Demons Too Good For Hawks – AFL London

June 26, 2018, 2:06 pm

≫ Next: AFL 2018 International Broadcast Schedule - Round 15

It has been a big day out for the Wandsworth Demons last weekend. With only three matches scheduled for the completion of Round 4 (commenced late May/early June), the Demons came away as winners in each. It was also a tough day at the office for the Wimbledon Hawks, with their teams going down to the rampant Demons by big margins in each grade.

The Men’s Premiership match saw the Wandsworth Demons far too good for the Wimbledon Hawks. The Demons showed their intensity from the outset and extended the lead at each break before cruising to a percentage boosting 121-point win. As the finals get closer, percentage could well be a factor in deciding final placings.

In the Women’s Premiership match, the Demons were just as ruthless against the Hawks, recording a powerful 85-point victory. The Demon’s Social team, the South Park Demons, managed to gallop away to a 99-point victory.

To put the icing on the Demon cake, the results have seen their teams go to the top of the ladder in both Men’s and Women’s Premiership divisions, whilst the South Park Demons sit second on percentage behind the Ealing Emus. With the Clapham Demons sitting on top of the ladder in both the Men’s and Women’s Conference divisions, it is a near Demon domination of the league.

However, finals time brings very different pressures, so the club’s job is far from done.

Next weekend’s Round 7 matches will see the Demons with the bye. The London Swans and Wimbledon Hawks will clash in the match that will likely determine the fourth place come finals time as well as the wooden spoon. In what promises to be a huge match, the West London Wildcats will host the North London Lions in another finals defining clash.

Final Scores:
Men’s Premiership – Wandsworth Demons 20 17 137 d Wimbledon Hawks 2 4 16
Women’s Premiership – Wandsworth Demons 12 14 86 d Wimbledon Hawks 0 1 1
Social – Wandsworth Demons 18 12 120 d Wimbledon Hawks 3 3 ...

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AFL 2018 International Broadcast Schedule - Round 15

June 27, 2018, 11:58 pm

≫ Next: Southampton Titans Chasing History

≪ Previous: Demons Too Good For Hawks – AFL London

Round 15 of the 2018 AFL Season kicks off tonight at the MCG with the Richmond hosting the Sydney Swans.

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 ...

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Southampton Titans Chasing History

June 29, 2018, 4:53 am

≫ Next: American Falcon flies high

≪ Previous: AFL 2018 International Broadcast Schedule - Round 15

The SEAFL (Southern England AFL) competition is heading towards the business end of the season and the Southampton Titans are sitting on top of the ladder with one big goal in mind. “This year we are looking to win the flag and become the first team in the history of the league to win back to back premierships.” It is a significant piece of history they are seeking, but they are enjoying a great year.

According to the club ahead of this weekend’s SEWARFL fixture, “the main highlights so far have been making a strong start in the league and strengthening our relationship with St Jude’s Gaelic football team.”

It is a big opportunity for the Titans, but more importantly, it has been a season of progress for the league.

Mick Tierney from the Sussex Swans, and president of the SEAFL, has seen the changes to the league and how exciting the future might be. “The SEAFL has currently got three clubs (Sussex Swans, Southampton Titans and Portsmouth Pirates) but we’re hoping to revive some clubs which folded over the last few years.”

“To ensure we get plenty of footy, you will see our league fixtures are played in small round robins. We have also created two mixer rounds, where the SEAFL clubs join the Welsh Australian Rules Football League clubs (that is Cardiff Panthers, Chippenham Redbacks and Bristol Dockers) for additional games. These mixer games are worth two points each whereas the normal league games are worth three points - this means every round there are six points up for grabs - so the league table can turn relatively quickly.”

“The make-up of each club is truly unique. Swans are made of a handful of Aussies, but mainly Brits bored of the traditional sports on offer - they also have the first SEAFL Women’s club. The Titans are similar in regards to their setup, except they have generally had the same nine blokes over the last few years. Pirates on the other hand are in their first year back and comprise of a large group of off-season rugby boys.”

The SEAFL season to date has seen:

Round 1 – (SEWARFL Mixer)
Sussex Swans 7 5 47 d Chippenham Redbacks 2 5 17
Bristol Dockers 11 7 73 d Southampton Titans 0 2 2
Cardiff Panthers 7 5 47 d Portsmouth Pirates 3 3 21
Southampton Titans 6 3 39 drew with Chippenham Redbacks 6 3 39
Bristol Dockers 7 5 47 d Portsmouth Pirates 2 2 14
Cardiff Panthers 7 4 46 d Sussex Swans 5 3 33
Portsmouth Pirates 5 10 40 d Chippenham Redbacks 2 6 18
Bristol Dockers 14 5 89 d Sussex Swans 4 4 28
Cardiff Panthers 5 10 40 d Southampton Titans 1 5 11

Round 2 – (SEAFL)
Southampton Dockers 7 14 56 d Sussex Swans 4 9 33
Southampton Titans 12 6 78 d Portsmouth Pirates 3 10 28
Portsmouith Pirates 11 11 77 d Sussex Swans 5 5 35

Round 3 – (SEAFL)
Sussex Swan 6 7 43 d Portsmouth Pirates 5 6 36
Portsmouth Pirates 7 5 47 d Southampton Titans 4 3 27
Southampton Titans 6 9 45 d Sussex Swan 1 10 16

Ladder:
Southampton Titans 10
Portsmouth Pirates 8
Sussex Swans 5

...

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American Falcon flies high

June 30, 2018, 3:51 pm

≫ Next: Darragh Gets His Chance

≪ Previous: Southampton Titans Chasing History

Sam Murphy’s journey from American football walk-on to state league Aussie footballer has been a fun and eventful odyssey. The ruckman from the Los Angeles Dragons made his debut two weeks ago for the West Perth Falcons in the WAFL, becoming the latest American to thrive in local footy.

Originally from Fairfield, Connecticut, Murphy spent most of his youth competing in American football and was a letterwinner at Fairfield High School. When his family relocated to Los Angeles, Murphy spent a year at the highly-touted Oaks Christian football program, which is known for sending players to national powerhouses like USC and UCLA.

Upon graduating, Murphy decided to walk on at the University of Connecticut as an offensive lineman. However, after a coaching staff change, Murphy decided to pursue other football opportunities, heading back to LA and transferring to Santa Monica College. At SMC, he played both tight end and defensive end, drawing some interest from several Division 1 programs, but never any official offers.

Soon, however, Murphy found a new outlet: Aussie rules. Interested in acting and modeling, Murphy began working for entertainment industry veteran John Fragomeni, who also happened to be the founding coach of the LA Dragons. Fragomeni, a Perth native who has lived in southern California for over a decade, was responsible for recruiting a large number of Americans to the Dragons in the early days of the club. Intrigued by the idea of a new sport, Murphy decided to give footy a go and began playing during the summer of 2016.

Using his natural height (6’5”) and athleticism to his advantage, Murphy managed to make a big difference in games, tag-teaming with American veteran Donald Lee to form a dynamic ruck duo. During this time, Murphy also got a few of his SMC teammates involved, including his roommate, Julien Mayeur.

Excited by the possibilities of Aussie rules, Murphy began exploring the chance to move to Australia to play. Fragomeni’s connections in Perth naturally led Murphy to try the WAFL, and eventually, the West Perth Falcons were the club that decided to take a chance on the youngster. Murphy moved to Perth in November and began training with the Falcons straight away.

Murphy was finally able to offer a big return on West Perth’s investment in Round 11 of the 2018 WAFL season. Playing for the Falcons’ reserves squad against Claremont, Murphy collected a mark, two disposals, 11 hit-outs and six tackles. In addition, he’s also been able to grab a few games for the Whitford Warriors in the WAAFL.

Ultimately, Murphy has joined a growing list of gifted Americans who are making a big impact on the great game of Aussie rules. It’s very exciting to see the USAFL continue to develop strong ties to local and state-level clubs across Australia -- a great opportunity for all involved. ...

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Darragh Gets His Chance

July 1, 2018, 2:23 pm

≫ Next: Remorseless Sharks Attack Roos

≪ Previous: American Falcon flies high

Michael Ryan reports on the St Kilda website about the debut for another young Irish talent with Darragh Joyce playing for the Saints in their exciting win against the Melbourne Demons. In a solid first game, Darragh had 10 possessions. Wearing #39, the new Irish Saint also contributed a creditable team-oriented five one percenters and also kicked a behind. It was a promising start and a great platform on which to build his future.

As a fresh-faced 19-year-old, Darragh Joyce uprooted his life and left his family in Ireland to pursue an unlikely dream, and it will all be worth it when he runs out in the red, white and black for his AFL debut this Sunday.

It started with a simple email, then a kick in Dublin’s Phoenix Park, followed by a 17,300km journey to the other side of the world, and now finally, the Irishman gets his chance on the big stage.

To say Joyce’s journey thus far has been unconventional would be a gross understatement.

Growing up deep in hurling country in County Kilkenny, Darragh Joyce was practically born with a hurl in his hand.

With his sporting future seemingly mapped out before him, the young hurling prodigy’s older brothers Kieran and Conor paved the way, the former enjoying sustained All-Ireland success with Kilkenny at the highest level.

Joyce’s adept ability at the ancient Gaelic game culminated in lifting the Irish Press Cup aloft, having captained Kilkenny to All-Ireland minor hurling glory.

But now, nearly four years later, the 21-year-old is staring down the barrel of a debut in what was once a foreign game in a far-off land.

Unlike most Irish converts though, Joyce's Gaelic football career never extended into club level.

The ex-hurler has learned from two of St Kilda’s best coaching assets in Lindsay Gilbee, widely renowned as one of the best exponents of the drop punt in the game’s history, and defensive stalwart Danny Frawley.

“I’ve been doing a lot of work with Spud (Frawley) on bodywork to put me in a good position to either intercept or spoil it, so just doing the basics week in, week out, and a lot of kicking with Lindsay (Gilbee) as well, so it’s all paying off,” Joyce told saints.com.au.

“It’s been a big journey for me, so to get here, there’s been a lot of hard work over the last year, but hopefully it’s the first of many.”

Home is never too far away for the Kilkenny man though, and a last-minute flight booking means the Joyce family will be represented at the MCG on Sunday.

“Me Mam’s on the way over now, so she’ll be here in less than 24 hours, which is great,” Joyce said.

Upon revealing to Joyce that he was to make his debut, senior coach Alan Richardson reassured him that his captivating story had nothing to do with his senior selection.

“I’ve been involved with a few Irish boys over the years, and you came in as green as anyone that I’ve worked with, so it’s a real credit to you,” Richardson said.

“You’re in because you’ve earnt it. It’s not a novelty thing, it’s not a ‘righto, we haven’t quite had the results we’re after, so let’s just have a look at the list’…that’s not the case.

“You’ve worked your backside off, you know, first in, last to leave, that sort of attitude, and it’s certainly got you this opportunity.”

Richardson also drew on Joyce’s exemplary work ethic both on and off the field.

“You’ve earnt the respect of your teammates, and that’s what I want,” he said.

“By the time we’ve finished on the MCG on Sunday, (I want) your teammates to look you in eye at the end of the game and know they can trust you.”

Darragh Joyce becomes just the third Irish-born player to represent St Kilda in VFL/AFL history, following Dermot McNicholl (3 games, 1990) and Colm Begley (1 game, 2009).

The original article can be found at: http://www.saints.com.au/news/2018-06-29/darragh-gets-his-chance

Picture Credit: Zimbio

...

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Remorseless Sharks Attack Roos

July 2, 2018, 10:49 pm

≫ Next: Happy Hawks Break Duck

≪ Previous: Darragh Gets His Chance

The saying goes that if you look a shark in the eye, all you see is a cold, calculating, lifeless stare in return. Just why you would want to look a shark in the eye is an entirely different matter. However, the Kingdom Kangaroos did just that last weekend when they took on the Glasgow Sharks.

Already suffering from a lack of preferred player numbers on the day, things got worse for the Kangaroos as injuries to those still standing decimated their list. But this is where the Sharks were at their predatory best. Premierships are not about being the “nice guy”. They are built around the 100% commitment of every player for the full four quarters, week in week out. And, that is as it should be.

The Roos kept fighting, but their adversary was just too good and took every advantage available to them as they built towards another flag. Whilst there is plenty that the Roos can rue after the game, they can also take heart that some of the problems they encountered on the weekend are rectifiable and a full list come finals time will see a vastly different herd of kangaroos in the paddock.

The Greater Glasgow Giants have finally got on the winner’s list for this season after downing the Tyne Tees Tigers. In a match where they trailed at the main break and had to produce a huge second half, the win gives the Giants renewed heart and the knowledge that the season isn’t yet over and another finals series is possible. Their 53-point win sees them in a strong position to rise off the bottom of the ladder and make a late challenge for third place if they can upset the Bloods next weekend and then down the Roos in the final round. Very difficult ask, but by no means impossible.

A huge weekend of footy next up sees the Bloods host the Giants, the Kingdom Kangaroos hosting the Tyne Tees Tigers and the development game for the West Lothian Eagles when the have their hands full against the remorseless Glasgow Sharks. Whilst the likely results seem clear-cut, footy is a funny game – especially as finals time approaches.

Final Scores:
Glasgow Sharks 32 32 224 d Kingdom Kangaroos 6 8 44
Greater Glasgow Giants 125 d Tyne Tees Tigers 72
...

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Happy Hawks Break Duck

July 3, 2018, 2:34 am

≫ Next: Berlin Crocs Dine Out On Wolves

≪ Previous: Remorseless Sharks Attack Roos

The Wimbledon Hawks have finally managed to get a win on the board after a tough season. Their weekend clash against the London Swans was their big chance to avoid the wooden spoon this season. Whilst they still sit in last place, they are now equal on wins with the Swans and only seven percentage points separate the teams. From here, both teams would be hoping to upset one of the top three teams.

However, more likely, it will come down to battle to lose by the lesser margins from here and keep percentages as positive as possible. Playing at home, the Hawks ended up winning comfortably by 22 points, leaving the Wimbledon crowd grinning proudly.

In the other Premiership Division match, the West London Wildcats severely dented the North London Lions finals plans with powerful 68-point win. The defeat for the Lions all but rules them out of a top-two finish, whilst announcing to all and sundry that the Wildcats are very much in the premiership race again – not that they were ever out of it, but taking down the Lions leaves only one hurdle that they would be concerned about. They now know they have the Lions’ measure and can go hunting Demons now.

In the Women’s Premiership division, the Wandsworth Demons convincingly downed the South East London Giants by 45 points while the North London Lions won a tough game against the West London Wildcats by four goals.

Next weekend will see the two grand final favourites do battle with the Demons hosting the Wildcats at Clapham Common. The winner will almost certainly leave with outright premiership favouritism. The North London Lions will look to atone for last weekend’s loss when they host the London Swans – but it is far from a certainty with the Swans desperate to keep the Hawks in last place.

Final Scores:
Men’s Premiership
Wimbledon Hawks 9 6 60 d London Swans 5 8 38
West London Wildcats 17 8 110 d North London Lions 6 6 42

Women’s Premiership
Wandsworth Demons 7 12 54 d South East London Giants 1 3 9
North London Lions 3 13 31 d West London Wildcats 1 1 ...

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Berlin Crocs Dine Out On Wolves

July 3, 2018, 5:47 am

≫ Next: Quebec to East Freo - Caroline Leduc

≪ Previous: Happy Hawks Break Duck

In the only AFLG match for the weekend, and the final match of Round 7 after the Dockers/Lions and Kangaroos/Giants matches were played last weekend (see A Week Is A Long Time In Footy – AFLG), the Berlin Crocs were too powerful for the Dresden Wolves. On the scoreboard, the Crocs feasted on an undermanned Wolves team to secure a 162-point win.

In terms of ladder implications, the match actually stands as a bye with the Wolves only having seven of a mandatory nine players for the scores to count. Whilst that robs the Crocs of the full percentage advantage from the game, it probably matters little in the grander scheme of finals placings. The Crocs still sit in third place, a game and hefty percentage behind the Hamburg Dockers and Munich Kangaroos with each team having just two matches left before finals.

Given that the semi-final format pits second against third, realistically the Crocs have lost nothing from the forfeit result, but gained more much needed practice, confidence and touch ready for the business end of the year.

The big test for the Crocs will be their Round 8 clash hosting the Hamburg Dockers. Last time the clubs met, the Crocs pinched an upset one-point win in Hamburg. They will be keen to repeat that effort at home but the Dockers will come out breathing fire and seeking retribution. It is certain to be a huge game.

Propelled by an 11-goal performance from Rowan Miegel, and supported by a great team performance, the Crocs kicked five goals in the opening quarter and led by 71 points at the main break. If anything, the Crocs upped the ante in the second half before powering home to a big win. It has to be said that the Dresden Wolves were brave in defeat, against imposing odds, yet made the journey and never stopped trying.

Round 8 is on the weekend of 28th July and as well as featuring the Berlin v Hamburg clash, the Rheinland Lions will host the Dresden Wolves in Cologne and the Munich Kangaroos will meet the Frankfurt Redbacks in Fürstenfeldbruck.

Final Scores:
Berlin Crocs 26 16 172 d Dresden Wolves 1 4 10 (Forfeit points – Berlin 80, Dresden ...

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Quebec to East Freo - Caroline Leduc

July 3, 2018, 5:59 am

≫ Next: AFL 2018 International Broadcast Schedule - Round 16

≪ Previous: Berlin Crocs Dine Out On Wolves

Harley Vague caught up with Canada Northern Light's player Caroline Leduc this week. See the interview below.

...

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AFL 2018 International Broadcast Schedule - Round 16

July 3, 2018, 4:45 pm

≫ Next: Big Weekend For Southern England Teams

≪ Previous: Quebec to East Freo - Caroline Leduc

Round 16 of the 2018 AFL Season kicks off Thursday night Sydney time at Etihad Stadium with the Sydney Swans hosting Geelong at the SCG.

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.

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

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Big Weekend For Southern England Teams

July 4, 2018, 4:14 pm

≫ Next: Another Rioli Chapter Ends

≪ Previous: AFL 2018 International Broadcast Schedule - Round 16

With the second round of the SEWARFL (combined Southern England and Welsh leagues) played on the weekend, the teams from the SEAFL enjoyed a successful day out at Southampton on a hot and largely cloud-free day. Aided by the inability of the Cardiff Panthers to attend, the “home” teams also managed to be ultra-competitive on the field as well.

The gap created by the missing Panthers meant that each of the SEAFL teams drawn to play them came away with a forfeit result, meaning three wins from three matches. That in itself would have been a valuable result for the Southampton Titans, Portsmouth Pirates and Sussex Swans, but better followed.

The opening match of the day saw the Chippenham Redbacks start in a positive way, downing the Sussex Swans by 30 points. It was an important win for the Redbacks in the context of their own season. Prior to this win, their best result had been a draw against the Titans in the opening SEWARFL tournament. This win will rejuvenate the team and become a foundation block for the rest of this year and beyond.

In a sizeable upset, the Titans downed the Bristol Dockers in the second match by 10 points. It was the perfect start to the day for the host team and a signal for the SEAFL teams to take the day right up to the WARFL teams. The Titans then backed up the win with another against the Redbacks, his time by a commanding 44 points. It completed a perfect day for Titans, winning all three of their matches (counting the forfeit later in the day).

With the rally cry having been issued by the Titans, it was the turn of the Portsmouth Pirates. They were unlucky to lose their match to the Dockers by less than a goal, yet once again the fighting spirit of the SEAFL teams was on show. To the Dockers’ credit, they bounced back from their loss to the Titans to grab an important win.

It set the Pirates up for their next match – another tight clash against the Redbacks. Maybe it was their experience in the previous tight match, but the Pirates held off the unlucky Redbacks by just one point in a thriller.

In the final match, the Bristol Dockers restored order to their day with a powerful 53-point win against the Sussex Swans to give themselves two wins for the day – a reasonable return for an “away” fixture.

With the forfeit results counted as wins, it meant that the SEAFL teams came away from the day with six wins from nine scheduled matches. This has seen the Southampton Titans clear away to a four point break at the top of the SEAFL ladder. The Bristol Dockers are still on top of the WARFL ladder, well clear of the Panthers and Redbacks.

Final Scores:
Game 1 - Chippenham Redbacks 10 7 67 d Sussex Swans 6 1 37
Game 2 - Southampton Titans 9 1 55 d Bristol Dockers 6 9 45
Game 3 - Portsmouth Pirates d Cardiff Panthers (Forfeit)
Game 4 - Southampton Titans 10 6 66 d Chippenham Redbacks 3 4 22
Game 5 - Bristol Dockers 3 10 28 d Portsmouth Pirates 3 5 23
Game 6 - Sussex Swans d Cardiff Panthers (Forfeit)
Game 7 - Portsmouth Pirates 6 8 44 d Chippenham Redbacks 7 1 43
Game 8 - Bristol Dockers 12 8 8 d Sussex Swans 4 3 27
Game 9 - Southampton Titans d Cardiff Panthers (Forfeit)

...

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Another Rioli Chapter Ends

July 4, 2018, 10:25 pm

≫ Next: AFL London Clubs Shine For Pride Round

≪ Previous: Big Weekend For Southern England Teams

Back in 1987 when legendary Richmond midfielder (called a centreman back then), Maurice Rioli retired, he left a hole in football. He raised the bar on what indigenous footballers could bring to our game and many wondered if we would ever see his ilk again. Then in 2008 Cyril Rioli arrived. No one can absolutely measure who was better - uncle or nephew - but Cyril lit up the game in ways reminiscent of Maurice - maybe not in style, but certainly in impact. Cyril's announcement yesterday to retire as a Hawthorn player and AFL great brings to an end another great Rioli career - though it will not surprise to see the id from the Tiwi Islands return to the NTFL with his former club - the "Green Machine", St Mary's.

Here is a video clip from the AFL showing the top ten highlights of Cyril Rioli's wonderful career.

Rioli was drafted by the Hawthorn Football Club as pick 12 in the 2007 AFL Draft. He debuted in 2008 and was a part of Hawthorn's premiership win against Geelong. Three more flags would follow, with premiership medallions in 2013, 2014 and 2015. He won the Norm Smith Medal in 2015 as best on ground in the premiership win against the West Coast Eagles. As well as numerous goal and mark of the year awards and nominations, Rioli was a three-time All-Australian and a Rising Star nominee in 2008.

His legacy to the game will be remembered for decades and generations to c ...

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AFL London Clubs Shine For Pride Round

July 5, 2018, 2:05 am

≫ Next: Fundraiser for Sri Lankan footy - July 28th

≪ Previous: Another Rioli Chapter Ends

This weekend in London, the annual London Pride Parade takes place and AFL London and its teams will be there in all the colours of the symbolic rainbow to celebrate. The clubs themselves have outdone themselves this year with a dazzling array of jumpers and club logos which represent the league’s and the club’s commitment to the LGBT community. The following article rom AFL England details the event from the AFL London perspective. An exciting assortment of club logos can be found at the end of this article.

Each June, LGBT Pride Month attracts millions of participants around the world. AFL England wants to recognise and celebrate the part that LGBT people play in the footy community, both in England and around the world.

This year, AFL London will become the first AFL league to march in a pride parade, as they take part in the Pride in London festival on July 7th, with the weekend also being marked by a special ‘Rainbow Round’ of fixtures in the capital.

AFL London President Cai Davies says that since coming out in 2016, his sexuality has been accepted by members of the footballing community, and he is now committed to raising awareness of homophobia within football.

“As a gay man growing up in a very masculine footy environment back in Victoria, I felt uncomfortable and ashamed for years,” said Davies. “There were a lot of uncomfortable conversations, and the homophobic language you would hear from players and spectators made me feel like less of a human compared to those around me.”

“Since moving over to London, and joining AFL London as an umpire and coach of the umpires, I have been upfront about my sexuality to everyone. The reaction over here, just like when I came out in Australia, was amazing and everyone embraced it.”

Davies also noticed that there was already a group of out and proud footballers here in London, and since becoming AFL London chairman in 2017, he worked with the goal of getting the league to march in London Pride.

He says that one of the major reasons for this is that the diversity and sense of inclusion on display in England are “leaps and bounds ahead” of back home in Australia.

“By us marching in the Pride in London march, the message will be sent back home that it’s ok to be yourself within the world of footy, as people will always embrace, support and accept you for who you are.

“Footy brings people together; we want to share this experience with the world.”

So far this year Davies and a group of volunteers from around the league have jumped on board and helped out with fundraisers including everything from bake sales and drag queen nights, to help with selling special Pride jerseys which players will then wear during the London Pride march.

“We are excited to continue to show our support to the LGBT community,” said AFL England President Jason Hill. “Our community is made up of so many individuals and it is important to celebrate that diversity.

“I personally get so much pleasure seeing our leagues, teams and players get behind these events and I know I speak for our committee in our full, and unwavering, support to be a completely inclusive community for anyone wanting to play, or support, our wonderful game.”

About Pride in London

Founded in 1972, Pride in London is an annual LGBT pride festival and parade held each summer in London. This year the festival will be taking place on Saturday 7th July.

...

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Fundraiser for Sri Lankan footy - July 28th

July 9, 2018, 2:05 am

≫ Next: AFL 2018 International Broadcast Schedule - Round 17

≪ Previous: AFL London Clubs Shine For Pride Round

Australian Football Sri Lanka and North Dandenong Junior football club presents Sportsman Night + $1000 draw to raise funds to develop football in Sri Lanka.

Australian Football Sri Lanka Inc. is committed to growing AFL within the Sri Lankan community, both in Melbourne and abroad.
Featuring guests Dyson Heppell, Aaron Heppell and Joffa.

Tickets are $50 including an all you can eat Sri Lankan buffet.

https://www.facebook.com/events/2542573695968216/?active_tab=about

Lois Twohig Reserve,80 Carlton Rd, Dandenong North
Saturday 28th July at 7pm

...

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AFL 2018 International Broadcast Schedule - Round 17

July 10, 2018, 12:22 am

≫ Next: Eagles Flying Lessons Paying Off

≪ Previous: Fundraiser for Sri Lankan footy - July 28th

Round 17 of the 2018 AFL Season kicks off Thursday night Adelaide time at Adelaide Oval with the Crows hosting the Cats.

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.

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

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Eagles Flying Lessons Paying Off

July 10, 2018, 2:20 pm

≫ Next: Ace's Story from the Gold Coast Suns

≪ Previous: AFL 2018 International Broadcast Schedule - Round 17

It may have read a 64-point defeat on paper, but the weekend’s loss for the West Lothian Eagles against the powerhouse Glasgow Sharks could be their most telling sign of improvement. In their second last developmental game of their inaugural season, they achieved a competitive double – preventing the previously rampant Sharks from posting a cricket score and managing to find enough avenues to goal to have 21 scoring shots.

Often, a late season match against a premiership favourite for a team with no finals prospects has crime scene written all over it. However, the Eagles have plenty to play for and were determined not to be intimidated by the Sharks. When the dust settles at season’s end and the review of the Eagles’ development year begins, their competitiveness against all teams will be a key factor in their future.

They can rightfully go into their final match in two weeks’ time against the Tyne Tees Tigers with a very real prospect of finishing the season with a win.

The Tigers themselves will be out to win after going down to the Kingdom Kangaroos. Going down to the Kangaroos by 37 points, the Tigers had possibly their best result on the road for their debut SARFL season. The Tiger learning curve has been almost as steep as the Eagles, having started a new life in Scotland for 2018 and learning to cope with new teams, a new competition, the travel and the expectations. But, their fighting effort against the Roos showed the Tigers have grown this season.

The Edinburgh Bloods kept a determined Greater Glasgow Giants team at bay with a 37-point win at home. It was a workman-like effort by the Bloods to get the points, but the Giants certainly kept themselves competitive in a game where pride and development were vital to their future.

The second last round will see three fascinating games. As well as the league’s newcomers meeting down in Newcastle when the Tigers host the Eagles, the Giants have a huge opportunity to finish their season on a high against the Kingdom Kangaroos. However, perhaps the match of the round will see a likely grand final preview when the Glasgow Sharks host the Edinburgh Bloods.

Final Scores:
Glasgow Sharks 19 16 130 d West Lothian Eagles 9 12 66
Kingdom Kangaroos 13 22 100 d Tyne Tees Tigers 9 9 63
Edinburgh Bloods 93 d Greater Glasgow Giants ...

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Ace's Story from the Gold Coast Suns

July 10, 2018, 5:44 pm

≫ Next: Inaugural Robert MacTier Cup Held in Péronne

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PNG young gun Hewago Paul 'Ace' Oea was recently signed by the Gold Coast Suns to an International Scholarship giving the club first rights to sign the footy prodigy at the 2019 AFL Draft. The AFL Academy listed Oea starred for PNG at the 2017 International Cup and was named best on ground in the Grand Final at the MCG.

The following video is from the Gold Coast Suns telling of Ace's time at the club so far.

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Inaugural Robert MacTier Cup Held in Péronne

July 11, 2018, 2:10 am

≫ Next: Scorpions Still In Premiership Race

≪ Previous: Ace's Story from the Gold Coast Suns

The following article by Will Taylor from www.afleurope.org looks at last weekend’s historic Robert MacTier Cup in France. To view the original article on the AFL Europe website, click this link: http://www.afleurope.org/mactier-cup-review/

It was a day to remember in Northern France on Saturday, when the inaugural Robert MacTier Cup took place in Péronne to mark 100 years since soldiers liberated the town from German occupation in 1918.

On a weekend that meant much more than just a football contest to all involved, players, officials and supporters embraced the friendly community to honour the heroics that took place in the small town all those years ago.

Arriving on Friday, many players took the bus from London crossing the French border before arriving in Péronne for the jumper presentation at the local Town Hall.

It was here that speeches were given by the Mayor of Péronne, Thérèse Dheygers and Managing Director at Ryebuck Media, Tim Gurry OAM.

As both teams were presented their jumpers, the captains for both sides were announced.

For The ANZACs, Hamburg Dockers star and coach Pete Richter was given the honour of leading the men in white out to the ground for the contest.

For The Liberators, Brad Agnew from the Glenelg Tigers in the South Australian Football League was selected to skipper the men in red.

Arriving at the ground that once made up the battlefields of Somme territory on Saturday, players were firstly involved in a kids clinic with local children from the area.

Teaching kids the unique code while emphasising just how fun the sport can be to play, players set up goal-kicking, handball and marking stations to ensure the little legends were exposed to all the skills of the game.

The clinic was an emphatic success as the game continued to capture the hearts of young ones around the continent.

After the clinic, the talented local Pipe Band performed as part of the pre-match entertainment, before the attention of the spectators was taken away by a couple of individuals floating high up in the sky.

Two parachutists with one carrying a French flag and one carrying an Australian flag made their way onto the deck before the national anthems were belted out by both sets of players.

In a mark of respect, both teams agreed to take a joint photo together and just minutes later the game was underway.

It was The ANZACs who got off to a quick start in the French town as they quickly escaped away to a two-goal lead minutes into the opening term. Threatening to break the game open, it was The ANZACs who looked the goods early before The Liberators found their way back into the contest.

Repeated efforts from Brad Agnew and Adrian Del Campo were instrumental in the side’s recovery in the backend of the first quarter. At the first change, it was the ANZACs by just one point and the game was on for young and old.

Coming into the second term, The ANZACs once again looked to capitalise on a slow start from The Liberators.With many targets down forward, it was Ben Polmear who seemed to be the biggest concern for The Liberators defence as he became The ANZACs first multiple goal-scorer. It was his side that took control in this quarter and gave themselves a 16-point lead heading into the main break.

Needing a response after half time, The Liberators managed to keep The ANZACs goalless in the third term. Having six shots at goal themselves, The Liberators failed to capitalise on multiple chances to take the lead as they kicked 2.4 in ‘The Premiership Quarter’ to trail by just two points at the final change.

In a tight and tense final quarter, both teams had chances to break the game open but the scores still remained extremely tight throughout the duration of the quarter. After The Liberators kicked a goal with just under a minute to go in the contest, The ANZACs were on the canvas and their lead was in severe trouble, but the men in white just held on.

The final margin was a slender five-points in a cracking game of Australian Football proudly honouring the occasion at hand.

Final Score:

The ANZACs 2.1 6.5 6.7 9.11 (59)

defeated

The Liberators 2.0 4.1 6.5 8.6 (54)

Goal Scorers:

The ANZACs: Ben Polmear (3), Alex Pictrus, Tate Gladresco, Pete Richter, Pierre Lechasles, Ryan Davey.

The Liberators: Tyson Vitale (3), Broadie Borg (2), Brad Agnew (2), Adrian Del Campo.

Pictures: Courtesy AFL Europe

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Scorpions Still In Premiership Race

July 11, 2018, 2:50 am

≫ Next: Galway Magpies Make Late Flag Charge

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Just a couple of rounds ago the Nottingham Scorpions had forfeited a match and were sitting in second last position on the AFLCNE ladder. Fast forward to last weekend and, courtesy of a forfeit by the Merseyside Saints and a tough win the week before against the highly fancied Wolverhampton Wolverines, the Scorpions are looking set to be the Manchester Mozzies biggest obstacle.

According to the AFLCNE, “with two rounds to go Manchester have won the minor premiership and look on course to retain the flag. However, with Nottingham strengthening their ranks recently they [the Mozzies] may not have it all their own way.”

Should they get through to the grand-final, the Scorpions would set up a third consecutive clash for premiership honours. After defeating the Wolverines two weeks ago in a tight battle by just 11-points, the Scorpions have reaffirmed their standing as the most likely challenger – though the race is far from over.

The Mozzies, for their part, have had little trouble dealing with their opponents on their way to a staggering fifth consecutive flag should all go to plan. They dished out a 111-point hiding to the fourth-placed Huddersfield Rams and followed it last weekend with a 96-point thumping of the Wolverines. The results showed the gulf between first place and third/fourth, and reaffirms the position of the Scorpions as the most likely flag challenger.

The Scorpions have the bye next weekend before preparing for the Rams in the final round. The Mozzies take on the Merseyside Saints at Huddersfield ahead of a final round bye whilst the host team will battle it out with the Wolverines.

Final Scores (Round 7):
Nottingham Scorpions 9 13 67 d Wolverhampton Wolverines 9 9 63
Manchester Mozzies 21 17 148 d Huddersfield Rams 4 13 37

Finals Scores (Round 8):
Manchester Mozzies 145 d Wolverhampton Wolverines 49
Nottingham Scorpions d Merseyside Saints (Forfei ...

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Galway Magpies Make Late Flag Charge

July 11, 2018, 2:55 pm

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After a great weekend for the Galway Magpies in Belfast, they now sit in second place on the AFL Ireland ladder. As a result of enjoying two wins for the day against the Leeside Lions and South Dublin Swans, the Magpies have joined the Lions on three wins for the year, but have just inched ahead of for and against. It puts the Magpies in a great position to fight for second place after the final rounds of matches are completed.

The Magpies turned their season around dramatically after downing the Swans by 20 points before taking on the Lions and inflicting a 70-point hiding on the reigning premiers.

It was also a huge day for the host team, the Belfast Redbacks. Having won both of their matches on the day, the Redbacks now sit undefeated for the season with seven wins. Finals are always a different beast, but the Redbacks have displayed an air of invincibility this season and will enter the final round and finals series as raging hot favourites for the 2018 flag.

They were pushed hard by the South Dublin Swans in their first game, getting across the line by a solitary point. Their second game against the Leeside Lions saw a comprehensive win, not just on the scoreboard but also psychologically as the Redbacks enhanced their dominance over the Lions after having beaten them back in May.

The results throw up the tantalising thought of two different teams perhaps contesting the 2018 grand-final. Last season saw the Lions down the Swans in the premiership decider. This season should see the Redbacks and on current form, the Magpies.

However, there is still time for many things to change, setting up a big finish to the AFL Ireland season.

Final Scores:
Belfast Redbacks 5 4 34 d South Dublin Swans 5 3 33
Belfast Redbacks 10 6 66 Leeside Lions 4 1 25
Galway Magpies 8 7 55 d South Dublin Swans 5 5 35
Galway Magpies 15 3 93 d Leeside Lions 3 5 ...

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