The big news again this week centres in the West and the suspension by the Weagles of star player, 4 time club champion, Brownlow medalist and man about town Ben Cousins has again raised the use of drugs in the AFL.  After missing a training session the club has banned him indefinitely.  His future remains in the balance with rumors even suggesting that he will go to the States and enter a celebrity rehabilitation clinic.  In the meantime it is said that he has moved back with his family to overcome his problems.

While Digger has been flippant on occasions when discussing this in the past he wishes Ben all the best.

The good old navy blues have taken out their second NAB cup in three seasons by beating the boys from Brisbane last weekend.  Digger cannot see this victory holding much water when the real season starts in just over a week.  There is one very happy nun in HCMC.  Good onyer Trish.

Other than that all is quiet in AFL circles and there is nit much to report.

Adelaide will be looking for someone to grow taller this season as their ruck men continue to injure themselves.  This could be the undoing of the Ravens this year as Ken McGregor will need to fill the rucking duties.

Many pundits are tipping Essendon to be the big improvers in season 2007 but Digger has his doubts.  While beating the reigning premiers in Perth last weekend may seem like the fillup they needed to get the hopes up maybe the Weagles had other things on (and in) their minds.  Look out for young gun Leroy Jetta for the Bombers and put him in your Super Coach team.

Richmond will struggle in 2007 and maybe in line to take out the wooden spoon what with the resurgence of Carlton.  Could be a long season down at Punt Rd.,  After all, they did recruit Kent Kingsley and he has already been under the knife.

A full run down next week as the season kicks off and some words by folk who think they are more expert than an expert like Digger.

Digger