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.

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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

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Majak taking small steps

North Melbourne ruckman Majak Daw provided the first highlight of the match with a strong mark backing into a pack. Picture: Wayne Ludbey Source: Herald Sun

Quick and getting quicker. Not simply exciting North Melbourne big man Majak Daw's development, but the demands as he reaches higher in his ultra-public football career.

Daw described his impressive NAB Cup form on Friday night as another small step, a sentiment echoed by coach Brad Scott and his crew keeping watch over the Sudanese-born talent.

"I came off the bench a few times and ( said to) some of the strength and conditioning coaches, it was really quick out there. It took me a while to adjust and find my feet,'' Daw said.

"Speaking to the guys after the game, they said it's only NAB Cup and, once the season comes, it gets even faster. I was really nervous early on and Brad came to me and said 'just let your instincts take over and back yourself' and that's what I did.

"It's up to me now. I know what it's like. I guess, all the learning experiences I've gained in the pre-season, hopefully, I can play a few more NAB Cup games just to see where I'm at with my footy. I'm not going to get ahead of myself.

"One of my biggest goals was to get through the pre-season and I've done that. And then getting an opportunity in the NAB Cup. I just want to build on that each week. It would be nice to play round 1, but I've still got a long way to go.''

Daw, now on the Kangaroos' list after three years as a rookie, is being groomed to take a turn as a key forward target as well as assisting No.1 ruckman Todd Goldstein.

"It's a lot more structured. If I'm up there, I've got Drewy (Drew Petrie) and Taz (Robbie Tarrant), they take pretty big marks and I've got to learn how to work with those guys. If that means blocking for one of those guys to get the ball, then I'm happy to play my role,'' he said.

"I knew I was more prepared this time around. My body wasn't strong enough to run out a game, but it's pleasing I can have an impact on the game and I expect more of myself. I've set a standard.''

The 21-year-old exudes a confidence that's not cockiness.

He scoffed at comparisons with Buddy Franklin and Nic Naitanui, but embraced the intrigue with his African heritage.

"Those guys (Franklin and Naitanui) are bona fide AFL players, so to compare me with those guys when I haven't played my first game yet ... I can't really control what happens on YouTube and all that sort of speculation. But I'm not going to get caught up in all that stuff,'' he said.

Roos ruck coach and mentor Alex Ishchenko reflected the club's determination to keep their boy on track.

"He was pretty happy with the way I went. He said it's only a small stepping stone and that I still have a long way to go. And I know that in myself,'' Daw said.

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Danger, Sloane open campaigns

Adelaide Crows in pre-season training, from left, Nathan Van Berlo, Rory Sloane and Patrick Dangerfield. Picture: Sarah Reed. Source: The Advertiser

ADELAIDE is calling back some - but not all - of its big guns for Saturday's home trial against Fremantle.

After resting nine first-choice players from the NAB Cup openers, the Crows will put into action captain Nathan van Berlo, fellow midfielders Rory Sloane and Patrick Dangerfield and unleash key forward Taylor Walker.

Midfielder Bernie Vince also has been cleared from the injury list after shoulder surgery in the summer.

But lead ruckman Sam Jacobs, club champion Scott Thompson, forward Jason Porplyzia and experienced defenders Brent Reilly and Ben Rutten will be held back as Adelaide protects its senior players for the long premiership campaign.

Walker's return to action will give Adelaide the first chance to develop an attack that this season has to deal with the defection of Kurt Tippett to Sydney.

The trial begins at 11.30. Adelaide will work 26 players with flexibility considering the 37C heat forecast at West Lakes.

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Scotland convicted over pub bashing

Carlton veteran Heath Scotland has been convicted over a pub bashing. Picture: George Salpigtidis Source: Herald Sun

CARLTON will take no further action against Heath Scotland following his conviction over a wild pub brawl that saw him hit a patron in the face, leaving him unconscious.

The NSW Director of Public Prosecutions today successfully appealed the sentence handed to Scotland, 32, who escaped conviction after pleading guilty last October to his role in the pub melee.

"Heath accepts the decision that was made in court today," Carlton football manager Andrew McKay said in a statement released this afternoon.

"The club has already imposed its own sanctions which will not change and we all look forward to putting this matter behind us."

The reigning best and fairest winner was placed on a two-year good behaviour bond for his king-hit, despite facing a maximum penalty of two years' jail.

But District Court Judge Paul Lakatos said the Magistrate presiding over the original hearing had ruled on an incorrect basis.

Namely he said it was wrong that Scotland was considered to be of "good character" despite a 2005 incident that saw him assault a woman at Crown casino.

"I consider that material says something about the character, or lack of good character, of (Mr Scotland)," he said.

"The offence is one of such seriousness a (non-conviction) is not appropriate.

"This is not the first time he comes before the courts on assault matters," he said.

In 2005, Scotland, then aged 25, faced Melbourne Magistrates' Court charged with assault and recklessly causing injury over an altercation at Next Blue in the Crown casino complex.

The court heard Scotland and a woman argued before he started flicking his drink on her clothes and in her face.

The woman pushed Scotland away and he allegedly hit her with an open hand to the right side of the face.

The court heard security ejected Scotland but he later returned and had to be thrown out again after getting into another argument with the woman.

Scotland was placed on a court diversion program, at the conclusion of which no conviction or guilty plea is recorded.

Judge Latakos said a similar system did not apply in NSW.

But because of the program, NSW police were not able to submit evidence of prior criminal history because Victorian records show there is none for Scotland.

But Judge Latakos today allowed prosecutors to submit Victoria Police LEAP records detailing the incident.

He said despite the non-conviction the assault had to be considered in relation to today's appeal.

He said it was inappropriate for Scotland to be dealt with as a "clean skin".

Last year, Scotland's lawyer argued that a conviction would jeopardise the club's reigning best and fairest winner's dream of becoming a firefighter after his football career ends.

It was the second time Scotland had used the firefighter defence after using it during hearings for the 2005 hearings.

But in a letter tendered to the court today MFB Nick Easy said even if Scotland avoided a conviction he would be ineligible to join the brigade for at last 10 years.

Scotland was today convicted and placed on a 12 month good behaviour bond.

He was previously fined $3000 and suspended for two games by Carlton.

Three other men - including Scotland's brother Brett - were convicted and fined over the Mulwala incident.

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Hawks play Hodge safe

Hawthorn is taking no risks with captain Luke Hodge. Picture: Wayne Ludbey Source: Herald Sun

HAWTHORN is prepared for captain Luke Hodge to miss the start of the AFL regular season if that helps him avoid last year's injury dramas.

The star utility was plagued by calf and knee injuries and only managed 10 games last season.

His start to the pre-season was delayed by knee surgery.

Coach Alastair Clarkson said Hodge was progressing well in his training, while the player himself hopes to be ready for the round one blockbuster against arch rivals Geelong.

"He's travelling okay and he's stepped up his training over the last two or three weeks,'' Clarkson said.

"He'll do even more so in the next two to three weeks as well.

"We're not going to rush him - round one isn't necessarily the focus for some of the older players on your list.''
Hodge is among several players who will miss Saturday's round-one pre-season cup fixture on the Gold Coast against the Suns and Brisbane.

Sam Mitchell, Jordan Lewis, Brad Sewell and Shaun Burgoyne are also not in the team.

But the lineup features Lance Franklin and Cyril Rioli, who missed the Indigenous All Stars game against Richmond earlier this month because of injury.
`
"We want to take a healthy group into our round-one game against Geelong,'' Clarkson said.

"If our more experienced players are part of that, great - if they're not, then we're not too concerned about it.''
Franklin's AFL future will be a topic for the rest of the season after he decided to postpone his contract talks with the club.

Clarkson is confident the issue will not affect the Hawks.

"I continue to treat `Bud' with the same attitude that I do with the rest of the players - that's what is critical in terms of the way we manage him,'' Clarkson said.

Former Western Bulldogs fullback Brian Lake will also make his Hawthorn debut on Saturday.
Clarkson said the immediate goal was making sure the key defender is fit and ready for round one, ahead of making sure he adapts properly to how Hawthorn's defence works.

"It doesn't necessarily mean he has to be up and going and full conducive to the way we play by round one,'' Clarkson said.

"It might take him until round 12 or longer - I'm not too sure.

"I'm sure if we get his body right, then he'll be a really good contributor for us - hopefully for a good two or three years.''

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LIVE: Tigers v Demons

North Melbourne ruckman Majak Daw provided the first highlight of the match with a strong mark backing into a pack. Picture: Wayne Ludbey Source: Herald Sun

Melbourne's father-son selection Jack Viney with his dad Todd at the MCG. Picture: Michael Klein Source: Herald Sun

FOLLOW all the action from tonight's NAB Cup matches featuring North Melbourne, Richmond and Melbourne from Etihad Stadium.

8.48pm - Tigers put paid to Demons

Richmond 1.2.9 (30)
Melbourne 0.2.2 (14)

RICHMOND disposed of Melbourne with relative ease in game two of the triangular series at Etihad Stadium.

The Tigers were never headed against the Demons cap-gun forward line deprived of polished delivery.

Tweet your thoughts on tonight's matches to @gilbertgardiner or @superfooty

The Demons relied heavily on bombing the ball inside 50 hoping to find marking targets Jeremy Howe, Jesse Hogan and Chris Dawes.

But the Tigers, through rebounding defenders Steve Morris and Bachar Houli, were able to hold the Demons at bay despite Hogan's best efforts.

The 18-year-old forward who is not eligible to play senior football until 2014 showed plenty of class attacking the ball and taking strong marks.

Ty Vickery provided one of the few second-half highlights flooring Lynden Dunn on the boundary line next to the interchange bench.

Dunn looked to push Vickery in the back prompting the fracas.

Dunn was awarded a 50m penalty but missed the set shot for goal after the siren.

Melbourne joins the Western Bulldogs as the only teams to remaining winless in the NAB Cup.

Picture: Wayne Ludbey Source: Herald Sun

8.38pm - Riewoldt, Frawley in the hands of trainers

Richmond 1.2.8 (29)
Melbourne 0.2.0 (12)

DEMON James Frawley came off second best from a marking contest in the second half against Richmond.

The key back left the field in the hands of the trainers with blood streaming from his head.

Meanwhile, Jack Riewoldt didn't escape the carnage either copping a knock to the back of the head.

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The Tigers spearhead made his way from the field to be patched up.

Earlier, Demons No.4 pick Jimmy Toumpas slotted the opening goal of the second following a strong mark.

Picture: Wayne Ludbey Source: Herald Sun

8.25pm - Tigers in control

Richmond 1.2.5 (26)
Melbourne 0.1.0 (6)

RICHMOND has a stranglehold on its match against Melbourne at Etihad Stadium.

The Tiger lead 1.2.5 (26) to 0.1.0 (6) at half time with goals to Jack Riewoldt, Ty Vickery and Bachar Houli's long drop punt from outside 50 setting up the 20-point lead.

Houli got plenty of the the ball in the first half providing dash off half back along with Brandon Ellis and Steven Morris.

Jack Watts is one of few shining lights for the Demons who face a straight sets exit after dropping game one against North Melbourne.

Watts kicked the Demons first goal after winning a 50m penalty midway through the half.

Youngster Tom Couch was busy with five touches while No.4 pick Jimmy Toumpas collected four disposals.

Picture: Getty Images Source: Getty Images

8.15pm - Demon Jack puts Dees on the board

Richmond 1.2.4 (25)
Melbourne 0.1.0 (6)

TOP draft pick Jack Watts has done it again, kicking Melbourne's first goal of the match against Richmond at Etihad Stadium.

Watts was the beneficiary of 50m penalty against Tiger Steve Morris who was pinged for running too far along the wing.

Watts was brought to the 45m-mark and made no mistake.

But Richmond leads on the back of goals to Jack Riewoldt, Ty Vickery and Bachar Houli (super goal) making it an 18-point margin.

Houli's goal was a corker streaming along the wing to half forward and clearing the pack on the goal line.

8.05pm - Jack gives Tigers the lead

Richmond 0.1.1 (7)
Melbourne 0.0.0 (0)

RICHMOND has drawn first blood against Melbourne with Jack Riewoldt converting a set shot early in the first half.

Riewoldt also had the chance to kick a second goal but missed his right foot snap from deep in the pocket.

Steven Morris and Robbie Nahas have been busy for the Tigers while Joel MacDonald and Jack Watts lead the Demons in possessions.

New Tigers skipper Trent Cotchin won the toss.

Picture: Salpigtidis George Source: Herald Sun

7.42pm - North hangs on against Dees

North Melbourne 1.4.5 (38)
Melbourne 0.5.6 (36)

NORTH Melbourne has hung on for a two-point victory in game one of tonight's NAB Cup triangular series against Melbourne.

But it wasn't without a bit of help from the Demons who missed several golden opportunities to steal victory.

Mature-aged recruit Dean Kent made a blunder of sorts converting a set shot from 50m instead of looking to dish off for a possible super goal.

Kent marked about 45m from home but had no one within range for handball for the potential match-winning play a la Geelong last week.

Cats star Jimmy Bartel marked close to the siren last week and dished off to a waiting Joel Selwood who converted the super goal to hand West Coast a first up loss.

Ben Jacobs was among the Kangaroos best along with Sam Wright and Majak Daw who showed glimpses of what's to come.

Melbourne was well served by Nathan Jones, Jesse Hogan and Nathan Jones.

The Demons return to take on Richmond from 7.50pm.

Picture: Getty Source: Herald Sun

7.29pm - North piles on the pressure

North Melbourne 1.4.4 (37)
Melbourne 0.4.5 (29)

JEREMY Howe has helped Melbourne claw its way back into the contest against North Melbourne with back-to-back goals.

Howe made no mistake from sets shots 20m out directly in front to cut the margin to three points.

But North responded with Drew Petrie making the most of a Demon Tom McDonald's fumble close to goal soccering through his first of the night.

7.24pm - North piles on the pressure

North Melbourne 1.3.3 (30)
Melbourne 0.2.2 (14)

NORTH Melbourne is threatening to break its NAB Cup match against Melbourne open with Robbie Tarrant kicking the opening goal of the second half.

Tarrant took a strong mark deep inside 50 and made no mistake from a slight angle.

But it's not all good news for the Roos with Sam Wright forced off the field after heavy knocks.

Wright has heavy strapping on his right shoulder which looked to cop the brunt of the hits.

7.17pm - Hogan keeps Dees in touch

North Melbourne 1.2.3 (24)
Melbourne 0.2.2 (14)

MELBOURNE youngster Jesse Hogan has shown glimpses of what's to come in hotly contested first half against North Melbourne at Etihad Stadium.

Hogan kept the Dees within striking distance with a cracking late goal from deep in the forward pocket.

The mini-draftee, not eligible to play senior football until 2014, bodied Kangaroos defender Scott McMahon off the ball before going back and slotting the goal on his right boot.

But North Melbourne dominated the play in the first half with goals to Lindsay Thomas, Ben Jacobs (super goal) and Lachie Hansen setting up a nine-point lead at the main break.

Jacobs has been busy early setting up the Kangaroos' first goal finding Thomas deep inside 50.

The former Port Adelaide defender then got on the end of an Andrew Swallow handball en route to kicking a 60m goal on the run.

Hard-nosed Demon Nathan Jones is the leading possession winner on the ground with 10.

Father-son recruit Jack Viney has also been busy.

Picture: Salpigtidis George Source: Herald Sun

7.05pm - Majak start for Roos

North Melbourne 1.2.21 (23)
Melbourne 0.1.2 (8)
NORTH Melbourne recruit Ben Jacobs has made a flying start to life in blue and white stripes involved in both first half goals.

Jacobs gave the Roos an eight-point buffer early in the half with a super goal from 60m.

The former Port Adelaide defender also set up the Kangaroos' first goal hitting Lindsay Thomas on the chest inside-50.

Thomas made no mistake from the set shot.

Kangaroos forward Lachie Hansen made it a 15-point margin converting his set shot from 30m out on a slight angle.

Exciting Kangaroos ruckman Majak Daw has been solid early taking a strong mark floating across half back.

With eyes only for the football, Daw drifted back into the pack taking the grab.

He also find skipper Andrew Swallow with a deft touch to help set up Jacobs' goal.

Picture: Salpigtidis George Source: Herald Sun

6.55pm - Kangas, Dees slow to start

North Melbourne 0.1. 1 (7)
Melbourne 0.1.2 (8)

MELBOURNE has drawn first blood with Jack Watts kicking a goal from directly in front.

Watts capped off a nice five minute burst by the Dees which included an errant kick for goal by midfielder Colin Sylvia.

Sylvia missed a golden opportunity to give the Dees the edge when he missed from 30m out.

But North Melbourne responded with Lindsay Thomas answering the challenge marking deep inside 50 and making no mistake.

Demon father-son prospect Jack Viney has made a solid start picking up early possessions in the midfield.

PRE-GAME: NORTH Melbourne will be out to continue an impressive week for the club when it takes on Melbourne in game one of tonight's triangular series.

The Kangaroos, fresh off re-signing Shaun Atley today, boast a strong list for the clash against a Demons outfit littered with exciting young guns and experienced recruits from rival clubs.

SCHEDULE
North Melbourne v Melbourne 6.45pm AEDT
Melbourne v Richmond 7.50pm AEDT
Richmond v North Melbourne 8.55pm AEDT

Atley's commitment follows the news of coach Brad Scott, Jack Ziebell and Daniel Wells all inking contract extensions to remain at Arden Street.

But all eyes will be on Demons father-son recruit Jack Viney and No.4 pick Jimmy Toumpas who step out for the first time in the blue and red.

Melbourne also features a forward line bolstered with the addition of Chris Dawes and Shannon Byrnes.

Tweet your thoughts on tonight's matches to @gilbertgardiner or @superfooty

It will also be the first time former Kangaroos utility Cameron Pedersen lines up against his old side after forming part of a deal which saw Jordan Gysberts traded to North Melbourne.

Gysberts is one of a number of new faces on Kangaroos list which includes rebounding defender Ben Jacobs and developing ruckmen Daniel Currie and Majak Daw.

Veteran Brent Harvey is expected to play the majority of game time in both matches while no risks will be taken with Daniel Wells and Jack Ziebell.

Harvey is not eligible to play in the regular season until Round 7 after being suspended in the Kangaroos heavy elimination final loss against West Coast.

Follow Gilbert Gardiner on Twitter: @gilbertgardiner

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Hawks to rest key midfielders

Hawthorn star Lance Franklin will open his NAB Cup campaign on Saturday. Picture: Mark Dadswell Source: Herald Sun

The Demons parted with pick No.3 for new 17-year-old priority selection, Jesse Hogan, who is not eligible to play AFL until 2014. Picture: Blair Hamish Source: Herald Sun

HAWTHORN will open its NAB Cup campaign without midfielders Sam Mitchell, Brad Sewell, Shaun Burgoyne and enforcer Jordan Lewis.

But the Hawks have left nothing to chance naming an imposing forward contingent including superstar Lance Franklin, Cyril Rioli, Jarryd Roughead, Jack Gunston, Luke Breust, Shane Savage and Paul Puopolo.

Recruit Brian Lake will also step out for the first time in brown and gold when the Hawks take on Brisbane and Gold Coast on Saturday at Metricon Stadium.

Youngsters Derick Wanganeen, Taylor Duryea, Angus Litherland, Sam Grimley and Luke Lowden will be given a chance to impress Hawks coach Alastair Clarkson during the triangular series.

Marc Murphy (above), Andrew Carrazzo and Kade Simpson are officially in contention to replace Chris Judd as leader at Carlton, but it has effectively become a two-horse race between Carrazzo and Murphy. Picture: Wayne Ludbey Source: Herald Sun

CARLTON has named cancer survivor Sam Rowe on its extended list for Sunday's NAB Cup matches against Sydney and Greater Western Sydney.

Rowe sat out the 2012 campaign after being diagnosed with testicular cancer. The key forward underwent chemotherapy on the way to beating the grade one (the lowest grade) cancer.

SCROLL DOWN FOR EXTENDED NAB CUP SQUADS

The Blues boast a strong line up including captaincy hopefuls Andrew Carrazzo, Marc Murphy, Kade Simpson and Nick Duigan, who will lead the team against Sydney on Sunday.

Meanwhile, Murphy will captain the side against Greater Western Sydney.

Carlton stars Chris Judd and Matthew Kreuzer have been rested.

Gary Ablett says Jaeger O'Meara, right, could be the next captain of the Gold Coast Suns. Picture: Glenn Hampson Source: Gold Coast Bulletin

GOLD Coast captain Gary Ablett looks set to open his NAB Cup campaign against Hawthorn and Brisbane on Saturday.

Recruits Tom Murphy and Greg Broughton will also be making their debuts for the Suns alongside elite youngsters Jaeger O'Meara, Jesse Lonergan and Jack Martin.

BRISBANE will unleash highly-rated youngster Sam Docherty in a Lions' outfit missing co-captain Jonathan Brown.

A rebounding defender with a booming right foot, Docherty is expected to push for senior selection in 2013.

Lions recruits Brent Moloney and Stef Martin have also been named in the extended 33-man squad.

Jarrad McVeigh and Jude Bolton with the 2012 AFL premiership cup Picture: Phil Hillyard Source: The Daily Telegraph

SYDNEY has named four draftees in a line up which includes two sets of brothers and a string of premiership stars.

Swans first round selection Dean Towers (overall pick No.22) and powerful mid-sized forward Tim Membrey are expected to make their debuts.

The Bloods squad includes brothers, Kieren and Brandon Jack, and, Ted and Xavier Richards.

Sydney is expected to play a number of premiership players including co-captain Jarrad McVeigh, Dan Hannebery, Ryan O'Keefe and Jude Bolton.

Rated father-son prospect Tom Mitchell will also be given a chance to impress after a mixed 2012 campaign in the reserves.

Mitchell, who collected 42 disposals, six marks and a goal in 70 minutes, battled a niggling knee injury last year.

The Demons have parted with pick No.3 for new recruit Jesse Hogan, a 17-year-old not eligible to play AFL until 2014. Picture: Blair Hamish Source: Herald Sun

MELBOURNE has sought advice from two rival AFL clubs on how best to develop exciting key forward Jesse Hogan this season.

The Demons spoke with Gold Coast and Adelaide about their 17-year-old midfielders Jaeger O'Meara and Brad Crouch playing with the Suns reserves and SANFL club West Adelaide last season.

Hogan, ineligible for the AFL this season after being picked up in the 2012 GWS mini-draft, will be given senior experience against North Melbourne and Richmond in the NAB Cup first round at Etihad Stadium tomorrow night.

Coach Mark Neeld said Demons officials gleaned information from the Suns and the Crows on how O'Meara and Crouch progressed while playing in local leagues.

"So, there are some good examples around if you do the right thing and don't put too many expectations on them, it will be a great year for learning for Jesse," Neeld said.

"At times this year, he's going to get frustrated that we know he can't play league footy. But we know it's a good lead-in."

Melbourne has AFL permission to play Hogan in the NAB Cup. And, with Mitch Clark out, it's valuable experience for the 18-year-old before he spends the season with Casey Scorpions.

West Australian teenager Dean Kent will join young midfielders Jack Viney and Jimmy Toumpas to press their claims against the Roos and Tigers.

Kent, a hard-at-the-ball left-footer from Clackline, about 80km northeast of Perth, earned his NAB Cup chance with strong work in the first intraclub match at Cranbourne last Friday.

Kangaroos veteran Brent Harvey is loving North Melbourne's match training sessions with Geelong. Picture: Wayne Ludbey Source: Herald Sun

NORTH Melbourne new boy Jordan Gysberts didn't have to wait long to run into old teammates - the traded Demon will play the opening game against his former club.

Veteran Roo Brent Harvey, suspended for the first six rounds, will play both games, while Daniel Wells (achilles) and Jack Ziebell (knee) are being eased back.

Ziebell underwent a minor knee operation last month and was in doubt to make an appearance in the early rounds of the preseason competition.

The Kangaroos have also named former Port Adelaide defender Ben Jacobs in a near full-strength squad which includes developing ruckman Majak Daw.

Mature-aged recruit Daniel Currie is the only untried Kangaroo to make the cut with 2012 National Draft picks Taylor Garner (15), Mason Wood (41) and Mitchell Wilkins (47) missing out.

Hard-nosed midfielder Leigh Adams remains the only senior Kangaroo on the sidelines.

Young guns Kieran Harper, Shaun Atley and Ben Cunnington will also be out to impress ahead of the home and away season.

RICHMOND star Trent Cotchin will step out as captain for the first time when the Tigers take on Melbourne in game two of Friday night's NAB Cup matches.

Cotchin replaced stalwart Chris Newman as skipper during the off-season.

The Tigers' squad includes ball magnets Brett Deledio, Shane Tuck and spearhead Jack Riewoldt.

Young gun Dustin Martin has also been named along with rebounding defenders Brandon Ellis and Bachar Houli.

The Tigers look set to unveil No.9 pick Nick Vlastuin, speedster Steven Verrier and mature-aged recruits Aaron Edwards (North Melbourne), Chris Knights (Adelaide), Ricky Petterd (Melbourne).

FRIDAY at Etihad Stadium
North Melbourne v Melbourne 6.45pm AEDT
Melbourne v Richmond 7.50pm AEDT
Richmond v North Melbourne 8.55pm AEDT
SATURDAY at Metricon Stadium
Gold Coast v Hawthorn 5.40pm AEDT
Brisbane Lions v Hawthorn 7.45pm AEDT
Gold Coast v Brisbane Lions 8.50pm AEDT


SUNDAY at Skoda Stadium
Greater Western Sydney v Carlton 4.40pm AEDT
Sydney Swans v Carlton 5.45pm AEDT
Greater Western Sydney v Sydney Swans 6.50pm AEDT



TEAMS

CARLTON

1. Andrew Walker, 3.Marc Murphy, 4. Bryce Gibbs, 6. Kade Simpson, 7. Dylan Buckley, 9. Kane Lucas, 10. Matthew Watson, 11. Robert Warnock, 12. Mitch Robinson, 13. Chris Yarran, 14. Brock McLean, 15. Jeremy Laidler, 16. Andrew Collins, 17. Sam Rowe, 19. Eddie Betts, 20. Rhys O'Keeffe, 21. Josh Bootsma, 22. Shaun Hampson, 23. Lachie Henderson, 24. Patrick McCarthy, 27. Dennis Armfield, 28. Tom Bell, 31. Marcus Davies, 34. Nick Duigan, 35. Ed Curnow, 38. Jeff Garlett, 40. Michael Jamison, 41. Levi Casboult, 42. Zach Tuohy, 43. Simon White, 44. Andrew Carrazzo, 45. Aaron Joseph, 46. David Ellard



GREATER WESTERN SYDNEY  

1. Phil Davis, 2. Curtly Hampton, 4. Toby Greene, 5. Dylan Shiel, 6. Lachie Whitfield, 7. Rhys Palmer, 9. Tom Scully, 10. Devon Smith, 11. Taylor Adams, 12. Jonathon Patton, 13. Sam Darley, 14. Tomas Bugg, 15. Tim Golds, 16. Nathan Wilson, 17. Adam Treloar, 18. Jeremy Cameron, 20. Adam Tomlinson, 21. Matt Buntine, 22. Shaun Edwards, 23. Sam Reid, 25. Anthony Miles, 26. Jonathan Giles, 28. Liam Sumner, 30. Lachie Plowman, 31. Jacob Townsend, 32. Gerald Ugle, 35. Aidan Corr, 37. Setanta O'hAilpin, 38. Stephen Gilham, 39. Tim Mohr, 40. Adam Kennedy, 42. Mark Whiley, 43. Kurt Aylett, 48. Sam Frost



SYDNEY SWANS

1. Tim Membrey, 3. Jarrad McVeigh, 4. Daniel Hannebery, 5. Ryan O'Keefe, 6. Tom Mitchell, 7. Harry Cunningham, 9. Nick Malceski, 11. Jed Lamb, 12. Josh Kennedy, 13. Andrejs Everitt, 14. Craig Bird, 15. Kieren Jack, 17. Tommy Walsh, 18. Jesse White, 19. Tony Armstrong, 20. Sam Reid, 22. Dean Towers, 23. Jordan Lockyer, 24. Jude Bolton, 25. Ted Richards, 26. Luke Parker, 28. Matthew Dick, 30. Lewis Roberts-Thomson, 31. Harry Marsh, 32. Lewis Jetta, 33. Brandon Jack, 34. Alex Johnson, 35. Sam Naismith, 36. Alex Brown, 38. Mike Pyke, 39. Heath Grundy, 42. Xavier Richards, 43. Dane Rampe, 44. Jake Lloyd, 46. Shane Biggs

BRISBANE LIONS

1.Sam Docherty, 2. Ryan Harwood, 3. Brent Moloney, 5. Billy Longer, 6. Josh Green, 8. Rohan Bewick, 9. Ashley McGrath, 10. Daniel Rich, 12. Stefan Martin, 13. Callum Bartlett, 15. Dayne Zorko, 17. Claye Beams, 18. Todd Banfield, 19. Jordan Lisle, 21. Daniel Merrett, 22. Marco Paparone, 24. Joel Patfull, 25. Richard Newell, 26. Elliot Yeo, 28. Patrick Karnezis, 29. Andrew Raines, 30. Jack Redden, 31. James Polkinghorne, 35. Ryan Lester, 36. Matt Maguire, 37. Patrick Wearden, 38. Tom Rockliff, 40. Niall McKeever, 41. Mitch Golby, 42. Justin Clarke, 44. Aaron Cornelius, 46. Sam Michael, 48. Stephen Wrigley

GOLD COAST

1. Jaeger O'Meara, 2. Zac Smith, 3. Jared Brennan, 4. Maverick Weller, 5. Jarrod Harbrow, 6. Alex Sexton, 7. Karmichael Hunt, 8. Luke Russell, 9. Gary Ablett, 11. Harley Bennell, 12. Sam Day, 13. Jacob Gillbee, 14. Matthew Warnock, 15. Daniel Gorringe, 16. Rory Thompson, 17. Steven May, 19. Tom Lynch, 21. Jeremy Taylor, 23. Charlie Dixon, 24. David Swallow,  26. Matt Shaw, 29. Tom Murphy, 30. Campbell Brown, 31. Jackson Allen, 33. Aaron Hall, 34. Jack Hutchins, 35. Michael Rischitelli, 36. Greg Broughton, 37. Jesse Lonergan, 38. Joel Wilkinson, 40. Andrew Boston, 42. Kyal Horsley


HAWTHORN

2. Jarryd Roughead, 4. Matthew Suckling, 6. Josh Gibson, 10. Bradley Hill, 13. Kyle Cheney, 14. Grant Birchall, 16. Isaac Smith, 17. Brian Lake, 18. Brent Guerra, 19. Jack Gunston, 20. David Hale, 21. Shane Savage, 22. Luke Breust, 23. Lance Franklin, 24. Ben Stratton, 25. Ryan Schoenmakers, 27. Matt Spangher, 28. Paul Puopolo, 29. Will Langford, 30. Luke Lowden, 31. Angus Litherland, 32. Jonathan Simpkin, 33. Cyril Rioli, 34. Jordan Kelly, 35. Sam Grimley, 37. Jed Anderson, 38. Mitch Hallahan, 39. Max Bailey, 40. Tim O'Brien, 41. Taylor Duryea, 42. Kaiden Brand, 43. Amos Frank, 46. Derick Wanganeen, 47. Jonathon Ceglar

NORTH MELBOURNE

1. Daniel Currie, 2. Brad McKenzie, 3. Ryan Bastinac, 4. Liam Anthony, 5. Ben Jacobs, 6. Lachlan Hansen, 7. Jack Ziebell, 8. Daniel Wells, 9. Andrew Swallow, 10. Ben Cunnington, 11. Michael Firrito, 12. Lindsay Thomas, 14. Jordan Gysberts, 15. Luke Delaney, 16. Scott Thompson, 17. Nathan Grima, 18. Shaun Atley, 19. Sam Wright, 20. Drew Petrie, 22. Todd Goldstein, 23. Kieran Harper, 24. Levi Greenwood, 25. Robbie Tarrant, 28. Will Sierakowski, 29. Brent Harvey, 30. Tom Curran, 31. Cameron Delaney, 34. Jamie Macmillan, 35. Aaron Black, 38. Majak Daw, 41. Aaron Mullett, 42. Scott McMahon, 43. Sam Gibson, 46. Ben Speight

MELBOURNE

1. Jesse Hogan, 2. Nathan Jones, 4. Jack Watts, 5. Jimmy Toumpas, 6. Chris Dawes, 7. Jack Viney, 8. James Frawley, 10. Shannon Byrnes, 12. Colin Sylvia, 13. Jordie McKenzie, 14. Lynden Dunn, 15. David Rodan, 17. Sam Blease, 19. James Strauss, 20. Colin Garland, 21. Cameron Pedersen, 22. James Magner, 25. Tom McDonald, 26. Daniel Nicholson, 27. Tom Gillies, 28. Joel Macdonald, 30. James Sellar, 31. Jack Grimes, 32. Michael Evans, 34. Dean Kent, 36 Aaron Davey, 38. Jeremy Howe, 39. Neville Jetta, 40. Mark Jamar, 42. Jake Spencer, 45. Matt Jones, 46. Dean Terlich, 47. Tom Couch, 48. Jack Fitzpatrick

RICHMOND

1. Chris Newman, 3. Brett Deledio, 4. Dustin Martin, 5. Brandon Ellis, 6. Shaun Grigg, 7. Matt Dea, 8. Jack Riewoldt, 9. Trent Cotchin, 10. Shane Edwards, 11. Jake Batchelor, 12. David Astbury, 13. Ricky Petterd, 14. Bachar Houli, 15. Chris Knights, 16. Luke McGuane, 18. Alex Rance, 20. Ivan Maric, 21. Shane Tuck, 23. Daniel Jackson, 24. Ben Griffiths, 26. Robin Nahas, 27. Aaron Edwards, 29. Ty Vickery, 30. Reece Conca, 31. Nick Vlastuin, 35. Matt White, 36. Matt McDonough, 37. Orren Stephenson, 38. Steven Morris, 39. Tom Derickx, 43. Todd Elton, 44. Matthew Arnot, 45. Brett O'Hanlon, 49. Steven Verrier

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Scott, Wells ink new deals

North Melbourne looks set to extend coach Brad Scott's stay. Picture: Michael Klein Source: Herald Sun

NORTH Melbourne has re-signed coach Brad Scott and star midfielder Daniel Wells through to the end of 2016.

As exclusively revealed by the Sunday Herald Sun, the Kangaroos reached an agreement with Scott on a new deal late last year after he led the club to its first finals series since 2008.

Wells' contract extension all but ensures the 28-year-old 2002 No.2 pick will finish his career at Arden St.

Scott commended Wells and co-vice captain Jack Ziebell for inking contract extensions.

"To have players of the calibre of Daniel and Jack re-sign sends a great message to our supporters," Scott said.

"It's a vote of confidence that our players want to say here."

Kangaroos chief executive Carl Dilena said the club regarded Scott as the "best" young coach in football.

"His commitment to be part of the future of the club is exciting, and we are confident he is the man to take North Melbourne to its fifth premiership," Dilena told the club's website.

Scott took control of the Roos in 2010. He has won 35 of his 67 games as coach of the club, with a 52 per cent winning record.

After finishing ninth in his first two seasons as coach, last season the club won 14 games, including 10 of their last 13.

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