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

• the Colts take top billing this week after an emphatic victory over Morningside on Saturday.

• Getting back to full strength, the Colts hit their straps and dominated the first quarter with 7 goals to put the match beyond doubt by quarter time. The Pies went on to win against their finals rivals by 68 points, which was a complete reversal for the Pies in their first clash 7 weeks ago when Morningside won by 64 points, a 132 point turn-around. 

• Coach Dallas Gallagher has welcomed the return of class players over the past few weeks either from injury, Qld State duties or Senior/Reserves duties  in Sean Ryan, Cade Scott, Noah Resuggan, Cam Ferguson, Jack Briskey, Darcy Prest and also had a walk-in player in Byron Kohler. With the continued improvement in Lachlan Davies, Lawson Campbell and Cooper Crowell, the Pies are playing with confidence and are well in the hunt for a flag as they expect more players to return in coming weeks.

• The Colts play the 3 bottom placed teams in their last 4 matches and if they can also defeat second placed Wilston Grange then they should secure third place and the double chance. 

• The Woodsmen had a great victory on Friday night at McCarthy Homes Oval over the ladder leaders Park Ridge. The Pies had just 16 players less than an hour before the game before scraping 19 together and trailed early before getting their noses in front at halftime but then trailed by 16 points at three quarter time. But a match winning last quarter surge when the Woodies booted four goals to one resulted in an upset 4 point victory.

• You could be forgiven for thinking the wind favoured one end, with nearly all of the scoring at the city end - but this was merely cooincidence in a tough encounter.

• The win was all the more meritorious coming up against a genuine senior side who dropped down to Friday night football this season after winning the Division 2 Premiership only last year. Sam Curtis was outstanding for the Pies being released into his more natural midfield role with the presence of hardnuts Judson, Woods and De Nys.

• Chris La Burniy was lured from retirement for the game and put in a solid display, while Matty Prior had a beast of a game in defence. Another one of the older brigade, Club President Andrew Thomson put in a tireless effort in the ruck, playing unchanged against much bigger and younger opponents!

• The Seniors are still a mathematical chance of playing finals but will have ti win their last 4 matches and rely on other results going their way. The top four teams are already final bound so it is between Mt Gravatt, Labrador and the Pies for fifth place on the ladder. Basically the Pies need Mt Gravatt to win one of their remaining 5 matches (against Labrador) and Labrador to win 2 matches from their 4 games  then all three will finish on 28  points and it will come down to percentage to decide fifth place. One loss for the Pies and it is curtains. The Pies will be looking for big wins over Sandgate and Wilston Grange to boost their percentage. 

• Looking at the Reserves they are basically out of finals contention as the teams above them should all secure enough wins to stay clear of the Pies even it the Pies won all four remaining matches

• The club has big day planned this Saturday when the Pies host Sandgate at McCarthy Home Oval at Chelmer. The club's Sportsman's Luncheon with AFL coaching legend David parkin will be held from 11.30am   to 2.30 pm.

  Parkin was a Hawthorn Premiership captain in 1971 and played 211 matches for the Hawks, winning the club B & F in 1965,  and 5 matches for Victoria from 1961-74.  He had 1 season at Subiaco in 1975. 

  His coaching career was Hawthorn (1977-80), Carlton (1981-85), Fitzroy (1986-88) and back to Carlton (1991-2000) for a total of 518 matches coached for 4 premierships.

• Parkin had his Grand Final eve premiership predicter with 10  criteria and off-hand I think he only got one wrong over about 20 years.

• The Sportsman's Luncheon has been organised by the Grey Magpies Old Boys with Shane Bridley at the helm. Shane has been doing a magnificent job resurrecting the Old Boys Association with support from Terry O'Shea and Greg Adams and re-connecting many past players and officials from a number of different eras

• for those interested the club still has a number of 50th Anniversary Commemorative Guernseys for sale at a price of $100 If you are interested in purchasing a guernsey on Saturday please see club President Andrew Thomson at the Sportsmans function. Note that over 1000 names appear on the guernsey with every Senior, Reserves, Thirds and Woodsmen player to play a game from 1968 to 2018 listed on the guernsey.   

• Last week Gut Feelings mentioned that Maroochydore will be added to the QAFL next year and it is now rumoured that Noosa may also be promoted to the QAFL for next season.

• The beautiful Magpies playing surface is looking in a bit of disrepair after a busy season, with the volunteer curators said to be tearing their hair out watching youth and senior teams continually warm up in high traffic and worn areas while the Oxley Road wing remains pristine. You would think the youngsters are allergic to the far wing it sees so little action!

• The hierarchy have been able to negotiate access next door on the old Western Districts Oval to reduce traffic in coming weeks, with the u11s and u12s training there - the 14’s and 16’s haven’t yet got the message!

• It was great to see big Gerard Moore having a run in the Senior side on the weekend after 6 years between drinks, and the big fella has lost none of his ruck craft. Coming up against the best ruck division in the competition, he more than held his own taking some strong marks and regularly winning the hitouts, particularly around the ground where his strength and nous proved invaluable.

McCarthy Homes Match Review - Pies fail to execute in disappointing loss

The Western Magpies are officially on life support with their finals hopes hanging by a thread after a disappointing loss to Morningside on Saturday.

In blustery conditions the match never reached great heights but the home side were more precise in their foot skills than the Pies. The Magpies started brightly booting 2 goals against the wind but then were only able to kick 3 more goals in three and a half quarters of football. The match was a scrappy affair but the Pies butchered the footy in tricky conditions and their decision making when looking to move the ball was a mystery to onlookers.

For the second time this season the Magpies were lucky Morningside were inaccurate in front of goal and the 21 point margin flattered the Pies. Morningside won 7.13-55 to 5.4 34, yet deep in the 2nd quarter it felt as through the Pies were controlling play before 3 late goals changed the momentum, 1 from a silly Pies error and 2 from horrendous decision making that didn’t come from the players.

However, once the home team got their noses in front they strangled the Pies out of the contest, but many a Pie forward entries found uncontested Panther players which continually cruelled the Pies chances. The Pies were guilty of overusing the ball in the windy conditions and despite regular instruction to kick the ball long and direct, for some reason still tried to finesse which often resulted in a turnover. 

Dan Edwards continued his fine season with another prolific display on a wing, Luca Winton, David Lewis and Jack Goodall worked hard in defence with Goodall again also playing on ball and up forward. Gerard Moore slotted back in senior football with aplomb with a strong display in ruck and Riley Easton was again busy on the ball with a typical bustling display, while Samson Ryan proved a handful up forward and could have been so much more dangerous if the Pies simply gave him a chance with their forward entries.

Mathematically the Magpies can make the five if they win their last 4 matches and rely on Mt Gravatt losing 4 of their 5 remaining matches, which is a possibility as the Vultures have a tough run home and the Pies clash with the Vultures could be crucial in the final wrap up.  Labrador are the other team in the chase for 5th place and they also play 3 of the top 4 teams in their final 4 matches. So the Pies are still a chance but everything has to fall their way in the final 5 rounds, with their own destiny out of their hands.

Morningside 1.6 - 12 | 4.7 - 31 | 6.12 - 48 | 7.13 - 45

defeated

Magpies 2.1 - 13 | 3.2 - 20 | 5.2 - 32 | 5.4 - 34

Best: Edwards, Winton, Goodall, Moore, Lewis, Easton

Arabon Financial - Reserves Match Review

RESERVES SUFFER DISAPPOINTING LOSS

The Western Magpies Reserves went from chocolates to boiled lollies in a week when they went down to Morningside by 74 points.

The Pies left last week's form in the change rooms as they looked like they thought it was all going to happen again by just running on the ground but they were blown away in the first quarter. The Panthers had the aid of a strong blustery wind in the first quarter but the Pies did not apply pressure and were 43 points down at quarter time. and had failed to hit the scoreboard.

To their credit they did even up the contest after quarter time and although the scoreboard showed a big loss the Pies  matched the Panthers after quarter time and had 60 % of the football in their forward half  but just could not kick goals, with 3.10 as the final tally telling the tale of the lack of accuracy.

Macauley Lonergan on the ball put in a strong display to put his hand top for an immediate senior recall, veteran Ben Jaenke-Cain worked hard in the middle of the ground and Harry Marshall was solid in the last line of defence. Liam Dwyer and Jack Austin were tireless in ruck and Val Pope also looked to be getting back to some strong form despite carrying a cold into the match. 

The Magpies are three games out of the five and are out of finals contention but can still enjoy the rest of the year starting with a win on Saturday against Sandgate at McCarthy homes Oval at Chelmer.  

Panthers 16.6 - 102 defeated Magpies 3.10 - 28

Best: Lonergan, Jaenke-Cain, Marshall, Dwyer, Austin, Pope

Goals: Lonergan, Hampel, F.Collison

Anytime Fitness - Colts Match Review

COLTS BACK TO PREMIERSHIP WINNING FORM

The Western Magpies Colts have re-discovered their premiership winning form with a powerful victory over Morningside in a complete reversal of the result from their earlier season clash.

The Pies were out of the blocks with the aid of the wind and booted 7 unanswered goals to establish a match winning lead by quarter time. The Pies had an emphatic 14.6-90 to 3.4-22 victory. 

Queensland Under 17 player Darcy Prest again impressed in the midfield, Jackson Paynter was the prime forward target at CHF and he booted three goals, speedster Sean Ryan has relished his return after missing with injury and he adds spark to the Pies around the packs, Lawson Campbell controlled play at half back, Cade Scott provided some power in the midfield contests and Lachlan Davies rucked well then was dangerous up forward with three goals.

Sean Ryan has returned to the side off the back of an injury and performed extremely well in his first few outings, while a number of other Colts have performed well after being blooded in Senior and Reserves Football, while there are still plenty of players set for a return to the side.

The Pies are in fourth place on the ladder with 2 other clubs on 24 points, one  game behind third placed Broadbeach. So the stakes in the final 4 rounds are quite high, with a double chance in the offing but also could miss out altogether. The Pies play 3 of the bottom sides in their final 4 matches so should be able to secure a finals berth but third place is the prize they are after. 

Magpies 7.3- 45 | 9.5 - 59 | 12.5 - 77 | 14.6 - 90

defeated

Panthers 0.0 - 0 | 2.1 - 13 | 2.2 - 14 | 3.4 -22

Best: Prest, Paynter, Ryan, Campbell, Scott, Davies

Goals: Paynter, Davies 3, Smith, Crowell 2, Kohler, Kante, Ferguson, Ryan

PLACE PREVIEW - ELIMINATION FINALS START EARLY FOR PIES

The Western Magpies start 5 weeks of elimination finals when they travel to Hawthorne to play the equal second Morningside in QAFL Round 14 action on Saturday.

There are 5 home and away rounds left this year and the Pies essentially have to win all of them to make the finals.

The Pies have been in most contests this season for only 3 wins but in the 8 losses just could not find a way to win the tight contests much like 2018, however one match in which they were well beaten was 6 weeks ago against Morningside. 

The Pies will be out to show that that loss was an aberration and only have to look back to 2018 when Morningside came to Sherwood for a clean sweep of victories early in the season, only for the Magpies to travel to Jack Esplen Oval and return the favour including a 100+ point demolition in the Senior game.

The Pies have three changes to the side, one forced with Claye Beams at a wedding and Jack Austin and Macauley Lonergan both go to the Reserves to regain their early season form. David Lewis has overcome an ankle with a lot of hard work to take his place in the side.

In comes key on baller Ryan Harwood after missing a match with a thigh niggle and also in is Gerard Moore for his first Senior match in six years after compelling Reserves form--he has not played a bad game this season. Moore, a previous club captain and dual Premiership player will be no stranger to the increased intensity of Senior football and will more than hold his own in the ruck battles. Also in is rugged on-baller Gareth Crawford and he was missed in the engine room after being unavailable last week. 

The Pies Intensity at the contest was good last week but it was the class of the Lions that wore them down. Morningside are a physically strong team and the Pies will need to bring their traditional "hard at it persona" to match the home team.

Moore and Samson Ryan will need to match the twin towers of Morningside to give the Pies a hope of winning the contested ball. Harwood and Crawford back in boost the Pies midfield 

Moving the ball quickly will be essentialy ot give the Pies forwards a chance one out, especially the in-form Brodie Lumber who has been marking everything in recent weeks!

Down back the Pies have generally been miserly and will need to be again to keep the Panthers forwards in check. Youngsters Riley Greene and Ethan Sivijs have grown into the role and have been leading lights this year and Luca Winton has been a model of consistency. Lewis proving his fitness is a bonus for the Pies and Brenton Saunders has been in good form across half back this year.

The Magpies are still exuding good vibes and will be out to upset the Panthers and keep their flickering finals hopes alive. 

QAFL Round 14: Western Magpies v Morningside at Morningside on Saturday, July 13th at 2.00 pm

B: Luke Mitchell  Luca Winton Brenton Saunders

HF: Riley Greene, Jack Goodall,  Ethan Sivijs

C: William Johnson  Will Fletcher Rhett Lloyd

HF: Harrison Kerr  Brody Lumber  Dan Edwards

F: Zane Lovell  Samson Ryan  Kale Reed

Rucks: Aaron Highlands

             Ryan Harwood

Rover:   Riley Easton

I/C: David Lewis Gerard Moore, Gareth Crawford, Lachie Dennis

In: Ryan Harwood, Gareth Crawford, Gerard Moore

Out: Claye Beams (wedding), Jack Austin, Macauley Lonergan  (both Reserves)

One2One Plumbing - Reserves Round 14 Preview

RESERVES CONFIDENCE UP FOR MORNINGSIDE CLASH

The Western Magpies Reserves will go into Saturdays match with the third placed Morningside at Hawthorne with renewed confidence after a strong win over ladder leaders Palm Beach-Currumbin last week.

As is often the case with Reserves, there are again a large number of changes to the side with 6 changes which on the surface leaves the side with similar strength to last week.

The team will be bolstered with the inclusion of senior players Jack Austin andMacauley Lonergan and the return of Jayden Gallagher, the consistent Chris Hunt and Zac Collison and the lion-hearted Gabe McKinnon.   

Out go Gerard Moore to well deserved Senior duties, Matt Thomson back to Redlands, Joel Workman unavailable, and the injured Rory Johnson, Ky Anderson and Mitch O'Dea. 

The Magpies payed simple more direct football last week and  they also lifted their pressure and they will need to bring a similar intensity this week if they are to cause another upset against a more fancied opponent.

The Pies have some key forward power with Austin joining Liam Dwyer  and Val Pope also lurking and Lonergan keen to sneak a few goals. Brady Allen has been moved to half forward and he will be eager to kick a few goals to show his versatility.

Down back Collison and Hunt boost the defence and  in midfield Gallagher will add some grunt to join Ben Jaenke-Cain, who was the Pies best player last week. 

If the Pies bring the same intensity and enthusiasm as they showed last week then they are more than capable of taking another scalp. 

QAFL Round 14: Western Magpies Reserves v Morningside at Morningside  on Saturday, July 13th at 11.30 am 

B: Sam Hartog  Harry Marshall  Peter Kilroy

HB:  Zac Collison Jesse Hampel  Chris Hunt

C:  Hamish Campbell  Jordan Bonney Macauley Lonergan 

HF: Matthew Mazarolle Liam Dwyer   Brady Allen 

F:  Chris Jenkins  Jack Austin  Val Pope

Rucks:  Monty Vine

             Jayden Gallagher 

Rover:   Ben Jaenke-Cain 

I/C: Finn Collison, Deng Arok, Aiden D'Roza,  Gabe McKinnon 

Gut Feelings XI - Brought to you by Regis Aged Care

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

PLACE PREVIEW - PIES CONFIDENCE UP GOING INTO CRUCIAL MATCH

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

B: Luke Mitchell  Luca Winton Brenton Saunders

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

C: Bruce Reville  Ryan Harwood  Tom Baulch

HF: Aaron Highlands Brody Lumber  Dan Edwards

F: Macauley Lonergan Jack Austin  Harrison Kerr

Rucks: Samson Ryan

             Jack Goodall 

Rover: Gareth Crawford

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

In: Kale Reed, Harrison Kerr, Aaron Highlands

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

One 2 One Plumbing - Reserves Round 12 Preview

PIES RESERVES NEED TO BOUNCE BACK

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

B:  Peter Kilroy Gabe McKinnon Sam Hartog 

HB:  Chris Hunt  Hamish Campbell  Zac Collison

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

HF:  Joel Workman  Jesse Hampel  Matt Mazarolle 

F:   Zane Lovell Harry Marshall Rhett Lloyd

Rucks:  Gerard Moore 

             Jayden Gallagher

Rover:   Rory Johnson

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

CFMG Capital - Colts Round 12 Preview

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

 B: Brodie Gardner - Whitlam Bishop - Tyler Bobin

HB: Rory Edwards - Charlie Thorpe - Jacob Aurisch

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

HF: Cade Scott - Lachlan Davies - Jonty McDougall

F: Lachlan Pearson - Cooper Crowell - Abu Kante

Foll: Jack Briskey - Darcy Prest - Sean Ryan

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

  Hagley’s Heroes

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

VALUES:

Mateship, Respect, Work Ethic, Enjoyment

BEHAVIOURS:

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

MINDSET BEFORE SKILL SET:

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

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

THINK AND ACT LIKE WINNERS ON AND OFF THE FIELD

BE THE CLUB EVERY ONE ELSE ENVIES

Gut Feelings IX - Brought to you by Regis Aged Care

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Inaugural Grey Magpies Lunch - 20 July 2019

You are invited to the 2019 Past Players & Supporters

GREY MAGPIES LUNCH

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

DATE: Saturday 20th July 2019

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

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

GUEST SPEAKER – FORMER VFL/AFL LEGEND – David PARKIN

Cost $90- Per Person (All Inclusive)

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

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

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

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

Bank: Bendigo Bank

Account Name: Sherwood Football Club

BSB: 633 000

Account Number: 151181682 (Reference: Your Full Name)

Sherwood Districts/Western Magpies Past Players & Supporters Association

THE GREY MAGPIES

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

defeated

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

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

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

Arabon Financial - Round 10 Reserves Review

PIES RESERVES IN DISAPPOINTING LOSS

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

lost to

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

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

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

Anytime Fitness - Colts Round 10 Match Review

COLTS TAKE POINTS IN TOUGH MATCH

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

defeated

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

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

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

One 2 One Plumbing - Reserves Round 10 Preview

RESERVES BOLSTERED BY STRONG INCLUSIONS

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

B: Hamish Campbell  Harry Marshall   Finn Collison

HB:  Sam Hartog . Chris Hunt  Charlie Thorpe

C:  Jayden Gallagher  Jordan Bonney  Peter Kilroy

HF: Harrison Kerr   Gerard Moore  Joel Workman  

F:  Matt Thomson  Jesse Hampel   Kale Reed  

Foll:  Liam Dwyer  Ben Jaenke-Cain Rory Johnson

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

Emerg: Deng Arok, Gabe McKinnon, Isaac Bongaarts

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

B: Luke Mitchell - Luca Winton - Brenton Saunders

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

C: Bruce Reville - Ryan Harwood - Tom Baulch

HF: Lachie Dennis -  Brody Lumber - Dan Edwards

F: Macauley Lonergan - Jack Austin - Drew Mitchell

Foll: Samson Ryan -  Jack Goodall - Gareth Crawford

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

• This event will be well publicised in coming weeks

Anytime Fitness Rocklea - 100 Senior Games for Chris Hunt

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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