Crocs Down Dockers In Hamburg Thriller

June 10, 2018, 1:24 pm

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Billed as the match of the season to date prior to the ball being bounced, the clash between the Hamburg Dockers and the Berlin Crocs promised plenty. The clash between the reigning premiers and the undefeated Dockers delivered in spades with the Crocs holding on for a one-point victory.

It was a win against the odds in many ways for the Crocs. Travelling to Hamburg to meet the Dockers on their home soil would have been tough enough, but the fact that the Dockers sat undefeated gave them an air of not invincibility, but certainly strength.

The Crocs started well, however, and jumped early to a 33 to 16 quarter time lead. The Dockers came back at them in the second quarter to reduce the margin to just nine points by the main break, the Crocs still leading 46 to 37. The question would be whether the Crocs could capitalise on their narrow first half lead.


Wayward kicking was starting to hurt the Dockers. They had more scoring shots that the Crocs in the third quarter, yet the Crocs were able to extend their lead to an even two goals by the final break (65 to 53), and it is just as well they did.

The Dockers threw everything at the Crocs in the final term, and played the perfect defensive game, keeping the Crocs scoreless for the last quarter. But that hard work was undone by their kicking at goal. The Dockers managed just one goal from their six scoring shots in the final quarter, which was enough for the Crocs to hold on by the narrowest of margins, recording a one-point win in a wonderful game to watch.

Rowan Miegel kicked seven goals for the victorious Crocs while Sean Gilbert kicked four for the Dockers. The victory for the Crocs sees them now just a game behind the top placed Dockers but in third place.

The Munich Kangaroos remain in second place after a big win against the Frankfurt Redbacks on the road. Their 107-point victory showed a merciless streak as the Roos look to challenge the Dockers for top spot as well. The loss was a big setback for the Redbacks as they dropped out of the top four, replaced by the Rheinland Lions.

The Lions travelled to Dresden to record a strong win on the road against the Wolves to draw level with the Redbacks on points but with a superior for and against record. The loss sees the Dresden Wolves anchored to last place on the ladder.

Round Six next weekend sees a single match with the Württemberg Giants hosting the Frankfurt Redbacks in Esslingen. It is a vital match for both teams and promises to be a huge game. For the Redbacks, a win sees them stay in the finals race. The Giants are keen for another win to keep their own faint finals race alive, but also to continue their own growth with another scalp.

Final Scores:
Berlin Crocs 10 5 65 d Hamburg Dockers 8 16 64
Munich Kangaroos 20 13 133 d Frankfurt Redbacks 3 8 26
Rheinland Lions 114 d Dresden Wolves ...

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Mason Cox – A Royal Command Performance

June 11, 2018, 2:25 am

≫ Next: Zagreb Hosts Opening CEAFL Tournament For 2018

≪ Previous: Crocs Down Dockers In Hamburg Thriller

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In footballing terms, there can be no better way to celebrate the Queen’s Birthday than to party on down with her in the game which celebrates her special day – the Queen’s Birthday clash between traditional rivals Collingwood and Melbourne. It is one of the biggest matches on the AFL calendar and a day for the greats to shine – which is exactly what American Mason Cox did today.

In a performance that earned him the trophy for best afield, the Neale Daniher Trophy, Cox joined other past stars such as Scott Pendlebury, Dane Swan, Max Gawn, Aaron Davey and Travis Cloke in receiving the honour. There was nothing “average” about Cox today – he proved emphatically that his days as a novelty player are done – replaced by a footballer who seriously can play the game and is getting better each outing.

He will be best remembered for his five-goal effort (and one behind) across the four quarters today. Not only did he take towering pack marks, he also brought smaller players into contests. Seemingly unsatisfied with his two metre plus height, Cox was also content hurling himself a few extra metres into the air, hoping to add a big “hanger” to his expanding repertoire of skills.


Cox had his first goal, and the first of the game, inside of two minutes into the first quarter. He kicked his second mid-way through the quarter. By three-quarter time, he had four goals and added another early in the last. He didn’t score again, but by then the damage was done and Collingwood were more than five goals in front. His efforts up forward were enormous for Collingwood and directly helped set up the win – which they duly did, downing the Demons 20 13 133 to 14 7 91.

However, there was much more to his game than the scoreboard. He totalled 16 possessions for the match (twelve kicks and four handpasses) of which an impressive nine were contested possessions. Not only did he hit the scoreboard six times, he also added three inside 50’s to his stats and nine hit-outs when he was giving Brodie Grundy a rest. Throw in a tackle and a couple of one percenters (the important little team acts) and this match may have been his most complete playing performance yet.

It certainly wasn’t his five goals that earned him the trophy – it was his involvement across all aspects of the game which impressed.

The native of Dallas, Texas, has worked very hard to chase a dream and succeed at AFL level. In the process, he has inspired footballers from across the world to share a similar dream. He has proved that hard work rather than luck is the real measure of how far a player can go – along with a liberal dose of talent.

To achieve what he did today in the Queen’s Birthday match in front of more than 83,000 fans at the MCG makes his game even more impressive. In fact, Cox is making something of a big occasion player of himself. After two Queen’s Birthday and three ANZAC Day matches over the past three season’s he has kicked an impressive ten goals six behinds.

But, of all of his games, today’s effort was truly a royal command performanc ...

Zagreb Hosts Opening CEAFL Tournament For 2018

June 12, 2018, 5:02 am

≫ Next: Three Into Two Just Will Not Go – AFL London

≪ Previous: Mason Cox – A Royal Command Performance

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The Zagreb Cvjetno Dockers have taken the honours for the opening round of the CEAFL (Central European Australian Football League) tournament for 2018, held over the weekend in Zagreb. After an enthralling day’s action, the Dockers held off the Velika Gorica Bombers in the final to head the ladder after the first of two tournaments – the other to be played later in the year in Prague in the Czech Republic.

The Dockers topped their pool after the initial two matches per side before winning their semi-final. The Bombers had a rockier road, but still managed to win their way to the final. The Zagreb Hawks downed the Sesvete Double Blues to take third place. The Styrian DownUnderdogs from Austria defeated the Prague Dragons by a solitary point in a thrilling battle for fifth and sixth places on the day.


The day also featured a women’s match with the Zagreb Panthers becoming two teams for the event. The Panthers Black defeated the Panthers Blue 26 to 24.

The competition sees teams from three Central European nations – Croatia, Austria and the Czech Republic - play a dual-tournament series across the season, with a winner in each country and an overall winner decided after the final tournament. The victory in Zagreb for the Dockers places them in a very solid position to set up for enough wins in Prague to take the overall 2018 title – but time will tell.

Both the Bombers and the Hawks performed well on the day an cannot be discounted, especially as the top three teams, all from Croatia, now hand over home ground advantages to the Austrian and Czech teams which will level the playing field a little.

The next tournament for the series will be held in Prague on September 1st.

Already this competition is important for the growth of the game in those nations involved. With the possible re-inclusion of Italy across coming seasons and maybe even a team from Switzerland in the future, the CEAFL may yet grow further in size and importance to European footy.

All scores to be confirmed and advised shortl ...

Three Into Two Just Will Not Go – AFL London

June 13, 2018, 12:43 am

≫ Next: AFL 2018 International Broadcast Schedule - Round 13

≪ Previous: Zagreb Hosts Opening CEAFL Tournament For 2018

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After five rounds of the AFL London season, the Men’s Premiership Division has a logjam for top two places come finals time. The North London Lions are keeping pace with the Wandsworth Demons and West London Wildcats in the battle for top spot. It is a battle that will intensify over the second half of the season as teams set themselves up for the best chance of a premiership.

Weekend results saw the Lions thump the Hawks by 108 points, whilst the Demons were equally brutal against the Swans with a 100-point demolition. The West London Wildcats watched on, aware that they have two quality opponents to deal with. Next weekend they get their turn to consolidate further when they take on the Wimbledon Hawks.

In the match of the round next weekend, the North London Lions will host the Wandsworth Demons. The winner will take a huge points and psychological advantage into the next phase of the season.

Come the day of the grand final, only two of the Lions, Demons and Wildcats will be there, but on current form all three deserve to be there – but maths and rules will not allow that. Instead, there will be a race to the finish line featuring a war of attrition, with the first team to link missing out.

The weekend’s round also saw the Wandsworth Demons host their “Big Freeze On The C” event to raise funds for Moor Neurone Disease. Organisers were delighted with the support and the funds raised, with the event being described as a “roaring success”.

Final Scores

Men’s Premiership:
North London Lions 19 18 132 d Wimbledon Hawks 3 6 24
Wandsworth Demons 17 13 15 d London Swans 2 3 15

Women’s Premiership:
West London Wildcats 6 5 41 d South East London Giants 2 3 15
North London Lions 4 10 34 d Wimbledon Hawks 1 7 13

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AFL 2018 International Broadcast Schedule - Round 13

June 14, 2018, 2:47 am

≫ Next: Historic Grand Final For Colombia

≪ Previous: Three Into Two Just Will Not Go – AFL London

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Round 13 of the 2018 AFL Season kicks off tonight in Adelaide with Port Adelaide hosting the Western Bulldogs. 

The full broadcast schedule for the round can be seen below.

In addition to the TV networks you can also subscribe to the Watch AFL service that will give you live access to all the matches and more (outside Australia only).

You can access that service by clicking on the link here or the Watch AFL promo shot on the left to register and by then paying the subscription fee.

Right now Watch AFL is offering a Mid-Season Pass a big discount on the regular season pass. This pass includes all AFL Premiership season matches, the Finals Series plus access to FOX FOOTY content.

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

  

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 All times subject to change - please check with your local guides ...

Historic Grand Final For Colombia

June 14, 2018, 2:04 pm

≫ Next: A Journey From Cairns To Arden Street

≪ Previous: AFL 2018 International Broadcast Schedule - Round 13

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The inaugural season of the CAFL (Colombia Australian Football League) will come to a satisfying close this weekend when the nation’s first ever Aussie Rules grand final will be played in the capital city of Bogota. It will bring to an end a season were Aussie expats have blended beautifully with local Colombian talent to see the rise of the game in South America that only a couple of years ago was a dream.

The match will feature the Bogota Bullants up against the DC Aguilas. The Bogota Bombers missed out on reaching the big day, yet remained a highly competitive third team, even downing the Bullants along the way.

AFL Colombia president, Paddy Smallwood, previews the match.

“The grand final should be a solid affair. The D.C Aguilas are coming in favourites off three wins on the trot, and the Bullants' last game being the bloodbath [against the Bombers]. The Aguilas team has been a consistent group all year, which has allowed the drastic improvement of their fleet of Colombian guns.”


“The Bullants started with a very powerful team, but injuries and some big names returning home to Australia has flipped their season upside down.”

“For the final, the Aguilas go in with a very similar team to the one they have had all year. While the Bullants regain their captain James and a number of other important players who were absent in their last belting at the hands of the Bombers.”

“The Aguilas go in very much with the psychological edge, but I do expect the Bullants to give it a good crack and have a high possibility of causing a huge upset.”

It will be a great way to bring a wonderful debut season to a close for the Bogota-based Colombian competition. It is a credit to all organisers, players, volunteers and supporters who have banded together to firmly plant the Australian football flag in Colombia. They compliment the wonderful work of their brothers and sisters in Chile, the Santiago Saints, seeing the game with strongholds now in two South American countries.

After the grand final, attention will turn to the Bogota Bulldogs team and their defence of the Andes Cup against the Santiago Saints on 25th August in Bogota. The game will be played as part of the South American Cricket Championships, making for even greater exposure for the gam ...

A Journey From Cairns To Arden Street

June 17, 2018, 3:06 am

≫ Next: Roos Reach Out To Finals

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Prologue: It was 2009 and a nine year old girl, Elisha King, was playing for Hambledon State School in their first ever girl’s carnival. Almost three years younger than most of the other girls on the field, Elisha had to be given special consideration to be allowed to play. Thankfully, she was allowed and was by far the best Hambo girl on the field, with three goals on the day, as the team finished runners-up to St Joseph’s school by a solitary point. 

It was the start of my own three-year period of coaching Elisha in school teams, but more significantly, it was another step on a journey that has seen Elisha selected by the North Melbourne Kangaroos AFLW team. The girl who promised so much back when women’s and girls’ footy barely existed has made it to the highest level of the game – and that makes a great story. 

Jodi King is one proud mum. It is almost certain that without incredible family support, Elisha would most likely not have made it this far. According to Jodi, “Elisha’s journey has been very long. She started at the age of six with Auskick.  [Elisha’s early footy saw her] playing alongside [older brother] Hayden and watching [older brother again] Aaron play.  At the age of nine, Elisha also got involved in basketball and hockey. It was very hard for Elisha to stay with footy and she was making rep teams in both hockey and footy.”

Jodi and family certainly provided plenty of incentive to follow the family line and play Australian Rules footy. Jodi added, “Elisha’s father played footy in Melbourne in the VFL and also with Oakleigh in the VFA. Aaron played rep footy with Peninsula and Cairns Lions and was also picked for Queensland as an umpire and in their academy. Hayden played rep footy for Peninsula and Lions. We have all been mad Carlton supporters and are good friends with the Kernahans.” 

Elisha has now made the move down to Melbourne to be part of North Melbourne’s inaugural AFLW team. Like all of their recruits, the rest of 2018 is about preparation for the 2019 season.  However, taking time to reflect on her own journey, Elisha stated, “I just loved playing footy and it was so good trying to play better than the boys. I won the league’s [AFL Cairns] Best and Fairest in Under 12s and was the first girl to do this. This is what kept me motivated.” History will reflect that very few girls have ever won best and fairest awards in predominantly boy’s teams. 

“I represented Cairns Dolphins in basketball and also represented Queensland in hockey in Under 12’s, 15’s ,and 18’s and was part of their academy. It would have been easy to stick with hockey but my heart was always with AFL. [But I went from] school footy to Peninsula [regional] to Queensland school girls as well as Cairns Hawks juniors to Lions with the boys.” 

‘When I was twelve I got invited to play in the Cairns Lions’ Under 18 team to go to the State Championships where I was selected in the Queensland Under 18 team to travel to Melbourne. I was a part of that Queensland team for five years and in their academy.” 

“When I finished Year 12, I moved to Brisbane and worked with AFL Brisbane South as a Trainee Developed Officer. I was also training with the Brisbane Lions but tore my ACL which ruled me out of being drafted.” 

Whether Elisha likes it or not, she has been a role model already to many young girls and that role is set to grow further as she becomes a player to look up to as a Kangaroo. When asked how the concept of role model sat with her, Elisha responded that she “didn't think about it back then. [But] working in Brisbane and teaching young kids [about] this wonderful game, I hope that the girls looked up to me and know that with hard work and dedication you can achieve anything.”

When asked about the future for Elisha King, she replied, “[I’m] not sure what is next for me but at the moment it's all about training hard, staying fit and injury free ready for the 2019 season.” Her new life as a North Melbourne Kangaroo has begun and so has the next phase of her life. 

The biggest current dilemma in the King household is whether Elisha’s selection by the Kangaroos will see the family allegiance swing from Carlton to North Melbourne. Elisha’s opinion is that “I'm pretty sure they will stay with Carlton but I'll make sure that they buy and wear the Roos jumper when they come to watch me. They can stay Blues for the men and Roos for the women.” 

Since 2009, I have coached girl’s footy teams and watched the development of the game at grass roots level with interest. If there was one thing lacking it was a local role model at the highest levels of the game that could be adopted by local girls as a tangible example of how far a local girl can go.

Now we have Elisha and we can proudly watch her progress in the AFLW. We can also continue the search for the next Elisha King. We wish her every continued success on an incredible journey that still has many chapters to be read.

 

Picure Credits: Top (North Melbourne FC), bottom (King Family)

 

 

 

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Roos Reach Out To Finals

June 17, 2018, 5:11 pm

≫ Next: Mozzies Power Up For Another Flag Tilt

≪ Previous: A Journey From Cairns To Arden Street

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The Kingdom Kangaroos moved another step closer to a finals berth on the weekend when they downed the Greater Glasgow Giants by two goals in wet conditions at home in Kirkcaldy. The win puts them in prime position to hold on to third place come finals time and wait for the vagaries of finals football to determine their future.

The defeat for the Giants puts them in an unwanted but nonetheless unique position. They remain winless at the base of the ladder with only a mathematical chance of finals action. Worse, they are perilously close to dropping from premiers to wooden spoon in the space of a single season. They will be desperate for that to not occur, but the reality is there and it isn’t totally in their hands to avert that outcome.


In the other match of the round, the powerhouse Glasgow Sharks gave the Tyne Tees Tigers their own welcome to the SARFL, recording a 110-point win over a Tigers team that is still acclimatising to a new league in a new country. Time will be kinder to the Tigers as they gain experience and a stronger footing, but coming up against a dangerous and heavy scoring team like the Sharks is part of that journey.

The win sees the Sharks remain into top spot whilst the Tigers still sit in fourth position and, mathematically at least, still in a fight for the finals.

Next weekend’s match will see the West Lothian Eagles back into the fray as they tackle the rampant Edinburgh Bloods. The match represents a huge challenge for the fledgling Eagles in their developmental season. Again, the result will not influence the ladder in any way, but it does allow the Eagle learning curve to accelerate, being exposed to one of the best teams in the league.

Final Scores:
Kingdom Kangaroos 10 9 69 d Greater Glasgow Giants 8 9 57
Glasgow Sharks 22 26 158 d Tyne Tees Tigers 5 9 ...

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Mozzies Power Up For Another Flag Tilt

June 17, 2018, 10:29 pm

≫ Next: Württemberg Giants Score Important Home Win

≪ Previous: Roos Reach Out To Finals

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The Manchester Mozzies’ relentless surge towards another AFLCNE premiership took further power surge on the weekend when the reigning champions crushed the Merseyside Saints in Wolverhampton. Whilst premierships are never won mid-season, they are certainly prepared for and aimed for across the season. The Mozzies 30-goal win proved that they have the drive to push as hard as they can and the talent to go with that desire.

The loss continued a tough season for the Merseyside Saints. Realistically, it was always going to be a tough ask for them in 2018. With teams like the Sheffield Thunder and Tyne Tees Tigers missing, it left next to no highly possible victories. Again, the club is in a new learning phase and the latest effort against the Mozzies has to be seen as a practical learning session rather than some sort of setback.

The dominance of the Mozzies gives them huge benefits in experimenting and trialling ideas for later, resting players where necessary, planning tactics to meet particular situations and generally getting on to of all the little things that make a premiership.


In the other game, the Wolverhampton Wolverines made the most of home ground advantages to comprehensively defeat the Huddersfield Rams. The final margin of 102 points proved that the Wolverines do possess some heavy firepower, which will be vital come finals time if they are to breach the defences of either the Scorpions or Mozzies – or both.

Next weekend will see the top of the table clash between the Manchester Mozzies and the Nottingham Scorpions hosted by the Merseyside Saints. It is sure to be a huge match and a direct pointer to clear favouritism for the 2018 flag. The host team, Saints, have their best shot at victory with a home match against the Huddersfield Rams. A win will see them back with a shot of avoiding the dreaded wooden spoon – or better.

Final Scores:
Wolverhampton Wolverines 22 26 158 d Huddersfield Rams 8 8 56
Manchester Mozzies 38 15 243 d Merseyside Saints 8 13 61
...

Württemberg Giants Score Important Home Win

June 18, 2018, 2:19 pm

≫ Next: DC Aguilas Inaugural AFL Colombia Champions

≪ Previous: Mozzies Power Up For Another Flag Tilt

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In the only match for Round 6 in the AFLG competition in Germany last weekend, the league’s newest team – the Württemberg Giants – have enjoyed their second win of the season, upsetting the Frankfurt Redbacks by nine points at home.

It took a huge last quarter from the Giants, with the Redbacks having led the match at every change. The match was tight from the outset with the Redbacks holding an eight-point lead at quarter-time and just five points at the main break. At the final change, it was still a goal separating the teams. However, a three goal to one burst from the Giants in the final quarter saw them home in a great game.

Final Score: Württemberg Giants 11 13 79 d Frankfurt Redbacks 10 10 70


The club is delighted to have snared their second win of the season. “After our loss in Frankfurt we are very happy with the win from last Saturday. The whole team had no doubt that we have the skills to win. Everyone was fighting until the umpire blew the whistle. This was a great team performance.”

The loss would have been harsh for the Redbacks, yet they are still in the race for a finals berth, equal on wins with the fourth placed Lions. However, the Giants were the big winner, jumping two games clear of bottom-placed Dresden Wolves and, remarkably, just a win outside the top four (though with a poor percentage). It gives incentive for the Giants to finish the season well and maybe snare a final berth.

Next weekend will see the Round 7 clashes featuring the Rheinland Lions hosting the Hamburg Dockers in Cologne, the Munch Kangaroos hosting the Württemberg Giants and the Dresden Wolves travelling to Berlin to meet the Crocs. The three top sides – Hamburg, Munich and Berlin – are all featured and will be very conscious of the importance of victory in the run towards the final ...

DC Aguilas Inaugural AFL Colombia Champions

June 19, 2018, 2:16 am

≫ Next: Belfast Redbacks Have That Winning Feeling

≪ Previous: Württemberg Giants Score Important Home Win

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The history books will forever show that the DC Aguilas became the first ever AFL Colombia champions after their 15-point victory over the Bogota Bullants. A year ago, this competition did not exist, yet now it boasts a champion team after a hugely successful first season.

Paddy Smallwood, president of AFL Colombia, provided his view of the biggest match yet to be played in Bogota. “The best game of the season was saved for the grand final - the Aguilas going in favourites but the Bullants regaining their captain and some quality players made for a thrilling and hard fought affair.”

“The Aguilas jumped out of the gate in the first quarter, dominating possession in their forward half. However, they were not able to convert it on the scorecard with some strong Bullants defending and inaccuracy restricting the Aguilas to two goals. The Bullants rallied with 2 quick goals late in the quarter before the Aguilas steadied and kicked a late goal just before the siren to take a 7 point lead into the quarter time break.”

“The second quarter opened up, again with the Aguilas dominating much possession in their forward line with the first 2 goals. However, the Bullants defence was dour but dangerous on the counter attack, hurting the Aguilas with two quick rebound goals. Ultimately, the Aguilas just took the honours to extend their lead to 13 points at half time.”

“The third quarter stepped well and truly up to grand final level, marked by big hits and strong tackles. Simon Trieber started to push his influence on the game with a couple of goals for the Bullants, while Sam Millers influence was more restricted after his first half 4 goals. The Bullants brought the pressure challenge right up to the Aguilas in what was the most physical and tense quarter of football seen in Colombia this season. The Aguilas dug in to fight off the push, however the Bullants won the quarter to cut the lead to 8 points at the last change.”

“The final quarter and the game was there for the taking. The Aguilas again kicked the first two goals to give themselves some breathing space. However, the Bullants were not done with yet, striking back with two of their own to bring it back under ten points. The quarter then turned into an arm wrestle with tired legs showing. The young 16-year-old gun, Dom Solano, stepped up with his fitness and ability, driving the Aguilas out of defence repeatedly. The Bullants’ Colombian superstar, Oscar Marin, took some huge contested marks for the Bullants up forward.”

“The Aguilas captain broke the deadlock late in the quarter to extend the lead back to 2 goals with a goal on the run, before Sam Miller kicked his 6th and 35th for the season to effectively seal the contest. The Bullants got a late consolation goal but the contest was effectively over. The Aguilas coming out 15 point victors. Sam Miller was awarded Best on Ground for his six goals, and Oscar Marin was awarded the Rising Star Award for outstanding Colombian performances.

It was a fantastic showpiece event for footy in Colombia with great spectator support shown on a cold and at times wet Bogota day with the closest and arguably best game of the year on show. Overall, it was a fantastic first season in Colombia with huge participation from a huge range people. The Aguilas, made up of five different nationalities, lifted the first Cundinamarca Cup with pride. I am sure the second season will be just as hotly contested.”

“The second season will start in late July before we play Chile in August. We are in talks with a number of American teams to increase our international competition this year and going into next.”

Final Scores:

DC Aguilas 15 12 102 d Bogota Bullants 13 9 87

Best, Aguilas ; Sam Miller, Paddy Smallwood, Dom Solano, Johan Poveda, Sergio Torres.
Best, Bullants; Oscar Marin, Simon Trieber, Nick Walker, Yessid Gonzales.

Goals Aguilas- Sam Miller 6, Darren Crockett 4, Johan Poveda 2, Dom Solano 2, Paddy Smallwood 1.
Goals Bullants- Simon Treiber 5, Nick Walker 2, Tristan Quigley 2, Oscar Marin 2, Andy Farrington 1, Amir Nissen 1


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Belfast Redbacks Have That Winning Feeling

June 20, 2018, 10:39 pm

≫ Next: AFL 2018 International Broadcast Schedule - Round 14

≪ Previous: DC Aguilas Inaugural AFL Colombia Champions

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Premierships are never won mid-season, and any team already planning their celebrations should hold onto their deposit a little longer. But it is fair to say that once a habit of winning gets a hold, clubs are right to capitalise on it to the maximum - and that is roughly where the Belfast Redbacks currently sit in the AFL Ireland competition.

The competition has reached the mid-point and all clubs still have a point to prove and dreams to realise.

After a dour struggle with the South Dublin Swans on the weekend, the Redbacks held on to make it five wins from five starts for the 2018 season. Their seven-point victory has set up a great chance to aim for an undefeated season – a step up from winning as many games as possible. It was a tough and tight affair, and the Swans gave themselves every chance of pulling off an upset. But in the end, the Belfast crew held their nerve to win.


The Redbacks now sit undefeated at the head of the ladder and can dare to dream. After two years of Lion dominance, maybe destiny is on the Redbacks’ side and they can return to the Eldorado of a premiership.

However, the Leeside Lions may have a word or two to say about that. The Lions held a fast-finishing Galway Magpies at bay to record a 17-point win and strengthen their grip on second place on the ladder. Despite the Magpies coming home hard with the last four goals of the game, the Lions still did enough damage earlier to show they are far from a spent force.

The results over the weekend saw two close games, suggesting that no team is truly that far behind the others. Nevertheless, the five-zip start for the Redbacks certainly has them in a great position at the midway point of the season as teams begin to think about their hopes and dreams for 2018.

Final Scores:

Belfast Redbacks 7 6 48 d South Dublin Swans 6 5 41
Leeside Lions 8 7 55 d Galway Magpies 5 8 38 ...

AFL 2018 International Broadcast Schedule - Round 14

June 21, 2018, 2:47 am

≫ Next: Wildcats And Demons Make Their Moves

≪ Previous: Belfast Redbacks Have That Winning Feeling

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Round 14 of the 2018 AFL Season kicks off tonight in Perth with the West Coast Eagles hosting Essendon. 

The full broadcast schedule for the round can be seen below.

In addition to the TV networks you can also subscribe to the Watch AFL service that will give you live access to all the matches and more (outside Australia only).

You can access that service by clicking on the link here or the Watch AFL promo shot on the left to register and by then paying the subscription fee.

Right now Watch AFL is offering a Mid-Season Pass a big discount on the regular season pass. This pass includes all AFL Premiership season matches, the Finals Series plus access to FOX FOOTY content.

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

  

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 All times subject to change - please check with your local guides ...

Wildcats And Demons Make Their Moves

June 21, 2018, 4:58 am

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A costly loss for the North London Lions has allowed both the Wandsworth Demons and the West London Wildcats to surge away from them in first and second place respectively on the AFL London ladder. Going into the round, the Lions were right in the mix and were more than a match for the two higher-fancied teams. However, their 32-point defeat at the hands of the Demons has changed the balance of power.

With the Demons winning against the Lions and the Wildcats hammering the Wimbledon Hawks, both teams have a slight buffer with the competition well into the second half of the season. The Lions are not out of contention for a top two finish, but their job has become a little harder.

The Wildcats continued a tough season for the Hawks, downing the latter by 144 points and racking up a huge percentage boost which looks like a very useful commodity with a tight three-team struggle near the top. The loss compounds the Hawks’ woes and keeps them anchored to the bottom of the table.


The highpoint of the round, however, was the work done behind the scenes, and on the day, by volunteers raising funds for the Breast Cancer Network Australia. The day netted a wonderful £800 ($1400 AUD) for the cause and was a great credit to the clubs, their partners, supporters and sponsors who worked together to make the day happen.

Next weekend sees part two of the Round 4 fixture to be completed with the Wimbledon Hawks hosting the Wandsworth Demons. The following weekend will then see the Round 7 action as Wildcats host the Lions in a huge match for both teams. The Wimbledon Hawks will host the London Swans in their last real chance to avoid the wooden spoon.

Final Scores:
Wandsworth Demons 12 8 80 d North London Lions 6 12 48
West London Wildcats 22 20 152 d Wimbledon Hawks 1 2 8

Women’s Premiership:
Wandsworth Demons 4 5 29 d North London Lions 2 2 14
West London Wildcats 6 3 39 d Wimbledon Hawks 2 3 15
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Big Finish On Cards In Denmark

June 22, 2018, 5:11 am

≫ Next: Bristol Dockers On Track To Defend Title – AFL Wales

≪ Previous: Wildcats And Demons Make Their Moves

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The DAFL season has crossed into the second half and the run home to the finals. With Round 10 being completed last weekend, each of the six teams still has either four or five games to go before finals. However, in what promises to be a sensational run to the finals, only one team is unlikely to reach the finals. All others are not only finals chances, but depending on their finish from here, they are all a chance for the minor premiership.

Last weekend’s matches saw the Aalborg Kangaroos take a forfeit victory over the Copenhagen Barracudas. The pace setting Farum Cats had a big win over the Port Malmö Maulers by 78 points to secure top spot for the time being.

Where things get interesting is the top five teams – they are now separated on points by just one game. The Cats sit on top with 16 points, whilst the Copenhagen Barracudas and Giants, Aalborg Kangaroos and Port Malmö Maulers are locked on 12 points apiece with varying percentages. In context, the first placed Cats are just a game and 19 percent ahead of the fifth placed Maulers. The Lions sit two games behind the Maulers, which is a bridge too far to get to the finals.


It almost guarantees one of the best finishes to a Danish season for years where every match counts for something and every four points earned could be the difference between finals or also-rans.

A case in point is this weekend’s only match with the Farum Cats meeting the Copenhagen Barracudas. A win for the Cats will give them some breathing space on top of the ladder. A loss for the Barracudas could potentially see their spot in the top four at risk. However, if they defeat the Cats they could in fact supplant them on top of the ladder – for a short while.

A look through the remaining draw will show that each match from here until finals time will have ramifications on the ultimate makeup of the final four as finals time gets closer. (see the draw at: http://www.thefootyrecord.net/index.p...aboption=3 )

Finals commence on 15th September with the grand-final to be played at a venue to be decided on 22nd September.

Final Scores Round 10:
Aalborg Kangaroos 120 d Copenhagen Barracudas 0 (Forfeit)
Farum Cats 17 19 121 d Port Malmö Maulers 7 1 43 ...

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Bristol Dockers On Track To Defend Title – AFL Wales

June 22, 2018, 6:10 pm

≫ Next: Tight Finish Looms In Sweden

≪ Previous: Big Finish On Cards In Denmark

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The hopes of the Bristol Dockers to defend their AFL Wales title took a positive turn last round when they downed their major challenger, the Cardiff Panthers, by 13 points. In a tight game, the Dockers were too good in the end and have raced two games ahead of the Panthers in the race for top spot, with only three days of matches remaining before the grand final.

The 2017 champions have won all three of their games played to date this season. They also have a healthy percentage break. The Panthers have a win and a loss and the Chippenham (Wiltshire & Bath) Redbacks are yet to record a win.

The Welsh season is being fought on two fronts in 2018. As well as the regular competition (AFL Wales - WARFL), there is also the historic union of the WARFL (Welsh league) and the SEAFL (Southern Engand) being played across the year. The first instalment of that united SEWARFL competition was played recently, hosted by Chippenham.


The next round of matches will see the second instalment of that competition, this time hosted by SEAFL club Southampton. The finals for that competition will follow on 11th August in either Chippenham or Southampton. (for details on the Chippenham matches, see Swans On Winners List – AFL London)

The WARFL season still has some surprises to play out before finals, but a review of the season to date sees:

Round 1 – Bristol Dockers 89 d Chippenham Redbacks 52
Round 2 – SEWARFL Tournament (Chippenham)
Round 3 – Cardiff Panthers v Bristol Dockers (postoned)
Round 4 – Cardiff Panthers 19 29 143 d Chippenham Redbacks 5 3 33
Round 5 – Bristol Dockers 26 30 186 d Chippenham Redbacks 3 4 22
Round 6 – Bristol Dockers 7 10 52 d Cardiff Panthers 5 9 39
Round 7 – SEWAEFL Tournament – Pt 2 – (Southampton) - 30th June
Round 8 – Cardiff Panthers v Chippenham Redbacks – 5th July
Round 9 – Three Way WARFL Round (Dockers, Panthers, Redbacks) - 14th July
GF (WARFL) – 26th or 28th July
GF (SEWRFL) – 11th August

AFL Wales’ attention will then be firmly directed towards the Tyne Cup in September and the Euro Cup in Cork in October.

But, in the more immediate future, The Bristol Dockers have their eyes set on defending their WARFL title, whilst the Cardiff Panthers plot the Dockers' demise. The Chippenham Redbacks also know they can run amok and displace every team’s plans over coming weeks.

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Tight Finish Looms In Sweden

June 24, 2018, 3:15 am

≫ Next: Theories Of Relativity – SARFL

≪ Previous: Bristol Dockers On Track To Defend Title – AFL Wales

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Ahead of next Round 6 round of the SAFF (Stockholm Australian Football Federation) 2018 season, a three-way battle looms for dominance heading to the finals series. The Södermalm Blues sit at the top of the ladder on three wins, as do the Solna Axemen and Norrtälje Dockers – each only separated by percentage.

The only team sitting off the pace at this stage are the winless Årsta Swans. Whilst the Swans and the Blues have played one less game than the Axemen and Dockers to date, the makeup of final positions will be determined by the final round of the season.

Next round the Axemen meet the Swans. The clash between the Blues and the Dockers has been rescheduled. For the top three teams, victory is essential. Top place after the regular season comes with the reward of an extra week off to prepare for the grand-final. For the Swans, they can still finish their season on a high, starting with an upset against the Axemen.

It makes for a fascinating run to the finals in September with so much on the line. The finals will see a semi between second and third the weekend after the final round with the winner meeting whichever team finishes in first place the following weekend.

The Blues will be keen to defend their title from last year when they downed the Axemen in the grand-final by 17 points. However, to do that they will need to keep the Dockers at bay in their next match. The Dockers, for their part, are on a high after back-to-back wins – including downing the Axemen – as well as basking in the thrill of having been named as the destination for the 2019 Euro Cup. They will be desperate to reach the final to keep their winning momentum going.

In an even season where no team has remained undefeated, any result is possible. The Blues will be favourites to down the Dockers after the summer break and hold top position after defeating them comfortably earlier in the season and securing a grand final berth. However, the battle between the Swans and Axemen sees the Solna team strong favourites and a win will almost certainly see them contest the final.

After that, anything is possible. The scene is set for an exciting finish to the SAFF season.
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Theories Of Relativity – SARFL

June 24, 2018, 4:23 am

≫ Next: A Week Is A Long Time In Footy – AFLG

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It isn’t often that Einstein’s “Theory of Relativity” is applied to football, but it probably applies far more often than we might think. A perfect example of that is the Edinburgh Bloods big win over the West Lothian Eagles by 129 points on the weekend. Einstein would be proud.

To paraphrase physics, ‘The speed of light in a vacuum [West Lothian Eagles development] is the same for all observers, regardless of their relative motion or of the motion of the light source [Edinburgh’s victory]”. Admittedly, a tenuous comparison, but there was much more good in the Eagles’ defeat than bad, and that is taking nothing away from the well drilled performance by the Bloods.

In a match that was another fully-fledged development game for the Eagles and had no bearing on the SARFL ladder, the result was almost irrelevant. The new kids on the block were playing the second placed, experienced club on their own home ground. You don’t need science to predict he result.


But new clubs have had far more fearsome hidings in their first seasons that this Eagles defeat. As the club pointed out on their own social media, the fact that they put 66 points on the board against the Bloods speaks volumes for their ability and potential. Even the psychological bonus of keeping the Bloods under the magical 200-points marks was a win. It sounds odd, but this was a very good 129-point loss. Relativity.

Over in Glasgow, the Glasgow Sharks women’s team hosted the visiting Port Malmo Lynx from Sweden. After a great game of football, the Sharks were victorious by 63 points. The efforts of the Lynx women and crew to come over to Scotland for the match were greatly appreciated by all.

The next round of the SARFL is centred on Glasgow. The Greater Glasgow Giants will host the Tyne Tees Tigers in a must win match for both teams. In the other match, the Glasgow Sharks will host the Kingdom Kangaroos in a match that will also have potential finals ramifications for teams.

Final Scores:
Edinburgh Bloods 195 d West Lothian Eagles 66
Glasgow Sharks 14 9 93 d Port Malmo Lynx 5 0 ...

A Week Is A Long Time In Footy – AFLG

June 25, 2018, 4:53 am

≫ Next: Rams Run Riot – AFLCNE

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Last week the Württemberg Giant were celebrating a win against the Frankfurt Redbacks. On the weekend, they were brought back to earth by a rampant Munich Kangaroos team, going down by 124 points. The result wasn’t a surprise to either team, but the margin was bigger than the Giants would have hoped. However, with jostling for top four positions intensifying ahead of the finals, top teams are very aware of how important percentage will become.

Most teams have only two more matches left, and the top three teams – the Kangaroos, Hamburg Dockers and Berlin Crocs – will be locked in a tight battle. Teams in their way are sure to feel the heat as the top three start to flex their muscle. Certainly, that is what happened to the Giants.

Similarly, the Rheinland Lions – also last start winners against the Dresden Wolves – were stopped in their tracks by a Hamburg Dockers outfit that was both on the rebound from their narrow last start loss to the Berlins Crocs and also intent on ensuring their percentage stays healthy enough to stay ahead of their competitors.


To drive the point home further, the remaining match for Round 7 will see the Berlin Crocs host he Dresden Wolves and you can bet the Crocs will be after every possibly advantage the game can bring.

Currently, the Dockers and Kangaroos are locked on seven wins apiece. Should the Crocs win on the weekend, as widely expected, they will be a game off the pace. Their own percentage is a very healthy 197%, but the Kangaroos is 262% and the Dockers a whopping 429%. The Crocs have plenty of ground to make up if they want to challenge for a flag from a top two position.

It is this competitiveness at the top end of the ladder hat will send shivers down the spine of anyone drawn to play the top three.

After this weekend’s match in Berlin, the league has a mini break with hostilities resuming for Round 8 in late July. That round will see a blockbuster with the Crocs hosting the Dockers in Berlin, the Rheinland Lions hosting Dresden Wolves in Cologne and the Munich Kangaroos hosting the Frankfurt Redbacks.

It is clear that places in the top four are still on the line, including the battle for fourth place between the Lions and Redbacks. There is much to be excited about in Germany over the next few weeks for Australian Football fans.

Final Scores:
Munich Kangaroos 27 12 174 d Württemberg Giants 8 2 50
Hamburg Dockers 21 18 144 d Rheinland Lions 2 4 ...

Rams Run Riot – AFLCNE

June 26, 2018, 4:19 am

≫ Next: Demons Too Good For Hawks – AFL London

≪ Previous: A Week Is A Long Time In Footy – AFLG

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In a huge day for the Huddersfield Rams, their 177-point victory over the Merseyside Saints in Liverpool has breathed new life into their season. Going into the round, the Rams would have been confident of a win, but it would have to be a big win to bridge the percentage gap if they still have faint hopes of a top two finish. It was.

Whilst the Manchester Mozzies have cleared well ahead of the pack with five wins for the season and undefeated, the battle for second place and other finals spots is tighter with percentage only separating the Wolverines, Rams and Scorpions.

The Rams were out of the blocks early and stayed there, playing a relentless brand of footy to completely shut out the Saints. As the margin continued to grow, the Rams’ confidence would have also as they saw their season get right back on the tracks as they ran riot across the park.


The other game hosted by the Saints saw the Manchester Mozzies down the Nottingham Scorpions. There was just a glimmer of hope for other teams in the result. To date, the Mozzies have been far too superior for all other teams. However, the Scorpions pushed the league leaders to 33 points. Not only was the score line reachable, and a sign that the Mozzies are human after all, but the Mozzies blazed 15 goals and 26 behinds. Much of that is skill error, but the Scorpions also impacted with enough sustained defensive pressure to create mistakes.

Finals are often described as a funny, different beast to round matches, and the Scorpions may have just shown every other team the small chink in the Mozzies’ armoury – apply enough defensive pressure and they can be contained…maybe beaten, just like Achilles.

Next weekend, Round 7 will feature what is likely a finals dress rehearsal. All four of the likely finalists will meet in Nottingham in what could be a pointer to what comes later. The host team, Nottingham Scorpions, will meet the Wolverhampton Wolverines in a potential two v three battle come finals time. The other match will see the Mozzies take on the Rams in what may also be a potential finals match-up. The Saints have the bye.

Final Scores:
Huddersfield Rams 212 d Merseyside Saints 35
Manchester Mozzies 15 26 116 d Nottingham Scorpions 12 11 83

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