Showdown ... Travis Boak celebrates a huge win for Port Adelaide.Source: Simon Cross / News Limited
A third-quarter fightback by Port Adelaide set the stage for a stunning late show that saw them claim Showdown honours by nine points.
Adelaide had no answer to the Power onslaught, going down 17.16 (118) to 16.13 (109).
Travis Boak was adjudged best on ground with 30 disposals; a figure that was matched by Kane Cornes while Justin Westhoff booted four goals.
Adelaide led by five goals mid-way through the third term before the Power put their foot down and drew level at the siren before running away with a solid victory.
A Patrick Dangerfield goal on the siren brought the margin into single digits which was arguably flattering for the Crows.
Port Adelaide now sits 3-0 and travels to the Gold Coast next week while the 1-2 Crows host the Western Bulldogs.
Hot game ... Sam Mitchell gets a kick away against the Eagles.Source: Paul Kane / Getty Images
Lance Franklin and Cyril Rioli combined for nine goals to guide Hawthorn to a convincing 50-point victory over West Coast in Sunday's AFL clash at Patersons Stadium.
1.3 (9)
Q1
6.1 (37)
6.6 (42)
Q2
11.2 (68)
12.6 (78)
Q3
15.7 (97)
15.8 (98)
Q4
23.10 (148)
Josh J. Kennedy
5
Lance Franklin
5
Jack Darling
3
Luke Breust
4
Josh Hill
3
Cyril Rioli
4
Jamie Cripps
1
Grant Birchall
2
Andrew Embley
1
David Hale
2
Andrew Gaff
1
Bradley Hill
2
Callum Sinclair
1
Jarryd Roughead
2
Shaun Burgoyne
1
Isaac Smith
1
P
W
D
L
%
Pts
1
Essendon
2
2
0
0
255.08
8
2
Port Adelaide
2
2
0
0
202.27
8
3
Sydney
2
2
0
0
147.65
8
4
Fremantle
2
2
0
0
135.44
8
5
Collingwood
2
2
0
0
117.65
8
6
Richmond
2
2
0
0
112.02
8
7
Geelong
2
2
0
0
105.67
8
8
Bulldogs
2
1
0
1
124.24
4
9
Hawthorn
2
1
0
1
122.51
4
10
Adelaide
2
1
0
1
91.75
4
11
Gold Coast
2
1
0
1
85.34
4
12
North Melbourne
2
0
0
2
90.70
0
13
Carlton
2
0
0
2
90.13
0
14
St Kilda
2
0
0
2
84.13
0
15
West Coast
2
0
0
2
69.53
0
16
Greater Western Sydney
2
0
0
2
64.17
0
17
Brisbane
2
0
0
2
60.99
0
18
Melbourne
2
0
0
2
28.39
0
Hawthorn, coming off a six-day break and playing in 32 degree heat, looked vulnerable when West Coast closed the margin to 19 points at the final change.
But the Hawks flexed their muscle when it mattered most, slamming home eight goals to three in the last quarter to cruise to the 23.10 (148) to 15.8 (98) victory.
Franklin booted five goals and Rioli finished with four, while Luke Breust (four goals), Grant Birchall, Luke Hodge and Sam Mitchell were also key contributors.
Hawthorn skipper Hodge, in his first match of the season, tallied 25 disposals in defence and played out the entire match.
The Eagles were well served by Josh Kennedy (five goals) and midfielders Chris Masten and Matt Priddis.
But with ruckman Nic Naitanui, forward Mark LeCras, Sharrod Wellingham and Matt Rosa still sidelined, the Eagles look a shadow of the team that started the season as genuine premiership fancies.
West Coast are now 0-2, but should notch their first win of the season next week when they take on struggling Melbourne at the MCG on Saturday.
The Eagles were shellshocked early as Hawthorn raced out to a 39-point lead in the second quarter.
Big guns Rioli, Franklin and Jarryd Roughead were all prominent in front of goal, but it was West Coast's lack of pressure through the midfield that handed the ascendancy to the visitors.
It took until midway through the second quarter for West Coast to finally hit their straps, and they made the most of the momentum switch to slam on four unanswered goals within the space of five minutes.
Kennedy and Jack Darling were influential during the onslaught as Hawthorn's lead was whittled down to 14 points, but late goals to Breust and Roughead eased the pressure on the visitors.
Hawthorn were back in the box seat after kicking the opening two goals of the third quarter.
But once again West Coast fought back, closing to 19 points at the final change.
Hawthorn coughed up a 30-point lead in their loss to Geelong on Monday, but they dug deep to ensure history wouldn't repeat.
West Coast should have finished the stronger in the final term given they had 15 days to prepare for the match, but it was Hawthorn who powered home to notch their first win of the year.
Who is No.1 ... we come up with the Socceroos pecking order.Source:FOX SPORTS
Welcome to the Socceroos Power Rankings - your chance to play the role of Holger Osieck and scour the globe and debate the pecking order of Aussie players vying for a spot in the national squad on the road to Brazil.
To kick-start the countdown to the first big game in 2013 – Tuesday night’s qualifier against Oman in Sydney – a Fox Sports football roundtable of Simon Hill, Andy Harper, Mark Bosnich and Robbie Slater have ranked their top-50 Australian footballers.
It’s subjective, it’s opinionated and it’s going to provoke great debate.
Their criteria was simple: if you are the coach, who are the first names on your team sheet right now, based on form and fitness?
Do you agree with the guys? What would you change? Join the debate!
10. Tom Rogic (4 caps): of all the talent to leave our shores in recent years, is Rogic the most exciting? The former Central Coast Mariners dynamo is now forging his new life in Scotland with Celtic and provides Australia with a genuine playmaking option. He has the technique, and he is building a physical presence – he provides a real reason for Socceroos fans to remain hopeful that the next generation can deliver.
9. Brett Holman (58): what a journey it has been for the former Parramatta Power player. Five years ago he was a polarising figure amongst Australian fans; 18 months ago, he might have been pushing this list’s top-3. But a torrid few months at Aston Villa places him in a fight for his spot in the Socceroos' line-up. His energy, incisiveness and off-the-ball movement makes him a vital cog in this line-up – it’s just interesting to see how Osieck gets the best out of him in the system, particularly while he's lacking match sharpness.
8. Matt McKay (33): since McKay, who debuted in 2006, became a regular first-team player in the 2011 Asian Cup, he has been an indispensible member of the side. He rarely plays a bad game and his utility value, engines, consistency and left-foot option have been used across the field. Is even more important given that he provides a safer option should one of the younger brigade not step-up to fill the left-back role. Rated as high as No.2 by Harps.
7. Mile Jedinak (37): another fabulous reason to celebrate what the Mariners have brought to Australian football. To think that Jedinak was overlooked for the first season of the A-League is mind-blowing, given he now captains Crystal Palace and is so highly rated by his coach Ian Holloway. A physical presence with a good passing range and an unstoppable long-range shot, Jedinak is a vital member of the Socceroos set-up.
6. Alex Brosque (18): Brosque has made the most of Josh Kennedy’s absence to mould himself as one of the core members of Osieck’s recent squads. While he is not a traditional target man, the miles he covers during a game is the leg-work that makes life easier for the likes of Cahill and co. He’d love to improve his scoring rate – something resembling his nine in 16 for Al Ain would be nice! It will be interesting to see if his move to the Middle East helps or hinders his cause.
5. Mark Bresciano (65): ‘Bresc’ has scored some of Australia’s most crucial goals in recent seasons, and after a post-2010 World Cup hiatus, his return to the fold was a great fillip for the side. While the future looks brighter now with the likes of Rogic, Oar, Holland stepping up to the mark, Bresciano’s return provided much-needed creative impetus and experience. He is as fit as ever thanks to life in the Middle East and if you needed any reminder about his goal-scoring talents, just check out his recent goal against Scotland.
4. Lucas Neill (89): it will be really interesting to see how the Socceroos go against Oman in Neill's absence. Indeed, there are plenty of centre-backs on this list, which hints that the panel knows the importance of succession at the back while also hoping someone steps up to the plate soon to challenge for a first-team spot. The skipper has polarised fan opinion in recent times, but for all the talk about the 35-year-old’s worth to both Sydney FC and the Socceroos, can Osieck really afford not to have him in his side? His selection at No.4 should spark some of the more interesting debate, particularly after his struggles with soft-tissue injuries during his Sydney FC stint.
3. Mark Schwarzer (104): there’s not much more that can be said for the Socceroos’ custodian after 20 years in the international arena. His longevity is admirable as he continues to excel in the Barclays Premier League for Fulham. His presence instils confidence in those in front of him, and although Australia boasts as much depth between the sticks as in any position, Schwarzer remains No.1, with daylight second. Voted No.1 by Simon Hill and Mark Bosnich.
2. Robbie Kruse (21): the undoubted man of the moment and the poster-boy for generation next. It’s amazing to see how far the former Brisbane Roar and Melbourne Victory player has come, with plenty in Germany saying it is only a matter of time until he moves onwards and upwards from Fortuna Dusseldorf. His attacking spark, pace, incisiveness and energy have been a breath of fresh air for the side over the past 12-18 months during their best and worst displays. He was barely pipped by Cahill for the No.1 spot, but it is a huge positive for Australian football that a 24-year-old on the rise is making a name for himself at international level. Chosen as No.1 by Andy Harper, Robbie Slater and foxsports.com.au.
1. Tim Cahill (60): his Premier League days may be past him, but Timmy is a Socceroos legend – and still side’s talisman. He has always been the man for the big occasion and there is no bigger than the World Cup or qualification. Cahill has been re-invigorated since moving to New York from Everton and that can only fill Aussie fans with confidence. Interestingly, he wasn’t chosen at No.1 by any of the panel, but accrued the most votes by being No.2 or No.3 in each list cast by our panel.
The country’s quest to qualify for the 2014 FIFA World Cup in Brazil re-starts on Tuesday night. Australia are locked in a dogfight with Oman, Iraq and Jordan for the second automatic spot in Group B, eight points behind Japan. You can watch this vital clash live and in stunning HD from 6.30pm (EDT) on Fox Sports 1 HD, with kick-off from 7pm.
Who is No.1 ... we come up with the Socceroos pecking order.Source:FOX SPORTS
Welcome to the Socceroos Power Rankings - your chance to play the role of Holger Osieck and scour the globe and debate the pecking order of Aussie players vying for a spot in the national squad on the road to Brazil.
To kick-start the countdown to the first big game in 2013 – Tuesday night’s qualifier against Oman in Sydney – a Fox Sports football roundtable of Simon Hill, Andy Harper, Mark Bosnich and Robbie Slater have ranked their top-50 Australian footballers.
It’s subjective, it’s opinionated and it’s going to provoke great debate.
Their criteria was simple: if you are the coach, who are the first names on your team sheet right now, based on form and fitness?
Join the debate and don't forget to join us again on Tuesday morning as we unveil Australia's top-10 Socceroos.
20: Carl Valeri (50 caps): a mainstay of the Socceroos in recent years, Valeri makes this list despite missing through injury, but only because of his long-term role with the side. However, his long-term position going forward is an interesting question. A lower-leg syndesmosis injury rules him out of the entire qualification campaign and he still hasn't been able to secure a coveted move from Sassuolo to Serie A. He won't have it his own way down the track, contending with the likes of Jedinak, Milligan, Holland and possibly Herd vying for that defensive midfield slot. His position on the list will be one to watch.
19. Sasa Ognenovski (16): an interesting selection – popular with some of our panel, not with others. For a long while it looked as though the Ognenovski-Neill partnership was going to be our experienced duo at the back going forward. But we haven’t seen a lot of the Og Monster since his move to the Middle East to Umm-Salal after 80 appearances for Seongnam Ilhwa Chunma from 2009-2012. He’s made the ‘squad’ in this Power Rankings – but with so many centre-backs putting their hands up and snapping at his heels, will he be so high up next time?
18. Michael Zullo (9): the former Brisbane Roar star has been given a wonderful opportunity to make the Socceroos left-back spot his own and he is gradually giving it a better and better shake. There’s no doubting his ability and energy going forward; the question is whether Osieck will adjudge him as the safest option holding the fort down that flank. At a good club, FC Utrecht, in a good league, the Eredivise, he has every opportunity to fill the void left by Scott Chipperfield and David Carney.
17. Ryan McGowan (3): a debutant against Scotland, McGowan is highly rated by our panel. An option at centre-back and a challenger to Wilkshire on the right, the 23-year-old recently moved to China to play for Shandong Luneng. Another one of the younger breed knocking right on the door.
16. James Holland (9): keep an eye out on this impressive midfielder, who has made a very good impression on Osieck in recent times. He is on the cusp of winning silverware with Austria Wien in the Austrian league and is one of the Euro Roos regularly playing 90 minutes – impressing in a defensive midfield position. He left our shores as a talented Newcastle Jets and Olyroos prospect but is now well and truly in the first-XI mix.
15. Archie Thompson (46): the smiling assassin has been part of the Socceroos set-up for 12 years, but as his vital goal against Iraq demonstrated, he has as good a chance as ever to be unleashed in the big games despite being in the veteran stages of his career. The Melbourne Victory striker – one goal off Damian Mori’s Socceroos-record 29-goal total - is much-loved by Osieck, who says the enthusiasm he brings to the camp is infectious. He has been used as a super-sub who can provide genuine attacking spark when the side needs a change-up during a game.
14. Rhys Williams (10): a lot is expected of the Middlesbrough skipper, who provides an option along the back-line or in centre-midfield. After choosing to represent Australia over Wales, he was unlucky to miss the World Cup with injury and hasn’t quite asserted himself as expected. But he remains a very capable option worth persevering with.
13. Luke Wilkshire (74): The Socceroos’ Mr Consistency. Wilkshire has made the right-back spot his own and when he’s on-song, is an important part of the side’s structure and set-piece set-up – including penalties. But the country’s highest-paid footballer currently isn’t getting a game in Russia. Will he remain indispensible if he doesn’t get on the pitch? Simon ranks him as high as N0.4
12. Mark Milligan (19): the Melbourne Victory midfielder has already been to two World Cups, but now has his best shot at getting himself onto the pitch more regularly. He has gone to another level under Ange Postecoglou this term and his utility value makes him an important man in Osieck’s plans.
11. Tom Oar (6): one of the most precocious talents to have emerged from the A-League to date – but importantly for Australia, he hasn’t disappeared off the radar since his move from Brisbane Roar to FC Utrecht in Holland. He never looks out of place in green and gold, and provides a tantalising option down the left-flank, or even in a playmaking role. Oar, who recently made the Eredevise team of the round, has great potential to add another flavour to Australia’s attack.
The country’s quest to qualify for the 2014 FIFA World Cup in Brazil re-starts on Tuesday night. Australia are locked in a dogfight with Oman, Iraq and Jordan for the second automatic spot in Group B, eight points behind Japan. You can watch this vital clash live and in stunning HD from 6.30pm (EDT) on Fox Sports 1 HD, with kick-off from 7pm.
Who is No.1 ... we come up with the Socceroos pecking order.Source:FOX SPORTS
Welcome to the Socceroos Power Rankings - your chance to play the role of Holger Osieck and scour the globe and debate the pecking order of Aussie players vying for a spot in the national squad on the road to Brazil.
To kick-start the countdown to the first big game in 2013 – Tuesday night’s qualifier against Oman in Sydney – a Fox Sports football roundtable of Simon Hill, Andy Harper and Robbie Slater have ranked their top-50 Australian footballers.
It’s subjective, it’s opinionated and it’s going to provoke great debate.
Their criteria was simple: if you are the coach, who are the first names on your team sheet right now, based on form and fitness?
Join the debate and don't forget to join us again Friday morning for the next batch of squad contenders.
Will he or won't he ... Chris Herd.Source: AFP
35. Chris Herd: will he, or won’t he? The Aston Villa utility could provide a quality option for the Socceroos in midfield or as an alternative across the backline, but each time he’s been called up, he’s been injured. Until he makes his debut, there will be conjecture that he will opt to represent Scotland.
34.Trent Sainsbury: Graham Arnold has a terrific track record bringing youth into the A-League via the Mariners, and Sainsbury is top of the class this season. A classy, poised centre-back, he could be one to keep any eye on as an option – perhaps sooner rather than later. Has represented Australia at U-17 and U-20.
33. Luke DeVere: A terrific impression over 65 caps at Brisbane saw De Vere leave the A-League for Gyeongnam FC. The move hasn't thrust him into Socceroos colours just yet, but if we are to have depth at centre-back beyond Lucas Neill, De Vere is one of the players we need to reach the potential he showed in the A-League and get regular game time.
32. Richard Garcia (18 caps): thrown to the wolves against Germany at the 2010 World Cup in Durban, Garcia fell off the Socceroos radar after a knee injury ruled him out of the 2011 Asian Cup. But he returned to the squad for the East Asian Games qualifiers and the former Hull City man’s sharp form and leadership for Melbourne Heart sees him back in contention and an experienced option should Osieck need him.
Left-foot ... RukavytsyaSource: AP
31. Adam Taggart (3): one of the real bolters in the Socceroos ranks. The Newcastle Jets striker was one of the real beneficiaries of the East Asian Games qualifiers – scoring twice. Definitely on the radar as a lively, high quality player up front with an eye for goal. Pace, skill, confidence - he's highly rated by a number of our panel.
30. Jade North (39): a decade in the national team is testament to North’s versatility and reliability despite his lower profile. A return to the A-League after a spell in Asian club football should see him get regular game time – and with that, you’d expect him to be on the cusp of selection, jostling for that second centre-back spot or providing cover on either flank. In line for a start on Tuesday night.
29. Nikolai Topor-Stanley (2): you could have been ridiculed for mentioning this a few years back but Topor-Stanley has been a revelation at Western Sydney Wanderers and has a bullet next to his name in the eyes of our Power Ranking selectors. Gone is the clumsy giant at the back, replaced by a mobile, consistent and towering presence. His left-foot adds another string to his bow and it’s easy to see him creeping into the squad over the coming months.
Highly rated ... Aaron Mooy.Source: News Limited
28. Eugene Galekovic (6): our Save of the Week catalogue is almost a Galekovic showreel. The Adelaide United custodian has been outstandingly consistent since moving to Hindmarsh Stadium and his call-up for the Oman game is due recognition of that. An amazing shot-stopper, Galekovic has every chance to pip one of our overseas contingent to make our top three keepers and go to his second World Cup.
27. Aaron Mooy (2): Mooy was one of Western Sydney Wanderers’ key signings, returning home after a two-year spell with St Mirren in Scotland. He hasn’t disappointed, showing a tremendous range of passing and discipline in his role in the middle of the park. He hogged the headlines at the East Asian Games qualifiers with two stunning free-kicks.
26. Michael Thwaite (10): The Perth Glory centre-back's return to the Socceroos ranks is a feel good story – and a great A-League yarn. The highly talented defender has been singled out by Osieck as someone he trusts and is a huge shout of forging his way into Osieck’s first-choice pairing. Thwaite made his debut back in 2005, but after some difficult times abroad, he is finally back where he belongs.
25. Robert Cornthwaite (6): talk about being at the right place at the right time. The former Adelaide United defender stepped in at short notice against South Korea last year and hasn’t looked back, popping the odd goal in for fun and becoming one of Osieck’s favourites. Can he maintain it? He needs to get back into the side at Chunnam Dragons if he is serious about becoming a first-choice centre back.
24. Nikita Rukavytsya (11): the flying left-footer is someone the public has had its eyes on since he burst onto the scene at Perth Glory in 2007, but the 25-year-old hasn’t been able to quite nail a spot in the Socceroos squad. He was in Pim Verbeek’s plans, and made it onto the pitch in South Africa, but game time and goals at Mainz in the Bundesliga is vital if he wants to return to the frame for the big games.
23. Brett Emerton (95): the much loved veteran, who made his debut way back in 1998, isn't completely out of the reckoning despite a few struggles at Sydney FC since his return home. He led the way at the East Asian Games qualifying and scored a superb winner against Hong Kong. If Osieck needs another wise head, Emerton has never let the Socceroos down and would love to bring up the century of caps.
22. Adam Federici (8): The No.2 in South Africa still appears to hold that mantle, although injury keeps him out of the current squad. He has worked his way back into Reading's first team after a shaky start to life in the Barclays Premier League, and it will be interesting to see what the future holds should The Royals slip back into the nPower Championship. His headlines a line of deputies who should be able to provide sound cover for Mark Schwarzer.
21. Matt Spiranovic (16): the 24-year-old's selection here is a curious one, perhaps more on hope than results. Now at Al Arabi in Qatar, Spiranovic was the next big thing when he made his debut in 2008 while playing in Germany for FC Nuremberg. He hasn't kicked on since, nor found the consistency, but at his best is a poised, ball-playing centre-half who should, in theory, complement Lucas Neill.
The country’s quest to qualify for the 2014 FIFA World Cup in Brazil re-starts on Tuesday night. Australia are locked in a dogfight with Oman, Iraq and Jordan for the second automatic spot in Group B, eight points behind Japan. You can watch this vital clash live and in stunning HD from 6.30pm (EDT) on Fox Sports 1 HD, with kick-off from 7pm.
Who is No.1 ... we come up with the Socceroos pecking order.Source:FOX SPORTS
Welcome to the Socceroos Power Rankings - your chance to play the role of Holger Osieck and scour the globe and debate the pecking order of Aussie players vying for a spot in the national squad on the road to Brazil.
To kick-start the countdown to the first big game in 2013 – Tuesday night’s qualifier against Oman in Sydney – a Fox Sports football roundtable have ranked their top-50 Australian footballers.
It’s subjective, it’s opinionated and it’s going to provoke great debate.
Their criteria was simple: if you are the coach, who are the first names on your team sheet right now, based on form and fitness?
Join the debate and don't forget to join us again Friday morning for the next batch of squad contenders.
50. Dario Vidosic (14 caps): a player with such immense talent as a creative force, but whose consistency and temperament on the big stage has sometimes been questioned. A move to the Bundesliga in 2007 didn’t accelerate his international hopes – but he's showed glimpses of brilliance this term and an influential finals series with Adelaide cannot hurt his claims.
Future ... Mitch Langerak is on the radar.Source: AAP
49. Scott McDonald (26): I wonder what Scotty Mac makes of Robert Cornthwaite’s international scoring record? The Middlesbrough man’s international drought became an unwanted distraction while he enjoyed a run in the side under Pim Verbeek, and had fallen dramatically off the radar until an appearance against Scotland last year. He’s getting more games in the nPower Championship, which saw him make the cut here. Whether Holger Osieck obliges is another question altogether.
48. Neil Kilkenny (14): the Bristol City midfielder is known for his range of passing, but couldn’t cash in on a decent spell in the middle of the park for the side at the start of Osieck’s tenure when there was a genuine vacancy for him. Was identified by Guus Hiddink as a player of the future before the 2006 World Cup but hasn’t made a mark internationally.
47. Aziz Behich (5): Bozza has previously nominated Behich for a left-back berth. It’s one of the wide open positions in the Socceroos line-up – Behich will hope his move to Bursaspor in Turkey propels him up the pecking order.
46. Jason Davidson (1): infamous for his inauspicious debut against Scotland, Jason is a son of 79-time Socceroo Alan. Currently plays for Heracles Almelo in Eredivise in Holland but gets a shot in the pecking order because of the experimentation at left-back.
Solid ... Millwall's Shane Lowry.Source: AAP
45. Curtis Good: a romantic run to the Carling Cup final ended in a bit of a nightmare for the teenager, but his ascent via Newcastle United and on loan at Bradford City has the former Melbourne Heart centre-back as one of the key prospects coming through at the heart of defence and a player to watch at the back end of our list.
44. Corey Gameiro: as far as first impressions go, Wellington Phoenix’s striker, on loan from Fulham, might be one of our brightest prospects on the radar. The 20-year-old enjoyed an outstanding under-19 AFC championship, scoring all six of Australia's goals at the tournament to help them qualify for the 2013 under-20 World Cup. Arguably the big bolter in this list and a prospect to save our goal scoring woes.
43. Matthew Leckie (2): a late push got Leckie a Guernsey on our list and it’d be great to see glimpses of what we saw at Adelaide United transferred onto the national stage. Currently on loan at FSV Frankfurt in the German second tier and gradually enjoying more time on the pitch.
42. Ivan Franjic (3): a key cog of the Roar’s championship juggernaut, Franjic is a bolter for a right-back berth who comes highly recommended by Harps. Good on the ball and with bundles of energy, Franjic made his green and gold debut last year.
41. Mitch Langerak (1): judges votes were split between Wanderers' Ante Covic, Liverpool's Brad Jones and the Borussia Dortmund deputy, but the young keeper sneaks in. His time in the Bundesliga has done him a world of good after his move from Melbourne Victory, but if he wants to position himself further up the list and to make a play at the No.2 or No.3 jersey for Brazil, he needs to find regular first team action.
Bolter ... Corey Gameiro.Source: AAP
40. Dino Djulbic (2): Djulbic is one of the players to have kicked on since his move to the Middle East and his selection in Osieck’s current squad – and his appearance on this list – is testament to that. The former Glory and Gold Coast defender hadn’t really featured on the Socceroos radar until an encouraging display at the East Asian Games tournament. Now Osieck gives the Al Whada centre-back a shot at becoming part of the furniture.
39. Shane Lowry: Former Aston Villa defender Lowry is now playing regularly for Millwall in the nPower Championship. It is actually surprising he hasn't been tried in the left-back slot, especially given he has represented Republic of Ireland at under-17 and under-21 level. An FA Cup semi-final beckons, against Wigan.
38. Mat Ryan (2): the 20-year-old’s selection ahead of the likes of Brad Jones and Mitch Langerak not only vindicates the merits of the A-League and consistent playing time, but is a sign of his graduation from prodigious talent to genuine Socceroos contender. Has been remarkably consistent since bursting onto the scene at Central Coast in 2010.
37. Matt Smith (3): if the Brisbane skipper can return to fitness, he could well find himself in contention, if recent praise from Osieck can be read into. Born in England, Smith was capped at the recent East Asian Games qualifying. A calm leader at the back.
36. Josh Kennedy (30): a goal every two games for the Socceroos has made the lanky striker a fan favourite, but he has struggled to become the first choice marksman many thought he might become while plying his trade in Germany. Still an important part of the squad because of the different element he brings, he has struggled with injury this season in Japan with Nagoya Grampus and that's the biggest cloud over his involvement.
The country’s quest to qualify for the 2014 FIFA World Cup in Brazil re-starts on Tuesday night. Australia are locked in a dogfight with Oman, Iraq and Jordan for the second automatic spot in Group B, eight points behind Japan. You can watch this vital clash live and in stunning HD from 6.30pm (EDT) on Fox Sports 1 HD, with kick-off from 7pm.
Who is No.1 ... we come up with the Socceroos pecking order.Source:FOX SPORTS
Who is the first name on Holger Osieck's team sheet? Who is indispensable? Who is knocking at the door? And who do we have coming through the ranks?
Welcome to the Socceroos Power Rankings – your chance to play the role of Holger Osieck and scour the globe and debate the pecking order of Aussie players vying for a spot in the national squad on the road to Brazil.
To kick-start the countdown to the first big game in 2013 – Tuesday night’s qualifier against Oman in Sydney – a Fox Sports football roundtable have ranked their top-50 Australian footballers.
It’s subjective, it’s opinionated and it’s going to provoke great debate.
Group B
P
W
D
L
GD
Pts
1
Japan
5
4
1
0
11
13
2
Australia
4
1
2
1
0
5
3
Iraq
5
1
2
2
-1
5
4
Oman
5
1
2
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Ahead of the Socceroos’ return to competitive action, Simon Hill, Andy Harper, Mark Bosnich and Robbie Slater nominated their list of 50 – from which we came up with a final list. The criteria is simple: if you are the coach, who are the first names on your team sheet?
We’ll follow the form of our Aussies abroad and in the A-League through the course of the World Cup qualifying campaign and monitor who is pushing their cause, or sliding down the list, all the way to – hopefully – Brazil.
So, is Lucas Neill still the first name pencilled into the first-XI?
Who is the biggest bolter?
Who is the most glaring omission?
We’ll reveal players 50-36 on Wednesday morning. Join the debate as we continue the countdown on Thursday and Friday, before we reveal our top 10 on Monday morning.
Join us as we find out if you agree with the panel’s choice of our most important Socceroo, and explore who our options are if form or injury hampers our top squad.
The country’s quest to qualify for the 2014 FIFA World Cup in Brazil re-starts on Tuesday night. Australia are locked in a dogfight with Oman, Iraq and Jordan for the second automatic spot in Group B, eight points behind Japan. You can watch this vital clash live and in stunning HD from 6.30pm (EDT) on Fox Sports 1 HD, with kick-off from 7pm.
Game-Changer ... Charlie Dixon helped turn the game in the Suns' favour.Source: AAP
A dominant third quarter led a near-full strength Gold Coast outfit to a 25-point AFL trial win on Saturday over an injury-stricken Melbourne.
The Suns won the practice match 12.8 (80) to 8.7 (55) on the Gold Coast.
All times are listed in EDT
Two moments of brilliance from Cairns product Charlie Dixon sparked a five-goal run in the third term to end what had been an arm wrestle until that point, with the forward reeling in two tough marks which led to goals.
Gary Ablett also scored a brace of goals while 20-year-old Aaron Hall, who was one of the Suns' best on ground, kicked three.
James Sellar had three for the visitors.
Gold Coast welcomed back big guns Ablett, Karmichael Hunt and Jarrod Harbrow in a tough final hitout before the regular season played at the unusual time of 11.50am (AEST) with the temperature nudging 30 degrees.
And it didn't take long for Ablett to get into the game, with the 2009 Brownlow medallist slotting through a pin-perfect kick from a tough angle on the right flank.
In contrast, the Demons limped into the game with a shopping list of injury problems, headed by the absences of co-captain Jack Trengove and superboot Mitch Clark.
The Suns controlled the mid-field in the opening quarter and enjoyed a wealth of forward running, but were cruelled by basic errors that cost them the chance to mount scoreboard pressure.
That was highlighted by Aaron Hall who broke away from the pack only to shank a straight-forward goal attempt in front, with Melbourne taking a 2.3 (15) to 1.0 (6) lead into the first break.
The Demons then piled on two quick goals early in the second quarter through Cameron Pederson and Mark Jamar to open up a 21-point lead before Hall took a great mark in traffic and converted to stem the bleeding.
Goals to Ablett and Harbrow locked the scores up and Gold Coast had plenty of chances to push out to a big lead but missed four further shots at goal, instead heading into the main break ahead by just two points.
Melbourne goaled first through Sellar but it did not get any better than that for the visitors, with the Suns piling on five unanswered goals - including two from brilliant Dixon marks - to streak away to a 25-point lead at the final change.
The two teams went goal for goal in the final term, but the damage done in the third quarter was too much for the Demons to overcome.
Meanwhile, Port Adelaide upset reigning premiers Sydney by 30 points in Saturday's trial match in Adelaide.
The Power stormed home in the last quarter with four goals to Sydney's one and won 15.12 (102) to 10.12 (72) before 5103 spectators at AAMI Stadium.
Port, who last week downed West Coast, were inspired by captain Travis Boak, who kicked three goals in a best-afield display.
His teammates Kane Mitchell and Aaron Young each kicked two majors while onballer Brad Ebert and Justin Westhoff were influential.
Sydney stalwart Adam Goodes and Luke Parker both potted two goals while Josh Kennedy and Jarrad McVeigh were standouts in the midfield.
The Power, who haven't made the finals since 2007, lost John Butcher to a suspected hand injury as the key forward made his first AFL appearance this year after hip surgery.
Port controlled the early stages with Boak kicking two goals and gathering 14 disposals to halftime and his teammates Hamish Hartlett and Brad Ebert prominent.
Port led 7.5 to 4.7 at the main break as Sydney lacked spark and managed just one goal in the second term.
The Swans clicked into gear in the third quarter, reducing the margin to one point by booting three quick goals.
Port midfielder Mitchell then pushed his claims to be elevated from the rookie list in time for the premiership season with two goals in 60 seconds, and Daniel Stewart kicked another, to restore the Power's advantage.
Two late goals to Sydney, by Ben McGlynn and Parker, reduced their deficit to seven points at three-quarter time but Port sealed their victory with the initial three goals of the last term.
Stars from the Storm ... Loz says Melbourne and the Cowboys are strong.Source: Michael Klein / News Limited
As part of our efforts to bring even more rugby league to fans, Fox Sports rugby league expert Laurie Daley will provide unique video previews of every game of every round of the NRL season.
This week Loz continues his comprehensive look at the second round, with a focus on the clash of top-four contenders North Queensland Cowboys and Melbourne Storm the highlight.
Daley believes both side's have the star power required to push for this year's premiership.
See what else Loz has to say in his video previews of every game of the round below..
St George Illawarra Dragons v Brisbane Broncos, Win Stadium, Friday 8.05pm (EDT)
New Zealand Warriors v Sydney Roosters, Eden Park, Saturday 5.30pm (EDT)
North Queensland Cowboys v Melbourne Storm, 1300SMILES Stadium, Saturday 7.30pm (EDT)
Gold Coast Titans v Canberra Raiders, Skilled Park, Sunday 2pm (EDT)
Wests Tigers v Penrith Panthers, Campbellton Sports Stadium, 3pm (EDT)
High-Powered ... Chad Wingard led Port Adelaide with three goals in their pre-season win.Source: BEN MACMAHON / AAP
Port Adelaide utility Chad Wingard booted three goals in a six-point victory against West Coast in Saturday night's AFL pre-season cup game in Alice Springs.
0.4.1 (25)
Q1
0.3.0 (18)
0.5.7 (37)
Q2
0.8.2 (50)
1.8.10 (67)
Q3
1.10.3 (72)
1.11.11 (86)
Q4
1.13.5 (92)
Josh J. Kennedy
5
Chad Wingard
3
Jack Darling
2
Andrew Moore
2
Josh Hill
2
Jay Schulz
2
Dean Cox
1
Hamish Hartlett
1
Shannon Hurn
1
Matthew Lobbe
1
Matt Priddis
1
Jake Neade
1
Cameron O'Shea
1
Lewis Stevenson
1
Paul Stewart
1
Justin Westhoff
1
The Power won 1.13.5 (92) to 1.11.11 (86) at Traeger Park.
Port spearhead Jay Schulz and Andrew Moore both kicked two goals and captain Travis Boak was the leading possession winner on the ground with 24 disposals.
Boak's teammates Kane Cornes (20 touches), Brad Ebert (19) and Hamish Hartlett also performed strongly for the Power.
The Eagles were brilliantly served by full forward Josh Kennedy, who kicked five goals, while Josh Hill and Jack Darling each bagged a double.
West Coast on-baller Luke Shuey was busy with a team-high 21 disposals while midfielder Matt Priddis and defenders Beau Waters and Will Schofield were solid.
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The Eagles started strongly as Kennedy kicked three of the initial four goals of the game.
But the Power, with Hartlett influential, were within seven points at quarter-time and then unleashed a standout second quarter.
Port potted five unanswered goals, including Wingard's third, but Kennedy jagged his fourth major just before half-time.
The Power led by 13 points at the main break and extended their advantage to a commanding 34 points in the third quarter, the highest margin of the match.
But the Eagles clawed their way back into the game late in the quarter, with Hill and Darling each kicking two goals to reduce the margin to only five points at three quarter-time.
Both clubs posted three goals in an even final quarter but the Eagles were unable to reel in the Power's lead.
Blackout ... Power president David Koch is furious at his club's lack of TV exposure.Source: Sarah Reed / News Limited
Port Adelaide president David Koch is ready to fight the AFL on the damaging television blackout the Power has suffered in the past two pre-seasons.
Port has had none of its NAB Cup games televised since its 20/20 openers against Adelaide and St Kilda at AAMI Stadium in February.
Since then, Port's Adelaide-based fans have been denied matches at home as the Power has played Melbourne at Renmark on Sunday and will play West Coast at Alice Springs on Saturday night.
There also has been no television service offered to Port's Adelaide-based fans and its Sydney-based president.
"That's crazy," Koch said. "February and March are the peak times to sell memberships and sponsorships. This is the time when you can command the fans' interest in your club because they are excited by the new hope a new season brings.''
"But you need television exposure to help that. We have been denied that for two years. We, Melbourne and Gold Coast have had minimal television coverage during the NAB Cup. We want a fair break, an even break."
Port also has a alternative to the AFL's plan to hit fans with a luxury tax on blockbuster match tickets.
Koch will front the league executive at its equalisation summit at AFL House on March 20 with this option:
Remove the $2 levy currently on all adult tickets to AFL games of the low-order clubs on the league's financial tables.
Keep the $2 levy on the middle-order clubs' tickets.
And raise the levy to $5 on tickets sold by the AFL's super-clubs and at blockbuster events such as the Collingwood-Essendon Anzac Day game.
"That levy would then go into a new equalisation pool to be distributed among the clubs," Koch told The Advertiser on Thursday.
Koch also is opposed to any luxury tax being applied to sponsorship takings from the AFL clubs.
"That would only stifle innovation," Koch said.
"The fairest way on this equalisation issue is to reimburse the clubs that are not in the blockbuster frame and not getting national exposure on the big television nights, such as Friday night.
"The simplest way is to take off the levy from the clubs missing out on this critical exposure and to lift it on the clubs with blockbuster events and premier television timeslots.
"Then we reimburse the clubs that miss out at the gate."
Koch earlier this week sided with the Melbourne-based clubs in particular Carlton and Geelong that will go to the equalisation summit determined to strip Sydney and Greater Western Sydney of the 9.8 per cent allowance they have on the salary cap to cover the extra cost of living in Sydney.
"They don't need any extra money whatsoever," said Koch, who lives in Sydney.
"It is more expensive (in Sydney), but there are more opportunities for a lot of players in Sydney for things outside of football.
"The AFL has got to start focusing back on the traditional heartland clubs rather than the expansion teams and look at their core again and give us a bit of a break."
Coup ... Port Adelaide announce major sponsor Renault.Source: Hamish Blair / News Limited
Port Adelaide's announcement of a multi-million dollar sponsorship deal at the MCG highlights their push to create more national support for the AFL club.
Power president David Koch, coach Ken Hinkley and captain Travis Boak - all new club leaders - were at the announcement of the three-year deal with French car giant Renault on Tuesday.
It is a major boost for Port, which has struggled on and off the field for the last few years.
The unusual step of making the announcement outside of Adelaide underscores the club's need to build a bigger supporter and sponsorship base.
Koch said it was vital that the club, which was born out of its highly-successful namesake in the local SANFL, broaden its horizons.
"We have to get out of 5105 as a postcode,'' Koch said of their traditional Alberton home.
"We are a national brand, we're playing in a national competition on the field and we're playing in a national competition off the field as well.
"This represents where we're heading.''
The Power have set up business groups in Melbourne and Sydney in a bid to attract more corporate support.
A key reason for Koch becoming president last October is the media personality's high profile in the Australian business community.
Port finished 14th last season, where they sacked Matthew Primus as coach.
They also had to deal with the death of player John McCarthy in Las Vegas during an end-of-season trip.
"Don't underestimate how important today is, not only for us as a board, but for the players and the membership of the club as well,'' Koch said.
"It's a tonic of saying `hey, people believe in us'.
"That belief and that passion has been under a bit of pressure over the last couple of years.''
A potent symbol of Port's financial woes has been the covers over whole sections of seating at AAMI Stadium for their home games.
Those advertising signs, which have highlighted the club's poor home crowds, are being phased out.
"I think you'll see most of those gone in this coming season,'' Koch said.
