With Santa on his way, RYAN WITHERS wonders what Christmas wishes will be made in the AFL - and if any are likely to come true?

After 10 goals last week, and 43 in his past six VFL outings, Brendan Fevola could yet resurrect an AFL career many thought was dead and buried. MURRAY MIDDLETON thinks he's found just the club for the wayward spearhead.

MURRAY MIDDLETON, an acclaimed writer and winner of The Age short story competition this year, analyses the AFL's new substitute rule - and reckons, in spite of one or two hiccups, it's here to stay.

Previewing AFL's Round 7, ASHLEY BROWNE reckons West Coast might give Essendon a bit of cheek on Sunday, is worried about Hawthorn at Port, and is enjoying the prospect of a Pie-free weekend.

With some trepidation, ASHLEY BROWNE predicts a 12th-placed finish for North Melbourne in 2011.

The AFL will announce its 2011 fixture on Friday week and ASHLEY BROWNE gets in early with his wish list, which includes some Scott-on-Scott action and a cuckolded Geelong up against the Hird-led Bombers.

Geelong has made a brave choice in naming Chris Scott as its new coach and the appointment raises all sorts of fascinating questions, writes ASHLEY BROWNE.

Hawthorn fans are trying to work out where David Hale fits into coach Alastair Clarkson's plans after the Hawks secured the ruckman/forward from North Melbourne on Friday, writes ASHLEY BROWNE.

North Melbourne is in the eight after a great win over Carlton on Friday night and the wraps on coach Brad Scott are growing by the week, writes ASHLEY BROWNE.

Rodney Eade and Brad Scott have now joined the ranks of AFL coaches who don't like each other very much. JON PIERIK recaps some of the other great AFL coaching feuds from years gone by.