Stars OK for round one, but questions remain for Pies, Tigers

Scott Pendlebury and Jack Riewoldt look like playing in round one but there are still questions surrounding the composition of both Collingwood and Richmond's teams for their respective season openers.

Riewoldt reported in Tigers' final pre-season match

Dual Coleman medallist Jack Riewoldt looks in little danger of miss Richmond's round one clash against Carlton despite being reported for rough conduct on Saturday.

Reid stars as Magpies hold off Tigers

Collingwood's win over Richmond should be made even more pleasing for Nathan Buckley because of the list of absentees. With Daniel Wells, Jamie Elliott, Jordan De Goey and Levi Greenwood already sidelined, the Pies team was made considerably weaker by dint of captain Scott Pendlebury's late withdrawal.

Hawks send message by sending Hodge to the VFL

Hawthorn's new-look leadership group felt they needed to make a stand, even if meant three-time premiership captain Luke Hodge took to Ikon Park on Friday afternoon wearing the No. 62 jumper of Box Hill.

Martin can take 'as long as he likes': Balme

Richmond football boss Neil Balme says the Tigers are happy to give Dustin Martin "as long as he likes" to contemplate his future as long as the gun midfielder's on-field performance doesn't dwindle.

De Goey injury adds to Collingwood's woes

Collingwood midfielder Jordan De Goey is dealing with injury just two weeks away from round one.

Hird maligners 'not good people': Zaharakis

David Zaharakis has bemoaned attacks directed at James Hird, suggesting that anyone who has chosen to "barrage" Hird in relation to the Essendon supplements saga in recent times is "just not a good person".

Time to end pre-season football at Etihad

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Thursday night should be one of the last pre-season games held at Etihad.

Ross to lead Saints on Saturday

Jobe Watson isn't Essendon captain anymore, but his cousin is set to be skipper of an AFL side on Saturday.