FanFooty Forum

Love your home and away jumpers!  8)
Your clash is certainly out there ;)

Pumas Look Towards Youth

With the drafting of players close to completion and already 38 players selected to represent the Pumas in the inaugural WXV season, a clear strategy appears to be emerging from the Sao Paulo camp. With an average age of just 21.89 years old amongst the 38 players and with 23 of them 22 or younger it appears youth is the order of the day in Brazil.

"Youth was something we rated very highly when considering the draft prospects," said club president, coach and everything else, CrowsFan. "We wanted to select a group of players that would be able to challenge for the WXV title for many years and not fade out early. Obviously we also wanted to be competitive in the first season as well, and even though the squad is very young I believe we will be very strong next year. We have a lot of experience in the centre of the park, with players like Ablett, Cross and Sewell, who are all outstanding talents."

With just 7 picks left, plus one in the rookie draft, CrowsFan has confirmed that he will stick with the youth policy in recruiting, with a lot of future talent left in the draft. It is only early days, but it does look like the Pumas are in it for the long haul in this competition.

In other news, the alternate/heritage strip for the Pumas has been released. A draft had been released earlier, but recently it has been tweaked to look much sharper, with a cleaner design.

Stay tuned for updates from the Puma camp in the future.

Drafting Over - Let the Season Begin

Today marked the end of an epic few months of drafting for the WXV inaugural competition. 46 players were chosen by each club, resulting in 828 players being selected in total, unfortunately a couple of players missed out on selection and will have to try and impress during the year in the AFL and hope to be selected next season.

The Pumas believe they have selected a great group of guys for the first season and they are all hard at work, or should I say training? The 46 man Puma herd consists of 40 senior players and 6 rookies who are hoping they can earn a spot on the senior list in the coming seasons. Although publicly saying that he is very happy with the group, CrowsFan has been overheard chatting with some of the senior players that he thinks they may be lacking just one more big name in the forward line. The removal of forward status for Duncan and de Boer being the cause of his concern. With whispers circulating that their could be a trade period before the season starts, rumour has it that CF will be on the lookout for another forward to fill his roster.

Whatever happens between now and the start of the season there is one thing clear. And that is that the season can't come soon enough!

Pumas Pounce in Trade Week

With the trade period having opened on Thursday the Pumas were quick to get their trades completing, finalising all four of their allotted trades in just 2 days! Joining the revolution in the town of Sao Paulo is veteran defender Sam Fisher, tough nut defender Beau Waters, exciting midfielder Rory Sloane, and deadly accurate kicker Jason Porplyzia. President, coach and everything else at the club, CrowsFan had this to say regarding the recent acquisitions.

"We at the Pumas are very pleased with the players we have brought in during the trading period. Sam Fisher is a class backman who adds some strength to what could have perhaps been a weak back line. Even though he is turning 30 this year we feel we will still get a few good years out of him, before he is replaced by our promising youngsters.

Sloane is a very exciting prospect, at just 21 years of age he certainly has his best years ahead of him, and we are sure he will represent the club with pride. He joins the long list of promising midfielders, including Dan Hannebery, Mitch Duncan and Mitch Wallis. We are sure that we wont have any trouble gaining points through the middle of the park for a long time!

The other two trades are more risky than Fisher and Sloane, but we feel they could pay off. As everyone knows Beau and Jason have had careers riddled with injuries so far, but when fit they are both terrific players and leaders on and off the field. We have a great set of doctors and physios who will be doing their best to keep these two on the park so that we can see the very best from them.

Obviously by bringing in these four players we have had to say goodbye to a couple of original Pumas. Leaving the country of Brazil for another challenge are midfielders Brad Sewell, Bernie Vince, Matt de Boer and defender Cheynee Stiller. We are very sad to see them go and wish them the best with their future endeavours. Overall we are very happy with the trades done in Puma land, strengthening both the back and forward lines, whilst also bringing in a future star.

Thank you very much for your time."

Well there you have it guys. How do you think the Pumas have fared in the transfer market? Did they get some bargains or get ripped off? Also how do you think the Pumas will go in the first season of the WXV? The Pumas look forward to hearing your comments :)

Vince, De Boer, Sewell and Stiller for Sloane, Porplyzia, Fisher and Waters


Reckon you've plugged a couple of wholes nicely without any significant loss, nicely done

Pumas Kick off Season in Samba Style

In the eyes of the supporters the season could not have started any better for the Pumas from Sao Paulo. Undefeated and two trophies already on display in the cabinet. The Pre Season Cup was the first competition to be contested and after winning the round robin matches against PNL Reindeers (98-88) and the Toronto Wolves (104-83) it was off to the final to face off against the in form Beijing Bears. The final proved to be a tightly contested yet high scoring game, where under the leadership of Gary Ablett jnr the Pumas were able to hold come from behind after trailing at 3 quarter time to win 137-134!

As you would expect the whole city of Sao Paulo celebrated win, and as a result the Pumas became the first team in WXV history to win a trophy. Although the city celebrated, head coach CrowsFan kept a lid on the victory and made sure his team would be solely focused on round 1 of the season proper, which incidentally was rivalry round where another trophy would be contested. This trophy, originally known as the South American Cup, but then renamed to be called the Rhythm Cup signifying the flair and style of the continent was to be fought out between the Pumas and their neighbourhood rivals the Buenos Aires Armadillos. Once again lead by Ablett the Pumas mauled their opposition and came out winners with the final score at 153-128!

So 4 matches played, 4 wins and 2 trophies. Things could not have started better for the Pumas, however the dream start could end this weekend when we face our toughest challenge yet. Hosting a much stronger Wolves team than we faced during the pre season, this will be the first time the locals will get to watch the Pumas live in the breathtaking new stadium Estádio do Pumas. CrowsFan has acknowledged this will be a tough test, but attains that no matter the result the future looks bright for the boys from Brazil!

Early confidence from the Pumas :)

Pride becomes before the fall though! And the Magpies have a lot of outs to come back in!

Nice writeup CF

Quote from: ossie85 on April 03, 2012, 06:35:42 PM

Early confidence from the Pumas :)

Pride becomes before the fall though! And the Magpies have a lot of outs to come back in!

Bit of early confidence yes, but as stated it could all come crashing down this weekend. I have also got a couple of players due to come back in to the side, some fringe, some best 15. Such as Roughy, Silvagni and Armstrong. Plus players like Motlop are showing vast improvement in their output from last year and he could be pushing for a spot in the 15 if some of the other players don't keep up the scoring.

A few injuries to key players though could see the season derailed just like that, so at the moment just taking it one week at a time (excuse the lame sporting cliché) ;)

Pumas Reserves Get Their Own Bite

After months of planning and scouting the Sao Paulo Pumas are proud to announce that the location of the Pumas reserve side has been agreed upon. In an aim to bridge out further in to the Sao Paulo state the team will not be located in Sao Paulo city like the senior side, but instead it will be situated in Campinas. Campinas is located north of Sao Paulo and is the third most populous city in the state of Sao Paulo and the fourteenth in all of Brazil. The infrastructure required to host a WXV side is already in place and there is a great deal of tourist attractions for fans to go and see, making it a perfect location for the reserves to play their games.

The mascot for the reserves will be the Oncilla, a small spotted cat. We felt this was appropriate as it can be seen as the small cat next to the larger Puma. So from this day forth the Sao Paulo reserves will be known as...

Campinas Oncillas

(http://upload.wikimedia.org/wikipedia/commons/thumb/8/8a/Tika2009Jan24.jpg/220px-Tika2009Jan24.jpg)

Mitch Wallis is in good form CF, he pushing for a spot in the XV?

Yeah he did play very well yesterday with Griffin and Boyd copping heavy tags. Will have to wait and see if he gets selected again since that was only his second game of the year, but with Ablett out chances are he could get a call up, although we have a few fighting for some spots in the team :)

If I play him maybe I will get him nominated for the rising star :D

Player   AFL12   WXV12   RXV12   AVEAFL   AVEWXVU   AVERES
Rory Sloane   7   7   0   111.00   111.00   NA
Daniel Cross   7   7   0   104.43   104.43   NA
David Zaharakis   7   7   0   97.86   97.86   NA
Sam Jacobs   7   7   0   96.00   96.00   NA
Beau Waters   7   7   0   94.29   94.29   NA
Hamish Hartlett   7   7   0   92.71   92.71   NA
Will Minson   7   7   0   92.29   92.29   NA
Brendan Whitecross   7   7   0   88.86   88.86   NA
Bachar Houli   7   6   1   90.29   86.17   115.00
Dan Hannebery   7   6   1   77.86   70.67   121.00
Sam Fisher   6   6   0   87.67   87.67   NA
Jarryd Roughead   6   5   1   100.67   103.00   89.00
Jarryd Blair   6   5   1   82.00   86.60   59.00
Jason Porplyzia   6   5   1   76.00   77.20   70.00
Gary Ablett jnr   5   5   0   144.60   144.60   NA
Zach Tuohy   7   4   3   60.14   60.25   60.00
Scott McMahon   4   3   1   77.50   70.67   98.00
Dylan Roberton   2   2   0   27.00   27.00   NA
Mitch Wallis   5   1   4   81.40   105.00   75.50
Jonathon Griffin   2   1   1   100.00   93.00   107.00
Steven Motlop   7   0   7   70.14   NA   70.14
Mitch Duncan   7   0   7   70.00   NA   70.00
Devon Smith   7   0   7   63.86   NA   63.86
Sebastian Tape   6   0   6   51.50   NA   51.50
Matthew Wright   4   0   4   77.75   NA   77.75
Ryan Harwood   4   0   4   49.00   NA   49.00
Andrew Raines   4   0   4   44.00   NA   44.00
Liam Sumner   2   0   2   58.00   NA   58.00
Peter Yagmoor   2   0   2   17.50   NA   17.50
Tony Armstrong   1   0   1   33.00   NA   33.00
Alex Silvagni   0   0   0   NA   NA   NA
Majak Daw   0   0   0   NA   NA   NA
Rory Thompson   0   0   0   NA   NA   NA
Hayden Jolly   0   0   0   NA   NA   NA
Ariel Steinberg   0   0   0   NA   NA   NA
Josh Growden   0   0   0   NA   NA   NA
Simon White   0   0   0   NA   NA   NA
Luke Lowden   0   0   0   NA   NA   NA
Dylan McNeil   0   0   0   NA   NA   NA
Mitchell Carter   0   0   0   NA   NA   NA
Alex Forster   0   0   0   NA   NA   NA
Jimmy Webster   0   0   0   NA   NA   NA
Brett O'Hanlon   0   0   0   NA   NA   NA
Brendan Lee   0   0   0   NA   NA   NA
Amos Frank   0   0   0   NA   NA   NA
Cameron Shenton   0   0   0   NA   NA   NA

Thanks for the stats ossie. Got my own set of stats so I keep track of my own players, but thanks for publishing them anyway :)

Spetsnaz Shoot Down Puma Dreams

The Moscow Spetsnaz have managed to do what no team before them had done. Defeatt the Sao Paulo Pumas! After winning the pre season trophy the Pumas had swept away the opposition and were sitting top of the table with 10 wins, no losses and had scored the most points in the process. The next to step up to the plate were the Moscow Spetsnaz. A team that had encountered mixed fortunes so far during the season with 5 wins and 5 losses to their name. The word on the streets of Sao Paulo were the Pumas were confident (perhaps overconfident) of extending their unbeaten run to 11 games, but this was not to be. The Spetsnaz arrived in Brazil and in true mercenary style departed quickly with 4 points in the bag, and leaving the bitter taste of defeat on the Puma players and fans. When the final siren went the scores read Pumas 20.19.139 vs Spetsnaz 21.17.143. Needless to say CrowsFan was not happy with the result and has issued the following statement.

"As coach of the Pumas I take responsibility for the loss we suffered here. Granted I knew we would not remain unbeaten forever, but I at least expected us to put in maximum amount of effort each week, which to be fair we did not do this week. Some of that blame can be focused on me as I did tinker with the lineup sent out to face the Spetsnaz, but that does not excuse the players who performed so terribly. Full credit to the Spetsnaz who came here with a strategy and executed that to the highest order and left with what they wanted, 4 points and another win in the bank.

Some good news has come out of this round however with injured defenders Sam Fisher and Scott McMahon making reappearances for the Oncillas, both should be fit enough for our next match, plus with the return of suspended Waters there may be some wholesale changes to our defensive rearguard. There will be some other changes too with the whole squad put on notice, and that includes the captain who played a shocker of a game last week.

We play our next three matches on the road. First visiting London, then heading east to play New Delhi and Beijing. A friendly warning to these three clubs. The Pumas were embarrassed by their loss to the Spetsnaz and plan on proving to the world again why we are the best team. Good luck stopping us!"

London, New Delhi and Beijing are all very dangerous on there day! Particularly Beijing, who I rate as a smokey


Great write up CF, perhaps this was the loss you had to have?

Yep all three very dangerous when on song. The key men identified to be shut down during the games are Stanton from London, Dal Santo and Rockliff from New Delhi, and Sidebottom and Swallow from Beijing. If we can restrict their influence it will go a long way to getting the results we want.

Obviously we had to lose at some point, so better now than in the finals. Gives us a wake up call, reminding me I need to select the best team each week and not take risks for the sake of it.

Pumas Claim the Minor Premiership

Although it was almost assured before the final round of the season, the 30 point win over the Pacific Islanders on the weekend clinched the inaugural minor premiership for the Sao Paulo Pumas. In what has almost been a perfect season the Pumas finished top scorers and top of the table with 16 wins and 1 pesky little loss. That loss came against the Moscow Spetsnaz back in round 11, but since then have won their next 6 games when some thought they were going to crumble.

In an recent chat to the head coach CrowsFan he revealed he was extremely proud of the playing group for such an achievement, but warned that the job was not done yet. "We have won the minor premiership and I couldn't be more proud of the guys, they've put in so much hard work all season and they truly deserve it. However there is still more work to do before we can go partying in the streets of Brazil. The finals are upon us and I've spoken to the mayor of Sao Paulo and we have come to an agreement that if the Pumas can win the WXV grand final then they will be given their own float in the 2013 Sao Paulo Carnival Parade. If that's not an incentive to win I don't know what is!"

The first match of the finals campaign for the Pumas is up against bitter rivals Buenos Aires Armadillos. Not only is a week off on the line for the winner, but also the Rhythm Cup, which was won by the Pumas back in round 1. For the people of Brazil they could accept not winning the WXV, but losing to the Armadillos is not on the agenda for them. "The lads are all fired up for this one as they know how much this means to the Brazilian people. For me I've got some selection dilemmas coming up this week and it's going to be tough to pick the 15 that can go play in this match as they all want to get out there. For the season we have had 28 players play for the Pumas and they've all performed when given the chance. At the moment we have 24 players available for the weekend, possibly 26 if O'Hanlon and Lee come through this afternoon, and so many of them are going to miss out, but they all understand if they do miss out it's for the wellness of the team. Plus the Oncillas are also through to the reserve finals so they will have a big job to do anyway, and I wish them all the best," CrowsFan concluded.

In other Pumas news the WXV awards ceremony is being held tonight and there are some Pumas who are hoping to feature in the awards. Pumas captain Gary Ablett is one of the favourites to take home the first ever Jim Stynes Medal as best player in the competition, whilst youngster Mitch Wallis is also right in contention to win the Rising Star. If these medals can be claimed it will be a great start to the weekend and can hopefully propel them to victory over the Armadillos. Good luck Pumas!!

Nice write up CF. Good luck to everyone at the Pumas for the upcoming finals series.

Never has there been so much pressure on a team to win the flag!

Quote from: c4v3m4n on August 10, 2012, 01:10:53 PM
Nice write up CF. Good luck to everyone at the Pumas for the upcoming finals series.

Thanks c4, much appreciated :)

Quote from: ossie85 on August 10, 2012, 02:10:15 PM

Never has there been so much pressure on a team to win the flag!

Amazing where this pressure came from considering at the start of the year the Suns were the outright favourites for the flag!! :o

Quote from: CrowsFan on August 10, 2012, 02:16:10 PM

Quote from: ossie85 on August 10, 2012, 02:10:15 PM

Never has there been so much pressure on a team to win the flag!

Amazing where this pressure came from considering at the start of the year the Suns were the outright favourites for the flag!! :o

No-one had expected the Swans to be at the top of the ladder at the start of the year...football can be a funny old world. :P

Pumas Burnt Badly By The Suns

The samba drums have stopped beating and the final siren has sounded. There is total silence in the Pumas locker room with everyone at a loss for words. All around the room the players and coaches alike are slumped against the walls or in their chairs, the look of shock, disappointment and anguish clear to see on everyone's faces.

That was the scene inside the Pumas locker room last night after their shock elimination from the WXV Finals Series due to the loss suffered at the hands of close rivals Mexico City Suns. Before the weekend the Pumas were on top of the world! They had breezed through the pre season cup claiming the first bit of silver wear on offer. They had flown through the home and away season, with just 1 loss and had finished as minor premiers. In the qualifying final they had destroyed their main rivals Buenos Aires without breaking a sweat and earned themselves a week off. Everyone was asking whether the Pumas could be stopped, and the evidence was suggesting the answer was no. But then it all came crashing down in one foul swoop!

Injuries to key players Sloane, Cross, Fisher, Griffin and the suspension of Hartlett meant the Pumas were heading in to the vital clash a skeleton of their best team, but these excuses will not be made for the awful effort that was served up. The Pumas were outclassed, outplayed and more importantly outscored by the Suns and from the first bounce were never in the contest. The defense were down on their usual output, the ever reliable forward line was nowhere to be seen, and even though the ruck combo of Jacobs and Minson did their best without Sloane and Cross roving below them they midfield was overrun.

When the final siren sounded the scoreline read 20.17.137 to 24.19.163. The 26 point loss as a result of the Pumas second lowest score for the year. Things had looked so bright for the Pumas this year, but the wheels fell off right at the end. The whole nation of Brazil was shocked when they heard the result, but they can take satisfaction in the knowledge that the Pumas are a young team and should improve next year. A full preseason of training should see them fit, firing and ready to go next year. Ready to claw their way to the top where they belong!

Great write-up CF :) Hope to see the Pumas fit and firing next year, going one better and losing to Seoul

Quote from: ossie85 on August 27, 2012, 06:36:06 PM

Great write-up CF :) Hope to see the Pumas fit and firing next year, going one better and losing to Seoul

Thanks ossie. Still can't believe you tipped me to be lowest scoring team last round! :o

Quote from: CrowsFan on August 27, 2012, 06:52:38 PM

Quote from: ossie85 on August 27, 2012, 06:36:06 PM

Great write-up CF :) Hope to see the Pumas fit and firing next year, going one better and losing to Seoul

Thanks ossie. Still can't believe you tipped me to be lowest scoring team last round! :o

Correctly! Was the Ablett flu that sold me. Hopefully I didn't but the jinx on you...

Quote from: ossie85 on August 27, 2012, 07:49:32 PM

Quote from: CrowsFan on August 27, 2012, 06:52:38 PM

Quote from: ossie85 on August 27, 2012, 06:36:06 PM

Great write-up CF :) Hope to see the Pumas fit and firing next year, going one better and losing to Seoul

Thanks ossie. Still can't believe you tipped me to be lowest scoring team last round! :o

Correctly! Was the Ablett flu that sold me. Hopefully I didn't but the jinx on you...

Haha yes correctly. Ablett still pumped out a respectable 124 though. It was my damn forwards that screwed me! Roughy 64, Blair 47, Whitecross 38 and Zaha 28 ::)

Pumas Awards Night

The giant awards ceremony planned to be held after touring through the streets of Sao Paulo showcasing the WXV Trophy was scrapped, mainly to do with the Pumas elimination from the competition (well all to do with it really), and instead a small ceremony was conducted for the players and their WAGS. There were two awards on offer for the night, namely the Gato Grande (Big Cat) for the Sao Paulo Pumas best and fairest and the Gatinho (Little Cat) for the best and fairest from the Campinas Oncillas.

Each award utilised a different voting system. I wont go in to too much detail, but for the Gato Grande each player in the match was awarded between 0 and 5 votes that correlated with what position they play in and the score they received for the match. If you want to work out what scores were required for each vote it is pretty simple to work out for yourself ;) For the Gatinho a simple 3-2-1 vote system was used in each match given to the 3 highest scoring players. So without further ado here are the votes :)

Round 1 - Rhythm Cup
Buenos Aires Armadillos 20.8.128 lost to 23.15.153 Sao Paulo Pumas
5 - N/A
4 - Ablett
3 - Hartlett, Zaharakis
2 - Jacobs
1 - Waters, Cross, Sloane, Blair, Whitecross

Reserves
3 - Motlop, 2 - Tuohy, 1 - Duncan

Round 2
Sao Paulo Pumas 23.23.161 defeated 22.17.149 Toronto Wolves
5 - Whitecross
4 - Fisher, Ablett
3 - N/A
2 - N/A
1 - Waters, Tuohy, Cross, Sloane, Jacobs, Zaharakis, Blair, Porplyzia

Reserves
3 - Houli, 2 - Roughead, 1 - Smith

Round 3
Sao Paulo Pumas 26.16.166 defeated 21.13.139 Berlin Brewers
5 - Fisher, Ablett
4 - Houli, Roughead
3 - N/A
2 - Jacobs
1 - Hartlett, Minson, Whitecross

Reserves
3 - Hannebery, 2 - Duncan, 1 - Tape

Round 4
Sao Paulo Pumas 22.14.146 defeated 21.11.141 Seoul Magpies
5 - N/A
4 - N/A
3 - Waters, Ablett, Sloane
2 - Minson
1 - Cross, Porplyzia

Reserves
3 - Wallis, 2 - McMahon, 1 - Wright

Round 5
Cairo Sands 18.16.124 lost to 24.14.158 Sao Paulo Pumas
5 - Minson
4 - Jacobs
3 - Houli, Waters, Zaharakis
2 - Sloane, Hannebery
1 - Fisher, Cross, Wallis, Roughead

Reserves
3 - Griffin, 2 - Wright, 1 - Motlop

Round 6
Sao Paulo Pumas 23.17.155 defeated 18.14.122 Tokyo Samurai
5 - Waters
4 - Roughead
3 - Sloane, Zaharakis
2 - Minson
1 - Cross, Hartlett, Griffin

Reserves
3 - Duncan, 2 - Smith, 1 - Wright

Round 7
Paris Nice Lyon Reindeers 17.15.117 lost to 22.12.144 Sao Paulo Pumas
5 - Zaharakis
4 - N/A
3 - Ablett
2 - Waters, Sloane, Whitecross
1 - Jacobs, Roughead

Reserves
3 - Wallis, 2 - Duncan, 1 - Smith

Round 8
Sao Paulo Pumas 23.16.154 defeated 21.15.141 Mexico City Suns
5 - Waters, Ablett
4 - N/A
3 - Zaharakis
2 - Cross, Jacobs
1 - Sloane, Wallis, Minson, Roughead

Reserves
3 - Hannebery, 2 - Porplyzia, 1 - Wright

Round 9
Cape Town Cobras 22.12.144 lost to 22.13.145 Sao Paulo Pumas
5 - Waters
4 - N/A
3 - N/A
2 - Minson, Roughead
1 - Ablett, Wallis, Zaharakis

Reserves
3 - Blair, 2 - Motlop, 1 - Wright

Round 10
Wellington Warriors 21.13.139 lost to 26.14.170 Sao Paulo Pumas
5 - Ablett, Hartlett, Sloane
4 - Hannebery
3 - Wright
2 - Minson
1 - Waters, Zaharakis

Reserves
3 - Whitecross, 2 - Jacobs, 1 - Raines

Round 11
Sao Paulo Pumas 20.19.139 lost to 21.17.143 Moscow Spetsnaz
5 - Jacobs, Blair
4 - N/A
3 - N/A
2 - N/A
1 - Wallis, Roughead, Whitecross

Reserves
3 - Griffin, 2 - Duncan, 2 - Cross

Round 12
London Royals 20.10.130 lost to 20.12.132 Sao Paulo Pumas
5 - N/A
4 - N/A
3 - Roughead, Blair
2 - N/A
1 - Fisher, Waters, Griffin

Reserves
3 - Harwood, 2 - Porplyzia, 1 - Jacobs

Round 13
New Delhi Tigers    19.14.128 lost to 25.12.162 Sao Paulo Pumas
5 - Houli, Jacobs
4 - Roughead
3 - Griffin, Blair
2 - Sloane, Whitecross
1 - Fisher, McMahon, Ablett, Wright

Reserves
3 - Minson, 2 - Hannebery, 1 - Smith

Round 14
Beijing Bears 20.12.132 lost to 22.12.144 Sao Paulo Pumas
5 - Jacobs
4 - N/A
3 - Ablett, Roughead, Whitecross
2 - Blair, Wright
1 - Houli, Griffin

Reserves
3 - Porplyzia, 2 - Hannebery, 1 - Duncan

Round 15
Sao Paulo Pumas 26.14.170 defeated 16.15.111 Dublin Destroyers
5 - Ablett
4 - Sloane
3 - Minson, Wright
2 - Fisher, Griffin
1 - Waters, Cross, Jacobs, Roughead

Reserves
3 - Duncan, 2 - Porplyzia, 1 - McMahon

Round 16
New York Eagles    19.7.121 lost to 25.14.164 Sao Paulo Pumas
5 - Waters, Ablett, Minson
4 - N/A
3 - N/A
2 - Fisher, Roughead, Porplyzia
1 - Sloane, Wright

Reserves
3 - Whitecross, 2 - Smith, 1 - Duncan

Round 17
Sao Paulo Pumas 24.13.157 defeated 19.13.127 Pacific Islanders
5 - Ablett
4 - N/A
3 - Fisher, Waters, Hartlett, Roughead
2 - Houli, Jacobs
1 - Sloane, Whitecross

Reserves
3 - Hannebery, 2 - Duncan, 1 - Griffin

Qualifying Final + Rhythm Cup
Sao Paulo Pumas 23.19.157 defeated 17.15.117 Buenos Aires Armadillos
5 - Wright
4 - McMahon
3 - Ablett
2 - Houli, Smith
1 - Fisher, Wallis, Jacobs, Griffin, Blair

Reserves
3 - Duncan, 2 - Harwood, 1 - Tuohy

Semi Final
Reserves
3 - Raines, 2 - Lee, 1 - Duncan

Preliminary Final
Sao Paulo Pumas 20.17.137 lost to 24.19.163 Mexico City Suns
5 - N/A
4 - N/A
3 - Houli, Minson, Wright
2 - Ablett, Jacobs
1 - Waters, Hannebery, Duncan

That concludes the voting, and now to announce the winners!!

The Gatinho will be presented first. In 3rd place with a total of 9 votes, the vice captain of the 2012 Reserve All-Worlds Team... Jason Porplyzia!! In 2nd place with 13 votes, a player constantly going between the two clubs... Dan Hannebery!! Which means the winner and first ever recipient of the Gatinho, with a massive total of 21 votes....

(http://resources3.news.com.au/images/2011/12/29/1226232/394495-mitch-duncan.jpg)
Mitch Duncan

Congratulations Mitch on a superb season for the Oncillas. Hopefully bigger and better things await you in 2013 and more opportunities arise to play for the Pumas :)

Now we move on to the bigger fish, or more specifically the bigger cat ;) The top 3 of the Gato Grande are as follows. In 3rd place with an impressive total of 33 votes for a guy who struggles in the sun with his pasty skin and red hair... Sam Jacobs!! In 2nd place with 37 votes one of the hardest men on the footy field, and will always put his body on the line to help out a team mate... Beau Waters!! But way out in front with a massive 54 votes, and the inaugural winner of the Gato Grande, everyone's favourite little master...

(http://resources0.news.com.au/images/2011/05/23/1226061/259160-gary-ablett.gif)
Gary Ablett

A superb player and captain all season, Ablett is a deserving winner of this award.

Well that's it folks. To check out how everyone polled in each match check the images below :)
Gato Grande Voting
(http://i773.photobucket.com/albums/yy19/rocklobster1/PumaVotes.png)

Gatinho Voting
(http://i773.photobucket.com/albums/yy19/rocklobster1/OncillaVotes.png)

Loved the write-up CF :)

Interesting B&F system, I think it works well! Though 6th to Sloane is a surprise to me.

Thanks Ossie. The scoring system used was one that gives the positions other than mids a better chance at getting votes since they have to score less points to get them. I think Sloane in 6th was a fair placing, because all players above certainly deserved to be there. Waters had a superb season in defended, Roughy dominated up forward and Jacobs and Minson were awesome in the ruck all year. I'm sure he'll finish higher next season though :)

It's been a busy first week of the trade period for the Pumas. After what was a disappointing end to the campaign the Pumas have wasted no time in changing up the squad in an attempt to freshen it up for a charge at the premiership next season. Four players have already left the club, with 5 returning in their place, and questions must be asked whether the Pumas have finished their trading or will there be more to come?

The first trade completed saw our oldest player Sam Fisher make the trek north to Toronto, with promising midfielder Taylor Adams heading to the warmer climes of Brazil. Picks were also exchanged in this deal with the Pumas gaining pick 32 in exchange for pick 53.

The second trade saw the second oldest player on the playing list Daniel Cross move to the busy city of New Delhi. Moving to Sao Paulo are two youngsters with bags of potential in Matthew Buntine and Jared Polec, both of whom were taken at pick 5 in the '11 and '10 national drafts respectively.

Trade three involved young forward Jarryd Blair head to the pacific with experienced forward Andrew Walker becoming a Puma. We also swapped pick 71 for 26.

Pick 26 didn't last long however with it being used in the fourth trade which saw another young forward, this time Steven Motlop move to Tokyo along with picks 26 and 35. Jack Gunston made the move to Brazil in return.

Stay tuned for any more trade news as it happens :)

The Pumas have revealed their new redesigned logo ahead of the upcoming 2013 season  8)

Thought this could be more appropriate:

(http://blogs.orlandosentinel.com/sports_bianchi/files/2011/07/choking-method1.jpg)

j/k!

Think the logo looks great though!

Ossie!  ;D

For some the international draft is just warming up, but for the Pumas it is already over. The Pumas only had two picks during the draft (picks 16 and 31) and so have finished their drafting early. With the two picks the Pumas picked up exciting young midfielder Jonathan O'Rourke with pick 16 and tall forward Mason Wood with pick 31. Everyone at the Pumas is very excited by the potential both these players have and hope they have a long career at the club. A season playing for the Oncillas looks likely for both players, but if they work hard during preseason there is no reason why they couldn't get some games for the Pumas in 2013 :)

Definately got the steal of the draft with o rourke.

I certainly wasn't complaining when he slipped to 16! :D

Could understand slipping in Euros but being renowned for being classy should equal SC points

If you look at the first post in this thread you will see a picture of each member of the Puma squad. If you click on this picture you will be directed to their profile page so you can get all the info you want about them :)

Quote from: CrowsFan on December 22, 2012, 01:46:25 AM
If you look at the first post in this thread you will see a picture of each member of the Puma squad. If you click on this picture you will be directed to their profile page so you can get all the info you want about them :)

Wow thats awesome! Must have put a lot of time in that....

Just quoted the post to see how you did it lol, I've always wanted to know because I wanna do something similar for the Brewers :o

Thanks purple :)
Certainly takes a long time, but makes the thread look nicer :) Just annoying that the Saints and Roos didn't have a picture of Roberton and Wood yet :(

Did the saints pick up Roberton?  ???

Yeah as a delisted free agent I think

Yeah they did maca, as FS Said as a free agent. I reckon he should do well there :)

I think he will as well! I'd make a play to get him to Mexico but I don't think it would be worth it ;)

Quote from: Maca24 on December 23, 2012, 03:20:40 PM
I think he will as well! I'd make a play to get him to Mexico but I don't think it would be worth it ;)

Going from last years averages he is my 9th best scoring defender, but I really think he will improve a lot this year at a new club so not wanting to trade him :)

Looks great!

Thanks os :)

is it just my browser or does only 3 pictures come up?

seems fine to me!

Quote from: DazBurg on December 24, 2012, 08:35:34 PM
is it just my browser or does only 3 pictures come up?

Think it might just be your browser daz (or a slow internet connection), all 41 pictures come up for me. Do all the names come up?

Simon Showing the White Stuff

When the AFL was disbanded and the WXV announced Simon White was worried that he wouldn't get picked up by a club. After all at the time he was a 23 year old defender who had only managed to play 12 games for the Blues in the AFL, not one of the best prospects going around. It was a relief then when White heard his name called out by the Pumas with their 34th pick of the draft (610th overall). Many believed that White had just been picked up to add some depth to the team and wouldn't play many games at all for the Pumas.

There was little surprise when these pundits turned out to be correct. White struggled with injury during the early stages of the season and only managed to break in to the Pumas reserve team, the Oncillas, during the back end of the season, playing the final reserve game of the home and away season then playing the first 2 finals for the Oncillas. After just 3 games for the Oncillas White was called up to the big time, making his debut in the preliminary final for the Pumas against the Suns. Sadly they lost this game so White could not complete the fairy tale and line up in the grand final!

After getting that taste of senior football it has appeared that White wants more of it. He has hit preseason training with intensity and is one of the hardest training of the group so far. Gavin Brown, one of the many coaches at the Pumas had this to say about White earlier this week, "He's flying! "For mine, he's the one who's really stood out. He looks really strong, he's quick, his skills are good, and he's doing nearly every session. He's a good size, a real competitor. If he stays injury-free, he'll be a terrific acquisition to the side." These statements have put the other defenders on notice that White is willing to fight for a spot in the starting XV and if they don't work as hard they will be replaced. Could 2013 be the season we see the best of Simon White?

With the completion of the rookie draft the Pumas squad list has been updated. Check the first two posts to see the team in full, plus what changes have occurred during the post season break :)

Terrible news today after it was confirmed new recruit Matt Buntine will be out for around 2 months after puncturing his lung during a practice match yesterday. The Pumas wish him all the best in his recovery and hope to see him back on the park soon...

Buntine would have been struggling for your best XV I think, but never good when a player goes down...

Yeah not quite there yet, but as a top draft pick it's sad to see his development stunted by injuries...

A Solid Start Sees the Pumas Purring

Two games in to the 2013 season and it is clear to everyone the Pumas are looking to atone for a terrible finals performance last year. After leading for the entire year it was a shock to all when the Pumas did not even make the grand final, but for the players it was heartbreak! The players were distraught with what was their worst performance of an almost perfect season and so have been putting in the extra yards at training over the summer, the players deciding that 2013 would be the season of redemption!

And so round 1 came around and it was plain to see the determination in the eyes of every Puma player who ran out on to the ground that night. Delivering what can only be described as their best match so far they made modest work of the PNL Reindeers defeating them 173 to 137. New recruits to the club Andrew Walker and Stephen Hill mesmerised the crowd showing why the Pumas worked hard to bring to the club, whilst typical inspired performances from captain Ablett, big Will Minson and defensive duo Waters and Hartlett meant that the Pumas opened the season in style!

One week later and the Pumas were back at it, playing another home game in São Paulo, this time hosting the Beijing Bears. Not quite as ferocious at the ball compared to the opening week, the game was a little more subdued, but the Pumas again walked away to 45 point win 142 to 97 without even leaving 3rd gear. Minson again was admirable, and the midfield solid, but the forward line was disappointing, but still managed to kick a winning score against a below par Bears brigade.

So two rounds in and Pumas are back in familiar territory, sitting atop the table with a mighty percentage of 134! A position they're not going to give up without a fight. Some things change, but some things stay the same, and in this case the Pumas sitting top and undefeated is all to familiar to all involved. The Pumas are back doing what they do best... winning!

Cheers for that CF :) Review points coming for both rounds!

Brewers might give you some fight at this rate.....

Yeah playing pretty poorly at the moment. Just hoping this means I will play well come end of season instead...

Pumas Pushed But Purrfect Start Continues

The opening two rounds of the season had been relatively straight forward for the Pumas, barely leaving 3rd gear the team came away with two easy wins, both at home. The third round saw the Pumas travel for the first time this season, flying to Germany to take on the Berlin Brewers in what most considered to be another easy win against a middle of the round side. What transpired however was not what anyone predicted.

The Brewers came out fighting much to the shock of the Pumas and it took them a little time to get in to the match, by which time the Brewers had got out to an early lead. But the Pumas showed the fighting spirit that was missing during last years finals series and started to rally. The defense began to work together and stifle to Brewer forwards who had earlier run rampant and the midfield started to get on top. In the end it was an incredible match, but the Pumas came out on top winning 160 to 154.

The game winners for the Pumas were clearly the defense, even without Beau Waters who withdrew just before the bounce, the defense held strong. Hartlett and Houli were solid as usual, whilst McMahon continued his good start to the season. The best news however was Dylan Roberton who is looking far more confident this year than he was last year when he was in and out of the side. Roberton is playing amazingly at the moment and everyone in Brazil hopes he can continue this form. Elsewhere plaudits were given to Masten and Andrew Walker who are both looking to be excellent recruits at this early stage of the season. Walker especially is standing strong, whilst his fellow forwards seem to be struggling at times. Gary Ablett and Rory Sloane are yet to hit top gear, but when they do the rest of the competition should worry.

Next week we travel to Moscox to take on the Spetsnaz. As every Puma fan knows Moscow is the only team not to taste defeat at the hands of the Pumas, so we will be going all out to get some redemtion! Go Pumas!

Great review CF :)

Will not forget this loss when we meet again...  :-X

Mid-Season Trade Analysis

With eight rounds played and nine to go in the home and away season we are at the halfway point of the season. So what better time to analyse the trades the Pumas made before the season started than right now. So without further ado let's get started...

Trade 1 - With Toronto Wolves
Gave: Sam Fisher and Pick 53
Received: Taylor Adams and Pick 32 (on traded to New York)

Stats
Taylor Adams (M)
Games for Pumas: 1, 79.00 avg
Games for Jaguars: 3, 73.33 avg

Sam Fisher (D)
Games: 7, 82.00 avg

Summary
Adams was injured during his first match of the season for the Jaguars and missed the next couple of rounds, but has come back and played the last 3 (including one for the Pumas) and has averaged an impressive 97! Still just 19 years old this kid is going to be a star of the future. Fisher has been solid, but with the impressive form of the Puma defense he would be playing for the Jaguars anyway. So putting this down as a win for the Pumas.


Trade 2 - With New Delhi Tigers
Gave: Daniel Cross
Received: Matt Buntine and Jared Polec

Stats
Matt Buntine (D)
Games: Nil
Jared Polec (M)
Games for Pumas: Nil
Games for Jaguars: 1, 32.00 avg

Daniel Cross (M)
Games: 8, 86.50 avg

Summary
Sadly youngsters Buntine and Polec have been injured for the majority of the season and so have only managed the one game between them. Cross on the other hand has played all games this season, but has been down on his output from last season. For current form this looks to be a poor trade for the Pumas, but this trade was always made with the future in mind. Buntine and Polec when fit and injury free should be terrific players for the Pumas for years to come.


Trade 3 - With Pacific Islanders
Gave: Jarryd Blair and Pick 71
Received: Andrew Walker and Pick 26 (on traded to Tokyo)

Stats
Andrew Walker (F/M)
Games for Pumas: 8, 111.38 avg

Jarryd Blair (F/M)
Games: 8, 83.63 avg

Summary
Walker has been a revelation for the Pumas this year, and is looking like being one of the trades of the season. Averaging 111 with 5 of his 8 scores over 100 he has been a rock up forward whilst some others are floundering. Blair has been solid, but has not hit the heights of Walker. Receiving an earlier pick was just a sweetener with this trade. Massive win for Pumas here.


Trade 4 - With Tokyo Samurai
Gave: Steven Motlop and Picks 26 and 35
Received: Jack Gunston

Stats
Jack Gunston (F)
Games for Pumas: 3, 77.67 avg
Games for Jaguars: 4, 70.25 avg

Steven Motlop (F)
Games: 8, 80.00 avg

Summary
Gunston had a slow start to the season, but in the past month has averaged an impressive 97.5 from his four games (2 each for Pumas and Jaguars). This form shows why the Pumas were chasing him so much and willing to give up two draft picks along with another young forward to bring him in. Motlop has also been impressive at his new club averaging 80. At the moment this trade looks to be an even split in my mind, perhaps slightly towards Tokyo, but this trade will be decided on in the future as they are both young future stars.


Trade 5 - With Moscow Spetsnaz
Gave: Josh Growden
Received: Pick 42 (on traded to Cairo)

Stats
Josh Growden (F/M)
Games: Nil

Summary
Growden has again played no games this year and doesn't look like he will be playing any time soon. Pick 42 was traded on to Cairo and helped bring Chris Masten to the club, so looks like this is a win for the Pumas.


Trade 6 - With Cario Sands
Gave: Jon Griffin and Pick 42
Received: Chris Masten

Stats
Chris Masten (M)
Games for Pumas: 7, 100.57 avg

Jon Griffin (R)
Games: 7, 90.14 avg

Summary
Masten has cemented his spot in the Pumas XV from the very start of the season. He's been very impressive scoring 5 centuries with a high of 146 and a low of 82. Griffin started off the season well, but unfortunately for him did his ACL in round 7 and is out for the season. For this reason it looks like Pumas win this trade as well.


Trade 7 - With London Royals
Gave: Dan Hannebery, Zach Tuohy and Pick 89
Received: Stephen Hill and Brad Sheppard

Stats
Stephen Hill (M)
Games for Pumas: 3, 85.00 avg
Games for Jaguars: 2, 74.00 avg
Brad Sheppard (M)
Games for Pumas: Nil
Games for Jaguars: 4, 53.25 avg

Dan Hannebery (M)
Games: 8, 102.75 avg
Zach Tuohy (D)
Games: 8, 64.13 avg

Summary
Both Hill and Sheppard have been rather underwhelming since moving to the Pumas and both have had issues with injuries too. On the other hand Hanners has shined since moving on and is in career best form, Tuohy is also performing solidly down back. Sadly this is a clear loss to the Pumas at the current time.


Trade 8 - With Wellington Warriors
Gave: Rory Thompson
Received: P31 (selected Mason Wood)

Stats
Mason Wood (F)
Games: Nil

Rory Thompson (D)
Games: 8, 72.63 avg

Thompson has had an impressive season after getting over the injuries he had at the Pumas, but if he had remained at the Pumas he would still just be sitting in the reserves and not contributing, so better for him that he has been traded. Wood hasn't made an appearance yet, but signs are promising that he will be a solid contributor in years to come. Considering Thompson wouldn't have made an appearance for the Pumas this season, I will call this trade a tie.


Trade 9 - With New York Revolution
Gave: Pick 32 (New York selected Marco Paparone)
Received: Shane Kersten

Stats
Shane Kersten (F)
Games: Nil

Marco Paparone (F/M)
Games: 3, 43.67 avg

Summary
Kersten hasn't made an appearance yet this year, but as a forward prospect he has been very impressive during training and will most likely be making his debut for the Jaguars in the coming weeks. New York used pick 32 to select fellow forward Marco Paparone who has already made 3 appearances. With both forwards so young it's impossible to say who has won this trade at this stage in time, so it's another trade that will be decided in the coming years.


So there you have it folks, all 9 trades that the Pumas made have been analysed. Apart from the trade with London the Pumas have come up trumps on the majority of the trades. A successful trading period in my opinion :)

Wow, what a great read CF! IMO, you didn't trade amazingly, but far from bad and there is no doubt that you came out of it a winner :) Better than me anyway  :-\

If it wasn't for damn Walker and Masten, I may have beaten you a few weeks back lol

Yeah as you can see from my trades I was trading more for the future rather than bringing in current guns. I was banking on the fact my strongest XV is good enough to go up against the best, even though both the Armadillos and Suns brought in my guns for the present.

Only trade I really regret is the DanHan one. I really wanted Sheppard since he has so much potential, and was thinking he would keep his defense status, or gain forward, never did I see him being a mid this year, but that's the breaks you get sometimes I guess ::)

Wouldn't be bad to have Cross at the moment, because I'm struggling to find someone who will score consistently at spot XV, but once Buntine and Polec are back from their injuries I think it will be a win for me...

Halfway Season Analysis

Been a little slow on the round updates due to uni work, but found some time to get them done now so here we go :)

Round 4
Moscow Spetsnaz (20.17.137) lost to Sao Paulo Pumas (24.13.157)

The Pumas traveled to Moscow with revenge on their mind. As all loyal Puma fans knew Moscow was the only team that Sao Paulo had never defeated so they were quite apprehensive with the match. The Pumas were aggressive from the outset and never let up the pressure eventually finishing off 20 point winners, which meant that they became the first club in WXV history to defeat every other WXV club in the league.

The Pumas were lead superbly be Ablett as usual, as well as Hartlett continuing his great start to the season. But it was Sloane how was the man of the match, dominating the midfield from the get go and pumping the ball forward at any opportunity. In other news Roughead showed his first signs of recapturing his form from last year with a dominant display up forward, helped again by Andrew Walker.

Another great win by the Pumas!


Round 5
Sao Paulo Pumas (25.14.164) defeated Buenos Aires Armadillos (22.23.155)

Round 5 was the Rivalry Round, which meant that the Pumas would be taking on the Armadillo's for the third time. All fans were hoping for a similar result from the first two where the Pumas took home the Rhythm Cup. Gladly that was exactly what happened in what was easily the match of the round.

The Armadillos had looked dangerous in the previous rounds, but the Pumas stepped up when it mattered most and pulled out a big score of 164 to defeat the Armadillos by 9. Gary Ablett took home the O'Brien Medal for best afield for the second time after winning it in the first Rhythm Cup last year. Other stand out performers were Hartlett (again), Zaharakis and Walker, but perhaps the biggest performance was by Devon Smith. Smith was playing his first game of the season and showed he was determined to keep his spot by dominating up forward adding pace and flair, a truly outstanding display.

Three Rhythm Cups, three wins, can't ask for more than that!


Round 6
Tokyo Samurai (20.18.138) lost to Sao Paulo Pumas (21.21.147)

Off to Japan this round to take on the Samurai, but the same accustomed result for the Puma faithful. Despite a very disappointing display from the defense, with only late inclusion Dylan Roberton showing any desire to play well for the team. But the midfield stood up as usual, and Walker and Roughy performed admirably up forward. There's not much to write about for the moment as everything is going very smoothly over at Puma headquarters, 6 wins from 6 starts :)


Round 7
Sao Paulo Pumas (20.23.143) lost to Cape Town Cobras (22.12.144)

Heartbreak for the Pumas! A one point loss to the Cobras has seen the Pumas simultaneously lose their first game of the season and lose top spot on the ladder. After the last few rounds it was a disappointing effort by the Pumas with fatigue starting to show on some of the players. Hartlett was extremely disappointing after a great start to the season, as were Smith (after a superb game last round), Porplyzia and Duncan. Ablett, Roughy and Minson did their best to try and keep the Pumas in it, but sadly it was not enough to get the victory. A tight loss, and one which the Pumas will hopefully learn from. Taylor Adams made his debut for the club after being traded in during the off season and performed well. It looks like has a bright future ahead of him!


Round 8
Sao Paulo Pumas (25.17.167) defeated New York Revolution (17.14.116)

What a turn around by the Pumas! After suffering their first loss last week they showed that they had learned from the experience and worked hard in all areas of the ground to defeat the Revolution by a massive 51 points!!

The defense was solid with Houli and Roberton dominating, whilst Waters did well returning from injury and Hartlett continued to work hard to turn his form around. The midfield combination worked tirelessly, however Duncan put in his second poor match in a row and so needs to find some form back in the reserves. The ruck duo of Minson and Jacobs that worked so well last year again dominated proceedings, and the forward line could not stop scoring, Roughy, Walker and Gunston playing great!


Round 9
Seoul Magpies (19.15.129) lost to Sao Paulo Pumas (22.15.147)

Another strong display by the Pumas in this 18 point win over the Magpies. Apart from Ablett being the standout the weren't too many other exceptional displays, it was more of a team effort with everyone contributing towards the win. This is becoming the stock standard win for the Pumas and becoming quite tedious to write about haha :P

9 games in to the season the Pumas are sitting 2nd on the ladder with 8 wins and 1 loss. A strong start to the season, which should see us in good stead for the finals series. The only concern at the moment is trying to find who will fill the 4th forward spot, with no-one consistently scoring well. Luckily Whitecross looks to be just a couple of weeks away from returning from his ACL injury, which is exciting news for all Puma fans!

Gread read CF!

What's the goal for Sao Paulo for the rest of the season?

Just to make the top 4 and have an assault on the flag? Or to finish top 2, or top of the ladder?

Cheers os, I felt it wasn't as good as my usual updates since I'm so busy at the moment, but just had to get some done before I fall way behind!

Goal is obviously to win the whole thing, the disappointment from last season from not even making the GF after being the best team for the whole year sucked, so hopefully can go further this year. In terms of improvement last year the Pumas played 19 matches and averaged 153.37 points per round, this season we have played 9 and are averaging 155.56, with just 2 scores lower than 147, so there is more consistency there too. This is all without Whitecross who averaged 84.7 last season, so will be great to have him back fit by the time finals comes around.

Looking at my last 8 games I play London (6th), Wellington (15th), Cairo (11th), Toronto (8th), Pacific (17th), New Delhi (14th), Dublin (12th) and finally Mexico (1st). Honestly I see myself winning most of them fairly easily (Toronto could be tricky), and then of course the big game against Mexico. If I can win all those games before the Mexico clash then I should be in with a shot of taking out the minor premiership again, especially since Mexico still has to play Moscow (always tricky) and the Armadillos (battle of the oldies).

But honestly I don't really mind where I finish in the table, because no-one remembers that. I want to win the league! If injuries stay away then I don't see why that can't happen either :)

Oh and in other news along with the Gato Grande and Gatinho awards I will be introducing 2 new awards this year. One for the best newcomer to the team (currently being fought out between Walker and Masten), and the other for the most improved player (front runner at the moment being Dylan Roberton who managed 4 games for the Pumas at an average of 41.5 in 2012, but has already played 8 at an average of 90.25 this season!)

Round 10 - Questions Asked and Questions Answered

Sao Paulo Pumas (25.12.162) defeated London Royals (19.13.127)

Best
Sao Paulo: A Walker, R Sloane, W Minson, G Ablett jnr, Jarryd Roughead, D Zaharakis
London: B Stanton, J McVeigh, A Mackie

Before the round began questions were being asked over the form of the Pumas. Performing well, although suffering a defeat a few weeks ago, the higher ups of the WXV administration were asking questions over whether the Pumas were in dominant form and whether they could hold on to their top two placing. Well that was clearly answered in dominant fashion posting a 35 point victory over the hapless Royals.

Two changes were made to the Puma squad in the lead up to this match after their 18 point win over the Magpies last week. Firstly Jason Porplyzia replaced the injured Jack Gunston up forward. For Porplyzia it was more a case of last forward standing rather than being rewarded for solid form, but he came in none-the-less. The second change was replacing the inconsistent Sam Jacobs with exciting mid prospect Kyle Martin, who was making his debut for the Pumas without even playing for the Jaguars. He had impressed CrowsFan so much in training with his hard work that he felt warranted to stick him right in the deep end. This turned out to be an inspired choice with Martin performing exceptionally. Other standout performers were the usual cast of Walker, Minson and Ablett, with Sloane starting to rediscover some of his top form. Although the team performed well, the defense was a little behind the ball this week. Roberotn who had been very consistent so far had his worst game of the season, and McMahon was disappointing too, and could be in trouble of losing his spot with some great performances in the reserves.


Reserves
Rio de Janeiro Jaguars (22.16.148) lost to Imperial Princes (27.13.175)

Best
Rio de Janeiro: M Duncan, S White, S Hill, S Jacobs, R Harwood, M Wallis
Imperial: R Laird, Z Tuohy, D Pearce, D Rampe, J Winderlich

Despite going down in this high scoring match there were some great performances by the players. Duncan is pushing for a recall after his BOG display, whilst White and Harwood are working hard to get a spot in the starting defense, and with McMahon and Roberton misfiring there could be a spot opening up. Jacobs responded well to being dropped by performing admirably and Stephen Hill impressed during his first game back from injury.

Some great performances all round from the boys from Brazil, and everyone is looking forward to the clash next week against the struggling Wellington Warriors.

Quote from: CrowsFan on June 04, 2013, 11:35:14 AM
Performing well, although suffering a defeat a few weeks ago, the higher ups of the WXV administration were asking questions over whether the Pumas were in dominant form and whether they could hold on to their top two placing.

Glad I could inspire :P

Quote from: ossie85 on June 04, 2013, 12:57:25 PM

Quote from: CrowsFan on June 04, 2013, 11:35:14 AM
Performing well, although suffering a defeat a few weeks ago, the higher ups of the WXV administration were asking questions over whether the Pumas were in dominant form and whether they could hold on to their top two placing.

Glad I could inspire :P

We needed a kick from someone, so glad it came from the top :)

Round 11 - Warriors Surrender as Pumas Pounce on First Place

Sao Paulo Pumas (23.23.161) defeated Wellington Warriors (18.9.117)

Best
Sao Paulo: G Ablett jnr, A Walker, B Houli, J Gunston
Wellington: M Murphy, S Dempster, N Foley

After last round 35 point win over the Royals it was hard to see how it could get any better for the Pumas. Round 11 showed it could get better however after posting a 44 point win over the hapless Wellington Warriors, which thrust the Pumas back to the summit of the ladder after Mexico City went down to Moscow. Just the one change was made this round with Jack Gunston returning to the lineup after overcoming his injury, which saw Jason Porplyzia back out of the side. It's been a disappointing year for Porps so far and he needs to find some form fast if he wants to play some part in the upcoming finals series.

Regarding the game itself there was not much to fault in terms of performance from a rampant Puma side. Hartlett and Houli were impressive down back, the midfield solid without being spectacular, lead as usual by Gary Ablett, whilst the forward line is starting to show that deadly form from last year with solid performances by all four. However there were a few disappointments. Roberton and McMahon backed up their poor performances from round 10 with equally disappointing performances again, and with the imminent return of Beau Waters from injury and the impressive form of Ryan Harwood in the reserves their spots in the team could be under threat for the time being. Kyle Martin backed up him impressive debut with a solid return, but youngster Taylor Adams had an ordinary game by his standards. Inconsistency is to be expected from someone who is still only 19 though, however a brief spell from the senior side may be needed to revitalise him for the finals.

Overall another spectacular performance by the Pumas. A bye round this week as representative footy is played, before returning the following week for a home match against dark horses Cairo Sands. Speaking of the representative football a special congratulations to Gary Ablett and Will Minson for being selected to play for the AAP Alliance!


Reserves
Rio de Janeiro Jaguars (14.13.97) defeated Wellington Warriors (9.6.60)

Best
Rio de Janeiro: R Harwood, S Hill, S Jacobs
Wellington: J Patfull

Ryan Harwood is pushing for a senior spot with a best on ground performance in this 37 point win over Wellington. Two solid games in a row has certainly put his name in the mind of the head coach when decided on the team lineup for the next round. Stephen Hill and Sam Jacobs were the others to impress as they too are trying to force their way back in to the senior side. All this competition for places can only be a good thing for the Pumas and shows that we have some solid depth in case injuries or suspension occur. This win sees the Jaguars retain 6th spot in the reserves league, but hopefully a few more wins can push us in to the top 4.

In one final piece of club news, great news in fact, as Brendan Whitecross made his return from his ACL tear last season this week with a practice match in Sao Paulo. Whitecross got through the game unscathed and will now aim at building up his match fitness in the hope he can be back and firing come finals. Great news for the Pumas!

Round 12 - Pumas Blown Away by the Sands

Sao Paulo Pumas (19.17.131) lost to Cairo Sands (21.14.140)

Best
Sao Paulo: W Minson, G Ablett jnr, Jarryd Roughead, J Gunston, C Masten
Cairo: N Dal Santo, B Sewell, L Breust, L Thomas, O Stephenson

The Pumas have produced their worst performance of the season, going down to Cairo 131 to 140, much to the frustration of the head coach. In such an awful match there are few positives to find take from it. Firstly to the squad line up and two changes were made to the previous rounds team, with Scott McMahon (injured) and Dylan Roberton (poor form) omitted from the lineup, being replaced by Beau Waters and Ryan Harwood, who had performed so well in the reserves recently. The rest of the team remained the same.

The Puma performance this week resembled a team near the bottom of the table, not one with ambitions of winning the flag. One positive that came from the match was Will Minson continuing his fine form of the season, which has put him firmly in the frame for All-world honours come season end. But even with Minson dominating the ruck duel the midfielders could not get their hands on the ball! Taylor Adams and Kyle Martin were both far from their best, with both rather inexperienced at the top level some leeway can be given there, but a week or two for Rio may sharpen them up again. It was not just those two who faltered though with seasoned campaigners Rory Sloane and David Zaharakis both uninspiring through the middle.

The defense was atrocious as well. What was such a high performing unit at the start of the season is starting to crumble at this present time. Hartlett stood tall, however Bachar Houli put in his worst performance of the year, whilst Beau's return from injury was unspectacular. Harwood who had impressed so much for the Jaguars recently could not get it done on the main stage and put in a shocker, so he may be right back out of the side come next round, however the reserve defenders were not that much better and picked up some minor injuries along the way.

The forward line continued to perform well, but just lacked the service from the midfield. Jarryd and Jack Gunston both performed admirably, but Andrew Walker was down on his usual output. Devon Smith looked extremely weary and is due for a few weeks break from the senior team to freshen up for the finals.

Overall a terrible performance that infuriated the coach, but credit must go to Cairo for showing up in Sao Paulo and flying off with 4 points no one saw them taking! This loss has seen Sao Paulo drop from first down to third, and with a tough game against the Wolves this weekend their spot in the top 4 could be in question if they lose that as well. But history is on the Pumas side as they have never lost 2 games in a row before...


Reserves
Rio de Janeiro Jaguars (23.21.159) defeated Alexandria Hieroglyphics (14.12.96)

Best
Rio de Janeiro: J Porplyzia, M Duncan, S Jacobs, M Wright
Alexandria: M Hutchings, D Stanley

The Jaguars took on the top of the table Hieroglyphics who had only lost one game from their first 11, whereas the Jaguars were 7-4 and in 6th spot in the ladder. But the Jaguars came away with a commanding 63 point win thanks to fine efforts from Jason Porplyzia, Mitch Duncan and Sam Jacobs. All three were impressive and with some poor form from some of the seniors spots in the team are up for grabs, so these performances have done their chances no harm. Other great news from the game was Brendan Whitecross played his first match for the Jaguars after doing his ACL last season. It was a solid performance by Brendan who is still lacking some match fitness, but could be back in the Pumas side in the near future :)

Round 13 - Minor Premier Hopes Slip Away as Pumas Lose Consecutive Games

Toronto Wolves (22.13.145) defeated Sao Paulo Pumas (21.17.143)

Best
Toronto: S Pendlebury, B McLean, J Ziebell, N Grima
Sao Paulo: M Duncan, W Minson, R Sloane, D Zaharakis, A Walker, C Masten, J Gunston

Late Changes
Sao Paulo: T Adams & S Jacobs replaced G Ablett jnr & B Houli

After last weeks dismal performance against the Sands a much improved performance was expected against the Wolves this week. The improvement was there, but sadly it was the same result as the Pumas limped to consecutive losses, the first time in Puma history. It was a better display by the Pumas, but things were not helped when captain Gary Ablett and key defender Bachar Houli pulled out of the game during the warmup. This meant that Taylor Adams, who had been dropped due to some poor form was elevated back in to the team, although had to toil out of position in defense to cover Houli, whilst Sam Jacobs, who had last played in round 9, also received a call up. The coach had promised changes after last weeks game and he did not disappoint. In total there were 5 changes to last weeks team, in addition to Houli and Ablett pulling out injured Ryan Harwood, Kyle Martin and Devon Smith were all dropped. Coming in to replace them along with Jacobs were Dylan Roberton, Stephen Hill, Mitch Duncan and Jason Porplyzia.

Analysing each position there were only a couple of let downs, which is what resulted in the loss. The biggest let down was by the coach himself. For what was the first time this season he did not name a defender in the emergency list, and so when Houli pulled out he had direct replacement. This meant that Taylor Adams had to struggle down back in an unfamiliar role. The other defenders (Hartlett, Waters, Roberton) all tried to help him out, but Adams struggled and turned in a poor performance.

The mids on the other hand had a great day, Sloane, Zaha and Masten all performed to their usual standards, but the standout was the man replacing Gary Ablett in the side, Mitch Duncan. Duncan showed great energy and a desire throughout the game to remain in the side. The only disappointment was Stephen Hill, who was well below par today in his first match since round round 3.

The forwards continued their solid run with Walker and Gunston the standouts. Roughy performed solidly, but the Porpoise was a little quiet in his return to senior action. With Ablett out of the side big Will Minson took up the responsibility of captaining the side and did a superb job in Ablett's absence. He was supported occasionally by Sam Jacobs in the ruck, but Jacobs drifted in and out of the game.

In the end the Pumas lost by just 2 points to the Wolves. The Wolves just showed that little bit more desire towards the end of the game, and were cheered on the entire game by their home fans. That extra support was probably what won it for them in the end, and so the Wolves should really thank their fans for their support and belief in the team to get them over the line.

Reserves
Toronto Wolves (26.15.171) defeated Rio de Janeiro Jaguars (16.11.107)

Best
Toronto: L Greenwood, M Shaw, A Embley, M Jamison, D Rodan, C Jones
Rio de Janeiro: D Smith, M Wright, R Harwood

There was nothing the Jaguars could do against a rampaging Wolves reserves side, which was a little disappointing. But the game was not helped when rookie listed Aidan Riley went down injured in the opening minute of the match. In positive news from the game Devon Smith responded to his dropping in exceptional fashion picking up the man of the match award. Ryan Harwood also showed determination to get another chance in the senior squad, whilst Brendan Whitecross continues to build up his match fitness in the reserves.

I'll make sure to thank my fans for you :P

Out of interest, who would have filled the role of Houli if you had named a defensive emergency?

Only had one other defender playing this round and that was Harwood. He scored 80 something so much more than Adams' 22 :(

Round 14 - Pumas Back on the Winners List After Win in the Pacific

Pacific Islanders (17.7.109) lost to Sao Paulo Pumas (21.10.142)

Best
Pacific: T Rockliff, T Mitchell, S Savage
Sao Paulo: Jarryd Roughead, G Ablett jnr, W Minson, C Masten, J Gunston

Due to the Pumas participating in the Champions League Final against arch rivals the Armadillos on the weekend this game was played midweek. It turned out to be the perfect preparation match for the champions league as the Pumas didn't have to break a sweat to defeat the Islanders by 33 points and get their first league win in 3 rounds! Four changes were made for this match with Stephen Hill (omitted), Beat Waters (injured), Taylor Adams (suspended) and Jason Porplyzia (omitted) all out of the team. Replacing them were some big inclusions including superstar and captain Gary Ablett overcoming his calf injury, whilst Brendan Whitecross and Seb Tape both made their first appearances for the club since injuring themselves last season. The final inclusion was Ryan Harwood who had been performing consistently for the Jaguars and deserved another shot.

Despite not improving their attacking potency this week the defensive efforts were much better and were able to restrict the Islanders to just 109 points. Minson was again dominant in the ruck getting the ball down to Ablett and Masten constantly and consistently. This resulted in our forwards receiving plenty of service, which Roughead and Gunston capitalised on to great effect. Overall it was a solid performance by the Pumas and it was great to get back on the winning list.


Reserves
Port Morseby Iguanadons (17.13.115) defeated Rio de Janeiro Jaguars (13.9.87)

Best
Port Morseby: T Nicholls, L Brown, J Witts, M Watson, J Simpkin
Rio de Janeiro: S Hill, J Porplyzia

Despite the Pumas getting up the Jaguars couldn't get the win in the reserves falling short against the Iguanadons. It was a pretty poor performance by the Jaguars with the only two to impress being the two who had been dropped by the Pumas in Hill and Porplyzia. The Jaguars really need to improve their performances if they want to make the reserves finals. It's going to be tough, but I think they can just scrape in!

Pumas Crowned Champions League Winners

History has been made as the Sao Paulo Pumas have been crowned the first ever winners of the Champions League! The win in the final was over arch rivals the Armadillos, but the road to the final started well before them. This year the Champions League consisted of the top 8 teams from the WXV and the top 8 teams from the EXV (next year onwards will be 4 from each of the XV comps), so there was plenty of tough opponents to play against.

Initially teams were split in to groups of 4 and you had to finish in the top 2 to progress to the next round. The Pumas were drawn against fellow WXV team the Wellington Warriors and 2 EXV teams in the Greek Titans and Spanish Stallions. The Pumas cruised through the group stages comfortably winning all 3 games 142-129 (Stallions), 160-85 (Titans) and 157-113 (Warriors) and progressed to the final 8.

The final 8 were required to play each other once each, and the Pumas continued their dominance from the group stages initially winning the first two games 164-136 (Titans again), and 147-130 (Roulettes). But in round 3 Sao Paulo came up against the WXV premiers the Mexico City Suns and were on the receiving end of a 168-140 scoreline. It was the first time the Pumas had met the Suns since they lost to them in the WXV finals last year, and sadly results did not change. Wins over the Swedish Metal (162-157) and Cape Town Cobras (147-134) saw the Pumas sitting on top of the ladder with 4 wins and 1 loss after 5 rounds. But losses to the Armadillos (160-157) and the Macedonian Wolves (133-131) in the final 2 rounds saw the Pumas drop to 4th place and only scrape in to the finals by percentage ahead of the Roulettes.

The Preliminary Final saw the Pumas face up against the Mexico City Suns again, hoping to atone for the earlier loss. And atone the loss they did, defeating the Suns 143-133. This win took the Pumas to the first ever Champions League final, where they had to face the Buenos Aires Armadillos. In what was an epically close final the Pumas prevailed by 5 points 142-137. It was a true spectacle to watch and the Pumas celebrated all night (without alcohol of course there is still the WXV season to finish). The Pumas look forward to attempting to defend their title next year when clubs from the BXV and AXV are also involved. It's sure to be a great tournament!

Hello, and welcome everybody to the 2013 Awards Night for the Sao Paulo Pumas. What a season it has been for the Pumas, and quite a rollercoaster ride along the way, with plenty of highs and also plenty of lows. But the season finished in superb fashion with two miraculous come from behind victories to defeat the clubs two biggest rivals in the Armadillos and Suns to claim the 2013 WXV Premiership! Also added to the trophy case was the Champions League and we retained the Rhythm Cup!

Tonight we celebrate the efforts and achievements of the players who made it all possible and give them the recognition they deserve. This season saw 27 players pull on a Pumas jersey, some for the very first time, whilst in total we had 37 players represent either the Pumas or the Jaguars this year. Tonight there will four awards handed out, which are; the two best and fairest awards, namely the Gatinho for the reserves and the much coveted Gato Grande for the seniors, plus the introduction of two new awards this year, the Most Improved Award, and the Best First Year Award. These awards are self explanatory really, the Most Improved goes to the player who has shown the most improvement from the previous year, either in regards to number of games played for the club, an increase in output and effort or a combination of both, whilst the Best First Year goes to the best player who has spent just one season on the Pumas list.

Last year Gary Ablett took home the Gato Grande and Mitch Duncan the Gatinho. Can they defend their titles, or will someone else step up and claim them? And who will be the inaugural winners of the two new awards? Early money has gone to Will Minson and Dylan Roberton for the Most Improved, whilst Chris Masten and Andrew Walker appear to be fighting it out for the Best First Year, but Jack Gunston quietly told me he thought he was a sneaky chance.

The scoring for the two best and fairest awards is relatively simple. For the Gato Grande each match of the season is looked at and each player is awarded a score of 0 to 5 regarding how they played during that game and what position they play in, so it is possible that in one game all 15 players receive a vote, whilst in the next none of them do. For the Gatinho a simple 3-2-1 is awarded to the three best players for the match. The two other awards will be announced throughout the night, interspersing with the votes from each round. The Best First Year Award will be revealed after round 7, and the Most Improved Award handed out after round 14. Right so on with the votes!

Round 1
Sao Paulo Pumas 25.23.173 defeated 20.17.137 PNL Reindeers
5 - Ablett, Hartlett, Waters
4 - Minson, Waters
3 - N/A
2 - Hill, Jacobs, Wright
1 - N/A

Reserves
Rio de Janeiro Jaguars 13.4.82 lost to 19.16.130 Marseille Kings
3 - Duncan, 2 - Sumner, 1 - Porplyzia

Round 2
Sao Paulo Pumas 21.16.142 defeated 14.13.97 Beijing Thunder
5 - Minson
4 - N/A
3 - McMahon, Waters
2 - Jacobs
1 - Sloane

Reserves
Rio de Janeiro Jaguars 14.10.94 defeated 0.0.0 Shanghai Storm
3 - Zaharakis, 2 - Roberton, 1 - Sheppard

Round 3
Berlin Brewers 23.16.154 lost to 23.22.160 Sao Paulo Pumas
5 - Walker
4 - Hartlett, Houli, Masten, Roberton
3 - N/A
2 - Jacobs, McMahon
1 - Ablett, Minson, Sloane

Reserves
Rhineland Rum-Runners 20.20.140 defeated 12.14.86 Rio de Janeiro Jaguars
3 - Wallis, 2 - Duncan, 1 - Raines

Round 4
Moscow Spetsnaz 20.17.137 lost to 24.13.157 Sao Paulo Pumas
5 - Hartlett
4 - Sloane
3 - Ablett, Roughead
2 - Houli, Minson, Walker
1 - McMahon, Roberton

Reserves
Siberian Wolverines 9.7.61 lost to 15.17.107 Rio de Janeiro Jaguars
3 - Duncan, 2 - Armstrong, 1 - Gunston

Round 5 - Rhythm Cup
Sao Paulo Pumas 25.14.164 defeated 22.23.155 Buenos Aires Armadillos
5 - Ablett, Hartlett, Smith
4 - Houli, Walker, Zaharakis
3 - N/A
2 - Minson
1 - N/A

Reserves
Rio de Janeiro Jaguars 16.10.106 defeated 13.9.87 Buenos Aires Armadillos
3 - Gunston, 2 - Armstrong, 1 - Hill

Round 6
Tokyo Samurai 20.18.138 lost to 21.21.147 Sao Paulo Pumas
5 - Walker
4 - Ablett, Roberton
3 - Masten, Roughead
2 - Minson
1 - Houli

Reserves
Yuzawa Typhoon 10.9.69 lost to 15.16.106 Rio de Janeiro Jaguars
3 - Adams, 2 - White, 1 - Porplyzia

Round 7
Sao Paulo Pumas 20.23.143 lost to 22.12.144 Cape Town Cobras
5 - Ablett
4 - Minson, Roughead
3 - Houli
2 - Zaharakis
1 - Sloane

Reserves
Rio de Janeiro Jaguars 20.14.134 lost to 23.14.152 Cape Town Cobras
3 - Wright, 2 - Daw, 1 - Gunston


So after seven rounds played we are now one third of the way through all 21 matches that the Pumas played this year (Jaguars only played 18), so lets check the leader boards before then anouncing the winner of the Best First Year Award.

Gato Grande
23 votes - Gary Ablett
21 - Andrew Walker
20 - Will Minson
19 - Hamish Hartlett
14 - Bachar Houli
10 - Jarryd Roughead
9 - Dylan Roberton
7 - Chris Masten, Rory Sloane, Beau Waters
6 - Sam Jacobs, Scott McMahon, David Zaharakis
5 - Devon Smith
2 - Stephen Hill, Matthew Wright

Gatinho
8 votes - Mitch Duncan
5 - Jack Gunston
4 - Tony Armstrong
3 - Taylor Adams, Mitch Wallis, Matthew Wright, David Zaharakis
2 - Majak Daw, Jason Porplyzia, Dylan Roberton, Liam Sumner, Simon White
1 - Stephen Hill, Andrew Raines, Brad Sheppard

So very tight at the top in the Gato Grande, with just 4 votes separating the top 4 places at the moment, with Gary Ablett leading from the front as he always does. In the Gatinho, Mitch Duncan is holding a 3 vote lead over Jack Gunston, followed by Tony Armstrong 4 votes behind. A bunch of players then have 2 or 3 votes to their name.

It is now time to announce the recipient of the first ever Best First Year Award. It was a tightly fought contest throughout the season between two player the Pumas traded in during the off season, and they were Chris Masten and Andrew Walker. But in the end the award there was a clear winner and that is Andrew Walker! Walker has had a brilliant first year at the Pumas that is for sure. Recruited from the Islanders in exchange for Jarryd Blair the original intention had been to recruit him as a backup/depth player up forward for the Pumas. However a standout preseason saw Walker start in the first round and never look back! A great season capped off this past week with a premiership medallion, and being named the MVP of the entire competition. Congratulations Andrew!

(http://images.theage.com.au/2011/06/17/2436713/art-svWALKER-420x0.jpg)

Thats one right so far! haha

Round 8
Sao Paulo Pumas 25.17.167 defeated 17.14.116 New York Revolution
5 - Houli, Roughead
4 - Gunston, Minson, Roberton
3 - Sloane
2 - Jacobs
1 - Ablett, Walker, Waters

Reserves
Rio de Janiero Jaguars 15.14.104 defeated 14.12.96 Washington Rebellion
3 - Adams, 2 - Smith, 1 - White

Round 9
Seoul Magpies 19.15.129 lost to 22.15.147 Sao Paulo Pumas
5 - N/A
4 - Ablett
3 - N/A
2 - Gunston, Hartlett, Minson
1 - McMahon, Roberton, Roughead, Zaharakis

Reserves
Pyongyang Chollimas 11.7.73 lost to 11.10.76 Rio de Janeiro Jaguars
3 - Duncan, 2 - Sheppard, 1 - Silvagni

Round 10
Sao Paulo Pumas 25.12.162 defeated 19.13.127 London Royals
5 - Minson, Walker
4 - N/A
3 - Ablett, Sloane
2 - Houli, Roughead
1 - Hartlett, Zaharakis

Reserves
Rio de Janeiro Jaguars 22.16.148 lost to 27.13.175 Imperial Princes
3 - Duncan, 2 - White, 1 - Hill

Round 11
Sao Paulo Pumas 23.23.161 defeated 18.9.117 Wellington Warriors
5 - Ablett, Walker
4 - Houli
3 - N/A
2 - Gunston
1 - Hartlett, Roughead

Reserves
Rio de Janeiro Jaguars 14.13.97 defeated 9.6.60 Wellington Warriors
3 - Harwood, 2 - Hill, 1 - Jacobs

Round 12
Sao Paulo Pumas 19.17.131 lost to 21.14.140 Cairo Sands
5 - N/A
4 - Minson
3 - Roughead
2 - Ablett, Gunston, Hartlett
1 - Masten

Reserves
Rio de Janeiro Jaguars 23.21.159 defeated 14.12.96 Alexandria Hieroglyphics
3 - Porplyzia, 2 - Duncan, 1 - Jacobs

Round 13
Toronto Wolves 22.13.145 defeated 21.17.143 Sao Paulo Pumas
5 - N/A
4 - N/A
3 - Minson
2 - Gunston, Hartlett, Walker, Wright
1 - Masten, Roughead, Sloane, Waters, Zaharakis

Reserves
Toronto Wolves 26.15.171 defeated 16.11.107 Rio de Janeiro Jaguars
3 - Smith, 2 - Wright, 1 - Harwood

Round 14
Pacific Islanders 17.7.109 lost to 21.10.142 Sao Paulo Pumas
5 - Roughead
4 - N/A
3 - Gunston, Minson
2 - Ablett, Masten
1 - Roberton, Walker

Reserves
Port Morseby Iguanadons 17.13.115 defeated 13.9.87 Rio de Janeiro Jaguars
3 - Hill, 2 - Porplyzia, 1 - Smith

We are now 14 rounds in, so lets go check those leader boards again! Followed by the presentation of the Most Improved Award!

Gato Grande
41 votes - Will Minson
40 - Gary Ablett
35 - Andrew Walker
28 - Jarryd Roughead
27 - Hamish Hartlett
25 - Bachar Houli
15 - Jack Gunston, Dylan Roberton
14 - Rory Sloane
11 - Chris Masten
9 - Beau Waters, David Zaharakis
8 - Sam Jacobs
7 - Scott McMahon
5 - Devon Smith
2 - Mitch Duncan, Stephen Hill, Matthew Wright

Gatinho
16 votes - Mitch Duncan
7 - Stephen Hill, Jason Porplyzia
6 - Taylor Adams, Devon Smith
5 - Jack Gunston, Simon White, Matthew Wright
4 - Tony Armstrong, Ryan Harwood
3 - Brad Sheppard, Mitch Wallis, David Zaharakis
2 - Majak Daw, Sam Jacobs, Dylan Roberton, Liam Sumner
1 - Andrew Raines, Alex Silvagni

So with just four reserves games to go it appears that the result is a foregone conclusion, with Mitch Duncan holding a 9 vote lead over the trailing pack. It appears that Mitch will receive his second Gatinho. In the seniors it is a much more exciting affair with 7 games to play. Will Minson holds a 1 vote lead over Gary Ablett, with Walker the only other true challenger 6 votes behind. With 7 rounds to go anything could happen!

Ladies and gentlemen it's now time to present the second award of the evening. This time it is for the Most Improved player at the club. There were three standout options to choose from here. Firstly big Will Minson who stood up and became the number one ruckman at the club and captained the Pumas to premiership glory. Secondly is young defender Dylan Roberton, who went from playing just four games last year to 17 this season and becoming a vital member of the defence. And thirdly is Mitch Duncan. Mitch played just one game last year for the Pumas, but played 12 games this year, cementing his spot in the midfield four by the end of the year. All would be worthy winners, but there can only be one. The winner of the Most Improved Award is... Dylan Roberton! As mentioned Roberton played just 4 games for the Pumas last season at a measly average of just 41.5 per game. This season however he stepped it up playing 17 games and improving his average by almost 36 ppg up to 77.18. He played the third most number of games for a defender this season behind Hartlett and Houli. Congratulations Dylan on a fantastic season, we hope to see more improvement next year!

(http://www.saints.com.au/staticfile/AFL%20Tenant/StKilda/Images/130328Roberton620_620X370.jpg)

Round 15
Sao Paulo Pumas 23.12.150 defeated 19.9.123 New Delhi Tigers
5 - Ablett
4 - N/A
3 - Masten
2 - Walker
1 - Hartlett, Harwood

Reserves
Rio de Janiero Jaguars 16.10.106 defeated 6.2.38 Mumbai Elephants
3 - Wright, 2 - Adams, 1 - Whitecross

Round 16
Dublin Destroyers 25.16.166 defeated 22.10.142 Sao Paulo Pumas
5 - N/A
4 - N/A
3 - Hartlett, Minson, Walker
2 - Ablett, Hill, Houli, Sloane
1 - N/A

Reserves
Belfast Braves 13.10.88 defeated 11.5.71 Rio de Janiero Jaguars
3 - Wallis, 2 - Whitecross, 1 - Smith

Round 17
Mexico City Suns 24.13.157 defeated 20.16.136 Sao Paulo Pumas
5 - Hartlett
4 - N/A
3 - N/A
2 - Roberton, Wright
1 - Ablett, Houli, Jacobs, Minson

Reserves
Mexico City Suns 7.6.48 lost to Rio de Janeiro Jaguars
3 - Wallis, 2 - Smith, 1 - Tape

Qualifying Final
Mexico City Suns 20.16.136 defeated 20.11.131 Sao Paulo Pumas
5 - Sloane
4 - Minson
3 - Roughead
2 - Houli
1 - Hartlett

Reserves (Elimination Final)
Imperial Princes 22.12.144 defeated 16.11.107 Rio de Janeiro Jaguars
3 - Jacobs, 2 - Whitecross, 1 - Tape

Semi Final
Sao Paulo Pumas 23.14.152 defeated 22.12.144 Cairo Sands
5 - N/A
4 - N/A
3 - Walker
2 - Hartlett, Harwood, Minson
1 - Hill, Roberton, Sloane, Whitecross

Preliminary Final - Rhythm Cup
Buenos Aires Armadillos 22.13.145 lost to 22.14.146 Sao Paulo Pumas
5 - Minson
4 - Houli
3 - Jacobs
2 - Duncan, Masten, Roughead, Sloane, Zaharakis
1 - Harwood

Grand Final
Mexico City Suncs 23.12.150 lost to 24.16.160 Sao Paulo Pumas
5 - Ablett, Minson
4 - Walker
3 - Buntine, Roughead, Sloane
2 - Gunston
1 - Harwood

So that concludes the count, which means it's time to announce the winners.

2 from 2!

Duncan should make it 3, but Minson is ruining my plans!

First to be announced will be the Gatinho... We have a tie for 2nd place! Equal on 9 votes apiece are Devon Smith and Mitch Wallis. A great effort from both lads who also managed to play a fair bit of senior football this season too. Wallis finished with 7 Puma games and just missed out on the grand final, whilst Devon played 8 games, but was unavailable for the grand final. Devon was also named in the Reserves All-Worlds Side!
But the clear winner of the Gatinho is for the second year running, with 16 votes, is Mitch Duncan! It was another fantastic year by Mitch who only played 9 reserves games to win this award. He ended up playing 12 senior games, picked up a premiership medal and was named the Vice Captain of the Reserves All-Worlds Side. Congratulations Mitch!

(http://www.geelongcats.com.au/staticfile/AFL%20Tenant/Media/Images/280808-tlsnewsportrait.jpg)

And now it's time for what you've all been waiting for. The presentation of the Gato Grande... In 3rd place on 47 votes is this years MVP and the Pumas' Best First Year player, none other than Andrew Walker. In 2nd place, on 53 votes and just missing out on his second Gato Grande is Gary Ablett! Ablett has had a magnificent year, picking up a premiership medallion, the Jim Stynes Medal, the Ayres/McLeod Medal and also the O'Brien Medal. His list of achievements just keeps growing! But if Ablett came second, then who has won? That's right you guessed it... The winner of the Gato Grande with an impressive 61 votes is fan favourite Will Minson! Big Will was a revelation this year, dominating the ruck for the Pumas, to give our midfielders first use of the footy. So consistent was his year that he polled in 19 of the 21 matches this season. This consistency was rewarded with him captaining the side in the grand final match against Mexico City. Congratulations Will, this is a very much deserved award!

(http://resources0.news.com.au/images/2013/06/03/1226656/464816-7f7ad606-cc2d-11e2-8018-aff37e6e4f70.jpg)

So there we have it folks, everything is just wrapping up here. Below are graphics of how everyone fared voting wise in every match this season. Congratulations to all winners, and congrats to everyone at the Pumas for such a terrific season!

Quote from: Purple 77 on September 02, 2013, 07:25:35 PM
2 from 2!

Duncan should make it 3, but Minson is ruining my plans!

3 out of 4 certainly isn't a bad effort ;)

Minson! Who ta thunk it?

Ablett wins the JS, and is up there with the MVP, but can't get the B & F haha

Yeah who would have picked that at the start of the season! Interesting to see that even though everyone was doging on Hartlett almost all season he still ended up 4th in my B&F with 39 votes! As you can see with only 3 midfielders in the top 10 my voting system is definitely not mid friendly!

Quote from: Purple 77 on September 02, 2013, 07:42:48 PM
Minson! Who ta thunk it?

Ablett wins the JS, and is up there with the MVP, but can't get the B & F haha

I know right! I picked Ablett, Duncan, Minson and Walker, so only 2/4 right haha. Minson certainly had a massive year and his finals campaign was top notch :o. If Ablett can win most other big awards, but not the B&F like Purps said, scary thoughts with the talent you have :-X.

Great write ups CF, was a fun read! :D.

Buntine 3 votes in the grand final, GOAT player

Terrific read cf! Munson deserving winner, who was unlucky to miss All-Worlds selection

Thanks guys :) Thought Minson winning my surprise a few, but Minson killed it towards the end of the season whereas Ablett dropped off and didn't register a vote in 3 of the 4 finals!

Jukes if Buntine had continued on that same scoring pattern and played the same number of games as Minson he would have polled 63 votes to win by 2 haha!

Dual Gatinho Medalist Departs Club

Mitch Duncan has left the Puma Den in search of a more assured place in the senior team. He will however remain a cat, moving from the Pumas to the Tigers in New Delhi. It is sad to see such a promising youngster leave the team, but understandable that he wants more first team football. In the two years at the club Duncan played just 13 games for the Pumas, 12 of which were this year, and had looked like he had cemented his place in the team after playing the last 9 matches and being a part of the premiership winning side, but the lure of a higher pay packet and a greater leadership role at the Tigers was one he couldn't ignore. We caught up with Mitch after the announcement the trade had passed and he had this to say.

"Look, it's a hard time to leave the club after such success, but I just felt it was time to move on and try to show myself as an elite midfielder rather than be left behind the likes of Gary (Ablett), Rory (Sloane) and Chris (Masten). They are all great blokes, but with the strength and depth of the Puma midfield I just wanted to make a fresh start somewhere else where I can forge a name for myself.

I'm really looking forward to the move to New Delhi, elephants and Ricochet are great coaches and I want to be part of the team that helps turn around the fortunes of the Tigers after a poor season. I've tasted the highs at the Pumas, winning the premiership as well as winning the two Gatinho's, but now it's time to work hard and help a club fight to build it's way up.

I'll never forget my time at the Pumas, and I have a huge amount of gratitude towards coach CrowsFan who gave me my chance. During my first season I was getting frustrated that I was performing well at reserves level but couldn't break in to the Puma side. CF told me to just keep working at it and my time will come. I finally got my debut in the finals last year, but sadly that was a loss and we were out of the competition. So I worked hard all pre season ready to show what I could do. Again I started the season in the reserves, but again CF told me my time would come and I believed him. When I got my chance I took it and didn't want to give it up for anyone. I felt so lucky that I was part of the team to win the premiership, it was the best moment in my footy career so far.

Thanks so much to CF for everything he has done for me, and thanks to the rest of the playing group for making me feel as if I truly belonged in Brazil. A big thanks to the fans too who always supported me. I will miss this club a great deal, but I have high hopes for the rest of my career. Perhaps one day I will come back to the Pumas..."

So Duncan departs, but what do the Pumas gain in return? After the season finished CrowsFan identified the biggest issue in the squad was a lack of forward options. Walker has transformed himself as a defender and Whitecross unfortunately reruptured his ACL, so the forward depth was sparse. So unsurprisingly the Pumas have gained a forward in return, and in the usual CF manner it is a young forward with plenty of potential, Jake Stringer will be making the trip to Sao Paulo. Taken with pick 7 in the International Draft last year the Pumas are extremely pleased to secure this exciting prospect and hope to see him make his debut early next year. The rest of the trade saw international pick 57 go to New Delhi, whilst another promising youngster Ben Jacobs also moves to Pumas. Sadly Stringer, Jacobs and CrowsFan were all unavailable for comment at this point in time.

The list of young, exciting, promising players at the Pumas is endless, which should leave the Pumas in good stead to try and defend their premiership next season and remain a fighting force for years to come. Go Pumas!

Got a few accolades does Dunk.  :o

And the Premiership side starts to crumble already! If Buntine leaves it will be a body blow....

I heard a rumour that Chris Masten wants to come back to Cairo.  :o ;)

Let the exodus continue!

Lol, he remains a cat, what a delightful coincidence haha, that was good  ;D

Quote from: ossie85 on October 04, 2013, 04:04:14 PM

And the Premiership side starts to crumble already! If Buntine leaves it will be a body blow....

Everybody panic!!!

Hmm let's see how this plays out. My premiership team was...

Houli, Roberton, Harwood, Buntine
Ablett, Sloane, Masten, Duncan
Minson
Walker, Roughead, Gunston, Whitecross
Jacobs, Adams

Trades and positional changes can see my team line up like this (WhiteX injured)...

Walker, Waters, Houli, Roberton/Harwood
Ablett, Sloane, Masten, Hartlett
Minson
Roughead, Gunston, Devon Smith, Wright
Jacobs, Adams/Zaha/Hill/Wallis

The F4 spot still looks troublesome, but apart from that very strong team :)

Quote from: NigeyS on October 04, 2013, 02:45:37 PM
Got a few accolades does Dunk.  :o

2013 Premiership Player
2012 + 2013 x Gatinho Medalist
2012 Reserves All-Worlds Team
2013 Vice Captain Reserves All-Worlds Team

Yeah not a bad achievement list ;)

Quote from: CrowsFan on October 04, 2013, 04:41:12 PM

Quote from: NigeyS on October 04, 2013, 02:45:37 PM
Got a few accolades does Dunk.  :o

2013 Premiership Player
2012 + 2013 x Gatinho Medalist
2012 Reserves All-Worlds Team
2013 Vice Captain Reserves All-Worlds Team

Yeah not a bad achievement list ;)

Might as well add New Delhi Tigers Vice Captain to that list ;)

Very impressive writeups & thread in general mate! :)

Thanks LE :) when you only have one team to look after it makes it pretty easy to do it well :)

Trade Window Draws to a Close

In - Jake Stringer, Ben Jacobs, International Draft Picks 17, 24, 33, Rookie Draft Pick 22
Out - Mitch Duncan, Andrew Raines, Brad Sheppard Seb Tape, International Draft Picks 18, 39, 57, 75, 93
International Draft Picks - 17, 24, 33
Rookie Draft Picks - 18, 22, 36, 54, 72

The 2013 trade period was a slightly more subdued affair compared to the previous year for the Pumas. In 2012 the Pumas made 7 trades, which saw 7 players leave the club and 6 players join. This year however only 5 trades were made, seeing just 2 players join the club, whilst 4 players departed. A raft of draft picks were exchanged either way.

Joining the club are youngsters Jake Stringer and Ben Jacobs, who CrowsFan views as players with plenty of potential, but before they get a go in the team they will have to buckle down and train hard to impress him. The major departure was Mitch Duncan, the dual Gatinho medalist and premiership winner leaving the club to join New Delhi. The other departures were Seb Tape (3 games in 2 years), Andrew Raines (0 games in 2 years) and Brad Sheppard (0 games in 1 year). Tape jetted off to Moscow, Raines followed Duncan to New Delhi, whilst Sheppard cut his losses after one season at the club and joined Pacific. The Pumas wish them all the best in their future endeavours.

So with trade period over, it's time for the drafts to begin. In the International Draft the Pumas hold picks 17, 24 and 33, which CrowsFan believes they will be able to pick up some top quality youngsters to spur the club on further next year. Early rumours spreading from the club are that they are after a forward with the first pick, but these weren't confirmed by CrowsFan when asked. It's clear he is keeping his cards close to his chest on this one. Last year the Pumas recruited Jono O'Rourke and Mason Wood, who both spent the majority of the year working hard in training, but not getting any chances to show their skills on the field. We look forward to seeing who he selects this year!

Quote from: CrowsFan on November 18, 2013, 12:48:16 AM
Tape jetted off to Moscow, Raines followed Duncan to New Delhi, whilst Sheppard cut his losses after one season at the club and joined Pacific. The Pumas wish them all the best in their future endeavours.

Pacific via Moscow :P

Quote from: CrowsFan on November 18, 2013, 12:48:16 AM
Joining the club are youngsters Jake Stringer and Ben Jacobs, who CrowsFan views as players with plenty of potential, but before they get a go in the team they will have to buckle down and train hard to impress him. The major departure was Mitch Duncan, the dual Gatinho medalist and premiership winner leaving the club to join New Delhi.

The NDT-SPP alliance proving worthwhile for both sides here 8) Nice article mate!

Quote from: Jukes on November 18, 2013, 01:25:52 AM

Quote from: CrowsFan on November 18, 2013, 12:48:16 AM
Tape jetted off to Moscow, Raines followed Duncan to New Delhi, whilst Sheppard cut his losses after one season at the club and joined Pacific. The Pumas wish them all the best in their future endeavours.

Pacific via Moscow :P

I lose interest once they leave my club :P
If he's at Pacific then he has paired up again with Sheppard. They shared a house together in Brazil, so I guess they wanted to live together a little longer!

Quote from: elephants on November 18, 2013, 01:40:46 AM

Quote from: CrowsFan on November 18, 2013, 12:48:16 AM
Joining the club are youngsters Jake Stringer and Ben Jacobs, who CrowsFan views as players with plenty of potential, but before they get a go in the team they will have to buckle down and train hard to impress him. The major departure was Mitch Duncan, the dual Gatinho medalist and premiership winner leaving the club to join New Delhi.

The NDT-SPP alliance proving worthwhile for both sides here 8) Nice article mate!

It's actually the SPP-NDT alliance :P

Good write-up CrowsFan! Keeping the Premiership starts mostly together....

Yeah just Duncan lost. Almost lost Buntine when he walked in to my office and demanded a raise since he was the third highest averaging player at the Pumas for the last 2 years (behind Ablett and Sloane). Of course I couldn't risk losing him so I tripled his salary! :o

Quote from: CrowsFan on November 18, 2013, 09:38:25 AM
Yeah just Duncan lost. Almost lost Buntine when he walked in to my office and demanded a raise since he was the third highest averaging player at the Pumas for the last 2 years (behind Ablett and Sloane). Of course I couldn't risk losing him so I tripled his salary! :o

Statistics show that for every game Buntine plays, you win a premiership.

Quote from: ossie85 on November 18, 2013, 11:42:39 AM

Quote from: CrowsFan on November 18, 2013, 09:38:25 AM
Yeah just Duncan lost. Almost lost Buntine when he walked in to my office and demanded a raise since he was the third highest averaging player at the Pumas for the last 2 years (behind Ablett and Sloane). Of course I couldn't risk losing him so I tripled his salary! :o

Statistics show that for every game Buntine plays, you win a premiership.

I love stats ;D

Pumas Farewell Four as Draft Anticipation Builds

The SP Pumas today announced the delisting of four players as they had to cull their list to make room for the draft picks which will be taken next week. Saying goodbye to the club are young defenders Alex Forster, Ariel Steinberg and Peter Yagmoor, along with forward Haiden Schloithe, none of whom played a senior match for the Pumas during their time at the club. Steinberg and Yagmoor have decided they would like another shot at WXV footy and so have nominated themselves for the upcoming drafts, however Forster and Schloithe have announced they will take the next year off from senior footy and make a decision next year regarding whether they want to give WXV another chance.

In better news for the club CrowsFan has announced that he will be using his 6th round International draft pick to promote Aidan Riley to the senior list after spending last year as a rookie. Despite breaking his leg, which resulted in Riley managing to play just two matches for the Jaguars CF saw enough in training to give him a chance on the senior list. The hard-at-it midfielder knows he has a lot of work to do to break in to the Pumas starting team, but it's a chance he is very grateful for.

So with the delistings announced the Pumas head in to next weeks drafts with 38 senior players (including the promoted Riley) and 1 rookie listed player (Ben Newton). As a result the Pumas will be using picks 17, 24 and 33 in the International draft and picks 18, 22 and 36 in the Rookie draft. CF has some ideas on who he is looking to take, but is holding his cards close to his chest at this point in time, with the only soundbite given was that he is "very excited" for the drafting to begin!

Puma Fans Salivate at Draft Arrivals

The Sao Paulo army of followers are licking their lips at the tantalizing prospects the Pumas managed to pick up in the 2013 International Draft. With picks 17, 24 and 33 in the draft the Pumas knew they would be able to bring in some talent, and by the looks of it they have managed to do just that. Joining the club are Nathan Freeman, Zak Jones and Marco Paparone.

Pick 17 - Nathan Freeman
(http://www.afl.com.au/staticfile/AFL%20Tenant/AFL/Files/Images/FREEMAN1620x370-2nd.jpg)

Freeman is a tough inside midfielder who possesses a great burst of speed breaking through packs. Described as a "clearance freak" and compared to superstar Paddy Dangerfield in the way he plays, Nathan joins the impressive list of young midfielders at the Pumas and looks determined to forge a strong career for himself as a Puma.


Pick 24 - Zak Jones
(http://www.afl.com.au/staticfile/AFL%20Tenant/AFL/Files/Images/zak-jones-620x370x.jpg)

The name Jones is already well known in the WXV as his older brother Nathan plays for the PNL Reindeers. Like his brother Zak is a hard-at-it no-nonsense type who gives his all. Unlike his brother however Zak plays a little further back in the team, preferring to rebound the ball out of defense, however he can push up the ground in to the midfield if needed. Zak is clean in possession and will add something different down back.


Pick 33 - Marco Paparone
(http://www.afl.com.au/staticfile/AFL%20Tenant/AFL/Files/1_05BLMe13PH%201147.jpg)

A shock delisting by the New York Revolution, the Pumas snapped him up with their final pick in the draft with fans and players calling out for reinforcements up forward. With one year already in the system Paparone brings a little more experience than a freshly drafted player. There is a lot to like about this kid, he has strong hands and can run all day, much to the despair of any defender trying to mark him.


As well as these three additions Aidan Riley has been elevated to the senior list, further increasing the depth in midfield. Overall the coaching staff were very pleased with who was available for selection. The players themselves know that it is going to take a lot of work to break in to the reigning champions first XV, but they are excited to train with such a strong group and look forward to the future ahead.

Go Pumas!

Great pick in Paparone CF!

Thanks nrich :)

Yeah, I was tempted to take Paparone at #21

Delisted Paparone wot even haha, kid is a jet nicely done CF.

yeah whoever delisted him should get sacked for tanking

Quote from: Sid on December 06, 2013, 10:37:27 PM
Delisted Paparone wot even haha, kid is a jet nicely done CF.

Our mate Lamby did that.  :P

Quote from: NigeyS on December 06, 2013, 10:39:53 PM

Quote from: Sid on December 06, 2013, 10:37:27 PM
Delisted Paparone wot even haha, kid is a jet nicely done CF.

Our mate Lamby did that.  :P

He did ask me on chat if I'd help him with the list lodgement, I said okay, then didn't log in for a week.

Stuff like this is why I retired. :P
Also we will miss you Pizza Man. <3

Quote from: Sid on December 06, 2013, 10:37:27 PM
Delisted Paparone wot even haha, kid is a jet nicely done CF.

Think he just got lost in translation when pyro was submitting the list. Unfortunate for New York, but Paparone is not complaining about moving down south :)

Rookies Ready to Buckle Down

The Rookie Draft is over for the Pumas and the rookie list now full. Selected in the draft for SP was defender Jake Kelly and forwards Josh Hall and Blaine Johnson, these three will join Ben Newton, who was retained for a second, on the Puma rookie list for season 2014. All four players understand it will be difficult to break in to the Puma team starting from so far back, but will be buoyed by the fact Aidan Riley managed to get himself on to the senior list from the rookie list, so the chances are there. Some determination and hard work in training can pay off and the rookies are ready to put in the hard yards to impress the coach.

In other news squad numbers have now been finalised for the upcoming season, barring any trades in the final period that is. Players who have changed numbers for the 2014 season are; Jack Gunston (formally 22) who will wear the number 11 jersey vacated by premiership player Mitch Duncan, Taylor Adams (formally 25) who will wear Brad Sheppard's 16, and Aidan Riley who has moved from 42 to 41 (Andrew Raines) to indicate he is now on the senior list. The new arrivals at the club have also been allocated their jersey, and the numbers are as follows; Nathan Freeman will wear 22 (formally Gunston), Jake Stringer 25 (Adams), Marco Paparone will don the 30 (Seb Tape), Ben Jacobs wanted and received 37 (Alex Forster), and Zak Jones has received number 40 (Ariel Steinberg). The rookies Hall, Johnson and Kelly have received the numbers 42, 43 and 45 respectively.

Good luck to everyone for the new season. Go Pumas!

Was having a quick look back through my thread as I was editing the front page (team list updated with profile links, plus fixtures added) and came across this...

Quote from: ossie85 on February 26, 2013, 07:56:05 AM
Buntine would have been struggling for your best XV I think, but never good when a player goes down...

You are right he struggled to be best XV, playing just the one game, but... he is a premiership player!  ;D

Quote from: CrowsFan on December 17, 2013, 04:02:31 PM
Was having a quick look back through my thread as I was editing the front page (team list updated with profile links, plus fixtures added) and came across this...

Quote from: ossie85 on February 26, 2013, 07:56:05 AM
Buntine would have been struggling for your best XV I think, but never good when a player goes down...

You are right he struggled to be best XV, playing just the one game, but... he is a premiership player!  ;D

You and I both know he only played because of injury :P

Quote from: ossie85 on December 17, 2013, 04:04:22 PM

Quote from: CrowsFan on December 17, 2013, 04:02:31 PM
Was having a quick look back through my thread as I was editing the front page (team list updated with profile links, plus fixtures added) and came across this...

Quote from: ossie85 on February 26, 2013, 07:56:05 AM
Buntine would have been struggling for your best XV I think, but never good when a player goes down...

You are right he struggled to be best XV, playing just the one game, but... he is a premiership player!  ;D

You and I both know he only played because of injury :P

Doesn't matter why he played, he still played and was my best performing defender! 6th best for the whole team! :P

I expect him to be named every week if fit from now on!

Quote from: ossie85 on December 17, 2013, 04:44:56 PM

I expect him to be named every week if fit from now on!

Think I would prefer to keep his record of every time he plays he wins a premiership. Clearly he is a big game player :P

Quote from: CrowsFan on December 17, 2013, 04:57:49 PM

Quote from: ossie85 on December 17, 2013, 04:44:56 PM

I expect him to be named every week if fit from now on!

Think I would prefer to keep his record of every time he plays he wins a premiership. Clearly he is a big game player :P

If he plays in a premership than does get a gig he may look elsewhere to get a go.

Quote from: Holzman on December 17, 2013, 04:58:49 PM

Quote from: CrowsFan on December 17, 2013, 04:57:49 PM

Quote from: ossie85 on December 17, 2013, 04:44:56 PM

I expect him to be named every week if fit from now on!

Think I would prefer to keep his record of every time he plays he wins a premiership. Clearly he is a big game player :P

If he plays in a premership than does get a gig he may look elsewhere to get a go.

You saying you're interested?

Quote from: CrowsFan on December 17, 2013, 05:05:05 PM

Quote from: Holzman on December 17, 2013, 04:58:49 PM

Quote from: CrowsFan on December 17, 2013, 04:57:49 PM

Quote from: ossie85 on December 17, 2013, 04:44:56 PM

I expect him to be named every week if fit from now on!

Think I would prefer to keep his record of every time he plays he wins a premiership. Clearly he is a big game player :P

If he plays in a premership than does get a gig he may look elsewhere to get a go.

You saying you're interested?

probably a smaller team, or he could walk as a free agent.

Quote from: Holzman on December 17, 2013, 05:13:51 PM

Quote from: CrowsFan on December 17, 2013, 05:05:05 PM

Quote from: Holzman on December 17, 2013, 04:58:49 PM

Quote from: CrowsFan on December 17, 2013, 04:57:49 PM

Quote from: ossie85 on December 17, 2013, 04:44:56 PM

I expect him to be named every week if fit from now on!

Think I would prefer to keep his record of every time he plays he wins a premiership. Clearly he is a big game player :P

If he plays in a premership than does get a gig he may look elsewhere to get a go.

You saying you're interested?

probably a smaller team, or he could walk as a free agent.

That's if ossie decides to implement some form of free agency... Which I'm strongly against because it punishes teams for having depth.

Been updating the info on my team and pretty much done now. Look at that trophy case!! May have to get a bigger one soon... :o 8)

Quote from: CrowsFan on December 20, 2013, 01:10:12 PM
Been updating the info on my team and pretty much done now. Look at that trophy case!! May have to get a bigger one soon... :o 8)

nicely done :) And you are even missing your 2012 Minor Premiership also!

Looks awesome CF, but no need to get a bigger one, you won't be winning anymore trophies  :P

Quote from: ossie85 on December 20, 2013, 01:14:15 PM

Quote from: CrowsFan on December 20, 2013, 01:10:12 PM
Been updating the info on my team and pretty much done now. Look at that trophy case!! May have to get a bigger one soon... :o 8)

nicely done :) And you are even missing your 2012 Minor Premiership also!

Didn't realise I would get a trophy for the Minor Premiership. Hmm may have to go investigating for another trophy maker haha!

Quote from: JROO8 on December 20, 2013, 01:14:29 PM
Looks awesome CF, but no need to get a bigger one, you won't be winning anymore trophies  :P

Look I am always going to win the Rhythm Cup. Home game this season then next season nails won't have any players since they will all have retired...

Quote from: CrowsFan on December 20, 2013, 01:22:17 PM

Quote from: ossie85 on December 20, 2013, 01:14:15 PM

Quote from: CrowsFan on December 20, 2013, 01:10:12 PM
Been updating the info on my team and pretty much done now. Look at that trophy case!! May have to get a bigger one soon... :o 8)

nicely done :) And you are even missing your 2012 Minor Premiership also!

Didn't realise I would get a trophy for the Minor Premiership. Hmm may have to go investigating for another trophy maker haha!

Quote from: JROO8 on December 20, 2013, 01:14:29 PM
Looks awesome CF, but no need to get a bigger one, you won't be winning anymore trophies  :P

Look I am always going to win the Rhythm Cup. Home game this season then next season nails won't have any players since they will all have retired...

Theres a new Cup for each Rhythm Cup match? :P

Quote from: JBs-Hawks on December 20, 2013, 01:36:46 PM
Theres a new Cup for each Rhythm Cup match? :P

^ this. What, you think Worlds is made of money?

Quote from: ossie85 on December 20, 2013, 02:06:26 PM

Quote from: JBs-Hawks on December 20, 2013, 01:36:46 PM
Theres a new Cup for each Rhythm Cup match? :P

^ this. What, you think Worlds is made of money?

Fine! I've handed them back :(

End of Season Trade Analysis

Following on from the mid-season analysis (which can be found here (http://forum.fanfooty.com.au/index.php/topic,44833.msg1100539.html#msg1100539)), this post will assess each of 9 trades the Pumas made last season and see if they were winners or losers 1 year in, keeping in mind many of these trades were made with the future in mind. Plus considering we won the premiership, probably can't say the trading didn't work out! Anyway let's get on with it...

Trade 1 - With Toronto Wolves
Gave: Sam Fisher and Pick 53
Received: Taylor Adams and Pick 32 (on traded to New York)

Stats
Taylor Adams (M)
Games for Pumas: 10, 76.60 avg
Games for Jaguars: 5, 73.80 avg

Sam Fisher (D)
Games: 9, 79.78 avg

Summary
Taylor had a very impressive debut year with the Pumas. Injured at the start of the year he fought back well and ended up breaking his way in to the starting XV and finished with a premiership medal around his neck. 10 games at an average of 76.6 is impressive for a guy who didn't turn 20 until after the season had finished. More improvement is expected of him again next year as he looks to help defend the title. Fisher on the other hand just managed the 9 games for the season, and didn't play at all in the back half of the season. At 31 years old there can't be much time left, so even though this trade was made with the future in mind it has worked out short term as well.

Verdict - WIN


Trade 2 - With New Delhi Tigers
Gave: Daniel Cross
Received: Matt Buntine and Jared Polec

Stats
Matt Buntine (D)
Games for Pumas: 1, 108.00 avg
Games for Jaguars: 2, 49.00 avg
Jared Polec (M)
Games for Pumas: Nil
Games for Jaguars: 1, 32.00 avg

Daniel Cross (M)
Games: 13, 88.46 avg

Summary
What a fairy tale it turned out to be for Buntine, who made just the one senior appearance for the Pumas this season... That being in the grand final where he played out of his skin, was named in the best and picked up a winners medal. Polec struggled with injuries this year and could manage just the one reserve game for the year. This trade was made with the future in mind considering Buntine just turned 20 and Polec is 21 compared to Cross who is 30. In saying that Cross did have a solid year, although it was down on his year at the Pumas. Averaged 97.6 at the Pumas, which dropped to 88 this year and considering the impressive form of my midfielders this year he may not have played many games for us anyway. Two exciting prospects for one past his best player is alright in my book.

Verdict - WIN


Trade 3 - With Pacific Islanders
Gave: Jarryd Blair and Pick 71
Received: Andrew Walker and Pick 26 (on traded to Tokyo)

Stats
Andrew Walker (F/M)
Games for Pumas: 20, 106.85 avg

Jarryd Blair (F/M)
Games: 21, 76.86 avg

Summary
TRADE OF THE YEAR! 30 points per game difference in averages. Nothing more needs to be said.

Verdict - WIN

Trade 4 - With Tokyo Samurai
Gave: Steven Motlop and Picks 26 and 35
Received: Jack Gunston

Stats
Jack Gunston (F)
Games for Pumas: 15, 85.60 avg
Games for Jaguars: 4, 70.25 avg

Steven Motlop (F)
Games: 21, 81.90 avg

Summary
A very impressive year by Gunston, which was met by a just as impressive year by Motlop. Both players are going to be superstars and it would be great to have both, but since I can only have one I'm very happy to have Gunston at the Pumas. Will get better and better and will always be a forward, whereas Motlop runs the risk of becoming a mid in the future I fear.

Verdict - WIN


Trade 5 - With Moscow Spetsnaz
Gave: Josh Growden
Received: Pick 42 (on traded to Cairo)

Stats
Josh Growden (F/M)
Games: Nil

Summary
Growden didn't play a game this year and was delisted at the end of season. Pick 42 was traded on to Cairo and helped bring Chris Masten to the club, so looks like this is a win for the Pumas.

Verdict - WIN

Trade 6 - With Cairo Sands
Gave: Jon Griffin and Pick 42
Received: Chris Masten

Stats
Chris Masten (M)
Games for Pumas: 18, 96.84 avg

Jon Griffin (R)
Games: 7, 90.14 avg

Summary
Masten played every game he was available for this year and was very impressive finishing in the top 10 in the best and fairest count. Griffin started off the season well, but unfortunately for him did his ACL in round 7 and missed the rest of the season. For this reason it looks like Pumas win this trade as well.

Verdict - WIN

Trade 7 - With London Royals
Gave: Dan Hannebery, Zach Tuohy and Pick 89
Received: Stephen Hill and Brad Sheppard

Stats
Stephen Hill (M)
Games for Pumas: 9, 84.89 avg
Games for Jaguars: 6, 85.00 avg
Brad Sheppard (M)
Games for Pumas: Nil
Games for Jaguars: 13, 50.31 avg

Dan Hannebery (M)
Games: 21, 95.33 avg
Zach Tuohy (D)
Games: 22, 64.77 avg

Summary
Hill's form fluctuated throughout the year and was in and out of the senior side, unfortunately missing out on the grand final win despite playing in the 2 finals before that. Sheppard didn't manage to get a game for the Pumas all season and has since been traded after just 1 year at the club. Hanners has flourished in London, taking his game to another level, whilst Tuohy has been solid.

Verdict - LOSS

Trade 8 - With Wellington Warriors
Gave: Rory Thompson
Received: P31 (selected Mason Wood)

Stats
Mason Wood (F)
Games: Nil

Rory Thompson (D)
Games: 21, 69.19 avg

Although a solid season by Thompson it wouldn't have been good enough to play many games for the Pumas, but signs are promising that he will continue to improve. Wood on the other hand didn't play a game after getting injured, hopefully he will make some appearances next year, most likely for the Jaguars.

Verdict - TIE


Trade 9 - With New York Revolution
Gave: Pick 32 (New York selected Marco Paparone)
Received: Shane Kersten

Stats
Shane Kersten (F)
Games: Nil

Marco Paparone (F/M)
Games: 5, 41.00 avg

Summary
Kersten didn't make an appearance this year, but signs are very promising and we are expecting big things from him next year. New York used pick 32 to select fellow forward Marco Paparone who played 5 games this year. Surprisingly he was delisted by the Revolution and was picked up by the Pumas with pick 33 in this years draft. Considering both players are now at the Pumas, this must be considered a win.

Verdict - WIN

All trades now analysed, and overall quite successful. 9 players were brought in during the trading period, and of those 5 of them played in the grand final win. Very happy :)

WHY DOES EVERYONE THINK WE'RE 'CARIO' GOD DAMN IT?  >:(

But yeah, think 42 was our first pick in the draft with which we selected Matt Jones who played a few games and was serviceable for Alexandria. Please correct me if I'm wrong. Still gutted we traded Masten tbh, but I wasn't around for that.  :P

Did you say Caro Nigey? The Caro Sands :o :o.

Quote from: Hellopplz on December 22, 2013, 11:48:03 PM
Did you say Caro Nigey? The Caro Sands :o :o.

Cairo mate, Cairo.  :P

Quote from: NigeyS on December 22, 2013, 11:44:50 PM
WHY DOES EVERYONE THINK WE'RE 'CARIO' GOD DAMN IT?  >:(

Haha sorry, clearly just a typo ;)

Quote from: CrowsFan on December 23, 2013, 12:17:02 AM

Quote from: NigeyS on December 22, 2013, 11:44:50 PM
WHY DOES EVERYONE THINK WE'RE 'CARIO' GOD DAMN IT?  >:(

Haha sorry, clearly just a typo ;)

That Worlds Official Rule Book thingo seems to agree with your version.  :P

End of Season Player Performance Assessment - Part 1

1. Matthew Wright (F/M)
Games for Pumas: 10, 70.50 avg
Games for Jaguars: 5, 79.60 avg

Gato Grande Votes: 4 (=18th)
Gatinho Votes: 8 (=4th)

It was a disappointing year for Wright on a personal level. After a superb 2012 he crashed back down to earth in '13, struggling for form he was in and out of the side. He started to show some form towards the end of the season and fought back in to the side late on and played in the first final against Mexico City. However an underwhelming performance meant Wright was unsighted for the rest of the year. Hopefully a bounce back to form next year is on the cards.

2. Bachar Houli (D)
Games for Pumas: 19, 90.95 avg

Gato Grande Votes: 34 (6th)

A fantastic year for Houli, who was the rock of the defense this year. Upped his average from 2012 by 10 points and performed admirably, evidenced by his 6th placing in the best and fairest. More of the same again next year please Bachar!

3. Brendan Whitecross (F/M)
Games for Pumas: 4, 61.50 avg
Games for Jaguars: 6, 61.66 avg

Gato Grande Votes: 1 (21st)
Gatinho Votes: 5 (=8th)

A tough year for WhiteX who started the year in the rehab group after tearing his ACL last year. Fitness was lacking it appeared as his performances weren't up to the standard he set in 2012. He did play in the grand final and so has a medal around his neck. Unfortunately he has again ruptured his ACL and so will miss at least the first half of next season too.

4. Jarryd Roughead (F/R)
Games for Pumas: 21, 96.29 avg

Gato Grande Votes: 36 (5th)

A great year again for Roughy as he played every single game for the Pumas. Formed a brilliant partnership up front with Walker that had other teams unsure how to defend against them. One of the best forwards in the game, we are very happy Roughy is a Puma.

5. Gary Ablett (M)
Games for Pumas: 20, 127.95

Gato Grande Votes: 53 (2nd)

What more can be said about one of the true greats of the game that hasn't been said already? Ablett was once again unstoppable this year as he claimed back-to-back Jim Stynes medals as the leagues best player. A small blip towards the end of the season threatened to derail the year when he lost the captaincy, however he showed his true champion spirit by being best on ground in the grand final to win the Ayres/McLeod Medal.

6. Rory Sloane (M)
Games for Pumas: 20, 107.65 avg

Gato Grande Votes: 27 (7th)

I love this kid. Simple as that! A brilliant year that culminated in being named captain in the prelim final against the 'Dillos where he lead us to a 1 point win. Already is a star, but could still go to the next level!

7. Jason Porplyzia (F)
Games for Pumas: 7, 51.71 avg
Games for Jaguars: 8, 62.00 avg

Gato Grande Votes: Nil
Gatinho Votes: 7 (=6th)

Just like Wright it was a disappointing year for Porplyzia in the forward line. A big drop off in output this year saw Jason become surplus to requirements and as such spent most of the year playing for the reserves. Improvement is required next year if he wants to remain a Puma.

8. Sam Jacobs (R)
Games for Pumas: 15, 84.00 avg
Games for Jaguars: 6, 88.33 avg

Gato Grande Votes: 12 (11th)
Gatinho Votes: 5 (=8th)

After being the number 1 ruck in '12 Jacobs took a back seat this year as Minson stole the show. Often forgotten about this year Jacobs worked hard and performed solidly in the 15 games he played. Formed a deadly ruck partnership with Minson, which will hopefully continue next year.

9. Scott McMahon (D)
Games for Pumas: 7, 76.57 avg
Games for Jaguars: 4, 57.75 avg

Gato Grande Votes: 7 (14th)
Gatinho Votes: Nil

A solid year unfortunately ended early due to injury, which resulted in some other defenders stepping up in McMahon's absence. He knows he will have to train hard to win his spot back next season.

10. David Zaharakis (M)
Games for Pumas: 15, 91.53 avg
Games for Jaguars: 3, 66.67

Gato Grande Votes: 11 (12th)
Gatinho Votes: 3 (=14th)

Zaha started the year brilliantly playing in the midfield after making the move from the forward line. However a back injury picked up late in the season saw his output drop, which unfortunately meant he lost his spot in the side for the grand final. This heart break will spur him on to greater heights next season.

11. Mitch Duncan (M)
Games for Pumas: 12, 80.42 avg
Games for Jaguars: 9, 83.78

Gato Grande Votes: 4 (=18th)
Gatinho Votes: 16 (WINNER)

After winning the Gatinho in 2012 big things were expected from Duncan in 2013, and he did not disappoint. Mitch spent the majority of the first half of the season toiling hard in the reserves again, but managed to play the last 9 games of the for the Pumas and was part of the premiership winning side. Despite just playing 9 of the 18 Jaguar games he managed to win the Gatinho for a second year running by a massive 7 votes. Fans were greatly looking forward to how he would go in 2014, but news surfaced that he had been traded to the New Delhi Tigers early on, a victim of the clubs lack of forward depth. We wish him well for the future.

12. Will Minson (R)
Games for Pumas: 21, 115.19 avg

Gato Grande Votes: 61 (WINNER)

What a year it was for Big Will! Along with Roughy he was the only Puma to play every single game this season and he did not disappoint! Minson went from strength to strength this season and by the end of it was regarded as the number 1 ruck in the world. Will capped off a brilliant year by captaining the side in the grand final and then won the Gato Grande, 8 votes clear of heavy favourite Gary Ablett. The only disappointment was somehow not being named in the All-Worlds XV. Hopefully Will can backup this brilliant season again next year!

13. Beau Waters (D)
Games for Pumas: 6, 85.50 avg

Gato Grande Votes: 9 (13th)

A tough year for hardnut Waters, as he succumbed to injury and managed just 6 games for the year. Started off strongly, but some niggling injuries made him miss a couple of games here and there before eventually being wrapped in cotton wool for the rest of the season. Hopefully a clean bill of health awaits him next year as he is vital in defense for us.

14. Hamish Hartlett (D/M)
Games for Pumas: 19, 91.37 avg

Gato Grande Votes: 39 (4th)

Hartlett started the year like a house on fire taking the comp by storm, before settling down a little throughout the middle of the season. His rollercoaster season finished early after he stupidly picked up a suspension and missed the last 2 games of the year and so was bitterly disappointed he didn't play in the grand final. 4th place in the Gato Grande shows just how good his year was, and hopefully he will improve again next year and find some consistency to his game.

15. Mitch Wallis (M)
Games for Pumas: 7, 76.86 avg
Games for Jaguars: 10, 66.90 avg

Gato Grande Votes: Nil
Gatinho Votes: 9 (=2nd)

A fall back to earth this year for 2012 rising star winner managing just 7 games for the Pumas after 16 in his first season at the club. Wallis struggled to set the same pace he had in 2012 with clubs paying him more attention and so after playing 4 of the first 5 games of the season he will exiled back to the reserves. Wallis worked hard and earned himself a recall to the club in the first week of the finals, going on to play the following two weeks as well, but was left out for the grand final. It was a trying year for young Mitch, but we expect him to push through next year and show why he was voted the rising star.

16. Brad Sheppard (M)
Games for Pumas: Nil
Games for Jaguars: 11, 47.91 avg

Gatinho Votes: 3 (=14th)

Not the year we were expecting from Shep. He arrived at the club full of excitement, however he just could not find any form in the reserves to warrant a call up to the Pumas side. A tough chat was had at the end of the season where he was told he was surplus to requirements and was promptly traded to Pacifc. We wish him all the best and hope he can play to the ability we had hoped he would here.

17. Stephen Hill (M)
Games for Pumas: 9, 84.89 avg
Games for Jaguars: 6, 85.99 avg

Gato Grande Votes: 5 (=15th)
Gatinho Votes: 7 (=6th)

An up and down year for Hill who started the season off in the Pumas, however a couple of early disappointments saw him shipped back to the reserves before an injury put him out of action for a month. Came back again through the reserves before fighting his way back in to the Pumas side putting in some solid performances before unfortunately being dropped for the grand final. Another player who we are expecting great things next year.

18. Andrew Walker (F/M)
Games for Pumas: 20, 106.85 avg

Gato Grande Votes: 47 (3rd)

What a trade it was to bring Walker to the club. Walker was the shining light up forward consistently putting in superb performances and winning many games off his own boot. As he was for most of the season he was the best forward in the grand final, and was recognised for his great year by winning the leagues MVP! Despite the brilliant year a move down back beckons for Skywalker as we hope he can lead the young group down there. Also won the Pumas best first year player at the club award.

19. Ryan Harwood (D)
Games for Pumas: 8, 70.00 avg
Games for Jaguars: 4, 76.00 avg

Gato Grande Votes: 5 (=15th)
Gatinho Votes: 4 (=12th)

A solid year for this promising young defender. Spent the first half of the year on the sidelines, but came in to the Pumas side in round 12 and did not look back. Big things are expecting from Ryan next year.

20. Chris Masten (M)
Games for Pumas: 18, 96.83 avg

Gato Grande Votes: 16 (10th)

A very impressive debut year for Masten at the Pumas. Was a mainstay in the middle of the park along with Ablett and Sloane and went from strength to strength. His improvement was a large reason the Pumas were considered to have one of the strongest midfields going around.

21. Matt Buntine (D)
Games for Pumas: 1, 108.00 avg
Games for Jaguars: 2, 49.00 avg

Gato Grande Votes: 3 (20th)
Gatinho Votes: Nil

A Cinderella story if there ever was one. Matt had played just 2 games at reserve level for the year after being traded from New Delhi, before an unexpected call up to the Pumas side for the grand final. The most intense setting ever to make a debut! But Matt did not disappoint playing as if he was a seasoned veteran rather than an inexperienced rookie. Doesn't matter what he does in his career now he has already made history.

22. Jack Gunston (F)
Games for Pumas: 15, 85.60 avg
Games for Jaguars: 4, 70.25 avg

Gato Grande Votes: 17 (9th)
Gatinho Votes: 5 (=8th)

A superb year for Gunston as he cemented his place in the Pumas forward line. Often forgotten about with Roughy and Walker running around next to him, Jack got on with what he was told to do and boy did he do it well. Tapered off a little torwards the end of the season, but put in a big effort in the grand final. Just another one of the promising youngsters at the Pumas and we expect further improvement next year.

23. Devon Smith (F/M)
Games for Pumas: 8, 67.75 avg
Games for Jaguars: 9, 75.11 avg

Gato Grande Votes: 5 (=15th)
Gatinho Votes: 9 (=2nd)

Another year of improvement for Devon saw him play 8 games for the Pumas. Looked impressive in some, however was a passenger for some others. More consistency is needed next year if he wants to light up the Estadio do Pumas on a regular basis.

24. Jared Polec (M)
Games for Pumas: Nil
Games for Jaguars: 1, 32.00 avg

Gatinho Votes: Nil

A disappointing first year for Polec at the Pumas. Playing just the one game for the Jaguars before injuring himself and not being able to get another game for the season. Been training extremely well during the pre-season so far so should find some better opportunities next year.

End of Season Player Performance Assessment - Part 2
25. Taylor Adams (M)
Games for Pumas: 10, 76.60 avg
Games for Jaguars: 5, 73.80 avg

Gato Grande Votes: Nil
Gatinho Votes: 8 (=4th)

Despite not getting a vote in his 10 games for the Pumas it was a great debut year for the kid. Turning 20 after the season finished not many teenagers can claim to have played 10 games for the world champions. This kid is going to be a star and we are very excited about what he is bringing to the table.

26. Tony Armstrong (D)
Games for Pumas: 1, 46.00 avg
Games for Jaguars: 5, 52.60 avg

Gato Grande Votes: Nil
Gatinho Votes: 4 (=12th)

Not the year we were expecting from Tony, only managing one game for the Pumas. Another one who is close to the end of his time at the club. Will need to put in a lot of effort next year to fight for a spot in the side with many defenders having jumped ahead in the priority list.

27. Liam Sumner (M)
Games for Pumas: Nil
Games for Jaguars: 5, 48.40 avg

Gatinho Votes: 2 (=16th)

Showed some glimpses of the talent he has in the reserves, but didn't get on the park enough to make an impact. A move to the forward line next year means he has a chance at getting more opportunities. Needs to train hard to force his way in.

28. Dylan Roberton (D)
Games for Pumas: 17, 77.18 avg
Games for Jaguars: 2, 63.50 avg

Gato Grande Votes: 18 (8th)
Gatinho Votes: 2 (=16th)

What a difference a year makes! Dylan went from playing just 4 games in 2012 to playing 17 this year and becoming a vital cog in the Pumas defense. Was rightly named the most improved at the club this year. Started the year off with a bang, but tired towards the end. Hopefully another preseason will see him maintain his high level of performance all season next year.

29. Simon White (D)
Games for Pumas: Nil
Games for Jaguars: 9, 58.56 avg

Gatinho Votes: 5 (=8th)

Despite this time last year being billed as a player ready to take the next step it just didn't eventuate for Simon in 2013. He did play some impressive games for the Jaguars, but with the defense going strongly for the Pumas there just wasn't a chance of him getting a game. Unfortunately broke his neck late on and couldn't even be considered for the finals when a lot of defenders were missing. Hopefully he can come back next year and provide solid depth coverage for our defenders. Never going to be a world beater, but a handy squad player.

30. Seb Tape (D)
Games for Pumas: 2, 59.00 avg
Games for Jaguars: 3, 57.00 avg

Gato Grande Votes: Nil
Gatinho Votes: 1 (=20th)

Seb returned from an ACL injury midway through the season and due to a lack of fit defenders was thrown straight in the deep end. Performed solidly on return, but could only manage one more game. At the end of the season Tape was traded to Moscow, who then traded him to Pacific where he joined fellow ex Puma Brad Sheppard. However in a surprising turn of evens Tape was delisted and had to go in to the draft we he was finally picked up by Cairo. Four different clubs in the space of a month or two can certainly be tough on a young player, but we wish him all the best.

31. Alex Silvagni (D)
Games for Pumas: Nil
Games for Jaguars: 8, 50.88

Gatinho Votes: 2 (=16th)

A disappointing season for Alex, who personally had been hoping he could force his way in to the Pumas side, however his up and down form in the reserves meant he was too much of a risk to select at any point. A great leader off the pitch towards the young players he has been given another year to prove he has what it takes at the top level.

32. Brett O'Hanlon (F)
Games for Pumas: Nil
Games for Jaguars: Nil

O'Hanlon didn't manage to get himself on the park at all this year. A lot of hard work is required if he wants to even play for the Jaguars next year, but he is still young so rapid improvement can happen.

33. Shane Kersten (F)
Games for Pumas: Nil
Games for Jaguars: Nil

Another youngster who didn't play at all this year. But Kersten trained hard all year and we expect him to make an impact next season. Found the intensity of Puma training a lot more ferocious than that at New York in his first year, so now understands what is required of him if he wants to make it.

34. Jono O'Rourke
Games for Pumas: Nil
Games for Jaguars: 1, 14.00 avg

Gatinho Votes: Nil

Our first selection in last years draft was a little overawed this year and spent the majority of the year in the developmental local side. Flashes of brilliance in training mean we're not disappointed with his year and hope next year he can push for more opportunities.

35. Luke Lowden (R)
Games for Pumas: Nil
Games for Jaguars: Nil

Two years Luke has been a Puma, but still is yet to play a game for even the reserves. Works hard in training though, so has been given another year to prove his worth to the team.

36. Mason Wood (F)

Games for Pumas: Nil
Games for Jaguars: Nil

The Pumas other pick in last years International Draft had a similar story to O'Rourke. Looked a little out of his depth on first arrival and spent the year in the local league before getting injured. A promising player we hope to see him more next season.

37. Alex Forster (D)

Games for Pumas: Nil
Games for Jaguars: Nil

Sadly it just wasn't meant to be for Alex. No games in 2 years and so was delisted by the club. We've given him the opportunity to play for the developmental side next season in the hope he can find the form that we know he has, with the view of possibly redrafting him in a year or two if he can show that ability.

38. Majak Daw (R)
Games for Pumas: Nil
Games for Jaguars: 6, 51.83 avg

Gatinho Votes: 2 (=16th)

The long awaited debut of Daw happened this year and he did not disappoint in the reserves, showing his extreme athleticism and flair. Unfortunately the year was ended early by a PCL injury, but hopefully he can push for a senior spot next year.

39. Kyle Martin (M)
Games for Pumas: 3, 76.00 avg

Gato Grande Votes: Nil

Not many players go from getting drafted from the local leagues to making their debut in WXV without playing a single reserves game, but that's exactly what Kyle Martin did. Martin played 3 games for the Pumas in the middle of the season before being dropped and not getting another game. But he showed in that time he is one hell of a player and if given more opportunities will surely be one to watch.

40. Ariel Steinberg (D/F)
Games for Pumas: Nil
Games for Jaguars: Nil

Ariel ends his 2 years at the clubs with zero games to his name in either senior or reserves. Unfortunately he just couldn't cut it at the Pumas who delisted him, but was given a lifeline by Moscow who have brought him on to their rookie list for the upcoming season.

41. Andrew Raines (M)
Games for Pumas: Nil
Games for Jaguars: 15, 42.8 avg

Gatinho Votes: 1 (=20th)

Despite a constant member of the Jaguars, Andrew could not manage to make a senior appearance for the Pumas. Was deemed an irrelevant player and was traded to the Tigers during the recent trade window, where he will provide depth for a young side in need of some senior experience.

42. Aidan Riley (M)
Games for Pumas: Nil
Games for Jaguars: 2, 31.50

Gatinho Votes: Nil

Riley managed just the two games for the year after he unfortunately broke his leg at the very start of the second match. The coach had seen enough in training and his first game however to promote him to the senior list ahead of the new season. Will have to work hard to make the most of this opportunity.

43. Peter Yagmoor (D)
Games for Pumas: Nil
Games for Jaguars: Nil

Despite playing 2 games for the Jags in 2012, Yagmoor couldn't manage a game this year after being moved to the rookie list. A new environment was needed for Peter who was delisted and then picked up by Cape Town with the second last pick in the rookie draft. Hopefully a new scene will help him out.


44. Ben Newton (F)
Games for Pumas: Nil
Games for Jaguars: Nil

Despite not playing a game Ben has been retained for a second year on the rookie list. He knows that he needs to perform next year or he will be out of a job with rules stipulating a player can only be on a rookie list for 2 years. Has been working hard in training so far.

45. Haiden Schloithe (F/M)
Games for Pumas: Nil
Games for Jaguars: Nil

A poor year for Schloithe who battled form and injury, so did not manage to get a game outside of the developmental league. It appears his footballing dream may be over at this point in time after being delisted and not nominating himself for the draft. We wish him all the best with whatever he decides to do in the future.

Love it cf!

Great work CF, would love  to do one for Beijing if I can find the time!

Thanks guys. Found myself with some spare time so thought I would run through my list of players :)

http://www.news.com.au/sport/afl/west-coast-vicecaptain-beau-waters-suffers-another-setback-to-injured-shoulder/story-fndv8w9k-1226794924357

tough start for the reining premiers

Meh, we've got Buntine :P

Waters didn't play in our last 8 matches, and only 6 for the season and we still won ;)

Give Waters to your allied-youth team NDT! :P

Unfortunately at this point in time you don't really have anyone I'm interested in ;)

Oi Honey Badger, give us CrowsFan back.  >:(

Quote from: NigeyS on January 10, 2014, 10:02:31 AM
Oi Honey Badger, give us CrowsFan back.  >:(

What have you done CF?! >:(

Quote from: Purple 77 on January 10, 2014, 10:06:50 AM

Quote from: NigeyS on January 10, 2014, 10:02:31 AM
Oi Honey Badger, give us CrowsFan back.  >:(

What have you done CF?! >:(

Apparently...

(http://fc06.deviantart.net/fs70/f/2011/199/5/e/honey_badger_don__t_care_by_gatorvenom-d40h28z.jpg)

The Sao Paulo Honey Badgers?  :o

Quote from: Purple 77 on January 10, 2014, 10:06:50 AM

Quote from: NigeyS on January 10, 2014, 10:02:31 AM
Oi Honey Badger, give us CrowsFan back.  >:(

What have you done CF?! >:(

Sorry guys the kind hearted CrowsFan is gone and been relpaced by the don't-take-no-shower-from-anyone Honey Badger :P

Spot on Nige, but we will remain the Pumas. Honey Badgers are from Africa ;)

Relocate to the best continent in the world.  ;)

I hear Namibia is nice.

I'm sure you could get used to the Windhoek Honey Badgers.  :o

Name Change Causes Big Stir

As is the Brazilian tradition of sports people to change/shorten their name, and following the suit of current Brazillian footballer Heritier Lumumba the head coach of the Sao Paulo Pumas has officially changed his name from CrowsFan to Honey Badger. This abrupt and quite shocking change has caused a massive stir throughout the WXV community with many wondering why he did it. This reporter cannot clarify the reasoning behind the name change, but can confirm that he is loving all the Brazilian ladies calling him Honey... ;)

No respect for the guy writing the record book :/

Booooooo!

Quote from: kilbluff1985 on January 16, 2014, 03:48:16 PM
Booooooo!

Well that's just rude. The Pumas were going to go in to the round 10 match against the Samurai playing it as just another game, but with this disrespect shown to the coach they are now looking forward to giving them a big thumping! Word of advice... bring some ice packs!

Quote from: Honey Badger on January 16, 2014, 05:09:09 PM

Quote from: kilbluff1985 on January 16, 2014, 03:48:16 PM
Booooooo!

Well that's just rude. The Pumas were going to go in to the round 10 match against the Samurai playing it as just another game, but with this disrespect shown to the coach they are now looking forward to giving them a big thumping! Word of advice... bring some ice packs!

You'll bring the Honey :P

Can you ensure you bring some Royal Honey when you play the Royals.

So we are actually going to resort to making jokes about bringing honey now?

Quote from: Honey Badger on January 16, 2014, 10:27:35 PM
So we are actually going to resort to making jokes about bringing honey now?

Not sure about the others, but I won't be badgering you about the name anymore.  ;)

Quote from: Honey Badger on January 16, 2014, 10:27:35 PM
So we are actually going to resort to making jokes about bringing honey now?

i don't want your honey honey i want your love

lame i know lol

Quote from: Honey Badger on January 16, 2014, 10:27:35 PM
So we are actually going to resort to making jokes about bringing honey now?

Any enemy of the Puma's is an enemy of the Tigers. #BigCats #NDT-SPPalliance

Samurai eat cats for dinner :)

Haha that is probably true so I'll pay that :P

Quote from: Honey Badger on January 16, 2014, 10:27:35 PM
So we are actually going to resort to making jokes about bringing honey now?

Sorry HB but could not resist the pun on Honey and Royals.  Apologies if it offended,  And see I am slowly getting used to HB.

CrowsFan ;)

Round 1 - Pumas Burnt by Scorching Suns

Sao Paulo Pumas (21.12.138) lost to Mexico City Suns (24.13.157)

Best
Sao Paulo: G Ablett jnr, Ja Roughead, S Jacobs, R Sloane
Mexico City: B Goddard, N Riewoldt, A Sandilands, J Bartel, B Vince, B Ebert

It was billed as the match of the round. A rematch of last years epic grand final in the first round of the season, played on neutral turf. What more could you ask for? Sadly you could have asked the Pumas to show up to make it a contest. Fresh from the preseason grand final win over the Tigers just last week it could be argued that the Pumas were too cocky, too brash and certainly too complacent against a strong Suns side that was out for revenge.

Insipid, uninspiring, and lackluster are how you could describe the Puma outfit this week, putting in a miserable performance, one of their worst in the history of the comp. The Suns on the other hand oozed class, barely putting a foot wrong all game to come away with a comfortable 19 point win. There were some positives however from the match; Ablett proved he is still the number 1 player in the game and will again be vital to the Pumas chances, whilst Roughy and Gunston demonstrated their forward partnership is going to blossom. Finally Sam Jacobs looks ready to fight for the number 1 ruck spot against last years best and fairest Minson, who was missing from this game after an interrupted preseason. However the negatives far outweighed the good. The whole defense was a shambles, which was made worse by the fact that Walker picked up a 1 match suspension and so we will be without him against the tough Spetsnaz next week. And the midfielders just couldn't get enough of the ball to cause problems to the opposition.

A tough few weeks coming up for the Pumas, which will show just what they are really made of. Is the premiership hangover in full effect already?

Reserves
Rio de Janeiro Jaguars (15.7.97) defeated Mexico City Suns (13.12.90)

Best
Rio de Janeiro: J Polec
Mexico City: M Baguley, T Curren

Some more positive news from the reserves after a 7 point win against the Suns. Jared Polec is looking like a new man this year after being hampered with injuries last season and was best on ground today. It will be tough for him to crack in to a strong Puma midfield, but consistent performances may see him get his chance early on. New recruits to the club Paparone and Stringer put in solid efforts in their debuts for the Jaguars, and both could be pushing for that final spot in the forward line if they continue to work hard during training.

Round 2 - Premiership Flag Unveiling Soured by Defeat

Sao Paulo Pumas (20.13.133) lost to Moscow Spetsnaz (20.20.140)

Best
Sao Paulo: H Hartlett, G Ablett, C Masten, D Smith, B Houli, R Sloane, S Hill
Moscow: S May, C Ward, D Martin, N Naitanui, L Dunn, T Vickery, J Frawley

It was the first home match of the season after winning the premiership last year and a chance to show off the trophy to the Puma faithful. Sadly that was the only positive from the weekend after the Pumas limped to one of their worst scores in WXV history, losing to Moscow by 7 points. Despite some admiral performances by the senior members in the team there were some shockers by others with skill errors for all to see. It's a worrying beginning to the season and hopefully the form will pick up soon, but at the moment the Pumas appear to be toothless, with the coach scratching his head to try and figure out where the improvement will come from. Jake Stringer made his debut for the Pumas in this match and showed some promise, but has competition from a few players to try and keep his spot in the team.

We move on to Berlin next week, where last time these two teams met (also in round 3 last year) a 314 point beauty ensued. The Pumas picked up the win 160-154, but look a far cry of emulating such highs at the moment. All we can hope for is a marked improvement from the first two rounds.


Reserves
Rio de Janeiro Jaguars (11.5.71) defeated Siberian Wolverines (7.3.45)

Best
Rio de Janeiro: W Minson, J Polec
Siberia: D Fletcher, C Sinclair

The Jaguars continue to impress despite the failings of the Pumas. Will Minson was inspiring and is ready to move back into the Pumas side to add some much needed strength in the middle, whilst Polec was again impressive and is edging ever closer to making his debut for the Pumas after being at the club for just over a season. It may even be this week against the Brewers.

Berlin are missing a bunch of players -including Fyfe, Steven and Crouch - leaving Wells as their big mid. Lose to them and alarm bells will sound!

Meanwhile the Buenos Aires Armadillos are watching from the distance praying the Pumas go 0-3

Quote from: ossie85 on April 04, 2014, 02:05:37 PM
Berlin are missing a bunch of players -including Fyfe, Steven and Crouch - leaving Wells as their big mid. Lose to them and alarm bells will sound!

It would be a bloody miracle if my personnel can win me this match.  :-\

Quote from: Nails on April 04, 2014, 02:09:50 PM
Meanwhile the Buenos Aires Armadillos are watching from the distance praying the Pumas go 0-3

I'm sure there are many who are hoping that. On the bright side better draft picks for me 8)

Quote from: ossie85 on April 04, 2014, 02:05:37 PM
Berlin are missing a bunch of players -including Fyfe, Steven and Crouch - leaving Wells as their big mid. Lose to them and alarm bells will sound!

Well I'm sure they can name a defense. White survived the Friday arvo cull, but still waiting for word on Silvagni. Apparently he is still in Perth, yet named to be playing tonight in Melbourne... ???

Should give my congratulations to GARY ABLETT JNR

Who has just become the first player to cross the magical 10,000 point barrier (10,288) points in the last round. Very comfortably in front, but Pendles not too far back.

Ablett   Gary jnr   10288   Sao Paulo
Pendlebury   Scott   9153   Toronto
Swan   Dane   8243   Buenos Aires
Selwood   Joel   7434   Cape Town/Dublin
Jack   Kieran   7035   Tokyo
Stanton   Brent   6601   London
Rockliff   Tom   6293   New Delhi/Pacific/Dublin
Deledio   Brett   6087   Seoul/Wellington
Cox   Dean   5986   New York/Buenos Aires
Kennedy   Josh P   5933   Cape Town

Does that include Captaincy points?

Quote from: Torpedo10 on April 09, 2014, 03:31:02 PM
Does that include Captaincy points?

Yup

Quote from: ossie85 on April 09, 2014, 04:04:46 PM

Quote from: Torpedo10 on April 09, 2014, 03:31:02 PM
Does that include Captaincy points?

Yup

Which is why Stanton is on the list.

Round 3 - Pumas Prove They Still Have Bite

Berlin Brewers (18.14.122) lost to Sao Paulo Pumas (23.18.156)

Best
Berlin: D Jackson, R Conca, M Hibberd, D Wells
Sao Paulo: G Ablett, R Sloane, Ja Roughead, W Minson, J Gunston, H Hartlett, M Wright

An inspired performance by captain Gary Ablett has lead the Pumas to an impressive 34 point victory over the Berlin Brewers. After a disappointing opening two rounds there were question marks over the capabilities of the Pumas this year, but this performance has put the rest of the competition on notice that the Pumas aren't done yet. In a must win match the Pumas made four changes from the previous round with Sam Jacobs, Jake Stringer and David Zaharakis all omitted whilst Roberton missed through injury. In to the side came club best and fairest Will Minson and league MVP Andrew Walker, as well as Jared Polec and Marco Paparone who were both making their debuts for the club. Polec battled with injuries last year and only managed 1 game for the Jaguars, but has impressed so far this year, whilst Paparone was picked up in the draft last year after being delisted by the Revolution after just one season.

There were many fine performances all over the ground, with perhaps White the only disappointment. On a sour note Chris Masten picked up an injury and will miss the next 2-3 rounds, whilst Devon Smith has been suspended for a round. Hopefully this match was not a one off and the Pumas can replicate this form over the next few rounds, starting first against Toronto in the next round.

Reserves
Rhineland Rum-Runners (7.5.47) lost to Rio de Janeiro Jaguars (9.7.61)

Best
Rhineland: Nil
Rio de Janeiro: S Jacobs

Another match another win for the Jaguars who are now 3-0 for the season. Despite such a low scoring affair Sam Jacobs responded terrifically to being dropped to the reserves by putting in a man of the match display, and find himself wearing Puma colours very soon.

Great read,  I'm backing a Wolf epic this week

Round 4 - Back to Back Wins Puts Pumas Back in the Eight

Toronto Wolves (22.15.147) lost to Sao Paulo Pumas (23.16.154)

Best
Toronto: S Pendlebury, L Adams, B Cunnington, J White, M Johnson
Sao Paulo: G Ablett, J Gunston, R Sloane, S Jacobs, M Wright, B Houli

The Pumas are back in the eight after a solid performance against a strong Toronto side lead by superstar Scott Pendlebury. Despite missing Chris Masten and Devon Smith the Pumas performed admirably to record their second win of the season, putting them at 2-2. Ablett was brilliant as usual, whilst his understudy Sloane is fast becoming one of the games elite players. Gunston and Wright were dominant up forward, Houli dynamic down back and Jacobs bossed the game from siren to siren. Harwood made a welcome return to the side and Polec continued his impressive change of fortune this year.

Overall it was a great performance, and great to back up last weeks game to show that the Pumas still have strength despite a poor start to the season. Next week Sao Paulo travel to New York to take on the 5th placed Revolution. Win that and the season will be looking a lot brighter than it was just one week ago.


Reserves
Toronto Wolves (11.6.72) defeated Rio de Janeiro Jaguars (4.5.29)

Best
Toronto: J Lisle
Rio de Janeiro: Nil

The Jaguars tasted their first defeat of the season this round, going down to a strong Wolves reserves team. The team was struggling to get players on to the side, but should be bolstered with the returns of a few from suspensions to look for that next win.

In other news Pumas thanking their lucky stars that they weren't fixtured against Dillos this week and were lucky to have Wolves.

Quote from: Nails on April 13, 2014, 11:32:07 PM
In other news Pumas thanking their lucky stars that they weren't fixtured against Dillos this week and were lucky to have Wolves.

Could say the same thing for last round. In fact I will...

Dillos thanking their lucky stars that they weren't fixtured against Pumas this week and were lucky to have Wolves.

We'll just have to see when we play in round 17 ;)

Not worth sacrificing the reserves perfect record for a league win imo

Quote from: Honey Badger on April 13, 2014, 11:34:37 PM

Quote from: Nails on April 13, 2014, 11:32:07 PM
In other news Pumas thanking their lucky stars that they weren't fixtured against Dillos this week and were lucky to have Wolves.

Could say the same thing for last round. In fact I will...

Dillos thanking their lucky stars that they weren't fixtured against Pumas this week and were lucky to have Wolves.

We'll just have to see when we play in round 17 ;)

Toronto Wolves - the team to play when scoring just enough is good enough.

Round 5 - Pumas Continue Climb Up Ladder After New York Mauling

New York Revolution (17.11.113) lost to Sao Paulo Pumas (22.13.145)

Best
New York: T Cloke, J Macrae
Sao Paulo: G Ablett jnr, J Gunston, S Jacobs, J Polec, R Sloane, M Wright, A Walker

A dominant performance by the Pumas saw them walk away 32 point winners over the wayward Revolution. Ablett once again lead from the front and was aided by his deputy Sloane. Jacobs made it easy work for the mids winning taps at the stoppages all day, which then lead to Gunston and Wright capitalizing up front. With Zaharakis and Stringer filling in down back it was important for Walker to find the form he had last year when winning the leagues MVP, and he did just that, putting in his best performance so far this season.

The biggest positive was Jared Polec, who continues to show an amazing turn around this year after making no impact last year whatsoever. He was daunted during his first season at the club, struggling to make the transition from a poorly run New Delhi team to the tightly run Pumas. He has adapted to the playing culture this year and it is truly showing benefits. A hot tip to pick up the most improved award come the end of season.


Reserves
Reserves
Washington Rebellion (5.6.36) lost to Rio de Janeiro Jaguars (8.9.57)

Best
Washington: B Griffiths, K Kolodjashnij
Rio de Janeiro: C Masten

After missing last weeks match through injury Chris Masten had to settle for a spot in the reserves this week. A man of the match performance, leading the Jaguars to their 4th win of the season, will see him reclaim his spot in the Pumas side to face Beijing next week. Simon White and Marco Paparone were serviceable down back and up forward respectively, whilst Masten was aided by Ben Jacobs and Mitch Wallis. After winning the Rising Star in 2012 Wallis has really struggled to impose himself on the game in the following seasons, but we hope he can turn himself around and display the form which won him the medal soon enough.

Quote from: Nails on April 13, 2014, 11:44:26 PM

Quote from: Honey Badger on April 13, 2014, 11:34:37 PM

Quote from: Nails on April 13, 2014, 11:32:07 PM
In other news Pumas thanking their lucky stars that they weren't fixtured against Dillos this week and were lucky to have Wolves.

Could say the same thing for last round. In fact I will...

Dillos thanking their lucky stars that they weren't fixtured against Pumas this week and were lucky to have Wolves.

We'll just have to see when we play in round 17 ;)

Toronto Wolves - the team to play when scoring just enough is good enough.

Bit late to reply to this...but unfortunately it is true.

I do remember knocking a certain Buenos Aires side out of finals a couple years back though

Quote from: roo boys! on April 24, 2014, 10:58:27 AM

Quote from: Nails on April 13, 2014, 11:44:26 PM

Quote from: Honey Badger on April 13, 2014, 11:34:37 PM

Quote from: Nails on April 13, 2014, 11:32:07 PM
In other news Pumas thanking their lucky stars that they weren't fixtured against Dillos this week and were lucky to have Wolves.

Could say the same thing for last round. In fact I will...

Dillos thanking their lucky stars that they weren't fixtured against Pumas this week and were lucky to have Wolves.

We'll just have to see when we play in round 17 ;)

Toronto Wolves - the team to play when scoring just enough is good enough.

Bit late to reply to this...but unfortunately it is true.

I do remember knocking a certain Buenos Aires side out of finals a couple years back though

.... well, you'd remember wrong!

Quote from: ossie85 on April 24, 2014, 11:02:31 AM

Quote from: roo boys! on April 24, 2014, 10:58:27 AM

Quote from: Nails on April 13, 2014, 11:44:26 PM

Quote from: Honey Badger on April 13, 2014, 11:34:37 PM

Quote from: Nails on April 13, 2014, 11:32:07 PM
In other news Pumas thanking their lucky stars that they weren't fixtured against Dillos this week and were lucky to have Wolves.

Could say the same thing for last round. In fact I will...

Dillos thanking their lucky stars that they weren't fixtured against Pumas this week and were lucky to have Wolves.

We'll just have to see when we play in round 17 ;)

Toronto Wolves - the team to play when scoring just enough is good enough.

Bit late to reply to this...but unfortunately it is true.

I do remember knocking a certain Buenos Aires side out of finals a couple years back though

.... well, you'd remember wrong!

OH SNAP *snap *snap *snap

Nice write ups CF as usual. Polec looks to finally be over his injuries and found a spot in a team's 22, and killing it :o.

Thanks HP. Yep Polec is killing it! Certainly making my trade to get him look like it is going to pay off. Now I just need Buntine to start playing and I will have killed that trade (Cross for Polec + Buntine)! Buntine averaging 24 touches a game this season in the NEAFL, so surely will get a shot soon...

Quote from: ossie85 on April 24, 2014, 11:02:31 AM

Quote from: roo boys! on April 24, 2014, 10:58:27 AM

Quote from: Nails on April 13, 2014, 11:44:26 PM

Quote from: Honey Badger on April 13, 2014, 11:34:37 PM

Quote from: Nails on April 13, 2014, 11:32:07 PM
In other news Pumas thanking their lucky stars that they weren't fixtured against Dillos this week and were lucky to have Wolves.

Could say the same thing for last round. In fact I will...

Dillos thanking their lucky stars that they weren't fixtured against Pumas this week and were lucky to have Wolves.

We'll just have to see when we play in round 17 ;)

Toronto Wolves - the team to play when scoring just enough is good enough.

Bit late to reply to this...but unfortunately it is true.

I do remember knocking a certain Buenos Aires side out of finals a couple years back though

.... well, you'd remember wrong!

That's a tad embarrassing, for some reason I remember winning the 2012 Semi Final against a PowerBug coached Buenos side. Checking my records and indeed I wasn't even close!

Buenos Aires are back to back prelim finalists RB.

So unless you made the granny one season... ;)

Quote from: Nails on April 25, 2014, 12:00:56 AM
Buenos Aires are back to back prelim finalists RB.

So unless you made the granny one season... ;)

Yeah, 2014

Anyway, back on topic

How are you tracking this week CF?

Just the 2 played so far and both were average. Still playing with only 2 defenders, which is very frustrating!

Round 6 - Four in a Row for Punishing Pumas

Sao Paulo Pumas (23.13.151) defeated Beijing Thunder (19.8.122)

Best
Sao Paulo: G Ablett jnr, R Sloane, M Wright
Beijing: J Aish

A dominant team effort has seen the Pumas march to their fourth straight win, downing the disappointing Thuder 151 to 122. As has been the case all season Ablett lead from the front and was backed by his able deputy Rory Sloane. Wright shone up forward. Apart from that it was just a solid team performance with the rest of the lot putting in good, but not excellent matches. Next round we face the Reindeer in France, so more of the excellent performances will be needed if we want to inflict PNL with their thier loss of the season and give some breathing space between us.

Reserves
Rio de Janeiro Jaguars (8.8.56) lost to Shanghai Storm (10.7.67)

Best
Rio de Janeiro: J Stringer
Shanghai: M Jones

A disappointing match in the reserves going down to the Storm. Jake Stringer performed admirably and if can continue that form may find his way back in the senior side in the future. Simon White also performed well down back. In good news for the club young guns Majak Daw and Jono O'Rourke played their first games for the season and were solid enough. Everyone is very excited with their potential and hopefully they can start to consistently get some games.

Round 7 - Pumas Maul Tame Reindeer

PNL Reindeers (21.12.138) lost to Sao Paulo Pumas (23.21.159)

Best
PNL: C Rioli, K Simpson, F Ray, C Enright
Sao Paulo: G Ablett jnr, J Polec, Jarryd Roughead, S Jacobs, A Walker, R Sloane, D Smith

A punishing 21 point win over the Reindeer has put the rest of the competition on notice that the Pumas are back in form after a shaky start to the season. It's starting to sound like an echo, but once again Gary Ablett lead the way brilliantly. Jared Polec put in his best performance for the club and is going from strength to strength this season, it's amazing what a bit of confidence can do for a man. Other starring players were Roughy who had gone through a slight rough patch, and Sam Jacobs dominated the ruck duel.

More of the same is required for the next round as we host the up and coming Dublin Destroyers in what is being billed as the match of the round. Five wins in a row for the Pumas, but all that hard work could unravel this week if they don't show up against a star studded Destroyer outfit.


Reserves
Marseille Kings (24.18.162) defeated Rio de Janeiro Jaguars (11.9.75)

Best
Marseille: C Dawes, D Shiel, L McPharlin, L Casboult
Rio de Janeiro: J Stringer, M Paparone

A heavy defeat for the Jaguars this week against one of the strongest reserves sides going around. Jake Stringer put in his second MOTM performance in a row, whilst fellow forward Marco Paparone was also impressive. Majak Daw toiled away in the ruck, and rookie listed midfielder Ben Newton made his debut for the club and performed admirably.

The one time Ablett goes bad....

Quote from: ossie85 on May 25, 2014, 06:28:05 PM

The one time Ablett goes bad....

Read my mind Oss, was on my way to post the same thing.  :o

We both know he'll score 200 against Dillos or if he's not captain the guy playing for the Pumas will. It's BS. CF always manages to beat the Dillos.

CF - how does it feel knowing that every season no matter what you're guaranteed at least one win? Even if you went on a total rebuilding phase you'd still beat us.

Quote from: ossie85 on May 25, 2014, 06:28:05 PM

The one time Ablett goes bad....

Haha yeah I love it. I told him and Sloane that they should both take it easy during the representative round, since I didn't want them tiring for the back end of the season  :-X ;)

Round 8 - Dublin Destroys Pumas Winning Streak

Sao Paulo Pumas (23.20.158) lost to Dublin Destroyers (26.18.174)

Best
Sao Paulo: G Ablett jnr, S Jacobs, W Minson, R Sloane, H Hartlett
Dublin: J Watson, J Selwood, N Dal Santo, T Rockliff, R Gray, D Mundy, A Rance, T Goldstein

Despite hitting the scoreboard with regularity against Dublin it was a leaky defense that ultimately gave the game away against a very strong Dublin side in this high scoring encounter which ended in a 16 point loss to the Pumas. It was the first loss in a while after Sao Paulo had compiled 5 wins on the trot, a set back that could prove costly later on.

The midfield was again dominant with Sam Jacobs and Will Minson getting it in to the hands of Ablett, Sloane and Hartlett with ease all day long. Sadly that was where it ended for positives, with the defense and the forwards having a day to forget, whilst fresh from his MOTM display against PNL Jared Polec was subdued, looking a little lethargic and tired.

Despite the loss there was still indications that the season is shaping up well for the Pumas. A match against fellow felines the New Delhi Tigers next round will hopefully get us back on the winning streak.

Reserves
Rio de Janeiro Jaguars (14.10.94) lost to Belfast Braves (16.13.109)

Best
Rio de Janeiro: M Paparone, M Daw
Belfast: S Grigg

Despite the loss there were some strong showings from forward Marco Paparone and forward/ruck Majak Daw. Good news considering how poorly the forwards did in the seniors, so some changes may be made for the next match. Stephen Hill played in the reserves after missing last week through injury, so may come back in to the side against the Tigers.

Round 9 - Pumas Show Some Majak to Defeat the Tigers

New Delhi Tigers (17.6.108) lost to Sao Paulo Pumas (20.16.136)

Best
New Delhi: R Bastinac, J Podsiadly
Sao Paulo: R Sloane, G Ablett jnr, S Hill, W Minson

A total of 6 changes were made to the squad that went down to Dublin last week, some were forced, but others due to poor form. The most notable in was Majak Daw who was making his debut for the Pumas after biding his time for the first 2 seasons without getting a game. It was a relatively subdued affair by both clubs and certainly not one for the highlights reel, with scrappy football played by both teams resulting in a low scoring spectacle for the viewers.

Sam Jacobs got injured early on, however Minson did a fine job rucking solo for the majority of the match, getting the ball in to the hands of Sloane, Ablett and Hill with great frequency. Majak Daw didn't look out of place on debut, and even helped out a little in the ruck when required. The big news however was young forward Marco Paparone picking up the rising star nomination after a superb match up forward. The future looks bright for this young lad as long as he keeps working hard.

Although the game was low scoring it was great for the Pumas to bounce back so quickly after the defeat last round, and with a tricky match against the Samurai next round now is as good as time as any to get some runs on the board.

Reserves
Mumbai Elephants (14.8.92) defeated Rio de Janeiro Jaguars (10.6.66)

Best
Mumbai: K Cheney, W Langford, R Bail
Rio de Janeiro: D Smith, M Wallis

Another loss for the Jaguars against the mighty Mumbai who haven't lost a game yet. After being rested for the seniors Devon Smith put in a MOTM display, and is looking very refreshed, ready to come back in to the Pumas team next round. Mitch Wallis and Taylor Adams were both influential in the midfield after spending a few weeks each on the sidelines. That depth may be important late in the season when fatigue and injuries can take their toll.

This is the bit where I would taunt Sao Paulo if we hadn't had such an inconsistent year and they didn't almost break a record last week.  :P

Round 10 - Roaring Pumas Put Competition on Notice

Sao Paulo Pumas (28.17.185) defeated Tokyo Samurai (19.10.124)

Best
Sao Paulo: Jarryd Roughead, H Hartlett, G Ablett jnr, D Zaharakis, S Hill, S Jacobs, R Sloane, B Houli, D Smith, A Walker
Tokyo: K Jack, L Shuey, L Parker, G Ibbotson

Technically Pumas can't actually roar, but with a performance like that we'll let that slide... Well what can be said about this match against the Samurai? The Pumas put on their best performance in the history of the WVX, setting a club record for highest score ever, but sadly sit second on the list behind rivals Buenos Aires for highest score by any club. This 61 point victory over Tokyo reminded all other clubs to not write off the Pumas from going back to back, after many had narrowed it down to a 3 team race for the flag, omitting Sao Paolo from calculations.

Not a single foot was put wrong this round and the whole team has to be congratulated on a fine performance. Too many contributions to name them all individually, which is what has been missing most weeks, with usually only 3-4 really stepping up each week, so it was great to the whole team busting their gut for each other. This performance needs to be backed up next week against the tough and unpredictable Cairo Sands.

Reserves
Rio de Janeiro Jaguars (7.8.50) lost to Yuzawa Typhoon (15.8.98)

Best
Rio de Janeiro: L Lowden
Yuzawa: J Rivers, P Ambrose, N Suban, S Ross

The Jaguars just can't buy a win at the moment. But what was great to see was Luke Lowden make his debut for the Jaguars after being on the list since the formation of the WXVs. It was an emotional moment for the lad when hew was told he was finally due to make his debut for the reserves. It's just the first step on the road to making his Puma debut and we wish him all the best.

Quote from: NigeyS on June 13, 2014, 03:30:23 PM
This is the bit where I would taunt Sao Paulo if we hadn't had such an inconsistent year and they didn't almost break a record last week.  :P

Haha we have been pretty up and down with our scoring too. You just have to hope Ablett doesn't turn up ;)

I really should have listened to you when you told me 1000 times last off-season that Polec is a gun and offered a trade... :(

Quote from: elephants on June 14, 2014, 12:47:45 PM
I really should have listened to you when you told me 1000 times last off-season that Polec is a gun and offered a trade... :(

Everyone should listen to me when I say people are guns (or going to be) ;)

What was the offer between us? Some type of swap for Vlastuin right?

Quote from: Honey Badger on June 14, 2014, 01:59:16 PM

Quote from: elephants on June 14, 2014, 12:47:45 PM
I really should have listened to you when you told me 1000 times last off-season that Polec is a gun and offered a trade... :(

Everyone should listen to me when I say people are guns (or going to be) ;)

What was the offer between us? Some type of swap for Vlastuin right?

Yeah I can't remember, that does ring a bell though :( We traded Vlasty for picks 11 and 14 who we used on Nank who will be an SC star and Garlett who... ugh.

Quote from: elephants on June 14, 2014, 02:09:16 PM

Quote from: Honey Badger on June 14, 2014, 01:59:16 PM

Quote from: elephants on June 14, 2014, 12:47:45 PM
I really should have listened to you when you told me 1000 times last off-season that Polec is a gun and offered a trade... :(

Everyone should listen to me when I say people are guns (or going to be) ;)

What was the offer between us? Some type of swap for Vlastuin right?

Yeah I can't remember, that does ring a bell though :( We traded Vlasty for picks 11 and 14 who we used on Nank who will be an SC star and Garlett who... ugh.

Garlett was always a huge risk, just a shame it didn't pay off.

Got him rotting in our Euros forward line too.

Quote from: NigeyS on June 14, 2014, 02:28:53 PM

Quote from: elephants on June 14, 2014, 02:09:16 PM

Quote from: Honey Badger on June 14, 2014, 01:59:16 PM

Quote from: elephants on June 14, 2014, 12:47:45 PM
I really should have listened to you when you told me 1000 times last off-season that Polec is a gun and offered a trade... :(

Everyone should listen to me when I say people are guns (or going to be) ;)

What was the offer between us? Some type of swap for Vlastuin right?

Yeah I can't remember, that does ring a bell though :( We traded Vlasty for picks 11 and 14 who we used on Nank who will be an SC star and Garlett who... ugh.

Garlett was always a huge risk, just a shame it didn't pay off.

Got him rotting in our Euros forward line too.

Huge risk, huge reward :'(

Playing down South somewhere now...

Quote from: NigeyS on June 13, 2014, 03:30:23 PM
This is the bit where I would taunt Sao Paulo if we hadn't had such an inconsistent year and they didn't almost break a record last week.  :P

Some kind of reverse psychology?  ??? :P

Round 11 - Pumas Whimper During Sandstorm

Cairo Sands (26.12.168) defeated Sao Paulo Pumas (22.16.148)

Best
Cairo: D Prestia, J McGovern, P Hanley, B Smith, A Carrazzo, S Mumford, E MacKenzie, N Malceski, S Dwyer
Sao Paulo: D Zaharakis, R Sloane, S Jacobs, R Harwood, G Ablett jnr, M Paparone

Sao Paulo fell to their 4th loss of the season against a very strong Cairo squad, however the loss was even more disappointing because of the inconsistency shown in the Pumas outfit. Fresh off the best ever Pumas performance last week the team scored almost 40 points less and looked all round disinterested in the match. The usual suspects Ablett and Sloane wore their heart on their sleeve like they do every week, whilst Zaha is in a rich vein of form. Youngsters Harwood and Paparone were both very impressive, but apart from them the rest of the team was quite poor. Things weren't helped when superstar midfielder Hartlett went down injured very early in the match, causing us to play most of the match a man down. Barring Paparone none of the other forwards fired, which showed drastically on the scoreboard.

A disappointing week, but true champions put defeats behind them immediately and start focusing on the upcoming game. Let's hope the Pumas can do just that when they take on Seoul next week.


Reserves
Alexandria Hieroglyphics (14.12.96) defeated Rio de Janeiro Jaguars (9.8.62)

Best
Alexandria: T Chaplin, S Rowe
Rio de Janeiro: T Adams, M Wallis

A disappointing performance by the reserves again this week, condemning them to their 6th loss in a row. Promising midfielders Taylor Adams and 2012 Rising Star Mitch Wallis were solid, but will need to show consistency in their performances if they want to have any chance of breaking back in to the senior squad. Adams played 10 games in his first year as a Puma last year, whilst Wallis made 19 appearances in 2 seasons, yet neither have featured for the Pumas yet this year. They need to knuckle down and work hard if they want to get back in the squad with other mids passing them in the pecking order.

Round 12 - Pumas Dine on Stale 'Pies

Sao Paulo Pumas (24.15.159) defeated Seoul Magpies (18.12.120)

Best
Sao Paulo: G Ablett jnr, S Jacobs, M Wright
Seoul: M LeCras, B Gibbs, S Coniglio

The Pumas are back on the winners list in fine fashion, downing Seoul by a whopping 39 points. With few standout players this week it was more of a solid team effort pumping the Pumas to a score of 159. The best player in the world Ablett again led the way, but was aided by superb work by ruckman Sam Jacobs all day. Comentary along the lines of "Jacobs taps it down to Ablett, who avoids a tackle and spears the pass in to Wright. Matty goes back and slots the goal," was heard consistently throughout the game.

Seoul was no match for the Pumas this week, but they must remain focused and not get complacent when they come up against Wellington next week who have shown some form the last few weeks with the return of their marquee player Tex Walker.


Reserves
Rio de Janeiro Jaguars (13.14.92) defeated Pyongyang Chollimas (11.8.74)

Best
Rio de Janeiro: C Masten, T Adams, S Kersten
Pyongyang: M Weller, H Hocking

JAGUARS WIN! JAGUARS WIN! JAGUARS WIN!
A six game losing streak was broken this week against Pyongyang. It was well deserved for the hard work they have all been putting in at training. Masten was BOG for the Rio, with Adams backing up last weeks display with another fine effort. Shane Kersten and the Pumas' second pick in last years draft Zak Jones both made their debut for the Jaguars. Despite picking up BOG honours Masten will be disappointed that he has been relegated to a reserves spot, having spent the last 3 matches playing for Rio. It's been a difficult year for Chris, who after performing so well last year has struggled with form and consistency this year, a trait shown by many in the squad to be fair, but which seems to be affecting him more. Well down on last years output Chris needs to get his head right if he wants to fight for his spot back in the Pumas lineup before the finals start.

Round 13 - Warriors Surrender to Pumas

Wellington Warriors (20.16.136) lost to Sao Paulo Pumas (24.20.164)

Best
Wellington: I Smith, L Taylor, B Deledio
Sao Paulo: S Jacobs, G Ablett jnr, S Hill, R Sloane, W Minson, D Smith, R Harwood

Despite improved recent performances by bottom of the ladder Wellington, they were never really in this match with the Pumas strolling to a 28 point victory to keep the pressure on the top 3. Sam Jacobs was the star of the day winning contest after contest giving first use of the ball to superstars Ablett, Sloane and Hill. With the improvements of Hill and Zaharakis this year the Pumas midfield is looking far more dangerous than previous seasons when it was mostly left to Ablett and Sloane to shoulder the burden. But with Hill and Zaha both stepping up it means that we have been able to cover the desperately out of form Chris Masten and the little niggles picked up by Hartlett and Polec.

Others to impress in this match were youngsters Devon Smith and Ryan Harwood. Devon has really improved his output up forward this year. After playing 10 games in his first 2 years at the club, Smith has now doubled his games tally and is looking very comfortable up forward. Whilst Harwood is in a similar position defensively, having played 9 games in his first 2 seasons, he has already played 7 this year and looks like he will be adding to that each week. In a season fraught with defensive issues, the improvement of Harwood has been a blessing.

Finally, last years second pick for the Pumas in the international draft, Zak Jones, made his debut on the weekend, and did not look out of place in the back half. The future looks bright for the young tough nut.

Reserves
Wellington Warriors (14.8.92) lost to Rio de Janeiro Jaguars (17.13.115)

Best
Wellington: N Foley, T Colyer
Rio de Janeiro: J Stringer, T Adams, M Wallis, C Masten

Two in a row for the Jaguars, who are improving each week, but just have to hope they haven't left it too late to challenge for a spot in the top 8 after that disastrous losing streak mid-season. Jake Stringer impressed up forward and was supported by a brilliant midfield trio of Adams, Wallis and Masten. Rookie listed Blaine Johnson made his Jaguar debut and performed ok.

Round 14 - Major Injury Sours Regulation Win

Sao Paulo Pumas (22.17.149) defeated Pacific Islanders (17.12.114)

Best
Sao Paulo: J Gunston, R Sloane, D Zaharakis, A Walker, H Hartlett, S Jacobs
Pacific: M Bontempelli, S Gibson

What was meant to be a simple win and percentage booster for the Pumas turned into a disastrous weekend, with club captain and superstar Gary Ablett dislocating his shoulder, forcing him out of the game. The extent of the injury is still unknown, but early speculation is saying he will miss at least 4 weeks, meaning he may not be available until the second week of the finals series. With PNL and Moscow breathing down the Pumas necks pushing for that 4th spot, it is all the more vital to try and maintain 4th so we get that second chance, just in case Ablett can't return. More details will come when the full extent is known...

On to the game though and plenty of stars picked up the slack in the absence of Ablett. Sloane, Zaha and Hartlett dominated the midfield battle, giving the ball to Gunston up front who could not be stopped by the Islander defense. When the ball did occasionally venture in to the Islanders forward 50 Andrew Walker was there to mop it up most of the time, putting in his best performance of the season. Walker hasn't hit the heights of last season that won him the leagues MVP, but he has been solid none-the-less down back this year.

Next weeks match against the Cobras poses many questions for the Pumas... How will they cope without Ablett leading the team? Who will captain the side? Is the back to back premiership dream over? All these questions and more will be answered in the upcoming weeks...


Reserves
Rio de Janeiro Jaguars (20.21.141) defeated Port Morseby Iguanadons (20.16.136)

Best
Rio de Janeiro: W Minson, S White, M Wallis, J Stringer
Port Morseby: S Day, J Witts, L Brown, B Sheppard, D Terlich, R Stanley, L Thomas

What a performance by the Jaguars!! Will Minson who was being rested for next weeks clash against the Cobras was dominant all day leading the Jaguars to an impressive win. Three wins in a row now for the Jaguars who are pressing hard to get in to the top 8. Brett O'Hanlon made his first appearance for the Jaguars since 2012.

Great write ups HB

Cheers Os. Also just read that Hill may be out for 3 weeks, so there goes 2 of my top 3 mids! All going wrong at the wrong end of the season!

All just in time to face Cape Town this weekend! :P

I'm pretty torn though; I think I might trade in Sloane for Ablett in Supercoach, so do I want him to do well this weekend?  :(

Quote from: My Chumps on July 08, 2014, 10:06:10 PM
All just in time to face Cape Town this weekend! :P

I'm pretty torn though; I think I might trade in Sloane for Ablett in Supercoach, so do I want him to do well this weekend?  :(

I hate those dilemmas... I captained Rocky in DT when I came up against Dublin last week :P.

And those are some big hits to end the regular season :o. Ablett and Hill will dent the scoring a bit which I won't complain about ;). Hill should be back for Finals though which is where you'll need him, as you are almost certain to make the 8 anyway.

Quote from: Hellopplz on July 08, 2014, 11:36:04 PM

Quote from: My Chumps on July 08, 2014, 10:06:10 PM
All just in time to face Cape Town this weekend! :P

I'm pretty torn though; I think I might trade in Sloane for Ablett in Supercoach, so do I want him to do well this weekend?  :(

I hate those dilemmas... I captained Rocky in DT when I came up against Dublin last week :P.

And those are some big hits to end the regular season :o. Ablett and Hill will dent the scoring a bit which I won't complain about ;). Hill should be back for Finals though which is where you'll need him, as you are almost certain to make the 8 anyway.

Yep Hill a big loss for us and will certainly dent the scoring without him and Ablett in the side. Hill averaging over 100 this year, which is what I think I told many people last year during trade period, but no one was interested in him. Stepped up a level just as I expected him to. Such a game breaker, which is always great for SC. Been very disappointed with Masten this year though! >:(

A loan deal is rumoured to be on the brink of completion between the New Delhi Tigers and the Sao Paulo Pumas. Coming off 4 straight tons, Mitch Duncan is set to represent his old club the Puma's in an injury-replacement deal. It is thought that this was a clause in the Duncan contract signed last trade period.

Stay tuned for confirmation ;)

Quote from: elephants on July 09, 2014, 02:41:43 AM
A loan deal is rumoured to be on the brink of completion between the New Delhi Tigers and the Sao Paulo Pumas. Coming off 4 straight tons, Mitch Duncan is set to represent his old club the Puma's in an injury-replacement deal. It is thought that this was a clause in the Duncan contract signed last trade period.

Stay tuned for confirmation ;)

And it's confirmed. Just waiting for final approval from WXV HQ, which shouldn't be a problem since it was clearly stated in his transfer deal.

Like a typical aussie rules administrator,  I reneg on that deal

Haha, bummer! Did all I could CF :p

Thanks anyway LE :)

Ablett out for the year...

Quote from: ossie85 on July 09, 2014, 02:23:05 PM
Pumas out for the year...

Quote from: ossie85 on July 09, 2014, 02:23:05 PM
Ablett out for the year...

A statement will be released in the near future regarding the issue.

Captain Gary Out For Season

After dislocating his shoulder during the win over the Islanders on the weekend there was much speculation on what was going to happen to inspirational captain Gary Ablett. Initial thoughts had him missing 4 games if he chose to go the conservative treatment option, but in the end after consultations with specialists Gary has opted to go under the knife with the hope of preventing further dislocations. Unfortunately for the Pumas this means Ablett will miss the remainder of the season, but obviously his health is more important to us than risking him in a few games this season. Gary should hopefully be able to have a good preseason and be right to go for round 1 next year.

But what does this mean to the Pumas who will now miss their captain for a minimum 4 matches and maximum 7? Many pundits are saying it's season over for the Pumas who will limp in to the finals and crumble without a whimper, others are saying that the depth at the Pumas should be able to patch up the loss of Ablett, with vice captain Rory Sloane ready to step up and lead the side deep into the finals series. We will just have to play the waiting game to see how this pans out, as right now we can only guess.

This isn't the first time that Gary has missed games for the Pumas, having missed 2 games in 2012 and 1 in 2013. Obviously 3 games isn't a large pool to look at for significance, but in those 3 games the Pumas have a record of 2-1 with scores of 158, 155 and 143 for an average of 152. In the 51 matches that the Pumas have played with Ablett they also amazingly average 152 (technically 151.9), so no difference with Gary in or out of the side. Clearly 3 games is not a big enough sample size, but it looks as if the others will rally and give it their all when Gary isn't in the side. Hopefully that trend continues for the remainder of the season...

Another blow for the Pumas depth with 2012 Rising Star Winner Mitch Wallis out for the year:

http://www.afl.com.au/news/2014-07-21/young-dog-out-for-the-year

After a breakout year of 2012, where he played 12 matches at an average of 93.92 and took home the Rising Star, Mitch Wallis managed only 7 games at 76.86 in 2013 and didn't make it into the seniors at all this year (chance for a late inclusion this round though!).

And we take another hit! Mitch was getting closer and closer to forcing his way back in to the starting XV too. Hopefully a big pre season will see him come out firing next year :)

More injury news for Sao Paulo, though he's been absent for a while:

http://www.afl.com.au/news/2014-07-29/hawk-goes-for-surgery

Quote from: ossie85 on July 29, 2014, 05:12:37 PM

More injury news for Sao Paulo, though he's been absent for a while:

http://www.afl.com.au/news/2014-07-29/hawk-goes-for-surgery

Yeah we decided that it would be better to give him the best opportunity to be right for 2015 than risk him so late in the year when he is underdone. Brendan will basically be a new recruit for us next year :)

http://www.afl.com.au/news/2014-07-30/blue-charged-by-police

Any comment?

Pudildos battle this week

Who will win? Who will lose? Who'll be the world's greatest champion?

Quote from: ossie85 on July 30, 2014, 08:19:22 PM

http://www.afl.com.au/news/2014-07-30/blue-charged-by-police

Any comment?

(http://psychedelicdungeon.files.wordpress.com/2010/09/judgeroy_snyder.jpg)
Boys will be boys

Quote from: Honey Badger on July 31, 2014, 10:39:39 AM

Quote from: ossie85 on July 30, 2014, 08:19:22 PM

http://www.afl.com.au/news/2014-07-30/blue-charged-by-police

Any comment?

(http://psychedelicdungeon.files.wordpress.com/2010/09/judgeroy_snyder.jpg)
Boys will be boys

;D

Do the Pumas have the same faith in Mason Wood as the Kangaroos do?

http://www.afl.com.au/news/2014-07-31/mason-wood-resigns

Quote from: ossie85 on July 31, 2014, 12:47:15 PM

Do the Pumas have the same faith in Mason Wood as the Kangaroos do?

http://www.afl.com.au/news/2014-07-31/mason-wood-resigns

Yes we do, we are expecting him to form a great partnership with fellow young forwards Gunston, Smith, Stringer, Paparone and Kersten in the coming years :)

Quote from: Honey Badger on July 31, 2014, 12:59:38 PM

Quote from: ossie85 on July 31, 2014, 12:47:15 PM

Do the Pumas have the same faith in Mason Wood as the Kangaroos do?

http://www.afl.com.au/news/2014-07-31/mason-wood-resigns

Yes we do, we are expecting him to form a great partnership with fellow young forwards Gunston, Smith, Stringer, Paparone and Kersten in the coming years :)

#gun ;)

Quote from: elephants on July 31, 2014, 01:02:10 PM

Quote from: Honey Badger on July 31, 2014, 12:59:38 PM

Quote from: ossie85 on July 31, 2014, 12:47:15 PM

Do the Pumas have the same faith in Mason Wood as the Kangaroos do?

http://www.afl.com.au/news/2014-07-31/mason-wood-resigns

Yes we do, we are expecting him to form a great partnership with fellow young forwards Gunston, Smith, Stringer, Paparone and Kersten in the coming years :)

#gun ;)

I had to give up a 2 time Gatinho medalist to get him, so he better be worth it ;)

Quote from: Honey Badger on July 31, 2014, 01:03:54 PM

Quote from: elephants on July 31, 2014, 01:02:10 PM

Quote from: Honey Badger on July 31, 2014, 12:59:38 PM

Quote from: ossie85 on July 31, 2014, 12:47:15 PM

Do the Pumas have the same faith in Mason Wood as the Kangaroos do?

http://www.afl.com.au/news/2014-07-31/mason-wood-resigns

Yes we do, we are expecting him to form a great partnership with fellow young forwards Gunston, Smith, Stringer, Paparone and Kersten in the coming years :)

#gun ;)

I had to give up a 2 time Gatinho medalist to get him, so he better be worth it ;)

Haha, Stringer will be fwd premo in a few years I'm sure of it. Five-straight in a loss isn't a bad taste of whats to come!

Worlds Rising Star Nominee has been signed by his AFL Club for another 2 years

http://www.afl.com.au/news/2014-08-01/lions-resign-19yo-utility-for-two-more-years

Do the Pumas have the same faith?

Quote from: ossie85 on August 01, 2014, 11:25:31 AM

Worlds Rising Star Nominee has been signed by his AFL Club for another 2 years

http://www.afl.com.au/news/2014-08-01/lions-resign-19yo-utility-for-two-more-years

Do the Pumas have the same faith?

See above response when asked about Wood ;)

I really need to update my match reviews, now 4 games behind...

That last game truly one of the greats

Been involved in a few classic finals matches now. Last years prelim against the Dillos comes to mind :)

fuk the poomas

Curious about the form of reigning Premiership Captain Will Minson...

Will he have a place in the Prelim final?

More importantly... Does he have a future as a Puma!?

Quote from: ossie85 on August 17, 2014, 04:04:25 PM

Curious about the form of reigning Premiership Captain Will Minson...

Will he have a place in the Prelim final?

Hmm it's an interesting situation, but as you know I'm not one to hold back with the tough decisions to win matches, i.e stripping Ablett of the captaincy in the finals last year...

Quote from: Nails on August 11, 2014, 06:46:13 PM
fuk the poomas

So I fear unfortunately that I have fallen too far behind in the reviews to catch up on them (very busy with uni at the moment). However I will be doing an awards night, most likely on Wednesday. 4 awards will be on offer for the players...

Best First Year Player (at the club, not debutante year) - previously won by Andrew Walker (2013)
Most Improved (for players on the list for at least 2 season) - previously won by Dylan Roberton (2013)
Gatinho (Reserves B&F) - previously won by Mitch Duncan (2012 + 2013)
Gato Grande (Senior B&F) - previously won by Will Minson (2013) and Gary Ablett (2012)

I posted some odds in the other thread, but will post them here for anyone who wants to have a stab at who will win the awards. I think purps got pretty close last year for all 4!

Gato Grande Odds
Ablett - $1.30
Sloane - $2.40
Jacobs - $2.55
Roughead - $4.80
Houli - $7.90
Other - $99

Gatinho
Taylor Adams - $1.90
Jake Stringer - $2.25
Chris Masten - $3.00
Mitch Wallis - $4.15
Marco Paparone - $6.70
Other - $99

Most Improved
Jared Polec - $1.85
Sam Jacobs - $2.50
Devon Smith - $3.35
Ryan Harwood - $5.15
Stephen Hill - $8.40
Other - $99

Best First Year Player
Jake Stringer - $1.80
Marco Paparone - $2.20
Ben Jacobs - $5.50
Zak Jones - $7.00
Blaine Johnson - $11.50
Other - $99

Get your bets in now :)

100 into Sloane, 1800 into Polec, 20 into Stringer (twice)

moneys on Jacobs

Reckon Sloane is a nice smokie there. Agree with Oss, would back Stringer for other two awards but think there could be good money to be made with Devon as most improved over Polec (although doubt it).

Well it's that time of year again, the night when everyone in Brazil gets drunk and parties all night long, and no I'm not talking about Carnival! It's the Sao Paulo Pumas Awards Night!!!

As the defending champions of the WXV 2014 was always going to be a tough year for the Pumas as they would have targets on their back all season long. But the Pumas did what they always do, put their head down, ignored the media and got about their business, often dismantling teams with ruthless efficiency. The depth of the team was tested at times with many big name players missing for large chunks of the season, but the fringe players stepped up when thrust into the spotlight to take the Pumas all the way to the grand final, giving them a chance to defend their title. Sadly it wasn't to be, going down in a valiant effort against the mighty Destroyers who were well deserved winners. So the Pumas had to settle for second place, but will use that as motivation to get back to the top of the tree next year. Finally, what season could be complete without defeating the Armadillos (twice), to keep hold of the Rhythm Cup and hold a 6-0 record over the team from Argentina?

But tonight is about the efforts of the players, rather than the achievements of the team as a whole. Without these players who put in their all each and every week, we wouldn't be here tonight. This year we had 30 players represent Sao Paulo, including 6 debutantes, whilst for the Jaguars 31 players pulled on the red and white. We also had 6 players play their 50th match for the Pumas this year which is a very impressive effort! So plenty of players in contention for the 4 awards on offer tonight. As usual we have the 2 best and fairest awards namely the Gatinho for the reserves and the much coveted Gato Grande for the seniors. The other 2 awards on offer are of course the Most Improved Award, and the Best First Year Award.

So who will take home the medals tonight? Captain Gary was in scintillating form before being struck down from injury, but he held on to win his third Jim Stynes Medal, can he hold on and win his second Gato Grande? In the reserves the only winner of the Gatinho Mitch Duncan is no longer at the club, so who will step up and win? Whilst it's anyones game for the other 2 awards.

So without further ado, let's get on with the count!

Round 1
Sao Paulo Pumas (21.12.138) lost to Mexico City Suns (24.13.157)
5 - N/A
4 - Ablett
3 - S. Jacobs, Roughead
2 - N/A
1 - Sloane

Reserves
Rio de Janeiro Jaguars (15.7.97) defeated Mexico City Suns (13.12.90)
3 - Polec, 2 - Paparone, 1 - Adams

Round 2
Sao Paulo Pumas (20.13.133) lost to Moscow Spetsnaz (20.20.140)
5 - N/A
4 - N/A
3 - Hartlett, Houli
2 - Ablett, Masten, Smith
1 - Hill, Sloane

Reserves
Rio de Janeiro Jaguars (11.5.71) defeated Siberian Wolverines (7.3.45)
3 - Minson, 2 - Polec, 1 - Adams, 1 - Paparone

Round 3
Berlin Brewers (18.14.122) lost to Sao Paulo Pumas (23.18.156)
5 - Ablett
4 - N/A
3 - Roughead
2 - Minson, Sloane
1 - Gunston, Hartlett, Walker, Wright

Reserves
Rhineland Rum-Runners (7.5.47) lost to Rio de Janeiro Jaguars (9.7.61)
3 - S. Jacobs, 2 - Zaharakis, 1 - Stringer

Round 4
Toronto Wolves (22.15.147) lost to Sao Paulo Pumas (23.16.154)
5 - Gunston
4 - Ablett, Houli
3 - S. Jacobs, Sloane, Wright
2 - N/A
1 - Roughead

Reserves
Toronto Wolves (11.6.72) defeated Rio de Janeiro Jaguars (4.5.29)
3 - Wallis, 2 - Stringer, 1 - Sumner

Round 5
New York Revolution (17.11.113) lost to Sao Paulo Pumas (22.13.145)
5 - Ablett
4 - N/A
3 - Gusnton, S. Jacobs, Walker
2 - Wright
1 - Polec, Sloane

Reserves
Washington Rebellion (5.6.36) lost to Rio de Janeiro Jaguars (8.9.57)
3 - Masten, 2 - White, 1 - Paparone

Round 6
Sao Paulo Pumas (23.13.151) defeated Beijing Thunder (19.8.122)
5 - N/A
4 - Ablett
3 - N/A
2 - Hartlett, Sloane, Walker, Wright
1 - Houli, Minson

Reserves
Rio de Janeiro Jaguars (8.8.56) lost to Shanghai Storm (10.7.67)
3 - Stringer, 2 - White, 1 - O'Rourke

Round 7
PNL Reindeers (21.12.138) lost to Sao Paulo Pumas (23.21.159)
5 - S. Jacobs, Roughead
4 - Ablett, Polec
3 - Walker
2 - Smith
1 - Gunston, Minson, Sloane

Reserves
Marseille Kings (24.18.162) defeated Rio de Janeiro Jaguars (11.9.75)
3 - Stringer, 2 - Paparone, Daw


So seven rounds in and time to check on the leader boards before then announcing the winner of this years "Best First Year Award". We are just over a third of the way through, with the Pumas this year playing 20 matches and the Jaguars 19.

Gato Grande
28 votes - Gary Ablett
14 - Sam Jacobs
12 - Jarryd Roughead
11 - Rory Sloane
10 - Jack Gunston
9 - Andrew Walker
8 - Bachar Houli, Matthew Wright
6 - Hamish Hartlett
5 - Jared Polec
4 - Will Minson, Devon Smith
2 - Chris Masten
1 - Stephen Hill

Gatinho
9 votes - Jake Stringer
6 - Marco Papaone
5 - Jared Polec
4 - Simon White
3 - Sam Jacobs, Chris Masten, Will Minson, Mitch Wallis
2 - Taylor Adams, David Zaharakis
1 - Majak Daw, Jono O'Rourke, Liam Sumner

Unsurprisingly Ablett has stormed out to a commanding lead in the race for the Gato Grande, already sitting 14 points ahead of Sam Jacobs, whilst Roughead, Sloane and Gunston have all scored well from the first 7 games. In the Gatinho new boy Jake Stringer has started well sitting 3 points ahead of fellow newcomer Marco Papaone with 9 votes. The bookies favourite for the award Taylor Adams has started very slowly, already 7 points behind Stringer...

There wasn't much doubt over who would win this award this year. After a very quiet recruiting period last year where the Pumas didn't go out and bag a big name player there weren't many to chose from for this award, but that doesn't make it any less meaningful for 2014's winner Jake Stringer! Recruited to the club due to his enormous potential and trading away Mitch Duncan in the process there was some pressure on Stringer to make a big impact in his first year. Despite only playing 2 of the first 16 games for the Pumas Jake toiled away for the Jaguars showing what he was capable of. But towards the end of the year Stringer hit some form and forced his way in to the Pumas side for their finals campaign, playing a pivotal role in the win over the Suns and then backing that up with an impressive performance in the grand final.

Jake did only play 5 games for the Pumas this year, but he showed in those games that he is a big game player and has a huge future ahead of him. Congrats to Jake Stringer for winning this years Best First Year Award!!

(http://resources0.news.com.au/images/2014/08/10/1227019/699688-343afb32-2067-11e4-b035-3276a1bc3645.jpg)

Round 8
Sao Paulo Pumas (23.20.158) lost to Dublin Destroyers (26.18.174)
5 - Ablett
4 - S. Jacobs
3 - Minson
2 - N/A
1 - Hartlett, Houli, Roughead, Sloane, Walker

Reserves
Rio de Janeiro Jaguars (14.10.94) lost to Belfast Braves (16.13.109)
3 - Paparone, 2 - Daw, 1 - Stringer

Round 9
New Delhi Tigers (17.6.108) lost to Sao Paulo Pumas (20.16.136)
5 - N/A
4 - Sloane
3 - Ablett, Hill, Zaharakis
2 - Minson
1 - Gunston, Houli, Paparone

Reserves
Mumbai Elephants (14.8.92) defeated Rio de Janeiro Jaguars (10.6.66)
3 - Smith, 2 - Wallis, 1 - Adams

Round 10
Sao Paulo Pumas (28.17.185) defeated Tokyo Samurai (19.10.124)
5 - Hartlett, Roughead
4 - Ablett, Zaharakis
3 - Houli, S. Jacobs, Walker
2 - Hill, Smith
1 - Harwood, Minson, Sloane

Reserves
Rio de Janeiro Jaguars (7.8.50) lost to Yuzawa Typhoon (15.8.98)
3 - Lowden, 2 - Masten, 1 - Adams

Round 11
Cairo Sands (26.12.168) defeated Sao Paulo Pumas (22.16.148)
5 - Zaharakis
4 - Harwood, S. Jacobs
3 - Sloane
2 - Paparone, Walker
1 - Ablett, Houli, Minson

Reserves
Alexandria Hieroglyphics (14.12.96) defeated Rio de Janeiro Jaguars (9.8.62)
3 - Adams, 2 - Wallis, 1 - Masten

Round 12
Sao Paulo Pumas (24.15.159) defeated Seoul Magpies (18.12.120)
5 - Ablett, S. Jacobs
4 - N/A
3 - Wright
2 - Houli, Walker
1 - Gunston

Reserves
Rio de Janeiro Jaguars (13.14.92) defeated Pyongyang Chollimas (11.8.74)
3 - Masten, 2 - Adams, 1 - Kersten

Round 13
Wellington Warriors (20.16.136) lost to Sao Paulo Pumas (24.20.164)
5 - Ablett, S. Jacobs
4 - Hill
3 - Harwood, Minson, Smith
2 - Sloane
1 - Wright

Reserves
Wellington Warriors (14.8.92) lost to Rio de Janeiro Jaguars (17.13.115)
3 - Stringer, 2 - Adams, 1 - Wallis

Round 14
Sao Paulo Pumas (22.17.149) defeated Pacific Islanders (17.12.114)
5 - Gunston
4 - Sloane, Walker
3 - Zaharakis
2 - S. Jacobs
1 - Hartlett

Reserves
Rio de Janeiro Jaguars (20.21.141) defeated Port Morseby Iguanadons (20.16.136)
3 - Minson, 2 - Wallis, 2 - White

14 rounds down now, so time to check in on the leaders again and see if there's been any changes...

Gato Grande
51 votes - Gary Ablett
37 - Sam Jacobs
26 - Rory Sloane
21 - Andrew Walker
18 - Jarryd Roughead
17 - Jack Gunston
16 - Bachar Houli
15 - David Zaharakis
14 - Will Minson
13 - Hamish Hartlett
12 - Matthew Wright
10 - Stephen Hill
9 - Devon Smith
8 - Ryan Harwood
5 - Jared Polec
3 - Marco Paparone
2 - Chris Masten

Gatinho
13 votes - Jake Stringer
11 - Mitch Wallis
10 - Taylor Adams
9 - Chris Masten, Marco Paparone
6 - Will Minson, Simon White
5 - Jared Polec
3 - Majak Daw, Sam Jacob, Luke Lowden, Devon Smith
2 - David Zaharakis
1 - Shane Kersten, Jono O'Rourke, Liam Sumner

So both Ablett and Stringer have maintained their leads in the voting. Ablett still holding a 14 point lead over Jacobs with just 6 games to go. The bad news is Ablett doesn't play again, can he hold on or will Sam Jacobs surpass him? No one else looks to be in contention...
Stringer only picked up 4 votes in those 7 rounds, but still holds a 2 point lead over Mitch Wallis, with the favourite Adams just a vote further back. Going to be a very tight finish I think!

Now we will check in and see who is this years Most Improved!

It's time for the second award of the night. This year again we had three standouts to pick from, who in alphabetical order are Sam Jacobs, Jared Polec and Devon Smith.

Jacobs had a standout year in the ruck after a disappointing 2013 campaign, which culminated in him being named in the ruck of the All Worlds XV. Jacobs played 19 games this year at an average of 114.47, up a massive 30 points from his 2013 average of 84 from 15 games! But the question is whether this was really improvement, or whether he was just returning to his previous form from 2012...

Jared Polec entered his second year at the club without a game to his name and only one for the reserves, so it was a make or break season for him. And make it he did! Polec shot out of the block in the reserves and forced himself to be picked for the Pumas. His form petered a little towards the end of the season, but in the end he had managed to play 14 games for the Pumas at an average of 82.93. A pretty amazing effort for the young midfielder.

Lastly, but certainly not least is Devon Smith. Many punters said at the start of the season that the Pumas lacked a quality F4 and that would be their downfall, stating Smith was not up to the same standard as the other top teams. But boy did he prove them wrong! After playing 8 games last year for an average of 67.75 Devon stepped up his training and ended the season as an automatic selection in the team, finishing with 17 games under his belt at an average of 88.71, including a terrific finals series where he averaged 115.67 from his 3 games! I don't think many are doubting his quality now!

So now to name the winner. Such a difficult choice at the best of times, but made even harder when you have to pick between those three. But in the end the award has to go to Jared Polec for coming from nowhere to playing almost three quarters of the Pumas games. Congrats Jared, here's hoping for further improvement next year!

(http://resources3.news.com.au/images/2014/02/25/1226837/708591-94443014-9e19-11e3-b163-d60ea6e39be3.jpg)

Round 15
Cape Town Cobras (23.16.154) defeated Sao Paulo Pumas (22.13.145)
5 - N/A
4 - Harwood, Houli
3 - S. Jacobs
2 - Minson, Walker
1 - Hartlett, Sloane

Reserves
Cape Town Cobras (9.7.61) lost to Rio de Janeiro Jaguars (21.14.140)
3 - Wallis, 2 - Masten, 1 - Riley

Round 16
Sao Paulo Pumas (17.20.122) defeated London Royals (18.12.120)
5 - N/A
4 - Harwood, Roughead
3 - N/A
2 - Houli, S. Jacobs
1 - Minson

Reserves
Rio de Janeiro Jaguars (20.17.137) defeated Imperial Princes (7.2.44)
3 - Stringer, 2 - Adams, 2 - Minson

Round 17
Sao Paulo Pumas (23.12.150) defeated Buenos Aires Armadillos (19.13.121)
5 - N/A
4 - Hartlett, S. Jacobs, Roughead
3 - N/A
2 - Houli
1 - Gunston, Harwood, Masten, Sloane

Reserves
Rio de Janeiro Jaguars (20.10.130) defeated Buenos Aires Armadillos (2.5.17)
3 - Adams, 2 - Wright, 1 - Armstrong

Qualifying Final
Mexico City Suns (25.14.164) lost to Sao Paulo Pumas (25.15.165)
5 - S. Jacobs, Sloane
4 - Stringer
3 - Roughead, Smith
2 - N/A
1 - Buntine, Houli, Zaharakis

Reserves (Elimination Final)
Mumbai Elephants (8.11.59) lost to Rio de Janeiro Jaguars (11.10.76)
3 - Polec, 2 - B. Jacobs, 1 - O'Rourke

Preliminary Final
Sao Paulo Pumas (25.18.168) defeated Buenos Aires Armadillos (19.14.128)
5 - N/A
4 - N/A
3 - Hartlett, Harwood, Houli, Masten
2 - Hill, Zaharakis
1 - Buntine, Polec, Sloane, Smith

Reserves (Semi Final)
Alexandria Hieroglyphics (16.13.109) defeated Rio de Janeiro Jaguars (10.6.66)
3 - Armstrong, 2 - B. Jacobs, 1 - O'Rourke

Grand Final
Sao Paulo Pumas (22.13.145) lost to  Dublin Destroyers (24.12.156)
5 - Gunston, Roughead Smith
4 - Jacobs, Sloane
3 - N/A
2 - N/A
1 - Hartlett

So that's the voting concluded. Now all that's left is to announce the winners!

Well it was an incredibly tight race this year in the Gatinho, with the top 4 just 1 vote ahead of the next on the list... Finishing in 3rd place (1 vote ahead of Masten in 4th) with 14 votes is Mitch Wallis. Despite finishing third it was another disappointing year for the 2012 Rising Star, after not playing a single match for the Pumas this year. To make matters worse he has already been traded to rivals Buenos Aires ahead of the next season. We wish him all the best at his new club.

In second place with a told of 15 votes another young midfielder, Taylor Adams. In his second year at the club Taylor didn't progress as we hoped. After playing 10 games last year for the Pumas he only managed the 1 this year and spent his time playing for the Jaguars. Adams started to find form in the back end of the season, but an unfortunate finger injury cut his season short. A big pre season is needed for Taylor if he wants to force his way back in to the Pumas calculations.

So that means that the winner of the Gatinho for 2014 is none other than Jake Stringer! It was an excellent season for Stringer in the reserves, being named BOG on 4 occasions and picking up votes in 3 other matches. It is interesting to note that Stringer was brought in to replace the previous 2 time Gatinho winner Mitch Duncan, so it's only fitting that he has also won this award. This is Jake's second award of the night after picking up the Best First Year award earlier this evening. Bigger and better things await for Jake Stringer!!

(http://resources3.news.com.au/images/2013/10/10/1226737/045307-jake-stringer.jpg)

So now is the time you've all been waiting for. Has Gary held on to win his second Gato Grande? You are about to find out...

In third place with a total of 38 votes is superstar midfielder and the heart and soul of the team, Rory Sloane! Another fantastic year for Rory who really stepped up when Ablett went down injured. His heroics saved the Pumas on more than one occasion, most notably during the qualifying final against the Suns. Last year Rory picked up 27 votes, so he has stepped his game up again this year, and we hope he can do even better next year!

In second place with 51 votes is Gary Ablett! Yes that's right, unfortunately the champion of the game has been pipped at the post. Gary started the year on fire and seemed like he was unstoppable, but sadly a shoulder injury ended his season early. To poll 51 votes in just 14 matches is an incredible achievement from the little master, but once again Gary is the runner up for the Gato Grande, despite winning the Jim Stynes 3 years in a row.

So that means that the winner for 2014 is Sam Jacobs! What a revelation Sam was in the ruck this year! Absolutely unstoppable and when Ablett went down he took over captaincy duties for the majority of the matches, including the big task of the grand final, where he did not let the team down. Sadly he couldn't hold the trophy aloft, but he was named in the All-Worlds side, which is great recognition from the rest of the competition. Hopefully Sauce can back it up again next year!

(http://resources0.news.com.au/images/2014/06/29/1226971/412200-8d5a658c-ff87-11e3-9c30-461308da4efd.jpg)

So there we have it, all the votes counted and the medals awarded. Total votes for all players in both competitions are below. Thanks for tuning in :)

Great write ups!!... Cashed in well with my Polec bet, mixed bag otherwise

Quote from: kilbluff1985 on September 01, 2014, 06:30:25 PM
moneys on Jacobs

One Gatinho for another HB! Who will be next? :P

Quote from: ossie85 on September 03, 2014, 03:48:37 PM

Great write ups!!... Cashed in well with my Polec bet, mixed bag otherwise

Considered giving it to one of the others to spite you, but couldn't in the end :P

Shock Resignation Sees Club Fold

Perhaps the competitions most dominant side for the first three years of the competition is no more! Honey Badger shocked the world when he announced his resignation as head coach of the Pumas, catching everyone off guard and forcing the officials at the Worlds Headquarters into a flurry of meetings to work out what to do. In the end it was decided that the Pumas would be disbanded and the players would join players from the Warriors in a special draft to create two new teams for the league. Brazil feared that they would lose out on hosting a WXV side, but those fears were allayed when it was announced that one of the new teams would be located in Rio de Janiero and be called the Jaguars, in honour of the Pumas reserves side of the last 2 seasons.

After losing to Dublin in the grand final everyone thought the Pumas and Honey Badger would regroup and prepare to make another assault on the flag in 2015, but it was not to be. HB cited stressors outside of the work place as reasons for his departure from the league, but hinted that he may attempt to make a return in the future, and would contemplate an advisory role with a club if any wanted his services. HB leaves the competition as the most decorated coach, leaving with 1 premiership, 1 minor premiership, 2 preason premierships, and a champions league medal around his neck. He also picked up numerous coach of the week awards. Despite all this success he was never named Coach of the Year due to changes in how it was awarded. Initially it was given to the coach of the premiership team, but it was changed to a vote for the second season of the league, and even though the Pumas won the premiership HB was controversially absent from the nominees list. Again he was left of the nominees list in 2014, but was added in as an afterthought after pushing his team through to the GF despite several injuries to key players. However HB is not bitter about this omission from his achievements list.

In parting Honey Badger wished all ex Pumas luck in future seasons wherever they ended up and apologised that he would be taking the journey with them. Thanks everyone for a great competition!

Your friends (or rivals? :o) from northern Africa are sad to see you go and can't believe we didn't get a chance to get revenge!