Lions top NAB Cup ladder

Nick Riewoldt in the rain during St Kilda's intra-club practice match in Wangaratta last year. Picture: Colleen Petch Source: HWT Image Library

THE Lions are surprise pre-season ladder-leaders, Richmond is ninth and the Dogs have a hand on the NAB Cup wooden spoon.

Brisbane bolted out of the blocks with wins against Hawthorn and Gold Coast to record the best percentage of the four teams to hold an unbeaten record after the first round of NAB Cup matches.

Mick Malthouse made a successful start to his coaching career to have Carlton sitting second, just ahead of his former club Collingwood, while North Melbourne rounds out the top four after snatching victory late against Richmond on Friday night.

Those four teams seem the only realistic hopes of making the final of the pre-season competition, which will be played between the two top teams after three rounds of round-robin matches.

See the full NAB Cup fixture below

The competition reverts to full-length games for the next two weeks as clubs head to the far corners of the country.

Brisbane will try to keep its unbeaten record intact against GWS in Wagga, Gold Coast will take on North Melbourne in the first AFL match in Townsville while Essendon will return to Wangaratta to face Richmond.

The Bombers were set to play in Wangaratta last year but the match was called off in bizarre circumstances.

After chartering planes to transport players to the town - 240km from Melbourne - on the day of the game, the Bombers were forced to return to Melbourne when the aircraft couldn't land due to bad weather.

The match was abandoned and the Saints were later awarded the points - and gave angry locals something to watch by staging a hastily-arranged practice match.

NAB CUP LADDER

1. Brisbane Lions 2-0 254.3%
2. Carlton 2-0 142.9%
3. Collingwood 2-0 134.5%
4. North Melbourne 2-0 107.5%
5. Port Adelaide 1-1  158.6%
6. Essendon 1-1 148.0%
7. GWS 1-1 135.5%
8. West Coast 1-1 133.8%
---
9. Richmond 1-1 117.5%
10. Fremantle 1-1 91.4%
11. Adelaide 1-1 87.0%
12. Geelong 1-1 83.2%
13. St Kilda 1-1 73.0%
14. Gold Coast 1-1 62.8%
15. Melbourne 0-2 75.0%
16. Hawthorn 0-2 64.5%
17. Sydney 0-2 53.1%
18. Western Bulldogs 0-2 52.2%

NAB CUP FIXTURE (all times local)

Round 2

Friday, March 1
Western Bulldogs v Hawthorn (Etihad Stadium,7.40pm) FOX FOOTY

Saturday, March 2
Geelong v Adelaide (Simonds Stadium, 2.40pm) FOX FOOTY
Gold Coast v North Melbourne (Townsville, 3.30pm)
Essendon v Richmond (Wangaratta, 5.10pm) FOX FOOTY
GWS v Brisbane Lions (Wagga, 7pm)
Carlton v Fremantle (Etihad Stadium, 7.40pm) FOX FOOTY

Sunday, March 3
Port Adelaide v Melbourne (Renmark, 4pm)
St Kilda v Sydney (Etihad Stadium, 5.10pm) FOX FOOTY
West Coast v Collingwood (Patersons Stadium, 4.40pm) FOX FOOTY

Round 3

Friday, March 8
GWS v Essendon (Manuka Oval, 6.10pm) FOX FOOTY
Adelaide v Carlton (AAMI Stadium, 8.10pm) FOX FOOTY

Saturday, March 9
Hawthorn v Richmond (Aurora Stadium, 1.10pm) FOX FOOTY
Melbourne v St Kilda (Casey Fields, 2.30pm)
Fremantle v Western Bulldogs (Northam), 3.30pm
Geelong v North Melbourne (Simonds Stadium, 3.40pm) FOX FOOTY
Collingwood v Brisbane Lions (Etihad Stadium, 6.40pm) FOX FOOTY
West Coast v Port Adelaide (Alice Springs, 7pm)
Sydney v Gold Coast (Blacktown ISP, 7pm)

Grand Final

Friday March 15 or Saturday March 16
(Venue TBC) 7.40pm FOX FOOTY/Channel 7

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Diesel wants concussion breaks

Greg Williams says he doesn't remember much from Carlton's 1995 premiership. Source: Herald Sun

BROWNLOW medallist Greg Williams, who has a degenerative brain disease, says the AFL should force players who suffer multiple concussions to take compulsory two-month breaks.

The former Carlton star has been battling chronic traumatic encephalopathy, a condition commonly associated with athletes involved in contact sports.

His comments come as the AFL prepares to host a major conference on concussion at Etihad Stadium next month before Round 1.

Williams says he has forgotten large portions of his career, which included 250 games with Geelong, the Sydney Swans and Carlton from 1984-1997.

He was one of six former AFL players and an ex-NRL player who had been taking part in a testing program at Deakin University.

All had shown signs of brain disease.

Williams called on the AFL to do more to protect players, saying several concussions were still not being diagnosed properly and some at-risk players should not be competing every week.

"I'm not an expert but I just think players who are great players like (Geelong's Joel) Selwood and (Sydney's Kurt) Tippett and these guys are getting knocked out two or three times a year and they're nearly playing the week after,'' Williams told SEN.

"There are different levels of concussion and if you're a certain level and you get knocked out there's got to be a one-month, two-month lay-off.

"They've got to get treatment and they've got to make sure that they're right before they come back.''

Williams said he'd been fully concussed about four times in his career but warned that continual head knocks could lead to minor concussion.

Greg Williams cops a heavy bump from Essendon's Michael Prior in 1997. Picture: Michael Dodge Source: Herald Sun

He said the league needed to make changes to the issue of concussion across the board, including in suburban and country leagues.

"They're not getting diagnosed and they're not getting treated properly and there are going to have to be changes and I'm sure there will be in the years ahead,'' Williams said.

Officials from all AFL clubs will attend the March 20-21 conference which is being held to provide the league with the most up-to-date information available on head injuries.

The Concussion in Sport conference will include representatives from a range of sports and be run in conjunction with rugby league and rugby union, but will be open to any sporting group who needs to deal with concussion.

I know I started '84 at Geelong ... But the specifics, like the Grand Final after the game in the rooms, I remember nothing about that.

It will be held one week after the release of new guidelines on the management of concussion in sport which follow the 2012 Zurich International Consensus Conference on Concussion.

AFL Medical Officers Association Officer Dr Hugh Seward, who attended the Zurich Conference, said some new initiatives relating to the match-day management of concussion would be released at the conference.

"We are adding a few more strategic aspects to the decision-making particularly with regard to how (doctors) should approach video analysis (for evaluation purposes),'' Seward said.

'I cant remember Grand Final'

Williams says he cannot remember the highlight of his career, the 1995 Blues premiership, despite winning the Norm Smith Medal and kicking five goals.

"Obviously I know that I won the premiership in 1995 and things like that, but I don't remember a lot about the game, no I don't," he has told Channel 7's Sunday Night program.

"I know I started '84 at Geelong, '86 I can remember, all those main dates, and the Grand Final loss in '93 and won the Brownlow in '94.

"But the specifics as you say, like the Grand Final after the game in the rooms, I remember nothing about that."

Williams said that in his playing days there were no club rules regarding concussion. If you were knocked out and you recovered you were sent back on.

"If you didn't you were a wimp - it was just tradition, you got up and kept going,'' he said.

Carlton champion Greg Williams gets attention from a trainer. Source: Herald Sun

His wife Mary has noticed the changes in her husband of 26 years - his forgetfulness and his temper, which she says is getting worse.

"He'll snap at me for no reason, and you think, what's going on here?'' she said.

She said the worst part would be if she had to care for him as he got older and he didn't recognise her.

The revelations come as Melbourne pulled young midfielder Rohan Bail from contact drills for six weeks after he suffered two concussions during the pre-season.

Bail missed four weeks last season after suffering a head knock in Round 9.

Williams is one of six former AFL players and one NRL player who have had CTE testing by Deakin University's Alan Pearce.

All seven have shown symptoms of permanent brain disease.

Researchers are investigating the link between head knocks and CTE, dementia and depression.

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Giant out with punctured lung

Young GWS defender Matt Buntine lies on the ground after being hurt in a marking contest. Picture: Brett Costello Source: The Daily Telegraph

YOUNG Greater Western Sydney defender Matt Buntine will miss eight weeks after suffering a punctured lung in the NAB Cup.

Buntine was crunched by Carlton forward Levi Casboult at Blacktown yesterday and was immediately taken to Blacktown Hospital, where he had his lung drained.

He also suffered a broken rib and is now recovering in Westmead Hospital.

"It is unfortunate for Matt who has had a strong pre-season. But we are confident he will make a full recovery and look forward to him returning to the team and playing a key role for the Giants," GWS football manager Graeme Allan said.

He said co-captain Callan Ward would be available for the Giants' clash against the Brisbane Lions on Saturday night after missing the first round of the NAB Cup with a minor knee injury.

Meanwhile, Giants coach Kevin Sheedy says he won't rush the development of his AFL side.

Sheedy noted GWS have the makings of an "absolutely magnificent team" after they posted a maiden win over cross-city rivals Sydney in a pre-season clash at Blacktown.

While Sheedy was all smiles, he noted the club was still aiming for long-term sustainable success.

"Clubs in a hurry have accidents," Sheedy said.

"You've seen that in the last few years in the AFL, they muck up by rushing their decisions.

"Rushing to want to be good, rushing to try and find the edge.

"Sometimes the edge is your own spirit, soul and talent."

GWS's 24-point victory over Sydney came after the Giants were left feeling "very, very annoyed with themselves" after going down to Carlton by two points.

The shock upset added another layer of intrigue to the opening-round Sydney derby on March 30 at ANZ Stadium.

"Teams are going to improve and GWS showed they've improved a lot and they really want to compete," Swans midfielder Luke Parker said.

"That's what we didn't do tonight.

"I guess their attack on the ball was always up there, but they were very attacking and used a lot of hands through the middle and they were doing it pretty well tonight.

"The thing is, we let them. We didn't have the pressure we normally put on them. So it made it a lot easier for them."

GWS lost both of their derby clashes in 2012, by an average of 78.5 points, and Sheedy was looking forward to seeing how far his side had come.

"It's a game that's actually going to change the state of football in NSW, for sure," Sheedy said.

"Because what our players are starting to feel is that we're not that far away, really, from any of the sides.

"I know we've got a bit of a way to go, but the growth of this team over the summer has been enormous.

"I've been around football a long time and I've seen the great Richmond sides play, and obviously coached the great Bombers sides.

"Get on early because this side is going to be an absolutely magnificent team."

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Integrity name of the game

AFL boss Andrew Demetriou vows to maintain the integrity of the sport. Source: Herald Sun

THE AFL has vowed to restore the trust it concedes some football fans have lost in the code, insisting it will rid the game of "rogue elements".

AFL chief executive Andrew Demetriou insisted the competition would not tolerate anyone who puts the integrity of the game at risk.

In an exclusive interview with Sunday Herald Sun columnist Shane Crawford, Demetriou rejected calls for his sacking from former Hawthorn president Jeff Kennett.

"All of us want to have our supporters and our key partners believe in the game and live up to its values, and I think in the main that we do," Demetriou said.

"But it is sometimes the acts of individuals that taint great people at clubs, boards and players. The actions of a particular player at a particular club could taint the whole playing group, so what we have to do is live up to the values that we set ourselves."

Asked if he could understand why some supporters might be questioning the game after a tumultuous off-season, Demetriou said: "I certainly can, because in this organisation we pride ourselves on very, very strong core values, on being transparent, being honest, acting with integrity, acting with the right ethics.

"That's what the public expects. It is something that should apply in any organisation, any club, any business.

"We have drawn a line in the sand. We are going to put a stop to rogue elements at clubs and the insidious nature of some individuals who are trying to spoil it for the rest of the code. It is only a handful of people but it can cause significant damage.

"The public are entitled to be questioning the values of the code because they are wondering, given what has happened with the Melbourne, Adelaide and Essendon (investigations). I have said the issues of values, principles and ethics in the code are absolute non-negotiables."

Demetriou said clubs had been provided with a "road map" of warning signs - "things like ex-players, anti-ageing clinics, gyms and tattoo parlours".

He would not be drawn into criticism by Kennett, who suggested on Footy Classified that the AFL was being run on a culture of fear and intimidation.

 Kennett also said the AFL Commission had to start considering a time frame for change at the top of the AFL.

But Demetriou was adamant that he still had the fire in the belly to help restore the faith that some people might have lost in AFL football.

"I'm not distracted ... I'm not tired," Demetriou said of the criticism being levelled at him. "I am very excited about the season ahead.

"(And) I am very excited about the new people we are about to appoint and bring in to reinvograte the executive."

In his interview with the Sunday Herald Sun, Demetriou also said the AFL would ban the use of intravenous injections other than painkillers and would ensure the club doctor would be the sole person responsible for player treatment.

"There will be a ban on IV at clubs - not just on game day," he said. "We are implementing some very, very serious measures to restore treatments of players under one person and that is the club doctor."

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Shocking trip north for Hawks

Hawthorn forward Paul Puopolo writhes in pain after landing awkwardly on his left knee. Picture: David Clark Source: Herald Sun

HAWTHORN coach Alastair Clarkson says the Hawks have no concerns from the opening round of the NAB Cup despite a knee injury to Paul Puopolo, Lance Franklin's indifferent outing and the Hawks' twin losses to Brisbane and the Gold Coast at Metricon Stadium last night.

The Hawks suffered a one-point loss to the Suns in the opening match of the night while the Lions roared past last year's grand finalists in the second match to claim a 21-point victory in steamy conditions to end Hawthorn's chances of claiming the pre-season silverware.

Puopolo crashed to the turf late in the loss to the Suns and clutched his knee, sending a scare through the Hawks' camp.

He received urgent medical attention and eventually hobbled off the field.

Picture: David Clark Source: Gold Coast Bulletin

Meanwhile, apart from one nice touch to set-up a goal for Sam Grimley in the first game, Franklin had a forgettable start to 2013.
He made high contact with Suns midfielder Matt Shaw midway through the second half and struggled to make a mark on either contest.

The impact with Shaw was relatively minimal but the incident could draw the attention of the AFL match review panel tomorrow given the crackdown on any contact with the head.

Clarkson was not stressed by anything he saw last night.

"I think he (Puopolo) is OK. He's walking around, so he'll be OK," he said.

"We get gametime for our players, that's the most critical thing.

"We were pretty competitive for three quarters and then the heat probably drained a bit out of us the last quarter.

"Brisbane ran over the top of us a bit. They had more legs ... but we'd been out there in pretty stifling conditions for three quarters prior to that.

"We gave exposure to a lot of younger players on our list tonight and they'll really benefit from that."

Clarkson claimed to have missed spotting the Franklin-Shaw incident.

"I didn't see. So I couldn't tell you," he said.

He said the humid conditions were not ideal for Franklin, who finished with five touches and no goals against the Suns.

He was pushed into the midfield against the Lions and had nine touches, two clearances and three inside-50s.

But he could not catch a cold last night, registering two marks across the two games in a generally unhappy night with his hands.

Picture: David Clark Source: Gold Coast Bulletin

He dropped a sitter of a mark deep inside Hawthorn's attacking 50 when scores were level late in the match against the Gold Coast.

"He competed hard, he was a bit scratchy with the ball from time to time. In hindsight we should have brought a mosquito fleet up here because it wasn't a game where it was conducive to tall players," Clarkson said.

"It was nearly like wet weather footy. He had a bit of a run up there (midfield). With the ball so slippery we thought if we could get the ball in his hands at least he can kick it a mile when he gets it."

The Suns got off to a bright start but could not turn their dominance into points.

Hawks forward Luke Breust kicked the first goal of the match but rising Gold Coast star Harley Bennell handed the home side a well-deserved lead with two quickfire goals.

Hawthorn took a slender one-point lead into halftime after Ryan Schoenmakers booted a goal late in the first half after outstanding build-up work from Matt Suckling.

Goals to Suns defender Jarrod Harbrow and ruckman Zac Smith brought the home side roaring back into the contest and scores were level deep inside the second half before Luke Russell registered a point after the siren.

Gold Coast captain Gary Ablett had 13 possessions while Jaeger O'Meara caught the eye with seven disposals.

The contest with Brisbane was a horribly scrappy affair.

The Hawks led 1.3 (9) to 0.3 (3) but were no match for the Daniel Rich and Brent Moloney-inspired Lions in the second half.

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Jacobs commits to Crows' cause

Sam Jacobs awaits the ball during an Adelaide Crows training session. Source: The Advertiser

CROWS lead ruckman Sam Jacobs has confirmed he is committed to a long-term contract extension at Adelaide.

Jacobs, 25 in April, will sign a three-year extension keeping him at West Lakes until the end of 2016.

The former Carlton player pre-empted official announcements from Adelaide by taking to Twitter today.

He Tweeted team-mate Patrick Dangerfield saying: "Great to join your ranks in hanging round for a long time.''

Dangerfield last year signed a three-year contract extension.

But Jacobs suggests there is a significant difference in his deal when compared to the big-grossing Dangerfield: "Not $$$ though.''

Jacobs has been held back in the Adelaide pre-season as the Crows manage their senior players.

He is expected to appear for the first time on Saturday when Adelaide plays Geelong in the NAB Cup at SKilled Stadium.

Jacobs was added to the Crows' leadership group this season.

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Replay: Blues win big in Blacktown

It is Mick Malthouse's first game as coach of Carlton. Can he start off on a winning note? Picture: Wayne Ludbey Source: Herald Sun

IT was Mick Malthouse's first match as coach of the Blues. Replay our live coverage from tonight's NAB Cup matches featuring Carlton, Sydney and GWS Giants at Blacktown here.

7:51pm AEDT - GWS Giants 7.10 (52) defeated Sydney Swans 1.3.1 (28)

IT is only the NAB Cup, but the GWS Giants will take it.

The fledgling AFL club gets its first win over the Sydney Swans at Blacktown, which is a great confidence booster for their impressive array of young kids.

So much to like about how the Giants went about it.

While for the Swans, it wasn't difficult to notice they are well behind in their preparation for Round 1.

That is what happens when you are the reigning premier and start your pre-season one month after other clubs.

But they had a stack of stars out and won't be too fussed with that.

7:34pm AEDT - GWS Giants 4.8 (32) lead Sydney Swans 1.1.1 (16)

WE'RE into the second half and it looks like the Giants are going to get a win over their cross-city rivals.

The young guns of the Giants have been inspired and look hungrier for the win.

Giant Toby Greene is best on ground to date.

But there is still over 10 minutes remaining and both sides look tired.

The Giants can't afford to ease up.

7:15pm AEDT - GWS Giants lead Sydney Swans 2.5 (17) to Sydney Swans 1.0 (6)

GREAT opening from the Giants, who kicked the first two goals of the match.

Mark Whiley and Gerald Ugle were the goalkickers.

Ryan O'Keefe replies to keep the Swans within touch.

6:40pm AEDT - Sydney Swans 3.6 (24) lost to Carlton 1.5.7 (46)

GREAT showing by Carlton, who will come away from Blacktown with the two wins.

They looked quite shaky against the Giants, but the performance against Carlton was outstanding.

Came out hard and never gave the flat Swans a sniff.

Big Shaun Hampson, Brock McLean and Marc Murphy did the damage in the middle.

New Carlton coach Mick Malthouse back in his element. Picture: Brett Costello Source: The Daily Telegraph

6:30PM AEDT - Sydney Swans 2.4 (16) trail Carlton 1.4.7 (40)

THE Swans are finally on the board.

Tommy Walsh booted their first from a set shot not long into the second half.

Then Alex Jackson received a 50 metre penalty and kicked their second.

There will be no great comeback, however.

Carlton all over them.

Swan Sam Reid takes a good mark against Carlton. Picture: Brett Costello Source: The Daily Telegraph

6:15pm AEDT - Sydney Swans 0.2 (2) trail Carlton 1.4.5 (38) at HALF-TIME

BIG man Shaun Hampson joins the Carlton party as he kicks a goal just before half-time.

At half-time, the vistors lead by 36 points as the rain starts to bucket down at Blacktown.

After a shaky performance against the Giants in the opener, the Blues have put their foot to the floor against the reigning premier.

The Swans are missing a bevy of stars, but the players on the park are struggling to get their hands on it.

Premiership hangover, anyone?

Carlton's Shaun Hampson tries to put his boot into it. Source: Getty Images

6:02pm AEDT - Sydney Swans 0.0 (0) trail Carlton 1.3.3 (30)

IT is all Carlton here.

Levi Casboult, who kicked the winner against the Giants, extended the lead to 20 points.

Then Tom Bell kicked a monster nine-point goal from 65 metres out on the run.

Sydney have barely touched the footy here.

Mick Malthouse would be very pleased with this showing to date.

Blues coach Mick Malthouse speaks to players at half-time of the clash against GWS Giants. Source: Getty Images

5:57pm AEDT - Sydney Swans 0.0 (0) trail Carlton 2.1 (13)

CARLTON are on the board nice and early against the Swans.

David Ellard gets on the end of a string of handballs to kick the opener.

It was followed up straight away by Eddie Betts, who exploded through the centre to kick a stunning goal on the run.

They are nice and warmed up now, the Blues.

5:31pm AEDT- GWS Giants 5.2 (32) lost to Carlton 4.10 (34)

HEARTBREAK for the GWS Giants as Carlton win by two points.

Levi Casboult nailed a tough set shot with 30 seconds remaining to take the lead.

The Giants controlled the match, but the Blues were able to gain some momentum late in the match and it was enough to get the win.

Terrific comeback by Carlton as MicK Malthouse gets a win in his first match in control.

Carlton will now back up against reigning premier Sydney.

Lachie Whitfield takes a mark over Carlton's Mitch Robinson. Picture: Brett Costello Source: The Daily Telegraph

5:27pm AEDT - GWS Giants lead 5.2 (32) to 3.9 (27)

THE Blues are back.

Rowe kicked his second and that was followed up by Shaun Hampson, who made no mistake from a set shot after receiving a dubious free kick.

Can the Giants hang on?

Giant Anthony Miles gets away from Carlton's Levi Casboult. Picture: Brett Costello Source: The Daily Telegraph

5:17pm AEDT- GWS Giants leader 5.2 (32) to Carlton 1.9 (15)

WELCOME to GWS, Stephen Gilham.

The Giants have skipped further ahead through the former Hawthorn defender, who made no mistake from a set shot.

Only the NAB Cup but a few concerns for Carlton.

There was no forward structure to speak of at this stage.

Blue Mitch Robinson in action against GWS Giants. Source: Getty Images

5pm AEDT - GWS Giants 4.1 (25) lead Carlton 1.6 (12) at HALF-TIME

The Giants are taking the game on here and it is showing.

Jonathon 'General' Patton looks a million bucks after a summer in the gym. He has kicked three goals and the Blues have no answer for him.

Liam Sumner has also kicked one for the home side and they lead by 13 points at half-time.

No one putting their hand up for the Blues.

Bryce Gibbs, Brock McLean and Chris Yarran are their leading possession winners to half-time.

Phil Davis (centre) and Stephen Gilham (right) of the Giants compete with Levi Casboult (left). Source: Getty Images

4:45pm AEDT - GWS Giants 1.0 (6) trails Carlton 1.3 (9)

A BAD mistake by Matthew Watson has seen the Giants kick the first game of the match.

As the ball bounced towards the GWS goal, Watson overran the ball - allowing big Jonathon Patton to run to it and kick the opener.

Carlton blew a number of early chances before San Rowe kicked the first goal for the Blues.

In first game since recovering from chemotherapy, Rowe slotted it home from a set shot.

Both teams still finding their feet in the early going.

New Carlton coach Mick Malthouse with his arch rival Kevin Sheedy. Picture: Brett Costello Source: The Daily Telegraph

4:15pm AEDT-

HELLO and welcome to our live coverage of today's NAB Cup clash from Blacktown.

It is Mick Malthouse's first game as Carlton coach and he will be looking for an instant response from his new players, who will all be looking to make an impression.

First up will be the Giants and the Blues at 4:40pm.

No.1 draft pick Lachie Whitfield will be making his debut for the Giants and he will be one to watch.

Follow the coverage with us right here!

SCHEDULE

Giants v Blues 4.40pm AEDT
Swans v Blues 5.45pm AEDT
Giants v Swans 6.50pm AEDT

FOLLOW NICK SMART ON TWITTER: @NickSmart85

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New Dees ready for judgement

Chris Dawes leads out the Demons ahead of their NAB Cup against North Melbourne. (Photo by Ryan Pierse/Getty Images) Source: Getty Images

Chris Dawes marks the ball ahead of Luke Delaney. (Photo by Michael Dodge/Getty Images) Source: Getty Images

CHRIS Dawes has urged Melbourne supporters to judge his team as a collective and not as a bunch of new players cobbled together this off-season.

The Demons squad for matches against North Melbourne and Richmond last night contained five draftees, five recycled players and Jesse Hogan, the club's GWS mini-draft pick unable to play senior footy until next season.

Dawes said it was OK to get excited about the club's new talent throughout the NAB Cup, but how those players come together as a team for the season proper is all that really counts.

"There's probably slightly more new players than a regular intake each year,'' Dawes said.

"But let's also not forget that the majority of the team is who was there 12 months ago.

"At this time of year you focus on what's new, the changes, but once the season gets underway it'll be forgotten about pretty quickly that there are new faces and we'll just be judged on our performances rather than how long we've been at the club.''

Speaking at the club's family day at Luna Park this morning, Dawes said the form of father-son selection Jack Viney and top draft pick Jimmy Toumpas was encouraging.

"I didn't see much of the Richmond match because I only played the North game and was inside recovering, but it sounds like Jimmy Toumpas kicked a goal and was lively,'' he said.

North Melbourne finish the NAB Cup triple-header against Melbourne and Richmond undefeated while the Tigers prove too good for the Demons.

"He's a really classy ball user and a good decision maker. It sounds like he went OK and will be a good player.

"Viney, has that burst speed out of packs and is a pretty tough player too. There's a lot to get excited about and it was a good hit out for those two young boys.

"As well as preparing for Round 1 you hope that individuals can find some form and I was impressed with a number of our new players - older guys like (Shannon) Byrnes and (David) Rodan as well as young Jesse Hogan, Dean Kemp who I thought impressed as well."

Dawes, playing his first game for the Dees since making the off-season switch from Collingwood, said he was happy with his form.

Dees v Roos v Tigers: How it happened

But the forward conceded a calf niggle was still causing him some grief.

"The calf is OK. I probably would have played a little bit more game time ideally, but it was just one of those things, it was starting to tighten up.

"Had it been a normal season game I would have kept playing, but it was NAB (game) one, there was no need to push it at all.''

Melbourne plays Port Adelaide in Renmark next Sunday, a trip Dawes doesn't expect to make.

"I'm not even sure how many players we'll take there,'' he said.

"But I think the plan will probably be that I'll rest up next week and play the final two NAB Cup games.''

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Crows overrun Dockers in trial match

HOLDING ON: Fremantle's Clancee Pearce looks to outmark Adelaide's Sam Kerridge. Picture: Simon Cross Source: PerthNow

COMMITMENT: Adelaide forward Josh Jenkins crashes into the post as he tries to mark. Picture: Simon Cross Source: PerthNow

FREMANTLE aren't concerned by game-ending injuries to Stephen Hill and Michael Walters in their five-point loss to Adelaide in today's trial match.

Hill copped an arm injury and Walters hurt an ankle but neither ailments were serious, Dockers coach Ross Lyon said.

The Crows, fielding five more players, over-ran the Dockers to win 13.11 (89) to 13.6 (84) at a heat-baked AAMI Stadium.

Adelaide used 30 players and their numerical advantage proved decisive in the result, particularly as Fremantle lost Walters and Hill during the game.

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Walters limped from the ground in the second quarter and Hill, who had off-season shoulder surgery, favoured his left arm when departing in the third term.

But Lyon was unfazed.

"(Walters) just had a niggle in an ankle and then he got a cork on his calf so we just tapped him out, the same as Hill," Lyon said.

"Hill had a bit of a numb arm for a minute and was just a bit vulnerable, he's pretty important to us so we tapped him out.

"He had a bit of a dead arm but he had full strength, which is a really good sign."

The Dockers booted the initial six goals and led by 35 points at halftime.

But they wilted in the 34 degree temperature as Adelaide's pre-arranged advantage in player numbers took effect - though it took the Crows until the 21st minute of the final quarter to take the lead.

Fremantle veteran Kepler Bradley had a set shot from 35 metres out with 15 seconds remaining to tie the final scores, but missed.

Lyon said he was missing eight of his top 22 but prime movers David Mundy and Nat Fyfe were influential in their first outings this pre-season.

Mundy gathered 17 disposals over four quarters while Fyfe collected 19 touches in three terms.

The dynamic duo helped Michael Barlow (27 possessions) and Tendai Mzungu (20 disposals, two goals) form a dominant midfield for the Dockers.

Adelaide's Brodie Martin kicked three goals, Josh Jenkins and Lewis Johnston both booted two and defenders Matthew Jaensch and Richard Tambling were among the Crows' best with 18 possessions each.

ADELAIDE 1.3 4.4 9.10 13.11 (89)
FREMANTLE 6.2 10.3 11.4 13.6 (84)

Goals: Adelaide - B Martin 3; L Johnston, J Jenkins, T McIntyre 2; R Henderson, T Lynch, I Callinan, S McKernan.
Fremantle - H Crozier, T Mzungu 2; M Walters, N Suban, D Mundy, Z Clarke, L Spurr, T Sheridan, L Neale, N Fyfe, C Pearce.
Best: Adelaide - M Jaensch, R Tambling, B Crouch, B Martin, S McKernan, C Ellis-Yolmen.
Fremantle - M Barlow, J Crichton, T Mzungu, D Mundy, Z Clarke, H Crozier, N Fyfe.
Umpires: L Hanssen, S Hay, C Bowen, C DeBoy.
 

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LIVE: Suns v Hawks

Picture: David Clark Source: Gold Coast Bulletin

FOLLOW all the action from tonight's NAB Cup matches featuring Gold Coast, Hawthorn and Brisbane at Metricon Stadium.

8.34pm - Suns steal victory over Hawks
Gold Coast 0.4.6 (30)
Hawthorn 0.4.5 (29)

GOLD Coast forward Luke Russell delivered victory for the Suns with behind after the siren.

Russell was the beneficiary of a free kick just seconds before the final whistle with the scores locked at 29-apiece.

The Tasmanian product slotted a behind to seal victory in front of a small but parochial Metricon Stadium crowd.

Hawthorn was dealt a double blow with small forward Paul Puopolo helped from the field after landing awkwardly on his leg.

The goalsneak came up clutching his knee but soon was able to walk off the ground unassisted.

But the Suns deserved their victory after pushing the Hawks throughout the NAB Cup hit out.

Gold Coast wasted early opportunities before Harley Bennell got them on the board with back-to-back goals.

8.25pm - Suns push Hawks
Gold Coast 0.4.4 (28)
Hawthorn 0.3.4 (22)

GOLD Coast is threatening to break the game open with back-to-back goals from Jarrod Harbow and Zac Smith.

But Hawks young gun Derick Wanganeen has responded kicking his first goal under heavy pressure.

The livewire broke a tackle close to goal and converted to cut the margin to one point.

8.20pm - Hawks, Suns do battle
Gold Coast 0.3.3 (21)
Hawthorn 0.3.4 (22)

A SLOW start to the second half with Hawthorn and Gold Coast kicking one goal apiece after nine minutes of play.

Sam Grimley gave the Hawks the perfect start racing into an open goal after gather a pass from Lance Franklin.

But the Suns responded with Jarrod Harbrow finding space inside the arc and slotting his first goal to cut the margin to one point.

Young Derick Wanganeen has shown promise in the midfield using his pace to break out of trouble.

8.04pm - Hawks hold sway at main break
Gold Coast 0.2.3 (15)
Hawthorn 0.2.4 (16)

HAWTHORN leads Gold Coast by one point at half time of its NAB Cup match at Metricon Stadium.

The Suns held an eight-point buffer mid way through the half but were unable to hold out a reshuffled Hawks outfit with Ryan Schoenmakers playing in the forward line.

Tweet your thoughts about tonight's games to @gilbertgardiner or @superfooty

Schoenmakers provided a solid target in the half getting on the end of a pass to kick his first goal and level the scores.

A flying shot on goal by Paul Puopolo close to the siren gave the Hawks the edge.

But Gold Coast would be ruing its opportunities after wasting gettable shots on goal early.

Harley Bennell has been the stand out with two goals while Karmichael Hunt is getting plenty of the football through the midfield.

Picture: David Clark Source: Gold Coast Bulletin

7.57pm - Bennell gives Suns the edge
Gold Coast 0.2.3 (15)
Hawthorn 0.1.3 (9)

GOLD Coast playmaker Harley Bennell has given the Suns an edge against Hawthorn at Metricon Stadium.

The Suns wasted a couple of early chances but enter Bennell, who with two kicks of the football, has given the Suns some breathing space.

Bennell kicked his first running into an open goal before marking about 35m out on a slight angle for his second.

Karmichael Hunt has been busy early collecting six disposals.

7.47pm - Suns waste early chances
Gold Coast 0.0.1 (1)
Hawthorn 0.1.1 (7)

POOR kicking has cost Gold Coast a dream start against Hawthorn at Metricon Stadium.

And the Hawks have made them pay with Luke Breust waltzing in for the first goal of the match.

The Suns have had all the play early wasting two gettable shots on goal in the opening minutes of play.

Steve May has been impressive early taking two marks. But May's shot for goal left  a lot to be desired, hitting the man on the mark.

May was again in the action a couple of minutes later pin-pointing enforcer Campbell Brown about 30mins out on a slight angle.

But Brown, instead of going back and slotting an easy goal, opted for a Steve Johnson-style snap which only barely registered a behind.

Picture: David Clark Source: Gold Coast Bulletin

PRE-GAME: HAWTHORN will be looking to open its NAB Cup campaign in style against Gold Coast in game of the triangular series starting at 7.40pm AEDT.

The Hawks boast a strong side despite missing key midfielders Sam Mitchell, Shaun Burgoyne, Brad Sewell and skipper Luke Hodge.

Tweet your thoughts about tonight's games to @gilbertgardiner or @superfooty

Spearhead Lance Franklin is expected to play his role in tonight's matches alongside forwards Jarryd Roughead, Luke Breust, Jack Gunston and goalsneaks Paul Puopolo and Shane Savage.

Gold Coast too will have plenty to prove with skipper Gary Ablett set to open his campaign tonight.

The Suns are missing key back Nathan Bock, on the comeback trail from a broken leg last year, Brandon Matera, Danny Stanley and Trent McKenzie.

But all eyes will be on Jaeger O'Meara ready to make his presence felt after spending 12 months in the Gold Coast system.

O'Meara was drafted as a 17-year-old access selection and spent last year in the reserves developing body and skills for the rigours of senior football.

Hawthorn defender Brian Lake will also step out for the first time in brown and gold after 197 games with the Western Bulldogs.

SCHEDULE

Suns v Hawks 7.40pm AEDT
Lions v Hawks 8.45pm AEDT
Suns v Lions  9.50pm AEDT

Follow Gilbert Gardiner on Twitter: @gilbertgardiner

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