I've figured out the selection policy!

It has taken me a while. Now however I realise that you cant be dropped if you are in the Ford adds that are supporting the telecast.  There can be no other explanation for Hayden being safe until the end of the South Africa series.  That means the only candidate to replace him is Bill Lawry - or the woman who generously gives two players to the other team.

Wouldn't it be good if Hughes from NSW was in the Ford adds?

Cricket - an afterthought

I just read this quote from the skipper of the Channel 9 All stars re the reinclusion of Andrew Symonds:

"That's what we all love about him. We all love his personality and the way he is around the team.
"I love the way he goes about his cricket on the field as well."

What is on SBS?

Channel 9 All Stars featuring Andrew Symonds

I have resolved to refer to the former Australian cricket team as the "Channel 9 All Stars" from now on.  I remember fondly the days when form counted for selection purposes. Now it is "great to have his spirit back amongst us" - I made that quote up but it's my take on the "Andrew Symonds re-selection - come back Andrew all is forgiven", endless saga that has emerged as the only distraction from the "Punter are you a true Anzac, mate how could you not go over the top into the face of the machine gun when your mates were depending on you?" tale that we have brought back from the home of cricket.

Andrew Symonds is a good cricketer - but should he be in the Australian squad?  I'm not going to quote his stats (I'm too lazy to look them up) but my feel is (and this qualifies now as a basis for writing) that he isn't a great cricketer. He has played some good innings at test level and taken some handy wickets.  He is a marvelous fielder - but he is not the man who should be rushed back into the squad at this point of the season. I don't follow the breakfast cereal cup all that closely but I haven't been aware of stellar form so far.

I think the reaction of the Australian team to Ando's reinstatement sums up the insular, cocooned nature of the team and the reason why there has emerged a breach with many of their former supporters. There is a view that some should be there because they are liked by the chosen - not because they have been scoring runs or taking wickets.

I look forward to the Black Caps niggling us to the point of frustration and Ando being 13th man.

Bring on New Zealand!

I for one am looking forward to the series against the team from New Zealand. This should be a closer series than the one we just lost against India.

Will Jason Krezja keep his spot. Will Matthew Hayden (Haydos to himself) retire at last? How many overs will Michael Hussey bowl? Will Brett Lee do better?

We must wait ten days before the series gets underway.

Bring it on!

Supercoach eschews goal scoring for better passing down back!

It took me some time to work out. 

A number of the TFC boys are fronting up for Futsal over the "summer" - we call it that because we have already used the terms winter, autumn and spring.  I was an interested observer last night - seeing the third grading game of the pre-season.  

I was struck by the TFC skill down the back - good in close duels - of which the TFC boys won their share.  Their opponents - not being as schooled as the TFC machine finished off their forward thrusts with obvious moves - a number ending in goals.  TFC however was practising the down back strategy and passing. Goal scoring comes later in the pre-season.  

I was taken by the similarity to the old footy coaching ploy - bring the ball out at training just before the season starts - concentrate on fitness, strategy and team building until then.  The TFC boys kept up their training routine - their opponents oblivious, thinking they were scoring a great victory.

Supercoach treated the game of futsal with the respect it deserves - it is to outdoor football (the beautiful game) as the PS3 Tiger Woods Championship Golf is to a round of 18 holes at St Andrews.

Mind you , I am all the wiser now - it was until passing the Wagon and Horses that I thought we had lost.

Supercoach - we salute you.

Whatever happened to philosophical integrity?

I saw a punk with a great Mohawk at Salamanca the other day.  He was carrying earth-friendly recyclable bags. 

If there is "no future", why bother with recycling?

What is your excuse this time, cricketerati?

So, India are one-up.  What happened to the invincible Australian team? Perhaps we were outplayed by a better team?  

Peter Roebuck's suggestion that a composite team would feature three Australians and one is "iffy" (Shane Watson) suggests were are not the number one team at the moment.  

I look forward to your responses! 

Or is it Sandy Bay?

Happened to come across Partisan supporter Rodd Banks Smith of "why do I do it?" fame last night. I described the plan for the Derwent City venture - including the fly-in Snooker.  Mr Banks Smith Junior was unimpressed and asked us to return to the Bay.

What say you Partisans?!

Partisans!

Carbon Credits

With our newly planted silver birches coming into leaf I'm wanting to calculate our rate of carbon capture and determine when I can upgrade to a V8.

Who has a carbon credit calculator?

Partisans to bowl again?

The question has been asked (by Snooker actually) - are we returning to the greens?

All we need is a team, a competition and a venue.

Having conquered the Indoor Centre, it may be time for us to move to Derwent City - next to League Headquarters.

What do you think?

That time of year again...

We have entered that desert between AFL Grand Final Day and the start of the Pura Cup (being a traditionalist I'm not going to call it the Sheffield Shield).  

My predictions in March for the AFL proved woeful - I think predicting Hawthorn will have an awful year must go down as one of the worst - although perhaps there is more to be revealed?  Is there an unknown story that will surface only in the days of blur following their win?

I did predict Geelong wouldn't win it again - but...

So now to cricket - that great cause of so many heartaches for the traditionalists and closet conservatives that make up the cricketerati.  Of course the main game now is the IPL - but that is some months off.  In the meantime we can amuse ourselves with a traditional tour of India - I look forward to seeing Harbajahn and Kumble on their home pitches.  Also, to seeing Johnson, Clark and Lee on dustbowls.

Bring it on...Then back to Australia for a couple of tours before we head back to the home of cricket for the IPL.

By that time Richo will be in top shape for the season ahead.

Breakfast of the Partisans!

Team members and followers of the Partisans tribe will remember the carbo loading diets of the early 21st century.  This was essential training for the big clashes at the Indoor Centre - where we remain reigning premiers - and for the outdoor fun at salubrious Sandy Bay.

Over time protein becomes more important. A sneak peak into the Partisans diet of the late decade reveals the following cook by pictures delight.

Enjoy

King Kevin

Gone!

All my predictions came to naught.

My questions remain unanswered.

A long season ahead.

And the winner is - St Kilda!

Clearly the best place to finish on the AFL ladder was fourth - if you weren't Geelong that is.  That way you lose to Geelong but don't have to play them again until the Grand Final.  

This was Blight-like strategy.

Pity St Kilda hasn't got the team to go all the way - to be beaten again that is.

Oh we're from Tigerland!

As I indicated at some point through the season - when you cant make the 8 a premiership year for Richmond is beating Collingwood, Carlton and Essendon.  We beat Carlton (once - put us on top of the ladder for two days). Essendon (twice) but Collingwood - not once!  

Not a bad year actually - a good franchise to follow is the Tigerland team. After 40 years I'm quite happy with 5 premierships - matches up quite well with Collingwood - one in 50 years!

Bring on 2009.  

Engineer sighted at track - TOTE in trouble.

On my afternoon at the track who should I run into but the Architect of the Taroona success - none other than Geoff (used to be Jeff - on my blog anyway) Guus The Engineer (Farook - for those who remember) Atkinson.  His name is so long now one can see him from a fair way off.

Well imagine my lack of surprise to find Geoff (for short) is an ACE punter.  He dissected the Race Book with a precision known only by Key Hole surgeons and Swiss watch makers.  He knew all the details - who had won where, in what conditions, their bloodlines, form, propensities etc etc.

Given his crafty stewardship of the Taroona team this came as no surprise.

At the track he also played the longer game - passing up obvious choices in the here and now to engineer a massive collect some time in the future.   This is no simple case of delayed gratification - but a clever, painstaking creative process of building a chance into an inevitability. Much like his coaching.

Geoff (for short) revealed his past as a filmaker and punter of note around the nation to the select few.  As always, the unpredictable Geoff (for short) left before all others - one suspects it was so none others saw the limo that is the only suitable transport for this sporting and punting Giant.

Devils Extinct! Ho Hum

In the end I think it was the sheer artificiality of it all that killed them.  Playing in the Victorian League - bearing almost no resemblance to the proud VFA.  The Northern Bullants? Yeah sure. Trying to create a club based on the ambitions of a few administrators. I think the Mariners were a better idea.

The move from North Hobart to Bellerive was another nail.  At least when the Taters played at League Headquarters with Jason the Heater up forward there was something to cheer about.

Playing at an empty Aurora stadium didn't generate much atmosphere either.

Coaching appointments were wide of the mark. The Guernsey was appalling from the start.

Bring on the Statewide League - I look forward to the club versus AFL Tasmania fights over promises made and broken already.

I also look forward to the Hobart Lions Premiership. Is The Heater still going around?

No David Minchin? No Giant Hamsters!

Seriously David Minchin is the Giant Hamsters - sure Greg Cracknell's an important part of the band but the rest are essentially support personnel.

No doubt we wont hear the Porpoise Song again.

A sad day for Hobart baby boomers.

I think the Little Hamsters would be more appropriate now.

Your ABC - not mine!

Why must the ABC local radio coverage of the Olympics replay all those medalist commentaries over and over again?  Who ever was it who decided radio replays were interesting, entertaining or exciting - they are not. A bit like the Grandstand coverage of AFL replaying commentary - we can do without it please.

One good thing is there is less Statewide mornings- that only lasts until 10.

I'm not paying my license fee next year!

6 Eagles - not bad for one round!

Driving today we saw 6 eagles - 4 wedge tailed and 2 sea eagles.  I don't think I've ever seen more than one on one day before.  Must be the time of the year?

Anyway, back to the bunker!

"It's been a journey..."

No it hasn't!

This is one of the phrases I promise not to use - except in quotation marks.

Engineer engineers last piece of the jigsaw

In a stunning realization of Coach Atkinson's prediction Beachside Green have triumphed over the mighty Glenorchy Knights - which means Taroona is second.  

How does this man do it?

Can the Bartlett Government be re-elected?

The Bartlett Government is performing well so far.  The Premier's approach is a breath of fresh air - he puts due process and ethical conduct above political convenience.  The new team at the top is acknowledged to have performed well through the first days of the Wriedt matter.

But what happens in 2010 when the current parliament is up for election?  Can the candidates whose names have featured in the media for all the wrong reasons carry the Labor Party back to the Treasury benches?  

Or is it time for some new blood?

It would be great to see some fresh new candidates with some runs on the board (outside of the party).

Taroona 1 Nelson Nil - season over.

It's clear that Supercoach Geoff Guus Hiddink Atkinson plays the long game.  All season he has had his eye on second place - (and if other results go as planned) - that will be the result.  A summer of thinking "we finished second" is all about motivation for next year - a slow simmer ready to be brought to the boil when the Under 15s run on next year.  

Whatever the outcome of those other games though Taroona will finish with the best defensive record of the league - led by the Imposing Joey Taylor - whose clean sheet today was never in danger. (At the other end the goalie tried to match the Imposing Joey with his voice)

Liam O'Donovan put home one more net - since game 3 he has scored every week.

A great team effort again in a tension laden match - Ben Wisby, Joey Atkinson, the above mentioned, Chris and Mat Etherington,  Jack O'Sullivan, Will Hunt and Angus all made significant contributions.  One Joseph Haddon tackle in particular exemplified concentration, resilience and pluck and turned Nelson attack into Taroona thrust. James Doyle and Tom have careers in logistics - making sure deliveries arrive in style and on time - if they want them! James Tathum deployed courage and a deft foot when needed.

The almost beheaded Zac Osborne peppered the goals with shots that but for his nearly headless  Nick status would have gone in.

Behind it all the puppet master - Supercoach Geoff Guus Hiddink Atkinson - also known as the Engineer (or Farook to those who remember) pulled the strings with substitutions and moves designed to heat the pressure cooker - almost to steam whistling point.  When the said receptacle was opened there was Nelson - cooked to perfection.

Looking back on a year of moves, foreign jaunts, shock inclusions, culling numbers to increase team concentration and pre-game preparations on a plastic chair while the "Sweet" air of Kelvedon dealt with Friday night leftovers , is a fine picture indeed.  A Monet I think.

A hastily convened meeting after the game heard the Engineer crowned Coach for Life and the decent question posed "why arent you in Beijing Geoff?"

A League free to air

When will the A League make free to air television? I look forward to quiet Sunday nights in front of the telly watching the Mariners towel those toffs from Sydney FC!

Kevin Keegan - the new (old) Messiah?

We are very close to the start of the EPL season - just need to get the first week of the Olympics out of the way.  When Kevin Keegan returned to Newcastle United in January I predicted a European future for the Toon Army.  Unfortunately it was some time before a point was bagged and the year didn't quite end the way I predicted - a not unusual event (having tipped Richmond to win 22 AFL games per year for the past 7 or 8 seasons!)

This season must be the one that determines whether or not Kevin is really worthy now of all that adulation he has received.  A full pre-season, a chance to shape the list, a chance to plan which games to win, which to draw and to practice lines to feed the media in any eventuality. 

Being a magpie team we must already point out "the draw is against us!"  Match 1 is a game against Manchester United - who seem to be fairly decent.

And of course the Refs are clearly against us...

Still, we can remember the Kevin of old if we cant match the old to the present we want.  

EPL or FFT U14 Div 3?

Which is the better comp?  Yes in the EPl there is the big four - in the FFT U14Div 3 there is the big four as well.  Watching the EPL is impossible unless pay television is installed. At  least the FFT U14Div 3 is accessible.  However, in the EPL the competition provides referees.  When will FFT do the same?

Coach Atkinson triumphs with unusual ploy!

Ever more inventive Coach - Engineer Guus Geoff Atkinson (fast becoming the longest name in football) delved deeply into the psyche of his Taroona charges this morning and devised a cunning plan to challenge them to step up again.  Deciding that 11 players are a luxury he sent his men onto the field with 10 players.

The Huon Valley side was notable for two reasons - one their magnificent goal keeper Trent Weir who saved countless attacks and secondly a player who  came to the attention of  Super Ref Tim O'Sullivan.

The Taroona side is fast becoming a team without stars as everyone plays their role.  Contributions are made selflessly - personal games are sacrificed for the good of the team. Schemes are hatched that lead to glorious results - Liam O'Donovan's second half goal was a good example today - many contributed to winning and placing the ball where the original goal sneak danced to perfect time and netted another beauty.

Ben Wisby opened the scoring with an Exocet that not only beat the teeth polishing wind but also the wall that is Tent Weir.  

All played well today. We await the return of the Japanese expeditioners for the final game of the season - who knows what Samurai wisdom will be brought through customs on Monday morning.  

Under the Ranelagh rainbow a team fewer in number prepared for the final outing with a disciplined thoughtful approach. Coach Atkinson (the shorter version) - that enemy of complacency - will no doubt twist the tale again!

Hello world - this is the Partisans Forum!

In a move reminiscent of one of Geoff Atkinson's global travel tactics we have gone open access.  Anyone can comment now - given that members have taken a vow of silence in a bid to be ready for the next Indoor Bowls season.  I retain the editorial rights however and only members can post.

Let the games begin!

Kelvedon oh Kelvedon!

I still hear your sea waves crashing!

A draw today - the first of the season.

After a mysterious Japanese expedition on the part of two team members and a Melbourne Victory try-out for another, the Taroona boys constructed a two nil lead - one to the ubiquitous Liam O'Donovan and one to Zac Osborne .  The Knights from the Glen cobbled together one goal before  a miracle goal that tied the scores late in the game.  From then the ball raced up and down the field - like medieval jousting charges - as both sides went for the kill.

A great game to watch. Ben Wisby in goals showed poise and skill.

Sayonara Kelvedon - the last home game of the season.

Next week Ranelagh.  By then the Japanese influence may be on show?

Shane Heard, Chris Etherington and Craig Kelly

Taroona Supremo Geoff Guus Hiddink Atkinson dug deep into the bag of coaching tricks to flummox the Kingborough Lions on Saturday.

Firstly he sent two key players - brother Mat and Chris - to another venue until just before the game started.   Then in a flash - they were at the ground stripped and shock inclusions - a bit reminiscent of Shane Heard's inclusion for the Big V all those years ago. Then Chris was given the job of minding the KL superstar  whose return has been a minimum two nets each game so far (except for the game where Chris played on him earlier this year (no goals)). 

I like tagging - it appeals to me as a great tactic. Chris executed it to the letter. One boundary line sequence of throw ins led to the first occasion where the KL player didn't look for the superstar because he knew Chris would spoil the throw.  I was in awe of the concentration (focus) and dedication.

Guus called on his men to play a reticent attacking game.  It worked (first goal to Liam) until the KL conglomerate pulled a trick from the St Kilda  repertoire.

What Guus hadnt expected was the old Moorabbin trick - water the ground, ask the superstar to run to the muddy spot, assume the Taroona players are not wearing snow shoes and kick over the goalie rather than past him.  Unfortunately this led to our downfall.  

We now look forward to Guus's next trick - I caught him checking a travel guide for Japan at half time.  What could that signal?

Taroona back on track

Your humble correspondent must admit he didnt make the trip to New Norfolk. I remember when in 1991 the savs were all gone by half time!

That might have been a different code (ground and time) but I have never forgotten or forgiven.

Taroona faced the demon of complacency this week and overcame it - more clever tutelage from Engineer  Geoff Atkinson (who now spells his name with a G in a tilt to Guus Hiddink).  Coach Engineer Atkinson decided a remodelling of travel cohorting was called for and I was banished to Sorell. As a result the team was even more focused than last week.

Taroona netted 7 - including two from the Imposing Joey Taylor.

More details as they come to hand - hurry up Football Federation of Tasmania.

Partisans in media blitz!

Last week we saw a stern faced Kerryl (is there any other?) in the Mercury staring down those "unions"!

Tonight Phabulous makes a long awaited return to our TV screens - who can forget the 2002 election night coverage?  He looked like a veteran protester.

Hollywood also featured this morning in the Mercury.

Who can be next?

Perhaps Snooker on the front page of the SMH at the WYD!

BFN

Hope and Anchor

It is  a real pity that this lovely old Hobart institution is "boarded up".  I didn't ever go there much but the Sunday Roasts were a treat and it was a good place on the way home for a quiet cleanser.

Occasionally there was even Jazz.

Where is our budding publican who can turn it back into a winner?

Coach Atkinson a brilliant Engineer

Pre-game there was much talk about engineering, fishing, tangles, nets and velcro.  This was another brilliant focusing strategy - Taroona focused on the net and found it three times - a trademark Liam snap and two from Mr Wisby - one a brilliant header that found the tangled hair and then the untangled net. 

Guus Atkinson cast the net far and wide today and caught two schools at once. 

Beachside failed to score despite Mr Jamison's Carlton scarf.

Of some interest pre-game was the Club Secretary's warning to the longest haired player on the team that he must Headband it or get it cut.  My cheque will be in the mail soon Sir!

Taroona in shock loss! Board "right behind" Coach

In a shock at the Showgrounds Taroona scored two brilliant Ben Wisby goals - the latter being a deft, slow motion tap that flummoxed the goalie.

However, the Tilford Zebras scored 5 to take the three points.

In a prepared statement after the game, an anonymous Board spokesperson stressed that the Board are "right behind" Coach Jeff "Guus" Atkinson.

Next week - Beachside!!

Polak down.

Unfortunatly, Mr Polak was hit by a tram in Melbourne last night after a game for Coach's mighty Tigers.. In a 'critical but stable condition' so he has a fighting change, a sad event. Jokes about playing for Richmond will not follow until it becomes clear that he will recover.

PS nice to see some videos of the soccer in there I hadn't seen them!

Guus speaks post match

Allowed into the rooms for the first time your humble reporter captured this post-match address. Clearly a guided democracy works...32 goals in 5 weeks says it does.

This man should coach the Soceroos...

Attempt at goal

Spectacular if not successful...

Goal at Kelvedon

Under the tutelage of Jeff "Guus" Atkinson players have flowered. Seen here is a goal which made up one of Matthew Etherington's hat trick. From a long range this man is deadly...

Kerryl breaks through!

May I gently point something out to you, Sir Coach. There are no snapshots attached or otherwise.

May I also ask question? If you don’t respond to a blog by using the “reply “ button, what, pray tell, is its purpose? Are you implying it has no functional contribution to make to the virtual reality of the electric-type blog?

Come in Kerryl...Kerryl - are you there?

Technology is a mystery to some.  It transpires Kerryl has been contributing to this blog - or so he thought.  I bring you a snapshot of his contributions made over the last few months:

We need more commentary options!

Had the misfortune of hearing the dead men currently employed to commentate and so on, do the Hawthorn Essendon game on Saturday. Who cares what happened 30 years ago? Not Generation Z that's for sure.

The AFL is in danger of losing market share as the number of actual participants in local footy dwindles. We need more commentary options. Why not an option whereby you can select your commentators - based on themes. EG a Richmond commentary team, a Gen Z team, a Rock and Roll commentary, a literary commentary, comments from the stands etc.

Tim Lane and Robert Walls may do it for you but I have moved on.

This is a product on the way out - you heard it here first.

SImon Katich scores a century...

Give me the IPL any day. I have watched two overs but it's great to know it's on.

I was there - FIFA are here!

Saturday saw the Taroona boys continue their juggernaut-like ride to the top. A 7 -1 victory over the Huon Valley team - who had caused problems in previous years - was almost unremarkable. We are coming to expect it. Mind sets are shifting - even bending. Mastercoach Jeff Atkinson has worked his magic on his players and now turned the parents as well.

Of note were all seven goals - James Cherry the artist netted two, Liam O'Donovan grabbed two and could have had a hat trick, Matt Etherington started the deluge with a curler from way out, Jack O'Sullivan played an inspirational second half on 1 and 1/2 legs and topped it with a goal and Zac - always dangerous near goals - netted one. The Taroona boys dominate the major goalscorers in the League. Of course the defence was solid. Joey had little to do but did it well.

Unfortunately there will be a three week break now. This will give FIFA the chance to examine this phenomenon. And they just happen to meeting in Sydney this week.

Is this pure coincidence?

Matsercoach Jeff has announced he will be away next week. Will he be meeting Blatter?

Another triumph for Mastercoach!

One of the downsides of knocking off the top team is another team becomes top and you have to do it all again!  Well Mastercoach Jeff Atkinson has done it all again.

Picture the former home of the dish lickers, the site of the Inter Dominion, the proposed home of the AFL team we dreamt about in the 1990s - yes the Hobart Show Grounds - now a Caravan Park and Sunday Market Place.  Jeff took his charges north to Glenorchy for the match against the Glenorchy Knights who became top of the ladder following the demise of the Kingborough Lions. On arrival there were the Knights drilling on the pitch side - already kitted out and looking like mediaeval knights ready for action in a jousting that would see the Taroona boys skewered on poles.  

Taroona of course takes a more modern approach to the pre-match routine.  I am yet to figure it out but again it has worked.

Come game time, the fierce Knights started strongly.  Taroona broke that run of a goal to the opposition in the opening seconds and counter attacked vigorously.  The Taoona goal was a beautiful team effort - Liam finishing the job with another deft touch.

Taroona attacked constantly while Glenorchy repaid the favour with rapier thrusts only to meet the Imposing Joey - solid and flairsome in goal.  Come half time Taroona were one up.  The second half saw even more determined attacking from the jousters. At 10.52 Mastercoach Jeff in a Hiddink like ploy asked his attackers to stay back.  Only in the last ten seconds did he Knights look like scoring - they hadnt factored in the Imposing Joey who imposed himself yet again and secured the three points.

The FFA had recognized the  phenomenon that is the Taroona Under 14s by supplying - for the first time this season - a Ref and two linespersons plus a Refs coach.  Spectators quizzed Coach Jeff as to what his magic consisted of - of course none should try to dissect such artistry. It only leads to silly instructional videos and Dummies guides. You've either got it or you haven't!

Next week Ranelagh. Taroona on a roll. The Mastercoach still plotting and planning! Stay tuned.

As the Taroona boys left the site of many a Grand Parade there were the knights warming down.  Bemusing really!

Finally, someone has started looking out for "working families"!

Ignored or patronised by the "elites", who has represented the welfare of this minority? Nobody!

The H****d Government? Oh no! All they cared about was "Working Australians" - a motley collection of untrustworthy, shape-shifting, good-for-nothings who ate all the pork H****d could fit in the barrel and then voted for a bunch of "economic conservatives". 

Well, it turns out that these tight-arses have been champions of the welfare of a completely different constituency. And I'm not talking about those narrow-minded idiots from that wasteland called "Middle Australia". As a quick aside how many champion Rugby League players have come from "Middle Australia"? There's been plenty from Narromine, Tingha, Roma, Cunnamulla, and Bushy Park of course. Middle Australia? They might have had a couple of state champion butterflyers.

Well the future looks bright for "Working Families", at least until they get uppity and decide to become "Aspirational Australians".

Mastercoach Discovered!

I have been lucky enough to see the Taroona Under 14 Boys Soccer Team over the last two weeks.  What a revelation.  After a slow start to the year and an injury to key player Ben Wisby the future did not look all that bright for the Taroona team.  Then came the visit from New Norfolk.  While the Norfolk team had struggled they copped a hiding at Kelvedon park - going down 14 - 1.  The teamwork exhibited by the Taroona boys was beautiful to watch.  Behind this display was Mastercoach Jeff Atkinson -- a quiet, measured and strategic director - with a smouldering passion for the game - if ever there was one.

This Saturday saw Taroona front up to the previously undefeated Kingborough Lions.  Within seconds Kingborough was on the board. This led one of their players to call "Dont get cocky Kingborough".  Taroona then kicked 5 unanswered goals with precise teamwork that flummoxed the Kingborough boys. Again, Mastercoach Jeff, pacing quietly by the sidelines, had imposed a strategy that neutralised the Kingborough gun player and made space for the Taroona attacks.

He is already a legend and you may here more about him here - or elsewhere!

Why would I mess with such a beautiful sight?

Well because it is a little out of date.  While the Tigers have been trying they are not there yet.  

Anyway, I have recently read Andy Summers' "One Train Later" and Ronnie Wood's "Ronnie".  There is no comparison.  The former is a good read from start to finish - the latter is one name drop ramble from start to finish.  Yes there may be no comparison between their impact on music but if you want an intelligent read try Andy's book.  The State Library has a big hold waiting list for Ronnie but it was a major disappointment to me.

I visited the fine Taroona High School today - what a site for a school! I didnt see a "new wave of disengagement" there!

Gee I'm excited about the Dream Team versus the Vics. Of course I'm barracking for the Vics as Richmond is my franchise.  Yes, Richo is playing for the Dream Team but what a guernsey. Grant Allford could design better. It would be black with a yellow sash I suspect!

And the IPL - perfect product for our 5 second society.

And apparently there is a Rugby League Test on tonight. Let me nail my colours to the Kiwi mast.  The Test Players have to back up tomorrow for Club Games - now that is tough!

And Pete Doherty is in jail - any of you boys know who he is?

Tigers in the 8!

More beautiful sights on the AFL ladder!  Richmond above St Kilda, Essendon and Brisbane.  At this stage we are taking it week by week - this week we face the previously undefeated Bulldogs. I think we might run with them.  That would be Phabulous!

I tipped the Bombers, Port and Adelaide. Collingwood were certs to lose but I went with them. Richmond kept me in the tipping comp.  

What's more I'm looking forward to the start of the IPL this week.

"I'll cop it on the chin"

Is anyone sick of hearing this phrase?

Since when has it become acceptable to manouvre the spotlight onto your own magnanimous gesture of accepting your due punishment for a despicable act? Are player's agents, PR gurus -these linguistic contortionists - the ones to blame?

In the few words Barry Hall has uttered it is pretty clear that he feels there were extremely mitigating circumstances for his actions. I'm not sure what they might be, but you can bet his team of legal advisors will track somebody down.

Rugby League's Greatest Shame

Surely the image of the greatest game of all cannot sink any lower. In its spiritual home, at one of its iconic landmarks, rugby league's reputation has been sullied beyond repair. The half-hearted antics of a few shaven down, untapered, budgie smuggling-wearing posers, whose nocturnal fantasies involve working on their "PB", have upstaged and, I fear, inflicted irrepairable damage to rugby league's eminence as "the" academy for social pathology.

Who is this pretender Darcy, stealing column space from the professional operators this city is so proud to have been banning from its drinking establishments since the foundation year in 1908? This boy has no schooling of substance in acts of public indecency. He certainly boasts no substantial rugby league career that would account for his recent behaviour. He is making it up as he goes along and pretty soon will be exposed as a fake.

The fact that swimming teams are usually the refuge of latent homosexuals and others with perverted incliniations, only heightens the greatest game's enbarrassment. Where was Craig Gower patrolling Darling Harbour, ensuring that innocent bystanders were put in headlocks and that young ladies feared for their safety? Where was Willie Carne ensuring tables were duly urinated under? Julian "the Stool" O'Neill thoughtfully filling team mates shoes with faecal reminders of an ill-spent weekend on the turps? The Gaz yelling down the mobile at a bewildered female stranger "Fire up, you sad c***"?

Do we need to recall the tremendous work the Bulldogs have done, voluntarily, to enhance the standing of the game? 

As if the media attention that pretender Wayne Carey has been getting is not enough of an insult to league's proud tradition. Let's just remember for one moment folks, Carey had to temporarily migrate to the U.S.A. to ply his trade (and a pretty uncommitted apprentice he has proven to be). That country is a backwater when it comes to drunken blokes causing mayhem - sports stars there have no comparable record. When was the last time Tiger Woods was arrested for public urination (schoolboy stuff, by the way)? Also, the infrequency of Carey's appearances on charge sheets and in the media is testament to his lack of real commitment to being a social nuisance.

No. There is only one sporting code that has selflessly embraced its role as a school for our best young men, and it appears its time is over. It is likely Australia will never be the same again.  

Hollywood flees country! (To Hollywood!)

Mystery surrounds the reasons why our perennial squad member Hollywood has fled Australia for the United States.  

Here at Partisans! we can reveal the answer.  While the public story is that he is involved in assisting the US labor movement to learn from itself, others have suggested Hollywood's widely acknowledged talent for mimicry has scored him a gig in his eponymous city.

Partisans can reveal the real reason.  The AFL roster this week sees Collingwood line up for the annual upset against Richmond.  Having last night advised Phabulous that Richmond wins over Carlton, Collingwood and Essendon in one year equate to a Premiership how many others can claim their team is 1/3rd of the way to a Premiership already?  The only thing that worries me is it may be too early in the season for an upset to have a real effect on the Pie supporters.  For that reason the boys from Tigerland may opt to help set up Collingwood for a later fall - by tanking this week. It's all part of the 15 year plan.  

Of course the other reason may be that Hollywood doesn't want to have to front up with another bottle of red for me on the morning after the match.

Stay tuned for more travel plans.

Keegan and Newcastle inspired by Richo?

In January I predicted Newcastle could play in Europe next year.  Two months later, inspired no doubt by the Tigers crushing victory on Thursday night, they have finally won a game!  I have adjusted my prediction to be that Kevin and the boys can look forward to the Premier League next August!

All eyes now turn to the friendly with Singapore!

Aahh - blissful days!

Any more guesses?

A clue for you.

AFL Predictions

Well here they are.  

Richmond - a great side just waiting for the right time to stop tanking.  5 premierships in the last 50 years - tell that to any Collingwood supporter.  Sure to tantalise again. Go Richo. Prediction - 9th!

St Kilda - 1 premiership. 1 awful - no make that three - awful guernseys. Some of the worst supporters on earth - Kerryl for example. Prediction - top 4.

Geelong - everybody sees another flag for the cats. Not me - I still remember the ill-fated holiday trip to the coast to play the Brisbane Bears. Over confidence will destroy their season - will make the 8 but injuries will make a the difficult year.

Adelaide - will finish in the top two and play in the Grand Final. Likely to win it. Prediction - Premiers.

Port Adelaide - awful song, great suburb.  Loyal Labor voters. Nicole's two step sons to have  a big year. Prediction - top 4.

Essendon - great choice as coach. I think he is learning his trade before he comes home - something I said for the last 27 years. Prediction - will make the 8.

Sydney - will continue to annoy many but not me. Top 4 finish.

West Coast - not to my taste. Due to miss out.

Fremantle - great song. Mathew Pavlich for the Brownlow - best nose in the comp. Prediction - in the 8.

Brisbane - will make the 8.

Collingwood - Malthouse to be the first coach sacked.  Collingwood supporters to say "the umps have had a good game" at least once.

Carlton - what a boring bunch. Judd to pine for the west and head back by round 10.  The last good player was David Rhys Jones.

Melbourne - snooze.

North Melbourne - deep snooze.

Western Bulldogs - some great supporters but on life support. Rod Eade to turn up at Richmond as a volunteer.

Hawthorn - (I had to consult AFL.com t0 see who the other team was!) Will have an awful year after some promise last year. Buddy Franklin to ask for an open clearance. Prediction  -who cares!

Coleman medalist - Matthew Richardson

Tigers on top

Don't we all look forward to Good Friday - so named because Richmond will be on top of the ladder all day!

Ahh - the cricket!

Well the international season is over. What a soap opera it turned out to be.  It was way worse (hip talk) than The OC and may have even rivalled One Tree Hill.  Some may even suggest Laguna Beach.

Seriously - time for the contacted players to join Actors Equity - perhaps a few guest spots on Home and away are in order.

What a great finish - the Aussies left wondering as they have since the end of the Sydney test.  The Indians cock a hoop - the Turbanator on fire. I'm thinking of crafting my best niggler eleven - Graeme Smith is a cert to open and the Turbanator is already fitted out with his blazer that will be styled to upset.

Poor old Punter - ended up a feather duster if ever there was one - yes I know he scored a great century.

Has the swagger gone? Has Mr Zero Haydos killed off the weeds - I think not.

RIP the Tri Series!

ABC radio programming will be much the poorer until the night before Good Friday when the Tigers thrash the Blues.

OK - where is this?

Is this not the most beautiful place in the world?

Any guesses as to where this is?

Tigers - 2 out of 3 in February!

Has a nice ring to it. Read all about it here and here.

That makes a winning percentage of 66.6 (recurring) for the month of February. I look forward to March.

Magnificent Tigers create Saints false security

How welcome the product that is AFL! After a summer where cricket lost its way (again) it was thrilling to see the mighty Tigers in their NAB Cup turnout. And what a result. All the Saints fans will be cracking the champers, talking of dynasties, preparing for Friday night triumphs and betting big all year. You supporters of other franchises (remember Bob Dylan is "not a commercial artist") have the Tigers to thank for the stubbies you will win in bets with hapless romantics that follow the Moorabin fantasia franchise.

Having followed my franchise for 40 years I found a number of moral victories last night:
- we had the better guernsey - seriously its time to dump the tricolour boys;
- we took mark of the year (at this point);
- we had the better song;
- we have more room for improvement;
- we didnt draft Nellie Gehrig;
- we ran onto the ground first;
- 40 points is a lot better than 157; and
- It's February.

Looking further back (but only to last year):
- we beat Sheedy and Hird in their farewell to the MCG; and
- We beat Collingwood.

And just one more point:

- 10 premierships (five during my lifetime) beats 1!

Great to watch!

The cry of "Partisans!"

Minding my own business (unusual I know) in North Hobart today I heard the hallowed cry from a car I didn't recognize. It was the son of "why do I do it?" himself. Has anyone else heard it lately?

Andy Blignaut

Speaking of people from the past, whatever happened to him?

The Died Pretty v. Ed Kuepper, Enmore Theatre, 08/02/08

This was a nail-biting affair. Part of the Don't Look Back series, which sees local and international bands going head to head in a shortened form of the game (performing a classic album from start to finish). Not to be confused with the IPL's recently announced EP series with high profile recruits Chad Morgan and Wendy and the Rockets.

The Prettys went into extra time to try and prove their superiority after a slow over rate and premature pitch invasion threatened to subvert the competition. Fortunately, sanity prevailed, although this had nothing to do with the poor level of officiating by the Bangladeshi in the white coat, and a victor was declared at the end of the affair.

Ed Kuepper presented an impressive lineup of hardened performers (ex Laughing Clowns, Saints, Sunnyboys), who with (corn) relish and an element of Waugh-like singled mindedness brutalised the "Honey Steels Gold" Album from the pearly nineties. Midway through the innings Kuepper launched into a full-blooded thuggish assault on the title track, which took spectators (and commentators) aback and left them wondering whether the Pretty could respond to such a Kluseneresque performance.

The Prettys were undeterred. With the original lineup from the classic "Doughboy Hollow" era, Ron E. Peno took up his customary opening position and proceeded to charismatically win over the spectators, while Brett Myers thrilled with Gower-like flourishes of his Stratocaster. By the end of the performance, grown (and heterosexual-looking and acting) men were yelling out, "We love you Ronny!"

This correspondent must worryingly report that the whole affair was conducted with the utmost cordiality. Being only twenty two years old, one can merely rely on rumour, hearsay, inuendo and the dubious accounts of those chardonnay-quaffing, latte-drinking, self important elites (you'd never come across a regular Australian bloke in a pub trying to give his opinion on anything) that there was ever anything other than the boorish, mean-spirited, unintelligent display that we currently expect from our national performers. We won't recount here the delusions of that seriously discredited lawyer masquerading as a musical authority and critic, Roebuck, who with his political equivalent, Chomsky, are now languishing in superfluity (that's some Italian lakeside retreat).

Mind you, what else would you expect from long-haired, drug-taking, jobless dilettante musicians - no wonder they never made it into the Top Forty.

Your correspondent can gladly report that an eventual winner was declared - rock n' roll! Though I don't think the fucker did a thing all night - relied on past reputation more than anything. I called it a fair dinkum draw - the crowd were demanding a replay, but some bloke in a suit was saying that they'd already booked a fashion parade and that it was logistically impossible to reschedule.

Bring on Sonic Youth and The Scientists!

Does one need to like to enjoy? Discuss

our nations first 11, lets be honest, how many of them do we actually like. The decent Clark (Stuart), Hussey and maybe Gilchrist (not for much longer)...Ponting because of his class (is he a traitor to it?) and his suburb? But what do we think about Haydos, Clark the tool (Michael)....and what do we think about Lee, does he fall into the area he aims for most often, the corridor of uncertainty?

For years I adored the team regardless of behaviour or demeanour for they wore the baggy green but age and perspective have changed that...loved the larrikins Lillee and Marsh, but Greg Chapple and the other Greg...Mathews???? The term wanker comes to mind.

I no longer barrack for the team...I enjoy the game and therin lies my dilema. I detest Shane Warne...but the way he bowled....and then we have the poms, nothing there at all....

does one need to like to really enjoy?

Let me be the first to say it...

What a fabulous tri-series so far. Two washouts, some great Indian batting (Dhoni and Gambhir) and bowling (Sharma), Brett Lee's spell yesterday, the Sri Lankan's attitude to their batting on Friday night. This is perfect end of summer stuff. At one point I was even barracking for the rain.

Pity this is the last series.

Long live tradition - bring on the one day tournament!

I know it is unfashionable amongst the cricketerati but I love the one day tournament and wish it was more than a four game per opponent stoush again.

What do I love about it? Let me list the things:

- It is not the test cricket of the early and late 1970's (which I remember)
- The period between overs 25 and 40 when I can watch, listen or not
- The games between the two visitors - I always pick a side to support (India this time)
- The Net Run Rate
- The Strike rate
- The Player Comfort Level (well I did love it before it was dropped)
- The change in expectations - 50 in 15 overs was considered a good performance, now you might crack 100.
- The fact that there is something on television to watch during the week (Beam me up Scotty!)
- The fact that there is something to listen to on the radio
- The newer or older players who are brought into the squad as the tournament progresses- Noffke certainly deserves a chance
- The fact that the cricketerati hated it when it was first played - now they are worried 20/20 will kill it off!
- The atmosphere at the ground
- The unashamed commercialism - as opposed to the "let's pretend Bob Dylan isnt a commercial artist" attitude of the test cricket erati.
- The underarm incident
- The fact that we all barracked for Australia A versus Australia
- The suspense as we watch to see who will make the final (series)
- The Third final
(and more)

Unfortunately this is all to end. I will enjoy this series immensely and know that the next few summers - until we see sense again - will be all the poorer without it.

Thank you Mr Packer!

Ah, memories!

I was reading the post 'Kerryl muzzled' and Coach's description of him as our 'esteemed driver' reminded me of one glorious night, the Partisans' Meteor limousine, swathed in victory departed the Moonah indoor bowls centre...

Our driver on that occasion, Coach, perhaps earned the title of our 'less-esteemed' driver on that night; after an encounter with a particularly generous member of the constabulary and a non-encounter with a red traffic light, delivered us safely home. Victory, licence and skeletal structure intact!

Speaking of the likes of Phabulous and Kerryl, shall we see them making a post or are the Partisans again fielding a strong 3 with a ring-in perhaps? (I thought I should start a post to relieve Coach while he is at the bar buying a round)

"Of beauty rich and rare..."

I thought Howard was gone. Yesterday was unbelievable around Hobart - lots of cars were decked with little Aussie flags. A neighbour said "Happy Australia Day long weekend" to me. As we were walking up the Brooker Highway a car went past with a young woman leaning out singing/screaming the National Anthem. I looked for a hint of irony but I saw none. Surely not I thought.

What happened to our good old long weekend holiday no matter when January 26 fell - a weekend where most Aussies went somewhere to relax if not camp, perhaps have a barbie and wonder why we had a long weekend? There were certainly no flags in sight apart from at very poorly attended ceremonies for a few who were becoming citizens.

All I felt was a strong sense of alienation. I was born here - I had no choice. I'm an aussie by accident. I like the place but more days like yesterday will lead to asking Mrs Clark to fire up the Hercules for my evacuation.

Tomic-Naut

George Martin gave the Beatles their chance. Snooker may be remembered for his call for Tomic to be bandied around. He is through to Round 4 of the Boy's singles. In Januarys to come will we hear of his preparations for the Open, will this be his year? Which soap star will he marry?

Given Lleyton's demise it's none too soon for a new star. Chris Guccione carried our hopes for a weekend (before the Open began). Given Lleyton's record though he is the best Australian men's player in history. He will end up on the high side of rank 30 in the world this year.

Did Peter Roebuck beat Australia?

How much did the very public and widespread questioning of the all conquering Aussie team's approach and behavior undermine their cricket? It was visible in Ponting's between test media work - he was clearly taken aback with the fuss surrounding the Sydney test - perhaps surprised that he and his team were not the universally loved champions they assumed. Why didn't he open the bowling with the supposed tearaway Tait - an early wicket might have set the tone for the whole game. Why did he choose to ask Brett Lee to bowl from the end he did - where he would not gain the advantage of support from the wind. Where was his 'best since Bradman' batting?

At the end of the game there are some clear team weaknesses - Rodgers didnt really get a chance but Clarke - despite another second innings success - Johnson and Tait are the most obvious problems. Ponting's captaincy can be challenged but not by the new Dirk Welham (Michael Clarke). Ponting is out of form. In terms of the approach to the game there was a definite improvement from Sydney - but has the team learnt or is it just hiding its approach after being hurt by the public reaction? Listening to "Haydos" and "Alfie" on Friday on Channel Nine's coverage suggests the latter.

Under John Howard anyone who questioned Australia's approach was pilloried. A similar reaction greeted Peter Roebuck.

Kevin Keegan returns to Newcastle Utd

I expect to see the real magpies' results skyrocket. The 4 - 1 result in the FA Cup round is not a bad start.  Imagine the lift in the dressing room! Like Tommy going back to Tigerland, like Jack Dyer sending a text to Richo before the game ... like Kerryl actually turning up for a game at Sandy Bay. Relegation is now out of the question - perhaps a Euro spot is on the way?

John Howard's Cricket team

John Howard was all about winning - there was no other goal.  He passed on his philosophy (an exaggeration) to our cricket team. These boys truly represent what was worst about his rule.  Would prefer to see the boys roll up their sleeves, forget about their holidays, get down to an agenda  of work and play cricket for all Australians.

Kerryl muzzled!

I have received word that our esteemed Driver Kerryl will be unable to participate on the blog as his employer's policy  expressly forbids blogging.  I have offered to post his emails but I think this has him a bit worried - clearly his work needs editing and I have offered my services!  I also enquired as to his home email address but it reads like a strange military code which I found indecipherable.  I guess what this really means is that Kerryl has gone missing when he was needed - again.

Australian Open

Does anyone think lil Lleyton will make it past Round 1 of the Open?  Will he be inside the top 50 by the end of the year?  Was Tony Roche only a good coach when he had a good player? Will Chris Guccione break anyone's serve other than his own?