead into quarter time. 

The match then became an arm wrestle as the visitors clawed their way back and in a seesawing last quarter the Sharks hit the lead early before a goal to the Pies with 90 seconds left on the clock got them over the line.

The defence was well led by Whitlam Bishop at CHB (named the "Grey Magpies" best player) and Jack Spry in the last line of defence.

On baller Darcy Prest was again impressive and Noah Resuggan was a strong player in the centre. Jack Briskey did well in ruck and around ground and Sam Mehari was busy as usual in midfield and across half forward.

The Pies now sit in fifth on the ladder but face a tough challenge in a fortnight when they play the third placed Broadbeach on the Gold Coast. 

Magpies 4.3 - 27 | 5.4 - 34 | 6.7 - 43 | 7.11 - 53

defeated

Demons 1.1 - 7 | 3.7 - 25 | 5.11 41 | 6.13 - 49

BEST: Bishop, Prest, Resuggan, Briskey, Mehari, Spry

Goals: Kante, Kohler, Briskey, Davies, Crowell, McDougall, Smith

One 2 One Plumbing - Reserves Round 10 Preview

RESERVES BOLSTERED BY STRONG INCLUSIONS

The Western Magpies Reserves have been bolstered by the inclusion of ten quality players for their clash with the fourth placed Surfers Paradise on Saturday. 

In an embarrassment of riches, six players come back from the Seniors in Ben Jaenke-Cain, Cade Scott, Chris Hunt, Liam Dwyer, Kale Reed and Jayden Gallagher while Gerard Moore and Joel Workman return to the side afterinjury and unavailability.

Also in are ex-Redland captain Matt Thomson who is returning from injury and Rhett Lloyd, who has transferred from Southport to Aspley in the NEAFL and is now aligned to the Magpies. A strong midfield type, he originally hails from Claremont in the WAFL so will certainly boost the Pies in this game. 

With other class players in the team in Harry Marshall, Jesse Hampel, Rory Johnson and Harrison Kerr and hard working Jordan Bonney and Hamish Campbell, the Pies are well placed on paper.

A couple of weeks are a long time in football and it pours when it rains as the Pies in the past 4 matches were struggling for players due to injury or unavailability, and now have several missing out or pushing back to Friday nights. Reserves coach Kiran Verma will be licking his lips but the Demons Reserves are in fourth place on the ladder for a reason. 

The Magpies are in sixth on the ladder but only one match outside the five and like the Seniors, a win in this match will re-boot their season.

This will be a quality Reserves match and well worth the effort for supporters to get to McCarthy Homes Oval at Chelmer a bit earlier to enjoy a good day at the football. 

QAFL Round 10: Western Magpies Reserves v Surfers Paradise at McCarthy Homes Oval, Chelmer on Saturday, June 15th at 11.30 am 

B: Hamish Campbell  Harry Marshall   Finn Collison

HB:  Sam Hartog . Chris Hunt  Charlie Thorpe

C:  Jayden Gallagher  Jordan Bonney  Peter Kilroy

HF: Harrison Kerr   Gerard Moore  Joel Workman  

F:  Matt Thomson  Jesse Hampel   Kale Reed  

Foll:  Liam Dwyer  Ben Jaenke-Cain Rory Johnson

I/C: Cade Scott,  Matt Mazarolle, Aidan D'Roza,  Rhett Lloyd, 

Emerg: Deng Arok, Gabe McKinnon, Isaac Bongaarts

PLACE PREVIEW - MAGPIES RING CHANGES TO GET SEASON BACK ON TRACK

The Western Magpies selection committee have rung the changes in a bid to get the Pies season back on track, making 7 changes to the side well beaten a fortnight ago. In welcome news, 6 of the changes are unforced with several key payers returning from injury and only one going out (Aaron Highlands) in what is a change of fortune at McCarthy Homes Oval.

The Magpies, despite a 2-6 record and in 7th position are just 1 match out of the 5 and will be keen to upset the 2nd placed Demons who hold a 6-1 record so far.

Skipper David Lewis returns after 6 weeks out with a hand injury and looks in stunning condition after following a strong running program to rejoin the side in peak condition, ex skipper Drew Mitchell also returns from a 1 week injury with the bye coming at a good time to ensure he missed just the 1 game.

2018 Colts Premiership player and speedster Bruce Reville will make his senior debut to join in Allies U18 teammate Samson Ryan who returns to the Pies for his 2nd senior game after making an impressive debut in the ruck a month ago vs PBC before returning to representative duties.

Three other youngsters also return to the side with impressive 17 year old Riley Greene straight back in after missing with injury, 18 year old Jack Austin returning from a 1 match suspension and 19 year old Tom Baulch returns from Aspley.

With Ryan Harwood returning last round, the Pies will field arguably their strongest team of the season and Harwood will be better for the run as he will look to lift his midfield minutes in the coming weeks.

The Pies midfield looks particularly strong with a mix of hard nuts and some outside speedsters and the Pies will be looking to move the ball into the forward line much quicker than in recent matches to give their forwards a chance. 

The Magpies defence has been superb and at times stoic and have kept the team in the contest to late in games but it has been the Magpies inability to consistently hit the scoreboard that has been its achilles heel this year. 

The season is just about on the line on Saturday and back at home the Pies are very capable of causing the upset they need to stay in the hunt for a finals berth.

With the Pies getting back close to full strength, they will be raring to go in what should be a quality contest.

QAFL Round 10: Western Magpies v Surfers Paradise at McCarthy Homes Oval, Chelmer on Saturday, June 15th at 2.00 pm

B: Luke Mitchell - Luca Winton - Brenton Saunders

HF: David Lewis (C) - Riley Greene - Claye Beams

C: Bruce Reville - Ryan Harwood - Tom Baulch

HF: Lachie Dennis -  Brody Lumber - Dan Edwards

F: Macauley Lonergan - Jack Austin - Drew Mitchell

Foll: Samson Ryan -  Jack Goodall - Gareth Crawford

I/C: Ethan Sivijs - Will Fletcher - Riley Easton - Zane Lovell

IN: David Lewis, Riley Greene, Bruce Reville, Samson Ryan, Tom Baulch, Jack Austin, Drew Mitchell 

 Out: Aaron Highlands (injured), Ben Jaenke-Cain (Omitted), Kale Reed (Omitted), Jayden Gallagher (Omitted), Cade Scott (Omitted), Chris Hunt (Omitted), Liam Dwyer (Omitted)

Gut Feelings VIII - Brought to you by Regis Aged Care Chelmer

Gut feelings took an unfortunate hiatus for a few weeks due to extensive commitments, but we’re back with a bang this week!

• Congratulations to Aaron Highlands who played for the  Queensland team in their narrow loss against Adelaide Football League at Aspley on Saturday.  Highlands has been rewarded for his consistent play this season. He has versatility which was put to good use by the Queensland coaches as he can play at CHB, CHF and is also a fine ruckman to boot. He should be very proud to represent Queensland at a high level of football . He played well and enjoyed the experience and he booted a goal in the match. He will be an even better player for having played at the next level. Highlands is hard at the football and doesn't mind mixing it up with his opponents but with his baby faced smile has been dubbed the "Smiling Assassin" by a few Magpie supporters who are impressed with his robust style of football. 

• The Adelaide Football League, which was formerly known as the South Australian Amateur Football Association,  is the level below the SANFL and is a very strong competition with 69 clubs playing across 8 divisions. 

• Youngster Dan Edwards has been a shining light for the Magpies this season after stepping up from Colts last year where he was joint Maurie McNamee Medal winner in a premiership season. The Sherwood/Yeronga junior has been named in the Pies best in every match this season and deservedly was named as the QAFL's Rising Star for last round’s effort against Labrador despite playing  in a losing team. Edwards has a clean pair of hands and plenty of pace and has slotted into Senior football like he has been playing it for years. 

• The Magpies have a “Pies for Pies”  night on Friday 14th June. Pie nights are a great part of footy club culture and we’re re-launching at Sherwood at 5pm on Friday evening. This date coincides with the  AFLQ’s Ronald McDonald House Charity Round - so all profits from the night will be donated to Ronald McDonald House. We're also looking  to make this a regular event as a fundraiser for the club, so we'd love to see you there on the night!

• The Magpies were confident going into last round’s match with Labrador the weekend before last but again struggled on the big ground. The inability to kick goals came back to haunt the Magpies and this needs to rectified if they are to get back into the finals mix with a few victories. 

• Gut Feelings viewed the match review video from the Labrador game which is put together by Shane Melrose and coach Brydan Morgan which highlights parts of the match which the Pies could improve but also shows good features of play to reinforce learning.

• As Gut Feelings wrote a few weeks ago, a lot of work goes into coaching and game preparation by the coaching staff which most supporters would not realise. An incredibly professional approach in what is essentially a hobby for most coaches.

• The Western Magpies Indigenous Round pre-match ceremony a three weeks ago was sensational with Shannon Ruska, who dedicates himself to educating the community about indigenous history, lifestyle and customs, performing a "Welcome to Country" with explanations of the meaning of this in the traditional aboriginal custom. This was followed by a smoking ceremony by Donald and all was coordinated by popular Magpie former player and trainer and current junior coach Wil Ivinson.

• The guernseys for the indigenous Round worn by the players were designed by artist Jarred Lawton in conjunction with Magpies indigenous players Chris Hunt, Aaron Maricic and Ivinson  and was  brilliant and an explanation of the meaning of the symbols on the guernsey was on the Pies website and Facebook page last week and is also stitched inside the guernsey. These guernseys are available for purchase at a cost of $75 each, contact president@westernmagpies.com.au if you’d like to secure one

• While we celebrate the contribution of the indigenous players and community to our society and to our indigenous game of football, a recent reminder of the racial vilification that players have to endure was brought home several years ago with the racial vilification of Sydney Swans star Adam Goodes and which is now the subject of a movie length documentary which throws not a pleasant light on how poorly many indigenous players and people in general are treated.

•  The Magpies have been outplayed in all three grades in the past three rounds. In contrast to a month ago when the Pies, beaten by 43 points but in a brave effort at Currumbin, the Magpies Seniors were smashed up a three weeks ago by Morningside and were lucky inaccuracy from the Panthers let them off the hook. The Pies were then  overrun in the second half last week at Labrador in a reversal of the second half in round 2 when the Magpies dominated after half time and the Magpies had won in all 3 grades.

• The one good thing is that with a twist in the QAFL draw the Pies only have 6 weeks to wait for a chance to gain revenge over Morningside.

• Despite the results a three weeks ago, the  Sunday matches against Morningside  provided  a great day of high standard QAFL football with a good crowd at McCarthy Homes Oval and it was great to see a large contingent of Old Boys in attendance. While they were hoping for a better result they still enjoyed the football as well as catching up with mates from their playing days. As anyone will tell you the shared suffering and euphoria that football brings makes for life-long friends.

• Reserves coach Kiran Verma—“Special K”-- just keeps on giving to the Pies. He has played near to 200 matches in the Black and White and in past seasons whenever the Reserves were short he always put his hand up to help out and on many occasions was one of the best players. And this was often after he had played on the Friday night for the Woodsmen. He once again had to fill in a couple of weeks ago after injuries and unavailability affected the team selections. Oh, and by the way he lives on the Sunshine Coast and travels to training twice a week and then to games as well—he really is a “Special K”!!

• The Magpies haven't set the world on fire in the Syd Guildford voting in the past 3 matches with Luca Winton polling 4 votes, Aaron Highlands 2 votes and Lachie Dennis 1 vote against Labrador. Against Morningside Jayden Gallagher poling 3 votes and Luca Winton 1 vote and  in the previous match against PBC, Gareth Crawford polled 3 votes and remains equal seventh with 20 votes. Other Magpie vote getters at Currumbin were Jack Austin 2 and Luca Winton 1 vote.

• Luca Winton has been Mr Consistency at full-back this season and has often taken the big full forwards each week. He is undersized for the task but he has good closing speed and a good fist as well as strong hands in the marking contest. He was runner up in the Bill Peirce Medal  for club Best and Fairest last year but would be amongst the leading vote getters at this stage of the season. 

• The Pies had three debutants in the round against Palm Beach-Currumbin in Jesse Hampel, Samson Ryan and Cade Scott and they were presented with their guernseys in the rooms prior to the match by club legends Kevin Kluver, Craig St John and Des Lashman .This takes the number of debutants for the club to 15. This includes 8 players from the club ranks in Dan Edwards, Zane Lovell, Monty Vine, Jack Briskey, Hampel, Scott and Ryan.  New players to the club are Brody Lumber, Claye Beams, Tom Baulch, Harrison Kerr, Riley Greene,  Macauley Lonergan and Jayden Gallagher. the exciting Bruce Reville will also debut this weekend for the Pies after playing in a Colts Premiership in 2018

• The Colts were overrun by Morningside a fortnight ago  by a bigger  team. The Pies fielded only 5 players from last year Premiership team and have 5 top age players with the rest of the team at the younger end of the age spectrum.  Against Labrador they again started slowly and found the fluky wind conditions difficult to handle . After three tough matches they welcomed the break last weekend .They are still well in the mix for finals and this will be invaluable in their football development. One player to watch is Jackson Paynter,  a tall and strong looking player who impressed in the past two matches with his leap and ruckwork as well as being  a key forward.

• Don’t let recent results fool you though, with more 13+ Colts aged players playing across the Seniors and Reserves - there is extraordinary depth in the under 18 age group at the club.

• Any Western Magpies supporters who ventured up to Aspley last Saturday to watch the Queensland v Adelaide FL match  were also able to have a look at six of the Magpie players  who play in the NEAFL.  Aspley defeated  Redland at Graham Rd with  Aspley skipper Jackson Allen on a back flank with Doug Lawrence at CHB named one of the Hornets best players. Tom Baulch was named 23rd player for the Hornets.

• Redland featured Mitch Stallard in the back pocket, William Johnson on a HFF and Caleb Franks as ruckrover/onballer. Ex-Magpie skipper Callum Carseldine was unavailable for Aspley after playing some good footy in recent weeks.  

• The Australian Under 18 championships started on the weekend with the Allies well beaten by Vic Country in Hobart. In the Allies team (combined Qld/NSW/ACT/Tas/NT team) were Western magpies Colts players Bruce Reville (originally from Maryborough)  and Samson Ryan (originally from Pambula via Toowoomba). Neither was named in the Allies best as the combined side struggled to match a Vic country team keen to atone from a winless campaign last season. The Allies have a bye this week then play Western Australia in Adelaide on June 22,  Vic Metro at Geelong on June 28 and then South Australia  at Marvel Stadium in Melbourne on July 3.

• In other representative news the Magpies have 2 boys in Jack Briskey and Darcy Prest in the QLD U17 side and at the recent State U12 Championship, 3 more young Magpies made the state U12 side in Jack Harrison, Jack Slater and Jacob Edwards.

• The Pies Old Boys group, the Grey Magpies, have announced a great event for the Magpies with a Sportsmans Day on Sat 20 July with AFL great, Hawthorn Premiership captain and coach and Carlton premiership coach (that’s a distant memory, Blues fans!!). The resurrection of the Old Boys has been driven by Shane Bridley and Terry O’Shea, 1970s premiership players for the Pies. Shane lives on the Sunshine Coast but has been a driving force in resurrecting the “Grey Magpies” and reaching out and contacting many past players and officials. The result of this was seen on Sunday with a many past players attending the match against Morningside.

• This event will be well publicised in coming weeks

Anytime Fitness Rocklea - 100 Senior Games for Chris Hunt

Chris Hunt has had to wait a fair while to notch up his 100th Senior Game for the Western Magpies, stranded on 99 since 2017 when he was struck down by persistent injury.

Hunty was one of the first player selected from 2013-2017 and its a credit to him that he’s fought his way back . Last year he played Reserves for most of the year to be one of the leading players in the Pies rise to the semi-finals.

Chris started his football in Cairns before travelling to Brisbane to complete his secondary education at St Peters Lutheran College at Indooroopilly and he played in the QLD U15 side with fellow Magpie Gerard Moore

He joined the Magpies in 2009 and played under Des Lashman in the Colts heartbreaking 1 point loss to Morningside in the Grand Final at Coorparoo.—no-side had got near the Panthers that year and the Pies almost caused the upset of the season!!  Chris played at CHB that day and was the Pies best player in the Grand Final. He also played 6 Senior games for the Magpies in 2009 when they played in the Velocity Sports Cup State League.

He was recruited by Morningside for one season in 2012 to try his luck at NEAFL level. This decision ultimately cost him a chance to play in the Magpies 2012 premiership victory over Palm Beach-Currumbin. He saw the light and returned to the Pies in 2013 and has been a fixture ever since. He has had his issues with injury over the journey so it has taken some time to reach his 100 game milestone.

He was runner up to Ben-Jaenke-Cain in the 2014 Bill Peirce Medal after a consistent season in defence.

Hunty is renowned for his clean ball handling skills and reading of the play. His decision making is also excellent, capped off by a very penetrating kick. He is equally good against tall or short---his closing speed is exceptional so he can close down smaller opponents or get to a marking contest. His judgement is also a highlight--he just makes the right decision on when to punch or mark.  Across half back he can turn defence into attack and despite reaching veteran status, still has plenty of pace.

Hunty is also just a good bloke to have a round a footy club. He brings a sense of calm when needed and his presence at the Magpies has been the club’s gain. He never whinges and he happily played in Reserves for most of last year when he may have thought he was worth a Senior game--no complaints from Hunty!! All up he has played 153 matches for the Pies—99 Seniors, 38 Reserves and 16 Colts matches in his 10 years at the club, and also thrown in a few for the Woodies in the past 2 years due to work commitments not allowing him to play on a Saturday

So from all at the Magpies heartiest congratulations to Chris on a well deserved  if albeit belated milestone of 100 Senior games for the Magpies!

Place Preview - QAFL Round 9 - Crunch match for Magpies

The Western Magpies welcome back 2018 Bill Peirce Medallist Ryan Harwood for his first match of the season and it could not come at a better time as the Pies face a season defining crunch match against a Labrador team in a similar position. 

Unlike most competitions, there are no easy matches in the QAFL and at the half way mark of the season this match shapes as he classic ‘8 point game’ for both teams. 6 v 8 may not raise the eyebrows of those not in the know but this will be a top class affair with so much on the line. 

Also in are promising young ruckman Samson Ryan, who impressed on debut a fortnight ago and "almost a veteran" in Chris Hunt, whose consistent Reserves form earned him a long awaited recall to the Seniors after over a season since his last appearance in the top grade.

Drew Mitchell and another promising youngster in Riley Greene both miss with injury and Jack Austin misses with a 1 match suspension after being reported for what appeared a solid ball and all tackle last week.

The Pies have re-gathered themselves after a disappointing loss last week and training has lifted in intensity this week and coach Brydan Morgan has been pleased with the attitude of his charges, many of whom have put in extra preparation during the week to make sure that are ready to bounce back to the winner's list.

Claye Beams had has best game for the Pies last week and with good mate Harwood back in expect him to lift further. it may take a few more weeks but these two will become a dynamic duo in coming weeks for the Pies. 

Samson Ryan gives the Pies a lift in ruck as the lion-hearted but undersized Liam Dwyer has battled gamely against bigger opponents and will welcome a partner to share the load. 

Will Fletcher has been solid on the ball and Dan Edwards has been one of the most consistent players this season. The 18 yo Edwards and somewhat older Gareth Crawford have been excellent for the Pies this year and both will be called on again on the large Labrador oval to win the midfield ball and drive the Pies forward.

Jayden Gallagher and Luca Winton held the fort last week in the backline and will welcome Aaron Highlands back to the key CHF post.

The Pies struggled up forward last week and will be looking for quicker ball into the forward line to provide space for Brody Lumber and Jack Goodall to lead to and use their height in one-on-one contests.  

The Pies up-tempo training  this week indicates they are up for the challenge and expect a ferocious response after last week. The Pies record at Labrador is pretty good and a win will put the Pies back on course at the half way mark of the season. 

QAFL Round 9: Western Magpies v Labrador at Labrador on Saturday, June 1st at 2.00 pm. 

B: Jayden Gallagher   Luca Winton  Ethan Sivijs

HB: Luke Mitchell  Aaron Highlands Claye Beams

C: Ben Jaenke-Cain Will Fletcher   Dan Edwards

HF:  Lachie Dennis Jack Goodall (Capt)  Kale Reed 

F:  Brenton Saunders Brody Lumber   Ryan Harwood

Rucks:  Samson Ryan

             Gareth Crawford 

Rover:   Riley Easton

Int: Liam Dwyer, Chris Hunt, Macauley Lonergan,  Cade Scott

In: Ryan Harwood, Chris Hunt, Samson Ryan

Out: Drew Mitchell, Riley Greene (both injured), Jack Austin (suspended) 

Sci Fleet Taringa - Reserves Round 9 Preview

RESERVES IN CRUCIAL MATCH AGAINST TIGERS

Like their Senior counterparts, the Western Magpies Reserves will be keen to bounce back after a disappointing loss last week.

In a crucial match for the Pies finals' aspirations, they welcome back youngsters in Sam Hartog, Mitchell O'Dea and Aiden D'Roza and also new player in Ky Anderson, a solid midfielder who has been the Woodsmen's best player in the past 2 matches after arriving at the club 5 weeks ago and finding his feet at his new club. His form in recent weeks has been outstanding and he should do well at this level. Hartog has been hampered by injury, but we know he can play as he was in the seniors for a number of matches last year. 

On the debit side the Pies lose the experienced Gerard Moore due to work commitments although he will bolster the Woodsmen on Friday night --he was likely in serious consideration for a Senior recall but instead will continue to build match fitness in the QFA competition where the standard continues to rise.

Chris Hunt gets a well deserved Senior recall while Monty Vine misses through suspension.

In the past few weeks  youngsters in Jordan Bonney, Charlie Thorpe, Hamish Campbell have been consistent performers, while first gamer last week Jacob Aurisch had a solid performance . Rory Johnson is enjoying a fine season and Zane Lovell will be better for the run last week after missing a few weeks with injury.

Redlands listed Harrison Kerr will also be better for his run last week after a long injury lay-off and Jesse Hampel  will hope for more forward opportunities to use his pace and height to advantage.

The Magpies are 3-4 win-loss as are their opponents so this shapes as a crucial mid-season match. 

The Pies attitude was also good this week so they will be enthused for the challenge on Saturday. 

QAFL Round 9: Western Magpies Reserves v Labrador at Labrador on Saturday, June 1st at 11.30 am. 

B: Aiden D'Roza Finn Collison  Sam Hartog

HB:  Zac Collison  Harry Marshall  Hamish Campbell

C: Mitchell O'Dea   Jordan Bonney Charlie Thorpe

HF:  Jacob Aurisch  Matt Mazarolle  Chris Jenkins 

F:  Harrison Kerr Jesse Hampel Deng Arok

Rucks:  Gabe McKinnon

             Rory Johnson

Rover:   Zane Lovell

Int: Harrison Radcliffe, Peter Kilroy, Ky Anderson, Isaac Bongaarts 

Emerg: Sean McEvoy 

Harvey Norman Oxley - Colts Round 9 Preview

KEY OUTS AS COLTS FACE DANGER GAME

The Western Magpies Colts welcome back premiership skipper Noah Resuggan for their all important clash with Labrador on Saturday morning.  Resuggan returns after missing a month with injury and will be joined by strong defender Lachlan Pearson, tall forward Coleman Cornford  and speedy winger Ritti Batilimoyo.

On the debit side the Pies will be missing several key players in Jack Briskey, Sam Mehari, Ethan Mooney and Jonty MacDougall. The Pies are 3 and 4 on the win-loss ledger and clinging to fifth on the ladder with Labrador one game behind them and with recent good form. The Pies won the round 2 encounter comfortably but will need to be on guard in this match, especially on the big Labrador ground.

Other key players for the Pies will be key forwards Jackson Paynter and Cam Ferguson and key defenders Whitlam Bishop and Lawson Campbell, all who have been in good form this year. Paynter in particular was a shining light last week and matched the physicality of Morningside and will need to lead the Pies once again

Brodie Gardner had a good game on the wing and Rory Edwards has been consistent this year.

The Pies will need to bring their A game from the first bounce if they are to return to the winners list and stay well placed in the five.  

QAFL Round 9: Western Magpies Colts v Labrador at Labrador on Saturday, June 1st at 9.30 am

B: Tyler Bobin  Lawson Campbell  Lachlan Pearson

HB: Tom Evans  Whitlam Bishop  Jack Spry                                           

C:  Ritti Batilimoyo   Rory Edwards Brodie Gardner

HF:   Morgan Smith Jackson  Paynter  Cooper Crowell

F:  Coleman Cornford Cam Ferguson  Noah Resuggan

Rucks:  Lachlan Davies

             Darcy Prest

Rover:  Abu Kante  

Int:   Claydes Doyle, Xavier Jeffrey

McCarthy Homes Mach Reviews - Morningside return the favour in tough weekend for Magpies

Only late in the 2018 Season the Magpies traveled to Morningside taking a clean sweep in all 3 grades, including a dominant 100 point victory in the senior game. Less than 10 rounds later and the Panthers turned up at McCarthy Homes Oval and returned the favour with strong wins in all 3 grades on what was a fantastic day for football. It was Sir Doug Nicholls Round, and the Magpies donned their custom guernsey for the occasion, the field was prepared wonderfully, there was a big crowd and the match had a fantastic prelude with a traditional ‘Welcome to Country” from Shannon Ruska and a great smoking ceremony, arranged and hosted by the Magpies own Wil Ivinson.

Senior Report

It is not often that the Western Magpies are out-tackled and out-muscled but that was the case in Sunday's QAFL Indigenous Round clash with Morningside before a healthy crowd at McCarthy Homes Oval at Chelmer.

With a good number of past players in attendance the Pies started well enough and it was a tough opening quarter with the first goal of the match not coming until time on in the first quarter. In perfect football conditions it was a war of attrition for the first half but the signs were ominous for the Pies as they found it hard to clear the ball from the contest and  were blanketed up forward.

However despite their poor first half showing, the Magpies found themselves just 13 points down at the main break and every chance to turn their fortunes around with a big 2nd half effort.

Sadly it never came and inaccuracy in front of goal by Morningside was the saving grace for the Pies but with only 3 goals by three quarter time in perfect conditions it was only the most optimistic of Magpie supporters who thought the home team could all of a sudden kick 5 goals to snatch a last gasp win. And so it came to pass but in reverse as the Panthers put an exclamation mark on their dominance to totally control the last quarter to inflict an emphatic 52 point defeat on the Pies, winning 11.22-88 to 5.6-36.

The Magpies matched the intensity of the Panthers for a quarter and a half but were out-hunted by the Panther pack after that and everytime the Pies won a close in ball they were harassed and tackled and this resulted in some rushed disposals and turnovers the further the match progressed.

The Magpies also found it hard to penetrate the Morningside defensive wall and probably tried to pick their way through  with handball and short passes but skill errors often occurred  due the relentless pressure and they were back on the defensive very quickly.

The loss puts the Pies at 2-5 and a game outside the top five with a crucial encounter on Saturday at Labrador.

Youngsters Jayden Gallagher, Dan Edwards and Riley Greene were shining lights – defender  Gallagher worked hard to stem the tide in his best game for the Pies and his long clearing kicks were a highlight of his game;  Edwards  was a bright light with his pace  breaking the lines while Greene also worked hard down back and then when moved forward led well to give the Pies a target. Luca Winton also worked overtime in defence, Claye Beams had his best game to date and Will Fletcher was possibly the only Pies midfielder not to lower his colours on the day.

The Pies will be looking for the return of several key players in coming weeks and need t stay in touch with a win this week vs Labrador.

Magpies 0.2 - 2 | 2.4 - 16 | 3.5 - 23 | 5.6 - 36

Panthers 2.6 - 18 | 3.11 - 29 | 5.16 - 46 | 11.22 - 88

Best: Gallagher, Edwards, Greene, Winton, Beams, Fletcher

Goals: Dennis, Austin, Edwards, Highlands, Beams

RESERVES REPORT

The Western Magpies Reserves were well beaten by a strong Morningside team on Sunday. The Pies, comprising a majority of teenagers with a smattering of old hands were competitive until halftime but the bigger bodies and greater experience of a Morningside team with a large contingent of experienced players began to exert their influence after halftime to overrun a tiring Magpies team.

The first quarter was a high quality Reserves match but in warm weather the Magpies struggled to match it with the Panthers the longer the game went on and the standard did slip a bit later in the match.

The Magpies were outscored 9 goals to 1 goal after half time to go down 14.16-100 to 3.14-32, though inaccuracy also cost the Pies any ability to exert scoreboard pressure.

The first quarter looked reasonable for the Magpies with the first goal straight up with a centre clearance and pass to the leading Jesse Hampel followed by the first goal of the match promising much but this was possibly the highlight of the Magpies’ afternoon.

Best players were rover Rory Johnson who won plenty of contested football, the experienced onballer Chris Hunt and ruckman Gerard Moore were both tireless around the ground, consistent defender Zac Collison, who tried hard to hold the defence together, young centreman Jordan Bonney ran all day and Colts aged player Jacob Aurisch was impressive in his Reserves debut.

Such is the injury crisis at the Pies, coach Kiran Verma again had to suit up to get the Pies to 21 for the game, putting them behind the 8ball from the start.

The Pies have a big challenge this Saturday as Labrador appear to have improved from their round 2 encounter so this is another crucial match.

Magpies 1.1 - 7 | 2.8 - 20 | 2.11 - 23 | 3.14 - 32

Panthers 2.5 - 17 | 5.7 - 37 | 8.12 - 60 | 14.16 - 100

Best: Johnson, Hunt, Z.Collison, Moore, Bonney, Aurisch

COLTS REPORT

It was a costly slow start for the Magpies as they were well beaten by Morningside on Sunday but the tone of the match was set early with the Panthers booting the first 4 goals of the match before the Pies had turned the ignition key.

From then on it was catch up football and the further the match went the Pies slipped further behind to go down by 63 points, 14.9-93 to 3.11-29. The Pies lifted their intensity in the second and third quarters and matched the panthers but could not exert scoreboard pressure and were made to pay for missed opportunities as the Panthers  were more productive when they went forward.

The Magpies were well beaten in the final quarter as the effort in trying to catch up in the warm conditions took their toll.

Best player was the smallest in Sam Mehari who buzzed around and tried to lift the Pies, while Jackson Paynter impressed, firstly at CHF then in the ruck. His high leaping  at the ruck contest was a highlight and he looks a likely type for the Magpies. The consistent Whitlam Bishop and Lawson Campbell had their work cut out  across half back and they repelled Morningside on numerous occasions while midfielders Brodie Gardner and Rory Edwards worked hard around ground.

The young Magpies will want to return to the winners list against a now dangerous Labrador on the coast on Saturday

Best: Mehari, Paynter, Campbell, Bishop, Gardner, Edwards

Goals: Crowell, Briskey, Ferguson

Sir Doug Nicholls Round @ The Magpies

The Magpies host Morningside at home on Sunday 26 May to celebrate Sir Doug Nicholls Round in what promises to be a fantastic community event!

The Senior game will be preceded by a “Welcome to Country” from the traditional custodian of the land Uncle Des Sandy and then the players, umpires and coaches will take part in a traditional ‘Smoking Ceremony” conducted by Greg Duncan, also a traditional custodian.

The Magpie Senior side will wear special one-off guernseys based on original art created by artist Jarred Lawton and commissioned by current player Chris Hunt.

The meaning of the art is nicely presented inside the neck of the guernsey with the following:

Culture: The centerpiece with the Magpie is surrounded by the yellow golden dots represents the sun rising, the magpies proud singing in the mornings is to remind the people of their important role in creation. The mining town of Coolgardie means "magpie" in the Goldfields Aboriginal dialect.  The yellow dotted circle is used to indicate the meeting place were our ancestors got together. Around the outside there is U shape symbols represent women and men meeting together.

Honour: The black and white dotted design represents the Western Magpies Powenyenna Oval. The footprints walking towards the field represent the fans, friends and family coming to watch the Magpies. Footprints coming from the left and right

Emotion and connection: The four black single feathers represent our ancestors, even though they are gone we are ready to take on the responsibility of sharing culture in some way or form. The Magpies position is that it is about to take flight, it is painted this way is to represent the teachings passed down to us and what we take with us.

Journey and respect: The white curvy patterns with diagonal lines crossing on the inside coming from the left and right side of the design to the yellow dotted circle are the billabongs where our generations before us shared their stories, educated their young, fed our people and raised our people. An important part of culture is respecting those past, present and emerging.

The host MC will be Magpie stalwart Wil Ivinson, a man of immense integrity and history with the Pies and in keeping with the day he has both Aboriginal and Islander blood with his mother from the Wakka Wakka tribe whose traditional lands were from just north of Brisbane up to the Gayndah area and his father also having both Aboriginal and Islander heritage with his ancestors from the Murrinh Patha tribe from near Wadeye in the NT and from Mer Island (Murray Is)  in the Torres Strait.  ‘Tracker’ as he is often known has played for the Magpies since the late 90’s and as recently as 2014, has coached Colts to Premierships, been a long term trainer for various senior sides (and AFL clubs as well) and is a current junior coach at the club.

The Australian Rules Football community celebrates the Sir Doug Nicholls Round this weekend across the country. Nicholls was a pioneering indigenous player who played in the 1930s and was somewhjat of a trail blazer but he suffered racial vilification playing football. He was a great Austrlaian and was the Governor of South Australia in the 1970s, AFL clubs have embraced this round in spectacular fashion with the wonderful Dreamtime at the G a headline cultural event, not just a game of footy. It must also be said that the guernsey designs and the stories behind them are also a wonderful part of the weekend.

The Magpies home ground has also been prepared beautifully for the occasion thanks to our winderful band of volunteers who prepare the surface week in week out, all former players in Des Adams, Lindsay Jefferson, Rob Lawson, Bruce O’Neill, Greg Adams and Kevin Kluver.

It’s not just the senior games celebrating the round either, with the Magpie juniors hosting games on Saturday with some fantastic celebrations.

Yeronga & Sherwood U11’s

Former champion player and Best & Fairest winner Dean Parkin is also doing wonderful things for Sir Doug Nicholls Round, attending the Dreamtime at the G game with club legend Chris Mihalopoulous.

Parkin is heavily involved in the Uluru Statement from the Heart and its call for a first nations voice in the constitution. Dean is a Quandamookam man from Minjerribah (aka North Stradbroke Island) and represented the Magpies with distinction in the early 2000’s. An article on his efforts featured in the Australian Financial Review on Thursday.

Place Preview QAFL Round 8 - Key Inclusions Bolster Pies for Sir Doug Nicholls Round

The Western Magpies have made several key inclusions for their crucial QAFL Round 8 clash against Morningside at McCarthy Homes Oval, Chelmer on Sunday. 

In the QAFL Sir Doug Nicholls Round (Indigenous Round) the Pies welcome back key playmakers Claye Beams, Riley Easton, Luke Mitchell and Ben Jaenke-Cain. Beams has yet to hit his straps as yet but after an early season thigh injury restricted his mobility he has returned to full fitness and is ready to put his stamp on a big game for the Pies.

Easton will lift the midfield intensity and Mitchell impressed with his clean ball skills a fortnight ago after missing 7 weeks with injury then out last week with work commitments. 

Out are Samson Ryan who joins the Allies for the Australian Under 18 Championships and Jesse Hampel, Rory Johnson and Harry Marshall to the Reserves after all did well in their Senior stints. 

Brody Lumber will be better for the run last week after missing for 3 weeks and is finally settled into Brisbane and training regularly, which will only help his form. With Jack Austin and Jack Goodall in good form present a strong tall forward line which should trouble the Morningside defence. Drew Mitchell returned to form in the past 2 matches and Gareth Crawford was again a workhorse in the middle of the ground and will be called on again to win the contested ball. 

Aaron Highlands has been selected at CHB but could also shift forward if needed and Beams off a back flank could be a key launching pad for the Pies. Luca Winton does not play a bad game and Riley Greene has been a consistent performer and shows maturity beyond his 17 years. 

This is a crucial match for the Pies as they will want to stay in touch with the double chance and be in a position to push for a top two finish when they get back to full strength in the latter half of the season

 QAFL Round 8: Western Magpies v Morningside at McCarthy Homes Oval, Chelmer on Sunday,  May 26th at 2.00 pm 

B: Jayden Gallagher Luca Winton  Riley Greene

HB:  Claye Beams Aaron Highlands  Brenton Saunders

C: Macauley Lonergan Drew Mitchell  Dan Edwards

HF:  Lachie Dennis Brody Lumber Kale Reed 

F: Luke Mitchell Jack Goodall (Capt) Jack Austin

Rucks:  Liam Dwyer

             Will Fletcher

Rover:   Riley Easton

Int: Gareth Crawford, Ethan Sivijs, Ben Jaenke-Cain, Cade Scott