The NSWRL has released its draw for the 2012 VB NSW Cup and here are the dates for the home games for the Western Suburbs magpies to be played at Campbelltown Sports Stadium.
Please note all games are on a saturday and kick off is at 3pm
Rnd 1: March 3 v Manly Warringah Sea Eagles
Rnd 3: March 17 v Auckland Vulcans
Rnd 4: March 24 v Illawarra
Rnd 6: April 7 v Newtown Jets
Rnd 9: April 28 v Canterbury Bankstown Bulldogs
Rnd 11: May 12 v Wentworthville Magpies
Rnd 13: May 26 v Balmain Ryde Eastwood Tigers
Rnd 15: June 9 v Newcastle Knights
Rnd 20: July 21 v Cronulla Sharks
Rnd 23: Aug 11 v Windsor Wolves
Rnd 25: Aug 25 v Mounties
For rounds 8 and 21, the NSWRL have made this a special round of double headers and Western Suburbs will be one of four teams participating in the Foundation Challenge round. The magpies will play North Sydney whilst Newtown and Balmain Ryde-Eastwood will be the other game. A venue for the games has yet to be decided and will be played during the weekends of 21/22 April and 28/29 July.
We urge all our supporters to try and attend as many home games as possible. Bring your family, bring your friends, bring your neighbours, bring your work mates, bring those who support the opposition. The club needs your support now more then ever.
Wednesday, November 30, 2011
13 NRL teams represented in the VB NSW Cup
13 NRL teams will be represented in the VB NSW Cup in 2012 as
St George-Illawarra and Canberra return through joint-venture
partnerships with Illawarra and Mounties.
The 2012 season will be a 26 round competition which features a number of new initiatives set to reaffirm the VB NSW Cup as the premier feeder competition to the NRL.
The Newtown Jets will break new ground in 2012 as they leave their spiritual home at Henson Park and take their round 15 fixture against the Windsor Wolves to Pioneer Oval Parkes.
On what is the biggest weekend on the Parkes calendar, celebrations will include the Parkes Picnic Races on Saturday and culminate in this historic VB NSW Cup match on the Sunday.
The VB NSW Cup season will also see two unique rounds where three double headers will be played for individual trophies in a three-pool system. The pools will be the Foundation Challenge (Newtown, North Sydney, Western Suburbs and Balmain Ryde-Eastwood), the Battle of the West (Canterbury-Bankstown, Wentworthville, Mounties and Windsor) and finally, the Battle of the Coast (Newcastle, Cronulla, Manly and Illawarra).
NSWRL General Manager Geoff Carr says off the back of a stellar year in 2011, the VB NSW Cup looks set to only further enhance its position as the premier open-age competition in Australia.
“Around 500,000 viewers tuned into watch a thrilling Grand Final between Canterbury-Bankstown and Auckland last year at ANZ Stadium,” Mr Carr said.
“The success of 2011 season coupled with the support of our new sponsor in VB places the VB NSW Cup in a strong position to strengthen the competition.
“There is an ever expanding appetite for quality Rugby League at suburban venues and with the return of St George-Illawarra and Canberra, this will now expand the VB NSW Cup’s footprint into two of Rugby League’s heartland’s in the south coast and western Sydney.
“With games already being at quintessential suburban grounds such as Leichhardt Oval, Henson Park and North Sydney Oval, it exciting to see the return of defending premiers, Canterbury-Bankstown, to a refurbished Belmore Sports Ground.”
The season is set to start on Saturday, March 3, with the 2012 Grand Final again set down for NRL Grand Final day at ANZ Stadium on Sunday, September 30.
2012 VB NSW Cup structure:
NSW Cup club - NRL Affiliate
Auckland Vulcans - New Zealand Warriors
Balmain-Ryde-Eastwood Tigers - Wests Tigers
Canterbury-Bankstown Bulldogs - Own team
Cronulla Sharks - Cronulla Sharks & Melbourne Storm
Illawarra - St George-Illawarra Dragons
Manly Sea Eagles - Own team
Mounties - Canberra Raiders
Newcastle Knights - Own team
Newtown Jets - Sydney Roosters
North Sydney Bears - South Sydney Rabbitohs
Wentworthville Magpies - Parramatta Eels
Western Suburbs Magpies - Own team
Windsor Wolves - Penrith Panthers
The NSW Cup draw can be found here... http://www.nswrl.com.au/default.aspx?s=nswc-draw
The 2012 season will be a 26 round competition which features a number of new initiatives set to reaffirm the VB NSW Cup as the premier feeder competition to the NRL.
The Newtown Jets will break new ground in 2012 as they leave their spiritual home at Henson Park and take their round 15 fixture against the Windsor Wolves to Pioneer Oval Parkes.
On what is the biggest weekend on the Parkes calendar, celebrations will include the Parkes Picnic Races on Saturday and culminate in this historic VB NSW Cup match on the Sunday.
The VB NSW Cup season will also see two unique rounds where three double headers will be played for individual trophies in a three-pool system. The pools will be the Foundation Challenge (Newtown, North Sydney, Western Suburbs and Balmain Ryde-Eastwood), the Battle of the West (Canterbury-Bankstown, Wentworthville, Mounties and Windsor) and finally, the Battle of the Coast (Newcastle, Cronulla, Manly and Illawarra).
NSWRL General Manager Geoff Carr says off the back of a stellar year in 2011, the VB NSW Cup looks set to only further enhance its position as the premier open-age competition in Australia.
“Around 500,000 viewers tuned into watch a thrilling Grand Final between Canterbury-Bankstown and Auckland last year at ANZ Stadium,” Mr Carr said.
“The success of 2011 season coupled with the support of our new sponsor in VB places the VB NSW Cup in a strong position to strengthen the competition.
“There is an ever expanding appetite for quality Rugby League at suburban venues and with the return of St George-Illawarra and Canberra, this will now expand the VB NSW Cup’s footprint into two of Rugby League’s heartland’s in the south coast and western Sydney.
“With games already being at quintessential suburban grounds such as Leichhardt Oval, Henson Park and North Sydney Oval, it exciting to see the return of defending premiers, Canterbury-Bankstown, to a refurbished Belmore Sports Ground.”
The season is set to start on Saturday, March 3, with the 2012 Grand Final again set down for NRL Grand Final day at ANZ Stadium on Sunday, September 30.
2012 VB NSW Cup structure:
NSW Cup club - NRL Affiliate
Auckland Vulcans - New Zealand Warriors
Balmain-Ryde-Eastwood Tigers - Wests Tigers
Canterbury-Bankstown Bulldogs - Own team
Cronulla Sharks - Cronulla Sharks & Melbourne Storm
Illawarra - St George-Illawarra Dragons
Manly Sea Eagles - Own team
Mounties - Canberra Raiders
Newcastle Knights - Own team
Newtown Jets - Sydney Roosters
North Sydney Bears - South Sydney Rabbitohs
Wentworthville Magpies - Parramatta Eels
Western Suburbs Magpies - Own team
Windsor Wolves - Penrith Panthers
The NSW Cup draw can be found here... http://www.nswrl.com.au/default.aspx?s=nswc-draw
Tuesday, November 29, 2011
Background of the Magpie Awards
Thought some of you may like to know a little about the 2011 NSW Cup award winners and who the awards are named after. So with the help of the fantastic folk at Wests Archives ( thank you kindly ) below are details of who the awards are named after -
* Bill Carson Award (best local in grade) - former Western Suburbs forward who played for the magpies in the 1958 & 1961 Grand Finals against St George. He played over 100 1st grade games for the magpies. He also represented NSW and Australia against Great Britain in 1962. Upon retirement, Bill had a long career as an administrator at Wests rising to become our club president from 1977 to 1981.
* John Donnelly Award (best import in grade) - Prop forward who joined the magpies in 1975 from the NSW country town of Gunnedah. He was NSW Country Player of the Year in 1973. He played over 100 1st grade games for the magpies between 1975 to 1984 and also represented NSW and Australia. After leaving Wests, he played in the UK with the now defunct Southend Invicta. He was signed by Byron Bay to be their captain/coach for 1986 but died in a drowning incident in early 1986. Much loved and much missed larrikin.
* Alan Ridley Memorial Award (top try scorer) - tall winger who joined the magpies in the early 1930's from Queanbeyan. He was a member of Wests premiership winning team of 1934. Holds the record for most tries in a match for Wests (6) and also most tries in a season (18 which has since been equalled). He also represented NSW and Australia making 2 Kangaroo tours to the UK.
* Bobby Fisher Memorial Award & Jack Ashley Supporters Club Award - both are former members of the Western Suburbs Supporters Club from the Lidcombe Oval days with Jack being the former president.
Now a little about the award winners -
* Bobby Fisher Memorial Award - Aaron Sweeney - front row forward. Aaron is a local magpie junior who was a member of the 2002 SG Ball premiership winning team which included the likes of Liam Fulton, Ryan Hoffman and new eels recruit Ben Roberts. Aaron has also played in the QLD Cup for Ipswich, Burleigh Bears & Central Comets. In 2010 he played for the Windsor Wolves.
* Bill Carson Award (best local in grade) - Gus Aiga - wing/fullback. Played locally with the Campbelltown Warriors amongest others. Also had a brief stint at Cronulla U20's. Other brother Sam has recently played Bundaberg Cup with Cabramatta & Wentworthville.
* John Donnelly Award (best import in grade) - Leivaha Pulu - front row forward - recruited by the Wests Tigers from NZ, he played for Keebra Park High School before playing in Wests Tigers u20s.
* Alan Ridley Memorial Award (top try scorer) - Andrew Everingham - centre/wing - Newcastle junior who played Jersey Flegg and NSW Cup for Manly. Has been at Wests for 3 years. Was very unlucky to have suffered a broken thumb earlier this year just when the Wests Tigers came calling when Chris Lawrence was injured.
* Rookie of the Year - Amanono Tovio - wing/fullback - local junior from Campbelltown Eagles. Has represented Group 6
* Jack Ashley Supporters Club Award - Mitch Achurch - centre/second row/front row - played in the Parramatta juniors with Winston Hills before joining the Balmain junior club, Leichhardt Wanderers and playing in the Wests Tigers U20. He then joined North Qld and played for their feeder club, Mackay Cutters in the QLD Cup.
* Best & Fairest - David Harris - lock/second row - local junior from Campbelltown City Kangaroos. Also played in the Canterbury juniors at East Hills and managed to play for the Bulldogs U20's and briefly for Chester Hill when they were in the Bundaberg Cup.
* Leagues Club PLAYER OF THE YEAR - Troy O'Sullivan - utility back/hooker - originally from Canberra were he played for the raiders Jersey Flegg side before joining Ipswich in the QLD Cup ( where Aaron Sweeney was a team mate). The son of former Canberra Raiders halfback, Chris O'Sullivan.
(Originally posted on Wests Supporter Forum by Old Magpie Lad )
* Bill Carson Award (best local in grade) - former Western Suburbs forward who played for the magpies in the 1958 & 1961 Grand Finals against St George. He played over 100 1st grade games for the magpies. He also represented NSW and Australia against Great Britain in 1962. Upon retirement, Bill had a long career as an administrator at Wests rising to become our club president from 1977 to 1981.
* John Donnelly Award (best import in grade) - Prop forward who joined the magpies in 1975 from the NSW country town of Gunnedah. He was NSW Country Player of the Year in 1973. He played over 100 1st grade games for the magpies between 1975 to 1984 and also represented NSW and Australia. After leaving Wests, he played in the UK with the now defunct Southend Invicta. He was signed by Byron Bay to be their captain/coach for 1986 but died in a drowning incident in early 1986. Much loved and much missed larrikin.
* Alan Ridley Memorial Award (top try scorer) - tall winger who joined the magpies in the early 1930's from Queanbeyan. He was a member of Wests premiership winning team of 1934. Holds the record for most tries in a match for Wests (6) and also most tries in a season (18 which has since been equalled). He also represented NSW and Australia making 2 Kangaroo tours to the UK.
* Bobby Fisher Memorial Award & Jack Ashley Supporters Club Award - both are former members of the Western Suburbs Supporters Club from the Lidcombe Oval days with Jack being the former president.
Now a little about the award winners -
* Bobby Fisher Memorial Award - Aaron Sweeney - front row forward. Aaron is a local magpie junior who was a member of the 2002 SG Ball premiership winning team which included the likes of Liam Fulton, Ryan Hoffman and new eels recruit Ben Roberts. Aaron has also played in the QLD Cup for Ipswich, Burleigh Bears & Central Comets. In 2010 he played for the Windsor Wolves.
* Bill Carson Award (best local in grade) - Gus Aiga - wing/fullback. Played locally with the Campbelltown Warriors amongest others. Also had a brief stint at Cronulla U20's. Other brother Sam has recently played Bundaberg Cup with Cabramatta & Wentworthville.
* John Donnelly Award (best import in grade) - Leivaha Pulu - front row forward - recruited by the Wests Tigers from NZ, he played for Keebra Park High School before playing in Wests Tigers u20s.
* Alan Ridley Memorial Award (top try scorer) - Andrew Everingham - centre/wing - Newcastle junior who played Jersey Flegg and NSW Cup for Manly. Has been at Wests for 3 years. Was very unlucky to have suffered a broken thumb earlier this year just when the Wests Tigers came calling when Chris Lawrence was injured.
* Rookie of the Year - Amanono Tovio - wing/fullback - local junior from Campbelltown Eagles. Has represented Group 6
* Jack Ashley Supporters Club Award - Mitch Achurch - centre/second row/front row - played in the Parramatta juniors with Winston Hills before joining the Balmain junior club, Leichhardt Wanderers and playing in the Wests Tigers U20. He then joined North Qld and played for their feeder club, Mackay Cutters in the QLD Cup.
* Best & Fairest - David Harris - lock/second row - local junior from Campbelltown City Kangaroos. Also played in the Canterbury juniors at East Hills and managed to play for the Bulldogs U20's and briefly for Chester Hill when they were in the Bundaberg Cup.
* Leagues Club PLAYER OF THE YEAR - Troy O'Sullivan - utility back/hooker - originally from Canberra were he played for the raiders Jersey Flegg side before joining Ipswich in the QLD Cup ( where Aaron Sweeney was a team mate). The son of former Canberra Raiders halfback, Chris O'Sullivan.
(Originally posted on Wests Supporter Forum by Old Magpie Lad )
Monday, November 28, 2011
Wests Magpies 2011 Presentation Night Award Winners
The mighty Western Suburbs Magpies held their 2011 NSW Cup Presentation Night on Saturday 26th Nov at the Wests Sports Club, Croydon. The night was attended by players, coaching staff, club officials, volunteers, sponsors and supporters to say goodbye to a difficult and somewhat frustrating season for although the team missed out on the finals by just one point, everybody associated with the club can hold their heads up high.
The night was not only a presentation for the players but was also to pay homage to a couple of departing magpies - head coach Leo Epifania & jack of all trades, Stephen Reeves. Leo has been associated with the magpies for around 30 years having come up from the junior ranks in the pre Campbelltown days when Wests played out of Lidcombe, playing in the Jersey Flegg & SG Ball rep teams, through to third grade, reserve grade and finally first grade where he made his debut during the 1984 season and after finally hanging up his boots, took on coaching roles at Wests including Jersey Flegg and for the past 4 seasons, NSW State Cup head coach. Stephen has been involved in various volunteer roles at Wests for nearly 10 yrs including managing teams and his most recent role as, but not restricted to, the Western Suburbs Magpies office manager.
After the opening address from Chairman Paul Dillon, the players were handed their jerseys and acknowledgement given to the extremely hard working volunteers, the business part of the evening got under way. The award winners for 2011 are -
* 20 Years of Loyal Service - Bryan "Bluey" Schafer
* Bobby Fisher Memorial Award - Aaron Sweeney
* Bill Carson Award (best local in grade) - Gus Aiga
* John Donnelly Award (best import in grade) - Leivaha Pulu
* Alan Ridley Memorial Award (top try scorer) - Andrew Everingham & Leivaha Pulu
* Rookie of the Year - Amanono Tovio
* Jack Ashley Supporters Club Award - Mitch Achurch
* Best & Fairest - David Harris
* Club Person of the Year - Presented by Pratten Park Magpies - Stephen Reeves
* Leagues Club PLAYER OF THE YEAR - Troy O'Sullivan
Also special awards given to Josh Davis who made the NSW Residents Squad and David Harris who was named as one of the second rowers in the NSW Cup Team of the Year.
The club also acknowledged the achievements of Rocky Trimarchi & Rhys Lenarduzzi for making the Italian World Cup Squad and to Taqele Naiyaravoro who made his international debut for Fiji against the PNG Kumuls and to Jay Maseuli and Taqele for being selected in the Wests Tigers Toyota Cup team during the latter part of the NRL season.
Finally a big THANK YOU to all that help organise the evening - board of directors of WSDRLFC, staff and management of Wests Sports Club & Wests Ashfield, Wests Archives and all the Western Suburbs magpies volunteers, staff, sponsors, supporters and players.
The night was not only a presentation for the players but was also to pay homage to a couple of departing magpies - head coach Leo Epifania & jack of all trades, Stephen Reeves. Leo has been associated with the magpies for around 30 years having come up from the junior ranks in the pre Campbelltown days when Wests played out of Lidcombe, playing in the Jersey Flegg & SG Ball rep teams, through to third grade, reserve grade and finally first grade where he made his debut during the 1984 season and after finally hanging up his boots, took on coaching roles at Wests including Jersey Flegg and for the past 4 seasons, NSW State Cup head coach. Stephen has been involved in various volunteer roles at Wests for nearly 10 yrs including managing teams and his most recent role as, but not restricted to, the Western Suburbs Magpies office manager.
After the opening address from Chairman Paul Dillon, the players were handed their jerseys and acknowledgement given to the extremely hard working volunteers, the business part of the evening got under way. The award winners for 2011 are -
* 20 Years of Loyal Service - Bryan "Bluey" Schafer
* Bobby Fisher Memorial Award - Aaron Sweeney
* Bill Carson Award (best local in grade) - Gus Aiga
* John Donnelly Award (best import in grade) - Leivaha Pulu
* Alan Ridley Memorial Award (top try scorer) - Andrew Everingham & Leivaha Pulu
* Rookie of the Year - Amanono Tovio
* Jack Ashley Supporters Club Award - Mitch Achurch
* Best & Fairest - David Harris
* Club Person of the Year - Presented by Pratten Park Magpies - Stephen Reeves
* Leagues Club PLAYER OF THE YEAR - Troy O'Sullivan
Also special awards given to Josh Davis who made the NSW Residents Squad and David Harris who was named as one of the second rowers in the NSW Cup Team of the Year.
The club also acknowledged the achievements of Rocky Trimarchi & Rhys Lenarduzzi for making the Italian World Cup Squad and to Taqele Naiyaravoro who made his international debut for Fiji against the PNG Kumuls and to Jay Maseuli and Taqele for being selected in the Wests Tigers Toyota Cup team during the latter part of the NRL season.
Finally a big THANK YOU to all that help organise the evening - board of directors of WSDRLFC, staff and management of Wests Sports Club & Wests Ashfield, Wests Archives and all the Western Suburbs magpies volunteers, staff, sponsors, supporters and players.
Friday, November 25, 2011
Wests Tigers Home Games 2012
Campbelltown Sports Stadium
Rd 4 March 23-26: vs Canberra Raiders.
Rd 12 May 25-28: vs North Queensland Cowboys.
Rd 19 July 13-16: vs Penrith Panthers.
Rd 22 August 3-6: vs Parramatta Eels.
Leichhardt Oval
Rd 1 March 2-5: vs Cronulla Sutherland Sharks
Rd 11 May 18-21: vs New Zealand Warriors
Rd 15 June 15-18: vs Sydney Roosters
Rd 26: Aug 31-Sep 3: vs Melbourne Storm
Sydney Football Stadium
Rd 6 April 6-9: vs Brisbane Broncos
Rd 18 July 6-9: vs Canterbury-Bankstown Bulldogs
Rd 23: Aug 10-13: St George Illawarra Dragons
Sydney Cricket Ground
Rd 5 March 30-April 2: vs South Sydney Rabbitohs
The Rabbitohs clash will see Wests Tigers celebrate the 60th anniversary of the 1952 grand final between Western Suburbs and South Sydney at the SCG as part of the annual NRL Heritage Round. It was the last time Western Suburbs won the first grade premiership.
Campbelltown Sports Stadium will see Wests Tigers tackle fellow western Sydney clubs Penrith and Parramatta in 2 of the 4 matches to be played there.
The round 22 match against the Eels will be the first time Parramatta has played a premiership match against Wests Tigers at Campbelltown Sports Stadium.
Wests Tigers will start the season with a home game against Cronulla Sharks at Leichhardt Oval.
The venue will also host 2011 runners-up the Warriors in round 11 and the Melbourne Storm in round 26.
Wests Tigers will tackle big guns Brisbane, Bulldogs and St George-Illawarra Dragons at the Sydney Football Stadium – matches which should again draw huge crowds.
The round 6 game against Brisbane will be played on the evening of Good Friday over the Easter weekend.
In 2012, Wests Tigers want our valued supporters to ‘Belong, Become, Be One’ – a proud Wests Tigers Member!
Wests Tigers have a Membership option to suit every supporter with a great variety of packages including Gold, Silver and Bronze seating categories and various home match options.
Current Members have until November 30, 2011, to renew their same seats. For further enquiries, please call Wests Tigers Membership department on (02) 8741 3300.
Belong, Become, Be One in 2012!
Rd 4 March 23-26: vs Canberra Raiders.
Rd 12 May 25-28: vs North Queensland Cowboys.
Rd 19 July 13-16: vs Penrith Panthers.
Rd 22 August 3-6: vs Parramatta Eels.
Leichhardt Oval
Rd 1 March 2-5: vs Cronulla Sutherland Sharks
Rd 11 May 18-21: vs New Zealand Warriors
Rd 15 June 15-18: vs Sydney Roosters
Rd 26: Aug 31-Sep 3: vs Melbourne Storm
Sydney Football Stadium
Rd 6 April 6-9: vs Brisbane Broncos
Rd 18 July 6-9: vs Canterbury-Bankstown Bulldogs
Rd 23: Aug 10-13: St George Illawarra Dragons
Sydney Cricket Ground
Rd 5 March 30-April 2: vs South Sydney Rabbitohs
The Rabbitohs clash will see Wests Tigers celebrate the 60th anniversary of the 1952 grand final between Western Suburbs and South Sydney at the SCG as part of the annual NRL Heritage Round. It was the last time Western Suburbs won the first grade premiership.
Campbelltown Sports Stadium will see Wests Tigers tackle fellow western Sydney clubs Penrith and Parramatta in 2 of the 4 matches to be played there.
The round 22 match against the Eels will be the first time Parramatta has played a premiership match against Wests Tigers at Campbelltown Sports Stadium.
Wests Tigers will start the season with a home game against Cronulla Sharks at Leichhardt Oval.
The venue will also host 2011 runners-up the Warriors in round 11 and the Melbourne Storm in round 26.
Wests Tigers will tackle big guns Brisbane, Bulldogs and St George-Illawarra Dragons at the Sydney Football Stadium – matches which should again draw huge crowds.
The round 6 game against Brisbane will be played on the evening of Good Friday over the Easter weekend.
In 2012, Wests Tigers want our valued supporters to ‘Belong, Become, Be One’ – a proud Wests Tigers Member!
Wests Tigers have a Membership option to suit every supporter with a great variety of packages including Gold, Silver and Bronze seating categories and various home match options.
Current Members have until November 30, 2011, to renew their same seats. For further enquiries, please call Wests Tigers Membership department on (02) 8741 3300.
Belong, Become, Be One in 2012!
Saturday, November 19, 2011
LAWRENCE TO PLAY IN FOUR NATIONS FINAL
Wests Tigers centre and Magpies Junior Chris Lawrence says playing in the Four Nations final would be a dream come true.
The Wests Tigers and Australian centre and his team-mate in prop Keith Galloway have played in all 3 pool games and now have their fingers crossed for selection in the Australian side for the Four Nations Final against England at Elland Road, Leeds.
The Final will also be Darren Lockyer's last game but Lawrence admitted that there won't be any fairy tale finishes for one of the game's true legends unless the Aussies are on their game.
"England is dangerous all over the park. They have a great forward pack, young halves and some really dangerous outside backs. They've turned into a side that can not only go up the middle but they can go out wide and score from anywhere. We need to put in a good performance for 80 minutes or they'll get us," he said.
The Wests Tigers and Australian centre and his team-mate in prop Keith Galloway have played in all 3 pool games and now have their fingers crossed for selection in the Australian side for the Four Nations Final against England at Elland Road, Leeds.
The Final will also be Darren Lockyer's last game but Lawrence admitted that there won't be any fairy tale finishes for one of the game's true legends unless the Aussies are on their game.
"England is dangerous all over the park. They have a great forward pack, young halves and some really dangerous outside backs. They've turned into a side that can not only go up the middle but they can go out wide and score from anywhere. We need to put in a good performance for 80 minutes or they'll get us," he said.
The mind games ahead of Saturday's Four Nations final were
cranked up on Thursday with Australia coach Tim Sheens and his England
counterpart Steve McNamara naming 21-man squads for the Elland Road
decider.
Sheens has included every fit member of his squad for the game, but it's believed Jharal Yow Yeh has the upper hand in the battle for the right-wing spot ahead of Josh Morris.
It is likely to be the only change to the side that started against England in the 36-20 win at Wembley two weeks ago.
Tony Williams is available again following his one-match suspension, and will take his place back on the bench for Darren Lockyer's final game.
Luke Lewis has recovered from illness with Anthony Watmough and Chris Lawrence to overcome shoulder injuries and play.
Willie Tonga and Billy Slater are both unavailable due to injury.
England backrower Gareth Ellis has fully recovered from the back spasm that ruled him out of the win over New Zealand last week and will start.
"Gareth has trained all week very well, and we are very confident he will be fit to play," McNamara said.
The return of Ellis could lead to heartbreak for his Wests Tigers teammate Chris Heighington who could be the man to miss out.
Heighington has been involved in all three of England's games, but was overshadowed by Jon Wilkin's performance against the Kiwis.
Wilkin played the full 80 minutes as Ellis' replacement at the KC Stadium and was very impressive.
Speculation is rife among the English media that he could get the nod to start in the final over Heighington.
England: Sam Tomkins, Ryan Hall, Jack Reed, Karl Yeaman, Tom Briscoe, Kevin Sinfield, Rangi Chase, Danny McGuire, Gareth Widdop, James Graham, Garreth Carvell, James Roby, Jamie Peacock (capt), Adrian Morley, Ryan Bailey, Jon Wilkin, Ben Westwood, Gareth Ellis, Chris Heighington, Jamie Jones-Buchanan, Carl Ablett. (four to be omitted).
Australia: Darius Boyd, Jharal Yow Yeh, Greg Inglis, Chris Lawrence, Akuila Uate, Darren Lockyer (capt), Johnathan Thurston, Matt Scott, Cameron Smith, Paul Gallen, Sam Thaiday, Luke Lewis, Anthony Watmough, Tony Williams, David Shillington, Keith Galloway, Cooper Cronk, Beau Scott, Daly Cherry-Evans, Josh Morris, Corey Parker.
Referee: Matt Cecchin (Australia)
Sheens has included every fit member of his squad for the game, but it's believed Jharal Yow Yeh has the upper hand in the battle for the right-wing spot ahead of Josh Morris.
It is likely to be the only change to the side that started against England in the 36-20 win at Wembley two weeks ago.
Tony Williams is available again following his one-match suspension, and will take his place back on the bench for Darren Lockyer's final game.
Luke Lewis has recovered from illness with Anthony Watmough and Chris Lawrence to overcome shoulder injuries and play.
Willie Tonga and Billy Slater are both unavailable due to injury.
England backrower Gareth Ellis has fully recovered from the back spasm that ruled him out of the win over New Zealand last week and will start.
"Gareth has trained all week very well, and we are very confident he will be fit to play," McNamara said.
The return of Ellis could lead to heartbreak for his Wests Tigers teammate Chris Heighington who could be the man to miss out.
Heighington has been involved in all three of England's games, but was overshadowed by Jon Wilkin's performance against the Kiwis.
Wilkin played the full 80 minutes as Ellis' replacement at the KC Stadium and was very impressive.
Speculation is rife among the English media that he could get the nod to start in the final over Heighington.
England: Sam Tomkins, Ryan Hall, Jack Reed, Karl Yeaman, Tom Briscoe, Kevin Sinfield, Rangi Chase, Danny McGuire, Gareth Widdop, James Graham, Garreth Carvell, James Roby, Jamie Peacock (capt), Adrian Morley, Ryan Bailey, Jon Wilkin, Ben Westwood, Gareth Ellis, Chris Heighington, Jamie Jones-Buchanan, Carl Ablett. (four to be omitted).
Australia: Darius Boyd, Jharal Yow Yeh, Greg Inglis, Chris Lawrence, Akuila Uate, Darren Lockyer (capt), Johnathan Thurston, Matt Scott, Cameron Smith, Paul Gallen, Sam Thaiday, Luke Lewis, Anthony Watmough, Tony Williams, David Shillington, Keith Galloway, Cooper Cronk, Beau Scott, Daly Cherry-Evans, Josh Morris, Corey Parker.
Referee: Matt Cecchin (Australia)
Thursday, November 17, 2011
RSVP for the Presentation Night required by Sunday
Fellow Magpies;
Please be advised all interested parties wanting to attend the Football Club's Presentation Evening next Saturday 26th November @ 6pm at Wests Sports Club must RSVP.
The RSVP Deadline is 6pm - Sunday 20th November
RSVP to Mr. Robert Cairns 0414 946 330
Western Suburbs Magpies Presentation Evening
Where:Wests Sports Club Croydon
When: Saturday 26th November 2011
Time: 6pm for 6.30pm Start
Dress: Smart Casual
Cost: $25.00 for members and $30.00 for non members. All money goes directly to the Football Club.
Please be advised all interested parties wanting to attend the Football Club's Presentation Evening next Saturday 26th November @ 6pm at Wests Sports Club must RSVP.
The RSVP Deadline is 6pm - Sunday 20th November
RSVP to Mr. Robert Cairns 0414 946 330
Western Suburbs Magpies Presentation Evening
Where:Wests Sports Club Croydon
When: Saturday 26th November 2011
Time: 6pm for 6.30pm Start
Dress: Smart Casual
Cost: $25.00 for members and $30.00 for non members. All money goes directly to the Football Club.
Tuesday, November 15, 2011
Western Suburbs Magpies DRLFC Presentation Night.
Greetings
Fellow Magpies. The Football Club will be holding its Club Presentation
Night on Saturday November 26th at Wests Sports Club, Croydon. 6pm for a
6.30pm Start.
The Board apologies for the delay but is happy to inform the members and supporters of the Mighty Maggies that there will be an end of season event. It will be great occasion to thank the players for their efforts in 2011 and more importantly to thank Leo & Steve for all their hard work and years of blood, sweat and tears before they leave the Nest.
Western Suburbs Magpies Presentation Evening
Where: Wests Sports Club Croydon
When: Saturday 26th November 2011
Time: 6pm for 6.30pm Start
Dress: Smart Casual
Cost: $25.00 for members and $30.00 for non members. All money goes directly to the Football Club.
Further enquiries can be made to Mr.Robert Cairns M:0414 946 330
The Board apologies for the delay but is happy to inform the members and supporters of the Mighty Maggies that there will be an end of season event. It will be great occasion to thank the players for their efforts in 2011 and more importantly to thank Leo & Steve for all their hard work and years of blood, sweat and tears before they leave the Nest.
Western Suburbs Magpies Presentation Evening
Where: Wests Sports Club Croydon
When: Saturday 26th November 2011
Time: 6pm for 6.30pm Start
Dress: Smart Casual
Cost: $25.00 for members and $30.00 for non members. All money goes directly to the Football Club.
Further enquiries can be made to Mr.Robert Cairns M:0414 946 330
Saturday, November 12, 2011
Remembrance Day - Wests players who made the ultimate sacrifice
The Western Suburbs magpies pays tribute to those who made the ultimate sacrifice and especially to the following who lost their lives at war whilst wearing the black and white -
George Duffin - died at Gallipoli 19th Aug 1915 - fullback for Wests in 1908
Charles Rothwell - died in France 28th Jan 1917 - played for Wests 1912-14
Alan Keato - died in New Guinea 16th Dec 1943 - played for Wests 1943
Lest We Forget
George Duffin - died at Gallipoli 19th Aug 1915 - fullback for Wests in 1908
Charles Rothwell - died in France 28th Jan 1917 - played for Wests 1912-14
Alan Keato - died in New Guinea 16th Dec 1943 - played for Wests 1943
Lest We Forget
Saturday, November 5, 2011
Magpies Web Address to Change
The Western Suburbs Magpies web address will change in 2012 to www.westsmagpies.com.au
That's right. We are replacing the dot net with a dot com dot au.
That's right. We are replacing the dot net with a dot com dot au.
Friday, November 4, 2011
Wayne Taekata
Men of League North Coast Visited Wayne Taekata who was recovering from a broken hip that required replacement. ‘Tac’ is a former Western Suburbs Magpies and North Sydney Bears first grader, who is from Tamworth and moved to Coffs Harbour as Captain / Coach of the Comets in 1997, 98 and 99.
The Magpies wish "Tac" a speedy recovery!
The Magpies wish "Tac" a speedy recovery!
Some Magpies visit Mavis
As reported on our Facebook page, ex-Magpies Michael Stolk, Andrew Pearn and big Alex Raneiri again donned the Black and White and went and visited Mavis who is a long time Western Suburbs Supporter.
Even though sadly all these boys have left the nest, it is good to see they have still maintained that Western Suburbs spirit of mateship and are continuing to be a positive asset to the community.
Good on you lads.
Even though sadly all these boys have left the nest, it is good to see they have still maintained that Western Suburbs spirit of mateship and are continuing to be a positive asset to the community.
Good on you lads.
Presentation Night Changes
Dear Ladies and Gents,
Yes, a new date. I have been asked to notify you all that the Presentation Night/Day is on Saturday 26th November 2011. Venue and time to be advised. Campbelltown Leagues Club, Wests Ahfield Bowling Club and Wests Ashfield Leagues Club are being considered. I can not offer any more information at this stage.
I apologise for the changes in dates. As you know I have just returned from an overseas holiday.
Can you let me know if you are available.
I will send a message to all players.
Regards to one and all,
Steve Reeves
Yes, a new date. I have been asked to notify you all that the Presentation Night/Day is on Saturday 26th November 2011. Venue and time to be advised. Campbelltown Leagues Club, Wests Ahfield Bowling Club and Wests Ashfield Leagues Club are being considered. I can not offer any more information at this stage.
I apologise for the changes in dates. As you know I have just returned from an overseas holiday.
Can you let me know if you are available.
I will send a message to all players.
Regards to one and all,
Steve Reeves
More Magpie Internationals
Our big winger during the year, Taqele Naiyarovoro, played for the Fiji
Bati against Papua New Guinea Kumuls on Sunday 30/10/11 at Mt Hagen and
scored a try in their surprise 26 to 12 win.
Read more here: http://www.postcourier.com.pg/20111031/sport01.htm
Italy are through to the 2013 World Cup after their 19 all draw against Lebanon played in Belgrade, Serbia on 29 Oct. Rhys Lenarduzzi was again on the interchange whilst ex-magpie Ben Falcone scored a try for Italy. Former magpie frontrower Alex Rainieri started the game but left the field injured during the first half. Italy led 18 nil at halftime but Lebanon fought back to snatch the lead 19 to 18 with a field goal with about 4 minutes to go. Then from the kick off, there was a fumble by Lebanon and Italian halfback Ryan Ghietti kicked the equaliser with 2 minutes left on the clock which was enough to get Italy into their first ever Rugby League World Cup with a better for/against then Lebanon.
Read more here: http://www.postcourier.com.pg/20111031/sport01.htm
Italy are through to the 2013 World Cup after their 19 all draw against Lebanon played in Belgrade, Serbia on 29 Oct. Rhys Lenarduzzi was again on the interchange whilst ex-magpie Ben Falcone scored a try for Italy. Former magpie frontrower Alex Rainieri started the game but left the field injured during the first half. Italy led 18 nil at halftime but Lebanon fought back to snatch the lead 19 to 18 with a field goal with about 4 minutes to go. Then from the kick off, there was a fumble by Lebanon and Italian halfback Ryan Ghietti kicked the equaliser with 2 minutes left on the clock which was enough to get Italy into their first ever Rugby League World Cup with a better for/against then Lebanon.
Thursday, November 3, 2011
Marshall Rogers Golf Day ready to tee off
MARSHALL Rogers was a passionate rugby league supporter, and when he wrapped up his Western Suburbs Magpies playing days he kept his passion firing by sharing his knowledge with the next generation of young Magpies.
When Rogers died suddenly in 2007, aged just 50, his grieving family looked for a suitable way to honour him and keep his memory alive.
The annual Marshall Rogers Golf Day, now in its fourth year, raises funds to help educate a talented young player both academically and on the football field. Rogers’ family offers the opportunity through St Gregory’s College, Campbelltown.
“We wanted to keep Dad’s memory alive by helping out young players coming through the ranks, just like he did for the young players he coached,” son Ben Rogers said.
He said the day, scheduled for November 9 this year, was about giving back to the community, but it also took a community effort to pull it off each year.
“We normally have about 120 people attend, which is close to the maximum,” Rogers said.
“though there’s always room for new people and companies.
“St Greg’s came on board to help us out and they’ve been fantastic as has Camden Lakeside golf club.
C91.3 were the first to put their hand up four years ago and their support has been outstanding.”
The four-ball ambrose (18 holes) gets under way with a breakfast at 7.30am. Play starts at 8.30am.
The registration cost includes breakfast, drinks, lunch, golf and entertainment.
Contact Ben on 0409 879 905 or Lyndal at lyndal@c913.com.au
When Rogers died suddenly in 2007, aged just 50, his grieving family looked for a suitable way to honour him and keep his memory alive.
The annual Marshall Rogers Golf Day, now in its fourth year, raises funds to help educate a talented young player both academically and on the football field. Rogers’ family offers the opportunity through St Gregory’s College, Campbelltown.
“We wanted to keep Dad’s memory alive by helping out young players coming through the ranks, just like he did for the young players he coached,” son Ben Rogers said.
He said the day, scheduled for November 9 this year, was about giving back to the community, but it also took a community effort to pull it off each year.
“We normally have about 120 people attend, which is close to the maximum,” Rogers said.
“though there’s always room for new people and companies.
“St Greg’s came on board to help us out and they’ve been fantastic as has Camden Lakeside golf club.
C91.3 were the first to put their hand up four years ago and their support has been outstanding.”
The four-ball ambrose (18 holes) gets under way with a breakfast at 7.30am. Play starts at 8.30am.
The registration cost includes breakfast, drinks, lunch, golf and entertainment.
Contact Ben on 0409 879 905 or Lyndal at lyndal@c913.com.au
Magpies in World Cup Qualifier
A European World Cup Qualifier was played back on 15 Oct involving the Italian team and they beat Russia 92 to 6. Magpie Rhys Lenarduzzi was on the interchange bench but came on and scored at least 1 try. EX- Magpies Alex Rainieri & Ben Falcone ( 2 tries) were in the starting line up. They play Serbia on 23rd Oct and Lebanon on 29 Oct. Rocky Trimarchi didn't play.
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