News Herald Sun SuperCoach Articles

[Presto]

Gilbert Gardiner names his top 40 SuperCoach players for 2018
Gilbert Gardiner, Herald Sun
February 12, 2018 8:00am
Subscriber only

LET’S agree on one thing, it’s complicated.
Tapped with the job of naming the top 40 SuperCoach players of 2018, the top three pick themselves as standouts in respective positions.
Then it gets hard. The midfield is the minefield.
Patrick Dangerfield and Gary Ablett had to be in the top 10, but at what price?
The secret to AFL SuperCoach, Australia’s biggest and best fantasy game with a $50,000 cash prize for the overall winner, is finding the right balance between price and potential.
Patrick Dangerfield topped the SuperCoach averages in 2016 and 2017. Can he do it again?
Dangerfield deserved to be the most expensive player after he averaged 136 points last season.
But the return to Geelong of SuperCoach GOAT Gary Ablett could bring the explosive No. 35 back to the fantasy pack.
There will be a squeeze on midfield minutes and points at Geelong this season, with bulls Dangerfield, Ablett and Joel Selwood leading the way.
Add sharp improver Mitch Duncan and big-bodied midfielder Sam Menegola to the mix and it’s a recipe for fantasy friction.

The top 40 was devised on the following SuperCoach principles: price, potential, balance, expectation and consistency.
With AFLX and JLT Series matches still to come, there could be other players who emerge as potential candidates closer to Round 1.
The 40-man squad is made up of 16 midfielders, nine defenders, nine forwards, three dual-position players and three ruckmen.
Rory Laird (2) is the only defender in the top-10, while Isaac Heeney (3) is the highest-rated listed forward.
North Melbourne draftee Luke Davies-Uniacke sits atop the “cash cow” division from untried Adelaide defender Tom Doedee, the highly-rated fourth-year Crow expected to fill the void left by Jake Lever.
Only three members of the 2017 AFL draft class made the squad.
Lachie Neale, Matthew Kreuzer, Tom Rockliff and Elliot Yeo, due to interrupted pre-season and uncertainty of role, headline those unlucky to miss out.


1. MAX GAWN (MEL) $503,700 RUCK
Premium ruckman at a bargain price, Gawn ticks every box in SuperCoach. At the price and potential, Gawn is the definition of set and forget.

2. RORY LAIRD (ADEL) $550,800 DEFENDER
Honest as the day is long, Laird should see a spike in performance with Brodie Smith (knee) out of action. The Crows ball magnet has also demonstrated a willingness to push up the ground in recent seasons. Get on.

3. ISAAC HEENEY (SYD) $536,300 FORWARD/MIDFIELDER
No questions asked the most exciting young player in the competition. The complete package, Heeney is able to impact in the air and on the ground regardless of position. He averaged 97 last year after missing a large chunk of the pre-season with glandular fever. The only way is up.

4. NATHAN FYFE (FREM) $597,900 MIDFIELDER
At $60,000 cheaper than Dustin Martin (see below), the 2016 Brownlow medallist is primed to reclaim his crown as the best player in the game after two seasons wrecked by injury. And what a sight it could be, watching Fyfe, Martin and the No. 35 at Geelong duke it out in 2018.

5. DUSTIN MARTIN (RIC) $656,000 MIDFIELDER
Eight scores of 130 or more command respect in this form of the game. Still a margin to Patrick Dangerfield in averages (119 v 136) but the premiership-winning Tiger could bridge the gap this season. And he’s nearly $100k cheaper.

6. JOSH KELLY (GWS) $626,600 MIDFIELDER
Had nine-million reasons to be distracted last season and yet the Giants superstar only got better the longer the season went on. The blue-chip fantasy stock averaged 114 points last season — up 30 on the year before. Wins the ball, uses it well and kicks goals. Tick, tick, BOOM!

7. PATRICK DANGERFIELD (GEEL) $749,800 MIDFIELDER
Should be No. 1, but the competition for points at the Cattery with the arrival of SuperCoach GOAT Gary Ablett, makes Dangerfield too big a risk at the median price of a house in Torquay.

8. TOM MITCHELL (HAW) $653,500 MIDFIELDER
Proven accumulator developing a nose for kicking goals. What Mitchell lacks in explosiveness and X-Factor he more than makes up for in consistency.

9. GARY ABLETT (GEEL) $631,100 MIDFIELDER
Will want to make amends after tough year on the Glitter Strip but with Dangerfield, Joel Selwood, Mitch Duncan and maybe Sam Menegola competing for SuperCoach points, it’s impossible to pick the Little Master with any confidence. Hasn’t played 20 games in a season since 2013.

10. MATT CROUCH (ADEL) $608,300 MIDFIELDER
Breakout season saw the younger brother of Brad finish just outside the top-five scorers, but the arrival of Bryce Gibbs and a more consistent Sloane could take a bite out of the Crows’ tally.
Gary Ablett has a point to prove at Geelong in 2018. Picture: Alison Wynd
Patrick Cripps is available at a discount price after an injury-interrupted 2017 season.

11. PATRICK CRIPPS (CARL) $537,300 MIDFIELDER
Already a SuperCoach beast despite an injury interrupted 2017 season. The contested ball magnet should take further improvement from a faultless preseason at Princes Park. Not unlike Heeney, Cripps could be the story of 2018.

12. MICHAEL HURLEY (ESS) $563,500 DEFENDER
Reads the play as well as anyone and racks up big numbers in defence. Intercept possessions, contested marks and precise disposals make Hurley a SuperCoach lock. The Bomber could be nice one-two fantasy punch with Adam Saad. A wrist injury in Essendon’s intraclub match is a slight cause for concern.

13. PATRICK RYDER (PA) $566,500 RUCK
Traditionally don’t like spending up big on ruckmen but Ryder could be the major beneficiary of Port Adelaide’s expected improvement, with a loaded midfield at his feet. The All-Australian is one of the safer options in depleted big man stocks.

14. DAYNE ZORKO (BRIS) $608,900 MIDFIELDER
Zorko has been criminally underrated carrying a depleted Lions midfield for several seasons. Now, with Dayne Beams back in action and host of exciting cubs in the pipeline, we could see the very best of the gamebreaker. Zorko loads up on contested possessions and best of all, is not afraid to back himself within goalkicking range.
Ignore Dayne Zorko at your peril.

15. CLAYTON OLIVER (MEL) $612,800 MIDFIELDER
Oliver caught everyone bar his Melbourne teammates by surprise last season when he emerged as one of the most damaging midfielders in the game. A bull at the contest, Oliver will be a lock for many years to come, but want to see him repeat the dose first.

16. SCOTT PENDLEBURY (COLL) $586,500 MIDFIELDER
Mr Consistent or ‘DePendlebury’ in other circles, the Collingwood must be considered in every SuperCoach squad. Look, there has been talk of him moving into a role across half back but let’s be serious for a second. Pendlebury is still Collingwood’s No. 1 midfielder by some margin and should play a considerable amount of football in and around stoppages, it’s where he does his best work.

17. LUKE DAVIES-UNIACKE (NM) $189,300 MIDFIELDER
The Marcus Bontempelli clone averaged 134 points in the TAC Cup. Not cheap, but will play in the Kangaroos midfield from Round 1 barring any setbacks.

18. JACK STEVEN (STK) $498,600 MIDFIELDER
Took a step back last year but should benefit from more depth and experience in the St Kilda’s engine room with the return of David Armitage. A proven scorer capable of going large, Steven best work is done on the outside streaming forward.

19. JAKE STRINGER (ESS) $356,000 FORWARD
Boom recruit doing everything right at Tullamarine and slated for important role in the midfield replacing retired extractors Jobe Watson and Brent Stanton. Explosive both inside and outside of the contest, the former Western Bulldogs premiership star looms as the bargain buy of the season.
Jake Stringer will play more in the midfield at Essendon where he can win more of the ball — and score more SuperCoach points.

20. TOBY GREENE (GWS) $528,100 FORWARD
The firebrand Giant has all the tools to be a set-and-forget forward but Greene remains prone to drifting in and out of games and brain explosions. He plays on the edge and as a result there is the added risk of suspension.

21. JACK BILLINGS (STK) $509,500 FORWARD
A new set-shot routine should hopefully give Billings a boost this season. He finished poorly in front of goal last year (23.36) yet still averaged 93. Risk v reward.

22. TOM DOEDEE (ADEL) $123,900 DEFENDER
Highly-rated South Australian expected to fill the void left by Jake Lever. Fresh off a breakout SANFL season, Doedee looks to have good job security and solid scoring potential.

23. LANCE FRANKLIN (SYD) $540,500 FORWARD
For all the hype around Franklin the superstar Swan has not averaged 100-plus since a blistering 2012 season. That said, few could be more damaging than Franklin with limited possessions and therefore he must be considered. With a knack of bullying the lower teams, Franklin could be deployed either side of the bye when the Swans’ fixture softens.

24. KADE SIMPSON (CARL) $516,300 DEFENDER
Still averaged 93 last year despite Sam Docherty (knee) hording possessions in the backline. Warrior Simpson could wind back the clock in 2018 and nudge back into the triple-figure range with an increased workload.

25. JOE DANIHER (ESS) $472,800
Daniher has already drawn comparisons with Lance Franklin for his goalkicking and athleticism, and now the 200cm father-son jet could match motors with the Swans superstar in fantasyland as well after averaging 86 points — up 20 — last year. A similar bounce would make him one of the most sought-after forwards in the game.

26. LUKE DAHLHAUS (WB) $498,500 FORWARD
No reason why the damaging Bulldog can’t bounce back after struggling for consistency last year. Would like to see Dahlhaus kick the ball more than he does and hit the scoreboard.

27. PAUL AHERN (NM) $123,900 MIDFIELDER/FORWARD
Ex-GWS Giants pick No. 7 could have an immediate impact at North Melbourne after fighting back from two knee reconstructions. Hungry to perform at the level, the 21-year-old could be the biggest SuperCoach steal of the season.

28. NIC NAITANUI (WCE) $465,900 RUCKMAN
The sixth-most popular player in the game (39 per cent ownership) despite the truckload of risk associated with the flying Eagle. Purely on price, talent and potential, Nic Nat should be in the top 15 of this list, but the fact he could just as easily score 160 in Round 1 or miss 10 weeks worries me.

29. DION PRESTIA (RIC) $456,000 MIDFIELDER
Struck form towards the back end of the season and could go on with the job now with a full preseason at Punt Road. More than capable of being a regular 100-plus contributor riding shotgun with Dustin Martin and Trent Cotchin.

30. ADAM SAAD (ESS) $399,800 DEFENDER
Speedster has slotted nicely into Essendon’s best 22 where he will be used across half back and through the midfield. Averaged 73 in three seasons at Gold Coast but should be a lot more offensive now in a better overall team with more weapons at his disposal.

31. TOM LIBERATORE (WB) $434,600 MIDFIELDER
Few are better than Libba at the contest, fearless and ferocious he does things that make SuperCoach bean-counters blush. He tackles with intent, wins clearances and contested possessions. The Bulldogs premiership star could bounce back with vengeance in 2018.

32. TIM KELLY (GEEL) $117,300 MIDFIELDER
Overlooked in five previous national drafts, the mature-aged West Australian recruit has been a standout at Kardinia Park, vying for a place Geelong’s All-Star midfield. Kelly could find a home alongside the “big three” or across half forward. Watch closely.

33. RORY LOBB (GWS) $396,500 FORWARD
Someone is going to have to ruck for the Giants with Shane Mumford hanging up the boots and Lobb could be the man in question. The Giants looked good with Lobb in the ruck at time last year, and as long as the versatile big man has the engine to boot he could be our new Toby Nankervis.

34. SAM MURRAY (COLL) $123,900 DEFENDER
A must-have cash cow prospect, the former Sydney Swans speedster was recruited for a reason. The clean distributor will play, early and often, as the Magpies small defender.

35. ALEX WITHERDEN (BRIS) $478,900 DEFENDER
Will it be a second-year boom or bust? Witherden came from the clouds last year to average 87 points from nine senior games. He needs only a 10 per cent bump this time around to be seriously considered as potential keeper in the backline.

36. ANDREW MCGRATH (ESS) $388,400 DEFENDER
If whispers around Tullamarine are correct about McGrath spending more time in the midfield then get on. Awkwardly priced purely as a defender but tremendous upside and potential to be the next Clayton Oliver and explode in his second year. Will be a lock for years to come.
Allen Christensen presents huge value at the Lions this year.

37. ALLEN CHRISTENSEN (BRIS) $267,300 FORWARD
Still at the Lions, forgotten forward Christensen is worth a look during the AFLX and JLT Series. It feels like an eternity ago, but the luckless Lion, who has battled shoulder injuries the past two years, used to walk in 90-type scores at Geelong. Tremendous value and upside.

38. DANIEL WELLS (COLL) $390,900 FORWARD/MIDFIELDER
This will get keyboard warriors flying over their fantasy handlebars. The classy midfielder is underpriced for potential after injury and fitness wrecked a forgettable 2017 debut season at Collingwood. Wells has returned in tiptop shape and could help propel the Magpies back to the finals. Averaged 84 in eight games last year, excluding the 15 and 20 he scored when injured during games against Fremantle and North Melbourne.

39. LIAM RYAN (WCE) $117,300 FORWARD
Untapped potential at senior level the WAFL excitement machine booted 73 goals in 20-odd games last season. Ryan has been training with the starting-six Eagles and need only kick 40 goals at AFL level to be a worthy SuperCoach contributor, especially in the first half of the season.

40. CAM O’SHEA (CARL) $166,000 DEFENDER
The ex-Port Adelaide defender given a second-chance at Carlton after spending a year at VFL level will be hungry to compete. In the conversation as the potential replacement for Sam Docherty (knee). Monitor through the JLT Serie

 

[Presto]

The Phantom’s 2018 SuperCoach pre-season: The back-line money makers
The Phantom, The Advertiser
February 12, 2018 8:50am
Subscriber only

CASH cows are the backbone of any good SuperCoach team. From first-year draftees to mature-age recruits and those who have been around a while but yet to make their mark. Before the all-important JLT Series, The Phantom takes you through the rookie-price options in defence.

THE TOP DRAFTEES

Nick Coffield (StK) $171,300
Although he caught the eye of recruiters with his ability to intercept and set up the play from half-back, the versatile Coffield played a variety of positions throughout his junior career.
And, in his first pre-season at the Saints, the classy right-footer, who averaged 21 disposals — at 76 per cent efficiency — and 100 SuperCoach points in the TAC Cup last season, has been working closely with the midfield group.
The word is last year’s No. 8 pick can match it with the big boys already, meaning we should see plenty of Coffield during the JLT Series.
The Phantom’s Verdict: Should be high on your JLT Series watchlist.

Aaron Naughton (WB) $166,800
At 195cm and 89kg, with senior football experience in the WAFL, the versatile key defender is ready to go.
Aaron Naughton impressed after debuting for eventual premier Peel Thunder in the WAFL last year.
After recording the most disposals and SuperCoach points out of all key defenders at the national under-18 championships, Naughton broke into Peel Thunder’s senior side as a 17-year-old in 2017.
And he wasn’t just making up the numbers.
In his seven games, the athletic Naughton averaged 14 disposals, seven marks — four of them intercepts — and 117 SuperCoach points.
The average intercept marks for key defenders in the AFL in 2017 was 1.7 and, in just his second senior appearance in the WAFL, Naughton tallied eight in a single game.
The Phantom’s Verdict: Naughton’s numbers are hard to ignore and he’s ready to step straight into AFL footy, meaning we should see plenty of him during his debut season.

IT’S TIME

Tom Doedee (Adel) $123,900
In 2018, his third year on the list, it’s time for the Crows to unleash Doedee.
With Jake Lever moving to Melbourne and Brodie Smith to miss most of the season through injury, there is an opportunity for Doedee to make his mark in Adelaide’s back half.
And, after averaging more intercept marks and possessions than any other defender in the SANFL last year, the 20-year-old is ready to fill the void.
The Phantom is not the only one to speak highly of Doedee, who finished runner-up behind Scott Thompson in the Crows’ SANFL club champion, either
On the first day of pre-season training, fellow defender Jake Kelly labelled Doedee “a special player’’.
The Phantom’s Verdict: Lock him in. The Phantom can’t see him not being there in Round 1.

Isaac Cumming (GWS) $117,300
With the injury to Zac Williams and departure of Nathan Wilson, it could also be time for the 19-year-old dashing defender to push his way into the Giants side.
Isaac Cumming impressed in the NEAFL last season. Picture: Mark Dadswell
The GWS Academy product, selected at pick No. 20 in the 2016 draft, impressed in the NEAFL last season, with his ball-use a highlight.
Cumming, who won more than 25 disposals in six games, scored more than 100 SuperCoach points in six of the final 11 matches of 2017.
Yes, Heath Shaw is still back there but the Giants need to replace the speed and precision kicking that both Williams and Wilson provided.
The Phantom’s Verdict: We’ll see him at some point in 2018. Fingers crossed it’s in Round 1.

RECYCLED GOLD

Cam O’Shea (Carl) $166,000
In 2013, O’Shea played every game for Port Adelaide, averaging a very serviceable — and career-high — 74 SuperCoach points.
Fast forward three years and, after only playing 32 of a possible 66 games, O’Shea found himself on the outer at Alberton. At the end of the 2016 season, he was delisted.
In 2017, the 25-year-old moved back to Melbourne to play with Carlton’s VFL affiliate the Northern Blues.
And what a great decision it was.
After winning the best-and-fairest and averaging 23 disposals and 91 SuperCoach points, O’Shea was picked up by Carlton in the pre-season draft.
In the absence of injured star Sam Docherty, O’Shea, who has 81 AFL games to his name, is vying for a spot across at half-back.
The Phantom’s Verdict: We haven’t heard much about O’Shea in the new year but the JLT Series should tell us more about Carlton’s plan. If he’s there Round 1, he’ll be a reliable cash cow.

Sam Murray (Coll) $123,900
Without a senior appearance to his name, Murray’s move from Sydney to Collingwood was one of the surprises of last year’s trade period.
After spending his first year in the Swans’ reserves as a forward, the 20-year-old was recast as a rebounding defender in 2017 with great success.
The 187cm left-footer averaged 22 disposals — at 77 per cent efficiency — six intercept possessions, six score involvements and 94 SuperCoach points in his new role.
And his performances raised eyebrows from afar with the Magpies giving up a future second-round selection for the hard-running Murray.
The Phantom’s Verdict: Clubs do not just throw those selections away so expect Murray to be in Collingwood’s plans early on.

ANOTHER CHANCE

Mitch Hibberd (NM) $169,300
Hibberd was a popular rookie-priced selection in SuperCoach last season after an impressive summer earned him a Round 1 debut.
Brad Scott obviously didn’t like what he saw because Hibberd, after just 10 disposals and 23 SuperCoach points, was back in the VFL.
We didn’t see Hibberd until strong, consistent VFL form saw him force his way back into the senior side in Round 15. While he had little impact in his return game, the 192cm defender, who boasts elite endurance, was outstanding in Round 16 tallying 22 disposals — at 86 per cent efficiency — seven marks and 74 SuperCoach points.
Unfortunately, Hibberd was struck down by injury in the first quarter of the Round 17 clash with Port Adelaide.
But that means his rookie price tag remains.
So can we give the 21-year-old, who held off new recruit — and running machine — Billy Hartung to win the 2km time trial at the start of pre-season, another chance in 2018?
The Phantom’s Verdict: If Hibberd can put in a strong JLT Series, he may prove more reliable than a first-year draftee.

TOP-PRICE

Jack Scrimshaw (GC) $202,300
While he didn’t see the world on fire in 2017, expect the 193cm rebounding defender to build on his four-game debut season.
At this stage of his career, Scrimshaw, who averaged 56 SuperCoach points in his first three games before a disappointing score of 17, will be hoping to lockdown a spot at half-back and utilise his damaging left-foot and intercept ability.
But, as the 19-year-old develops, he has the qualities to turn himself into a Marcus Bontempelli-like midfielder.
The Phantom’s Verdict: If he can cement his spot in the Suns’ best 22, Scrimshaw should post some decent numbers given his weapons.

Brandon White (St K) $225,800
The neat-kicking left-footer played one game in his debut season of 2016, hitting the target with 12 of his 13 disposals to finish with 45 points, despite hurting his arm, against the Lions in Round 23.
Brandon White could get his chance for the Saints following the retirement of Leigh Montagna. Picture: Michael Klein
In 2017, White was again forced to bide his time in the VFL before winning promotion in Round 19. In the three matches that followed, the dashing defender won 13, 16 and 10 disposals — all at more than 80 per cent efficiency — in each game respectively, to average 59 SuperCoach points.
While these numbers don’t scream ‘pick me’, the 21-year-old’s effective ball-use and decision making, which was again on show during the club’s recent match simulation session, will have him in the selection frame early in 2018, especially with the retirement of Leigh Montagna.
The Phantom’s Verdict: Expensive but one to keep an eye on.

THE FAIRYTALE

David Mirra (Haw) $102,400
An early-season debut for the mature-age recruit, who averaged 127 SuperCoach points in the final five games of the VFL season, would be a fairytale. Not only for the 26-year-old who had previously been overlooked in every draft in since 2009 but for SuperCoaches, given our love for bottom-price rookie option.

 

[freowho]

Hard to find the defensive rookies at the moment. Doedee seems to be the most likely but the others all appear outside of the best 22 rnd 1 teams. Not even a decent donut you could sit at D8.
My question if it looks bad, do you take an expensive cash cow like Bonner, Howard, Morrison or do you take an almost keeper like McGrath, Salem, Sicily?

 

[BigRuss]

Hard to find the defensive rookies at the moment. Doedee seems to be the most likely but the others all appear outside of the best 22 rnd 1 teams. Not even a decent donut you could sit at D8.
My question if it looks bad, do you take an expensive cash cow like Bonner, Howard, Morrison or do you take an almost keeper like McGrath, Salem, Sicily?

I think if that situation arises I prefer to go deep on premiums. In most cases the expensive cash cows are less likely to make the same amount as the cheaper ones. Load up on that line and find the best rookies elsewhere IMO.

 

[jaca]

I think if that situation arises I prefer to go deep on premiums. In most cases the expensive cash cows are less likely to make the same amount as the cheaper ones. Load up on that line and find the best rookies elsewhere IMO.

Agreed. I'd love to have 6 mids, 4 fwds... but if only Doedee (or whoever appears), I'll add one of the 45479 WCE rookie forwards in.

 

[freowho]

I think if that situation arises I prefer to go deep on premiums. In most cases the expensive cash cows are less likely to make the same amount as the cheaper ones. Load up on that line and find the best rookies elsewhere IMO.

Are you saying 6 defensive premiums?
Or 5 defensive premiums, doedee and 2 non playing on the bench?

 

[Rowsus]

The Def line was the one I wanted to avoid having too many Prems.
It really looks a problem now. Dodgy Rookies, AND dodgy Prems!

 

[Jurn Stern]

The Def line was the one I wanted to avoid having too many Prems.
It really looks a problem now. Dodgy Rookies, AND dodgy Prems!

Hold off on the def rookie judgement. It’s a usually stable area for rookies, better than forwards most years, and I think we’ll see 4 reasonable JS ones, plus 1-4 potential high scoring ones.

 

[BigRuss]

Are you saying 6 defensive premiums?
Or 5 defensive premiums, doedee and 2 non playing on the bench?

Ideally I'd like to run with 3, but if the rookies don't come up, then they don't come up. I don't think completely loading one line up with 6 premiums is ever the right choice.

I'd try and pick 3 as close to known quantities as possible (Laird Hurley Simpson for example) and 2 breakout types(McGrath/Hanley/Sicily types) if we only had 3 rookies of the lower price bracket. I try and shy away from the 200kish wherever possible, though you have to take each on merit (SPS, Marchbank, WHE from last year for example)

I think it's prudent to prepare a variety of structures you're comfortable with so when the team sheets drop on that Wednesday/Thursday, you're not in a mad scramble to completely overhaul your structure.

 

[Herbie66]

surely we can get 4 playing ones out of :-

Coffield, Hibberd, Naughton, O'Shea, O'Brien, R Smith, Buckley, J smith, Richards, Murphy

any number of ones priced at $ 123,900 eg Cumming, Doedee, Finlayson, Morgan, Murray, Watson + McPherson, Payne & Mirra

I have been toying with 5/6 rookie backs and loading up my forward line

 

[PC]

Gee I hope we have the luxury of a 5 rookie backline Herbie

 

[Herbie66]

Gee I hope we have the luxury of a 5 rookie backline Herbie

I was pretty confident we would , I guess a lot more people on here have more info regarding we won't.

Every season though the rookies show up for Round 1.

 

[Goodie's Guns]

I was pretty confident we would , I guess a lot more people on here have more info regarding we won't.

Every season though the rookies show up for Round 1.

I'm with you Herbie, atm I'm actually more confident in picking my DEF and FWD rookies than I am my DEF and FWD premiums.

 

[Herbie66]

I'm with you Herbie, atm I'm actually more confident in picking my DEF and FWD rookies than I am my DEF and FWD premiums.

Cheers Goodies.

I am confident that Heater , Hanley and Sicily will all be premiums and my 5 rookie defenders will all go at 65 +

 

[NT.Thunder]

Let the injuries kick in over the next few weeks as training and JLT ramps up, we'll see a few that will cover us.

 

[Presto]

SuperCoach 2018 rookie bible: All the cheap players you should consider
Al Paton and Kate Salemme, Herald Sun
February 12, 2018 7:00pm
Subscriber only

SELECTING the right cheapies is the key to SuperCoach success.
We love having Patrick Dangerfield, Dustin Martin and Lance Franklin in the same SuperCoach side, but you can’t afford all of the big guns.
To fit a squad within your $10 million salary cap you need 10-15 players priced at under $200,000 — “rookies” in SuperCoach language.
They will fill your bench and take the last one or two (or three, if you’re really bold) on-field spots in defence, the midfield and forward line.
Scroll down to the bottom of the player list in each position and you’ll see dozens of names in that price bracket you’ve probably never heard of. So who do you pick?
We’re here to help.
Player values are based on a three-week rolling average so to shoot up in price they need to score well (anything above 70 points a week is good for a rookie). Most importantly, they need to play regular games.
Here’s an early take on the kids expected to get games early in 2018 (check back tomorrow for the top mature-age recruits).

DEFENDERS

AARON NAUGHTON (WESTERN BULLDOGS) $166,800
The Dogs’ backline was in disarray at the end of last season and part of the fix is the 195cm West Australian who was snapped up at pick nine in last year’s draft. An intercept mark specialist, he averaged 117 SuperCoach points at Colts (under-18) level and is ready to play right away after making seven senior appearances in the WAFL last year. “I had a big off-season in the gym last year and put on a bit of size ... hopefully those senior games will put me in good stead to put my hand up for Round 1,” Naughton told the West Australian. Should be high on your watch list.

LOCHIE O’BRIEN (CARLTON) $162,300 DEF/MID
The next Kade Simpson? One of Carlton’s two top-10 picks at last year’s draft (pick 10), O’Brien is a former national 400m runner and Victorian 3km cross-country champion noted for his laser left boot. A good decision maker with a huge tank, he will run up and down the wing all day. But does he win enough of the footy to score well? One to watch in the pre-season competition.
The Bulldogs’ top two picks Aaron Naughton and Ed Richards after last year’s draft in Sydney.

JARROD BRANDER (WEST COAST) $148,800 DEF/FWD
A good rule to follow in SuperCoach is not to pick key-position rookies. They usually take longer to develop and don’t score as well as smaller players. All that applies to Brander, a 194cm swingman, despite talk of a possible Round 1 debut.

ED RICHARDS (WESTERN BULLDOGS) $135,300
A classy half-back flanker from the Oakleigh Chargers who went at pick 16 in the draft. Not a huge ball winner and still has plenty of weight to put on. Dogs recruiter Simon Dalrymple’s comment after the draft is a word of caution about jumping on now: “We think with ample time in the system, he’s an exciting prospect.”

TOM DOEDEE (ADELAIDE) $123,900
Crows fans and SuperCoach players hope Doedee will step straight into the spot in the Adelaide backline vacated by Jake Lever. A former No. 17 draft pick, Doedee plays just like Lever — he was the No. 1 intercept player in the SANFL last season (a stat rated highly in SuperCoach). He also finished second in the Crows’ state league best-and-fairest, behind veteran Scott Thompson. If he’s part of the back six (Alex Keath and Kyle Cheney are other contenders for the Lever vacancy), he’s a safe bench pick.

ISAAC CUMMING (GWS) $123,900
The departure of Nathan Wilson to Fremantle and a season-ending achilles injury to Zac Williams open the door for this 19-year-old Giants academy product. He developed nicely in the NEAFL last season, scoring above 100 SuperCoach points in six of his final 11 games and showing promising signs as an intercept defender.

CONNOR BALLENDEN (BRISBANE) $117,300 DEF/FWD
Academy draft pick is finding his way into a few SuperCoach teams but he’s unlikely to appear at AFL level early in the season. The versatile 198cm big man can play key forward, back and in the ruck and could be a good pick down the track, but not this year.

NATHAN MURPHY (COLLINGWOOD) $117,300 DEF/FWD
The No. 39 draft pick scored 141 SuperCoach points in one TAC Cup game last year but he only gave up cricket for footy a year ago so its likely to be a long-term project — not what we’re looking for.
Andrew Brayshaw (second from left) and Adam Cerra (second from right) are players to watch. Pic: Getty Images

MIDFIELDERS

ANDREW BRAYSHAW (FREMANTLE) $198,300
The Dockers love Brayshaw so much not only did they grab him with pick 2 in the draft, they have already signed him to a two-year contract extension before he makes a senior appearance. So expect him to play early. Brayshaw wins clearances and kicks goals, a good formula for SuperCoach scoring — as evidenced by his average of 131 in the TAC Cup. Could be worth the elevated price tag given to high draft picks.

WILL SETTERFIELD (GWS) $195,700
A year older than most rookies after his first season was curtailed by an ankle injury. Broke through for two senior games late in the year and didn’t set the world on fire but he recorded outstanding numbers at NEAFL level playing across half-forward, where the Giants need a boost. A tackling machine who could be a smart selection.

PADDY DOW (CARLTON) $193,800
Carlton’s top pick in last year’s draft (pick 3) is a clearance specialist in the mould of Marcus Bontempelli who averaged 119 SuperCoach points in the TAC Cup. Kicked seven goals in a game for Geelong Grammar before his year was cut short by a shoulder injury. The Blues say he’s on track for a Round 1 debut — we want to see him in action in the pre-season before committing.

LUKE DAVIES-UNIACKE (NORTH MELBOURNE) $189,300
If you’re going to spend extra on a first-year player, “LDU” might be the man. The No. 4 draft pick is ready to play right away and there are spots available in the North Melbourne midfield. Everyone who saw him lead the Dandenong Stringrays to victory after their trailed by 50 points at halftime in week one of the TAC Cup finals has definitely got him — that day he had 33 disposals, 21 contested possessions, a goal and 184 SuperCoach points.
North Melbourne recruit Luke Davies-Uniacke has drawn comparisons to Marcus Bontempelli. Picture: Michael Klein

WILL BRODIE (GOLD COAST) $187,700
A top-10 draft pick in 2016, Brodie played only three games last year for modest SuperCoach returns. But he should get a lot more opportunities this year in a new-look Suns midfield and the benefits of an extra pre-season shouldn’t be underestimated.

ADAM CERRA (FREMANTLE) $184,800
Dominated when he played at TAC Cup level but injuries restricted him to just four games in each of the past two years. Based on that he is probably behind the other guys listed above.

HUNTER CLARK (ST KILDA) $175,800
The Saints’ top draft selection (pick 7) was a ball magnet at junior level, noted for his clearance and tackling work. He averaged 126 SuperCoach points in the TAC Cup but might find it hard to break into the Saints midfield early in the season.

NICK COFFIELD (ST KILDA) $171,300
The pre-season standout of the latest crop of Saints recruits can play anywhere but has been training with the midfield group. Averaged an even 100 points a game in the TAC Cup. You’re paying a lot so you’d need to be very confident he’ll play most of the first eight rounds.

JAMES WORPEL (HAWTHORN) $117,300
Hawthorn was rapt to grab the Geelong Falcons and Vic Country co-captain at pick 45 on draft night. An inside ball-winner with the body to play straight away. Found plenty of the ball and kicked two goals in the Hawks’ intraclub game last Friday night to boost his SuperCoach stocks.

BRANDON STARCEVICH (BRISBANE) $126,300
His junior coach in the WA Colts described him as “an animal around the contest” which makes us take notice. The nephew of Craig Starcevich transformed from a forward to an inside midfielder in his final under-18 season and looks like he’s been playing senior footy for years (think Jack Graham). Contested bull is every chance to be blooded early.
Can Kobe Mutch break into Essendon’s best 22?
Carlton’s top draft pick Paddy Dow should get plenty of senior opportunities.

KOBE MUTCH (ESSENDON) $123,900
Put up some big SuperCoach numbers in the TAC Cup in 2016, averaging 132 points a game — and 142 in the under-18 championships. But he spent his first year at the Bombers in the VFL, playing 18 matches. A chance to break through this year — monitor his pre-season form.

HAMISH BRAYSHAW (WEST COAST) $117,300
One of the fairytale stories of draft night, the brother of Melbourne’s Angus and Fremantle’s Andrew landed at the Eagles with pick 68 after being passed over in last year’s draft. Averaged 131 SuperCoach points in the TAC Cup last year and will start the season aged 20 so he should be a bit ahead of other newbies.

LACHLAN FOGERTY (GEELONG) $117,300
Geelong identified the need for a pressure forward and got one in the Western Jets tackling machine. That’s become a cliche but his average of 9.7 tackles a game was nearly two more than anyone else in the competition. Also averaged 145 SuperCoach points and he was nominated by skipper Joel Selwood as an early season bolter. Ticks a lot of boxes.

RUCKS
TIM ENGLISH (WESTERN BULLDOGS) $134,700
Now in his second season after breaking into the senior line-up for two games in his debut year — scoring 37 and 33 with two hit-outs to advantage from 68 attempts. Beanpole will probably spend this year developing in the VFL so you’re better off picking someone cheaper.

DARCY CAMERON (SYDNEY) $123,900
A mature age recruit (tick) two years ago, Cameron sat on a lot of benches all last year without getting a chance at senior level. He could be worth a punt again now Sydney’s ruck stocks are down one after Kurt Tippett’s retirement, leaving him and Callum Sinclair as the only backups to Sam Naismith.
Western Bulldogs big man Tim English. Picture: Mark Wilson

MATTHEW FLYNN (GWS) $123,900 RUCK/FWD
Has dual-position eligibility and could be a chance to play if both Rory Lobb and Dawson Simpson go down. So probably not likely.

SAM HAYES (PORT ADELAIDE) $117,300 RUCK/FWD
The highest ranked ruckman in the TAC Cup (116 average) slid to pick 47 on draft night. His dual-position status makes him a good candidate for a bench spot, but don’t expect to see him at senior level this year — unless Paddy Ryder gets injured.

LUKE LAVENDER (ESSENDON) $102,400
Former cricketer is miles away from an AFL debut but if you’re third ruck is never going to play anyway, you may as well go for the cheapest option available.

TONY OLANGO (WEST COAST) $102,400
See above but a more strategic choice given the Eagles play a lot of Sunday games so he offers more “floating doughnut” opportunities if you want to try the vice-captain or emergency loopholes.

FORWARDS

CAM RAYNER (BRISBANE) $202,800 FWD/MID
The Lions’ No. 1 draft pick was compared to Dustin Martin at junior level for his explosive power and scoreboard impact. Likely to start his career as a forward where points will be harder to accumulate which makes it hard to justify spending more than $200k.

JAIDYN STEPHENSON (COLLINGWOOD) $180,300 FWD/MID
The Magpies are confident a heart problem won’t stop Stephenson picking up from where he left off in the second half of last year, when he averaged 132 SuperCoach points in the TAC Cup. Highlighted his talent with 22 disposals and five goals in the under-18 all-star game on Grand Final day. High price tag but could be worth it.

AIDEN BONAR (GWS) $157,700 FWD/MID
A real project player who was rated the best 15-year-old in the country two years ago but has barely played since due to two serious knee injuries. Suspect the Giants will give him plenty of time to develop at lower levels.

JACK HIGGINS (RICHMOND) $130,800 FWD/MID
Higgins’ junior numbers make for salivating reading. He broke Tom Rockliff’s record by averaging 145 SuperCoach points in 33 games covered by Champion Data, dominated in the midfield and up forward, is known for his professionalism and already has bigger quads than many AFL players. The only issue is forcing his way into the Tigers’ small forward set up, but Daniel Rioli’s foot injury creates an opening. He’s also DPP. Jump on!

CHARLIE SPARGO (MELBOURNE) $117,300 FWD/MID
Injuries have curtailed last year’s No. 29 draft pick for a couple of years but at under-16 level he averaged 29 disposals, 2.5 goals and 219 SuperCoach points a game. So we’ll be keeping a very close eye on him!

JORDAN DAWSON (SYDNEY) $123,900
Posted huge numbers in the NEAFL last year, breaking the 40-disposal mark twice and finishing sixth on the league goalkicking table. John Longmire hasn’t been afraid to throw kids into the deep end, hopefully Dawson is next in the queue.

DANIEL VENABLES (WEST COAST) $123,900
The Eagles’ top pick in the 2016 draft never got a clear run at it last year due to foot injuries. Showed a bit across half-forward in the WAFL — West Coast obviously like him a lot, offering him a two-year contract extension. Has never been a big possession-winner but can have an impact close to goal. Monitor his pre-season.

 

[THCLT]

Presto - Loving your work on posting these articles. I'm sure that I represent many on here when I say that it's much appreciated and we're much more learned SC'ers for your input.

 

[Presto]

Presto - Loving your work on posting these articles. I'm sure that I represent many on here when I say that it's much appreciated and we're much more learned SC'ers for your input.

Thanks, I really appreciate your comments

 

[Bomber18]

Hard to find the defensive rookies at the moment. Doedee seems to be the most likely but the others all appear outside of the best 22 rnd 1 teams. Not even a decent donut you could sit at D8.
My question if it looks bad, do you take an expensive cash cow like Bonner, Howard, Morrison or do you take an almost keeper like McGrath, Salem, Sicily?

Aliir...

Not sure on his scoring potential, but could play in R1 with a decent JLT. Averaged 67 in his debut year. Wasn't very good last year but think he had an interrupted preseason.

Not mentioned at all in the articles though so perhaps one to keep quiet

 

[Drew]

surely we can get 4 playing ones out of :-

Coffield, Hibberd, Naughton, O'Shea, O'Brien, R Smith, Buckley, J smith, Richards, Murphy

any number of ones priced at $ 123,900 eg Cumming, Doedee, Finlayson, Morgan, Murray, Watson + McPherson, Payne & Mirra

I have been toying with 5/6 rookie backs and loading up my forward line

I’m with you Herbie, should be able to find 3 starting premiums (eg Laird) then Sicily and two top starting rookies (Doedee, O’Shea) then two more gap fillers for the bench where a couple of cheap speculative options always pop up.