Two of the Brisbane Lions' big-name recruits have impressed in a 54-point defeat of Collingwood, who ruled star midfielder Nick Daicos out in the warm-up.
After a week of turmoil Manly have stunned the dire Dolphins 52-18 in a brilliant display to give Kieran Foran a coaching debut that dreams are made of.
St Kilda forward Lance Collard will face a historic AFL disciplinary tribunal over his alleged homophobic slur as he continues to proclaim his innocence.
Melbourne lost their self-belief in the final days under Simon Goodwin last season but have rediscovered that confidence with new coach Steven King at the helm.
Nathan Lyon is on track to return from injury for Australia's next Test in August, but chief selector George Bailey admits big blocks of games may be difficult.
Former NRL star Zac Lomax is ready to go after being named on the bench for the Western Force's Super Rugby clash with the Queensland Reds in Brisbane.