Footy Tragic

A review at all eight games from an AFL Dream Team and SuperCoach perspective, running through all the heroes and villains of each game.

West Coast vs Geelong:

West Coast:

• Andrew Embley was great for the home side, continually streaking down the wing with ball in hand and delivering it beautifully into the forward line. He is in career best form at the moment, and with a functioning team around him, he is a joy to watch. His form over the past month hasn’t quite matched his early-season form, but hopefully a game like this suggests he is back and worthy of a spot in any DT or SC team in need. He is certainly a unique pick, plus the Eagles’ run home makes him even more tempting.
• Daniel Kerr had a good game, but faded a bit through the third quarter. In fact, he started the game beautifully before really looking to tire (in fact, he is now in doubt for this week). It has been great to see him in some form this year and stringing some games together – we have certainly missed him over the past couple of years. I don’t see him as an option for this year anymore, but if he can complete a full pre-season next year, SuperCoaches will certainly be considering him.
• Ashley Smith was very good again, with some good run off half-back, whilst also looking dangerous when getting ahead of the ball – kicking one very good goal and just missing another from outside 50. He is one youngster who has really impressed me in patches this year (and as regular readers of this site will attest, I love a good bandwagon!), so he is already high on my list for 2012 – the Eagles love the ball in his hands and he uses it well and with confidence – he just needs to find a bit more of it.
• Mark LeCras actually didn’t have such a bad game, although his DT & SC scores suggest his effect wasn’t massive. He actually moved into the midfield for the majority of the second half, and whilst he didn’t actually win a stack of the ball, he looked good and used it well. His price is now in free-fall after a couple of sub-par scores in a row, so will be dirt cheap in a fortnight – with an awesome run home and through the finals, he would be a great option for any forward line, especially as your 7^th forward.

Geelong:

• Cameron Ling was the best of the Cats – he astounds me though with how much he doesn’t look like a footballer (especially when playing on Pattison Stadium), as he is a slow lumberer, but this doesn’t stop him at all from making it to every contest and also looking really dangerous in the forward line. He bursts through packs thanks to his strength and typically uses the ball very well, now seemingly focussing more on being a midfielder rather than a tagger. He’s not really the type of player to consider for your team, although his recent form has been solid.
• Paul Chapman was OK for the first three quarters – he is certainly playing better than he was a month ago, but he is still not winning a stack of the ball. But he simply turned it on in the last quarter, with an epic display that threatened to pull the Cats back into the game – contested marking, good ball use and a number of clearances too. He stepped it up a gear and really showed some ‘Vintage-Chappy’ form. His past fortnight has been much better and with a late bye, I think this will actually help Chappy play out the season without another rest, so he is still a very good bye for any team.
• James Kelly was another solid performer for the Cats, especially impressing with his game-high 14 tackles. I still really like Kelly as a DT or SC option for the remainder of the year – he is still cheap (thanks to a sub-effected score a few weeks ago), but is scoring consistently well at the moment (and has been all season), seemingly taking Ablett’s midfield role from last year. Even if you like him as a 7^th mid option, he would be highly useful with the amount of byes over the next month or so.
• Nathan Vardy looks about ready for a rest now (although he only had one a fortnight ago) – since his great early games he has begun to really fade out of games and this was probably his least effective outing so far this year. Admittedly, he was up against an in-form Cox and Naitanui, but with Hawkins and Mooney both looking about ready for a senior call-up, Vardy’s time in the seniors may just about be up, for a little while at least.

 

Hawthorn vs Brisbane:

Hawthorn:

• Sam Mitchell was certainly my favourite of this game… he was probably pipped by Hodge as the best player, but I am just so happy with the sort of footy Mitch has been playing lately that he deserves first mention. He plays such good dream team footy – he wins so much ball, uses it well and works so hard if he is ever tagged. I watched him hard this game and his workrate was phenomenal, making it to just about every contest and often getting at least a handball out of every piece of Hawthorn’s play. Finished with a game-high 34 touches and 5 tackles.
• Luke Hodge, as I already mentioned, was best on ground. It is hard to go past giving Hodgey the honour, thanks to his sublime foot skills and ability to win the tough ball. He played purely through the midfield (which was great to see) and really commanded more attention than he actually received from his opponents, simply smashing them with some of his forward entries. He finished with 31 touches and 6 tackles – the second week in a row he has finished with over 30.
• Lance Franklin didn’t just get up for the game (after all the talk he may be a late withdrawal), but he very kindly handed us a ton – what a better way to apologise for last week’s score? I forgive you Buddy. He started really strong, with 44 DT points to quarter time, although he did fade through the third quarter when Brisbane put on a bit more pressure. He finished with 3.1 amongst 26 possessions (plus a very odd 6 frees for!) – it was great to see him working up the ground too, really testing out the ankle on a couple of occasions and continually coming up fine.
• Xavier Ellis played a very good game, and likely his best for some time. He has spent the majority of the year either injured or trying to gain some form in the VFL, so it would have been a real positive for the Hawks to have him come in and immediately rack up 29 disposers as an outside receiver (the perfect DT/SC role). His left boot was great all day as he continually read the ball well off packs and used it fantastically, continually hitting up the forwards. He is way too risky an option you would think, but at under $300k in DT (and just over in SC), he will be a mighty tempting option.

Brisbane:

• Simon Black was one of the Lions’ best, as he continues to show very little sign of aging – it is little wonder Vossy wants him to go again next year. He will go down in AFL history as having one of the best sets of hands ever, with some of the handballs he makes in traffic being ultra clever and accurate. He passed off one underground handball in the last term whilst under heavy pressure and it came off perfectly. He finished with 30 touches for the game, along with 7 tackles and 3 marks.
• Jack Redden is going to be a superstar of this game – well, that is if you don’t already count him as one! His body still looks to be developing, but he throws it around like a seasoned veteran, winning so much ball through a massive workrate and courage, whilst also using it very well. One of his goals from outside 50 helped to show how skilled he is outside of the packs too. Damn he will be expensive in 2012, but at this rate of development you would have to consider him for your starting team.
• Jonathan Brown is continuing to find some form with each game, although he did have a significant height and weight advantage over his opponent (Gibson) this week. In true captain fashion, he helped pull the Lions within striking distance with a massive second quarter, but faded late. Although he is in a struggling side, he is still leading hard up into the midfield to present an option, so shouldn’t depend purely on his midfielders for a reasonable score. I know a lot of people are contemplating him for a 7^th or 8^th forward spot and I don’t think it is such a bad idea, although definitely expect an up and down ride for the rest of the year.
• Patrick Karnezis was very good again and can hopefully be one of the few Lions youngsters who Vossy decides to keep around. He is a very accurate shot on goal (although his 2.3 probably doesn’t suggest that) and works very hard on the lead. He also appears to have a cool head, slotting a very important goal after the half-time siren to pull the Lions within 20 points. Was good to see he wasn’t subbed off this week too!

 

Gold Coast vs Sydney:

Gold Coast:

• David Swallow was good for the Suns and was really forced to step his game up a notch when Ablett injured himself very early in the game. Since being rested a few weeks ago, Swallow’s form has been very solid, now with his price tipping over the $300k mark in Dream Team and looking like it will continue to increase. He was a solid ball-winner for the losers, notching up 22 touches, 7 marks, 6 tackles and 2.1 – some very decent stats. With Ablett now out for a little while, it could be worth keeping hold of him, hoping his scores may increase in the Captain’s absence.
• Jarrod Harbrow was solid all game for the Suns and unfortunately the only senior member of the team to really step up to lead the team, with the likes of Michael Rischitelli and Jarred Brennan both having pretty poor games. I had a crack at Harbrow for his lack of intensity a few weeks ago, so it is good to see him now playing like he wants to be out there, not because he has to be out there. He finished with 25 touches and 7 tackles – hopefully this good form can continue til the end of the year.
• Gary Ablett’s injury was like watching a car accident in slow motion – it was pretty clear he twinged something mid-way through the first quarter and for the next half hour or so he tried to play through it, spending most of his time resting in the forward line. But clearly he was never going to be able to play out the game – especially not at the capacity that all those who had trusted him with captaincy would have hoped. Then, whilst sitting on just 23 DT points and 19 SC points, 10 minutes into the second term, we saw the red sub-vest adorning Gary’s shoulders, and it was not a pleasant site. The initial thoughts are that it is a medial strain – 2-4 weeks, although scan results will help determine whether it is any more or less serious than that.
• Zac Smith’s body looks like it is really starting to tire towards the end of this long season. There has been no doubting his awesome form this year, but quite clearly his form is probably not strong enough now to be your regular second ruckman. With Fraser out, his form was probably expected to be better, and whilst he was still good, finishing with just 10 disposals alongside his 21 hitouts was unlikely to be enough for many coaches going for league wins. Whilst I’m not saying you MUST trade him out, those with trades up their sleeve should certainly consider it.

Sydney:

• Ryan O’Keefe was the best for the Swans, despite not quite cracking the DT ton. He played through the middle and had pretty much free-reign, gathering 31 touches in a very strong display. Frustratingly though, his outside role left him with very little stats other than his kicks and handballs, only adding 4 marks and 2 tackles to his stats columns – a bit disappointing from a guy who was trusted as many coaches’ captain. That said, he played a very good game for the Swans and will certainly get the votes – he is having a great year, so there should be nothing stopping you from bringing him into your squad.
• Sam Reid was really impressive up forward, taking plenty of strong marks (including 4 contested) and kicking 3.2. He looks like a really exciting talent for the Swans and one who they can really put some time into grooming as that full-forward they have been chasing for a while. Whilst it’s too late to bring him in now, those already with him sitting on their benches will be very happy with their investment.
• Luke Parker was another youngster to impress for the Swans after coming in as an ultra-late inclusion for Jude Bolton who injured himself in the warm-up. This was only his fifth game of the year after coming in earlier in the year when Kieren Jack was injured, but this was certainly his most impressive outing, winning 26 possessions and 7 marks, taking him to his first career DT and SC ton. Whilst I don’t think he will get quite the same opportunities for the rest of the year, it was good to see another talented youngster have a breakout game.
• Adam Goodes deserves a mention for his first DT ton in 5 weeks, although it appeared to come a little harder than it should have, especially against a pretty insipid Suns. His first half was actually pretty poor, predominantly playing forward and only notching up 32 DT points. Fortunately though, he got off the leash in the last term when Bock (his direct opponent) struggled with a groin injury. He ended up with much more effect on the game and racked up 49 points in this quarter alone.

 

Essendon vs Richmond:

Essendon:

• Stewart Crameri was very good up forward for the Dons, coming back into form at the right end of the season, along with all of his teammates. He really help start the demise of Richmond with his high-pressure in the forward line, especially one particular moment against Houli, which really helped to lift his team with the resultant goal. His form has waned for a few weeks whilst Essendon has been struggling, but it is great too see him showing some of that early form again, booting 3.2 along with 18 disposals and 6 marks.
• Brent Stanton looked really good and continued on his own good recent form. He provided great run through the middle, along with David Zaharakis, and was definitely one of the Dons’ best two or three players. The Bombers really needed someone to step up in the second half and it was Stanton who did it, providing great outside run, whilst also being incredibly effective inside the packs, laying a game-high 14 tackles. Also, as it turns out, he was actually carrying a pretty significant injury throughout the period where he was being booed by Essendon fans – at least it gives some excuse for his form at the time.
• Dyson Heppell put up his second DT-ton in as many weeks, playing his regular role off halfback. With two strong games in a row, his price will continue to rise, so those contemplating offloading him soon should at least hold on a little while longer. Also worth noting is that Hird said mid-week that Heppell would require a rest between now and the end of the year, so this is certainly something to keep in the back of your mind. Finished this game with 21 touches and 9 marks.
• Michael Hurley played a fantastic game in the backline, the second week in a row that he has lined up there. In fact, Hird has admitted that whilst Hurley is a ‘Great forward,’ he is probably a better backman. Therefore, if you are still holding Hurley in your Dream Team or SuperCoach, it is probably worth looking at trade options – whilst he was super in this game, holding Riewoldt to one goal, it is not going to be beneficial to his DT scoring.

Richmond:

• Trent Cotchin was good all night for the Tigers, despite it being very much a game of two halves. He worked hard all night through the midfield, despite the fact he also copped a tag from Hocking (and it was a great sign that he was able to work through it). It has been a very good year for Cotch, and somewhat surprisingly, it has also been a really consistent one. He finished this game with 27 disposals (including a very high 22 kicks) and 9 marks.
• Tyrone Vickery battled manfully all night in the ruck after the Tigers went into the game without any other recognised big men. He actually competed very well, despite being matched up on the much bigger and much more experienced Ryder and Hille, yet unsurprisingly he did fade later in the game as he had received very little chop-out all night. Surely the Tigers will play another ruckman next week, even if it is Graham, but in the meantime, all of Vickery’s DT and SC owners should just celebrate the higher scoring potential that rucking will provide.
• Nathan Foley was very good again for the Tigers, continuing on his somewhat unnoticed season. Whilst he started the year off slowly, it really didn’t take him too long to build into some pretty decent form, averaging nearly 95 DT points since his first month of the year – definitely serviceable for a guy who started the year so cheap and having just come off an injury. Against the Dons, he was very good inside the packs, winning a team-high 6 clearances, as well as laying 10 tackles and picking up 19 disposals.
• Jack Riewoldt continues to struggle through the year, really not improving on the form that saw him win the Coleman medal last year. He battled on all day, but was just so well held by Hurley that he could simply not get a sniff. He finished with just 10 touches, 4 marks and 1.1. If you still have him, I really don’t see him being anything more than an 8^th forward.

 

Collingwood vs North Melbourne:

Collingwood:

• Dane Swan was great all day – certainly not their best – but he was still very good. He has now averaged 134 DT points since returning from Arizona – a clear sign that the trip worked, and even backed up by his own words this week when he commented that he really did need the trip. His form in this game was great as he continues to play the most beautiful dream team football – kicking 10 metres instead of handballing, running on for the one-two and even sneaking forward for an opportunistic goal – his game had it all. Finishing with 39 disposals (and a whopping 31 of them were kicks) as well as 6 marks and 2.1. Welcome back Dane.
• Scott Pendlebury will likely be the man to take home the votes on Brownlow night though, as almost every single one of Pendlebury’s disposals seem to have a real purpose, continually hitting up his forwards perfectly on the chest, or pinpointing a teammate with a great handball in traffic. He had 29 disposals for the day, despite having to deal with a tag from Firrito (who did an awful job, might I add), as well as laying 7 tackles.
• Dale Thomas was great all game, before being subbed off in the third quarter with a bit of a leg issue – and for what it’s worth, it looked only precautionary. He had his whole bag of party tricks on display and just made mockery of any North player that tried to get near him – he really is in the form of his life and it could be solidly argued that he is currently the best player at Collingwood. Now with all their byes complete, Thomas could be a legitimate trade target (which may be necessary, depending on how long Ablett will be out for) for your midfield, even if you already have Pendles and Swan.
• Chris Tarrant played full-back, and whilst this seems totally irrelevant, I thought it worth mentioning considering all the talk of what would happen to Collingwood’s structure whilst Dawes was out. As it turned out, Lachlan Keeffe just took the spot at full-forward (and strangely so did Blair…), whilst Taz stayed in his usual full-back position. For what it’s worth, Keeffe did some nice things up forward, but doesn’t really look like he will be much of a DT or SC star.

North Melbourne:

• Todd Goldstein was the best for the Roos, who really had very few players capable of holding their head high after this game. He competed well with Jolly all game, and like his battle with McEvoy last week, it was a captivating battle. I actually reckon Goldstein won on the day, winning some more of the battles within battles, as well as winning in both the hitout and possession stakes. He finished with 13 touches, but his 38 disposals are really what helped him to a decent score.
• Cameron Pederson was another to impress me in the heat of battle – he tried his hardest up forward and seems to have well and truly displaced Lachie Hansen’s spot from the forward line. He didn’t snare any goals, but in his defence, he did work as a much higher forward and competed well every time it came his way, finishing with 12 possessions and 5 tackles.
• Kieren Harper played one of his better games, and up against some very strong opposition it was heartening to see him compete really well. He looks flashy across half-forward, but also skilled, with a good head on his shoulders. The selection panel should put him down to play out the rest of the year as from this game alone he justified himself as a much better option than any of the other small forwards as North’s disposal.
• Drew Petrie was rubbish, but it was mostly thanks to the awful delivery given to him every time the Roos went forward – it is like the tactic is called ‘bomb-it-to-Petrie.’ It just doesn’t work, as we have now seen against strong defensive teams St.Kilda and Collingwood. What makes it even harder for Petrie is that Brad Scott continues to allow his opposition to play a loose man in defence, who is simply there to block Petrie’s run – it simply makes no sense at all, especially when the man chosen as North’s loose man is Scott D Thompson, who hasn’t got an attacking bone in his body! For what it’s worth, I was also particularly disappointed with the games of Matt Campbell (no touches to ¾ time), Lindsay Thomas (missed his one set-shot at goal from inside the goal square) and Shaun Atley (hardly sighted all game, again) – all should be straight into the VFL next week and not seen again for a while.

 

Port Adelaide vs St.Kilda:

Port Adelaide:

• Hamish Hartlett was the best for Port and in fact, he may even feature in the votes, despite his team being significantly outplayed all evening. Port’s main issue was a lack of flair or will to take the game on, except for in Hartlett’s case, who seemed to do all the attacking and playing on for the whole team. He was stationed across half-back and rebounded the ball with great skill all game – he has a brilliant footy brain and a great kick, and with 32 touches for the game it becomes pretty clear the sort of effect he had on the contest. But remember, he will be sent off to pasture any week now thanks to his dodgy shoulder, so don’t trade him in!
• Robbie Gray was also very good, let of the leash from any tight tag by the Saints and he was left to roam through the midfield and across half-forward all on his own. His stats probably suggest a bit more effect on the game than he had, although he did seem to have a hand in most of their inside-50s. He finished with 26 touches, 8 tackles and 1.1.
• Matt Thomas played a very good team-game for the Power, and whilst his SC score is pretty rubbish (his ball use isn’t amazing), his tenacity at the man and the ball is second to none in the Port lineup (except maybe Logan… or Cornes… oh you get the idea). On several occasions he laid goal-saving tackles and punished a few Saints for attempting to take him on. Finished with 17 touches, 8 marks and 6 tackles for the game.
• Chad Cornes came into the side and played his first game since round 6. There was obvious wonder at what role he would be handed and as it turned out, he was asked to be a defensive forward, left to man-up the birthday boy, Sam Fisher, all game. He clearly did a very good job, restricting Fish to just 10 disposals for the game. Chadly had 11 of his own touches, and 6 marks. His fate has already been sealed, in that his final game will be round 20 vs Collingwood, so there should be no thoughts at all about bringing him into your squad for one last hurrah.

St.Kilda:

• Nick Dal Santo was far and away the best player of the game, and continues to be the in-form Saint of the past month or so. Gone is his time off half-back, with Lyon now playing him permanently as a midfielder. He totally cleaned up through the middle, winning 36 disposals and using them all exceptionally well. His work rate was top notch too, especially notable considering that Port Adelaide is actually one of his bogey sides. He is still priced fairly, and with an average of 114 from his past 5 games, he could be a good unique prospect for the remaining rounds of the year.
• Ben McEvoy won pretty convincingly in the ruck, up against the youngster Lobbe. One of Port’s tactics was rather interesting though, as they continued to try and block McEvoy’s run between contests, obviously concerned about his influence around the ground and more specifically, in the air. It curbed his influence a little, with him struggling to make it to all contests, but he still managed to reach the ton, so we will take it. He finished with 11 touches, 9 tackles and 40 hitouts.
• Jack Steven was exceptional again – the Saints have really unearthed a live one here! His pace is very good from stoppages and his clearance work is also top-notch, winning 5 clearances in the first quarter alone! He continues to work all game, continuing to present a strong option on the wings or at half-forward when the Saints are attacking. He will surely finish top-3 in the NAB Rising Star this year considering his consistency in 2011.
• Sam Fisher was very well held by Chad Cornes all game, who stuck to his task for four quarters and just didn’t let up. Unfortunately for Fisher owners, Ross Lyon can quite often admit defeat when Fisher is tagged out of the game, and instead of doing everything in his power to free up Fisher, he just allows Gwilt or Gilbert to play as the loose man in defence. This is just what he did in this case, with Jimmy Gwilt practically playing Fisher’s role for the game. It shouldn’t happen every week, but unfortunately Fisher is one player whose lows can be very low.

 

Western Bulldogs vs Carlton:

Western Bulldogs:

• Callan Ward continues to make the Doggies prey a little harder each week that week that he will be staying at the kennel. His form lately has been brilliant, this week adding another BOG performance to his resume. He only got 21 disposals, but plenty of them were contested and all were used well. He was consistent throughout the game, but lifted in the third term when the Dogs mounted their charge and continued to help lead the midfield for the remainder of the game. Along with his 21 touches, he also managed 6 marks, 7 tackles and 1.1.
• Shaun Higgins is fit and firing again and damn does he look tempting at the moment, but you know the saying, ‘once burnt, twice shy.’ As a jilted ex-Higgins owner, I just can’t go there again due to his fragile body. He played predominantly off half-back again and used the ball well, probably playing one of his best game of the year. He finished with 19 touches, 7 marks and 6 tackles and if you still have him in your squad, good luck – I hope for your sake he can see out the year.
• Easton Wood played his best game for the Dogs this year – whilst he has been playing a typically DT friendly role this year, his scores just haven’t been anything amazing. So it was good to finally see him play a game which married a good blend of defensive and attacking football. Not only did he completely shut down Walker, keeping him to just one goal in the last quarter, he rebounded well and kept a cool head under pressure, managing 17 disposals, 7 marks and 6 tackles for the game. Could be a smokey pick for the remaining rounds, or perhaps just keep an eye on him for next year.
• Andrew Hooper was very poor in the first half, not actually managing a single stat til half time. Then after one handball in the third quarter, it looked certain he would be heading back to the VFL next week. Fortunately, he turned it on in the last quarter with his ferocious forward pressure skills, laying 3 tackles and kicking 2 goals. I think that considering his great fourth quarter skills, that next time he may do well starting as the sub!

Carlton:

• Bryce Gibbs was great for the Blues, doing a great job at quelling Griffin’s influence before strangely being moved off him in the third quarter. From then he spent a lot of time behind the ball and started copping a bit of tagger attention of his own. Fortunately, despite his role sounding like it would not be beneficial to scoring, he amassed a very good 30 disposals, 5 marks and 8 tackles. He has a great ability to judge when to shut down his opponent and when to into attacking mode, meaning that he is one of the few taggers capable of hurting the other way too.
• Chris Judd was very good, despite starting very slowly. He went head-to-head with Boyd in the middle and they both seemed to break even on the night. He seemed to step up a gear in the second quarter when the Blues slammed on the accelerator, and then had the challenge of trying to keep the Blues in the game after the Doggies’ big third quarter. It wasn’t a 3-vote game, but was a very good one nonetheless, finishing with 29 disposals and 9 tackles.
• Matthew Kruezer’s game was OK – he showed some good patches, but was actually very well beaten by Tom Williams who played his best game of the year for the Doggies. Kruez definitely looks better when in the ruck, with his ability to find space and then plenty of ball around the ground, but unfortunately Carlton are running with Robbie Warnock as their first choice ruckman, and fair enough too. Those tempted to bring in Kruezer should probably think twice at this stage – he has had one great game, but the others have been only average – 2012 probably promises more for the big guy.
• Paul Bower has had a pretty poor few games since returning from injury and this was no exception. He struggled to string many games together in 2010, despite showing some great form, and now this year injury has again curtailed his season. Unfortunately though, now that he has been given a chance, others seem to be ahead of him in the pecking order in defence, preventing him from playing much of an attacking role. He was also switched forward in this game when Waite went off with an injury, but only managed 14 disposals without affecting the scoreboard.

 

Unfortunately, once again by popular demand, here is the General Rant thread – this week dubbed the “@#$% you Ablett thread”

You know the rules, Please use this thread to discuss all your Dream Team and SuperCoach heroes and villains for round 16 – who let you down and who is carrying the weight of your team on their shoulders??

Also feel free to gloat about all your successful trades this week, or perhaps you may like to concede it was your fault for a player’s injury or poor score after you trades them in this week!

Please just avoid obscenities or abuse… as hard as that may be!

Enjoy!

Hey All,

Please see below for the video of Footy Tragic Episode 5! We run through all the teams, captain options and boys on the bubble, as well as checking out who the best defence options are for the rest of the year. We also check out the bargain basement options to you this week, as well as putting up a very special sales-pitch for you! Plus much more!

Remember too, you can go here for the big-screen version!

Enjoy!

Cheers

The team at Footy Tragic

 

FT ep5 from Steve Greenwood on Vimeo.

FT ep5 from Steve Greenwood on Vimeo.

WEST COAST EAGLES V GEELONG CATS

PS – Fri Jul 08, 6:40pm

Tickets | TV & Radio

West Coast Eagles

B: Will Schofield, Darren Glass, Shannon Hurn

HB: Andrew Embley, Eric Mackenzie, Scott Selwood

C: Bradley Ebert, Matthew Priddis, Matthew Rosa

HF: Luke Shuey, Josh Kennedy, Mark Nicoski

F: Jack Darling, Nic Naitanui, Mark LeCras

Foll: Dean Cox, Adam Selwood, Daniel Kerr

I/C: Thomas Swift, Ashley Smith, Patrick McGinnity, Koby Stevens

Emg: Beau Waters, Mitch Brown, Brad Sheppard

In: Patrick McGinnity, Koby Stevens

Out: Sam Butler (Quad), Quinten Lynch (Suspension)

 

Geelong Cats

B: Josh Hunt, Matthew Scarlett, Tom Lonergan

HB: Taylor Hunt, Harry Taylor, Corey Enright

C: Mitch Duncan, James Kelly, David Wojcinski

HF: Travis Varcoe, Steve Johnson, Mathew Stokes

F: Daniel Menzel, James Podsiadly, Paul Chapman

Foll: Brad Ottens, Cameron Ling, Joel Corey

I/C: Jimmy Bartel, Steven Motlop, Allen Christensen, Nathan Vardy

Emg: Shannon Byrnes, Tom Hawkins, Simon Hogan

In: Joel Corey, Travis Varcoe, Taylor Hunt

Out: Andrew Mackie (Soreness), Mitch Brown (Shoulder), Tom Gillies

 

HAWTHORN V BRISBANE LIONS

AU – Sat Jul 09, 2:10pm

Tickets | TV & Radio

Hawthorn

B: Paul Puopolo, Josh Gibson, Thomas Murphy

HB: Brent Guerra, Luke Hodge, Grant Birchall

C: Shane Savage, Sam Mitchell, Matt Suckling

HF: Isaac Smith, Lance Franklin, Michael Osborne

F: Brendan Whitecross, David Hale, Luke Breust

Foll: Max Bailey, Liam Shiels, Shaun Burgoyne

I/C: Xavier Ellis, Clinton Young, Riley Milne, Kyle Cheney

Emg: Rick Ladson, Jarryd Morton, Will Sierakowski

In: Xavier Ellis, Riley Milne

Out: Chance Bateman (Ankle), Jordan Lisle (Cheek bone)

 

Brisbane Lions

B: Niall McKeever, Matt Maguire, Jed Adcock

HB: Pearce Hanley, Joel Patfull, Ashley McGrath

C: Tom Rockliff, Simon Black, Cheynee Stiller

HF: Luke Power, James Polkinghorne, Sam Sheldon

F: Patrick Karnezis, Jonathan Brown, Ryan Harwood

Foll: Matthew Leuenberger, Jack Redden, Andrew Raines

I/C: James Hawksley, Todd Banfield, Jesse O’Brien, Bryce Retzlaff

Emg: Amon Buchanan, Mitchell Golby, Rohan Bewick

In: James Hawksley, Todd Banfield

Out: Mitchell Golby, Rohan Bewick

 

GOLD COAST SUNS V SYDNEY SWANS

MS – Sat Jul 09, 7:10pm

Tickets | TV & Radio

Gold Coast Suns

B: Karmichael Hunt, Nathan Bock, Rory Thompson

HB: Joel Wilkinson, Campbell Brown, Jarrod Harbrow

C: Trent McKenzie, Jared Brennan, Dion Prestia

HF: Daniel Stanley, Tom Lynch, Luke Russell

F: Josh Fraser, Daniel Gorringe, Brandon Matera

Foll: Zac Smith, David Swallow, Gary Ablett

I/C: Matt Shaw, Michael Rischitelli, Sam Iles, Harley Bennell

Emg: Hayden Jolly, Joseph Daye, Charlie Dixon

In: Rory Thompson, Michael Rischitelli, Harley Bennell, Tom Lynch

Out: Hayden Jolly, Jack Hutchins, Sam Day (Knee), Seb Tape

New: Rory Thompson ()

 

Sydney Swans

B: Nicholas Smith, Lewis Roberts-Thomson, Martin Mattner

HB: Tadhg Kennelly, Ted Richards, Matt Spangher

C: Ben McGlynn, Craig Bird, Jarrad McVeigh

HF: Ryan O’Keefe, Sam Reid, Jude Bolton

F: Rhyce Shaw, Heath Grundy, Adam Goodes

Foll: Shane Mumford, Josh P. Kennedy, Daniel Hannebery

I/C: Kieren Jack, Nick Malceski, Lewis Jetta, Alex Johnson

Emg: Jarred Moore, Mark Seaby, Luke Parker

In: Kieren Jack, Nick Malceski, Nicholas Smith, Shane Mumford, Matt Spangher

Out: Paul Bevan, Jesse White, Mark Seaby, Andrejs Everitt, Luke Parker

New: Matt Spangher (West Coast Eagles)

 

ESSENDON V RICHMOND

MCG – Sat Jul 09, 7:10pm

Tickets | TV & Radio

Essendon

B: Mark McVeigh, Dustin Fletcher, Michael Hibberd

HB: Kyle Hardingham, Tayte Pears, Dyson Heppell

C: Brent Prismall, Brent Stanton, Kyle Reimers

HF: Jake Melksham, Michael Hurley, Leroy Jetta

F: David Zaharakis, Stewart Crameri, Patrick Ryder

Foll: David Hille, Heath Hocking, Ben Howlett

I/C: Ricky Dyson, Angus Monfries, Alwyn Davey, Travis Colyer

Emg: Henry Slattery, Tom Bellchambers, Jake Carlisle

In: Ricky Dyson

Out: Andrew Welsh (Hamstring)

 

Richmond

B: Chris Newman, Alex Rance, Luke McGuane

HB: Brett Deledio, Will Thursfield, Bachar Houli

C: Trent Cotchin, Dustin Martin, Shane Edwards

HF: Robin Nahas, Ben Griffiths, Bradley Helbig

F: Reece Conca, Jack Riewoldt, Jake King

Foll: Tyrone Vickery, Daniel Jackson, Nathan Foley

I/C: Jayden Post, Tom Hislop, Shaun Grigg, Jake Batchelor

Emg: Angus Graham, Shane Tuck, Mitchell Farmer

In: Luke McGuane, Reece Conca

Out: Andrew Browne (Hip), Mitchell Farmer

 

COLLINGWOOD V NORTH MELBOURNE

MCG – Sun Jul 10, 1:10pm

Tickets | TV & Radio

Collingwood

B: Leon Davis, Ben Reid, Heritier O’Brien

HB: Alan Toovey, Nick Maxwell, Heath Shaw

C: Dane Swan, Dale Thomas, Sharrod Wellingham

HF: Jarryd Blair, Chris Tarrant, Andrew Krakouer

F: Steele Sidebottom, Travis Cloke, Leigh Brown

Foll: Darren Jolly, Scott Pendlebury, Luke Ball

I/C: John McCarthy, Luke Rounds, Lachlan Keeffe, Simon Buckley, Tom Young, Alex Fasolo, Paul Seedsman

In: John McCarthy, Lachlan Keeffe, Tom Young, Paul Seedsman

Out: Chris Dawes (Hand)

New: Lachlan Keeffe (Queensland U18/ Gympie), Tom Young (Wollondilly (NSW) / Sydney University), Paul Seedsman (Eastern Ranges)

Milestones: Steele Sidebottom – 50 games

North Melbourne

B: Scott Thompson, Cameron Pedersen, Michael Firrito

HB: Brady Rawlings, Luke Delaney, Shaun Atley

C: Daniel Wells, Brent Harvey, Levi Greenwood

HF: Jack Ziebell, Aaron Edwards, Ryan Bastinac

F: Lindsay Thomas, Drew Petrie, Lachlan Hansen

Foll: Todd Goldstein, Leigh Adams, Andrew Swallow

I/C: Scott McMahon, Daniel Pratt, Matt Campbell, Liam Anthony, Ben Cunnington, Cameron Richardson, Kieran Harper

In: Matt Campbell, Luke Delaney, Cameron Richardson, Shaun Atley, Kieran Harper

Out: Nathan Grima, Ben McKinley

 

PORT ADELAIDE V ST KILDA

AS – Sun Jul 10, 2:40pm

Tickets | TV & Radio

Port Adelaide

B: Tom Logan, Jackson Trengove, Cameron O’Shea

HB: Ben Jacobs, Nick Salter, Hamish Hartlett

C: Matthew Broadbent, Travis Boak, Kane Cornes

HF: David Rodan, Jay Schulz, Brett Ebert

F: Daniel Stewart, Chad Cornes, Robert Gray

Foll: Matthew Lobbe, Domenic Cassisi, Matt Thomas

I/C: Troy Chaplin, Danyle Pearce, Michael Pettigrew, Steven Salopek, Mitchell Banner, Jason Davenport, Cameron Hitchcock

In: Chad Cornes, Michael Pettigrew, Steven Salopek, Mitchell Banner, Jason Davenport, Cameron Hitchcock

Out: Justin Westhoff (Toe), Andrew Moore (Groin), Simon Phillips (Shoulder)

 

St Kilda

B: James Gwilt, Zac Dawson, Farren Ray

HB: Brendon Goddard, Sam Fisher, Sean Dempster

C: Nick Dal Santo, Jack Steven, Jason Gram

HF: Brett Peake, Nick Riewoldt, Sam Gilbert

F: Stephen Milne, Ryan Gamble, Adam Schneider

Foll: Ben McEvoy, Clinton Jones, Leigh Montagna

I/C: Raphael Clarke, David Armitage, Jarryn Geary, Andrew McQualter, Tom Lynch, Arryn Siposs, Dean Polo

In: Jarryn Geary, Andrew McQualter, Arryn Siposs

 

WESTERN BULLDOGS V CARLTON

ES – Sun Jul 10, 4:40pm

Tickets | TV & Radio

Western Bulldogs

B: Robert Murphy, Tom L. Williams, Dale Morris

HB: Lindsay Gilbee, Easton Wood, Shaun Higgins

C: Daniel Cross, Matthew Boyd, Liam Picken

HF: Callan Ward, Liam Jones, Luke Dahlhaus

F: Jarrad Grant, Barry Hall, Daniel Giansiracusa

Foll: Ben Hudson, Ryan Griffen, Adam Cooney

I/C: William Minson, Josh Hill, Brennan Stack, Sam Reid, Lukas Markovic, Andrew Hooper, Nathan Djerrkura

In: William Minson, Josh Hill, Brennan Stack, Nathan Djerrkura

Out: Ed Barlow (Hand)

Milestones: Lindsay Gilbee – 200 games

Carlton

B: Jordan Russell, Bret Thornton, Lachlan Henderson

HB: Nick Duigan, Jeremy Laidler, Christopher Yarran

C: Kade Simpson, Chris Judd, Bryce Gibbs

HF: Jeffrey Garlett, Jarrad Waite, Ryan Houlihan

F: Eddie Betts, Matthew Kreuzer, Andrew Walker

Foll: Robert Warnock, Marc Murphy, Mitch Robinson

I/C: Paul Bower, Andrew Carrazzo, Heath Scotland, David Ellard, Aaron Joseph, Brock McLean, Zach Tuohy

In: Paul Bower, Aaron Joseph, Brock McLean, Nick Duigan

Out: Simon White (Hamstring)

 

Running through all the kids about to play their 3rd game and rise in price – so who looks best for your AFL Dream Team & SuperCoach?

It looks like I drew the short straw this round with 10 bubble boys to talk about! Lately the bubble boy article has been a bit of a curse with lots of these players getting dropped the day after! I’m forecasting something similar this week to be honest, with my favourite two options in Ian Callinan (Adelaide, midfield/forward) and Mitch Brown (Geelong, forward) being struck down with injury on the weekend. Callinan will be out for 2-3 weeks with a hamstring, while Brown will be out for the rest of the season with a shoulder injury.

There are still a few good options out there however, so I’ll go through them one by one!

 

Joel Wilkinson (Gold Coast, DEFENDER)

DT: $97,600. Scores: 40, 52. Breakeven: -13

SC: $110,200. Scores: 48, 70. Breakeven: -40

I must admit Wilkinson’s surprised me somewhat with the way he’s come on in the last twelve months with his footy. At the start of the season I really didn’t rate his chances to get a game this year, but he’s worked hard and earned his place in the Gold Coast line up. He’s had a couple of run with roles in his first two games, and done quite well, most noticeably against Justin Sherman, which sparked some controversy.

Summary: I still don’t rate his job security, especially with Gold Coast’s revolving door policy. He will score solidly, but hopefully a couple of better options will pop up in the coming weeks.

 

Niall McKeever (Brisbane, DEFENDER)

DT: $92,500. Scores: 31, 35. Breakeven: 8

SC: $103,600. Scores: 35, 37. Breakeven: 1

It’s probably best to be short and sweet here. McKeever should never, ever be seen in any Dream Team or Super Coach squad. While he’s done a pretty good job in his two games, he just won’t score in fantasy land. Once Merrett comes back, he’s out of there unfortunately.

Summary: No thanks.

 

Tom Gillies (Geelong, DEFENDER)

DT: $97,600. Scores: 52, 4. Breakeven: 23

SC: $110,200. Scores: 56, 9. Breakeven: 13

To a slightly lesser extent, he’s a bit similar to McKeever. Gillies will score a little better but his position in the Geelong team is very vulnerable. At this time of the year you want bench players that you can rely on week in, week out and he just isn’t that. His score of 4 DT last week is because he came on as the sub in the third quarter. Mind you, he was a late inclusion in that game, further illustrating my point.

Summary: No, unless you are really desperate for a downgrade!

 

Alex Fasolo (Collingwood, MIDFIELD)

DT: $92,500. Scores: 51, 43. Breakeven: -20

SC: $103,600. Scores: 69, 40. Breakeven: -36

Fasolo’s shown a fair bit of the class that we’ve come to know of him as a junior in his first two games for the Pies. He’s played predominantly as a small forward, kicking a goal in each game. You’d think as long as the likes of Brad Dick and Alan Didak are out of the side, his spot is fairly safe as Malthouse does like to invest a lot of faith in his youth. Didak should be back in two weeks, so Fasolo will probably be battling out for a spot with Luke Rounds after that. Let’s hope he can have a similar impact to Jaryd Blair last year!

Summary: Considering he’s a midfield only position and the fact his job security isn’t at all guaranteed, it does make for a risky selection. He should score solidly as long as he isn’t used as a sub. It’s a risky pick that could reward you.

 

Hayden Jolly (Gold Coast, MIDFIELD)

DT: $97,600. Scores: 45, 67. Breakeven: -33

SC: $110,200. Scores: 50, 54. Breakeven: -26

I’m a big wrap for Jolly in the fact he’s an absolute ball magnet. He displayed that last week with a 20 possession game through the midfield. I think he’s the perfect example of a player you should be looking for to complete your team’s bench for the run home. He can score big, and with multiple 30+ possession games against mature bodies in the VFL last year, he does have exposed form that suggests he could be capable of that in the AFL, and we saw a glimpse of that last week.

Summary: The only thing that may work against him is the fact that the Gold Coast seem to make twenty changes to their side every week. It’s his spot to lose though, so back him in and he’ll be superb cover for the rest of the year.

 

Matthew Lobbe (Port Adelaide, RUCK)

DT: $126,000. Scores: 95, 94. Breakeven: -88

SC: $196,300. Scores: 78, 118. Breakeven: -58

Lobbe’s really come out of no where and put in two brilliant performances as the sole ruckman for Port Adelaide without Dean Brogan. Coming up against two very good ruckman in Todd Goldstein and Matthew Leuenberger, he more than held his own in the hitouts departments and around the ground. His spot now is really under no threat at all you’d think, even if Brogan does come back. His dual position eligibility just makes him all that more enticing.

Summary: If you’re yet to offload Sandilands, or you need to downgrade Zac Smith for cash purposes, well then look no further. Port has unearthed one – DPP is the icing on the cake.

 

Brad Moran (Adelaide, RUCK)

DT: $97,600. Scores: 22, 25. Breakeven: 32

SC: $110, 200. Scores: 30, 41. Breakeven: 7

In total contrast to Lobbe, Moran could not have looked much worse in his two games for the Crows; certainly nothing to get fantasy coaches of both forms excited about. If he keeps offering nothing he obviously won’t be in the team much longer, and that’s really not what you want from your bench.

Summary: No, just no.

 

Tom Lynch (St.Kilda, FORWARD)

DT: $103,800. Scores: 45, 66. Breakeven: -28

SC: $111,900. Scores: 32, 80. Breakeven: -33

He’s a much maligned player at only the age of 21, and it seems he might’ve found his ideal role at the Saints on the weekend. He’s never going to be that centre-half forward that some touted him as back when he was drafted, but what he is, is a very crafty half forward who likes to push up the ground and become a target; a very good role for Dream Team. He did that on the weekend, as well as jagging a couple of goals himself. He also hit Nick Riewoldt a couple of times lace out on the lead, so he won’t be getting dropped anytime soon if he keeps delivering like that to the skipper!

Summary: I see (and hope) him becoming an integral part to the Saints for the run home. He will score well if given the chance, so jump on!

 

Steven Motlop (Geelong, FORWARD)

DT: $103,800. Scores: 59, 54. Breakeven: -30

SC: $111,900. Scores: 60, 47. Breakeven: -28

Motlop’s season kicked off when was a late inclusion for James Kelly a couple of weeks ago, and he’s done pretty well in the two games he’s gotten an opportunity in, kicking a goal in each and providing some great forward pressure. I don’t see a long term spot in the team for him however, consistently anyway, as there is a pretty big log jam for spots in the Cats team.

Summary: Tom Lynch is a much better option, scoring wise and job security wise. Motlop also comes with his fair share of injury risks.

 

Josh Mellington (Fremantle, FORWARD)

DT: $92,500. Scores: 50, 25. Breakeven: -1

SC: $103, 600. Scores: 55, 8. Breakeven: 10

Mellington’s done quite well in his first two games, especially for a first year player, but unfortunately I see his spot in jeopardy with quite a few players to return for the Dockers in coming weeks. He’s not really one to rely on at the business end of the season.

Summary: Much better options in Lynch and even Motlop available. Pass.

Dan runs through all the action from this weekends state-league matches. Which AFL listed players are pushing for a senior game?

With Adelaide, Melbourne and Fremantle all having a bye this weekend are there any saviors for your team? Did Cam Richardson do enough to earn a recall? Maybe you desperately need Charlie Dixon, Josh Toy, Mitch Wallis or Tom Liberatore to come back this week. Failing that, are there any rookies who have shown some hot form and could be in line to debut. Let’s take a look over the 17 clubs and how their players went in state league action last weekend.

 

ADELAIDE

There wasn’t very much going on with the Crows players in reserve on the weekend with quite a few listless performances. Luke Thompson was solid in defence for WWT in a narrow loss to ladder leaders Central District. At the other end of the ground for the winners Jack Gunston played back for the Dogs and didn’t do too bad either.

Brodie Smith collected 21 touches mostly playing on a wing for WWT and might not be too far from returning. Shaun McKernan was named in the bests for South Adelaide for his role in the ruck with 10 touches and 24 hitouts rucking against Ivan Maric (four touches and 28 hitouts).

 

BRISBANE

Brisbane reserves struggled against Aspley and went down by eight goals. James Hawksley was named BOG for the Lions and was one of their only players to stand up when Aspley were at their best.

Aaron Cornelius was marking the ball well and finished the game with four goals in a solid showing. He’s been in good form in the reserves most of the year and hasn’t played an AFL game since Round 5 and will put pressure on the subbed off Retzlaff this week.

Amon Buchanan was reasonably well held, but his clearance work was still prominent and was named fourth best, while rookie listed Josh Dyson also got a mention in the best players.

Jared Polec kicked three goals and Broc McCauley had a great start to the game, kicking 2.1 in the first term, but faded badly after that.

Brent Staker played his first game on return from his LARS reconstructed knee and looked a little rusty in defence, but got through the game fine. Unfortunately Xavier Clarke didn’t make it to quarter time before having his ankle iced up – he just can’t catch a break (or maybe he catches too many).

 

CARLTON

This was one of the games I saw on the weekend and wasn’t overly impressed with too many of the Carlton listed Bullants. Brock McLean was Brock McLean. He’s so dominant at VFL level and his form really demands selection at the moment, but there’s just no room in the Carlton team.

Dennis Armfield was good in patches, but mostly frustrating. He’d do some good things, but too many bad things. His pace is such a big asset and he uses it well, but his turnovers and general game sense hold him back.

Paul Bower wasn’t bad in defence, but naturally he went off in the second quarter with what looked to be an arm injury. He did return later in the quarter, however his body is a concern. He played with that dash and didn’t fear to take the game on, which is what you expect from him.

I was surprised to see Mark Austin named in the bests. It wasn’t that he was bad, but he had no positive or negative effect on the game – he was playing on Brian Lake and the ball just didn’t go near their contest very often. Rookie listed Joe Dare was good across half back after missing the last two weeks with a thigh injury.

 

COLLINGWOOD

This was the TV game and for once I had a Saturday afternoon in front of the TV, owing to my girlfriend’s dog getting put down (R.I.P Ricky). I got back in time for the start of the game and tastefully asked if I could watch the VFL.

Collingwood fielded a very young side and the standout for me was Paul Seedsman. I hadn’t seen him play yet, as he’d missed a few weeks, but his contested marking was really good and I thought he showed a bit.

Ben Johnson had a really quiet first half, but worked his way into the game beautifully during a third quarter comeback. In all, it was a good outing from both he and Brent Macaffer. John McCarthy wasn’t too bad either.

Kirk Ugle was very lively up forward and kicked three goals. His body is a fair way off being ready for AFL and his involvements in games need to get more consistent, so don’t expect to see him in 2011, but he’s an exciting player. If anyone is going to get upgraded off their rookie list it would be Jye Bolton.

Tom Young was kept out as an emergency for the AFL game.

 

ESSENDON

Essendon’s affiliate the Bendigo Bombers had a bye.

 

FREMANTLE

While the injury list is starting to get smaller and the Dockers are having more players take part in WAFL action, there wasn’t a whole heap of big performers this weekend. Rookie listed Casey Sibosado kicked five goals for Perth. He’s had a very ordinary season and was controversially almost dropped to Perth reserves a few weeks ago until Freo cracked the sads and made sure he stayed in the seniors.

Byron Schammer picked up another 30 touches and used the ball pretty well, which isn’t something he’s particularly noted for. It doesn’t look like he’s part of Freo’s plans, but his form has been pretty good this year.

Kepler Bradley, who was reasonably stiff to get dropped was good for West Perth with 27 touches and 11 marks. It’s not all about kicks and handballs though (well, it kinda is for DT/SC coaches) but Peter Faulks restricted goal kicking powerhouse Josh Smith to only two goals.

 

GEELONG

Geelong haven’t enjoyed many wins in the VFL this year, but they smashed a hapless Frankston by nearly 100 points on the weekend. Cameron Mooney kicked five goals, all in the first half, but helped dish a few off in the second half too. It still looks like he can fill a role if required. Tom Hawkins was patchy, but managed to kick three goals in his good moments.

Simon Hogan continues his excellent return to action and was named best on ground for the Cats. His good work ethic could make him a good tagging option and he went forward to kick three, but Josh Cowan was named second best, is younger and athletically similar.

The pair of Geelong talls Dawson Simpson and Trent West were dominant in the ruck, while West also got forward and kicked three goals. Jonathan Simpkin and Jordan Schroder are two guys yet to debut, whose games drew praise.

 

GOLD COAST

There’s not a lot information coming out of the Gold Coast reserves game, Charlie Dixon kicked 11 goals…so yeah…I reckon he did alright.

Harley Bennell was very classy through the midfield and went forward to kick three goals, which is another good game pushing him closer to a senior return, so long as he turns up to training. Rex Liddy was another flashy performer, who turned heads. Daniel Harris picked up close to 40 possessions in typical Harris manner.

Rory Thompson started the year in the ruck and up forward, but has played in the backline the last few weeks and held former Richmond player Cleve Hughes (one of the more proficient goal kickers in the NEAFL) to one goal.

Gary’s brother Nathan and Josh Toy kicked two goals each.

 

HAWTHORN

Xavier Ellis returned after missing over a month with a calf injury and was very good in limited game time. Apparently he was only meant to play half a game, but he ended up playing all four quarters with closely monitored minutes and even assisted the game winning goal to Luke Lowden. Lowden himself was quite good after being named emergency for the Hawks last week. His ruck work is still raw, but he covers the ground well for a big bloke.

Jarryd Morton breathed a bit of life into his career with his best game in a long while, including a nice long goal. Riley Milne racked up plenty of touches in a variety of roles, but mainly playing across half back and given he was named emergency last week is a chance to come in this week.

Taylor Duryea had a nice game, without doing anything too stand out, but was a consistent performer. On the flipside, Derick Wanganeen showed some good signs in bursts.

Will Sierakowski was kept on emergency standby for Hawthorn.

 

MELBOURNE

Addam Maric was BOG for the Casey Scorpions, with 33 touches and five marks. He will be putting a lot of pressure on struggling Jamie Bennell for a senior spot.

Max Gawn was handy in his return to VFL action with a couple of goals in a challenging ruck battle with Hamish McIntosh and Majak Daw. The Werribee pair probably had the better in the ruck, but Gawn won his share of hitouts and was productive up forward.

Troy Davis and Tom McDonald both were named in the best players for solid roles in defence. This game also saw the return of Luke Tapscott, who made an early impression by smashing Werribee captain Dom Gleeson who had to leave the field with a head injury only minutes into the game. Tapscott had 18 touches and six marks and will be a good chance to return after the Demons bye.

 

NORTH MELBOURNE

Cruize Garlett maintains his remarkable consistency this season, with another 31 touches through the midfield. He’s been named in the best players in six of the past seven games and on all of those occasions was named in the best three for the Roosters. As DT/SC coaches we complain about Richardson not getting a game, but this guy is seriously blitzing and will poll well in the J.J Liston Medal (the last time an AFL listed player won it was Paul Johnson in 2005, for the record).

Speaking of Cam Richardson, he was not named in the best players, which doesn’t bode too well for an instant recall in what will be a week of carnage for a lot of fantasy forward lines this week.

Rookie listed defender Marcus White had his best game for the season on the comeback trail from shoulder surgery and racked up 32 touches, a whopping 14 marks and six tackles. Forward Aaron Black booted four goals from 14 touches.

As for the Kangaroos guys playing at Werribee Robbie Tarrant was in more familiar surroundings in defence and had the big job on Brendan Fevola. He kept the former Coleman Medalist to two goals and was named best on ground for the Tigers.

Hamish McIntosh and Majak Daw combined in the ruck for an impressive 46 touches and 35 hitouts (pretty much an even split in the stats). Ben Warren was tracking really well, but an ankle injury in the third term that saw him stretchered off ended his day on three goals, however the injury doesn’t sound as bad as it first appeared.

Shaun Atley didn’t play, as he was emergency standby/rested for the Kangaroos.

 

PORT ADELAIDE

The Power would be hoping for something, anything coming up from the reserves after such a disappointing season. Cam Hitchcock was their best performer on the weekend with 14 touches, seven marks, five tackles and 5.1 for Glenelg. I’ve said it before, but he needs to translate his goal kicking form to AFL level.

Mitch Banner picked up another 24 touches, along with seven marks and was pretty wasteful by foot (nothing new), but was named second best for the Magpies. Teammate Jacob Surjan had 20 possessions with three marks and five tackles.

Michael Pettigrew was named in the bests for West Adelaide and kicked a very rare goal.

 

RICHMOND

Richmond’s affiliate Coburg Tigers had a bye.

 

ST.KILDA

It was a dog of a day for Sandringham, who only managed six goals against a resurgent North Ballarat. Tommy Walsh was named best on ground for the Zebras, and although reports on his game were not glowing he played a variety of positions to show that his development is tracking nicely. You’d imagine he’ll get blooded at AFL level at some stage this season.

Andrew McQualter continues his ball winning form in the midfield, but is quite clearly purely a depth player for the Saints, while Arryn Siposs showed flashes, as he did in his handful of AFL games and kicked a nice goal, but it sounds like he didn’t get involved enough.

 

SYDNEY

Another week, another cricket score for the Swans reserves. They kicked 33 goals for the second week in a row, so really how much can you read into all of the good performances when they’re basically running competitive training drills?

Trent Dennis-Lane single handedly beat the opposition team for the second week in a row with another dozen goals including five in the first quarter (after scoring 11 the week before). This week they snuck him into fourth best after not even getting a mention last week.

Byron Sumner played in the midfield and was named BOG for the Swans, displaying a great work rate and winning plenty of the ball.

Matt Spangher played another great game up forward after being moved their last week. His marking overhead was a stand out and he also helped out in the ruck with Mike Pyke not getting up for this game.

Daniel Currie was named second best for his job in the ruck and crashing packs up forward. This is the sixth week in a row he’s been in the bests and I’d really love to see his perseverance get rewarded with a senior game. He also finished with two goals.

Nathan Gordon and Jarred Moore were good and showed their usual hardness in the contest, while Gordon finished with three goals.

Gary Rohan returned from a knee injury that had kept him on the sidelines for a couple of months, but hurt his left hammy and it didn’t look good. It appears as though he’ll be sidelined for a while longer.

 

WEST COAST

The best performers for West Coast mostly played in the Sunday game (Claremont vs. South Freo) which only leaves a five day break until the Eagles Friday night game this weekend. Beau Waters returned from his elbow injury for Claremont and had 16 touches, five marks and nine tackles, while displaying his usual kamikaze attack.

John Worsfold has talked up Andrew Gaff’s chances this week after a 28 touch, five mark best on ground display for South Freo, while Sharks teammates Callum Wilson and Gerrick Weedon were also impressive. Wilson kicked four goals from his 18 disposals and Weedon was creative up the ground, getting it 21 times, including nine marks. All four will be in line to replace the suspended Quinten Lynch and injured Sam Butler.

While West Coast had the bye the only player who had been in AFL action the previous week was Brad Ebert. Sometimes this is an indication that a player is about to get dropped, but it should also be noted that Ebert has been the sub three weeks in a row, so could’ve also been getting match fitness.

Andrew Strijk had 20 touches, six marks and kicked three goals for West Perth. Mitch Brown could also be in line for his long awaited return. His East Perth had a bye, but the rules allow players returning from injury regaining match fitness to play for the bottom placed reserves side and he picked up 21 touches for Peel reserves. For Peel Seniors Blayne Wilson and Jordan Jones were named in the best players.

With East Freo having the bye a host of good Eagles reserves had the week off, such as Koby Stevens, Chris Masten and Brad Sheppard.

WESTERN BULLDOGS

The Bulldogs affiliate, Williamstown had a comfortable win in the second vs. third clash against the Northern Bullants. Jordan Roughead and Will Minson did as they pleased in the ruck against a very inexperienced Bullants duo and both floated forward to kick three and two goal respectively. Roughead, in particular took a couple of nice pack marks.

Dylan Addison was very gutsy and along with Jayden Schofield took some nice contested marks far exceeding what you would expect from players of that height.

Nathan Djerrkura, Tom Liberatore and Mitch Wallis won plenty of ball in the midfield. Wallis had a lot of handballs in traffic to start the spread, while Djerrkura and Liberatore were named in the best players for the Seagulls.

Jason Tutt really impressed me, particularly in the second quarter when he kicked a couple of goals. He added a bit of run and carry, while his kicking in difficult conditions looked good. He’s had a good month.

Brian Lake kicked three goals and took a couple of steps in the right direction playing at both ends of the ground, but the ball didn’t really find it’s way to his contest vs. Mark Austin very much at all. Justin Sherman was very lively early, but faded.

 

Kristian runs through all the best Captain choices for both AFL Dream Team and SuperCoach. Who will you be locking in for the big score this week?

 

Well we’re to round sixteen already, and I must say it’s been a pretty good fortnight for Kristian’s Kaptains! Hopefully you all went with one of Ablett, Swan or Mitchell as your captain on the weekend in what was a HUGE round for AFL Dream Team and Super Coach!

Ablett was simply outstanding, Swan made it clear that he is officially back and Mitchell continued a run of sublime form. As predicted, Boyd didn’t quite come home with the goods, Marc Murphy still got a solid score and Fyfe and Pavlich dominated the Gold Coast.

This week it’s Sydney’s turn to play the Suns, with Adam Goodes and Ryan O’Keefe becoming two genuine options for the captaincy, but there are three standout options this week that you’d be crazy not to select, and it’s really not that hard to predict who they might be.

This week there are three teams with the bye; Fremantle, Melbourne and Adelaide.

 

SAM MITCHELL VS BRISBANE

Mitchell’s in the form of his life at the moment, and I really can’t see it stopping against the Lions at one of his favourite hunting grounds in Aurora Stadium. He’s really blossomed into the new Hawks game plan, by increasing his uncontested marks and ultimately pushing himself into the elite Dream Team bracket. He is now a genuine captain option most weeks as he’s very hard to stop, because he can play both inside and outside, so now the occasional low scores he uses to dish up in previous years should be a thing of the past. His recent history against the Lions is solid to say the least, averaging 112 DT and 116 SC in his last five encounters against them. Jump right on board!

 

GARY ABLETT JNR VS SYDNEY

When digging up the stats for Ablett’s last five games against the Swans, I was astounded. To say he dominates them would be an understatement, and considering his monster game on the weekend and the form he’s in, you’d be mad not to make him skipper if you have him. Just check out this for a form line……

127 DT & 135 SC

167 DT & 203 SC

141 DT & 164 SC

126 DT & 155 SC

150 DT & 254 SC

That right there is Gary Ablett’s last five games against the Swans at an unbelievable average of 142 DT and 182 SC! Is there really much more else to say? The guy is a machine and he’ll undoubtedly deliver for you!

 

DANE SWAN VS NORTH MELBOURNE

Well if you doubted him last week, don’t again. The man is back as good as ever, and he produced a very nice score for those who invested faith in him (me). He normally produces against the Roos, particularly in his last three games (134 DT & 135 SC), and most recently in round two, where he dominated for 162 DT and 152 SC. I wouldn’t expect the same again, but it is Swanny, so who knows? He’s a very, very good option for the captaincy this week, especially if you don’t have Ablett (me again).

 

OTHER OPTIONS TO CONSIDER……..

Personally I wouldn’t go near Dean Cox this week against the Cats, even though he’ll be fresh off the bye. He has an up and down history against the Cats and he’s up against a very good ruckman in Ottens, so he won’t have it all his way. In his last five games against Geelong, he averages 94 DT and 111 SC.

 

Paul Chapman is another guy who I wouldn’t go near this week, even though he had a very good game on the weekend and finally looked back to his best. West Coast will likely send Scott Selwood straight to him this week and he has been in very good form as a tagger so far this year.

 

Lance Franklin against the Lions is tempting (considering their depleted backline), but I really don’t like making him captain, especially since he is coming into the game under an injury cloud (calf soreness/sookiness). He has also been so up and down lately so to me it just seems way too risky. In his last game against the Lions he scored 32 DT and 23 SC.

 

Luke Hodge racked up 40 disposals against the Pies on Sunday just sitting on a half back flank. You’d think the Lions will sit James Polkinghorne on him, as a defensive half forward, so he won’t have it all his way this week. However, in his last five games against the Lions, he averages 137 SC points.

 

Adam Goodes and Ryan O’Keefe play the Suns this week. I have a feeling Karmichael will get the job on Goodes, which could be massive if Goodes decides to rock up to the game this week. O’Keefe is in the better, more consistent form of the two, so I’d be recommending him. I still think there are better options out there though.

 

Scott Pendlebury is always a good option, especially if you go by his last game against North Melbourne where he scored 141 DT and 162 SC.

 

Matthew Boyd against Carlton is risky. 142 DT and 140 SC in his last game against them say otherwise, but they’re a different team now and are one of the most restrictive in giving DT points to their opponents. He’ll get you a solid score, no doubt, but most likely not the big one.

 

Marc Murphy and Chris Judd against the Dogs should do well, but I’d really only look at them in Super Coach. Murphy averages 119 SC against the Dogs, and Judd 121 SC. Their DT averages are much lower unfortunately.

 

MY TOP THREE DREAM TEAM PICKS

1. Gary Ablett

2. Dane Swan

3. Sam Mitchell

 

MY TOP THREE SUPER COACH PICKS

1. Gary Ablett

2. Chris Judd

3. Luke Hodge