World Footy News

The Brisbane Lions were able to fast track Colm Begley to AFL football in what seemed like an impossibly short amount of time. Now it looks like they have done it again with Pearce Hanley. And the word from those that have watched his form with the Suncoast Lions this season is that he is better by both foot and hand than Begley.

The Lions would be keen to give the homesick Irishman a taste of the big time to focus on his career in his adopted sport, but selection would not be a token effort. The Lions are pushing to make the finals and have applied to elevate the international rookie to the senior list, possibly to play as soon as this Saturday against Carlton. The Courier Mail reported that Hanley has trained with the senior side this week and coach Leigh Matthews last night confirmed he was in the frame for selection. "I would like to think I'm close to getting a game, but we will just have to wait and see what happens," he said. "I have been mainly playing in the defence since I came over here but I was actually tried out on the wing last weekend and I really enjoyed it."

Hanley’s fast tracked appearance and that previously of Begley would also have to give some confidence to fellow Irishman Conor Meredith that he could also have a future with the Lions in the AFL.

Meanwhile airlines around the world are reported to be not doing so well, but AFL clubs are doing their part to keep the numbers up. Hoganstand reports that Christopher McKaigue is the latest Irishman to head downunder for a trial. The Derry Lad is believed to be in Australia for a trial with the Sydney Swans. It could be an interesting scene for him if he is at the SCG today where the Peres Peace team, consisting of Israeli and Palestinians are being hosted by the Swans.