Footy Tragic

Geelong vs Carlton:

Looking Good:

• Paul Chapman: Chappy was unstoppable early, racking up 44 points in the first quarter alone. It is great to finally see him play a DT finals campaign, and with Bomber’s promise he won’t rest any players, we should expect to see him again next week for WCE at Skilled Stadium!
• Joel Selwood: Selwood had a slow start, but as he tends to do, he controlled the game for large stints when it was really up for grabs. He finished with 27 disposals and 6 tackles in another brilliant game.
• Marc Murphy: If the Blues had won, Murph would have been the best player afield - he did everything he could to put the Blues in a good spot to win, racking up 30 disposals and 6 marks for the game.

Disappointing:

• Paul Bower: Bower stood Pods and lacked any sort of rebound, getting just 6 disposals for himself. Looks devoid of all confidence and is no longer being trusted by his coach either. Needs a solid pre-season and has the potential to be a great 2011 pick.
• Eddie Betts: After Betts was one of the key playmakers when the Blues beat Geelong earlier in the year, in this game he was nowhere to be seen, kept to just 10 disposals for the game.
• Gary Ablett Jnr: After looking back in form last week, Ablett was trusted as captain by plenty of coaches. Unfortunately, to ¾ time he had just 52 points to his name, causing plenty of frustrated coaches. Luckily, he banged home three final quarter goals to notch up 95 points - still not good enough as captain though.

Blip on the Radar:

• Joel Corey: Whilst many of people will be looking towards Corey as a potential Grand Final smokey, I believe that he is not worth the selection prior to the biggest game of the year. We know he is a great dream teamer, but 2010 has just about been a write-off thanks to continual problems with injuries. Fortunately though, next week will be just his 10^th game, qualifying him for a discount on his 2011 price!

St.Kilda vs Richmond:

Looking Good:

• Nick Dal Santo:
  

  Nicky Dal had a brilliant game for the DT, disposing 22 of his 36 disposals by foot and kicking three goals. He loved the freedom given to him as Richmond attempted to shut-down Goddard instead. Has had a few quiet weeks in a row so it is good to see him back in the good books.

• Leigh Montagna: At half time, Montagna looked set to break the possession record held by Robert Harvey, however he fell a few short of the record, finishing with 42 disposals for the game. Was prolific for most of the match and the Saints’ best playmaker until hurting his hammy late in the game - he should be OK for next week, although I wouldn’t be surprised if he was rested.
• Jack Riewoldt: This kid is amazing - he sealed his first Coleman medal at the ripe age of just 21 by kicking another seven goals. The Saints double and triple teamed him, but couldn’t find a way to stop his effectiveness. Once he gets his confidence, he doesn’t seem to have a pause button.

Disappointing:

• Adam Schneider: Schneids hurt his knee early in the first quarter in a marking contest and looked out of sorts all day. Very disappointing after such a great past month. He should be OK for next week, but again has the potential to be rested.
• Chris Newman: Newman was well held by Peake and was largely ineffective until he moved further forward later in the game. Oppositions seem to be working him out, so he needs to quickly learn the art of breaking a tag.
• David Armitage: Armo played his first game in a couple of months and just couldn’t get in any sort of rhythm. In fairness, he was rushed back from a knee injury, but when you cross the line you are considered right to play. Will be lucky to hold his spot next week with Hayes and Jones returning.

Blip on the Radar:

• Justin Koschitzke: Kosi kicked five goals and looked to be hitting the contests with much more confidence. Over the past few weeks he has looked to be building into some form, but it must be remembered that in this game he was playing on second gamer, Gourdis. Next week he will face Rutten, a player who regularly has Kosi’s number - don’t think you are a genius  and bring him in this week, he will only cause you pain.

Hawthorn vs Fremantle:

Looking Good:

• Shaun Burgoyne: To prove the lack of quality opposition, Burgoyne racked up a personal best 37 disposals whilst seemingly having no opponent. He also kicked four goals in a simply brilliant display, proving the exact reason why Hawthorn gave so much to recruit him. He is pure class.
• Cyril Rioli: Week one back from suspension and Cyril was gold, weaving his regular magic on his way to 21 touches, 9 marks, 6 tackles and three goals. He will find himself presented with a bit more pressure next week against Collingwood, but he at least will go into the game with some form under his belt.
• Luke Hodge: Hodge wasn’t the next best out there, but it was great to see him back hitting some form after a few down weeks. He did cork his knee late in the game, but the word is that he will be OK for next week. He got 23 touches and a brilliant 8 tackles for the game.

Disappointing:

• Mark Harvey: Seriously - what a jerk, resting eight of his best players including Sandilands, Pav, Mundy and Fyfe - all DT regulars in 2010! At least people with plenty of Hawks in their team can thank him, but I’m sure there were plenty of DT semi finals lost by his selfish display at the selection table.
• Byron Schammer: Maybe he has already been told he won’t have his contract renewed, but he looked totally uninspiring and uninspired through all four quarters. Obviously he didn’t want to use this game as an opportunity to push for finals selection.
• Wayde Skipper: The fact he rucked against a depleted Freo team and still didn’t win was pretty poor. Luckily he still got a bit of the ball, but it wasn’t enough for owners who had 211 sitting on their bench.

Blip on the Radar:

• Josh Gibson: Gibson played a great game, but the fact he was playing on Ryan Murphy (who amazingly still kicked two goals!) means it doesn’t count. Look at all the scores on either side of him and understand that in blowouts like this, anomalies happen.

Collingwood vs Adelaide:

Looking Good:

• Dale Thomas: Continued his fine form with a 26 disposal, two goal game on the half-forward line. Was one Pie who looked to give his all through the four quarters and deserved BOG status.
• Graham Johncock: His run off the backline is great and he seems to be a  very tricky player for the opposition to shut down. Finished with 27 disposals and five tackles as one of Adelaide’s best players.
• Steele Sidebottom: This was one of Steele’s better games of the year and showed his continual progression to a very good player. He hasn’t hit star status yet, but the fact he is playing in a winning culture and has been given plenty of opportunities to learn, Steele could be a great DT pick in years to come.

Disappointing:

• Kurt Tippett: He told us he was back last week, but it seems to have just been a flash in the pan. Kicked just the one goal whilst being stood by Nathan Brown.
• Chris Dawes: Dawes has been on a high much of this year, but faltered against Rutten, admittedly one of the better full-backs of the competition. Will have another hard task next week against Gilham.
• Harry O’Brien: Harry must have been a bit surprised when Young sauntered over to him pre-bounce, unlikely expecting to be given the hard tag usually reserved for Shaw. Unfortunately he didn’t perform under the pressure and the Pies looked worse for the lack of his run from defence.

Blip on the Radar:

• Ben Rutten: Rutten is a full back. Rutten sometimes likes kick-to-kick. Rutten is not the player you want the week before Grand Final. In fact, if you consider putting Rutten in your team before the Grand Final, then I want to join your league next year.

Sydney vs Western Bulldogs:

Looking Good:

• Kieran Jack: God I love this kid - if he can keep this form up and present it to us again through the 2011 pre-season, he is looking like a very good mid-priced pick. Whilst he has been a tagger for most his career, this game saw the Bulldogs send Picken on a run-with role on him, hardly stopping his influence. He finished with 25 possessions, five tackles and two goals.
• Jude Bolton: Bolton wasn’t necessarily racking in the disposals, but he certainly laid a few tackles, racking up a tally of 11 for the game. Also kicked a couple of goals.
• Matthew Boyd: Boyd was hardly prolific, but he at least fought hard, earning his regular 25-odd disposals and 7 tackles. His teammates certainly struggled against Sydney, but the great thing about Boyd is that he will always win his own ball - no need to rely on others for his supply.

Disappointing:

• Daniel Giansiracusa: Gia was rubbish - he epitomised the form he was showing prior to his recent return to the midfield. Dropping marks, playing a metre off the ball and never putting his head over the ball. He was smashed by Rhyce Shaw and did very little to be competitive…
• Adam Cooney: Did his hammy 2 mins into the game and it was night over for him after just a single handball… fortunately he was tackling someone when it went ping so he got an extra four points for that!
• Nick Malceski: Started up forward which was strange, and it certainly didn’t help his scoring. He never managed to get into the game and scored accordingly.

Blip on the Radar:

• Mike Pyke: This big score from Pyke was proof that Sydney’s gamestyle lends itself to high scores from ruckmen. Mummy’s early injury meant that Pyke rucked alone, but don’t expect him to do it often, although he did play well.

Melbourne vs Port Adelaide:

Looking Good:

• Cameron Bruce: Started the game once again in brilliant form, hitting the 50 points mark before quarter time. He was part of every scoring chain for Melbourne, finally let of the leash of playing roles, which he has done for most of the year. Unfortunately, Kane Cornes moved to him in the second term, slowing him down a bit, yet he still managed to finish with 39 disposals and 7 marks.
• Kane Cornes: Was matched up on Bruce for most of the match, but was hardly playing too tight. He himself racked up 26 touches and ran off Bruce at every opportunity.
• James McDonald: In his second last game he gave it everything he had, throwing himself into 10 tackles and picking up 27 disposals. Chances are he will have a huge final game as he says goodbye to the Melbourne faithful at the MCG next week.

Disappointing:

• Brad Green: Green played forward for all of the game, being well held by Carlile. He booted just the one goal for the game and it came very late. This was a very disappointing score from a player who has been in some very good recent form.
• Brett Ebert: Injured his knee early in the game and unfortunately it has been assessed as an ACL rupture, meaning he could miss the majority of 2011. This is a big blow to Port as Ebert was their leading goalkicker to this point of the season.
• Troy Chaplin: Chaplin again couldn’t handle the pressure of a forward tag and simply shut down. He has gone most of the season seemingly unnoticed by the opposition, but his great reading of the play and interceptions have finally gotten the credit they deserve… unfortunately.

Blip on the Radar:

• Michael Newton: Newton seemed to be included for a chance to prove himself for a 2011 contract - whilst he played OK, there was little to suggest that he was worthy of a new deal.

Essendon vs Brisbane:

Looking Good:

• Jonathan Brown: When Brown said he was 100% going to play, I took it to mean he was certainly playing. But perhaps what he meant was he was at 100% fitness as he certainly looked like it, bombing 4 goals 6 from 25 touches and a whopping 16 marks! He looked great and hopefully he can continue it into the Grand Final next week against Sydney.
• Michael Rischitelli: Brisbane must really be hoping this guy isn’t off to the Gold Coast as he has been a shining light this season - he again raked in the disposals, including plenty of contested ball. He finished with 28 disposals and 7 marks for the game.
• Daniel Rich: Rich has had a season to forget, but looked back to his 2009 best with a great display through the middle. He worked a lot harder to win the hard ball and pin-pointed it into the forward line on numerous occasions. He finished with 30 touches for the night.

Disappointing:

• Michael Hurley: Hurley stood Brown all game and was totally pantsed. He tried very hard but was regularly left one-out against Brown - a recipe for disaster.
• Mitch Clark: When Ryder was a late withdrawal, it would have been suspected that Clark would rack up the points, but unfortunately he continued his role up forward, netting just the one goal for his efforts. Four frees against didn’t help either.
• Angus Monfries: Played a defensive role on McGrath but did little attacking himself. Monfries has played this role well this year but struggled to show much form in this game.

Blip on the Radar:

• Leroy Jetta: Jetta looks to be a good player, but I don’t expect he will be much of a DTer, despite a couple of big scores this year. He played well this game but really came out of his shell late when Essendon chucked together a few last-gasp goals. He will be an inconsistent player at best so don’t be pencilling him into any teams for 2011.

West Coast vs North Melbourne:

Looking Good:

• Andrew Swallow: Once again racked up the hard ball whilst bucking the trend of in-and-under players by also kicking three goals. Nine tackles were also a great buffer for his 27 disposals.
• Dean Cox: Cox looked back into some good nick around the ground, picking up a number of stats (28 to be precise) as well as marking strongly in contests. Whilst it is a shame that his form seems to be hitting in the latter part of the year, we can at least take solace that maybe he will be able to return to his best in 2011.
• Andrew Embley: Played a good wingman’s role, picking up 33 touches. Although he wasn’t particularly accurate with his disposal, he is very good at winning his own ball, hence his large scores. He also chipped in with 10 marks, five tackles and a goal.

Disappointing:

• David Hale: Only the five disposals again for Hale - he has had an absolute shocker of a season and will be in great threat of having his contract terminated at the end of the year.
• Josh Kennedy: Kennedy was well held by Thompson and could only manage the two behinds. Unfortunately, Thompson also followed Kennedy up onto the wings, stopping him from getting disposals there too.
• Hamish McIntosh: After some good recent form, McIntosh dropped right off in the second half of this after starting well. Finished with just 13 disposals and a goal from the ruck after being thoroughly beaten by Cox and Naitanui.

Blip on the Radar:

• Scott Thompson: Thompson spent this game following Kennedy around the forward line and onto the wing, leading him to win a bit of the ball for himself. This won’t be a regular occurrence as he typically takes the forward closest to goal, but in this situation he was the only Roo capable of matching Kennedy physically.

Collingwood vs Essendon:

Looking Good:

• Travis Cloke: Cloke was dominant up forward, accurately slotting through five of his first six attempts at goal - unfortunately he then missed with his next four attempts. Regardless, he totally dominated Hooker and looked in some really good form, especially with the quality delivery coming to him.
• Jarryd Blair: Blair was a real livewire for the Pies, and I thought his form was one of the biggest positives from a night that really just looked like a routine pumping. He worked really confidently around packs and tackles hard - he will be very hard to nudge out of the team come September if he keeps this form up.
• Scott Pendlebury: Pendlebury notched up another classy game, finishing with 32 disposals and 10 marks. He is thriving without so much attention from taggers now that Didak and Swan are becoming bigger targets. His year has gone somewhat unheralded, but those who have owned him from the start have been well rewarded in 2010.

Disappointing:

• Ricky Dyson: Continually ran in to trouble and turned over plenty of ball. The Pies pressure made him look terrible.
• Paul Medhurst: Malthouse said it himself, Medhurst looked too much like a VFL player than an AFL one, meaning his spot in the team looks gone. He didn’t play with enough intensity and unfortunately for him there are better players knocking on the door to get into the side.
• Kyle Hardingham: Hardingham was allowed no room to leap by Presti, quelling him to just five disposals with no score. He could be a good 2011 option though.

Blip on the Radar:

• None: For only the second time this year, I found it virtually impossible to debate the scores of anyone from this game.

Carlton vs Richmond:

Looking Good:

• Chris Judd: Juddy is proving that his form from earlier in the year is definitely back with another BOG display. He is clearly being helped by the Blues new ‘tough-football’ mantra, which means that he won’t be the only player putting his head over the ball. He now can be fed the ball on the run and there are few footy followers who aren’t familiar with how unstoppable Judd is on the burst!
• Daniel Connors: Connors is one of the biggest improvers in the AFL this season, again leading Richmond is disposals coming off the backline. He plays with much more determination and drive than he has shown in his cameo appearances the last few years and now looks a player who will continue to deliver.
• Lachie Henderson: Deserves a mention for his best game of the year - Lachie booted three goals and set up plenty more, playing a true CHF role. The Blues certainly have a talent on their hands and he looks capable of developing over the next few years.

Disappointing:

• Bryce Gibbs: Once again Gibbs was stuck in the backline for some bizarre reason - clearly he has a good kick on him, but surely he would be better utilised playing through the middle! Especially considering his role in the backline takes away from other players such as Russell and Bower. Hopefully we can see him in the midfield next week against the Cats.
• Jack Riewoldt: Riewoldt was very well played by Jamison and only managed the two goals for the game. He looks to be slowing down after a long season, but will hopefully be back up and firing at round one next year.
• Chris Newman: Newman was held pretty tight by Robinson who gave him very little room to move all night. Fortunately though for Newman’s owners, Richmond will play St.Kilda next week, a team who love allowing a spare man in defence as it allows Goddard to be free. So don’t write him off just yet.

Blip on the Radar:

• Andrew Carrazzo: Carrazzo once again played a tagging role (on Deledio) and again proved that his DT scoring is totally shot thanks to this role. Some late junk stats helped belie his score, so don’t be holding hope for a resurgance.

Sydney vs Fremantle:

Looking Good:

• Daniel Hannebery: The 2010 Rising Star winner (Surely!) had another fantastic game, raking in a career-high 38 touches. He is becoming a master of the handball-receive and has the work-rate of a star. This kid will be great and it won’t take him too long to get there! Thank goodness Sydney finally decided to start playing their kids this season!
• Shane Mumford: Despite stating post-match that he was disappointed when Sandilands withdrew for the game, Mummy still looked like he enjoyed himself, beating up on Bradley and Clarke, Freo’s two fill-ins for big 211. He finished with 22 possessions and 30 hitouts.
• Greg Broughton: Was again one of Freo’s best, roaming between the midfield and the backline. There is no doubting this kid’s ball-winning abilities as he finished with a team high 24 disposals - he also chimed in for a goal.

Disappointing:

• Adam Goodes: It was not hugely surprising that Goodes struggled against Freo with so many bigger-boddied players whom they could play on him (Pavlich, McPhee and McPharlin - all very good opponents who would match well on Goodes). He ended the game with just 15 disposals - his lowest output in over a month!
• Stephen Hill: In a funny set of circumstances, not only was Hill tagged right out of the game by Shaw, but he ended up tagging Shaw by the end of the game as he was having the much greater effect on the game of the two. He needs a big pre-season to build his tank, and if he does he is certainly worth considering for 2011.

Blip on the Radar:

• Dylan Roberton: I like this kid, but he is being used predominantly as a dour defender - his point scoring is often coming from switching of play and hence plenty of uncontested ball. He should become a 2011 regular, but I wouldn’t pencil him in as a DT improver.

Western Bulldogs vs Geelong:

Looking Good:

• Gary Ablett Jnr: Ablett finally looked like he was playing free of burden - whilst is seems like a big and somewhat bizarre call, his return to being a straight midfielder certainly seems to be causing him to hit form. On many occasions this year it has become apparent he is not happy with some of the alternate roles given to him, but in this game he looked back to his best, streaming out of clearances, running to fifty and bombing goals. He looks to once again be captain material.
• Joel Selwood: As the Cats built momentum, so does Selwood, dominating possession through the middle with Ablett and regularly delivering the ball inside fifty with precision. 35 touches, 8 marks and 2 goals was a great night for him.
• Daniel Giansiracusa: Gia continued his midfield role and it is really where he should stay as he was once again one of the Doggies few good players. He works very hard to present around the wings and puts his head over the ball when needed. He is finally repaying all the coaches who had to hang tough over a dry month or so in the latter half of the year.

Disappointing:

• Brian Lake: Lake looked totally off the boil, losing contests to Pods and rarely looking confident enough to run off. He tried going forward late but still couldn’t muster much effect onto the contest.
• Shaun Higgins: Higgins was hardly sighted for much of the night and was rarely seen winning his own ball. He is too frequently waiting outside packs to receive the ball and against a side like Geelong, the ball is out and in their forward line before you have a chance of touching it.
• Tom Hawkins: The Cats are clearly trying to play Hawkins into form in the ruck and look settled with Mooney and Pods as their two main forwards. My guess is that they will give him another week or two and if the form doesn’t arrive, he will be out and Blake will be in. Unfortunately, this game did nothing for his chances of being in the side come finals.

Blip on the Radar:

• Dale Morris: Morris would be one of only a few Dogs who could have walked off Etihad Stadium with their head held high - he played on first gamer Menzel and it allowed him to regularly zone off, in effect playing Lake’s normal role. Unfortunately, Morris isn’t the second coming of Lake, he was simply in the right place to cover him through one very poor night at the office.

Port Adelaide vs West Coast:

Looking Good:

• Domenic Cassisi: The tackle machine racked up a stunning 14 tackles this game - 56 DT points worth! To add to that, Cassisi managed 29 disposals in a fantastic display. He is so good to watch and epitomises tough footy.
• Travis Boak: This kid is a gun - not only does he know how to win the footy (he got it 29 times), but he is very smart, knowing where to run and where to pass off. He also loves the one-two, which we certainly love in DT!
• Dean Cox: Cox didn’t star but did have a solid game in his 200^th. With Naitanui slowing down as the season concludes, Cox is able to resume more of the role he has played for most of his career. I feel this could be Cox’s last season of DT relevance though unfortunately.

Disappointing:

• Danny Meyer: I’m really not a fan of Meyer - he rarely does anything exciting, has no skills that particularly stand out, nor is he a great tackler or very good at getting the hard ball…
• Brad Sheppard: Hurt his shoulder early and hardly got into the game from there. He never particularly came along as expected in 2010 so could be a good option for 2011 if he is fairly priced.
• Quinten Lynch: The big Q-stick was held quiet by Trengove. He has been horribly out of sorts this year and if the rumours are true we will only see him in the WCE Guernsey two more times…

Blip on the Radar:

• Matt Thomas: I was really happy to see Matty given more freedom in this game - without the restraints of an opponent he was able to rampage through the middle, winning plenty of ball and tackling anyone in his way. It could be a real sign of things to come from a player typically given tagging roles in his few seasons at the club. I wouldn’t be jumping on now in fear it is a one-off, but certainly keep one eye on his pre-season next year.

Brisbane vs Adelaide:

Looking Good:

• Richard Douglas After hitting a bit of a dry spell over the last month or so, Douglas bounced back with great timing for his owners with a 31 disposal, two goal game. The early injury to Vince certainly helped him as he moved back into the middle after starting in the forward line. Hopefully he can complete the season in similar fashion.
• Kurt Tippett: Finally, Tippett kicked a winning score with five goals for the game. Giving further credit to him, he was competing against Daniel Merrett - a player certainly capable of holding his own one-one-one. Don’t be getting excited for the last two games (he has Collingwood and St.Kilda left), but maybe 2011 could be the year 2010 was meant to be.
• Mitch Clark: Clark filled the big hole up forward vacated by the injured Brown and Fevola and he performed very well, booting five goals. With Charman returning (I’ve heard that before) next year, perhaps we will see more of Clark up forward in the future - the position he was initially drafted to play.

Disappointing:

• Chris Knights: After talking him up as a risk, but one with a huge upside, that risk clearly proved too heavy to burden when he pulled his hamstring only minutes into the first quarter. For those looking for positives, this will leave Knights’ 2010 average sitting on 66.8, meaning he will be dirt-cheap come DT 2011.
• Bernie Vince: Another Crow to fall with injury early on, Vince hurt his knee in the second quarter. Scans during the week will determine whether or not we will see him again this year.
• Jed Adcock: Adcock is one of the hardest players to read - he is good at DT, then gets injured, returns and is bad at DT. He plays midfield and is OK, but is better in defence - sometimes. I don’t get it and I’m not even going to attempt to explain it…

Blip on the Radar:

• Jason Porplyzia: This was one of the porpoise’s better games for the year, but I still wouldn’t say he’s is in good touch. He has had such a poor year after a breakout 2009 and his spot in the team is far from locked away. Look at him next year if you like, but he isn’t worth the risk at this stage of proceedings.

Melbourne vs Hawthorn:

Looking Good:

• Shaun Burgoyne: Burgoyne was the driving force for the Hawthorn midfield, but as can unfortunately be the case with Burgoyne, he only required 23 touches to have this dominance - proof that he more a Supercoach player than a Dream Teamer.
• Cameron Bruce: Bruce was scintillating in the last quarter for Melbourne, but it wasn’t enough to get them across the line. He finished with 26 touches and 9 tackles for the game.
• Colin Sylvia: Another great midfield performance from Sylvia - despite copping a tag he was still Melbourne’s most consistent performer across all four quarters, finishing with 25 disposals and 8 tackles.

Disappointing:

• Aaron Davey: Unfortunately injured his leg early - the early signs aren’t good with it being a suspected broken leg, putting him out for the remaining rounds.
• Jarryd Roughead: Roughy kicked two goals but did little else in the Hawks win. Despite many questioning last year whether he would be better than Buddy, I think the answer is pretty clear - the guy is a great full forward, but shouldn’t be expected to do too much more than that.
• Liam Jurrah: After his huge game last week he just couldn’t back it up, kicking just two goals and having only 8 possessions - proof that despite being a prodigious talent, he ain’t no dream teamer.

Blip on the Radar:

• Xavier Ellis: We know how talented he is, but at the same time he is hugely inconsistent. There have been games this year where he has scored nearly 50 points in one quarter, only to finish with 10 more points for the game - he is capable of winning plenty of ball, but we need to see it more consistently before considering him for out dream teams.

North Melbourne vs St.Kilda:

Looking Good:

• Nick Riewoldt: Roo seems to be getting better and better with each week - in this game he was jumping and leaping at full speed for the first time since returning from his injury, suggesting he is now mentally over his injury. He kicked a whopping seven goals and was the difference for plenty of dream teamers between a win and a loss this week.
• Brendon Goddard: Continued his role deep in defence as a quarterback, sweeping up any stray balls that entered the St.Kilda defence. He is so versatile - as soon as the Roos started paying him attention in defence he moved to the wing or on a forward flank. Ended with 37 touches and 8 marks.
• Adam Schneider: Continued his midfield/half-forward role of the past fortnight and again played very well, racking up 20 disposals, 10 marks and 7 tackles. It is not too late to jump on this late season smokey - he is showing no signs of slowing down yet.

Disappointing:

• Ben Warren: He has a poor work-rate and it is no wonder Brad Scott keeps sending him back to the VFL. He is great in the air and when the ball comes to him, but as soon as it leaves his vicinity he goes back to sleep.
• Lindsay Thomas: I feel like he has been in this column every week since his 7-goal performance a couple of months ago… maybe that was just an aberration… maybe he is just rubbish…
• Leigh Montagna: The past couple of weeks have seen Joey given plenty of physical attention from the opposition - they rough him up and double-team him, knowing that will likely slow him down, and unfortunately it does. He looks in need of a rest, so lets just hope that Lyon doesn’t decide this is the week to do it with finals now at win-or-die levels.

Blip on the Radar:

• Sam Wright: I liked this kid’s game - he seems to have really matured this season and we are beginning to see the results of his hard work. Don’t jump the gun this year, but next year could be a really good time to have another look at him.

Carlton vs Essendon:

Looking Good:

• Jeff Garlett: Garlett was brilliant as the Blues’ main avenue to goal and was able to slip around the packs, landing himself a career-high six goals. It isn’t form I’d expect him to show in every game, but it is really pleasing to see what the kid is capable of!
• Brent Stanton: Stanton was again a fantastic DT-slut through the game - despite not being in amazing form, he still manages to rack up the ball week to week. I am slightly concerned about his spot in the team (Knights keeps giving him ‘jobs’ - the first sign that Knights is trying to teach him a lesson), but as long as he plays he will rack them up!
• Chris Judd: Judd had a real return to form after a couple of quiet matches recently. I think the inclusions of Hadley and Robinson have really helped Judd around the clearances as he is not the only one left to win the contested ball. Finished with 28 touches and 5 tackles.

Disappointing:

• Jordan Russell: Monfries gave Russell the forward-tag treatment and he didn’t cope… again. He is still young and seems like a player capable of beating a tag moving forward, but perhaps he is a speculative pick in the remaining rounds.
• Cale Hooker: I talked him up last week after a super game on Riewoldt, but he was back acting as a dour defender this week, picking up just the 8 touches.

• Bachar Houli: Another player to have a breakout game last week, Houli was not so impressive this week. The lesson learned is to give younger players time before trading them in - and a similar lesson should be given to Knights about dropping them.

Blip on the Radar:

• Richard Hadley: He is that potential smokey to rack up some good numbers in the remaining rounds this year, but I still don’t like his prospects of staying in the team for the remaining rounds. Also, he is probably every chance to do his hamstring or something!

Sydney vs Hawthorn:

Looking Good:

• Heath Grundy: Grundy was brilliant, playing both a negating role on Franklin and a rebounding role out of the back half, racking up 32 disposals and 11 marks in the process. He has been very inconsistent lately, so hopefully he can back this up over the next few weeks.
• Kieren Jack: Jack was a clear BOG for mine - his ability to find space, combined with his sheer willingness to win the hard ball, then hunt the opposition when they had it was simply brilliant. He reminds me very much of one of my favourites - Lenny Hayes - and is continuing to get better. Could be a huge DT improver for 2011 - watch this space!
• Lance Franklin: All credit to Buddy - he continued to lead hard all the way to the final siren, despite his team being totally flogged. To me he has always seemed like a player who would turn the engines off when the game was lost, but fortunately, his continued presenting created opportunities for three late goals.

Disappointing:

• Simon Taylor: When Sandilands was deemed unfit to tackle North Melbourne, it is fair to say there was plenty of devastated dream teamers. Then when thousands of those coaches got wind that Skipper was dropped for Taylor, the week went from bad to worse. Unfortunately, Taylor played a dud of a game, rubbing salt into the wounds of pissed off Skipper owners.
• Rhyce Shaw: When Shaw does get a chance to run out of the backline he does look very good and confident, but the problem is the minimal times he does actually rebound. With Malceski and Kennelly both in the squad, he often finds him self just defending rather than rebounding.
• Clinton Young: I am making an example of Young here as he was one of the worst of Hawthorn’s midfield, which as a unit played really poorly. All of Young, Hodge, Sewell, Ellis and Osbourne had afternoons to forget.

Blip on the Radar:

• Lewis Jetta: There was not a person at the SCG not willing this kid to kick his first AFL goal after kicking 19 behinds in a row in his first year of AFL football. After finally kicking that magical goal in the last quarter, Jetta’s performance has become part of folklore - but don’t be distracted - that is an accuracy rate of 5% for the year…

North Melbourne vs Fremantle:

Looking Good:

• Brent Harvey: Harvey had a brilliant ‘tick-every-box’ game, with stacks of stats in every column. Despite an apparent tag from Van Berlo, Harvey ran rampant, racking up 34 touches, 8 tackles, 9 marks and kicked 3 goals - awesome stuff!
• Brady Rawlings: Rawlings has had a brilliant season, following the current trend of taggers capable of winning their own ball. Here, he not only clearly smashed Hill, but racked up 39 disposals of his own. His workrate is clearly amazing and he is a player who typically works very hard for each of his touches.
• Hamish McIntosh: In a week where Sandi went down, Big-Mac stepped up, taking advantage of Freo’s depleted ruck stocks. He tallied up 26 touches, 11 marks and banged through two bonus goals.

Disappointing:

• Stephen Hill: As stated above, he was smashed by Rawlings and had absolutely no impact on the game.
• Matthew Pavlich: Just the solitary behind from the Freo skipper was not a good way to get his troops firing. Was regularly beaten in the forward line and rarely ventured into the midfield.
• Lindsay Thomas: Thomas was about the only Roo who didn’t join in the party. Disappointing.

Blip on the Radar:

• Leigh Harding: Leigh Harding is probably the main reason why I have a column called ‘Blip on the Radar’ after he sucked in so many coaches last year with a string of good games to start the season, only to fall away with inconsistency and low scoring. Once bitten, twice shy - don’t go there again!

Collingwood vs Geelong:

Looking Good:

• Alan Didak: The bonus of big games like this is that teams will tend to only tag one or two key individuals - fortunately for Didak, Pendlebury copped the Ling tag, allowing him to run much more freely than he has all year. He continued his good recent form with 35 touches, 8 marks and a goal, playing predominantly as a midfielder.
• Dane Swan: We questioned whether he could do it against the best, and those who avoided making him captain deserved to miss out on the massive score he produced once again. Never doubt the Great Dane - NEVER!
• Dale Thomas: This game was another big test for Daisy, a player who is known for fading on the big stage. Fortunately, he stuck it in his doubters faces with a 23 disposal, 7 tackle game, further asserting himself as a great player.

Disappointing:

• James Podsiadly: For the second time this year, Pods has failed on the big stage. He booted just the one goal and looked out of his depth. Many seem to be trading him off now, and personally I believe that this is probably the right thing to be doing.
• Leon Davis: Davis, once again, failed to make any impact, kicking just the 2 behinds. He can’t cope with a lack of space in the forward line and doesn’t seem prepared to work hard enough to create space.
• James Kelly: Kelly has had a super consistent year in 2010, but got caught spending too much time chasing his opponent than winning a kick unfortunately. He did finish with 20 disposals, but most of them were handballs.

Blip on the Radar:

• Brent Macaffer: I think Macaffer shows a lot of spark and a lot of potential to be a really good player in the years to come. However, at this time of year the last thing you want to do is gamble on a mid-priced 20-game player who is no guarantee of seeing out the season.

Brisbane vs West Coast:

Looking Good:

• Scott Selwood: Selwood has been getting gradually better and better this season, and personally I have seen a few of his games as potential one-offs. But full credit to the kid, he worked really hard in this game and looks to be pushing himself to a new level. He finished with 28 disposals, 8 marks, 8 tackles and a goal. Could be a great pick for 2011.
• Jonathan Brown: Brown wasn’t brilliant all game, in fact he was far from his best, but as Brown has a habit of doing, he stood up when it counted, booting the goal that won the game for the Lions. He finished with five goals from 10 marks and 15 disposals for the game.
• Michael Rischitelli: Rischitelli seems destined for his first Lions B&F, as he has clearly been their most consistent player this year. Again he was their strongest midfielder, finishing with 29 disposals and 6 tackles.

Disappointing:

• Aaron Cornelius: Took Fev’s spot in the team and scored Fev’s mandatory 15 points. Deserves to keep his spot though on previous performances alone.
• Brad Ebert: Ebert is starting to find life a little harder thanks to the newfound attention from taggers. He couldn’t break through the tag and finished with just 10 disposals.
• Mark LeCras: LeCras has been brilliant this year - especially over the past month since booting 12 goals against Essendon. Unfortunately, he now seems to put it on himself to kick all of his teams goals, meaning he rarely passes anything off to his teammates. He finished with two goals here, but needs to learn to be less greedy sometimes.

Blip on the Radar:

• Joel Patful: Patful is a bit of a floater (or ‘Utility’ in AFL lingo) - and this season has mainly seen him drift between defence and as a tagger. Now, with Maguire back he has moved into the midfield to play tagging roles, but don’t always expect them to be point-winning roles. He is a highly inconsistent DTer and not worthy of a spot in your team.

St.Kilda vs Port Adelaide:

Looking Good:

• Adam Schneider: Schneids was on fire in this game - he not only bobbed up for three goals, but alongside Riewoldt he totally marshalled the half-forward line, touching the ball almost every time it went forward. His current role sees him playing through the midfield in bursts to lose his opponent before dropping forward and providing an option. Racked up 30 possessions, 13 marks and 5 tackles.
• Lenny Hayes: Hayes had another terrific game, tackling anyone that went anywhere near him. He was the best midfielder on ground, constantly finding space (he was constantly left alone as TWO port players were tagging Montagna…), as well as providing an option up forward, kicking two goals for the game.
• Sam Gilbert: Gilbert had one of his best games for the year and had a new sense of determination after having little effect on the past few matches. He finished with 21 disposals, but his 7 tackles were highlights - all made to hurt. He is playing with a newfound aggression and it is fantastic - Lyon is also rewarding him with brief stints through the midfield.

Disappointing:

• Danyle Pearce: As usual, Pearce resigned to his tagger about halfway through the first term and was as comprehensively beaten as any other time this year.
• David Rodan: Rodan has the ability to tear the Saints a new A-Hole - and he knows this! Yet still, he gave into the tag early and did very little to break it, rarely running to space or properly presenting.
• Nathan Krakouer: Whilst the above two couldn’t stop from being shut-down, Krakouer did one of the worst shut-down jobs of the year, letting Schneider off the leash way to frequently, whilst only picking up 11 touches himself.

Blip on the Radar:

• Jason Blake: When Blake is going for runs up the wings, you know your side is being smashed. Blake is in the bottom few in the AFL for metres gained from kicks, proving he is not an option regularly used when the Saints move forward. He does enjoy kick-to-kick and there was plenty of this late in this match.

Melbourne vs Richmond:

Looking Good:

• Liam Jurrah: Jurrah played one of his best games for the club, igniting them across the line with four goals. He was at his high-leaping best, pulling in 8 marks from 17 touches. He doesn’t play a game-style very suitable to DT though, so don’t be too expectant of this sort of score happening too regularly.
• Brad Green: Green continued on his great season with another fantastic game, kicking three goals in his high half-forward role. Melbourne have a good run home so could be a good smokey for some reasonable scoring over the next month.
• Ben Cousins: Cousins once again turned back the clock with a great midfield performance. He not only clocked up an impressive 26 touches, but also drifted forward for two goals.

Disappointing:

• Jack Riewoldt: Riewoldt was smashed all day by Frawley, who was constantly able to beat him in one-one-one contests - something that Riewoldt has been fantastic at all season. He kicked just the one goal for the game in a sign that he may also be tiring after a long season.
• Ben Nason: Nason not only had just the 9 touches, but his four frees against ensured he had a terribly low score.
• Mark Jamar: Jamar competed well in the ruck but did very little else around the ground, picking up only 5 disposals for the game.

Blip on the Radar:

• Kelvin Moore: Moore has been an occasionally big scorer this year with some large numbers like 109, 90, 86 and 93… however these numbers are littered with other scores like 21, 33, 41, 31 and 26. Simply, he is a defender that occasionally gets a forward lacking much defensive pressure (e.g. Jurrah), meaning he is much more capable of zoning off for loose ball. Therefore, unless if you also like the look of those lower scores, stay well clear.

Western Bulldogs vs Adelaide:

Looking Good:

• Daniel Giansiracusa: Gia played much more in the midfield, allowing him to rack up his third ton in a row. He played a very good game, tackling hard and working hard to get into space. He did also drift forward on occasion, allowing just the one goal on this occasion. He also had 30 touches, 9 marks and 6 tackles for the game.
• Scott Thompson: The Crows midfield actually appeared to be on top for most of this match and it was well led by Thompson, who already had 20 disposals to half time. He finished with 33 disposals, 5 marks and 7 tackles for the game - hopefully he can continue this on, despite the Crows finals hopes being shut out thanks to this loss.
• Brad Symes: Symes was a general across half-back, alongside Johncock and Bock, both of whom were also very influential. Symes stood out as the main rebounder of the three and his 11 tackles were also a highlight.

Disappointing:

• Barry Hall: Jack Riewoldt would have been one of the few happy watchers when BBBBBBBH didn’t kick a single goal all game, leaving Riewoldt one goal clear in the race for the Coleman medal.
• Lindsay Gilbee: Gilbee had a night I’m sure he will prefer to forget, not only for being kept relatively quiet by Douglas, but also due to him turning it over almost every time he did actually get a chance to dispose of the ball.
• Taylor Walker: Walker kicked no goals for the whole game, with Henderson seemingly taking over his role at the half-forward line. Needs to find some form and fast.

Blip on the Radar:

• Ben Hudson: I don’t know what it is about Huddo, but he loves playing in the rain - he always seems to rack up some decent numbers in this sort of weather. But despite this, he is not the big man for your team. Whilst consistent, he never scores enough to figure in DT calculations, sorry.

St.Kilda vs Essendon:

Looking Good:

• Jobe Watson: As usual, he cut a swathe through the Saints midfield, and despite carrying an injury into the game, he totally dominated. He racked up 30 disposals, 7 marks and 5 tackles for the game at his hard-at-it best.
• Heath Hocking: Hocking was brilliant down back, holding Riewoldt to only two goals. Not only that, but he ran off him and repeatedly beat him one-on-one, finishing with 30 possessions and 9 marks for the game.
• Jason Gram: Gram is now finally back at his ball-winning best, racking up 35 disposals playing as a backline sweeper - more a role which he played in 2008 to much effect. He will get plenty of the ball playing here and is currently priced to clear!

Disappointing:

• Sam Fisher: Suffered the forward tag from Monfries and was not only held pretty quiet, but was also pretty well beaten by his man, with Monfries kicking four goals for the game.
• Kyle Hardingham: After a super debut last week where he kicked four goals, he was much quieter against the Saints, kicking just two goals from limited disposals. He should stay in the team, but it has proven his is not quite the next Barlow as some have suggested.
• Tom Lynch: This isn’t meant to be ‘pick on the new kid,’ but I was less than impressed by Lynch’s debut. I, more than anyone, was excited about his debut game, but he just looked lost on the field for large chunks of the game, missing a couple of gimmes, as well as letting his direct opponent, Fletcher, rack up 24 disposals as one of the best players on ground. Will hopefully get another chance but I wouldn’t be holding my breath.

Blip on the Radar:

• Michael Hurley: Hurley was solid down back, but plenty of his stats came uncontested in the Bomber’s backline. He proved in 2009 that he could be a good dream teamer, but this sort of game appears to be a bit of a blip on the radar to what he has typically been scoring in 2010 in similar roles.

Collingwood vs Carlton:

Looking Good:

• Scott Pendlebury: After a bit of a slow start, Pendlebury really turned it on through the middle, chopping up the Blues midfield on his way to 34 touches. I’m sure I have said it before, but Pendles is fast becoming a DT star in 2010, after being more predominantly a Supercoach selection in years past.
• Dayne Beams: I love the forward role that he plays - he is fantastic at receiving the ball around the flanks, then it is not so much his goal kicking that stands out, but his forward entries - he is brilliant at hitting his teammates on the chest again and again. Hence, he will continue to get the ball delivered to him, allowing him to rack up big DT numbers like this one.
• Alan Didak: Didak’s form has been great recently and he continued it here in full force, kicking two goals from his 31 disposals. The real bonus with Didak is his love of kicking the ball, meaning most disposals are worth 3 points to you rather than 2.

Disappointing:

• Eddie Betts: Betts never got into the game and kicked his solitary goal when it was all over. He has been in good form this year, but can be as inconsistent as buggery!
• Andrew Carrazzo: Attempted a tag job on Swan but was simply wasting his time. Unfortunately, he forgot to get much of the ball for himself, only finishing on 18 touches for the game.
• Paul Bower: Bower owners would have been happy when he started the game strongly, leading the way at the 10 minute mark of the first quarter, but unfortunately he did very little after that, scoring just the 10 points after half time, further ridiculing those who picked him.

Blip on the Radar:

• Chris Johnson: Like many of his teammates around him, I thought Johnson was quite average. He has shown very little since famously crossing over from the Blues at the end of 2008. He plays roles in the backline and on the wing and in this game was able to pick up a bit of ball. Don’t rely on him to do it frequently, nor should you be expecting him to consistently hold his spot in the team.

Port Adelaide vs Hawthorn:

Looking Good:

• Jay Shultz: Shultz was sensational up forward, marking everything that came his way, including plenty that will feature on the week’s highlights reel. He finished the game with four goals, all of which came at key stages of the match.
• Justin Westhoff: Not wanting to be out-done, Westhoff’s marking was equally thrilling, with a really strong set of hands and a large wingspan both features of his arsenal. He only kicked one goal, but set up plenty more with his work around CHF. Looks like having a true breakout year and could really be anything if he puts his mind to it.
• Domenic Cassisi: Cassisi did the same thing that he does every week - plenty of contested ball, stacks of tackles and a bonus goal. He has had a great season and is really taking leadership of the side, especially since the arrival of Primus. Will go head-to-head with Lenny Hayes next week which will be an awesome battle.

Disappointing:

• Luke Hodge: Hodge finished with 18 disposals for the game but none of them had any effect on the game. He simply couldn’t break the Kornes tag and got very little support from his teammates.
• Jarryd Roughead: Roughy looked back in form last week against the Saints, but just couldn’t get near it this week, being well held by youngster Trengove. He shouldn’t be a DT option to consider anyway.
• Nathan Krakouer: This was Krakouer’s first game back from injury and it certainly showed. He didn’t want to work hard to get anywhere and is practically a write-off as an option for the rest of the season.

Blip on the Radar:

• Brent Renouf: Renouf had a game out of the box, kicking two goals and featuring as one of Hawthorn’s best midfielders for the game. This could be a sign of things to come, yet not necessarily this year.

Sydney vs Geelong:

Looking Good:

• Steve Johnson: Stevie booted a very accurate six goals straight from 25 touches and looks to be back into some form after missing a few games with suspension. The worry is whether his inconsistency virus will hit again mid-finals. At least we know he won’t be rested thanks to his recent suspension.
• Gary Ablett: His revised role of midfielder/forward seems to be revitalizing him a bit by allowing him to spend time hunting his own ball up forward. He finished here with three goals, whilst his 29 touches were certainly serviceable.
• Adam Goodes: Continued his recent good form, booting another three goals and picking up 22 disposals playing predominantly as a forward. His run through the middle over the past few weeks certainly seems to have revitalised him and hopefully he can carry this form through the finals.

Disappointing:

• Rhyce Shaw: Played mainly forward again but had absolutely no effect on the contest, finishing with just 9 disposals.
• Heath Grundy: After looking like he has returned to DT form over the past few weeks, Grundy has returned to his defensive ways, killing his point scoring once again. Bugger.
• Paul Chapman: Whilst he was far from shocking, a knock to Chappy’s knee early in the game saw him struggle a bit throughout. What are the chances he will sit week one of the finals on the sidelines AGAIN!?

Blip on the Radar:

• Cameron Mooney: Mooney is a good player - a good player made to look better thanks to the team he plays for. Ideally, playing for Geelong he should be able to kick 3-5 goals a game and average around 90 DT points, but it is just not him - never has been, never will be. Occasionally he will have a big game or two, but it should be far from expected.

Brisbane vs Melbourne:

Looking Good:

• Colin Sylvia: Sylvia was terrific once again! Finally those who have held tight through a long season are reaping the rewards. He once again played through the middle and rested up forward, helping himself to 31 touches, 9 marks, 8 tackles and 2 goals for the game.
• Mitch Clark: Spent little time up Ruck and moved up forward when Fev injured himself early. Whilst he only kicked three goals, he did get plenty of the ball, ending up with 28 disposals and 12 marks.
• Tom Rockliff: He needs another mention for getting another DT ton. Despite giving away two very costly penalties late in the game, he otherwise had a great day, picking up 30 disposals and 5 tackles for the game. Vossy loves him and he shouldn’t miss any of the remaining rounds barring injury.

Disappointing:

• Xavier Clarke: You had to feel for the guy when he pulled his hamstring only a quarter into his comeback match from an ACL injury. Clarke has a horrible history of hammy injuries and if Voss was smart he wouldn’t play him again this year.
• Jonathan Brown: Brown briefly looked like he was going to fire his team for a big win but he unfortunately waned along with the rest of his team. He seems to be improving, but at no huge pace unfortunately.
• Liam Jurrah: Looks to still be adjusting to the pace of the game with a limited fitness base. He is still in Melbourne’s best-22, but don’t be expecting any huge hauls between now and the end of the season.

Blip on the Radar:

• Jared Rivers: Floated around the backline, mainly playing on Clarke who enjoyed floating in and out of the attack, often leaving Rivers unattended. He finished with 12 marks for the game - most of which were uncontested - a clear sign that he won most of his points through kick-to-kick.

Richmond vs Adelaide:

Looking Good:

• Shane Tuck: Tucky did what he did best - won sh#t-loads of ball whilst also tagging Thompson. Whilst Thompson still had a good game, Tuck himself finished with 33 touches and 10 tackles. If you dare pick him he is a super DTer.
• Chris Newman: Showed his young opponent, Jaensch absolutely no respect, zoning off him at every opportunity, working himself to 26 possessions in the backline.
• Bernie Vince: Vince was Adelaide’s best and was for once given little opposition attention, allowing him to reach such a lofty number. He is becoming better at winning his own ball and finished with 26 touches for the game.

Disappointing:

• Ricky Henderson: After several sizeable scores in a row we are beginning to count on him for similar numbers, so when he doesn’t produce them he is therefore ‘disappointing.’ Was going well til half time when he took a knock to the leg - he played on, but with much less effect.
• Kurt Tippett: Well… that good form he appeared to be coming into seems to have left him pretty quick. Another solitary goal in a losing Adelaide team.
• Ben Nason: Nason typically thrives in the wet, but just couldn’t get into the game at any stage. Bobbed up late for a behind, but that was about all we saw of him for the match.

Blip on the Radar:

• Scott Stevens: Stevens got the pleasure of manning first gamer, Hicks, meaning that he was regularly left to rack up plenty of ball. Typically he is a dour defender and nothing more, but the inexperience of his opponent allowed him to find plenty more cheap kicks.

Melbourne vs Sydney:

Looking Good:

• Matthew Boyd: Boyd plodded along til half time when he absolutely exploded, racking up 93 points in the second half alone. As usual, he dictates his own stats sheet, winning all of his own ball. He is in super form, Captain form in fact. He is the mid you want if you are chasing one at the moment!
• Brian Lake: Lake matched himself up on Wright and it was no surprise he chopped. He finished with another whopping 15 marks and 27 touches.
• Sam Wright: Wright was Lake’s direct opponent and he used the space allowed to him to the best of his ability. He ended with two goals and racked up 21 disposals in his best game for the year.

Disappointing:

• Lindsay Thomas: Thomas battled again and had no effect on the game. It is such a shame after we saw what he can be capable of a few weeks ago.
• Shaun Higgins: Although scoring 73 points, Higgins was the fourth lowest scorer for the Bulldogs. His form this year has simply not been consistent enough - he too regularly scores around 70 points and never much more. A real shame after such a good breakout season last year.
• Ryan Bastinac: Brad Scott showed that Bastinac was out of favour by dropping him in the lead up to this game, but he got his recall when Campbell was a late withdrawal. Unfortunately, his form was lacking and I wouldn’t be surprised if he was dropped again for next week.

Blip on the Radar:

• Sam Wright: Unfortunately, he won’t be playing on Lake every week. Therefore don’t be expecting too many tons from the kid for the remaining rounds. He is a good future prospect though.

Fremantle vs West Coast:

Looking Good:

• Greg Broughton: Broughton played the majority of the game through the midfield and he was easily able to transfer his ball-winning ability into the role, racking up 31 possessions and 7 tackles for the game. I really like him as an option on the home stretch for those in need of a defender.
• Hayden Ballantyne: Plays both forward and through the middle and each with significant zip and good ball-winning ability. He finished with 6 goals straight and was stiff not to win the BOG medal that was given to 211.
• Matthew Pavlich: Pav really looked like he was hitting some form, finally marking balls in the forward line and kicking goals from 65m out. He is also really strong in the clearances, winning plenty of his own ball. Although he is apparently underdone, he still came away with 19 possessions and four goals.

Disappointing:

• Chris Masten: Masten was poor, again. West Coast are apparently building a future around this kid, but his work rate, nor ball winning ability is up to scratch. Finished with just seven disposals.
• Anthony Morabito: Was pretty average and seemed quite undisciplined on a couple of occasions. He seemed like he didn’t want to be out there today - strange for a kid in his first year.
• Dean Cox: Cox did finish on 79 points, but his start to the game was poor, attaining just 16 points in the first half. He managed to junk it up a bit in the second half, but please don’t consider trading him in!

Blip on the Radar:

• Matt de Boer: de Boer played probably his best game for the club up forward - most of his possessions were deadly accurate and he managed to set up plenty of attacks. However, this is not the time of year to start jumping on mid-priced kids who are showing a bit of improvement. Look to 2011 if you fancy him, but steer well clear at the moment.

St.Kilda vs Hawthorn:

Looking Good:

• Lenny Hayes: This game was perfectly suited to Lenny, who loves hard fought contests through which he can tackle all day long. His match-up on Hodge was fantastic, and he was allowed enough room to rack up 30 disposals and 11 tackles.
• Luke Hodge: Hodgey was brilliant… again! Watching him streak away from clearances, or pass off a brilliant underground handball, you simply watch him with awe. In fact, if he doesn’t win the Brownlow this year, the umpires have a lot to answer for! He finished this game with 33 touches - his mediocre 3 tackles meant he didn’t score much higher than a ton.
• Nick Riewoldt: Three games back and he is starting to look much more like his old self. Despite kicking all the Saints behinds for the night, his confidence in pack marking and chasing and harassing his opponent hasn’t waned. With the Saints’ brilliant run over the next month, he could be due for some big scores.

Disappointing:

• Sam Gilbert: Was dragged deep in defence by Osborne, so saw very little rebounding action. Opposition teams are working out how important Gilbo is to the Saints, but fortunately for them they also have Fisher and Gwilt in their arsenal, meaning they don’t need to be overly concerned when Gilbert is taken deep. He should bounce back though I would assume.
• Jordan Lewis: Continued his forward tagging role this week, however to less effect than against Brisbane last week. Unfortunately for Lewis, Sam Fisher is also a good defender in his own right, meaning that playing on him will likely mean you are left missing in action too. I was surprised though that they didn’t throw him into the guts when the game was in the balance late.
• Leigh Montagna: Was playing well until he pulled a groin muscle when he slipped on the Etihad surface. The Saints are playing a no risk policy at this time of year, so there will be plenty of nervous owners waiting to see how he trains this week.

Blip on the Radar:

• Ben McEvoy: Played one of his best games for the club, which included kicking the goal that drew the match. Whilst he does appear to have the attributes needed to be a good ball-winning ruckman, he isn’t necessarily an athletic ruckman who can win plenty of ball around the ground (i.e. Cox and Kruezer), but more of a smart ruckman who knows where to run to intercept kicks in defence, as well as kicking the odd goal when dropping forward. His scoring is hugely inconsistent, so stay well away.

Collingwood vs Richmond:

Looking Good:

• Dane Swan: Another 37 touches for Swanny in another best on ground performance. I feel like I say the same thing in this article every week - the guy’s a gun. Plain and simple. If you don’t have him, you really want to start doing the maths to work out how to get him. And if you do have him, never ever ever move the ‘C’ away from his name!
• Alan Didak: Despite copping the King tag for most of the day, Dids pretty much did as he pleased, racking up 28 touches, as well as dropping forward for three bonus goals.
• Mitch Morton: Played an interesting game in the back half, rather than in his usual spot up forward. He looked confident (although I think over confidence may have been one of his issues earlier in his career) and was one of Richmond’s few highlights. I wouldn’t touch him though!

Disappointing:

• Dustin Martin: Never really got into the game until late, when he then unfortunately copped a knee in the back which put him back out of the action. He still got 17 touches, but handballed way too much.
• Jack Riewoldt:
  

  To kick two goals on Presti you have to be doing something right! But unfortunately, it wasn’t enough to hold his lofty average, which now seems to be slipping over the past fortnight. We must remember that this is still a breakout season for him and we must take the good with the bad.

• Sharrod Wellingham: Didn’t get too involved in the party, picking up only 17 rather poor disposals. I doubt he will get dropped, but needs to stay in form to keep his spot in a side that has close to half a dozen players knocking on the door.

Blip on the Radar:

• Alex Rance: Played around the flanks for most of the game and racked up a reasonable amount of ball. However we have already seen this year he is not in the best-22 yet, so don’t be trading him in on the back of one good score, even as an emergency.

Geelong vs Brisbane:

Looking Good:

• Joel Selwood: Selwood has been the in-form Cat midfielder over the past month, and again played in amazing fashion, racking up a huge 41 disposals, 9 marks and 10 tackles, culminating in the biggest score of the round.
• Gary Ablett Jnr: Interestingly played a lot more time in the forward line, and although finishing with just 26 disposals, his work up forward netted him five goals, resulting in his large score. I have a suspicion he is a little underdone at the moment, but if he can rest up forward and kick five goals, I’m happy for him to see out the season up there!
• Jack Redden: I really, really rate this kid - he is smart and tough and knows how to find the ball. Whilst Brisbane have a number of young midfielders coming through their ranks, this kid is my favourite. He finished this game with 25 touches and 10 marks - great figures for a player of his age against an opposition of such quality.

Disappointing:

• Corey Enright: This is the third week now that Enright has made the disappointing list… Once again a forward tag has shut him down and once again he did very little about it, finishing with just 19 disposals. He MUST improve, or plenty of coaches are going to get very burned!
• Brendan Fevola: I think it is time that we resigned to the fact that the Fevola trade is the worst thing to happen to Brisbane - he has been a spud of the highest order this year and looks nowhere near getting any better. His body language lets the rest of the team down and he deserves to be dropped. I’m sure Brisbane wish they could have their time all over again.
• Daniel Rich: Was shut down by Ling and had zero effect on the match, finishing with just 12 touches. 2010 just hasn’t been his year.

Blip on the Radar:

• David Wojcinski: Wojo has never been and will never be a good dream teamer. He is a role player for Geelong and has good run and carry skills with his great pace. In thrashings like this one, his scoring tends to lift with his team, but this is not something you should expect consistently from him.

Essendon vs North Melbourne:

Looking Good:

• Andrew Swallow: Swallow was again prolific through the midfield - he has worked so hard to become a player capable of the tough stuff, as well as being able to spread wide and create an option for his teammates. Not only does this allow him to plenty of the ball, but also helps him get to damaging spots on the ground, such as the forward line, where he has become able to kick a few goals.
• Jobe Watson: Watson is thriving under the captaincy, racking up over 40 touches as the best player for his team on the night. He has got a real good footy head on him and knows how to get the best out of himself - with these traits he will rarely have a bad game.
• Kyle Hardingham: Hardingham was the story of the night - he was a mature aged rookie taken by Essendon in the pre-season draft last year and played the game as a forward. As it seems, he has a great set of hands on him and can kick at goal pretty accurately. He finished the night with four goals and a contender for mark of the year. You can pick him up as a midfielder for just under $100k.

Disappointing:

• Daniel Wells: In one of the stranger stories of the weekend, owners of Wells would have been mighty disappointed when he strained his quad with the last kick of the warm up. Obviously, he couldn’t play, but plenty of owners would have been very happy the Roos were able to bring Hale into the squad, meaning you weren’t left with a big fat zero from Wells which would actually count as his score.
• Brent Prismall: Came in as a late inclusion and made a few blues that didn’t help his cause to stay in the team. I don’t understand why he keeps getting dropped, but I wouldn’t be expecting him to survive after an average performance like this one.
• Ben Cunnington: I know he is still a kid, but the best DT scoring player through the TAC cup has certainly been a bit of a disappointment this year. He is showing signs he will be a good player in the future, but is currently not winning enough of the ball.

Blip on the Radar:

• Levi Greenwood: Greenwood had less of a role to play than usual so spent chunks of time on the ball, leading him to his biggest score of the year. Don’t be expecting too many like this though.

West Coast vs Carlton:

Looking Good:

• Kade Simpson: Was the Blues best midfielder on the night, despite wearing a close tag. Finished with 33 disposals and 12 marks for the game, easily the best on ground.
• Andrew Strijk: Strijk was particularly good early until a high bump ruled him out later in the game. Was one of West Coast’s best players, with his strong runs and pin-point forward entries a highlight. He looks to be a real find for the Eagles.
• Marc Murphy: Murphy finished with just 26 disposals, but his two late goals were the sealers for the Blues. He still doesn’t seem to be playing at his best, but I’d still take 106 points from him anyday!

Disappointing:

• Dean Cox: Cox was really average, after impressing over the past fortnight. He finished with just 8 touches and 16 hitouts, playing second fiddle to Naitanui.
• Robert Warnock: Those hoping this game would galvanise his spot in the team may have been a little worried when he racked up just 10 disposals for the game - 9 of which were handballs. He was also beaten in the ruck contests by Naitanui.
• Ashton Hams: Had another decent game, but a high bump on Armfield that sent him to hospital will be looked at very closely. Could be looking at a few weeks on the sidelines.

Blip on the Radar:

• Shaun Grigg: Grigg had a reasonable game playing around the midfield and half-forward line. He plays well as a ball-winner, but my worry is that we have seen this same scoring from him in previous seasons, only for him to pull out plenty of mid-20 scores too.

Western Bulldogs vs Fremantle:

Looking Good:

• Daniel Cross: Crossy seemed to get just about every possible hard ball all day, picking up 31 touches in another dominant display. He is a great dream teamer from seasons past, yet is highly (and strangely) unheralded in plenty of DT circles. He wins plenty of ball and is a tackle machine. Consider him if you need a midfielder.
• Jarrod Harbrow: Ran around in the backline, picking up stats at will, especially in the second half when the Dogs played plenty of kick-to-kick games in the back half. Certainly a good score, but don’t be depending on these sorts of numbers from him too often in the future.
• Nick Suban: He did this last year - played the last half-dozen or so matches with aplomb, and fingers crossed he can repeat the feat this year. He was one of Freo’s better players in this game, finishing with 24 touches on the wing.

Disappointing:

• Stephen Hill: Once again tagged out of the game and had very little influence. Received no help from his teammates.
• Aaron Sandilands: Won in the hitouts, but was beaten around the ground by Hudson and Roughead. He doesn’t have too many shockers, so expect him to bounce back quickly.
• Dylan Roberton: Played up forward rather than as a rebounding defender as he has done for the past few weeks. Unfortunately, in a game that saw the ball travel into Freo’d forward line very few times, it was unlikely Roberton would score very highly.

Blip on the Radar:

• Roger Hayden: I really like Hayden as a player, but I think it’s a real shame he doesn’t play a more attacking role for Fremantle. He has great speed and creativity, but his defensiveness stifles this attribute. So until he is given a new role, expect very few scores like this one.

Melbourne vs Sydney:

Looking Good:

• Colin Sylvia: I’m loving Sylvia’s form recently - it has now been three plus-100 scores in a row and he has been looking very good, playing predominantly as a midfielder. He continued his recent trend in this game with 28 disposals and 7 tackles. Fingers crossed he can keep the run going!
• Adam Goodes: Speaking of good recent form, Goodes clocked in another very good game, albeit playing much more forward of centre than probably hoped. He was being tagged by Morton so kept trying to drag him to full-forward, and it worked, with Goodes kicking four goals as one of Sydney’s few influential players.
• Brad Green: Green was back playing his forward role which he is so good at - he knows exactly where to lead and is Melbourne’s best kick at goal. He finished with five goals for the game whilst rotating between a selection of opponents.

Disappointing:

• Ryan O’Keefe: What a shocking game - O’Keefe was tagged by Bruce but did virtually nothing to prevent it. He spent most of his time up forward and seemed resigned to losing the battle. He better pull his finger out soon as this display needs a lot of making up for!
• Tadhg Kennelly: Kennelly was also tagged and hardly did much of a better job than O’Keefe at breaking it. Melbourne were too good on every line and once again Sydney looked like they knew they would lose since 10 minutes into the first quarter.
• Jack Watts: It always frustrates me when a team kicks over 20 goals, yet their full-forward can only muster one of those goals. This was the case with Watts in this game, with him booting just the solitary goal from 9 disposals.

Blip on the Radar:

• James Frawley: Frawley has the potential to be a future star - whilst most of his early career he has been a strictly defensive player, he has had the odd game where he has created plenty of run from the half-back line. This was one and it was hopefully a sign of things to come from him. Unfortunately though, season 2010 is probably not an option, but certainly keep an eye on his pre-season next year!

Port Adelaide vs Adelaide:

Looking Good:

• Domenic Cassisi: Cassisi was amazing through the midfield - in fact, although he finished with 28 touches, it felt more like 40, such was his presence. It was Port’s one-touch clearance work and clean hands that won them the game and Cassisi epitomised this. He also lead the way with their strong focus on tackles with a whopping 12!
• Troy Chaplin: Chaplin was great rebounding out of defence for Port, cutting off so many Adelaide forward forays and running them straight back out. Adelaide tried to shut him down but really had no answer as he finished with 26 disposals and 11 marks.
• Justin Westhoff: Westhoff was great at CHF, beating a very significant player in Bock. His four goals all came at pivotal times, and unlike his opponents, he seemed capable and confident of kicking them from anywhere.

Disappointing:

• Kurt Tippett: Was hardly sighted until he moved into the ruck in the last quarter, yet still to little avail. Whilst not doing much this year, Crows supporters can at least be excited at the potential of their young team over the next few years with the likes of Tippett, Walker, Vince, Mackay and Dangerfield all looking like potential stars.
• Taylor Walker: Had plenty of chances to get the Crows back into the game but continually missed his shots at goal, finishing with 2.4 for the evening.
• Robbie Gray: Lacked the match fitness to play such a high intensity game straight back from injury. He was also well held by Johncock, but just struggled to win his own ball. Will get better though I am sure.

Blip on the Radar:

• Matt Thomas: Thomas, aka. ‘The Crow Killer’ loves his showdowns, and it was to be expected that he would run rampant in this game. He has in fact been scoring quite well this year, but still he averages too low to really consider him for selection. He plays his roles perfectly so there is no reason for Port to play him as a more attacking player. Therefore, keep away.

Adelaide vs Geelong:

Looking Good:

• Bernie Vince: Played another great game through the midfield, further damaging my prediction of a few weeks ago that he wouldn’t come good this season. Has returned from injury well and is leading the Crows resurgence.
• Joel Selwood: Was one of only a few in-form Geelong midfielders on the night as their high-possession game plan seemed to fall by the wayside. Finished with a very impressive 35 disposals and 6 marks.
• Harry Taylor: Was fantastic in the Cats defence, mopping up plenty of Adelaide attacks. He played on a variety of younger opponents and was allowed to run off them when the likes of Scarlett and Enright weren’t. Played very well, but don’t expect too many games like this one.

Disappointing:

• Corey Enright: Second week in a row he has stunk it up so he tops my disappointing list. He used to be Mr. Consistent, but has lately been finding himself tagged out of games with the likes of Hunt and Taylor taking up his rebounding responsibilities in the process. Should really come good soon - I think it is more coincidence than form issues that have seen him give out two poor scores in a row.
• Kurt Tippett: Looked lively early when manned by Lonergan, but as soon as Scarlett moved to him he was held very quiet. Finished with just one goal, but it was his five frees against that really killed his score.
• Gary Ablett: Ablett finished on a respectable 81 points, but his game was quite poor by his standards. In fact, his form across the past month or so has been quite average - at this point I would not consider making him captain at all! He is getting frustrated by his game, is going to ground more and receiving less support from both his teammates and umpires. It may just be coincidence, but this Gold Coast decision certainly seems to be looming over his head.

Blip on the Radar:

• Harry Taylor: As I stated above, Taylor’s game was a great one, however not one that will likely be repeated too often this year. He is close to AA form this year, but his game does not typically involve much rebound from defence, especially with players like Scarlett, Milburn and Enright alongside him.

Collingwood vs St.Kilda:

Looking Good:

• Dane Swan: Best on ground again for Swan with 36 touches and 7 marks. He is stunning through traffic and great at finding his own space, hence being the ball-winning man that we love. He simply keeps producing. I am already salivating about him playing Richmond next week at the MCG! Especially with Jackson out suspended!
• Sam Fisher: Was the Saints best player, acting as a loose man in defence and chopping off plenty of Collingwood forward-entries. He had a whopping 18 marks amongst 33 disposals. Hopefully this can be the start of a purple patch for him.
• Dale Thomas: Was great all day, but especially in the second half when Collingwood started displaying their party tricks. Played through the midfield all day again and is still keeping his consistency up with 27 disposals and 12 marks. He won’t ever sell a dummy to Hayes again though…

Disappointing:

• Farren Ray: Played as a small defender on the repositioned Heath Shaw and lacked any sort of rebound. Has been ultra consistent since crossing from the Dogs, so it is a shame to see him have a bit of a shocker.
• Stephen Milne: Just the one goal for Milne, and it was a gift from Pattison. He simply struggles in big games, and proved it here with another poor showing.
• Chris Dawes: Was held pretty tight by Dawson and only kicked the one goal for the game. Saints have got a typically good record on Tall forwards, and with no Cloke to act in support, Dawes’ game wasn’t necessarily a surprise.

Blip on the Radar:

• Jarryn Geary: Has been a good developing player for Saints, but is more of a role player than a ball winner. This season he has switched from defence to defensive forward each week, with this game seeing him given a role as the latter. The Saints often played through him to keep his opponent accountable, but it is not a typically high scoring role, nor one we will see him in consistently.

Hawthorn vs Brisbane:

Looking Good:

• Jordan Lewis:
  

  Played again on the half forward flank and kicked a bag of four goals, including three in the first quarter. His role was a defensive one of Travis Johnstone, but to keep Johnstone accountable, the Hawks regularly went through Lewis to get into the forward line, hence his massive score. He plays this role very well, suggesting this is where he will play out the season from.

• Brad Sewell: Sewell was dropped in selection this week due to his continued poor form, but was given a reprieve when Buddy was a late withdrawal. Sewell came out swinging, finishing with 39 disposals and 6 tackles - a huge increase on what he has been dishing out up until now. Whilst I wouldn’t pounce on him yet, if he can recapture his 2009 form he is currently dirt cheap.
• Wayde Skipper: Played his best game for the Brown and Gold, making plenty of owners thankful that Hille had reinjured his hamstring. Whilst he wasn’t prolific, he showed good ball winning skills and a good set of hands. Kicked a nice goal too which was some good icing on the cake.

Disappointing:

• Jonathan Brown: In his first game in over a month, Brown showed that he will likely take a few weeks to adjust back to the pace. He kicked three goals but did very little else, being well held by Gibson.
• Brendan Fevola: Only three possessions and a goal for Fev this week, showing the three goals against the Saints last week was simply a blip on the radar. He is in simply shocking form and is playing with no passion or love for the Brisbane Guernsey.
• Justin Sherman: Another player deserving to be dropped from the squad after playing his fourth game of under ten disposals in a row. What’s worse is that he is actually playing a role as a ball-winning midfielder, not a tagger, so these sorts of stats are very damning.

Blip on the Radar:

• Shaun Burgoyne: Burgoyne is a star and was one of Hawthorn’s best two or three players, and will likely continue to be for the remaining rounds. Then why has he made this section? Simple - he is not a dream teamer. Whilst he will play occasional games of over 100 points, typically he will be averaging between 80 and 90, not quite good enough to be selecting at this time of year. He is a brilliant user of the ball and one of the best clearance players in the AFL, but unfortunately, Dream Team doesn’t reward either of these things and he is only an average ball-winner - the most important stat to us.

Essendon vs West Coast:

Looking Good:

• Mark LeCras: This game from LeCras was something special - he finished the game with 12 goals and two behinds - a total of 76 points worth of scoring, or an incredible 118 points worth of DT points if you count the kicks he made to kick the goals! It was an amazing effort and brilliant to watch as Essendon interchanged four opponents on him to no avail.
• Matt Priddis: Priddis controlled the midfield all night, especially in the second and third terms as he pushed West Coast towards the win. He is such a good dream teamer, finishing with 32 touches and 6 tackles.
• Dean Cox: Without wanting to speak too soon, Cox looks to be coming into a bit of form over the past fortnight. As Naitanui begins to tire, Cox’s body seems to be getting fitter with every week - he ended this game with 18 disposals and 7 marks as one of West Coast’s better players.

Disappointing:

• Patrick Ryder: Paddy has really dropped off over the past month, mirroring Essendon’s poor form. Whether he is waiting for Hille to return, or the lack of forward entries are hurting him, I am unsure, but one thing I am sure of is that I would avoid bringing him in after a couple of poor performances in a row.
• Beau Waters: Played another negating role in the backline, killing his dream team potential. After his massive purple patch a month ago it is hard watching his scoring peter away - hopefully it can return for the finals.
• Jay Neagle: After a good game last week, this game he was kept very quiet by Schofield, proving he is not a player for your DT.

Blip on the Radar:

• Ben Howlett: Nearly cracked the ton, but got a lot of the ball in the final quarter junk time. Don’t get too sucked into this one large score though, he is bench cover at best - we all know Knights’ selection policy, so therefore it is probably best to keep well away.

Western Bulldogs vs Port Adelaide:

Looking Good:

• Daniel Cross: Crossy was the Dogs best, and as is his usual trademark, he was hard all day, helping himself to 33 hard-fought disposals, which also included 14 marks (well up on his average). He is super consistent and a great option heading to finals if you do need a midfielder.
• Matthew Boyd: Speaking of consistency, Boyd was brilliant again, winning plenty of ball through the middle and also dropping forward of centre to snag himself two goals. Strangely unheralded, Boyd is hardly a step behind Dream Team stars such as Montagna and Swan.
• Kane Cornes: In his 200^th game it was fitting that Cornes ran around picking up ridiculous amounts of disposals, as has been his trademark for his previous 199 games. He finished with 35 disposals for the game and a bonus two goals.

Disappointing:

• Cameron Hitchcock: Hitchcock has been a godsend to plenty of forward benches this year but is fading fast. Unfortunately, the AFL season is a long one and takes its toll on younger players like Hitchcock. He was hardly sighted in this game, picking up just the 9 disposals.
• Daniel Giansiracusa: Gia, for me, has been one of the most frustrating players in DT 2010 - his new role in the forward line has been less than beneficial as his points have varied between mid-40’s, all the way to over 150 points! He gives off too many goals and I don’t think his hands are good enough to play as a key forward, so I’m praying for a cameo midfield role though the finals series… somehow I think I’m going to be disappointed.
• Jay Schultz: Possibly took mark of the year, but was unfortunately well held other than that. I think he would be a great third tall forward but struggles as the key target. He did still kick two goals on Lake though - certainly better than most!

Blip on the Radar:

• Nathan Eagleton: Eagleton is very close to being the 22^nd player selected at the Dogs - he is an exclusively outside player, something that the Dogs have in abundance. He is able to find the ball, but his form wavers quite frequently, meaning he is not an ideal selection, this end of the season, or even at the start.

Carlton vs Sydney:

Looking Good:

• Adam Goodes: Once again playing through the midfield, and once again best on ground. He is thriving on his returned responsibilities, now with only occasional time spent in the forward line. Could easily average over 100 for the remaining rounds if this role continues.
• Bryce Gibbs: Gibbs followed Goodes around most of the day and won plenty of his own ball too, finishing with 24 disposals and 6 tackles. He’s still not playing great footy, but is at least building to some good form - hopefully he can sustain some scores over 100 throughout the DT finals.
• Heath Grundy: After a number of weeks of average scores, Grundy clocked up his first ton in a while. He played in defence and helped run plenty of the ball out alongside Malceski and Kennelly. Whilst the oppositions lack of pressure certainly helped, hopefully the Blues have played him back into some form.

Disappointing:

• Lachie Henderson: Was largely ineffective again, finishing with just the five disposals. It has to be remembered that he is a project player and will take a couple of years - at least he is playing better than Fev!
• Paul Bower: Bower played a purely defensive role, ruining his own DT scoring in the process. I’m totally confused about Bower’s season - either his role seems to change every week, or he is injured. Maybe a good 2011 prospect, but I would still be hesitant.
• Brett Kirk: Kirk is a great player, but he plays for the Swans, not your Dream Team. He is one player who looks like he wouldn’t give two stuffs about DT - if he finishes with two disposals and his opponent the same, then he is happy. His point scoring fluctuates as much as anyone, so he is not the type of player you want in your side.

Blip on the Radar:

• Shaun Grigg: Grigg has been in and out the the side all year (more so out), and will likely to continue to be as the Blues continue to fix their forward line on the run. He plays a half-forward role, but can be as inconsistent as hell.

North Melbourne vs Richmond:

Looking Good:

• Leigh Adams: Racked up the ball all day on a forward flank, finishing with 28 disposals and 3 goals. The Roos regularly used him across the half-forward position and he was a strong reason for their win.
• Daniel Connors: Continued his great recent form with another 30 possession game coming out of the backline. He is almost becoming too good to start on your bench with three scores in a row over 115 points.
• Andrew Swallow: Got the hard stuff all day and fed all his fellow midfielders with his superb pack-work. Racked up 31 touches and 8 tackles for the game.

Disappointing:

• Trent Cotchin: Was well held by Greenwood, managing only the 12 touches. His game was further soured by a head-high hit on Wright, which will unfortunately likely see him suspended, despite it being totally accidental. This will be a big talking point in the media this week.
• Aaron Edwards: Has been dominating in the VFL, but just couldn’t mirror the form to AFL level, finishing with only a handful of disposals. May find himself looking for a new club at season’s end.
• Jack Riewoldt: Grima did a great job of holding Riewoldt to just the three goals and 8 disposals. Unfortunately, he can’t dominate every week, especially when his midfield is thrashed.

Blip on the Radar:

• Jake King: If you got points for trying hard, King would be a must have addition to your Dream Team. But unfortunately, trying won’t get you too far in DT - he is a tagger, nothing more, and is not a player you want in your team, ever!

Fremantle vs Melbourne:

Looking Good:

• Paul Duffield: Duffield rarely dominates a game, but he drifts in for several key plays through the game, and every time he always ends with a beautiful pass into the forward line, a great run down the wing, or a great tackle - he is becoming a great player, and a very consistent one at that. Finished with 22 disposals, 7 marks and 6 tackles.
• Colin Sylvia: He started up forward, but was quickly, and fortunately, moved into the midfield for most of the game. He had some good passages and was particularly prevalent when the Dees were getting back into the game. He even got himself a 14-pointer, which was a sight for sore eyes (tackle, free kick, kick, goal = 14).
• Jack Watts: I really wanted to single this kid out for a very impressive game - the stats don’t speak the whole story here, but his workrate up through the midfield and along the wings was first-rate. He followed up plenty of his hard work for some one-twos and looks very ready to lead the Dees young forward line. If he had a bit more meat on the bones he would command a real presence I think - I’m really excited about the future of this kid!

Disappointing:

• Brent Moloney: Was tagged out of the game early by McPhee and really struggled, managing just 16 points in two and a half quarters of footy. He then got a corked thigh in the third, for which he was put in cotton wool - I think he could have kept playing, but was having no effect on the game so was therefore rested.
• Ryan Crowley: Played as a tagging forward and also as a small defender in bursts and it killed his scoring. Whilst he is not typically a big scorer, 26 points is well below what should be expected.
• Mark Jamar: Jamar competed well against Sandilands in the ruck, but struggled for much effect around the ground. In fact, Johnson was the most dominating ruckman around the ground.

Blip on the Radar:

• Joel MacDonald: I like Joel, but I think he is way too much on the cusp of selection at Melbourne. The Dees want to play the kids, so the senior players only need to give the slightest excuse to be dropped. Grimes back in a couple of weeks will also put some pressure on him.

Port Adelaide vs Collingwood:

Looking Good:

• Dane Swan: Despite being the focus of a mid-week interview where he told the interviewer that possession numbers were not important to him, he proved that secretly he does love being number one on the stats sheet and we will continue to love him for it. Finished with 39 touches and 7 tackles, with 16 of those disposals coming in a mega second term!
• Scott Pendlebury: Pendlebury was a strong competitor and only fell short of the ton by a bit. Needs to kick the ball more for such a damaging user by foot, but the fact he was able to rack up 30 disposals was still a great thing.
• David Rodan: Port’s best player, especially in the second half, where his three goals really kept the Power in the contest. Was at his zippy best and won 26 disposals with 8 tackles.

Disappointing:

• Jack Anthony: Again played the swingman role, which is killing his scoring. He looked good in a couple of passages through the middle but did little else. Could also be in trouble for a high hit late in the game.
• Matt Thomas: Sacrificed his own game to tag Daisy Thomas, yet still didn’t nullify him. Tried every trick in the book to ‘accidentally’ hurt Thomas, but fortunately it was to no avail.
• Travis Cloke: Was quite anonymous for most of the night with Dawes the main tall target in the Collingwood forward line. Was also reported in the first quarter, which at worst would see him miss a week.

Blip on the Radar:

• Brett Ebert: Ebert was on fire in the first quarter, kicking three goals and racking up plenty of the ball up field - in fact, nearly half his DT points were acquired in the first term. Ebert has proven this year that at best he is an inconsistent scorer - he has the ability to break a game open as he showed here, but all too often his massive head seems to weigh him down too much, causing some very low scores.

Geelong vs Hawthorn:

Looking Good:

• Jimmy Bartel: Jimmy was great through the middle playing a classic ‘Bartel’ game - plenty of disposals, lots of tackles and a good number of marks. He was best on ground in this tight affair and continues to prove why he is such a loved DT figure!
• Lance Franklin: Kicked another three goals, but again his work around the half-forward line was class - finishing with 22 disposals as a key forward is fantastic, even in today’s day and age.
• Paul Chapman: Chappy started hard before fading through the middle of the game as Gibson, his direct opponent, began to get on top of him, but fortunately he came home strong, finishing with 24 disposals, 7 tackles and 2 goals.

Disappointing:

• Corey Enright: Had a heavy forward tag given to him by Lewis, meaning Mr.Consistency scored his lowest score for the season. With the constant opponent he just wasn’t allowed the freedom or space to rack up his usual cheap ball, nor one-twos out of the backline.
• Xavier Ellis:
  

  If I were an Ellis owner I would be so sick of him by now - so often he starts games strongly before fading away in the second half. In this game, at quarter time he was the second highest point getter on the ground with 33 DT points - he then went on to rack up just 21 points for the rest of the game. Disappointing and frustrating stuff.

• Jarryd Roughead: Once again the Buddy showed prevented Roughy from having0 much effect on the game as he constantly played decoy to Franklin’s leads. He finished with two goals, but it should have been more when playing on a lower-grade defender such as Lonergan.

Blip on the Radar:

• Brad Ottens: Ottens returned this week from his extended stint on the sidelines with injury and competed well. My worry though is going to be how long he will last before re-injuring himself. He has such a poor injury history that he is simply not worth the risk of bringing into your team. Don’t even give the notion a thought - I’d trade Mark Blake in before Ottens and that’s saying something!

West Coast vs Adelaide:

Looking Good:

• Ricky Henderson: He’s only played a few games, but he was sensational across all four quarter as a ball-winning half-forward. He kicked three goals and racked up 22 disposals, making plenty of coaches with him as emergency happy when Goddard withdrew later that night.
• Kurt Tippett: Tippett turned this game all on his own off his own boot in the last quarter when the game was still up for grabs. He looked so powerful in the forward line and both marked and kicked very strongly - two features of his game that haven’t been so brilliant this year. He could perhaps be on the rise and a good late-season smokey to come good for finals.
• Matt Rosa: Was given the freedom to be his own player this week instead of having to follow an opponent’s tail as a tagger and he thrived with the opportunity, as he has shown several times before. I wouldn’t trade him in this year, but I am certainly penning his name into my watch-list book for 2011.

Disappointing:

• Josh Kennedy: Only kicked the two behinds whilst being totally dominated by Rutten. The lack of quality delivery is really going to make it hard for him to beat a strong opponent such as Rutten.
• Phil Davis: For those who own Davis, now is the time to stop playing him on the field - whilst he was a good scorer for a few weeks, he is now being given exclusively shut-down roles, meaning his scoring has been very poor. He is certainly playing his role in the team, but unfortunately this is not going to help your Dream Team.
• Andrew Strijk: As seems to be an odd trend with 2010 debutants, Strijk had an average third game, punishing those who brought him into their squad for his ‘bubble’ game. I doubt he will lose his spot, but that won’t help those coaches who lost their games by a small margin.

Blip on the Radar:

• Everyone from West Coast: I don’t mean this to sound as harsh as it does, but at this stage of the year, avoid trading in any players from teams on the bottom of the ladder - especially the likes of West Coast who are going to have to start playing the kids to show how bright the future is to the members. We saw them make five changes this week - proof that there won’t be a consistent lineup in the Eagles for the remaining rounds.

Brisbane vs St.Kilda

Looking Good:

• Leigh Montagna: Was the Saints best, especially in the second quarter. Watching him closely, he is such a hard worker, running from contest to contest, it is no wonder why he scores so much every week.
• Simon Black: The Saints chose to focus their tagging attention to Power, allowing Black to run free, which saw him be one of the most damaging midfielders on the ground, racking up 29 touches, 9 marks and 7 tackles - all huge stats.
• Daniel Rich: His lack of form through the midfield has seen Voss move him to defence, a move that may just turn his season around. He was great, matching up on one the Saints small forwards and playing a rebounding role, with his great disposal off half-back really helping the Lions solve their recent issue of clean disposal out of the back half.

Disappointing:

• Justin Sherman: Was hardly sighted through the whole game - in fact I couldn’t even tell you where on the ground he played as I saw such little of him. Just 6 disposals is poor - especially for a player who wasn’t even tagged.
• Jack Steven: Seemed to suffer a bit from game time and lacked the luck that has seen him snag some vital goals the past couple of weeks. Will hopefully stay in the squad as his forward pressure has been great - also, his arrival has allowed Schneider to move into the midfield.
• Jason Gram: Played just over 60% game time in his first game back from injury. He floated in and out of the game, but clearly struggled to adjust to the pace for most of the game. Will be better after a few games back, but may need some time.

Blip on the Radar:

• Amon Buchanan: Didn’t have much of an opponent in the Saints backline as Fisher and Gilbert preferred to rebound than pay him attention. He has already shown this year though that he is not a viable DT option. He COULD have been a 2010 bargain, but fortunately not too many fell for the trick.

Richmond vs Fremantle:

Looking Good:

• Daniel Connors: AGAIN, he looked great off half-back and through the middle - This kid plays like he has some drive now. The past few years he has always seemed talented, but quite possibly be one of those players who doesn’t put in the yards and misses out on really making it. This year since his drinking indiscretion, Connors has been great, here amassing a career-high 35 disposals.
• Chris Newman: I keep saying not to pick up players from bottom teams, but if I were to break my own rule, Newman would be the man - he has been really consistent this past month or so and it simply loving being the Richmond captain at such an exciting time. His work off half-back is great and he also has the ability to play through the midfield - almost like Pavlich… but a defender.
• Adam McPhee: McPhee was Freo’s best player, playing mainly as their loose man in defence - he cut off so many Richmond forways forward that he was almost the player that kept Fremantle from being blown out. Good to see him back in defence where he belongs.

Disappointing:

• Hayden Ballantyne: Had little effect on the game, but will be remembered as the player that gave away the crucial 50-metre penalty late in the fourth quarter to put Richmond in front.
• Ben Nason: GODDARD ISN’T PLAYING!! I NEED YOU TO PERFORM! IT’S JUST A BLOODY CUT! PUT A BANDAID ON IT AN GET BACK OUT THERE, THEN IF IT’S REALLY TOO HARD, JUST SIT BEHIND THE BALL AND PLAY KICK-TO-KICK!!
• Ryan Crowley: Back to a tagging role this week, meaning no mega quarters, heck, not even any goals!

Blip on the Radar:

• Adam McPhee: Had to give him the credit for his good game… But let’s be honest… It’s Adam McPhee…

Sydney vs North Melbourne:

Looking Good:

• Adam Goodes: Paul Roos thought he’s “try something different” and throw Goodes into the midfield to try and re-invigorate him, and boy did it work! Goodes was prolific, racking up 33 touches and 11 tackles in one of the best individual games of the weekend. The only worry is that he was put back forward late in the game (and kicked three match-winning goals!), with Roos later hinting that this is where he would continue his season. So don’t get too excited about continued midfield time… yet.
• Tadhg Kennelly: Kennelly finally showed some form after plenty of terrible matches in a row. Running off half-back he amassed a whopping 34 disposals - his largest tally of the year.
• Nick Malceski: The Swans other rebounding defender was also having a good day at the office, equalling Kennelly’s 34 disposals. Malceski also kicked a goal, but unlike Kennelly he chose to handball more than kick.

Disappointing:

• Drew Petrie: I don’t quite understand why all these players keep getting rushed back a week too early - Petrie spent the game still clearly hampered by his foot injury and thus never got into any sort of rhythm. But by-golly, he’s gonna be cheap in 2011!
• Lachie Hansen: Although Petrie was ineffective, the Kangaroos still aimed most of their attacks at him, meaning the in-form Hansen was hardly able to trouble the statisticians. Only kicked the one behind.
• Jarrad McVeigh: The game of McVeigh was more a testament to the tagging skills of Rawlings than it was an indictment on McVeigh - so far in 2010 McVeigh has been one of the hardest men for taggers to stop with his leg-speed and great ability through traffic, but Rawlings worked hard all day to totally nullify him from the contest.

Blip on the Radar:

• Lewis Roberts-Thomson: I don’t know what it is about LRT, but he seems to suck some DTers in more than many other players. I can tell you now though that he is NOT the type of player you want. He plays the full-back role in a low-possession team, yet sometimes is allowed to junk up a bit - not Brian Lake junk (which sees a lot of points earned from reading the play) - simple, honest, “OMG I don’t wanna kick this up the middle” sort of junk stats. Stay wellllllll away!

Essendon vs Melbourne:

Looking Good:

• Brad Green: Green started strongly with the first goal and didn’t let up from there, pushing on for best on ground honours. He finished the game with five goals, switching between half-forward and the midfield.
• Jason Winderlich: One of Essendon’s few standouts - ran hard all day and continued to rack up the pill. He finished with 30 disposals and seven marks, but really lacked much help from his teammates.
• Colin Sylvia: Made it back into the side for the first time in a few weeks and played very well, treating those owners who have kept hold of him through thick and thin. Kicked two goals amongst 29 disposals. Like Green, Sylvia rotated through the forward line and on the ball.

Disappointing:

• Patrick Ryder: Was quite easily beaten by Jamar, which was surprising. He held his own in the ruck but only managed the 10 disposals around the ground. Paddy tends to play better with Hille in the side, who should hopefully return next week.
• Kyle Reimers: Played the game as a forward and only contributed a goal. Reimers is a player who could be anything, and I think we can see this in DT land, but unfortunately his inconsistency robs him. Really needs a big pre-season next year and we could hopefully look to 2011 as a real breakout year for him.
• Paul Johnson: Was essentially a pointless inclusion as Jamar was allowed to pretty much ruck on his own anyway.

Blip on the Radar:

• Jay Neagle: Performed well with three goals, but I worry about Neagle’s consistency at his age. He won’t perform too well against top teams yet, plus he is not the type of player to be targeting at this time of year anyway.

Western Bulldogs vs Carlton:

Looking Good:

• Matthew Boyd: This guy just screams captain - gets the hard ball, uses it well, and what’s more, he does it all the way til the final siren. Will never give you half-baked effort, so expect consistently high scores.
• Bryce Gibbs: Played through the middle, which was a sight for sore eyes. He still did drop behind the ball at times, but at least he wasn’t playing a stopper’s role deep in defence. Surprisingly though, he did turn it over quite a bit - though thankfully, this doesn’t make a lick of difference to dream team!
• Brian Lake: Gee he’s good. I’ve decided to stop being so critical of him and just watch him play - and I’ve become to realise that his disposals aren’t just cheapies, but whilst not all contested, he reads the opposition kicks so well, leading to him chopping off plenty of forays forwards with his strong marking. There is no wonder he is leading the competition for marks this year - I take back every bad thing I have said, he IS a great dream team option!

Disappointing:

• Eddie Betts: No easy ball here, Eddie - 7 possessions, no goals.
• Setanta O’Hailpin: Played a shut-down role on Lake - it worked wonders, restricting Lake to just 28 touches and 8 marks… Setanta was also damaging the other way with two of his three disposals hitting the target…
• Paul Bower: His owners would have been relieved to just see him on the field playing footy, but his meagre 59 points would certainly have been disappointing. He played much more defensively orientated than earlier in the season, but as Ratten seems to change everyone’s roles each week, perhaps he will be the rebounder again next week… or maybe a small forward…

Blip on the Radar:

• Shaun Hampson: He was decent, but don’t expect his score to keep doubling every week… Expect a 60 average and not a lot more.

Brisbane vs Carlton:

Looking Good:

• Matthew Leuenberger: Played a super game as the dominant ruckman on the ground. He is beginning to prove his worth as a top draft pick, displaying his strong footy brain and a willingness to put his big body in dangerous spots to win the ball. He won’t clock up too many more tons this year, but this game was of a super standard.
• Chris Judd: Juddy seemed to win every centre clearance and looked to enjoy the freedom allowed to him by Brisbane - Simon Black played on him. Whilst he didn’t quite hit the ton (he was on track before going off late with the blood rule), he was the most dominant player on the ground.
• Sam Jacobs: Stepped up in Kruezer’s place and looked very comfortable and confident in this role. Is a bit of a crash-and-bash ruckman who likes to lay tackles, whilst also picking up a bit of the ball around the ground.

Disappointing:

• Shaun Hampson: Hampson played the game which all Warnock owners were wishing for - he had very little effect on the contest as a ruck/forward. He finished with just 4 disposals and 10 hitouts.
• Ash McGrath: Every time he got the ball he seemed to turn straight into oncoming track - clearly his hamstring injury effected his cognitive ability! Was really poor and turned it over constantly. Voss does have a habit of bringing players back a week too early from injury, so perhaps McGrath will come good soon.
• Luke Power: Played the majority of the game as a forward and struggled to have any effect on the contest.

Blip on the Radar:

• Andrew Walker: Walker has had a reasonable season this year, but this game (and also his past few) could prove costly to his position in the team - his current role is as a playmaker off the half-back line, but his ability to keep turning the ball over was a major issue on Thursday night, a problem which may see him given a different role, such as tagging, in the coming weeks. I would avoid him for this reason alone.

Hawthorn vs Western Bulldogs:

Looking Delicious:

• Sam Mitchell: Really led his team well at the clearances with 28 well-earned disposals, plus one of the late goals that eventually got Hawthorn across the line. His 8 tackles were also a highlight.
• Brian Lake: Ran off Franklin all night, and as usual collected plenty of cheap ball in the backline. What originally looked like a blip on the radar for Lake has turned into a consistent event - he can almost be counted on for a good regular score nowadays, thanks especially to his huge amount of marks - he finished this game with a whopping 18 marks!
• Luke Hodge: Continues on his great season after a bit of a dip last week - he played this game purely as a midfielder and finished with 28 touches and 6 tackles. Playing in a winning team is certainly helping!

Disappointing:

• Barry Hall: Kicked just two goals and did very little else, thanks to a good defensive game by Gilham.
• Michael Osborne: Was hardly sighted for much of the match as he stayed fixed to the forward line for most of the game. Finished with just 9 disposals.
• Ryan Hargrave: The trend continues - a good game last week and a shocker again this week. Was given the role as a defender on Peterson and was given little opportunity to zone off. I think it is safe to say he will likely finish off the year in similar up-and-down fashion.

Blip on the Radar:

• Liam Picken: Picken has played his year as a tagger (as he did last year), but more often than not he is taking a smaller forward, rather than a midfielder. This week though, he landed the job on Mitchell and therefore spent much more time in the midfield, allowing him to more disposals. Don’t be expecting any sort of regularity to this scoring, even if the midfield move does continue. He is a tagger first and foremost.

Fremantle vs Port Adelaide:

Looking Good:

• Rhys Palmer: Was great in the midfield all day, but especially late in the match as Freo ripped the game from Port’s grasping claws. Unfortunately though, his day was soured when he shattered Barlow’s leg when going for a low mark.
• Mitch Banner: Was Port’s main architect in the second quarter as they came back strongly. He finished the game as Port’s best midfielder with 23 disposals.
• Aaron Sandliands: Carried on his great form with another dominant display. He continues to be a great go-to option for Freo, and as I have said time and time again, his contested marking is a highlight, and one that will help prevent him from getting many sub-100 scores this season.

Disappointing:

• Michael Barlow: Such a sad story to come out of this game - the injury to Michael Barlow. Those who saw it will attest to it being something they wouldn’t want to see again - the injury was graphic and clearly painful - some TV shows won’t even show the footage of him standing up afterwards, with his leg collapsing below him. A very sad story indeed after such a brave and awe-inspiring debut year from the kid… He will now miss the remainder of the season (stay tuned to www.footytragic.com to find out what to do next!)
• Daniel Motlop: He spends his time either pleading for free kicks or for his teammates to give him a cheapie out the back of packs. He needs to step back and look at how far his game has deteriorated and start learning about working hard for his disposals.
• Kepler Bradley: With Johnson’s return from club suspension, Bradley’s role was stripped back significantly and he ended up spending less time on the ball. Still played OK, but I wouldn’t be considering him now with the ambiguities Johnson’s return brings.

Blip on the Radar:

• Michael Johnson: Played his first game in a couple of months after his club suspension for drug possession. He played well as a defender-cum-ruckman, and got more than his fair share of disposals, plenty of which came from chipping around. He is not the type of player you want at this stage of the year - inconsistent and unreliable.

Collingwood vs West Coast:

Looking Good:

• Dane Swan: He just didn’t stop - and you can probably thank John Worsfold for that - after racking up 47 points by quarter time, Swan pushed on to score 161 points thanks to his 38 touches and 14 marks. He was simply prolific - in fact, it looked like there were five of him out there. He just keeps bobbing up for kick after kick, and knows exactly where to run to find the pill. He is the perfect captain.
• Darren Jolly: He proved that last week’s best on ground display was no fluke, following it up with a four goal, 20 possession game. He is clunking marks strongly and looking really good across the ground. If I had my time again, I’d trade Hille to Jolly, rather than my poor option of Cox.
• Scott Pendlebury: Despite the tag, Pendles still came to the party, racking up 27 disposals with a bonus two goals. Finally, 2010 is presenting itself as a good DT season for Pendlebury - not just Supercoach!

Disappointing:

• Chris Masten: Yes, it was his first game back from injury, but he was poor. Now averages 45 DT points over the past three games - stay well away - he is the DT antichrist!
• Beau Waters: Was given the hard forward tag by Lockyer, and it worked. He was out of the match until given the chance to junk some stats late in the fourth quarter.
• Dean Cox: He just looks to be going through the motions without really pushing himself to his full form. He doesn’t look half the player he once was and my guess is he may be rested as the season comes to an end. Don’t be as stupid as me - stay well away from this DT booby-trap!

Blip on the Radar:

• Jack Anthony: Played the game in defence and wasn’t too bad. But with the imminent inclusion of players such as Maxwell, Anthony will find himself back in the VFL very soon.

Adelaide vs Essendon:

Looking Good:

• Scott Thompson: Thompson continued his great recent form with another best on ground performance. He racked up 34 touches and 8 tackles for the game, and looks to be invigorated by Adelaide’s good recent form.
• Kurt Tippett: Is he back? Well… it certainly looked like it! After being starved of anything resembling form all year, Tippett finally looks to be the same player who finished off 2009 so strongly. He finished this game with six goals, his best for the year, whilst also picking up 16 disposals from his time in the ruck.
• Patrick Ryder: Paddy once again just fell short of the ton, but he was still impressive. He is still carrying the sole ruckman mantle at Essendon and doing it well, finishing the game as the best ruckman on the ground with a game-high 29 hitouts.

Disappointing:

• Bernie Vince: Was tagged out of the game by Welsh and couldn’t join in the party. As I said last week, he is going to struggle to break tags with his lingering injury, so is one to stay away from.
• Michael Quinn: The young Irishman was a somewhat surprise inclusion (especially for owners of Howlett and Prismall who have had to put up with zeros due to their ‘poor disposal’), however he won’t be a surprise dropping for next weeks teams after an ordinary display.
• Michael Hurley: Played at full-forward but was kept scoreless by Rutten. 2010 has proven not to be his year, so I think it’s time we stopped holding our breath, waiting for him to come good.

Blip on the Radar:

• Andrew Welsh: Welsh has proven in previous seasons, and even in this one, that he is capable of the odd DT ton, but he has also proven (much more frequently) that he is capable of very low scoring in the 30-50 range. He may have scored well this week, but as a tagger, this is not what his game is based around.

Geelong vs North Melbourne:

Looking Good:

• Paul Chapman: Straight back from injury and into the action was Chappy. Many coaches breathed a sigh of relief when he wasn’t a late withdrawal, then proceeded to jump for joy as he was the top scorer on-field. He finished with 37 disposals - most of which were by foot.
• James Podsiadly: After a shocker in the wet last week, Pods bounced back with his obligatory five goals at Skilled stadium. But what stood out about his game was not his goal kicking, but his forward pressure. He tackled and harassed all day, which would certainly have impressed the coach.
• Joel Corey: Corey has spent many weeks on the sidelines, so the expectation was that he would come back slowly. But, amazingly he didn’t, not only finishing with 27 disposals, but also an amazing 10 tackles. What is also worth noting is that his game percentage was a very low 75%, intimating that he is back to his ball-winning best.

Disappointing:

• Jack Ziebell: Unfortunately broke his leg very early in the game, ending his season. More sad injury news to another young rising star.
• Travis Varcoe: Maybe I have my sights set too high for Varcoe, but again he did much less than I expected of him. Only the one goal and 13 disposals whilst playing on the much slower Rawlings was a loss for Varcoe - perhaps don’t be taking my advice of a couple of weeks ago to trade him in.
• Lindsay Thomas: It seems that one amazing performance of a few weeks ago will be a once-off for Thomas. He spends too much time going for the freakish, rather than concentrating on the basics. He was penalised with a free against on a couple of occasions for going for speckies when he had no chance of marking the ball… This is proof why you don’t trade in a player after just one game!

Blip on the Radar:

• Matthew Scarlett: Scarlett is a reasonable rebounder, but is typically Geelong’s last line of defence, meaning he plays very deep. Occasionally he will rack up largish scores, as he did in this match, but it is not the norm. This score was thanks to him manning up on the resting ruckman - players very easy to run off, allowing him to pick up more ball across the half-back line.

Richmond vs Sydney:

Looking Good:

• Daniel Connors: Played up the ground and continues to push his game to new heights every time he steps on the football field. He racked up 26 touches and 10 marks whilst playing on O’Keefe and looks to have a lot of confidence in his own ability, which is great to see in such a young player.
• Ryan O’Keefe: O’Keefe is back in the good books after being seemingly out of form for a little while . He was back running through the midfield, clocking up 29 disposals, although it was his huge 11 tackles that really stood out on the stats sheet!
• Jude Bolton: Bolton played a fantastic game, especially in the first half as he really pushed Sydney to their strong lead. He is a great unheralded midfielder, although may be a little inconsistent to be pushing the elite category.

Disappointing:

• Tadhg Kennelly: Was shocking in his first game back from injury. He must be experiencing déjà-vu from when he played his last season of AFL - a year marred with injury and poor form after such a strong start. Now priced under $200k, all his owners will be baffled by their decision to stick with him!
• Ben Cousins: Ben is/was a great player, but at Richmond there are two issues - firstly, he is always the first tagged, and being in a young team he rarely gets support. Secondly, he simply loves to handball - his kick to handball ratio is so poor that even a 30 disposal game will likely see him fall short of the ton.
• Heath Grundy: ‘Reg’ had such a strong start to the year as an attacking defender, however this past month has seen him move back into a more defensive role, killing his DT ability in the process. Averaging just 66 points across the last five weeks, now may be the time to count your losses with him.

Blip on the Radar:

• Will Thursfield: In Thursfield’s 63 game career as a defender, his 96 DT points beat his previous best DT score by more than 30 points! He is strictly a dour defender, and games like this only happen every… well… 63 games I guess.

St.Kilda vs Melbourne:

Looking Good:

• Clinton Jones: Was best on ground by my opinion - spent the first half tagging Davey out of the game, then was freed up to be a midfielder in his own right. He then proceeded to get his hands on just about every clearance and looked to get a whole new lease on his game. This won’t happen very often, however it was good for him to show Ross Lyon what he is capable of.
• Leigh Montagna: Joey just keeps running and running and presenting and presenting. He is such a hard worker and it is no surprise he is constantly racking up the dream team points. Even when the game is done and buried he is still working hard to win the ball.
• Brendon Goddard: Started forward and was the focal point of most of St.Kilda’s attacks. And although he cracked it that he wasn’t kicking enough goals of his own, he was still able to rack up plenty of the pill, finishing with 31 touches.

Disappointing:

• Tom Scully: Played all game on a HFF, which was strange and St.Kilda’s strong defence was able to shut him out of the game. I doubt this is a new role, but rather a way of resting him.
• James Gwilt: Played the best game of his career last week, and whilst again very good against the Dees, Jimmy didn’t rack up nearly the same amount of ball as his did then.
• Nathan Jones: Played the whole game as a tagger, as he has been all year, and it is obviously effecting his scoring.

Blip on the Radar:

• Kyle Cheney: This was his first game for the year, and whilst serviceable to a degree, his strength was his defensive work, not his rebounding. So if he does get another game, don’t be expecting too many dashing runs from defence to accompany it.

Don’t forget to check out the Weekly Wrap from week one of the split round!

Geelong vs St.Kilda:

Looking Good:

• Nick Dal Santo: Dal was let of the Ling leash for the first time in several years and he relished the freedom. He made the most of his lack of tag with 31 touches, 90% of which reached their target - a statistic that suggests that it is unlikely the Cats will allow him this much freedom next time they meet.

• Joel Selwood: Was the Cats best by a mile - his work in the clearances was sublime and he continued to work hard all evening, thriving in the wet, contested conditions. When he initially lined up on Hayes in the first quarter, I must admit I got a bit excited - unfortunately though it didn’t last too long.
• James Gwilt: Gwilt, although not quite making it to a DT ton, was the Saints best through the game with his great drive off half-back. His confidence was clearly up, as was his decision making skills, making him a very threatening player coming off the backline. Not only did he win 27 of his own disposals, but he also shut Podsiadly completely out of the match, keeping him goalless.

Disappointing:

• James Podsiadly: Pods had a night to forget, kicking no majors amongst his 7 disposals - easily his worst return of the year. Admittedly it wasn’t his ideal conditions, but he certainly let down plenty of dream teamers this week.
• Rhys Stanley: Stanley has been serviceable, if not good, in his handful of games this year, however his inclusion has been somewhat of a structural decision rather than one based on form. But now with the imminent return of Riewoldt, Stanley will likely find himself out of the squad - whilst he hasn’t done much to suggest he should be dropped, Lyon is unlikely to give such a young player much of a chance as his team approaches the finals.
• Travis Varcoe: If there is one type of player who can carve up St.Kilda, it is a speedy wingman with great acceleration and ball-handling skills. So it was surprising to see Varcoe given such a small role on the ball in this game, especially in the wet conditions. He should have been given the opportunity to rack up 25 disposals, but instead finished with just 11.

Blip on the Radar:

• Darren Milburn: Milburn is a DT veteran, and is still capable of providing a large score as proven in this game. However, at his age and in the role he predominantly plays in the Cats backline, don’t be expecting many huge scores out of him this year. It is always a huge risk bringing a player of Milburn’s vintage into your side, especially with few trades remaining.

Sydney vs Collingwood:

Looking Good:

• Darren Jolly: Played his best game of the year against his old side and clearly acted like he had something extra to play for. He finished with 17 possessions and was the dominant ruckman on the ground. I considered putting this game down as a blip on the radar due to his average form all year, but the hope can maybe be that this will be his breakout game in the white and black.
• Martin Mattner: Stepped up in the backline in the absence of Kennelly and the relatively low output of the heavily tagged Malceski. He played on Leigh Brown, but had obvious license to rebound, collecting 26 possessions, 7 tackles and 8 marks for the game.
• Heath Shaw: Thrived without any opposition, especially in the first half when Sydney allowed him to roam free as the loose man. He finally received some attention in the second half, but he had fortunately seen enough of the ball early to help himself to his first ton in a little while.

Disappointing:

• Adam Goodes: Was spanked by Presti and didn’t look like his usual attacking self. In Bradshaw’s absence he played closer to goal and this only helped Presti’s plight. Only finished with the 13 touches.
• Leon Davis: When Presti scores more Dream Team points than you, you know you’re in trouble! He started the game with spark, looking dangerous when the ball came in his area, but as soon as he had to do something with it, his confidence went out the window. A whopping five frees against didn’t help his scoring either.
• Daniel Hannebery: Was pretty poor against a quality opposition. Just had one of those games where he couldn’t get anywhere near it.

Blip on the Radar:

• Leigh Brown: Brown is a player who can come out and play one or two blinders a year, but has never proven himself as a consistent dream teamer, nor a consistent participant in the Collingwood side. Don’t ever get sucked into this guy, no matter how many good games he may play.

Adelaide vs Melbourne:

Looking Good:

• Simon Goodwin: The Skipper played one of his better games of the season, running off the half-back line. This was the first time this year the Crows have really shown some consistent form, and if it continues, Goodwin’s form should hopefully continue as he plays out the final weeks of his career.
• Graham Johncock: When actually fit, Stiffy has played some very good games this year, and again his run off half-back was a highlight of the game. He racked up 32 disposals, and as he has proven time and time again, he is also capable of dropping forward for the odd goal.
• Tom Scully: This kid is going to be a star, and it is not hard finding parallels between him and Judd at the same age. His inside work is great for a first year player - he finished with 9 tackles for the game - just think of how good this kid will be in a few years!

Disappointing:

• Brad Miller: Stood by Rutten and did nothing all day, only contributing a solitary behind to the scoreboard. The Dees must be hoping Jurrah isn’t far away!
• Richard Douglas: Played on a forward flank, rather than in the midfield position that has won him plenty of DT fans in the past month or so. Unfortunately, he also chose to handball the footy much more than kicking it, meaning his reasonable 24 disposals only translated to an average 68 points.
• Jordie McKenzie: I don’t quite understand why McKenzie has fallen so quickly out of favour after a great start to the year - this week he was given a run-with role on Bernie Vince, but did a better job at shutting himself out of the contest, finishing with only 11 disposals.

Blip on the Radar:

• Bernie Vince: Vince played well - in fact he finished with 30 disposals and a goal, despite a tag. The worry is though, Neil Craig has blatantly announced that Vince is not 100% fit, and won’t be for the remainder of the year. Whilst he is currently very cheap, and is a very good player, the last thing you should do is trade an unfit player into your squad at this stage of the season. Not only could he miss more games, his game time will likely be down on his average, and he may even be made to sit out the last few games of the year when Adelaide concede that they won’t make finals. Consider him for 2011 instead.

Hawthorn vs Essendon:

Looking Good:

• Lance Franklin: The most talked about individual game of the weekend was Franklin’s, with his two amazing runs down the wing in the last quarter the highlights. He is looking so much more confident in his body and his form this year and could be a really good trade option for those with a weak forward line.
• Jobe Watson: Was especially influential in the second half when the game turned towards the Bombers, despite a tough tag from Sewell. Watson is working just as hard outside the contests these days and it is helping his DT scoring exponentially.
• Michael Osborne: Played more time through the midfield this week and played with plenty of spark through the four quarters. Was one of Hawthorn’s best in delivering the ball inside-50.

Disappointing:

• Michael Hurley: After a very good game last week, Hurley again failed to deliver much fire-power to the Dons. He does try very hard, and it must be remembered he is only in his second year, despite his great finish to 2009.
• Chance Bateman: Played a tagging role on Stanton and it killed his own scoring. He was also concussed in the last quarter, however strangely can’t remember how it happened.
• Luke Hodge: Took a knock to the knee early and it really slowed down his explosiveness. He was also heavily tagged by Welsh who gave him no room, despite the injury. The injury fortunately, doesn’t look serious enough to make him miss any games.

Blip on the Radar:

• Beau Muston: Those who saw the game would have been pretty impressed by Muston in his defensive forward role, but his score of 46 was a clear sign that he should not be a dream team target.

Fremantle vs Carlton:

Looking Good:

• Aaron Sandilands: When Kruezer was injured in the first quarter, big Sandi stepped it up a notch, dominating the much younger Sam Jacobs. He came one hitout short of the magical 50 mark, also clocking up 19 disposals and a bonus goal.
• Michael Barlow: Played more around the half-forward flanks, but it didn’t hinder his ball-winning abilities at all. He racked up another 30 possessions, as well as a very good four goals.
• Andrew Walker: Was one of the Blues best as a rebounder off the half-back line. He has been playing this role really well this year, and most importantly, consistently - he reached 27 disposals with 12 marks.

Disappointing:

• Heath Scotland: Second week in a row he has been down on form, only reaching 20 disposals, despite still playing through the midfield. The Blues had very little lift or form through the first three quarters and Scotland helped tell that tale.
• Alex Silvagni: Played in defence on Henderson and only had 6 disposals - his lowest of the year. He shouldn’t lose his spot, but the arrival of Roberton may take some of his kicks.
• Matthew Kruezer: Landed awkwardly in the first quarter and it was all bad news for the rising star - it was confirmed on Sunday that he has ruptured his ACL and will miss the remainder of the year.

Blip on the Radar:

• Garrick Ibbotson: In his 50^th game, seemed to attract more ball than usual, playing in the backline. He plays shut-down roles these days, so occasional big scores like this one are more due to over-possessing the ball than a role change.

Brisbane vs Richmond:

Looking Good:

• Jack Redden: It’s not surprising this kid has now played a couple of very good games in a row after a great breakout season in 2009. Unfortunately, it’s only been the past couple of weeks we have seen this promised form after a slowish start to the year. He is a great in-and-under players and looks to be one of the few Lions who are trying to lead a team quickly falling apart.
• Angus Graham: Has been thriving this past month as Richmond’s number one ruckman - once again he produced the goods, racking up 23 disposals and 12 marks for the game.
• Daniel Connors: In his second game back from suspension, Connors was again a highlight for the Tigers. He looks very dedicated to paying the club back after his earlier indiscretions and is certainly going the right way about it with a strong 23 possession game.

Disappointing:

• Brendan Fevola: In his 200^th game, Fev had an absolute stinker. Despite being the target of 13 Brisbane inside-50s, he only capitalised with the one goal. In Vossy’s presser afterwards, strong intimations came that no-one was safe, even Fevola - if I were him I’d be pretty concerned about my spot in the team right about now.

• Trent Cotchin: He is a class player but just can’t handle the tag - this time, the attention of Sheldon kept him to just the 46 points.
• Ben Griffiths: I only had to bring it up as it is the first time (which I can remember) that this has happened - thanks to Griffith’s first three scores of 19, 15 and 19, could he be the first $89k player to go DOWN in price after his first three games??

Blip on the Radar:

• Matt White: White played well around the half-forward line, and he presents himself as a good player, but he currently looks much more like a player who will break out in 2011 than in the latter half of this year. In a young team and consistently thrown between roles, inconsistent scores can be expected.

Port Adelaide vs North Melbourne:

Looking Good:

• Brent Harvey: Harvey was best afield for the Roos and Port had no answers for him, with neither Kane Cornes or Cassisi capable of shutting him down. Harvey is a top DT choice, however his main flaw is his ability to pull out the odd mega shocker - his ability to break the tag this week and the Roos good form are both good signs though!
• Jay Schulz: Booted seven goals as the most dominant forward on the ground. His form has been decent this year, but seven goals was totally out of the box from what we should typically expect of Schultz.
• Lachlan Hansen: Is starting to become accustomed to his new role up forward and his press in the papers didn’t seem to do him too badly either as he kicked five goals on Chad Cornes. I am still a sceptic, but he may not be as poor an option as I have originally suggested.

Disappointing:

• Lindsay Thomas: After his mega game last week, Thomas returned to his usual form with a standard 1.3 goals. Proof that you shouldn’t jump on a player after just one good game.
• Jackson Trengove: Second week in a row he has stunk it up now, which is unfortunate, as the past two weeks are about the only ones he will have been needed all season thanks to him covering for plenty of teams who have the injured Hille.
• Mitch Banner: Many were relieved to see him return, but a low game time saw him feature only a little in the stats. Only finished with the 15 disposals, well down on what he made us expect earlier in the year.

Blip on the Radar:

• Jacob Surjan: Surjan has been having a good year, but he is your typical tough-nut defender who does more one-percenters than he has disposals. In this game he held Lindsay Thomas tight and was allowed to run off him on occasion - something that won’t be allowed by his opponents too frequently this year.

Western Bulldogs vs West Coast:

Looking Good:

• Daniel Giansiracusa: Gia played a very good game again as a permanent forward, kicking two goals. He is still learning the role, but his leading up the flanks is getting stronger and he was the Bulldogs best player in the first half. Fortunately, he is also building on his consistency - something that has been queried so far this season.
• Beau Waters: Another strong game in the backline where he played loose man for the first three quarters. He drifts around and gets so much of the ball - he also uses it pretty well too so his teammates will continue to trust him with it. His role also sees him drifting into the midfield on occasions - his game could be well likened to Malceski or Duffield.
• Jarrod Harbrow: Played further afield thanks to the lack of Eagle small forwards and he played very well. However, I wouldn’t be expecting a permanent shift thanks to his great form to date as a defender.

Disappointing:

• Josh Kennedy: Just couldn’t exert any influence on the contest, only kicking the one goal through a good mark in the third term. Was very well held by Morris - also, the delivery from West Coast’s backline was shocking, certainly not helping his case.
• Brad Johnson: This was Johno’s first game back from an achilles injury and he certainly doesn’t look 100% - I predict a few DTers will look at Johnson’s price and get a bit excited, but already he has proven this year that he is no longer capable of the sort of scoring that was expected of him a few years ago. Also, his body can no longer be trusted.
• Barry Hall: When Jack Riewoldt kicked 10 goals against the WCE backline last week, Hall owners may have been excited about his prospects in this game. Unfortunately, he could only make it to three goals for the game.

Blip on the Radar:

• Will Schofield: Schofield played his game on both Lake and Johnson - two players who hate standing still and love venturing far away from their direct opponent, styles which allowed Schofield to be left alone plenty of times through the game and attract plenty of the ball as loose man. Whilst he is progressing well as a defender, he is not the right choice for dream team.