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SuperCoach Investor: The best trade targets for Round 10
Daniel Begala, Herald Sun
May 23, 2018 4:00pm
Subscriber only
THE rollercoaster that is the SuperCoach Stock Exchange was in full-flight over the weekend with some stocks — Jack Macrae (177), Jake Lloyd (173) and Jack Darling (181) — significantly outperforming the market.
They are understandably the most in-demand stocks as they power a rise up the rankings for the smart investors who bought in when they presented maximum value.
SCORING SECRETS:*THE REAL SWING OF SUPERCOACH YEO-YO
ROOKIE BIBLE:*WHO TO TRADE, WHO TO KEEP
The byes are fast-approaching, our penny stocks are ripe for the picking and it’s time for investors to reap the spoils of their labour with some much-needed upgrade activity.
Our resident expert, Daniel Begala, casts his mind across the state-of-play of the SuperCoach marketplace and addresses all of the key conundrums facing investors.
BEGALA’S BARGAIN BASEMENT
As the great Franco Cozzo once said, it’s a “Grand Sale, Grand Sale, Grand Sale!” for blue chip investments at the SuperCoach Stock Exchange.
A number of top-tier performers are available for a fraction of their starting costs.
The pick of the bunch is Sydney’s Jake Lloyd ($512K, Break-even 6) who has collected 77 disposals across the past fortnight of football with scores of 173 and 130 the reward.
His value jumped $45K last week but will keep going up and he’s a certainty to be among the top six defenders at season’s end, so if your portfolio is lacking top-level defensive exposure, it’s time to gear up and acquire the Swans’ quarterback as a matter of urgency.
Jake Lloyd is in rare form for Sydney. Picture: Gregg Porteous
There’s also extreme arbitrage available in the midfield with headline stocks including Tom Rockliff ($375K, BE 26), Dayne Zorko ($517K, BE 70) and Patrick Dangerfield ($602K, BE 112) catching the eye of investment community.
Rockliff is back to the form of old with two strong performances (98 and 102) that have provided investors with some much-needed confidence before pulling the trigger.
He’s an extremely undervalued stock, capable of elite scoring and could be acquired at the expense of Tim Kelly ($429K, BE 120) in Round 11 with the added benefit of an expected capital gain ($30-40K).
I plan to fill my midfield quota this week with the timely acquisition of Patrick Dangerfield (at M8), but will strongly consider Rockliff at M9 for the purposes of seamlessly navigating the treachery of the byes (Rounds 12-14).
A ONE-WEEK JACK BILLINGS SOLUTION
As a holder of the once prized Billings stock, it brings extreme sadness to witness the demise of the St Kilda talent.
Touted as a must-have investment during the pre-season, he’s scraped together a month of football that has included dividends of 47, 57, 54 and, most recently, 57 points (v Collingwood).
We would not tolerate those performances from a rookie selection, let alone a player of Billings’ ability (and starting price tag).
Jack Billings at St Kilda training. Picture: Michael Klein
The demise is set to continue this week with Billings facing a break-even of 87 and a date with the reigning premiers, who will be hellbent on atoning for their sins in the west.
With Port Adelaide and Gold Coast facing a bye this week, it’s essential that you leverage the likes of Robbie Gray (FWD) and Nick Holman (MID) to loophole Billings’ score on Saturday afternoon.
The SuperCoach Investor is hopeful that relegation to the bench alongside first-year rookies will inspire Billings to kick-himself and the Saints into gear.
If he fails to score in excess of 70 points, it’s time to throw caution to the wind and offer the opportunity to the likes of Charlie Spargo or Matt Guelfi who player later in the round.
Daniel Begala, Herald Sun
May 23, 2018 4:00pm
Subscriber only
THE rollercoaster that is the SuperCoach Stock Exchange was in full-flight over the weekend with some stocks — Jack Macrae (177), Jake Lloyd (173) and Jack Darling (181) — significantly outperforming the market.
They are understandably the most in-demand stocks as they power a rise up the rankings for the smart investors who bought in when they presented maximum value.
SCORING SECRETS:*THE REAL SWING OF SUPERCOACH YEO-YO
ROOKIE BIBLE:*WHO TO TRADE, WHO TO KEEP
The byes are fast-approaching, our penny stocks are ripe for the picking and it’s time for investors to reap the spoils of their labour with some much-needed upgrade activity.
Our resident expert, Daniel Begala, casts his mind across the state-of-play of the SuperCoach marketplace and addresses all of the key conundrums facing investors.
BEGALA’S BARGAIN BASEMENT
As the great Franco Cozzo once said, it’s a “Grand Sale, Grand Sale, Grand Sale!” for blue chip investments at the SuperCoach Stock Exchange.
A number of top-tier performers are available for a fraction of their starting costs.
The pick of the bunch is Sydney’s Jake Lloyd ($512K, Break-even 6) who has collected 77 disposals across the past fortnight of football with scores of 173 and 130 the reward.
His value jumped $45K last week but will keep going up and he’s a certainty to be among the top six defenders at season’s end, so if your portfolio is lacking top-level defensive exposure, it’s time to gear up and acquire the Swans’ quarterback as a matter of urgency.
Jake Lloyd is in rare form for Sydney. Picture: Gregg Porteous
There’s also extreme arbitrage available in the midfield with headline stocks including Tom Rockliff ($375K, BE 26), Dayne Zorko ($517K, BE 70) and Patrick Dangerfield ($602K, BE 112) catching the eye of investment community.
Rockliff is back to the form of old with two strong performances (98 and 102) that have provided investors with some much-needed confidence before pulling the trigger.
He’s an extremely undervalued stock, capable of elite scoring and could be acquired at the expense of Tim Kelly ($429K, BE 120) in Round 11 with the added benefit of an expected capital gain ($30-40K).
I plan to fill my midfield quota this week with the timely acquisition of Patrick Dangerfield (at M8), but will strongly consider Rockliff at M9 for the purposes of seamlessly navigating the treachery of the byes (Rounds 12-14).
A ONE-WEEK JACK BILLINGS SOLUTION
As a holder of the once prized Billings stock, it brings extreme sadness to witness the demise of the St Kilda talent.
Touted as a must-have investment during the pre-season, he’s scraped together a month of football that has included dividends of 47, 57, 54 and, most recently, 57 points (v Collingwood).
We would not tolerate those performances from a rookie selection, let alone a player of Billings’ ability (and starting price tag).
Jack Billings at St Kilda training. Picture: Michael Klein
The demise is set to continue this week with Billings facing a break-even of 87 and a date with the reigning premiers, who will be hellbent on atoning for their sins in the west.
With Port Adelaide and Gold Coast facing a bye this week, it’s essential that you leverage the likes of Robbie Gray (FWD) and Nick Holman (MID) to loophole Billings’ score on Saturday afternoon.
The SuperCoach Investor is hopeful that relegation to the bench alongside first-year rookies will inspire Billings to kick-himself and the Saints into gear.
If he fails to score in excess of 70 points, it’s time to throw caution to the wind and offer the opportunity to the likes of Charlie Spargo or Matt Guelfi who player later in the round.
SuperCoach number crunch: Key scores of Round 9 explained
Al Paton, Herald Sun
May 23, 2018 2:00pm
ELLIOT Yeo has earned the nickname ‘Yeo-Yeo’ for his up and down*SuperCoach*scores, but he took things to a whole new level against Richmond.
The Eagles star appeared done for the day (and possibly longer) after wrenching his knee in the first quarter, but he finished as one of the main reasons for West Coast’s stunning win.
Meanwhile, teammate Jack Darling could have scored even more than his massive 181 if not for a quirk in the SuperCoach scoring system.
SUPERCOACH Q & A:*REPLAY THE ERADICATOR’S LIVE CHAT
ROOKIE BIBLE:*WHO TO HOLD, WHO TO TRADE
Scroll down to find out why as Champion Data lifts the lid on the secrets behind the most eyebrow-raising SuperCoach numbers in Round 9 — and to find out who has scored the most points in a single quarter this year.
YEO’S MIRACULOUS RETURN
It was an emotional rollercoaster for the almost 50,000 SuperCoach players with Yeo in their side on the weekend, including 10,000 who traded him in last week.
Yeo left the field in the first quarter with an injury scare and returned late in the second term with his knee heavily strapped. He promptly kicked the ball out on the full, costing himself 4.3 points and cutting his score to just 14 at the 18-minute mark of the second term.
Elliot Yeo*#supercoachpic.twitter.com/UZhQTSzZIX
— luke (@TheWordOfLuke85)*May 20, 2018
What followed thereafter will always be remembered as the “great comeback”. Yeo played a key role in the win over Richmond, adding 99 points to his score after that negative act in the second term, with 46 points coming directly from contested possessions.
Elliot Yeo had a remarkable game against Richmond.DARLING’S BANANA BLOOPER
As we saw with*Carlton youngster Paddy Dow earlier in the season, players don’t earn points if a shot at goal accidentally goes to a teammate. Jack Darling miscued a banana shot in the second term which found its way to Jack Redden at the top of the goalsquare. Darling was awarded an ineffective kick for his shot at goal and subsequently missed out on the bonus points for a score assist.
JUNK TIME GOALS
We’ve seen a number of examples this year of points being multiplied late in close games,*most recently a week agowhen Taylor Walker (11.2 points), Mitch McGovern (12.2 points) and matchwinner Steven Motlop (12.4 points) were rewarded for crucial goals in the Showdown. But when the match is a blowout the reverse applies. Melbourne led Carlton by 66 points at three-quarter time on Sunday then kicked seven goals to none in the final term when the result was well and truly decided. Each of these goals was worth 4.3 points for a combined tally of 30 points.
SICILY’S BIG PLAY
James Sicily’s long goal at the eight-minute mark of the second term against Brisbane was his most productive act of the match, earning him eight points. In fact, if you add the intercept mark off the opposition and the long kick into the equation, it was a 15-point play.
ALL NOT LOST FOR BILLINGS?
It has been slim pickings for SuperCoach players with Jack Billings in their side, which made his only goal against Collingwood worth celebrating even more. He won the hardball and kicked truly with his non-preferred side (right foot) — earning 7.7 points for his goal. The play itself was worth 15.7 points.
MISSED/BROKEN TACKLES
Bad news for Dustin Martin owners. Players aren’t awarded any SuperCoach points for breaking a tackle. Conversely, players don’t lose any SuperCoach points for any missed tackles.
Ben Brown has had some monster quarters this year.QUARTER MASTER
Ben Brown’s 93-point third quarter against GWS on Saturday was the highest score in a single quarter for the season. Amazingly, it broke Brown’s own record after he scored 92 points in the first quarter against Carlton in Round 4 — also at Blundstone Arena (think about making him captain when North Melbourne plays West Coast there in Round 19).
Here are the top scores for each quarter so far in 2018:
FIRST QUARTER
92 — Ben Brown v Carlton, R4
87 — Tom Lynch v Carlton, R2
77 — Tom Hawkins v GWS Giants, R7
75 — Jack Ziebell v Hawthorn, R5
74 — Ben Brown v Hawthorn, R5
SECOND QUARTER
77 — Elliot Yeo v Gold Coast, R4
74 — James Harmes v Gold Coast, R8
70 — Jamie Cripps v Gold Coast, R4
70 — Tom Mitchell v Collingwood, R1
68 — Touk Miller v Port Adelaide, R9
THIRD QUARTER
93 — Ben Brown v GWS Giants, R9
81 — Robbie Gray v Adelaide, R8
81 — Max Gawn v Essendon, R6
78 — Jack Macrae v Gold Coast, R7
71 — Brodie Grundy v Geelong, R8
LAST QUARTER
78 — Jeff Garlett v Brisbane Lions, R2
67 — Seb Ross v GWS Giants, R5
65 — Dayne Zorko v Collingwood, R7
64 — Mason Wood v Sydney, R7
64 — Josh P Kennedy v North Melbourne, R7
Al Paton, Herald Sun
May 23, 2018 2:00pm
ELLIOT Yeo has earned the nickname ‘Yeo-Yeo’ for his up and down*SuperCoach*scores, but he took things to a whole new level against Richmond.
The Eagles star appeared done for the day (and possibly longer) after wrenching his knee in the first quarter, but he finished as one of the main reasons for West Coast’s stunning win.
Meanwhile, teammate Jack Darling could have scored even more than his massive 181 if not for a quirk in the SuperCoach scoring system.
SUPERCOACH Q & A:*REPLAY THE ERADICATOR’S LIVE CHAT
ROOKIE BIBLE:*WHO TO HOLD, WHO TO TRADE
Scroll down to find out why as Champion Data lifts the lid on the secrets behind the most eyebrow-raising SuperCoach numbers in Round 9 — and to find out who has scored the most points in a single quarter this year.
YEO’S MIRACULOUS RETURN
It was an emotional rollercoaster for the almost 50,000 SuperCoach players with Yeo in their side on the weekend, including 10,000 who traded him in last week.
Yeo left the field in the first quarter with an injury scare and returned late in the second term with his knee heavily strapped. He promptly kicked the ball out on the full, costing himself 4.3 points and cutting his score to just 14 at the 18-minute mark of the second term.
Elliot Yeo*#supercoachpic.twitter.com/UZhQTSzZIX
— luke (@TheWordOfLuke85)*May 20, 2018
What followed thereafter will always be remembered as the “great comeback”. Yeo played a key role in the win over Richmond, adding 99 points to his score after that negative act in the second term, with 46 points coming directly from contested possessions.
Elliot Yeo had a remarkable game against Richmond.DARLING’S BANANA BLOOPER
As we saw with*Carlton youngster Paddy Dow earlier in the season, players don’t earn points if a shot at goal accidentally goes to a teammate. Jack Darling miscued a banana shot in the second term which found its way to Jack Redden at the top of the goalsquare. Darling was awarded an ineffective kick for his shot at goal and subsequently missed out on the bonus points for a score assist.
JUNK TIME GOALS
We’ve seen a number of examples this year of points being multiplied late in close games,*most recently a week agowhen Taylor Walker (11.2 points), Mitch McGovern (12.2 points) and matchwinner Steven Motlop (12.4 points) were rewarded for crucial goals in the Showdown. But when the match is a blowout the reverse applies. Melbourne led Carlton by 66 points at three-quarter time on Sunday then kicked seven goals to none in the final term when the result was well and truly decided. Each of these goals was worth 4.3 points for a combined tally of 30 points.
SICILY’S BIG PLAY
James Sicily’s long goal at the eight-minute mark of the second term against Brisbane was his most productive act of the match, earning him eight points. In fact, if you add the intercept mark off the opposition and the long kick into the equation, it was a 15-point play.
ALL NOT LOST FOR BILLINGS?
It has been slim pickings for SuperCoach players with Jack Billings in their side, which made his only goal against Collingwood worth celebrating even more. He won the hardball and kicked truly with his non-preferred side (right foot) — earning 7.7 points for his goal. The play itself was worth 15.7 points.
MISSED/BROKEN TACKLES
Bad news for Dustin Martin owners. Players aren’t awarded any SuperCoach points for breaking a tackle. Conversely, players don’t lose any SuperCoach points for any missed tackles.
Ben Brown has had some monster quarters this year.QUARTER MASTER
Ben Brown’s 93-point third quarter against GWS on Saturday was the highest score in a single quarter for the season. Amazingly, it broke Brown’s own record after he scored 92 points in the first quarter against Carlton in Round 4 — also at Blundstone Arena (think about making him captain when North Melbourne plays West Coast there in Round 19).
Here are the top scores for each quarter so far in 2018:
FIRST QUARTER
92 — Ben Brown v Carlton, R4
87 — Tom Lynch v Carlton, R2
77 — Tom Hawkins v GWS Giants, R7
75 — Jack Ziebell v Hawthorn, R5
74 — Ben Brown v Hawthorn, R5
SECOND QUARTER
77 — Elliot Yeo v Gold Coast, R4
74 — James Harmes v Gold Coast, R8
70 — Jamie Cripps v Gold Coast, R4
70 — Tom Mitchell v Collingwood, R1
68 — Touk Miller v Port Adelaide, R9
THIRD QUARTER
93 — Ben Brown v GWS Giants, R9
81 — Robbie Gray v Adelaide, R8
81 — Max Gawn v Essendon, R6
78 — Jack Macrae v Gold Coast, R7
71 — Brodie Grundy v Geelong, R8
LAST QUARTER
78 — Jeff Garlett v Brisbane Lions, R2
67 — Seb Ross v GWS Giants, R5
65 — Dayne Zorko v Collingwood, R7
64 — Mason Wood v Sydney, R7
64 — Josh P Kennedy v North Melbourne, R7
Champion Data SuperCoach formguide: Trade and rookie tips for Round 10
Champion Data, Herald Sun
an hour ago
THE biggest dilemma facing SuperCoaches this round is whether to hold or trade the most selected midfielder in the competition — Tim Kelly.
He wasn’t the only Cat who struggled against Essendon on the weekend, finishing with a season-low 16 disposals, five contested possessions and one clearance. His 48 points were also 25 fewer than in any other match for the year, suffering his first price drop, albeit just $3300. Kelly has already made a healthy profit of $311,900 so he has more than fulfilled his role as a cash cow.
Fast-forward to Round 10 and Kelly now has a break-even score of 120 points, a tally he hasn’t reached all season. In saying that, he faces a Carlton side that concede the second-most points to midfielders. Also in Kelly’s favour is that he returns to GMHBA Stadium, where he has scored 89, 106 and 115 points from his three games.
A move to teammate Patrick Dangerfield is a tempting one and will cost SuperCoaches $172,600 to jump ship.
Dustin Martin is an alternative to Dangerfield despite boasting a break-even score of 131 points. Martin has dropped to just $492,700 after notching his first ton last round (103 points vs. West Coast) since Round 4.
St Kilda, his opponent this week, has conceded the third-most points to midfielders behind Carlton and Gold Coast. Martin dominated against the Saints when he last played them in 2017, finishing with 36 disposals, 14 contested possessions, two goals and 146 points.
There isn’t a lot to get excited about with this round’s “bubble boys”, with the exception of Ed Phillips that is. He has to be the No. 1 trade-in target even after scoring 49 points last round against Collingwood.
Phillips still managed to win 19 disposals, but it was his errant kicking that had an adverse effect on his score, recording five ineffective kicks and one kick clanger.
With the Giants expected to swing the axe after a disappointing loss to North Melbourne, Isaac Cumming is on the chopping block after a game-low 16 points from 53 per cent game time. In fact, he had just two disposals and four points to his name at halftime. Even if he manages to keep his place in the side, Cumming may not be the ideal trade-in option.
With a lack of genuine trade options again this week, SuperCoaches have to go early on rookies, with Jordan Ridley, Jacob Heron, Bailey Rice and Tim Smith all showing something in their first outings for the season last round.
Ridley is the pick of the quartet, finishing with 25 disposals and 76 points from 79 per cent game time against Geelong. He found plenty of the ball on the outside and had 20 uncontested possessions, the third-most of any Bomber behind Brendon Goddard and David Zaharakis.
Bailey Rice impressed in his AFL debut.
Heron has the bye in Round 10, which leaves Rice as the other defensive option. He had 17 disposals against Collingwood and hit the target with 83 per cent of his kicks, the equal second-best percentage of any Saint. He also won a team-high eight intercept possessions to cap off a solid debut.
The mature-age Smith is an option in the forward line, but his job security isn’t ideal. With Melbourne contending, one bad game could see him leave the team quicker than he came in. But he didn’t look out of place against Carlton, finishing with 18 disposals, two contested marks and six tackles.
Collingwood vs. Western Bulldogs
Scott Pendlebury has an outstanding record against the Western Bulldogs since 2012, scoring at least 130 points in four of six matches including 146 last season. Marcus Bontempelli scored 120 points when these sides last met in Round 1 last year.
Richmond vs. St Kilda
Trent Cotchin had dominated against bottom 10 opposition this season, averaging 112 points — ranked No. 1 at Richmond. Luke Dunstan has been St Kilda’s topscorer against top eight opponents with an average of 110 points.
Brisbane Lions vs. Sydney Swans
Stefan Martin ranks fourth in the competition for points scored among ruckmen with an average of 102 points. Callum Sinclair has taken the mantle of No. 1 ruck at the Swans and ranks third for points scored.
Geelong Cats vs. Carlton
Gary Ablett had a shocker last round against the Bombers, managing just 17 disposals, one clearance and 55 points. Marc Murphy returned from injury and scored 94 points in the heavy defeat to Melbourne.
GWS Giants vs. Essendon
A score of 107 points last round against North Melbourne wasn’t enough to stop Dylan Shiel from dropping by a further $7600 in value. Dyson Heppell led the Bombers’ charge against the Cats with 113 points, his best score since Round 1.
Hawthorn vs. West Coast
Jack Gunston had 16 disposals, two score assists, two goals and 96 points when the Hawks last played at Etihad Stadium in Round 5. Jack Darling booted four goals straight from 16 disposals in his last appearance at Etihad Stadium in Round 2.
Melbourne vs. Adelaide Crows
Tom McDonald is averaging 16 disposals, three goals and a career-high 107 points this season. Sam Jacobs has dropped off significantly, averaging just 13 disposals and 78 points, his fewest since 2010.
Fremantle vs. North Melbourne
Luke Ryan ranks seventh in the competition for points scored among permanent defenders with an average of 94 points. Scott D. Thompson has bounced back to average 85 points, his most since 2013.
Champion Data, Herald Sun
an hour ago
THE biggest dilemma facing SuperCoaches this round is whether to hold or trade the most selected midfielder in the competition — Tim Kelly.
He wasn’t the only Cat who struggled against Essendon on the weekend, finishing with a season-low 16 disposals, five contested possessions and one clearance. His 48 points were also 25 fewer than in any other match for the year, suffering his first price drop, albeit just $3300. Kelly has already made a healthy profit of $311,900 so he has more than fulfilled his role as a cash cow.
Fast-forward to Round 10 and Kelly now has a break-even score of 120 points, a tally he hasn’t reached all season. In saying that, he faces a Carlton side that concede the second-most points to midfielders. Also in Kelly’s favour is that he returns to GMHBA Stadium, where he has scored 89, 106 and 115 points from his three games.
A move to teammate Patrick Dangerfield is a tempting one and will cost SuperCoaches $172,600 to jump ship.
Dustin Martin is an alternative to Dangerfield despite boasting a break-even score of 131 points. Martin has dropped to just $492,700 after notching his first ton last round (103 points vs. West Coast) since Round 4.
St Kilda, his opponent this week, has conceded the third-most points to midfielders behind Carlton and Gold Coast. Martin dominated against the Saints when he last played them in 2017, finishing with 36 disposals, 14 contested possessions, two goals and 146 points.
There isn’t a lot to get excited about with this round’s “bubble boys”, with the exception of Ed Phillips that is. He has to be the No. 1 trade-in target even after scoring 49 points last round against Collingwood.
Phillips still managed to win 19 disposals, but it was his errant kicking that had an adverse effect on his score, recording five ineffective kicks and one kick clanger.
With the Giants expected to swing the axe after a disappointing loss to North Melbourne, Isaac Cumming is on the chopping block after a game-low 16 points from 53 per cent game time. In fact, he had just two disposals and four points to his name at halftime. Even if he manages to keep his place in the side, Cumming may not be the ideal trade-in option.
With a lack of genuine trade options again this week, SuperCoaches have to go early on rookies, with Jordan Ridley, Jacob Heron, Bailey Rice and Tim Smith all showing something in their first outings for the season last round.
Ridley is the pick of the quartet, finishing with 25 disposals and 76 points from 79 per cent game time against Geelong. He found plenty of the ball on the outside and had 20 uncontested possessions, the third-most of any Bomber behind Brendon Goddard and David Zaharakis.
Bailey Rice impressed in his AFL debut.
Heron has the bye in Round 10, which leaves Rice as the other defensive option. He had 17 disposals against Collingwood and hit the target with 83 per cent of his kicks, the equal second-best percentage of any Saint. He also won a team-high eight intercept possessions to cap off a solid debut.
The mature-age Smith is an option in the forward line, but his job security isn’t ideal. With Melbourne contending, one bad game could see him leave the team quicker than he came in. But he didn’t look out of place against Carlton, finishing with 18 disposals, two contested marks and six tackles.
Collingwood vs. Western Bulldogs
Scott Pendlebury has an outstanding record against the Western Bulldogs since 2012, scoring at least 130 points in four of six matches including 146 last season. Marcus Bontempelli scored 120 points when these sides last met in Round 1 last year.
Richmond vs. St Kilda
Trent Cotchin had dominated against bottom 10 opposition this season, averaging 112 points — ranked No. 1 at Richmond. Luke Dunstan has been St Kilda’s topscorer against top eight opponents with an average of 110 points.
Brisbane Lions vs. Sydney Swans
Stefan Martin ranks fourth in the competition for points scored among ruckmen with an average of 102 points. Callum Sinclair has taken the mantle of No. 1 ruck at the Swans and ranks third for points scored.
Geelong Cats vs. Carlton
Gary Ablett had a shocker last round against the Bombers, managing just 17 disposals, one clearance and 55 points. Marc Murphy returned from injury and scored 94 points in the heavy defeat to Melbourne.
GWS Giants vs. Essendon
A score of 107 points last round against North Melbourne wasn’t enough to stop Dylan Shiel from dropping by a further $7600 in value. Dyson Heppell led the Bombers’ charge against the Cats with 113 points, his best score since Round 1.
Hawthorn vs. West Coast
Jack Gunston had 16 disposals, two score assists, two goals and 96 points when the Hawks last played at Etihad Stadium in Round 5. Jack Darling booted four goals straight from 16 disposals in his last appearance at Etihad Stadium in Round 2.
Melbourne vs. Adelaide Crows
Tom McDonald is averaging 16 disposals, three goals and a career-high 107 points this season. Sam Jacobs has dropped off significantly, averaging just 13 disposals and 78 points, his fewest since 2010.
Fremantle vs. North Melbourne
Luke Ryan ranks seventh in the competition for points scored among permanent defenders with an average of 94 points. Scott D. Thompson has bounced back to average 85 points, his most since 2013.
How to survive the byes with smart SuperCoach trades
Dan Batten, Herald Sun
May 24, 2018 7:31pm
Subscriber only
THE byes are arguably the most pivotal time of the SuperCoach season.
Four rounds — starting this weekend — have the potential to absolutely derail our season. To ruin all our hard work; all the blood, sweat and tears gone to waste.
Not this year. A plan of attack is a necessary course of action to combat the dreaded byes, unless you want to start pre-season for SuperCoach 2019 in June.
Most players will get through this weekend with minimum damage. But wait until Round 13 and 14, when things really get ugly.
In Round 13, the likes of Max Gawn, Clayton Oliver, Devon Smith, Stephen Coniglio, Jeremy Howe and Stefan Martin will be unavailable for selection.
And in Round 14, it gets worse. SuperCoach powerhouses Patrick Dangerfield, Dustin Martin, Rory Laird and all Isaac Heeney have the week off. Ouch.
We must do our due diligence to navigate through the treacherous month, especially those vying for overall SuperCoach ranking.
THE BYES
Round 11: Gold Coast, Port Adelaide
Round 12: Carlton, Hawthorn, West Coast, Western Bulldogs
Round 13: Brisbane, Collingwood, Essendon, GWS, Melbourne, North Melbourne
Round 14: Adelaide, Fremantle, Geelong, Richmond, St Kilda, Sydney
With adversity comes opportunity. Many will struggle to field 18 players in the latter two weeks, giving astute SuperCoaches the chance to rise above the rest.
We have three trades per week from Round 12-14, so for those with trades in the bank, it is time to get busy.
Here are some tips and options to get you through the byes
1. Trade in players who have already had their bye
It sounds simple, but you would be surprised how many SuperCoaches don’t factor this in during the bye rounds.
Trading in players following their bye will give us as many players on field as possible for
the following bye rounds, particularly that nightmare final fortnight.
Unfortunately, we aren’t spoiled for choice in the early weeks, with players from Port Adelaide and Gold Coast (Round 10) and Hawthorn, Western Bulldogs, Carlton and West Coast (Round 12) being the viable options.
You could even afford to trade Round 12 bye players in this week if you are looking at fielding over 20 players that week.
POST-ROUND 10 OPTIONS
Robbie Gray | FWD | $541,900 | Avg: 110 | BE: 138
Gray’s price is set to plummet the next time he steps on the park, so it’s worth waiting until Round 12 to trade in the Power star.
And if he scores poorly spending extended minutes forward like last week, a judgment call may have to be made.
Robbie Gray (left) with Port Adelaide teammate Tom Jonas — who has become a surprise SuperCoach star himself this season.
Justin Westhoff | FWD-MID | $524,000 | Avg: 107.1 | BE: 111
Despite concerns about Port’s Mr Fixit having a reduced role when Paddy Ryder returned from injury, ‘The Hoff’ has continued to score well, averaging 95.7 SuperCoach points from his past three.
Tom Rockliff | MID | $374,900 | Avg: 62.5 | BE: 26
For SuperCoaches with cojones. Appears to be back to full fitness, averaging 28.5 disposals and 100 points in the last fortnight. Ridiculously cheap — a possible downgrade option from Tim Kelly.
POST-ROUND 12 TRADE IN OPTIONS
Elliot Yeo | DEF | $538,500 | Avg: 104 | BE: 99
If you discount his one stinker, Yeo is going at 113.6 points with a low score of 94. Looking like finishing as the No. 1 defender.
Marcus Bontempelli | MID | $583,700 | Avg: 107.8 | BE: 101
Flying under the radar with Jack Macrae’s strong form. Has fallen under the ton just twice and has surpassed 120 points in his past three matches.
Andrew Gaff | MID | $543,000 | Avg: 108.3 | BE: 112
His form cannot be ignored any longer. All nine of his scores have been 92-125. Tremendous consistency for someone in just 2 per cent of teams.
Kade Simpson | DEF | $487,400 | Avg: 102.8 | BE: 119
May not be as reliable as previous years, but he will be among the best defenders at year’s end. Could be picked up for under $480,000 after his bye.
James Sicily | DEF/FWD | $537,500 | Avg: 107.3 | BE: 138
A disappointing total on the weekend should see Sicily’s price fall over the next fortnight. Almost a must-have with his dual-position status.
Jeremy McGovern | DEF | $451,000 | Avg: 89 | BE: 62
Amassed a formidable score of 123 on the weekend, his second ton for the season. Averaged 93 points after his bye in 2017.
Nic Naitanui | RUCK | $469,500 | Avg: 98 | BE: 85
Here is your man if you are looking for a ruck option. His limited game time is the only thing holding him back from going bananas, and that should ramp up as the season goes on.
Jack Gunston | FWD | $468,300 | Avg: 94.8 | BE: 79
Gunston has scored back-to-back tons in what has been a very solid season so far. Doesn’t need a massive scoreboard impact to score well, either. Safe pick.
HOLDING ON TO BYE-FRIENDLY ROOKIES
Just as we trade in players who have the early byes, we should look to keep bye friendly cash cows — even if it means losing some cash.
It makes the decision easier for the 72,070 (37 per cent) of teams who still have Nick Holman, who has a meagre break-even of 13 after churning out 122 SuperCoach points on the weekend.
David Mirra is another rookie who should continue to make us cash over the byes.
Tom Cole is the main example here, having appeared to cement a spot in the West Coast defence.
While his break-even is creeping up to his average, it is worth holding him for coverage through the byes.
GUNNING FOR LEAGUE WINS
Rank isn’t important for all players, with bragging rights in their league being their No. 1 priority. The advice is simple for those looking to get wins on the board in their SuperCoach leagues: look at your opposition.
For instance, if your opponent you are facing in Round 14 hasn’t checked their side since Round 1, you can afford to trade in players who have their bye in Round 14.
However, if you are playing a strong SuperCoach player in the byes who you are hungry to knock off, prioritise this bye round with your trading.
Just hope you aren’t dealt the raw end of the stick playing three strong coaches from Round 12-14.
RISK TAKERS
Some thrill seekers might consider trading out a premium the week before their bye, with the hope of trading them BACK in soon after.
SuperCoach folklore forbids us to trade a premium, but it has some merit dodging a zero if the player has a high break-even.
Take Robbie Gray this week for example, who has the post-China bye. His price has just about peaked at $541,900, with a mammoth 138 break-even to contend with after scoring just 67 points last weekend. Rather than copping the zero, trading him for soaring Eagle Jack Darling ($561,200, 33 BE) — the top SuperCoach scoring forward in the competition — would require less than $20,000.
Another two poor scores could see Gray fall below $500,000, making him a bargain upgrade around bye time.
It is a bold move that could come back to bite you, but considering Gray’s lack of midfield minutes last week, it could see you reap both financial and scoring benefits.
Not for me, though. I want to be able to sleep at night.
FAQS
How many players is a good amount to have playing each round?
This is hard to say, as an 18-man team loaded up with premiums can score as many as a 22-playing side full of rookies. There is no hard and fast rule, but 19 is a solid amount, allowing your lowest scoring player to fall out of your score.
Most sides will have a greater amount in Round 12 with fewer teams having the week off.
Don’t feel as though you have to play 18 each week, either. Often trading in a player just to avoid a zero may only add 40 points, and will be detrimental to your side down the track.
Stick to your structures, trades are gold.
How many trades should we have at the end of the byes?
This will vary from side to side but generally speaking, the ultimate goal is having 6-10 trades and a full premium side at Round 15. But, like many things in life, it is easier said than done.
CLOSING WORDS
For those who are already pulling their hair out: don’t fret, you are not alone.
All SuperCoaches are going through the same thing during this difficult time, so stay calm.
Best of luck, and happy trading!
Dan Batten, Herald Sun
May 24, 2018 7:31pm
Subscriber only
THE byes are arguably the most pivotal time of the SuperCoach season.
Four rounds — starting this weekend — have the potential to absolutely derail our season. To ruin all our hard work; all the blood, sweat and tears gone to waste.
Not this year. A plan of attack is a necessary course of action to combat the dreaded byes, unless you want to start pre-season for SuperCoach 2019 in June.
Most players will get through this weekend with minimum damage. But wait until Round 13 and 14, when things really get ugly.
In Round 13, the likes of Max Gawn, Clayton Oliver, Devon Smith, Stephen Coniglio, Jeremy Howe and Stefan Martin will be unavailable for selection.
And in Round 14, it gets worse. SuperCoach powerhouses Patrick Dangerfield, Dustin Martin, Rory Laird and all Isaac Heeney have the week off. Ouch.
We must do our due diligence to navigate through the treacherous month, especially those vying for overall SuperCoach ranking.
THE BYES
Round 11: Gold Coast, Port Adelaide
Round 12: Carlton, Hawthorn, West Coast, Western Bulldogs
Round 13: Brisbane, Collingwood, Essendon, GWS, Melbourne, North Melbourne
Round 14: Adelaide, Fremantle, Geelong, Richmond, St Kilda, Sydney
With adversity comes opportunity. Many will struggle to field 18 players in the latter two weeks, giving astute SuperCoaches the chance to rise above the rest.
We have three trades per week from Round 12-14, so for those with trades in the bank, it is time to get busy.
Here are some tips and options to get you through the byes
1. Trade in players who have already had their bye
It sounds simple, but you would be surprised how many SuperCoaches don’t factor this in during the bye rounds.
Trading in players following their bye will give us as many players on field as possible for
the following bye rounds, particularly that nightmare final fortnight.
Unfortunately, we aren’t spoiled for choice in the early weeks, with players from Port Adelaide and Gold Coast (Round 10) and Hawthorn, Western Bulldogs, Carlton and West Coast (Round 12) being the viable options.
You could even afford to trade Round 12 bye players in this week if you are looking at fielding over 20 players that week.
POST-ROUND 10 OPTIONS
Robbie Gray | FWD | $541,900 | Avg: 110 | BE: 138
Gray’s price is set to plummet the next time he steps on the park, so it’s worth waiting until Round 12 to trade in the Power star.
And if he scores poorly spending extended minutes forward like last week, a judgment call may have to be made.
Robbie Gray (left) with Port Adelaide teammate Tom Jonas — who has become a surprise SuperCoach star himself this season.
Justin Westhoff | FWD-MID | $524,000 | Avg: 107.1 | BE: 111
Despite concerns about Port’s Mr Fixit having a reduced role when Paddy Ryder returned from injury, ‘The Hoff’ has continued to score well, averaging 95.7 SuperCoach points from his past three.
Tom Rockliff | MID | $374,900 | Avg: 62.5 | BE: 26
For SuperCoaches with cojones. Appears to be back to full fitness, averaging 28.5 disposals and 100 points in the last fortnight. Ridiculously cheap — a possible downgrade option from Tim Kelly.
POST-ROUND 12 TRADE IN OPTIONS
Elliot Yeo | DEF | $538,500 | Avg: 104 | BE: 99
If you discount his one stinker, Yeo is going at 113.6 points with a low score of 94. Looking like finishing as the No. 1 defender.
Marcus Bontempelli | MID | $583,700 | Avg: 107.8 | BE: 101
Flying under the radar with Jack Macrae’s strong form. Has fallen under the ton just twice and has surpassed 120 points in his past three matches.
Andrew Gaff | MID | $543,000 | Avg: 108.3 | BE: 112
His form cannot be ignored any longer. All nine of his scores have been 92-125. Tremendous consistency for someone in just 2 per cent of teams.
Kade Simpson | DEF | $487,400 | Avg: 102.8 | BE: 119
May not be as reliable as previous years, but he will be among the best defenders at year’s end. Could be picked up for under $480,000 after his bye.
James Sicily | DEF/FWD | $537,500 | Avg: 107.3 | BE: 138
A disappointing total on the weekend should see Sicily’s price fall over the next fortnight. Almost a must-have with his dual-position status.
Jeremy McGovern | DEF | $451,000 | Avg: 89 | BE: 62
Amassed a formidable score of 123 on the weekend, his second ton for the season. Averaged 93 points after his bye in 2017.
Nic Naitanui | RUCK | $469,500 | Avg: 98 | BE: 85
Here is your man if you are looking for a ruck option. His limited game time is the only thing holding him back from going bananas, and that should ramp up as the season goes on.
Jack Gunston | FWD | $468,300 | Avg: 94.8 | BE: 79
Gunston has scored back-to-back tons in what has been a very solid season so far. Doesn’t need a massive scoreboard impact to score well, either. Safe pick.
HOLDING ON TO BYE-FRIENDLY ROOKIES
Just as we trade in players who have the early byes, we should look to keep bye friendly cash cows — even if it means losing some cash.
It makes the decision easier for the 72,070 (37 per cent) of teams who still have Nick Holman, who has a meagre break-even of 13 after churning out 122 SuperCoach points on the weekend.
David Mirra is another rookie who should continue to make us cash over the byes.
Tom Cole is the main example here, having appeared to cement a spot in the West Coast defence.
While his break-even is creeping up to his average, it is worth holding him for coverage through the byes.
GUNNING FOR LEAGUE WINS
Rank isn’t important for all players, with bragging rights in their league being their No. 1 priority. The advice is simple for those looking to get wins on the board in their SuperCoach leagues: look at your opposition.
For instance, if your opponent you are facing in Round 14 hasn’t checked their side since Round 1, you can afford to trade in players who have their bye in Round 14.
However, if you are playing a strong SuperCoach player in the byes who you are hungry to knock off, prioritise this bye round with your trading.
Just hope you aren’t dealt the raw end of the stick playing three strong coaches from Round 12-14.
RISK TAKERS
Some thrill seekers might consider trading out a premium the week before their bye, with the hope of trading them BACK in soon after.
SuperCoach folklore forbids us to trade a premium, but it has some merit dodging a zero if the player has a high break-even.
Take Robbie Gray this week for example, who has the post-China bye. His price has just about peaked at $541,900, with a mammoth 138 break-even to contend with after scoring just 67 points last weekend. Rather than copping the zero, trading him for soaring Eagle Jack Darling ($561,200, 33 BE) — the top SuperCoach scoring forward in the competition — would require less than $20,000.
Another two poor scores could see Gray fall below $500,000, making him a bargain upgrade around bye time.
It is a bold move that could come back to bite you, but considering Gray’s lack of midfield minutes last week, it could see you reap both financial and scoring benefits.
Not for me, though. I want to be able to sleep at night.
FAQS
How many players is a good amount to have playing each round?
This is hard to say, as an 18-man team loaded up with premiums can score as many as a 22-playing side full of rookies. There is no hard and fast rule, but 19 is a solid amount, allowing your lowest scoring player to fall out of your score.
Most sides will have a greater amount in Round 12 with fewer teams having the week off.
Don’t feel as though you have to play 18 each week, either. Often trading in a player just to avoid a zero may only add 40 points, and will be detrimental to your side down the track.
Stick to your structures, trades are gold.
How many trades should we have at the end of the byes?
This will vary from side to side but generally speaking, the ultimate goal is having 6-10 trades and a full premium side at Round 15. But, like many things in life, it is easier said than done.
CLOSING WORDS
For those who are already pulling their hair out: don’t fret, you are not alone.
All SuperCoaches are going through the same thing during this difficult time, so stay calm.
Best of luck, and happy trading!
Giants insist AFL’s $167m investment will work as expansion club says its already paying for itself
MICHAEL WARNER, Herald Sun
15 minutes ago
Subscriber only
THE AFL will pour another $23 million into Greater Western Sydney this season — taking the total investment in the expansion club beyond $167 million.
But after seven seasons, Giants chairman Tony Shepherd insists they are on track “to become a fully viable club with a solid membership and fan base” by about 2032.
GIANT STEP FORWARD:*KELLY HOPES TO MAKE IMPACT
ROBBO:*DID JOSH KELLY MAKE A $10M MISTAKE?
All clubs receive at least $10 million a year from the AFL — St Kilda will have received about $115 million in AFL distributions in the same period and Collingwood about $83 million — but the Giants and Gold Coast Suns remain most dependent on HQ.
The value of footy’s “ninth game” now equates to $46 million a season under the league’s mammoth $2.5 billion TV deal and Shepherd told the*Herald Sun*the club based in NRL heartland was already paying for itself.
Suggestions the Giants were going to be fully established after five or 10 seasons “was just completely ignoring the reality of the situation”, he said.
“It’s taken the Sydney Swans 30 years and a couple of flags to get where they are — 30 years and a lot of pain and a lot of people lost money,” Shepherd said.
“But they are there now and it’s a great model and inspiration for us, frankly.”
Ex-Australian Rugby League chief executive Geoff Carr once warned the AFL its push into western Sydney could be its Vietnam War.
“If they want to fight out there, that is their call,” Carr said in 2009.
Shepherd said the Vietnam barb continued to drive him and the club’s management.
Callan Ward and the Giants are in it for the long haul. Picture: Getty Images
“I’m not the smartest guy in the world, but I tell you what, I’m one of the most determined and that inspired me to say, ‘I’ll make you eat those words, and if I have to wait 20 years to make you eat them, we will get there,” he said.
“This was a very brave decision by the AFL, but if you love our code and what it stands for and understand that it is really tuned into the Australian psyche, then you’ll have confidence that you can make it.
“It will take patience and ruthless intent but we will get there — and, again, if you want an example — the Sydney Swans, they’ve done it.
“The example sits there looking people in the face.
“We are carving out our own destiny, and we’re getting acceptance.”
Crucially, Shepherd said the AFL was winning the ground war, with Australian rules participation numbers doubling in western Sydney since 2013.
The Giants have signed 21,655 members — double the Suns — and are “running sixth in the league for commercial sponsorships”.
“People like our culture, the fact that we are multicultural and have a strong and growing women’s competition,” Shepherd said.
“That plays out well in western Sydney. Our demographic is mum, dad and two kids — we fit well in that and we don’t like boofheads and we try and keep good standards.”
The Giants are also cashing in on a $23 million, 10-year deal to play matches at Manuka Oval in Canberra and boast net assets of $10.3 million.
Revenues topped $42 million in 2017, while the NSW Government tipped in $45 million to help redevelop the club’s Spotless Stadium home ground.
The Giants are adamant they are winning the war in the west. Picture: Getty Images
Shepherd said: “When we started I sat down with two of the hardest heads you could meet in sports administration, Andrew Demetriou and Mike Fitzpatrick — and I’m an AFL junkie from way back and have lived in Sydney 40 years — and I said: ‘Look, I know the Sydney sports market very well ... and this is going to be a hard job. And if you expect it to be done in five or 10 years you’re going to be sadly disappointed’.
“We will probably be able to reduce the time that it took the Swans to get established, because they didn’t have the benefits that we’ve been given ...
“(Over the next) 13 years, we will get well established — our membership should be approaching something similar to the Swans in the 40-50,000 range, attendances for good games should be getting right up there and most importantly we will be building a team, like the Swans have, with far more NSW talent.
“We will have a lot more stability and experienced local people working in areas like sports science.
“We’ll always be a bit different from the Swans ... but we will be an established feature of the Sydney and Canberra sporting scene.”
As for suggestions Alastair Clarkson could be poached to replace coach Leon Cameron, Shepherd said: “We’ve extended Leon — I think he’s a great coach — he’s taken us to two prelims, he’s respected by the players, he’s intelligent, he’s engaged and he listens.
“I don’t think there’s any chance of that happening.”
Diehard Giants fans at the MCG for last year’s preliminary final. Picture. Phil HillyardGIANT JOURNEYLADDER FINISHES
2012*— 18th
2013*— 18th
2014*— 16th
2015*— 11th
2016*— 4th
2017*— 4th
2018*— 11th (after nine rounds)
AFL DISTRIBUTIONS
2011*— $22m
2012*— $18.63m
2013*— $18.17m
2014*— $20.16m
2015*— $21.63m
2016*— $21.15m
2017*— $22.98m
2018*— $23.22m
TOTAL*— $167.94m
2017 AFL CLUB DISTRIBUTIONS*
Adelaide*$11.5m
Brisbane*$20m
Carlton*$12.6m
Collingwood*$10.6m
Essendon*$11.5m
Fremantle*$11.3m
Geelong*$11.4m
Gold Coast*$24.2m
Giants*$22.5m **
Hawthorn*$10.7m
Melbourne*$15.4m
North Melbourne*$15.7m
Port Adelaide*$14.5m
Richmond*$12.4m
St Kilda*$19.4m
Sydney*$12.8m
West Coast*$10.6m
Western Bulldogs*$16.6m
* 2017 AFL annual report
** Figure differs from club’s own accounts
2018 GWS HOME CROWDS
Round 1 v WB —*10,454*at UNSW Canberra Oval
Round 4 v Frem*— 11,356*at UNSW Canberra Oval
Round 6 v Bris*— 10,046*at Spotless Stadium
Round 8 v WC*— 9253*at Spotless Stadium
MICHAEL WARNER, Herald Sun
15 minutes ago
Subscriber only
THE AFL will pour another $23 million into Greater Western Sydney this season — taking the total investment in the expansion club beyond $167 million.
But after seven seasons, Giants chairman Tony Shepherd insists they are on track “to become a fully viable club with a solid membership and fan base” by about 2032.
GIANT STEP FORWARD:*KELLY HOPES TO MAKE IMPACT
ROBBO:*DID JOSH KELLY MAKE A $10M MISTAKE?
All clubs receive at least $10 million a year from the AFL — St Kilda will have received about $115 million in AFL distributions in the same period and Collingwood about $83 million — but the Giants and Gold Coast Suns remain most dependent on HQ.
The value of footy’s “ninth game” now equates to $46 million a season under the league’s mammoth $2.5 billion TV deal and Shepherd told the*Herald Sun*the club based in NRL heartland was already paying for itself.
Suggestions the Giants were going to be fully established after five or 10 seasons “was just completely ignoring the reality of the situation”, he said.
“It’s taken the Sydney Swans 30 years and a couple of flags to get where they are — 30 years and a lot of pain and a lot of people lost money,” Shepherd said.
“But they are there now and it’s a great model and inspiration for us, frankly.”
Ex-Australian Rugby League chief executive Geoff Carr once warned the AFL its push into western Sydney could be its Vietnam War.
“If they want to fight out there, that is their call,” Carr said in 2009.
Shepherd said the Vietnam barb continued to drive him and the club’s management.
Callan Ward and the Giants are in it for the long haul. Picture: Getty Images
“I’m not the smartest guy in the world, but I tell you what, I’m one of the most determined and that inspired me to say, ‘I’ll make you eat those words, and if I have to wait 20 years to make you eat them, we will get there,” he said.
“This was a very brave decision by the AFL, but if you love our code and what it stands for and understand that it is really tuned into the Australian psyche, then you’ll have confidence that you can make it.
“It will take patience and ruthless intent but we will get there — and, again, if you want an example — the Sydney Swans, they’ve done it.
“The example sits there looking people in the face.
“We are carving out our own destiny, and we’re getting acceptance.”
Crucially, Shepherd said the AFL was winning the ground war, with Australian rules participation numbers doubling in western Sydney since 2013.
The Giants have signed 21,655 members — double the Suns — and are “running sixth in the league for commercial sponsorships”.
“People like our culture, the fact that we are multicultural and have a strong and growing women’s competition,” Shepherd said.
“That plays out well in western Sydney. Our demographic is mum, dad and two kids — we fit well in that and we don’t like boofheads and we try and keep good standards.”
The Giants are also cashing in on a $23 million, 10-year deal to play matches at Manuka Oval in Canberra and boast net assets of $10.3 million.
Revenues topped $42 million in 2017, while the NSW Government tipped in $45 million to help redevelop the club’s Spotless Stadium home ground.
The Giants are adamant they are winning the war in the west. Picture: Getty Images
Shepherd said: “When we started I sat down with two of the hardest heads you could meet in sports administration, Andrew Demetriou and Mike Fitzpatrick — and I’m an AFL junkie from way back and have lived in Sydney 40 years — and I said: ‘Look, I know the Sydney sports market very well ... and this is going to be a hard job. And if you expect it to be done in five or 10 years you’re going to be sadly disappointed’.
“We will probably be able to reduce the time that it took the Swans to get established, because they didn’t have the benefits that we’ve been given ...
“(Over the next) 13 years, we will get well established — our membership should be approaching something similar to the Swans in the 40-50,000 range, attendances for good games should be getting right up there and most importantly we will be building a team, like the Swans have, with far more NSW talent.
“We will have a lot more stability and experienced local people working in areas like sports science.
“We’ll always be a bit different from the Swans ... but we will be an established feature of the Sydney and Canberra sporting scene.”
As for suggestions Alastair Clarkson could be poached to replace coach Leon Cameron, Shepherd said: “We’ve extended Leon — I think he’s a great coach — he’s taken us to two prelims, he’s respected by the players, he’s intelligent, he’s engaged and he listens.
“I don’t think there’s any chance of that happening.”
Diehard Giants fans at the MCG for last year’s preliminary final. Picture. Phil HillyardGIANT JOURNEYLADDER FINISHES
2012*— 18th
2013*— 18th
2014*— 16th
2015*— 11th
2016*— 4th
2017*— 4th
2018*— 11th (after nine rounds)
AFL DISTRIBUTIONS
2011*— $22m
2012*— $18.63m
2013*— $18.17m
2014*— $20.16m
2015*— $21.63m
2016*— $21.15m
2017*— $22.98m
2018*— $23.22m
TOTAL*— $167.94m
2017 AFL CLUB DISTRIBUTIONS*
Adelaide*$11.5m
Brisbane*$20m
Carlton*$12.6m
Collingwood*$10.6m
Essendon*$11.5m
Fremantle*$11.3m
Geelong*$11.4m
Gold Coast*$24.2m
Giants*$22.5m **
Hawthorn*$10.7m
Melbourne*$15.4m
North Melbourne*$15.7m
Port Adelaide*$14.5m
Richmond*$12.4m
St Kilda*$19.4m
Sydney*$12.8m
West Coast*$10.6m
Western Bulldogs*$16.6m
* 2017 AFL annual report
** Figure differs from club’s own accounts
2018 GWS HOME CROWDS
Round 1 v WB —*10,454*at UNSW Canberra Oval
Round 4 v Frem*— 11,356*at UNSW Canberra Oval
Round 6 v Bris*— 10,046*at Spotless Stadium
Round 8 v WC*— 9253*at Spotless Stadium
Dangerfield the midfielder a much better fit for spluttering Geelong
MATTHEW LLOYD, Herald Sun
43 minutes ago
Subscriber only
PATRICK Dangerfield is having a good season, but not a great one by his lofty standards.
Midfielders Nathan Fyfe, Jack Macrae, Tom Mitchell, Patrick Cripps, Trent Cotchin and Steele Sidebottom are all ahead of him and inside the top 10 of the coaches’ association player of the year award in which each coach votes 5-4-3-2-1 on a weekly basis.
SHOCKING STAT:*CATS WORST CENTRE-SQUARE TEAM
PROBLEM:*CATS’ BIG ISSUE WITH GAZZA
SUPERCOACH:*WHAT TO DO WITH PADDY
Dangerfield has polled in multiple games but has yet to be the best player on the ground in any, which is a*far cry from the form that has made him both a Brownlow medallist*and a five-time All-Australian.
Dangerfield’s form sums up Geelong in many ways.
Their best has been exceptional, but the Cats, like Dangerfield, have been both spasmodic within games and from one week to the next.
When a champion like Dangerfield isn’t at his best, we often ask the question: “Is he playing sore?”
Only those inside Geelong know the answer.
What I do know is that Dangerfield is being asked to play two roles for Geelong, as a midfielder and a forward, and I don’t believe he has quite mastered either in 2018.
Dangerfield has spent 59 per cent of his game time in the midfield and 41 per cent in the forward line in 2018.
Matthew Lloyd says Patrick Dangerfield has struggled to play two roles this year. Picture: Getty Images
In 2017, that breakdown was 74 per cent in the midfield and 26 per cent in attack.
In his Brownlow year with the Cats in 2016, his first at the club, that ratio was 83 per cent in the midfield and 17 per cent forward.
Dangerfield’s current ratio is not allowing Geelong to see the best of him in either role.
Seeing Dangerfield contest the ruck last weekend showed just how much Chris Scott is asking of his main man and the frustration was there for all to see in the way Dangerfield went about those contests.
Dangerfield has kicked nine goals from his eight games this season, yet he had 16 after nine rounds last year when playing more through the midfield.
That surprise factor of Dangerfield going forward doesn’t exist at the moment as he is stationed there so often.
Opponents plan for it as they know it will happen for large periods, every week.
I will never forget the chaos the move caused in Alastair Clarkson’s coaches’ box last year when Dangerfield hurt his knee.
Patrick Dangerfield and Joel Selwood lead the Cats off after their surprising defeat to Essendon. Picture: Getty Images
Dangerfield went to full-forward and kicked 5.6 on one leg when the Hawks were pressing up high and it left him inside 50 with Hawthorn defenders petrified at the thought of who was standing 10m behind them.
Even Luke Hodge was wanting out of his customary loose man role he plays so well.
John Longmire and his rampaging Swans were also not ready for the Dangerfield express in last year’s semi-final win at the MCG when Scott started Dangerfield at full-forward.
Dangerfield took the game away from the Swans by quarter-time in a powerful display of overhead marking.
Dane Rampe has never looked as nervous seeing an incoming ball as he did that night, with Dangerfield in his area. Again, it was a move that couldn’t fully be planned for by the Swans as he had been a midfielder for most of the season.
Geelong is the 18th-ranked clearance side and its underwhelming rucks in Zac Smith and Rhys Stanley give them little opportunity to be proactive at the stoppage, with the Cats ranking 15th for hitouts to advantage.
Geelong is the 18th-ranked clearance team despite boasting Patrick Dangerfield, Joel Selwood and Gary Ablett. Picture: Getty Images
The lack of consistency in their ability to compete from Smith and Stanley must drive competitors like Dangerfield and the Selwood brothers crazy.
That will not change, so a lot will be asked of Esava Ratugolea in the back half of the season.
This is all the more reason to get Dangerfield back playing mostly in the midfield.
His Brownlow Medal-winning year — in which the ratio was 80 per cent midfield and 20 per cent in the forward line — looks to be the right balance for what would be best for Dangerfield and Geelong.
Scott needs to allow Dangerfield to dominate one area of the ground, not be pulled between two which hurts the continuity of a player’s game, no matter how good they are.
The dynamics of the midfield dream team with Gary Ablett in the mix also looks to lack cohesion. Getting the midfield personnel gelling with the right blend of ball hunters and role players has never quite looked right at Geelong this season.
Injuries have hurt Geelong’s continuity and getting Brandon Parfitt and Nakia Cockatoo back for the second half of the year should allow for Dangerfield to be the midfielder Geelong needs him to be to challenge for this year’s premiership.
A premiership is all that is missing from Dangerfield’s CV and asking him to be Superman is only taking the Cats further away from that.
MATTHEW LLOYD, Herald Sun
43 minutes ago
Subscriber only
PATRICK Dangerfield is having a good season, but not a great one by his lofty standards.
Midfielders Nathan Fyfe, Jack Macrae, Tom Mitchell, Patrick Cripps, Trent Cotchin and Steele Sidebottom are all ahead of him and inside the top 10 of the coaches’ association player of the year award in which each coach votes 5-4-3-2-1 on a weekly basis.
SHOCKING STAT:*CATS WORST CENTRE-SQUARE TEAM
PROBLEM:*CATS’ BIG ISSUE WITH GAZZA
SUPERCOACH:*WHAT TO DO WITH PADDY
Dangerfield has polled in multiple games but has yet to be the best player on the ground in any, which is a*far cry from the form that has made him both a Brownlow medallist*and a five-time All-Australian.
Dangerfield’s form sums up Geelong in many ways.
Their best has been exceptional, but the Cats, like Dangerfield, have been both spasmodic within games and from one week to the next.
When a champion like Dangerfield isn’t at his best, we often ask the question: “Is he playing sore?”
Only those inside Geelong know the answer.
What I do know is that Dangerfield is being asked to play two roles for Geelong, as a midfielder and a forward, and I don’t believe he has quite mastered either in 2018.
Dangerfield has spent 59 per cent of his game time in the midfield and 41 per cent in the forward line in 2018.
Matthew Lloyd says Patrick Dangerfield has struggled to play two roles this year. Picture: Getty Images
In 2017, that breakdown was 74 per cent in the midfield and 26 per cent in attack.
In his Brownlow year with the Cats in 2016, his first at the club, that ratio was 83 per cent in the midfield and 17 per cent forward.
Dangerfield’s current ratio is not allowing Geelong to see the best of him in either role.
Seeing Dangerfield contest the ruck last weekend showed just how much Chris Scott is asking of his main man and the frustration was there for all to see in the way Dangerfield went about those contests.
Dangerfield has kicked nine goals from his eight games this season, yet he had 16 after nine rounds last year when playing more through the midfield.
That surprise factor of Dangerfield going forward doesn’t exist at the moment as he is stationed there so often.
Opponents plan for it as they know it will happen for large periods, every week.
I will never forget the chaos the move caused in Alastair Clarkson’s coaches’ box last year when Dangerfield hurt his knee.
Patrick Dangerfield and Joel Selwood lead the Cats off after their surprising defeat to Essendon. Picture: Getty Images
Dangerfield went to full-forward and kicked 5.6 on one leg when the Hawks were pressing up high and it left him inside 50 with Hawthorn defenders petrified at the thought of who was standing 10m behind them.
Even Luke Hodge was wanting out of his customary loose man role he plays so well.
John Longmire and his rampaging Swans were also not ready for the Dangerfield express in last year’s semi-final win at the MCG when Scott started Dangerfield at full-forward.
Dangerfield took the game away from the Swans by quarter-time in a powerful display of overhead marking.
Dane Rampe has never looked as nervous seeing an incoming ball as he did that night, with Dangerfield in his area. Again, it was a move that couldn’t fully be planned for by the Swans as he had been a midfielder for most of the season.
Geelong is the 18th-ranked clearance side and its underwhelming rucks in Zac Smith and Rhys Stanley give them little opportunity to be proactive at the stoppage, with the Cats ranking 15th for hitouts to advantage.
Geelong is the 18th-ranked clearance team despite boasting Patrick Dangerfield, Joel Selwood and Gary Ablett. Picture: Getty Images
The lack of consistency in their ability to compete from Smith and Stanley must drive competitors like Dangerfield and the Selwood brothers crazy.
That will not change, so a lot will be asked of Esava Ratugolea in the back half of the season.
This is all the more reason to get Dangerfield back playing mostly in the midfield.
His Brownlow Medal-winning year — in which the ratio was 80 per cent midfield and 20 per cent in the forward line — looks to be the right balance for what would be best for Dangerfield and Geelong.
Scott needs to allow Dangerfield to dominate one area of the ground, not be pulled between two which hurts the continuity of a player’s game, no matter how good they are.
The dynamics of the midfield dream team with Gary Ablett in the mix also looks to lack cohesion. Getting the midfield personnel gelling with the right blend of ball hunters and role players has never quite looked right at Geelong this season.
Injuries have hurt Geelong’s continuity and getting Brandon Parfitt and Nakia Cockatoo back for the second half of the year should allow for Dangerfield to be the midfielder Geelong needs him to be to challenge for this year’s premiership.
A premiership is all that is missing from Dangerfield’s CV and asking him to be Superman is only taking the Cats further away from that.
Round 10 review: we look at the SuperCoach stars on the cheap and the week’s best scores
Ben Higgins, Herald Sun
May 28, 2018 5:06pm
Subscriber only
IT’S almost bye time.
We’re cashing in our cash cows and looking to upgrade but what if money’s tight and you need a cut-price option to set you apart?
Never fear, we’ve got you covered with six of our favourite options under $500,000 (three forwards and three defenders)
Jesse Hogan ($451,800, FWD)
Average: 96
The Melbourne spearhead is coming off a 123 in Alice Springs against Melbourne and has taken his scoring to a new level this year. Admittedly, he has a 36 to his name but also has six 90-plus scores in 10 games.
Travis Boak ($485,500, Mid-FWD)
Average: 97
The Power captain is extra attractive due to his dual position eligibility and having already had his bye. Boak hasn’t scored below 77 this year and has six scores of 95 or more. Which, for a forward, is pretty good this year.
David Mundy ($460,200, Mid-FWD)
Average: 95
A few were doubting Mundy’s SuperCoach relevance but he’s become one of the season’s safest picks in the forward line. He has scored a 53 in the rout to Richmond but otherwise has seven 90-plus scores.
Tom Rockliff ($374,900, Mid)
Average: 62
A SuperCoach Hall of Famer, Rockliff is just ridiculously cheap for what we know he can produce. And after returning from injury, that’s exactly what he’s done, scoring a 98 in the Showdown and 102 in China.
Kade Simpson ($497,500, Def)
Average: 106
The Carlton veteran just keeps pumping out the SuperCoach gold. Simpson amassed 140 in the loss to Geelong, his third 140-plus score of the year. He’s also got a relatively high base with his lowest score a 70.
Shannon Hurn ($476,500, Def)
Average: 98
The Eagles captain has always teased us in SuperCoach land but this year he is finally delivering on a consistent basis. Aside from one 58, Hurn’s lowest score is 83 and he’s also posted seven 90-plus scores.
Michael Walters ($419,700, Mid-Fwd)
Average: 93
Take out an injury-affected 17 and Walters average jumps to 104. The Dockers star is coming off a massive 146 and is the second most popular trade target this week behind cash cow Tim Smith. His bye isn’t friendly but his scoring potential is.
Heath Shaw ($448,100, Def)
Average: 93
Some may have been burnt last season but Shaw is worth another look. He responded magnificently to a shocking 54 in Round 9 with a huge 149 this week. The Giants defender is scoring on a more consistent basis this season, something he hasn’t always been known for.
Heath Shaw at GWS training.
PLAYER OF THE WEEK: MITCH ROBINSON
Robinson was the top-ranked player for the round after scoring 172 SuperCoach points, rising in price by $15,700 along the way. He had 35 disposals and a career-high 26 contested possessions and 13 clearances against the Swans. He also had seven tackles, nine inside 50s and three score assists from 81 per cent game time.
HEATH SHAW
Shaw wound back the clock with a vintage display against the Bombers, finishing with a season and game-high 149 SuperCoach points. He had 26 effective disposals, 13 contested possessions, four inside 50s and one score assist from 87 per cent game time. He also won the ball back and had a game-high 15 intercepts – seven more than anyone else on the ground.
NAT FYFE
Despite the close attention from Ben Jacobs, Fyfe racked up a game-high 163 SuperCoach points against the Kangaroos. He had 31 disposals, 24 contested possessions, eight clearances, eight tackles and three inside 50s from 92 per cent game time. He also chipped in with one goal and was involved in nine scoring chains.
ANDREW GAFF
Gaff continues to lead the way for West Coast, adding another 135 SuperCoach points to his season tally, his third score above 120 points. He had game-highs of 35 disposals and 26 uncontested possessions in the win over Hawthorn, as well as seven clearances, four inside 50s and one goal.
YOUNG GUN: ED RICHARDS
Ed Richards scored a season-high 102 SuperCoach points last round against Collingwood. He tallied a season-high 23 disposals, of which 17 were effective. He was one of three Bulldogs to reach double figure contested possessions (10) – also recording five inside 50s, four tackles and two score assists.
Ben Higgins, Herald Sun
May 28, 2018 5:06pm
Subscriber only
IT’S almost bye time.
We’re cashing in our cash cows and looking to upgrade but what if money’s tight and you need a cut-price option to set you apart?
Never fear, we’ve got you covered with six of our favourite options under $500,000 (three forwards and three defenders)
Jesse Hogan ($451,800, FWD)
Average: 96
The Melbourne spearhead is coming off a 123 in Alice Springs against Melbourne and has taken his scoring to a new level this year. Admittedly, he has a 36 to his name but also has six 90-plus scores in 10 games.
Travis Boak ($485,500, Mid-FWD)
Average: 97
The Power captain is extra attractive due to his dual position eligibility and having already had his bye. Boak hasn’t scored below 77 this year and has six scores of 95 or more. Which, for a forward, is pretty good this year.
David Mundy ($460,200, Mid-FWD)
Average: 95
A few were doubting Mundy’s SuperCoach relevance but he’s become one of the season’s safest picks in the forward line. He has scored a 53 in the rout to Richmond but otherwise has seven 90-plus scores.
Tom Rockliff ($374,900, Mid)
Average: 62
A SuperCoach Hall of Famer, Rockliff is just ridiculously cheap for what we know he can produce. And after returning from injury, that’s exactly what he’s done, scoring a 98 in the Showdown and 102 in China.
Kade Simpson ($497,500, Def)
Average: 106
The Carlton veteran just keeps pumping out the SuperCoach gold. Simpson amassed 140 in the loss to Geelong, his third 140-plus score of the year. He’s also got a relatively high base with his lowest score a 70.
Shannon Hurn ($476,500, Def)
Average: 98
The Eagles captain has always teased us in SuperCoach land but this year he is finally delivering on a consistent basis. Aside from one 58, Hurn’s lowest score is 83 and he’s also posted seven 90-plus scores.
Michael Walters ($419,700, Mid-Fwd)
Average: 93
Take out an injury-affected 17 and Walters average jumps to 104. The Dockers star is coming off a massive 146 and is the second most popular trade target this week behind cash cow Tim Smith. His bye isn’t friendly but his scoring potential is.
Heath Shaw ($448,100, Def)
Average: 93
Some may have been burnt last season but Shaw is worth another look. He responded magnificently to a shocking 54 in Round 9 with a huge 149 this week. The Giants defender is scoring on a more consistent basis this season, something he hasn’t always been known for.
Heath Shaw at GWS training.
PLAYER OF THE WEEK: MITCH ROBINSON
Robinson was the top-ranked player for the round after scoring 172 SuperCoach points, rising in price by $15,700 along the way. He had 35 disposals and a career-high 26 contested possessions and 13 clearances against the Swans. He also had seven tackles, nine inside 50s and three score assists from 81 per cent game time.
HEATH SHAW
Shaw wound back the clock with a vintage display against the Bombers, finishing with a season and game-high 149 SuperCoach points. He had 26 effective disposals, 13 contested possessions, four inside 50s and one score assist from 87 per cent game time. He also won the ball back and had a game-high 15 intercepts – seven more than anyone else on the ground.
NAT FYFE
Despite the close attention from Ben Jacobs, Fyfe racked up a game-high 163 SuperCoach points against the Kangaroos. He had 31 disposals, 24 contested possessions, eight clearances, eight tackles and three inside 50s from 92 per cent game time. He also chipped in with one goal and was involved in nine scoring chains.
ANDREW GAFF
Gaff continues to lead the way for West Coast, adding another 135 SuperCoach points to his season tally, his third score above 120 points. He had game-highs of 35 disposals and 26 uncontested possessions in the win over Hawthorn, as well as seven clearances, four inside 50s and one goal.
YOUNG GUN: ED RICHARDS
Ed Richards scored a season-high 102 SuperCoach points last round against Collingwood. He tallied a season-high 23 disposals, of which 17 were effective. He was one of three Bulldogs to reach double figure contested possessions (10) – also recording five inside 50s, four tackles and two score assists.
Tom Rockliff, Ollie Wines among SuperCoach stars to help ease the pain of upcoming bye period
Anthony Hack, Herald Sun
May 27, 2018 11:00pm
Subscriber only
GET those trade fingers ready because it’s time to rage trade some underperformers and high-priced rookies with the security of bye-free players available for the first time in 2018.
With Gold Coast and Port Adelaide travelling to China in Round 9, both teams were given the week off, meaning players from these teams will now be available for you throughout the multi-bye rounds when solutions are severely limited.
Have a look at your team and work out how you can improve it, and most of the time at this stage of the season the best way would be to trade out your rookies, most of which must be near peaking in value by now.
This week we look at the best players free to play during Rounds 12, 13 and 14 and help to ease the bye pain.
BOOT HIM
MARCUS BONTEMPELLI
Scored his lowest score of the season with a 47, after an impressive run of scores over his last three games all 120+. If you do trade him out, make sure you find that reverse button before lockout.
BACHAR HOULI
Having his poorest season for a long time and hasn’t even scored over 100 once yet this season. A groin injury this round and a score of only 15 will see his price plummet over the next few weeks so if you happen to have him, jump off as soon as you can.
JACK BILLINGS
Still not getting it done, with a score of just 70. Priced so low now that you may as well bench him and trade your rookies instead, but get rid of him at some point.
TIM TARANTO
Hasn’t scored a hundred since Round 6 and had just 53 this round. With Josh Kelly back in the Giants’ side, it’s time to move Taranto out of your SuperCoach team.
BRANDAN PARFITT
His huge score of 168 from Round 4 is now out of his rolling average after following it up with scores of 94 and 57. Maybe worth hanging on to for one more week, but a good option to upgrade this week too.
CHRISTIAN PETRACCA
Has been a tad more respectable the past two weeks with scores of 89 and 81 but he is still not performing near what his owners would be hoping for.
BUY HIM
TOM ROCKLIFF
After starting the season up forward and with some injury problems, Rocky has moved into the midfield the last two games and has looked much more like the old reliable Rocky we have known in the past who has consistently been one of the best SuperCoach performers in the AFL. Is currently priced at less than $375,000 and is too hard to ignore!
ROBBIE GRAY
With Rockliff’s move into the midfield, Robbie Gray has played predominantly forward the last two games after starting the season in the midfield. He showed in Round 8 that playing forward doesn’t have to limit his scoring potential as he scored 122 in a match-winning display but he can’t always play such a starring role and a week later he managed just 67 points in his most recent game. He has a high breakeven so it may be worth waiting a week on Gray to see how he goes again this week.
PATRICK RYDER
If it wasn’t for his Round 10 bye, Ryder would have likely been a popular option to pair with Max Gawn as starting rucks this season. Ryder finished off the 2017 season in dominant form, but hasn’t been able to continue that on this season, mainly due to injury. He has played three games since returning to the side and has averaged 102 points over his last two games. Priced at $501,900 and with a breakeven of 100, now is a good time to get him into your team.
AARON HALL
Has been in and out of the side so far this season, but has played the last two in a row and has averaged 123 points over that period. He has a very low breakeven and is priced at just $460,600.
Paddy Ryder at Port Adelaide training. Picture: Tait Schmaal
TOM JONAS
Probably the defender I would consider most of all Port Adelaide and Gold Coast players. Has played all nine games and is averaging 94 with four hundreds and a low score of 84 which he has actually scored three times.
OLLIE WINES
Averaging 97 which he has outscored in his last two games. Wines looks to have bottomed out in price after a 57 in Round 6, sitting at $457,900 with a breakeven expected to be beaten.
KADE SIMPSON
Scored 140-plus for the third time this season and has the third best average of all defenders. Priced at less than $500k, he’s a great buy this week.
MICHAEL WALTERS
Looked to be a great starting selection before he injured his knee in Round 6. Now in his second game back he’s scored 146 and is cheaper than his starting price.
CAPTAINS REPORT CARD
A+: Mitch Robinson 172, Nat Fyfe 163, Brodie Grundy 152, Michael Walters 146, Kade Simpson 140
A: Stephen Coniglio 138, Andrew Gaff 135, Patrick Dangerfield 133, Isaac Heeney 128, Sam Menegola 125
B: Toby McLean 122, Tom Mitchell 116, Max Gawn 114
C: Dustin Martin 105, Jack Macrae 102, Matt Crouch 100
D: Dayne Zorko 99, Josh Kelly 99, Clayton Oliver 98, Patty Cripps 97
E: Gary Ablett 86, Luke Parker 84, Joel Selwood 82
F: Lance Franklin 60
BENCH CALLS
Better onfield: Logan Austin 106, Tom Doedee 104, Ed Richards 102, Tim Smith 101, Jack Henry 99, Bayley Fritsch 87, David Mirra 81, Adam Cerra 75, Ben Ronke 74, Andrew Brayshaw 72, Paddy Dow 72, Willie Rioli 72.
Better on the bench: Bailey Rice 68, Matt Guelfi 68, Bailey Banfield 64, Flynn Appleby 63, Charlie Spargo 61, Cam O’Shea 59, Jaidyn Stephenson 58, Tim Kelly 57, Ed Phillips 57, Tom Cole 54, Hunter Clark 53, Darcy Fogarty 52, Jack Higgins 51, Billy Gowers 49, Jordan Ridley 49, Oscar McInerney 41, Cam Rayner 35, Dylan Buckley 29, Myles Poholke 28, Matt Eagles 28, Tom McCartin 23, Esava Ratugolea -2.
NAILED IT
BEN HIGGINS: Lance Franklin to have 5-plus goals, 4-plus goal assists and 140 or more SuperCoach points.
FAILED IT: Buddy had one of his worst games of the season with just one goal and one goal assist, scoring just 60 points.
DAN BEGALA: Dustin Martin to post 30-plus disposals, two or more goals and 130-plus SuperCoach points.
FAILED IT: But close. Dusty was back in form after building a little last week but he fell short of Dan’s predictions
with just 26 disposals, two goals and 105 SC points.
Anthony Hack, Herald Sun
May 27, 2018 11:00pm
Subscriber only
GET those trade fingers ready because it’s time to rage trade some underperformers and high-priced rookies with the security of bye-free players available for the first time in 2018.
With Gold Coast and Port Adelaide travelling to China in Round 9, both teams were given the week off, meaning players from these teams will now be available for you throughout the multi-bye rounds when solutions are severely limited.
Have a look at your team and work out how you can improve it, and most of the time at this stage of the season the best way would be to trade out your rookies, most of which must be near peaking in value by now.
This week we look at the best players free to play during Rounds 12, 13 and 14 and help to ease the bye pain.
BOOT HIM
MARCUS BONTEMPELLI
Scored his lowest score of the season with a 47, after an impressive run of scores over his last three games all 120+. If you do trade him out, make sure you find that reverse button before lockout.
BACHAR HOULI
Having his poorest season for a long time and hasn’t even scored over 100 once yet this season. A groin injury this round and a score of only 15 will see his price plummet over the next few weeks so if you happen to have him, jump off as soon as you can.
JACK BILLINGS
Still not getting it done, with a score of just 70. Priced so low now that you may as well bench him and trade your rookies instead, but get rid of him at some point.
TIM TARANTO
Hasn’t scored a hundred since Round 6 and had just 53 this round. With Josh Kelly back in the Giants’ side, it’s time to move Taranto out of your SuperCoach team.
BRANDAN PARFITT
His huge score of 168 from Round 4 is now out of his rolling average after following it up with scores of 94 and 57. Maybe worth hanging on to for one more week, but a good option to upgrade this week too.
CHRISTIAN PETRACCA
Has been a tad more respectable the past two weeks with scores of 89 and 81 but he is still not performing near what his owners would be hoping for.
BUY HIM
TOM ROCKLIFF
After starting the season up forward and with some injury problems, Rocky has moved into the midfield the last two games and has looked much more like the old reliable Rocky we have known in the past who has consistently been one of the best SuperCoach performers in the AFL. Is currently priced at less than $375,000 and is too hard to ignore!
ROBBIE GRAY
With Rockliff’s move into the midfield, Robbie Gray has played predominantly forward the last two games after starting the season in the midfield. He showed in Round 8 that playing forward doesn’t have to limit his scoring potential as he scored 122 in a match-winning display but he can’t always play such a starring role and a week later he managed just 67 points in his most recent game. He has a high breakeven so it may be worth waiting a week on Gray to see how he goes again this week.
PATRICK RYDER
If it wasn’t for his Round 10 bye, Ryder would have likely been a popular option to pair with Max Gawn as starting rucks this season. Ryder finished off the 2017 season in dominant form, but hasn’t been able to continue that on this season, mainly due to injury. He has played three games since returning to the side and has averaged 102 points over his last two games. Priced at $501,900 and with a breakeven of 100, now is a good time to get him into your team.
AARON HALL
Has been in and out of the side so far this season, but has played the last two in a row and has averaged 123 points over that period. He has a very low breakeven and is priced at just $460,600.
Paddy Ryder at Port Adelaide training. Picture: Tait Schmaal
TOM JONAS
Probably the defender I would consider most of all Port Adelaide and Gold Coast players. Has played all nine games and is averaging 94 with four hundreds and a low score of 84 which he has actually scored three times.
OLLIE WINES
Averaging 97 which he has outscored in his last two games. Wines looks to have bottomed out in price after a 57 in Round 6, sitting at $457,900 with a breakeven expected to be beaten.
KADE SIMPSON
Scored 140-plus for the third time this season and has the third best average of all defenders. Priced at less than $500k, he’s a great buy this week.
MICHAEL WALTERS
Looked to be a great starting selection before he injured his knee in Round 6. Now in his second game back he’s scored 146 and is cheaper than his starting price.
CAPTAINS REPORT CARD
A+: Mitch Robinson 172, Nat Fyfe 163, Brodie Grundy 152, Michael Walters 146, Kade Simpson 140
A: Stephen Coniglio 138, Andrew Gaff 135, Patrick Dangerfield 133, Isaac Heeney 128, Sam Menegola 125
B: Toby McLean 122, Tom Mitchell 116, Max Gawn 114
C: Dustin Martin 105, Jack Macrae 102, Matt Crouch 100
D: Dayne Zorko 99, Josh Kelly 99, Clayton Oliver 98, Patty Cripps 97
E: Gary Ablett 86, Luke Parker 84, Joel Selwood 82
F: Lance Franklin 60
BENCH CALLS
Better onfield: Logan Austin 106, Tom Doedee 104, Ed Richards 102, Tim Smith 101, Jack Henry 99, Bayley Fritsch 87, David Mirra 81, Adam Cerra 75, Ben Ronke 74, Andrew Brayshaw 72, Paddy Dow 72, Willie Rioli 72.
Better on the bench: Bailey Rice 68, Matt Guelfi 68, Bailey Banfield 64, Flynn Appleby 63, Charlie Spargo 61, Cam O’Shea 59, Jaidyn Stephenson 58, Tim Kelly 57, Ed Phillips 57, Tom Cole 54, Hunter Clark 53, Darcy Fogarty 52, Jack Higgins 51, Billy Gowers 49, Jordan Ridley 49, Oscar McInerney 41, Cam Rayner 35, Dylan Buckley 29, Myles Poholke 28, Matt Eagles 28, Tom McCartin 23, Esava Ratugolea -2.
NAILED IT
BEN HIGGINS: Lance Franklin to have 5-plus goals, 4-plus goal assists and 140 or more SuperCoach points.
FAILED IT: Buddy had one of his worst games of the season with just one goal and one goal assist, scoring just 60 points.
DAN BEGALA: Dustin Martin to post 30-plus disposals, two or more goals and 130-plus SuperCoach points.
FAILED IT: But close. Dusty was back in form after building a little last week but he fell short of Dan’s predictions
with just 26 disposals, two goals and 105 SC points.
Barometer: Every club’s injury list plus who might be going in and out of your AFL team for Round 11
Herald Sun
8 minutes ago
Subscriber only
RICHMOND’S dream run with injuries is over with two premiership stars out until at least Round 15.
Bachar Houli, who hurt his groin during Saturday’s win against St Kilda, and Dion Prestia, who hasn’t played since Round 7, have both been ruled out until after the Tigers’ bye.
SEE EVERY CLUB’S INJURY LIST BELOW
“Dion’s injury, initially, we thought was sort of more on the minor end and it would only be a week or so,” Richmond physical performance boss Peter Burge said.
“It took a little bit longer to settle down, as to where we thought it would. He started running a week and a half ago and did a good week of conditioning last week. He’s just at that point now where we can’t quite progress back into skills.”
JABS GONE WRONG: MENZEL’S INJECTION NIGHTMARE
SUPERCOACH: CUT-PRICE STARS YOU NEED TO KNOW
It has left the midfielder in “a holding pattern” for now.
“We’ve had to revise our time-line a bit, but given Dion’s pre-season, and some of the interruptions he’s had, we want to make absolutely sure he’s right for the second half of the year. So we are being cautious.”
In better news, Jack Riewoldt trained at Punt Rd on Tuesday morning as he faces more concussion tests.
Riewoldt suffered concussion in Saturday’s win over St Kilda with the Saints to decide in the next two hours whether to challenge Jake Carlisle’s two-match ban.
The Tigers premiership star appeared in good spirits today but no call on his Dreamtime at the G chances will be made for at least another 48 hours.
ADELAIDE
INJURIES:
Luke Brown (concussion) test
Andrew McPherson (groin) 1 week
Taylor Walker (glute/back) 2-3 weeks
Riley Knight (hamstring tendinitis) 2-3 weeks
Rory Sloane (foot) 2-3 weeks
Brad Crouch (groin soreness) TC
Mitch McGovern (ankle) 6-7 weeks
Paul Hunter (ankle)9-10 weeks
Paul Seedsman (adductor) TBC
Brodie Smith (knee) indefinite
ON THE BLOCK:*Is anyone safe after the Melbourne debacle? The 91-point loss to the Demons in Alice Springs was easily the Crows’ biggest margin of defeat in the Don Pyke coaching era, eclipsing the 59 points they lost to against North Melbourne in Tasmania in Round 7 last year. Young players Myles Poholke (nine disposals), who came into the side on Sunday as a late replacement for Paul Seedsman — who hurt his adductor muscle in the pre-game warm-up — and Jordan Gallucci (seven possessions) would be under serious pressure to retain their spots. But defenders Jake Kelly (nine touches) and Kyle Hartigan (10) also failed to fire on what was a rare shocking day for the club.
ON THE CUSP:*Adelaide’s long injury list is not only hurting it at AFL level but also in the SANFL. The Crows remain the only winless team in the State League competition after falling to West Adelaide by 69 points at Richmond Oval on Saturday. Young midfielder Matthew Signorello, veteran utility Andy Otten, hard-running onballer Curtly Hampton (three goals, 23 disposals) and rookie-listed midfielder Jackson Edwards were the Crows’ best while ruckman Reilly O’Brien was again strong. Hampton — injured early in the season — must be close to a recall to give the side some more run and creativity.
ANDREW CAPEL’S FORECAST:*Key men Taylor Walker and Rory Sloane are out for at least two more weeks so much will depend on the injury status of Brown and Seedsman, who have returned to Adelaide from Alice Springs on the injured list. The club is yet to reveal the full extent of their injuries, although Brown’s concussion is believed to be the less serious of the two. If they are ruled out of Sunday’s Adelaide Oval clash against an equally banged-up GWS, replacements will have to be found. Hampton and Otten appear the most obvious contenders to be recalled to an injury-ravaged side that will still have a host of key men sidelined.
*
Goal umpire's hilarious reaction to score review
BRISBANE LIONS
INJURIES:
Matt Eagles (abnominals) TBC
Jarrod Berry (hamstring) test
Jack Payne (Shin) 3 weeks
Sam Skinner (ACL) indefinite
Toby Wooller (Finger) 2 weeks
ON THE BLOCK:*reality TV star come AFL defender Matt Eagles has an abdominal injury and is expected to miss several weeks. Emerging midfielder Jarrod Berry also finished the game on the sidelines with hamstring tightness and will be tested later in the week. After a win over Hawthorn and a solid showing against the Swans there is unlikely to be much pressure on any players at selection.
ON THE CUSP:*The Lions need a mid-sized or perhaps another tall defender and there isn’t an obvious candidate. Chris Fagan might consider swinging Dan McStay back to defence but would be loathe given he is relishing an extended run up forward. Jacob Allison can play tall and has played senior footy this year or else it would have to be Josh Walker. If Berry is out Ryan Lester would be the ideal candidate although Brandon Starcevich could also be in line.
ANDREW HAMILTON’S FORECAST:Brisbane has produced a solid month of footy now with narrow losses to Collingwood, the Bulldogs and Sydney and an upset victory against Hawthorn. And after they matched the big-bodied Swans in contested footy on Saturday suddenly the task against the Kangaroos doesn’t seem as great. The Roos deserve favouritism but if the Lions can just improve their composure they are capable of getting their second win of the year.
Lion Matt Eagles was injured against the Swans. Pic: Getty Images
CARLTON
INJURIES:
Marc Murphy (foot) TBC
Ciaran Byrne (Quad) 3-4 weeks
Levi Casboult (Broken rib) 1-2 weeks
Sam Docherty (Knee) Season
Nick Graham (TBC) TBC
Kym Lebois (Broken collarbone) 3-4 weeks
Harrison Macreadie (Hamstring) TBC
Caleb Marchbank (Ankle) 1-2 weeks
Cillian McDaid (Foot) 1-2 weeks
Jarrod Pickett (Wrist) 4 weeks
Alex Silvagni (Achilles) 1 week
Tom Williamson (concussion) test
ON THE BLOCK:*The effort was better but one of the decisions the Blues hierarchy have to decide on is how big they go in the forward half. Harry McKay, Patrick Kerr and Charlie Curnow all kicked a goal each from minimal opportunities against the Cats. Some fringe players will have some sleepless nights leading up to selection with David Cunningham, Jed Lamb and Lochie O’Brien at the top of that list.
ON THE CUSP:*The Blues VFL team got pumped by Essendon so not a lot putting their hand up. Jack Silvagni was named best player with 23 touches and six tackles which is probably enough for a reprieve.
SCOTT GULLAN’S FORECAST:*The Blues don’t have too many options with captain Marc Murphy still a month away. Jacob Weitering needs to stay in the team despite struggling in his AFL return after six weeks in the reserves.
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Marc Murphy's bad luck continues
COLLINGWOOD
INJURIES:
Travis Varcoe (hamstring) TBC
Mason Cox (knee) TBC
Daniel Wells (rested) available
Jack Magden (broken jaw) 6 weeks
James Aish (Knee) 7-8 weeks
Tim Broomhead (Broken leg) season
Jamie Elliott (Hamstring) TBC
Alex Fasolo (Ankle) 6-7 weeks
Tyson Goldsack (Knee) season
Kayle Kirby (Heart issue) indefinite
Tom Langdon (Leg) available
Max Lynch (Ankle) test
Brayden Maynard (Ankle) test
Darcy Moore (Hamstring) TBC
Josh Smith (Hamstring) 4-5 weeks
ON THE BLOCK:*Travis Varcoe finished on the bench on Friday night with a suspected hamstring strain and will be assessed during the week. Mason Cox escaped with a $2000 fine after his report for rough conduct on Jason Johannisen, leaving him available to play this week.
ON THE CUSP:*Brayden Sier was an emergency for last Friday night’s clash with Western Bulldogs but failed to play out a VFL game on Saturday after suffering a suspected abductor injury. Callum Brown (25 disposals, 10 tackles) and Sam Murray (22 disposals, 8 marks) both had reasonable numbers in that VFL game but were not named in Collingwood’s best. Daniel Wells was rested from the AFL side last week and is likely to return.
CHRIS CAVANAGH’S FORECAST:*The Magpies are building nicely, their eight-goal-to-none second half against the Bulldogs showing what they are capable of. That was achieved despite quiet games from some of the forwards, including the returning Ben Reid who played his first game since Round 6 after battling Achilles soreness. Nathan Buckley’s side has now won six of its past eight games and will be favoured to make that seven of nine against Fremantle at the MCG on Sunday.
Mason Cox copped a $2000 fine for this high bump. Picture: Michael Klein
ESSENDON
INJURIES:
Michael Hurley (Hamstring) test
Josh Begley (Knee) season
Travis Colyer (Foot) 1-2 weeks
Joe Daniher (Groin) 3 weeks
Martin Gleeson (Ankle) 4-5 weeks
ON THE BLOCK:*Will John Worsfold tinker with a winning line-up? Patrick Ambrose (four disposals), Matt Dea (eight) and Jordan Ridley (nine) will hope not. No injuries from the trip to Spotless Stadium.
ON THE CUSP:*One of the above could be in trouble if Michael Hurley is fit to return from a hamstring issue. Essendon had another big win in the VFL with Darcy Parish picking up 29 disposals and Mitch Brown kicking four goals. Ben McNiece and Aaron Francis were both impressive across halfback.
AL PATON’S FORECAST:*The Bombers are back on track after successive wins over top-four teams from last year, setting up a huge Dreamtime at the G clash against Richmond on Saturday night. Stats guru Josh Kay noted on Twitter on Saturday night that the Bombers have won all four matches this year against 2017 finalists — and lost all six games against teams that finished outside the eight. Explain that one. Can they keep the record going?
The Dockers could be without Aaron Sandilands this weekend. Pic: Getty Images
FREMANTLE
INJURIES:
Aaron Sandilands (concussion) test
Sean Darcy (Knee) 2-3 weeks
Hugh Dixon (Ankle) 2-3 weeks
Brady Grey (Hamstring) TBC
Joel Hamling (concussion) test
Brad Hill (Knee) TBC
Lee Spurr (Knee) 1-2 weeks
Sam Switkowski (Hamstring) TBC
Matt Taberner (Foot) TBC
ON THE BLOCK:*Ruck warrior Aaron Sandilands will face a concussion test ahead of Fremantle’s clash against a resurgent Collingwood at the MCG on Sunday. Sandilands clashed heads with North Melbourne’s Sam Durdin in final term of the Dockers’ loss at Optus Stadium on Sunday and took no further part of the match. Coach Ross Lyon said post-game he would “double down” on the club’s rebuild, meaning underperforming veterans like Danyle Pearce and Hayden Ballantyne could be in the gun.
ON THE CUSP:*With Sean Darcy still injured, untried talls Scott Jones, Michael Apeness and Luke Strnadica will come into consideration should Sandilands be ruled out. Jones was an emergency for the Dockers recently, while Apeness shouldered the bulk of the ruck load for Peel Thunder at the weekend, finishing with a game-high 32 hit-outs to go with 20 disposals, seven marks and a goal. Lyon flagged a potential debut for speedster Stefan Giro (34 disposals, seven marks), with defender Taylin Duman (25 disposals, 14 marks and five tackles) also in his plans after impressing in Peel’s loss to East Fremantle on Saturday. Luckless midfielder Harley Bennell got through another game in the WAFL, while backman Griffin Logue made a successful return from a foot injury.
JORDAN McARDLE’S FORECAST:*The loss of Sandilands against North Melbourne changed the momentum of the match and showed just how important the veteran big man is to Fremantle. It’s hard to see the Dockers beating Collingwood away without their champion ruckman. Finals are looking increasingly unlikely after four losses in their past five outings, slumping to 13th with a 4-6 record. Depth is also an issue with a growing injury list and the club’s WAFL affiliate’s poor start to the season.
Ryan Abbott and Wylie Buzza are among the next big Cats in line. Picture: Peter Ristevski
GEELONG
INJURIES:
Harry Taylor (foot) TBC
Esava Ratugolea (Broken ankle) Season
Nakia Cockatoo (Knee) test
Charlie Constable (Concussion) test
Lachie Fogarty (Groin) 1-2 weeks
Cam Guthrie (Ankle) 3-4 weeks
Lachie Henderson (Knee) 4-6 weeks
Daniel Menzel (Groin) TBC
Scott Selwood (Back) test
ON THE BLOCK:*The merry-go-round in Geelong’s ruck looks like becoming a weekly event. Rhys Stanley, who came in for Zac Smith against Carlton, didn’t exactly do much to boost his case with the Cats 0-6 in centre clearances in the first quarter. The loss of Esava Ratugolea complicates the issue as he has been a revelation forward and as the back-up ruckman. Tim Kelly is an interesting case study for coach Chris Scott given his hot start to the season has fizzled out. Maybe time for a rest?
ON THE CUSP:*Ryan Abbott has been the best big man in the VFL for several weeks and has probably earnt a look given the loss of Ratugloea and the form issues with Stanley and Smith. Small forward Linc McCarthy has had a couple of games back from an extended injury spell and could be close to returning.
SCOTT GULLAN’S FORECAST:*Look for another debutant with Ryan Abbott to get his chance to be the big man the Cats are craving. Harry Taylor’s foot injury isn’t as bad as first thought so he could be back in the mix. Nakia Cockatoo is set to resume in the VFL.
Tom Lynch might be back for the Suns’ first game at Metricon for 2018. Pic: Getty Images
GOLD COAST
INJURIES:
Sam Day (suspension) available
Brayden Fiorini (leg) 2-3 weeks
Pearce Hanley (shoulder) 8 weeks
Josh Jaska (hamstring) 1 week
Jesse Joyce (quad) 1 week
Jesse Lonergan (knee) 2-3 weeks
Tom Lynch (knee) test
Darcy MacPherson (broken leg) 10 weeks
Jack Martin (illness) test
Tom Nicholls (shoulder) 10-12 weeks
Matt Rosa (hamstring) TBC
Harrison Wigg (ankle) indefinite
Mackenzie Willis (ACL) indefinite
ON THE BLOCK:*Matt Rosa did a hamstring in China and is expected to miss a month. There were no other significant injuries out of the game and the side have had the week off. Players such as Brayden Crossley, Charlie Ballard and Jack Leslie may have to make way for some returning stars but with the NEAFL side also having the bye there is unlikely to be many omitted because of form.
ON THE CUSP:*Tom Lynch is set to play his first game since Round 6 if he gets through training this week. Jack Martin, who pulled out after the warm-up against Port Adelaide with a stomach bug is also set to return while Sam Day is available after serving a one-match suspension. Other inured players such as Sean Lemmens and Brayden Fiorini may be ready to return through the NEAFL.
ANDREW HAMILTON’S FORECAST:*Some of the Suns’ best wins have come against the Cats and they will be hoping for a big effort in their first game at Metricon Stadium for the year. A much needed rest after a gruelling travel schedule should have freshened them up and the return of some senior players will also give them some confidence.
The Giants can’t wait for Toby Greene’s return. Pic: Getty Images
GWS GIANTS
INJURIES:
Phil Davis (Concussion) test
Matt de Boer (Hamstring) 2 weeks
Brett Deledio (calf) 8-10
Toby Greene (Foot) 2-3 weeks
Adam Kennedy (Knee) TBC
Tom Scully (Ankle) 7-9 weeks
Will Setterfield (Knee) season
Lachie Tiziani (Knee) season
Zac Williams (Achilles) 10-12 weeks
ON THE CUSP:*Phil Davis was slow to recover from his concussion last week but is expected to be available for Sunday’s clash with the Crows in Adelaide. However, Brett Deledio’s calf curse has struck again with the midfielder now facing 8-10 weeks on the sidelines after injuring himself while in rehab for a hamstring injury. Sam Reid was a late withdrawal with hamstring tightness and will be tested this week. Jeremy Finlayson and Isaac Cumming were both among the best players in the NEAFL win over Redland.
ON THE BLOCK:*Tim Mohr is the one who will come under pressure to hold his spot if Phil Davis returns. Dylan Buckley played will in his second game in Giants colours but will come under scrutiny for a strange “reverse headbutt” during Saturday night’s loss to the Bombers.
NEIL CORDY’S FORECAST:*Phil Davis will make a welcome return to the line-up and will certainly be needed to help contain the Crows potent forward line which includes Josh Jenkins and Tom Lynch. Tim Mohr is the most likely to make way for the co-captain. Jeremy Finlayson will also be a strong chance to play after performing well in the NEAFL.
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Roughy's hilarious self high
HAWTHORN
INJURIES:
Grant Birchall (Knee) 4 weeks
Kurt Heatherley (Achilles) 1-2 weeks
Changkuoth Jiath (Groin) 1 week
Dylan Moore (Shoulder) 1 week
Cyril Rioli (Knee) 3 weeks
ON THE BLOCK:*The Hawks just weren’t quite good enough against West Coast, but Alastair Clarkson made it clear he would continue playing a mix of kids and veterans to find his best team. And to work towards the next piece of silverware. All of Ryan Burton, James Sicily and Blake Hardwick in particular were impressive, with Mitch Lewis and Harry Morrison showing glimpses. Clarkson knows he could probably play veterans in their place but will persist nonetheless.
Jonathan Ceglar came back into the side to combat West Coast’st two ruckman and did enough to suggest Clarkson will persist with him.
ON THE CUSP:*James Cousins was concussed last week and while he improved late in the week he was eventually a late out. Cyril Rioli is likely to return after the bye, but before that the Hawks take on Port Adelaide in Tasmania. Kieran Lovell, Teia Miles and the consistent Brendan Whitecross continue to be consistent performers at VFL level.
JON RALPH’S FORECAST:*The Hawks have dropped their past two games after being 5-3, a walloping against the Lions and an honourable loss to flag contender West Coast.
At times when Jarryd Roughead and Luke Breust fire they seem to have enough firepower to take on the best, but they could manage only nine goals against the Eagles as they set up to limit the Eagles to a winning score. Still get the feeling they are a star midfielder short of A grade status, even though Jaeger O’Meara, Tom Mitchell and Liam Shiels were all good against the Eagles. Now they take on Port Adelaide in Tassie and Adelaide at home, a defining stretch for the Hawks
Jake Lever and Simon Goodwin enjoyed Alice Springs. Pic: Getty Images
MELBOURNE
INJURIES:
Dean Kent (Hamstring) 3 weeks
Corey Maynard (Hip) indefinite
Pat McKenna (Hamstring) indefinite
Aaron vandenBerg (Ankle) 4-5 weeks
Sam Weideman (Calf) TBC
ON THE BLOCK:*Ummm, who do you chop from a team that’s won its past two matches by a combined 200 points? The answer is no-one, unless Simon Goodwin thinks someone might need a rest, he wants to slightly mix things up or he can see a specific role for one of his men performing strongly at VFL level.
ON THE CUSP:*There’s a few. The Demons are flying and have several men putting their hand up at the lower grade (they must feel like they’re banging their head against a brick wall at present). Billy Stretch starred in Casey’s VFL win, while the likes of Dom Tyson, Jeff Garlett and Tom Bugg are also stuck in the magoos but pushing hard for a recall.
BEN BROAD’S FORECAST:*If you’re a Melbourne fan it might be hard not to look ahead and dream of the likely Queen’s Birthday blockbuster with the Pies, but first things first for the AFL’s hottest side. The Dees face the Western Bulldogs at Etihad Stadium on Saturday and they’ll start the warmest of favourites at a venue that once haunted them. A win can firm up their top-four position — and really set them up for the back half of the year.
Kanga Sam Durdin (right) came off second best from a big collision with Aaron Sandilands. Pic: Getty Images
NORTH MELBOURNE
INJURIES:
Sam Durdin (concussion) test
Declan Mountford (Ankle) test
Daniel Nielson (Concussion) test
Ed Vickers-Willis (Knee) season
Declan Watson (Knee) indefinite
ON THE BLOCK:*Sam Durdin (concussion) is the only injury concern from North Melbourne’s spirited win over Fremantle at Optus Stadium on Sunday. Durdin will be monitored during the week after clashing heads with Dockers ruckman Aaron Sandilands in the last quarter. It’s unlikely Brad Scott will make too many unforced changes to his well-performed side.
ON THE CUSP:*Athletic backman Majak Daw could come back in against Brisbane after being rested for the Perth trip. Several Kangaroos-listed players put their hand up in the club’s 36-point VFL win over Box Hill on Saturday. Cameron Zurhaar was lively up forward with four goals, 18 disposals and seven tackles, while Nick Larkey had a game-high five majors. Former Giant Paul Ahern continues to build form following a long-term knee injury, averaging 23.6 disposals in his past six VFL outings. Forward Nathan Hrovat was the travelling emergency against Fremantle and will come into consideration again.
JORDAN McARDLE’S FORECAST:Aside from the ladder-leading Eagles, North Melbourne has been the surprise packet of the season. Everything is going to plan for Brad Scott’s men, with a finals berth looking more likely by the week. The Roos are in fifth spot on the ladder with a 6-4 record heading into another winnable clash against the Lions at Etihad Stadium on Sunday. They then take on the Cats in Geelong before the bye.
Jack Trengove is edging closer to his first game for the Power. Picture Sarah Reed
PORT ADELAIDE
INJURIES:
Matthew Broadbent (Ankle) TBC
Willem Drew (Heel) season
Hamish Hartlett (Knee) season
Aidyn Johnson (Groin) 1 week
Jarrod Lienert (Knee) 5-6 weeks
ON THE BLOCK:*Port is coming off the bye and a good win over the Suns before that. Can’t see anyone dropping out of the side.
ON THE CUSP:*The Magpies lost their SANFL clash against North Adelaide by 79 points so there isn’t a lot of selection pressure from below. Jasper Pittard and Jack Trengove had 59 disposals between them and Lindsay Thomas kicked two goals.
AL PATON’S FORECAST:*The fight for a spot in the eight is on in earnest and Port’s spot is far from secure even with a game in hand. The next two games are huge — Hawthorn in Launceston and Richmond at Adelaide Oval. Expect Ken Hinkley to go in with the same 22 for the third week in a row.
Jake Carlisle collects Jack Riewoldt high. Pic: Getty Images
RICHMOND
INJURIES:
Jack Riewoldt (concussion) TBC
Dylan Grimes (back) test
Jason Catagna (knee soreness) test
Bachar Houli (groin) 4 weeks
Nathan Drummond (hamstring) test
Shaun Hampson (back) TBC
Dion Prestia (calf) 4-5 weeks
Shai Bolton (corked quad) test
Anthony Miles (back) test
ON THE BLOCK:*First-year small forward Jack Higgins has failed to kick a goal from his past two games (he wasn’t helped by the score review) and had limited impact against the Saints on Saturday. Bachar Houli (groin) is out until after Richmond’s Round 14 bye but Jack Riewoldt (concussion) should be OK to take on Essendon after both out the second half against St Kilda. The Tigers say they’ll monitor Riewoldt this week, the club to undergo “correct protocol”, but the full-forward joined training on Tuesday morning.
ON THE CUSP:*Corey Ellis was Richmond’s best in the VFL on Saturday with 28 disposals. In his second game back from a broken foot, Daniel Rioli stepped up his game time to record 12 disposals while Sam Lloyd (33 disposals, four goals) and Jacob Townsend (22 disposals, two goals) responded strongly after being dropped. Dylan Grimes will return after missing a week but Jason Castagna is no certainty.
CHRIS CAVANAGH’S FORECAST:*Essendon on Saturday night in the Dreamtime game will not be the easy kill it looked set to be a few weeks ago after impressive consecutive wins by the Bombers, over Geelong and GWS. The Tigers have won their past 14 games at the MCG and will still be favoured to make that 15, but it will be a tough task especially if Riewoldt misses.
The Saints might turn to veteran David Armitage as they try to find a win. Pic: Getty Images
S*T KILDA
INJURIES:
Luke Dunstan (shoulder) TBC
Brandon White (corked thigh) TBC
Nathan Freeman (shoulder) 3-4 weeks
Nathan Brown (knee) 4 weeks
Blake Acres (Groin) 4-6 weeks
Josh Bruce (Back) 2-3 weeks
Sam Gilbert (Thumb) 5-6 weeks
Ben Long (Foot) 9-12 weeks
Dylan Roberton (Heart) Season
Koby Stevens (Concussion) Season
ON THE BLOCK:*Brandon White will have to prove his fitness this week after spending a large chunk of Saturday’s match against Richmond on the bench following a bad corky. Jake Carlisle will come under scrutiny from the AFL’s match review officer after being reported for his hit on Jack Riewoldt which left the Tigers’ forward concussed.
ON THE CUSP:*Veteran David Armitage was a standout for Sandringham in the VFL on Sunday, responding from being dropped with 39 disposals and 10 tackles. Injury-cursed defender Hugh Goddard could also be in line for his first AFL game in two years after also impressing with 15 disposals and seven marks in that match.
CHRIS CAVANAGH’S FORECAST:*The Saints’ execution, and goalkicking, against Richmond was better but they let one slip by being overrun in the second half by a Tigers’ side which had just two fit players on the bench. It does not get any easier this week with a trip to Perth to take on a West Coast side which has won nine on the trot. That could get very ugly if St Kilda is even a little bit off.
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Koby Stevens puts health first after doomed 2018 season
SYDNEY SWANS
INJURIES:
Callum Mills (broken foot) Season
Sam Naismith (Knee) Season
Zak Jones (Head knock) Test
Lewis Melican (Hamstring) Test
James Bell (Hamstring) 1 week
Jake Brown (Shoulder) 1 week
Jordan Dawson (Quad) 1 week|
Jordan Foote (Toe) 1 week
Alex Johnson (Groin) 1 week
Sam Reid (Quad) 6-8 weeks
ON THE BLOCK:*The slippery and wet conditions didn’t suit Tom McCartin, who had little impact against the Lions. He could be given a chance to go back to the NEAFL and build up some form.
ON THE CUSP:*The Swans’ depth is starting to improve with Dan Robinson, Nic Newman, Robbie Fox and Dean Towers all among the best the reserves win over Brisbane in the NEAFL. Lewis Melican is also due to return this week from a hamstring strain.
NEIL CORDY’S FORECAST:*The Swans are travelling well at 7-3 after a challenging start to the year. Lance Franklin’s absence with a bruised heel has been a blessing in disguise allowing Will Hayward and Ben Ronke to develop in his absence. Tom McCartin may lose his spot this week to Dean Towers, who played well in the NEAFL.
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Masten's 'Aker' celebration
WEST COAST
INJURIES:
Eric Mackenzie (Toe) 3-4 weeks
Daniel Venables (Ankle) 5-6 weeks
Liam Ryan (Ankle) 4 weeks
Hamish Brayshaw (Knee) 3 weeks
Luke Shuey (Hamstring) test
ON THE BLOCK:*West Coast marched on with their ninth straight win, just the kind of victory they need to prove their road credentials. Willie Rioli’s bum tap will likely be played out at the tribunal but it seems unlikely he would be suspended for minimal umpire contact with Ray Chamberlain. Apart from that, Adam Simpson flagged some sore players, with Nic Naitanui (back), Elliot Yeo (knee) and Chris Masten (hamstring) carrying niggles.
So there is a chance they might be rested next week against St Kilda to give them a fortnight’s rest. Luke Shuey is almost ready to come back from a hamstring issue. Pre-game the feeling was he wouldn’t be risked the last game before the bye.
But Adam Simpson says if he misses next week when ready as a precaution his absence will stretch to well over a month. So if he’s right to go, they will play him.
ON THE CUSP:*Asked about high draft picks Jarrod Brander and Oscar Allen, Simpson said they were playing solid footy for East Perth. Given there are no key position injuries, they might have to wait a week or two but they are clearly in the selection frame.
JON RALPH’S FORECAST:*The Eagles are in a perfect spot, able to rest sore players and with young kids waiting in the wings. They should be able to knock off St Kilda at home and then hit the bye at 11-1. If they rest a few players like Yeo and Naitanui, they will be perfectly placed to attack the second half of the year after the bye in scintillating form and with a minimal injury list. Liam Ryan isn’t too far away with his own injury issues either.
The signs are getting better for veteran Bulldog Liam Picken. Pic: Getty Images
WESTERN BULLDOGS
INJURIES:
Zaine Cordy (concussion) TBC
Kieran Collings (ankle) 1-2 weeks
Tim English (foot) 3 weeks
Tom Liberatore (knee) season
Brad Lynch (hamstring) 1 week
Aaron Naughton (ankle) 1 week
Liam Picken (concussion) indefinite
Jack Redpath (knee) 9 weeks
Clay Smith (knee) 3 weeks
ON THE BLOCK:*Zaine Cordy sat out the second half after experiencing a bout of delayed concussion. Mystery surrounds when the Bulldogs defender actually copped a knock to the head but the 21-year-old was unable to play out the game. Josh Schache was OK early but like a lot of his teammates faded after quarter-time. Hayden Crozier and Patrick Lipinski only played bit-part roles for the disappointing Dogs.
ON THE CUSP:*Lukas Webb and Mitch Wallis were among the best in Footscray’s loss to Collingwood, while Mitch Honeychurch and Fletcher Roberts booted two goals apiece. Veteran Dale Morris got through his second VFL game, while Aaron Naughton (foot) could press for selection with a solid week on the track.
GILBERT GARDINER’S FORECAST:Buckle up, Bulldogs. There is more pain to come. We have seen what Melbourne is capable of doing to battler teams and for the time being that is exactly what the Bulldogs are dishing up. The bye (Round 12) can’t come quick enough for the Dogs after back-to-back losses. With Redpath injured, a question mark over Schache and Tom Boyd’s best being in the ruck, where are the goals going to come from?
Herald Sun
8 minutes ago
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RICHMOND’S dream run with injuries is over with two premiership stars out until at least Round 15.
Bachar Houli, who hurt his groin during Saturday’s win against St Kilda, and Dion Prestia, who hasn’t played since Round 7, have both been ruled out until after the Tigers’ bye.
SEE EVERY CLUB’S INJURY LIST BELOW
“Dion’s injury, initially, we thought was sort of more on the minor end and it would only be a week or so,” Richmond physical performance boss Peter Burge said.
“It took a little bit longer to settle down, as to where we thought it would. He started running a week and a half ago and did a good week of conditioning last week. He’s just at that point now where we can’t quite progress back into skills.”
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It has left the midfielder in “a holding pattern” for now.
“We’ve had to revise our time-line a bit, but given Dion’s pre-season, and some of the interruptions he’s had, we want to make absolutely sure he’s right for the second half of the year. So we are being cautious.”
In better news, Jack Riewoldt trained at Punt Rd on Tuesday morning as he faces more concussion tests.
Riewoldt suffered concussion in Saturday’s win over St Kilda with the Saints to decide in the next two hours whether to challenge Jake Carlisle’s two-match ban.
The Tigers premiership star appeared in good spirits today but no call on his Dreamtime at the G chances will be made for at least another 48 hours.
ADELAIDE
INJURIES:
Luke Brown (concussion) test
Andrew McPherson (groin) 1 week
Taylor Walker (glute/back) 2-3 weeks
Riley Knight (hamstring tendinitis) 2-3 weeks
Rory Sloane (foot) 2-3 weeks
Brad Crouch (groin soreness) TC
Mitch McGovern (ankle) 6-7 weeks
Paul Hunter (ankle)9-10 weeks
Paul Seedsman (adductor) TBC
Brodie Smith (knee) indefinite
ON THE BLOCK:*Is anyone safe after the Melbourne debacle? The 91-point loss to the Demons in Alice Springs was easily the Crows’ biggest margin of defeat in the Don Pyke coaching era, eclipsing the 59 points they lost to against North Melbourne in Tasmania in Round 7 last year. Young players Myles Poholke (nine disposals), who came into the side on Sunday as a late replacement for Paul Seedsman — who hurt his adductor muscle in the pre-game warm-up — and Jordan Gallucci (seven possessions) would be under serious pressure to retain their spots. But defenders Jake Kelly (nine touches) and Kyle Hartigan (10) also failed to fire on what was a rare shocking day for the club.
ON THE CUSP:*Adelaide’s long injury list is not only hurting it at AFL level but also in the SANFL. The Crows remain the only winless team in the State League competition after falling to West Adelaide by 69 points at Richmond Oval on Saturday. Young midfielder Matthew Signorello, veteran utility Andy Otten, hard-running onballer Curtly Hampton (three goals, 23 disposals) and rookie-listed midfielder Jackson Edwards were the Crows’ best while ruckman Reilly O’Brien was again strong. Hampton — injured early in the season — must be close to a recall to give the side some more run and creativity.
ANDREW CAPEL’S FORECAST:*Key men Taylor Walker and Rory Sloane are out for at least two more weeks so much will depend on the injury status of Brown and Seedsman, who have returned to Adelaide from Alice Springs on the injured list. The club is yet to reveal the full extent of their injuries, although Brown’s concussion is believed to be the less serious of the two. If they are ruled out of Sunday’s Adelaide Oval clash against an equally banged-up GWS, replacements will have to be found. Hampton and Otten appear the most obvious contenders to be recalled to an injury-ravaged side that will still have a host of key men sidelined.
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Goal umpire's hilarious reaction to score review
BRISBANE LIONS
INJURIES:
Matt Eagles (abnominals) TBC
Jarrod Berry (hamstring) test
Jack Payne (Shin) 3 weeks
Sam Skinner (ACL) indefinite
Toby Wooller (Finger) 2 weeks
ON THE BLOCK:*reality TV star come AFL defender Matt Eagles has an abdominal injury and is expected to miss several weeks. Emerging midfielder Jarrod Berry also finished the game on the sidelines with hamstring tightness and will be tested later in the week. After a win over Hawthorn and a solid showing against the Swans there is unlikely to be much pressure on any players at selection.
ON THE CUSP:*The Lions need a mid-sized or perhaps another tall defender and there isn’t an obvious candidate. Chris Fagan might consider swinging Dan McStay back to defence but would be loathe given he is relishing an extended run up forward. Jacob Allison can play tall and has played senior footy this year or else it would have to be Josh Walker. If Berry is out Ryan Lester would be the ideal candidate although Brandon Starcevich could also be in line.
ANDREW HAMILTON’S FORECAST:Brisbane has produced a solid month of footy now with narrow losses to Collingwood, the Bulldogs and Sydney and an upset victory against Hawthorn. And after they matched the big-bodied Swans in contested footy on Saturday suddenly the task against the Kangaroos doesn’t seem as great. The Roos deserve favouritism but if the Lions can just improve their composure they are capable of getting their second win of the year.
Lion Matt Eagles was injured against the Swans. Pic: Getty Images
CARLTON
INJURIES:
Marc Murphy (foot) TBC
Ciaran Byrne (Quad) 3-4 weeks
Levi Casboult (Broken rib) 1-2 weeks
Sam Docherty (Knee) Season
Nick Graham (TBC) TBC
Kym Lebois (Broken collarbone) 3-4 weeks
Harrison Macreadie (Hamstring) TBC
Caleb Marchbank (Ankle) 1-2 weeks
Cillian McDaid (Foot) 1-2 weeks
Jarrod Pickett (Wrist) 4 weeks
Alex Silvagni (Achilles) 1 week
Tom Williamson (concussion) test
ON THE BLOCK:*The effort was better but one of the decisions the Blues hierarchy have to decide on is how big they go in the forward half. Harry McKay, Patrick Kerr and Charlie Curnow all kicked a goal each from minimal opportunities against the Cats. Some fringe players will have some sleepless nights leading up to selection with David Cunningham, Jed Lamb and Lochie O’Brien at the top of that list.
ON THE CUSP:*The Blues VFL team got pumped by Essendon so not a lot putting their hand up. Jack Silvagni was named best player with 23 touches and six tackles which is probably enough for a reprieve.
SCOTT GULLAN’S FORECAST:*The Blues don’t have too many options with captain Marc Murphy still a month away. Jacob Weitering needs to stay in the team despite struggling in his AFL return after six weeks in the reserves.
*
Marc Murphy's bad luck continues
COLLINGWOOD
INJURIES:
Travis Varcoe (hamstring) TBC
Mason Cox (knee) TBC
Daniel Wells (rested) available
Jack Magden (broken jaw) 6 weeks
James Aish (Knee) 7-8 weeks
Tim Broomhead (Broken leg) season
Jamie Elliott (Hamstring) TBC
Alex Fasolo (Ankle) 6-7 weeks
Tyson Goldsack (Knee) season
Kayle Kirby (Heart issue) indefinite
Tom Langdon (Leg) available
Max Lynch (Ankle) test
Brayden Maynard (Ankle) test
Darcy Moore (Hamstring) TBC
Josh Smith (Hamstring) 4-5 weeks
ON THE BLOCK:*Travis Varcoe finished on the bench on Friday night with a suspected hamstring strain and will be assessed during the week. Mason Cox escaped with a $2000 fine after his report for rough conduct on Jason Johannisen, leaving him available to play this week.
ON THE CUSP:*Brayden Sier was an emergency for last Friday night’s clash with Western Bulldogs but failed to play out a VFL game on Saturday after suffering a suspected abductor injury. Callum Brown (25 disposals, 10 tackles) and Sam Murray (22 disposals, 8 marks) both had reasonable numbers in that VFL game but were not named in Collingwood’s best. Daniel Wells was rested from the AFL side last week and is likely to return.
CHRIS CAVANAGH’S FORECAST:*The Magpies are building nicely, their eight-goal-to-none second half against the Bulldogs showing what they are capable of. That was achieved despite quiet games from some of the forwards, including the returning Ben Reid who played his first game since Round 6 after battling Achilles soreness. Nathan Buckley’s side has now won six of its past eight games and will be favoured to make that seven of nine against Fremantle at the MCG on Sunday.
Mason Cox copped a $2000 fine for this high bump. Picture: Michael Klein
ESSENDON
INJURIES:
Michael Hurley (Hamstring) test
Josh Begley (Knee) season
Travis Colyer (Foot) 1-2 weeks
Joe Daniher (Groin) 3 weeks
Martin Gleeson (Ankle) 4-5 weeks
ON THE BLOCK:*Will John Worsfold tinker with a winning line-up? Patrick Ambrose (four disposals), Matt Dea (eight) and Jordan Ridley (nine) will hope not. No injuries from the trip to Spotless Stadium.
ON THE CUSP:*One of the above could be in trouble if Michael Hurley is fit to return from a hamstring issue. Essendon had another big win in the VFL with Darcy Parish picking up 29 disposals and Mitch Brown kicking four goals. Ben McNiece and Aaron Francis were both impressive across halfback.
AL PATON’S FORECAST:*The Bombers are back on track after successive wins over top-four teams from last year, setting up a huge Dreamtime at the G clash against Richmond on Saturday night. Stats guru Josh Kay noted on Twitter on Saturday night that the Bombers have won all four matches this year against 2017 finalists — and lost all six games against teams that finished outside the eight. Explain that one. Can they keep the record going?
The Dockers could be without Aaron Sandilands this weekend. Pic: Getty Images
FREMANTLE
INJURIES:
Aaron Sandilands (concussion) test
Sean Darcy (Knee) 2-3 weeks
Hugh Dixon (Ankle) 2-3 weeks
Brady Grey (Hamstring) TBC
Joel Hamling (concussion) test
Brad Hill (Knee) TBC
Lee Spurr (Knee) 1-2 weeks
Sam Switkowski (Hamstring) TBC
Matt Taberner (Foot) TBC
ON THE BLOCK:*Ruck warrior Aaron Sandilands will face a concussion test ahead of Fremantle’s clash against a resurgent Collingwood at the MCG on Sunday. Sandilands clashed heads with North Melbourne’s Sam Durdin in final term of the Dockers’ loss at Optus Stadium on Sunday and took no further part of the match. Coach Ross Lyon said post-game he would “double down” on the club’s rebuild, meaning underperforming veterans like Danyle Pearce and Hayden Ballantyne could be in the gun.
ON THE CUSP:*With Sean Darcy still injured, untried talls Scott Jones, Michael Apeness and Luke Strnadica will come into consideration should Sandilands be ruled out. Jones was an emergency for the Dockers recently, while Apeness shouldered the bulk of the ruck load for Peel Thunder at the weekend, finishing with a game-high 32 hit-outs to go with 20 disposals, seven marks and a goal. Lyon flagged a potential debut for speedster Stefan Giro (34 disposals, seven marks), with defender Taylin Duman (25 disposals, 14 marks and five tackles) also in his plans after impressing in Peel’s loss to East Fremantle on Saturday. Luckless midfielder Harley Bennell got through another game in the WAFL, while backman Griffin Logue made a successful return from a foot injury.
JORDAN McARDLE’S FORECAST:*The loss of Sandilands against North Melbourne changed the momentum of the match and showed just how important the veteran big man is to Fremantle. It’s hard to see the Dockers beating Collingwood away without their champion ruckman. Finals are looking increasingly unlikely after four losses in their past five outings, slumping to 13th with a 4-6 record. Depth is also an issue with a growing injury list and the club’s WAFL affiliate’s poor start to the season.
Ryan Abbott and Wylie Buzza are among the next big Cats in line. Picture: Peter Ristevski
GEELONG
INJURIES:
Harry Taylor (foot) TBC
Esava Ratugolea (Broken ankle) Season
Nakia Cockatoo (Knee) test
Charlie Constable (Concussion) test
Lachie Fogarty (Groin) 1-2 weeks
Cam Guthrie (Ankle) 3-4 weeks
Lachie Henderson (Knee) 4-6 weeks
Daniel Menzel (Groin) TBC
Scott Selwood (Back) test
ON THE BLOCK:*The merry-go-round in Geelong’s ruck looks like becoming a weekly event. Rhys Stanley, who came in for Zac Smith against Carlton, didn’t exactly do much to boost his case with the Cats 0-6 in centre clearances in the first quarter. The loss of Esava Ratugolea complicates the issue as he has been a revelation forward and as the back-up ruckman. Tim Kelly is an interesting case study for coach Chris Scott given his hot start to the season has fizzled out. Maybe time for a rest?
ON THE CUSP:*Ryan Abbott has been the best big man in the VFL for several weeks and has probably earnt a look given the loss of Ratugloea and the form issues with Stanley and Smith. Small forward Linc McCarthy has had a couple of games back from an extended injury spell and could be close to returning.
SCOTT GULLAN’S FORECAST:*Look for another debutant with Ryan Abbott to get his chance to be the big man the Cats are craving. Harry Taylor’s foot injury isn’t as bad as first thought so he could be back in the mix. Nakia Cockatoo is set to resume in the VFL.
Tom Lynch might be back for the Suns’ first game at Metricon for 2018. Pic: Getty Images
GOLD COAST
INJURIES:
Sam Day (suspension) available
Brayden Fiorini (leg) 2-3 weeks
Pearce Hanley (shoulder) 8 weeks
Josh Jaska (hamstring) 1 week
Jesse Joyce (quad) 1 week
Jesse Lonergan (knee) 2-3 weeks
Tom Lynch (knee) test
Darcy MacPherson (broken leg) 10 weeks
Jack Martin (illness) test
Tom Nicholls (shoulder) 10-12 weeks
Matt Rosa (hamstring) TBC
Harrison Wigg (ankle) indefinite
Mackenzie Willis (ACL) indefinite
ON THE BLOCK:*Matt Rosa did a hamstring in China and is expected to miss a month. There were no other significant injuries out of the game and the side have had the week off. Players such as Brayden Crossley, Charlie Ballard and Jack Leslie may have to make way for some returning stars but with the NEAFL side also having the bye there is unlikely to be many omitted because of form.
ON THE CUSP:*Tom Lynch is set to play his first game since Round 6 if he gets through training this week. Jack Martin, who pulled out after the warm-up against Port Adelaide with a stomach bug is also set to return while Sam Day is available after serving a one-match suspension. Other inured players such as Sean Lemmens and Brayden Fiorini may be ready to return through the NEAFL.
ANDREW HAMILTON’S FORECAST:*Some of the Suns’ best wins have come against the Cats and they will be hoping for a big effort in their first game at Metricon Stadium for the year. A much needed rest after a gruelling travel schedule should have freshened them up and the return of some senior players will also give them some confidence.
The Giants can’t wait for Toby Greene’s return. Pic: Getty Images
GWS GIANTS
INJURIES:
Phil Davis (Concussion) test
Matt de Boer (Hamstring) 2 weeks
Brett Deledio (calf) 8-10
Toby Greene (Foot) 2-3 weeks
Adam Kennedy (Knee) TBC
Tom Scully (Ankle) 7-9 weeks
Will Setterfield (Knee) season
Lachie Tiziani (Knee) season
Zac Williams (Achilles) 10-12 weeks
ON THE CUSP:*Phil Davis was slow to recover from his concussion last week but is expected to be available for Sunday’s clash with the Crows in Adelaide. However, Brett Deledio’s calf curse has struck again with the midfielder now facing 8-10 weeks on the sidelines after injuring himself while in rehab for a hamstring injury. Sam Reid was a late withdrawal with hamstring tightness and will be tested this week. Jeremy Finlayson and Isaac Cumming were both among the best players in the NEAFL win over Redland.
ON THE BLOCK:*Tim Mohr is the one who will come under pressure to hold his spot if Phil Davis returns. Dylan Buckley played will in his second game in Giants colours but will come under scrutiny for a strange “reverse headbutt” during Saturday night’s loss to the Bombers.
NEIL CORDY’S FORECAST:*Phil Davis will make a welcome return to the line-up and will certainly be needed to help contain the Crows potent forward line which includes Josh Jenkins and Tom Lynch. Tim Mohr is the most likely to make way for the co-captain. Jeremy Finlayson will also be a strong chance to play after performing well in the NEAFL.
*
Roughy's hilarious self high
HAWTHORN
INJURIES:
Grant Birchall (Knee) 4 weeks
Kurt Heatherley (Achilles) 1-2 weeks
Changkuoth Jiath (Groin) 1 week
Dylan Moore (Shoulder) 1 week
Cyril Rioli (Knee) 3 weeks
ON THE BLOCK:*The Hawks just weren’t quite good enough against West Coast, but Alastair Clarkson made it clear he would continue playing a mix of kids and veterans to find his best team. And to work towards the next piece of silverware. All of Ryan Burton, James Sicily and Blake Hardwick in particular were impressive, with Mitch Lewis and Harry Morrison showing glimpses. Clarkson knows he could probably play veterans in their place but will persist nonetheless.
Jonathan Ceglar came back into the side to combat West Coast’st two ruckman and did enough to suggest Clarkson will persist with him.
ON THE CUSP:*James Cousins was concussed last week and while he improved late in the week he was eventually a late out. Cyril Rioli is likely to return after the bye, but before that the Hawks take on Port Adelaide in Tasmania. Kieran Lovell, Teia Miles and the consistent Brendan Whitecross continue to be consistent performers at VFL level.
JON RALPH’S FORECAST:*The Hawks have dropped their past two games after being 5-3, a walloping against the Lions and an honourable loss to flag contender West Coast.
At times when Jarryd Roughead and Luke Breust fire they seem to have enough firepower to take on the best, but they could manage only nine goals against the Eagles as they set up to limit the Eagles to a winning score. Still get the feeling they are a star midfielder short of A grade status, even though Jaeger O’Meara, Tom Mitchell and Liam Shiels were all good against the Eagles. Now they take on Port Adelaide in Tassie and Adelaide at home, a defining stretch for the Hawks
Jake Lever and Simon Goodwin enjoyed Alice Springs. Pic: Getty Images
MELBOURNE
INJURIES:
Dean Kent (Hamstring) 3 weeks
Corey Maynard (Hip) indefinite
Pat McKenna (Hamstring) indefinite
Aaron vandenBerg (Ankle) 4-5 weeks
Sam Weideman (Calf) TBC
ON THE BLOCK:*Ummm, who do you chop from a team that’s won its past two matches by a combined 200 points? The answer is no-one, unless Simon Goodwin thinks someone might need a rest, he wants to slightly mix things up or he can see a specific role for one of his men performing strongly at VFL level.
ON THE CUSP:*There’s a few. The Demons are flying and have several men putting their hand up at the lower grade (they must feel like they’re banging their head against a brick wall at present). Billy Stretch starred in Casey’s VFL win, while the likes of Dom Tyson, Jeff Garlett and Tom Bugg are also stuck in the magoos but pushing hard for a recall.
BEN BROAD’S FORECAST:*If you’re a Melbourne fan it might be hard not to look ahead and dream of the likely Queen’s Birthday blockbuster with the Pies, but first things first for the AFL’s hottest side. The Dees face the Western Bulldogs at Etihad Stadium on Saturday and they’ll start the warmest of favourites at a venue that once haunted them. A win can firm up their top-four position — and really set them up for the back half of the year.
Kanga Sam Durdin (right) came off second best from a big collision with Aaron Sandilands. Pic: Getty Images
NORTH MELBOURNE
INJURIES:
Sam Durdin (concussion) test
Declan Mountford (Ankle) test
Daniel Nielson (Concussion) test
Ed Vickers-Willis (Knee) season
Declan Watson (Knee) indefinite
ON THE BLOCK:*Sam Durdin (concussion) is the only injury concern from North Melbourne’s spirited win over Fremantle at Optus Stadium on Sunday. Durdin will be monitored during the week after clashing heads with Dockers ruckman Aaron Sandilands in the last quarter. It’s unlikely Brad Scott will make too many unforced changes to his well-performed side.
ON THE CUSP:*Athletic backman Majak Daw could come back in against Brisbane after being rested for the Perth trip. Several Kangaroos-listed players put their hand up in the club’s 36-point VFL win over Box Hill on Saturday. Cameron Zurhaar was lively up forward with four goals, 18 disposals and seven tackles, while Nick Larkey had a game-high five majors. Former Giant Paul Ahern continues to build form following a long-term knee injury, averaging 23.6 disposals in his past six VFL outings. Forward Nathan Hrovat was the travelling emergency against Fremantle and will come into consideration again.
JORDAN McARDLE’S FORECAST:Aside from the ladder-leading Eagles, North Melbourne has been the surprise packet of the season. Everything is going to plan for Brad Scott’s men, with a finals berth looking more likely by the week. The Roos are in fifth spot on the ladder with a 6-4 record heading into another winnable clash against the Lions at Etihad Stadium on Sunday. They then take on the Cats in Geelong before the bye.
Jack Trengove is edging closer to his first game for the Power. Picture Sarah Reed
PORT ADELAIDE
INJURIES:
Matthew Broadbent (Ankle) TBC
Willem Drew (Heel) season
Hamish Hartlett (Knee) season
Aidyn Johnson (Groin) 1 week
Jarrod Lienert (Knee) 5-6 weeks
ON THE BLOCK:*Port is coming off the bye and a good win over the Suns before that. Can’t see anyone dropping out of the side.
ON THE CUSP:*The Magpies lost their SANFL clash against North Adelaide by 79 points so there isn’t a lot of selection pressure from below. Jasper Pittard and Jack Trengove had 59 disposals between them and Lindsay Thomas kicked two goals.
AL PATON’S FORECAST:*The fight for a spot in the eight is on in earnest and Port’s spot is far from secure even with a game in hand. The next two games are huge — Hawthorn in Launceston and Richmond at Adelaide Oval. Expect Ken Hinkley to go in with the same 22 for the third week in a row.
Jake Carlisle collects Jack Riewoldt high. Pic: Getty Images
RICHMOND
INJURIES:
Jack Riewoldt (concussion) TBC
Dylan Grimes (back) test
Jason Catagna (knee soreness) test
Bachar Houli (groin) 4 weeks
Nathan Drummond (hamstring) test
Shaun Hampson (back) TBC
Dion Prestia (calf) 4-5 weeks
Shai Bolton (corked quad) test
Anthony Miles (back) test
ON THE BLOCK:*First-year small forward Jack Higgins has failed to kick a goal from his past two games (he wasn’t helped by the score review) and had limited impact against the Saints on Saturday. Bachar Houli (groin) is out until after Richmond’s Round 14 bye but Jack Riewoldt (concussion) should be OK to take on Essendon after both out the second half against St Kilda. The Tigers say they’ll monitor Riewoldt this week, the club to undergo “correct protocol”, but the full-forward joined training on Tuesday morning.
ON THE CUSP:*Corey Ellis was Richmond’s best in the VFL on Saturday with 28 disposals. In his second game back from a broken foot, Daniel Rioli stepped up his game time to record 12 disposals while Sam Lloyd (33 disposals, four goals) and Jacob Townsend (22 disposals, two goals) responded strongly after being dropped. Dylan Grimes will return after missing a week but Jason Castagna is no certainty.
CHRIS CAVANAGH’S FORECAST:*Essendon on Saturday night in the Dreamtime game will not be the easy kill it looked set to be a few weeks ago after impressive consecutive wins by the Bombers, over Geelong and GWS. The Tigers have won their past 14 games at the MCG and will still be favoured to make that 15, but it will be a tough task especially if Riewoldt misses.
The Saints might turn to veteran David Armitage as they try to find a win. Pic: Getty Images
S*T KILDA
INJURIES:
Luke Dunstan (shoulder) TBC
Brandon White (corked thigh) TBC
Nathan Freeman (shoulder) 3-4 weeks
Nathan Brown (knee) 4 weeks
Blake Acres (Groin) 4-6 weeks
Josh Bruce (Back) 2-3 weeks
Sam Gilbert (Thumb) 5-6 weeks
Ben Long (Foot) 9-12 weeks
Dylan Roberton (Heart) Season
Koby Stevens (Concussion) Season
ON THE BLOCK:*Brandon White will have to prove his fitness this week after spending a large chunk of Saturday’s match against Richmond on the bench following a bad corky. Jake Carlisle will come under scrutiny from the AFL’s match review officer after being reported for his hit on Jack Riewoldt which left the Tigers’ forward concussed.
ON THE CUSP:*Veteran David Armitage was a standout for Sandringham in the VFL on Sunday, responding from being dropped with 39 disposals and 10 tackles. Injury-cursed defender Hugh Goddard could also be in line for his first AFL game in two years after also impressing with 15 disposals and seven marks in that match.
CHRIS CAVANAGH’S FORECAST:*The Saints’ execution, and goalkicking, against Richmond was better but they let one slip by being overrun in the second half by a Tigers’ side which had just two fit players on the bench. It does not get any easier this week with a trip to Perth to take on a West Coast side which has won nine on the trot. That could get very ugly if St Kilda is even a little bit off.
*
Koby Stevens puts health first after doomed 2018 season
SYDNEY SWANS
INJURIES:
Callum Mills (broken foot) Season
Sam Naismith (Knee) Season
Zak Jones (Head knock) Test
Lewis Melican (Hamstring) Test
James Bell (Hamstring) 1 week
Jake Brown (Shoulder) 1 week
Jordan Dawson (Quad) 1 week|
Jordan Foote (Toe) 1 week
Alex Johnson (Groin) 1 week
Sam Reid (Quad) 6-8 weeks
ON THE BLOCK:*The slippery and wet conditions didn’t suit Tom McCartin, who had little impact against the Lions. He could be given a chance to go back to the NEAFL and build up some form.
ON THE CUSP:*The Swans’ depth is starting to improve with Dan Robinson, Nic Newman, Robbie Fox and Dean Towers all among the best the reserves win over Brisbane in the NEAFL. Lewis Melican is also due to return this week from a hamstring strain.
NEIL CORDY’S FORECAST:*The Swans are travelling well at 7-3 after a challenging start to the year. Lance Franklin’s absence with a bruised heel has been a blessing in disguise allowing Will Hayward and Ben Ronke to develop in his absence. Tom McCartin may lose his spot this week to Dean Towers, who played well in the NEAFL.
*
Masten's 'Aker' celebration
WEST COAST
INJURIES:
Eric Mackenzie (Toe) 3-4 weeks
Daniel Venables (Ankle) 5-6 weeks
Liam Ryan (Ankle) 4 weeks
Hamish Brayshaw (Knee) 3 weeks
Luke Shuey (Hamstring) test
ON THE BLOCK:*West Coast marched on with their ninth straight win, just the kind of victory they need to prove their road credentials. Willie Rioli’s bum tap will likely be played out at the tribunal but it seems unlikely he would be suspended for minimal umpire contact with Ray Chamberlain. Apart from that, Adam Simpson flagged some sore players, with Nic Naitanui (back), Elliot Yeo (knee) and Chris Masten (hamstring) carrying niggles.
So there is a chance they might be rested next week against St Kilda to give them a fortnight’s rest. Luke Shuey is almost ready to come back from a hamstring issue. Pre-game the feeling was he wouldn’t be risked the last game before the bye.
But Adam Simpson says if he misses next week when ready as a precaution his absence will stretch to well over a month. So if he’s right to go, they will play him.
ON THE CUSP:*Asked about high draft picks Jarrod Brander and Oscar Allen, Simpson said they were playing solid footy for East Perth. Given there are no key position injuries, they might have to wait a week or two but they are clearly in the selection frame.
JON RALPH’S FORECAST:*The Eagles are in a perfect spot, able to rest sore players and with young kids waiting in the wings. They should be able to knock off St Kilda at home and then hit the bye at 11-1. If they rest a few players like Yeo and Naitanui, they will be perfectly placed to attack the second half of the year after the bye in scintillating form and with a minimal injury list. Liam Ryan isn’t too far away with his own injury issues either.
The signs are getting better for veteran Bulldog Liam Picken. Pic: Getty Images
WESTERN BULLDOGS
INJURIES:
Zaine Cordy (concussion) TBC
Kieran Collings (ankle) 1-2 weeks
Tim English (foot) 3 weeks
Tom Liberatore (knee) season
Brad Lynch (hamstring) 1 week
Aaron Naughton (ankle) 1 week
Liam Picken (concussion) indefinite
Jack Redpath (knee) 9 weeks
Clay Smith (knee) 3 weeks
ON THE BLOCK:*Zaine Cordy sat out the second half after experiencing a bout of delayed concussion. Mystery surrounds when the Bulldogs defender actually copped a knock to the head but the 21-year-old was unable to play out the game. Josh Schache was OK early but like a lot of his teammates faded after quarter-time. Hayden Crozier and Patrick Lipinski only played bit-part roles for the disappointing Dogs.
ON THE CUSP:*Lukas Webb and Mitch Wallis were among the best in Footscray’s loss to Collingwood, while Mitch Honeychurch and Fletcher Roberts booted two goals apiece. Veteran Dale Morris got through his second VFL game, while Aaron Naughton (foot) could press for selection with a solid week on the track.
GILBERT GARDINER’S FORECAST:Buckle up, Bulldogs. There is more pain to come. We have seen what Melbourne is capable of doing to battler teams and for the time being that is exactly what the Bulldogs are dishing up. The bye (Round 12) can’t come quick enough for the Dogs after back-to-back losses. With Redpath injured, a question mark over Schache and Tom Boyd’s best being in the ruck, where are the goals going to come from?
SuperCoach Rookie Bible: Which cheapies to keep and who to trade before Round 11
Tim Michell, Herald Sun
May 29, 2018 1:35pm
Subscriber only
RELIABLE cash cows are worth their weight in gold in SuperCoach and it makes those who have delivered hefty price rises difficult to part with.
No player has enjoyed the profit of Geelong midfielder Tim Kelly this year, but the time has come for his owners to pull the trigger and move him on.
TRADE TIPS:*SIX CUT PRICE STARS YOU NEED TO KNOW
BARGAINS:*THE PHANTOM’S ROUND 10 REVIEW
RAGE TRADES:*TIME TO ROCKLIFF AND ROLL
After only one score below 89 to Round 8, Kelly has posted 48 and 57 in the past two weeks, totals which have caused his break-even to skyrocket to 136.
He lost $28,000 at the weekend and his price will plummet below $400,000 again after this weekend.
You only need a bank of $80,000 to turn him into Dustin Martin in one trade, while Port Adelaide skipper Travis Boak is slightly more expensive than Dusty and will carry you through the byes.
Bayley Fritsch, Tom Doedee and the returning Nick Holman will continue to make money, so hold off trading them if you can.
Here’s all the information you need to know about this week’s popular cash cows and bubble boys.
CASH COWSTRADE NOW
Tim Kelly ($401,700, MID) — 57 points Breakeven: 136
Kelly has been the cash cow of 2018 but his price is falling quickly and the value he accumulated risks going up in smoke. He still has enough currency to be turned into a fallen premium or you could make $280,000 to sit on for the bye rounds by cashing him in to Melbourne’s Tim Smith (via a mid-forward like Jack Higgins or Charlie Spargo).
Billy Gowers ($274,600, FWD) — 49 points Breakeven: 71
Gowers lost $8000 on Friday and risks dropping further in value with his break-even now well above his season average. He’s risen more than $150,000 from his initial value and would be a perfect downgrade to Smith (more on him below).
Jack Higgins ($280,400, FWD-MID) — 51 points Breakeven: 66
Higgins is just doing enough to hold his place in the Tigers’ team, but with the bye rounds looming large he has all but exhausted his cash generation. You could afford to back him in for one more week, but move him on if there’s a better option to push your side closer to full premium status.
Jack Higgins has failed to kick a snag in his past two matches.
Cameron Rayner ($263,900, FWD-MID) — 35 points Breakeven: 68
How much more profit can you afford to have the No. 1 draft pick lose? It’s a question more than 35,000 coaches will ask this week and a double downgrade featuring him and Tim Kelly to build a huge bank before the byes could be a sound strategy.
Jake Waterman ($310,700, FWD) — 49 points Breakeven: 85
Unless you’re holding Waterman to benefit you during the bye rounds, cash him in this week to Smith and make almost $200,000. He’s served his purpose well.
Esava Ratugolea ($271,000, FWD) — -2 points Breakeven: 107
His*horror leg injury*means he’s likely to miss the rest of the season, so you can afford to hold him on your bench and cash in when the time is right if your team is well placed. His break-even shouldn’t be a factor.
TRADE SOON
Jaidyn Stephenson ($330,000, FWD-MID) — 58 points Breakeven: 56
We’ve been here before with Stephenson. The No. 6 pick has been in the gun to be traded out a few times and then responded with a performance which has pushed his price higher. He has six scores better than his break-even this week and a favourable bye. Don’t part with him just yet.
Zac Giles-Langdon ($230,400, FWD) — 45 points Breakeven: 34
Giles-Langdon should make small gains until the Giants’ bye, but you can move him on in the next few weeks if you are happy to cash in.
HOLD
Ed Richards ($287,100, DEF) — 102 points Breakeven: 13
Perfect bye and a great break-even for the Bulldogs’ first-round draft pick. He posted career-best numbers on Friday and the coaches who stuck the emergency tag on him then loopholed his score would have been thrilled. Those who missed out and had him stuck on their bench should read up on the loophole strategy.
Ed Phillips ($176,900, MID) — 57 points Breakeven: 0
Phillips hasn’t been able to hit the heights he did on debut in his past two matches but he still enjoyed a $53,000 price rise and will continue to make money for a while yet.
Bayley Fritsch ($369,000, FWD) — 87 points Breakeven: 47
Who’s kicking themselves for trading Fritsch out when he was rested on the short turnaround due to Anzac Day? I know I am. His five-round average is 85 and you can start him on the field with confidence.
Charlie Spargo ($232,600, FWD-MID) — 61 points Breakeven: 19
Spargo has more money to make and should serve as valuable cover who can swing between forward and midfield depending on injuries.
Tom Doedee ($372,300, DEF) — 104 points Breakeven: 28
The Crows’ top scorer on a dirty day in Alice Springs and he’s going to finish above $400,000 as a result. He’s making it very hard to move him on if you had planned to upgrade him.
Bayley Fritsch is thriving in a new role further up the field.Carlton’s Paddy Dow is finding his feet at AFL level.
Oscar McInerney ($248,700, RUCK) — 41 points Breakeven: 43
Remind yourself you didn’t bring McInerney in to match the feats of Max Gawn or his teammate Stefan Martin. He’s there for ruck cover and that’s valuable, so hold on to him as long as he’s in the Lions’ side.
Jack Henry ($300,400, FWD) — 99 points Breakeven: 25
Harry Taylor’s withdrawal gave Henry the chance to shine in defence and he delivered in spades for his owners. Those who parted with him in the past few weeks will be kicking themselves now.
Paddy Dow ($293,100, MID) — 72 points Breakeven: 53
Dow has managed six consecutive scores of 50 or better and is finding his feet at the elite level. It would be a surprise if he couldn’t pass his break-even this weekend.
Matt Guelfi ($243,600. FWD) — 68 points Breakeven: 17
Guelfi was a solid contributor in Essendon’s win over the Giants and has posted scores between 61 and 72 in his short career. You can afford to start him if you are short up forward knowing you should receive a score in this range.
David Mirra ($266,200, DEF) — 81 points Breakeven: -10
With a three-round average of 80 and a break-even still in the negative, the coaches who swooped on mature-age Hawk Mirra before his price rose will be sitting pretty. He’s perfect cover in the byes and is justifying Hawthorn’s decision to rookie list him after a distinguished VFL career.
Willie Rioli ($325,100, FWD) — 72 points Breakeven: 59
Rioli’s average of 62 is just above his break-even this week, but forecast how your bye rounds will look before you decide to move him on. You’d be wise to keep him until at least Round 15.
Tom Cole ($267,300, DEF) — 54 points Breakeven: 44
Don’t make too many hasty moves on Cole despite his three-round average of 50. He promised a lot in his opening two games and if he can return to that sort of scoring his price will surge above $300,000.
Bailey Banfield ($267,100, MID) — 64 points Breakeven: 40
Banfield has worked his break-even back to 40 which means he has a few more weeks left in your team as midfield cover yet before he’ll reach his top price. Plan a trade around his Round 14 bye.
Essendon defender Jordan Ridley at training.Tim Smith earned his AFL spot by starring for Casey Scorpions. Picture: Michael Klein
BUBBLE BOYS
Bailey Rice ($123,900, DEF) — 68 points Breakeven: -49
Rice has looked composed in defence in his first two senior games for the Saints and could be a more attractive option for those who waited an extra week before bringing Essendon’s Jordan Ridley in. The sticking point is he shares a bye with many popular players in Round 14.
Jordan Ridley ($123,900, DEF) — 49 points Breakeven: -51
Ridley is already in more than 20 per cent of teams as a result of his 76 on debut, but after a quiet second game it’s worth considering whether you would prefer him or Rice. In his favour is he will feature in Round 14 if he’s still in the Essendon side then.
Pat Kerr ($123,900, FWD) — 56 points Breakeven: -5
How long does Kerr hold his spot in the Carlton side when Levi Casboult returns? Jack Silvagni has been in solid form in the VFL too and is competing for the same spot.
Tim Smith ($123,900, FWD) — 101 points Breakeven: -118
Smith is going to be heavily traded in this week and with good reason. His only two matches last year resulted in scores in the 20s, but he’s posted 91 and 101 this year after winning a call-up. Don’t miss the boat or you will be disappointed.
ONE-GAMERS
Roarke Smith ($158,300, DEF) — 68 points Breakeven: -41
Stuck for a defensive rookie option who will be playing in Round 13 and 14 (depending on selection)? Smith might be your man. He played his first game since Round 22, 2016 against the Magpies due to a knee reconstruction and went OK.
Josh Daicos ($190,500, FWD) — 45 points Breakeven: 24
Daicos has been on the fringes of selection and his elevated rookie price makes it difficult to make a case for bringing him in.
Callum Moore ($133, 600, FWD) — 68 points Breakeven: -56
Take the chance to have a second look at Moore before you decide how many forward rookies you are willing to carry through the bye rounds. It might be hard to squeeze him and Tim Smith into the same team.
Callum Moore should get more chances with the Tigers. Picture: Wayne Ludbey
Logan Austin ($159,700, DEF) — 106 points Breakeven: -116
With a break-even that low, Austin is going to be hard to overlook if he scores 60 or above in his second game. His tricky Round 14 bye and slightly elevated price might be reason for some coaches to overlook him though.
Jamaine Jones ($123,900, FWD) — 40 points Breakeven: -6
Kicked the first goal on debut and has*an inspiring backstory, but Jones doesn’t appear to have the potential for high scores. Look elsewhere.
Tim Michell, Herald Sun
May 29, 2018 1:35pm
Subscriber only
RELIABLE cash cows are worth their weight in gold in SuperCoach and it makes those who have delivered hefty price rises difficult to part with.
No player has enjoyed the profit of Geelong midfielder Tim Kelly this year, but the time has come for his owners to pull the trigger and move him on.
TRADE TIPS:*SIX CUT PRICE STARS YOU NEED TO KNOW
BARGAINS:*THE PHANTOM’S ROUND 10 REVIEW
RAGE TRADES:*TIME TO ROCKLIFF AND ROLL
After only one score below 89 to Round 8, Kelly has posted 48 and 57 in the past two weeks, totals which have caused his break-even to skyrocket to 136.
He lost $28,000 at the weekend and his price will plummet below $400,000 again after this weekend.
You only need a bank of $80,000 to turn him into Dustin Martin in one trade, while Port Adelaide skipper Travis Boak is slightly more expensive than Dusty and will carry you through the byes.
Bayley Fritsch, Tom Doedee and the returning Nick Holman will continue to make money, so hold off trading them if you can.
Here’s all the information you need to know about this week’s popular cash cows and bubble boys.
CASH COWSTRADE NOW
Tim Kelly ($401,700, MID) — 57 points Breakeven: 136
Kelly has been the cash cow of 2018 but his price is falling quickly and the value he accumulated risks going up in smoke. He still has enough currency to be turned into a fallen premium or you could make $280,000 to sit on for the bye rounds by cashing him in to Melbourne’s Tim Smith (via a mid-forward like Jack Higgins or Charlie Spargo).
Billy Gowers ($274,600, FWD) — 49 points Breakeven: 71
Gowers lost $8000 on Friday and risks dropping further in value with his break-even now well above his season average. He’s risen more than $150,000 from his initial value and would be a perfect downgrade to Smith (more on him below).
Jack Higgins ($280,400, FWD-MID) — 51 points Breakeven: 66
Higgins is just doing enough to hold his place in the Tigers’ team, but with the bye rounds looming large he has all but exhausted his cash generation. You could afford to back him in for one more week, but move him on if there’s a better option to push your side closer to full premium status.
Jack Higgins has failed to kick a snag in his past two matches.
Cameron Rayner ($263,900, FWD-MID) — 35 points Breakeven: 68
How much more profit can you afford to have the No. 1 draft pick lose? It’s a question more than 35,000 coaches will ask this week and a double downgrade featuring him and Tim Kelly to build a huge bank before the byes could be a sound strategy.
Jake Waterman ($310,700, FWD) — 49 points Breakeven: 85
Unless you’re holding Waterman to benefit you during the bye rounds, cash him in this week to Smith and make almost $200,000. He’s served his purpose well.
Esava Ratugolea ($271,000, FWD) — -2 points Breakeven: 107
His*horror leg injury*means he’s likely to miss the rest of the season, so you can afford to hold him on your bench and cash in when the time is right if your team is well placed. His break-even shouldn’t be a factor.
TRADE SOON
Jaidyn Stephenson ($330,000, FWD-MID) — 58 points Breakeven: 56
We’ve been here before with Stephenson. The No. 6 pick has been in the gun to be traded out a few times and then responded with a performance which has pushed his price higher. He has six scores better than his break-even this week and a favourable bye. Don’t part with him just yet.
Zac Giles-Langdon ($230,400, FWD) — 45 points Breakeven: 34
Giles-Langdon should make small gains until the Giants’ bye, but you can move him on in the next few weeks if you are happy to cash in.
HOLD
Ed Richards ($287,100, DEF) — 102 points Breakeven: 13
Perfect bye and a great break-even for the Bulldogs’ first-round draft pick. He posted career-best numbers on Friday and the coaches who stuck the emergency tag on him then loopholed his score would have been thrilled. Those who missed out and had him stuck on their bench should read up on the loophole strategy.
Ed Phillips ($176,900, MID) — 57 points Breakeven: 0
Phillips hasn’t been able to hit the heights he did on debut in his past two matches but he still enjoyed a $53,000 price rise and will continue to make money for a while yet.
Bayley Fritsch ($369,000, FWD) — 87 points Breakeven: 47
Who’s kicking themselves for trading Fritsch out when he was rested on the short turnaround due to Anzac Day? I know I am. His five-round average is 85 and you can start him on the field with confidence.
Charlie Spargo ($232,600, FWD-MID) — 61 points Breakeven: 19
Spargo has more money to make and should serve as valuable cover who can swing between forward and midfield depending on injuries.
Tom Doedee ($372,300, DEF) — 104 points Breakeven: 28
The Crows’ top scorer on a dirty day in Alice Springs and he’s going to finish above $400,000 as a result. He’s making it very hard to move him on if you had planned to upgrade him.
Bayley Fritsch is thriving in a new role further up the field.Carlton’s Paddy Dow is finding his feet at AFL level.
Oscar McInerney ($248,700, RUCK) — 41 points Breakeven: 43
Remind yourself you didn’t bring McInerney in to match the feats of Max Gawn or his teammate Stefan Martin. He’s there for ruck cover and that’s valuable, so hold on to him as long as he’s in the Lions’ side.
Jack Henry ($300,400, FWD) — 99 points Breakeven: 25
Harry Taylor’s withdrawal gave Henry the chance to shine in defence and he delivered in spades for his owners. Those who parted with him in the past few weeks will be kicking themselves now.
Paddy Dow ($293,100, MID) — 72 points Breakeven: 53
Dow has managed six consecutive scores of 50 or better and is finding his feet at the elite level. It would be a surprise if he couldn’t pass his break-even this weekend.
Matt Guelfi ($243,600. FWD) — 68 points Breakeven: 17
Guelfi was a solid contributor in Essendon’s win over the Giants and has posted scores between 61 and 72 in his short career. You can afford to start him if you are short up forward knowing you should receive a score in this range.
David Mirra ($266,200, DEF) — 81 points Breakeven: -10
With a three-round average of 80 and a break-even still in the negative, the coaches who swooped on mature-age Hawk Mirra before his price rose will be sitting pretty. He’s perfect cover in the byes and is justifying Hawthorn’s decision to rookie list him after a distinguished VFL career.
Willie Rioli ($325,100, FWD) — 72 points Breakeven: 59
Rioli’s average of 62 is just above his break-even this week, but forecast how your bye rounds will look before you decide to move him on. You’d be wise to keep him until at least Round 15.
Tom Cole ($267,300, DEF) — 54 points Breakeven: 44
Don’t make too many hasty moves on Cole despite his three-round average of 50. He promised a lot in his opening two games and if he can return to that sort of scoring his price will surge above $300,000.
Bailey Banfield ($267,100, MID) — 64 points Breakeven: 40
Banfield has worked his break-even back to 40 which means he has a few more weeks left in your team as midfield cover yet before he’ll reach his top price. Plan a trade around his Round 14 bye.
Essendon defender Jordan Ridley at training.Tim Smith earned his AFL spot by starring for Casey Scorpions. Picture: Michael Klein
BUBBLE BOYS
Bailey Rice ($123,900, DEF) — 68 points Breakeven: -49
Rice has looked composed in defence in his first two senior games for the Saints and could be a more attractive option for those who waited an extra week before bringing Essendon’s Jordan Ridley in. The sticking point is he shares a bye with many popular players in Round 14.
Jordan Ridley ($123,900, DEF) — 49 points Breakeven: -51
Ridley is already in more than 20 per cent of teams as a result of his 76 on debut, but after a quiet second game it’s worth considering whether you would prefer him or Rice. In his favour is he will feature in Round 14 if he’s still in the Essendon side then.
Pat Kerr ($123,900, FWD) — 56 points Breakeven: -5
How long does Kerr hold his spot in the Carlton side when Levi Casboult returns? Jack Silvagni has been in solid form in the VFL too and is competing for the same spot.
Tim Smith ($123,900, FWD) — 101 points Breakeven: -118
Smith is going to be heavily traded in this week and with good reason. His only two matches last year resulted in scores in the 20s, but he’s posted 91 and 101 this year after winning a call-up. Don’t miss the boat or you will be disappointed.
ONE-GAMERS
Roarke Smith ($158,300, DEF) — 68 points Breakeven: -41
Stuck for a defensive rookie option who will be playing in Round 13 and 14 (depending on selection)? Smith might be your man. He played his first game since Round 22, 2016 against the Magpies due to a knee reconstruction and went OK.
Josh Daicos ($190,500, FWD) — 45 points Breakeven: 24
Daicos has been on the fringes of selection and his elevated rookie price makes it difficult to make a case for bringing him in.
Callum Moore ($133, 600, FWD) — 68 points Breakeven: -56
Take the chance to have a second look at Moore before you decide how many forward rookies you are willing to carry through the bye rounds. It might be hard to squeeze him and Tim Smith into the same team.
Callum Moore should get more chances with the Tigers. Picture: Wayne Ludbey
Logan Austin ($159,700, DEF) — 106 points Breakeven: -116
With a break-even that low, Austin is going to be hard to overlook if he scores 60 or above in his second game. His tricky Round 14 bye and slightly elevated price might be reason for some coaches to overlook him though.
Jamaine Jones ($123,900, FWD) — 40 points Breakeven: -6
Kicked the first goal on debut and has*an inspiring backstory, but Jones doesn’t appear to have the potential for high scores. Look elsewhere.
yeah and crap ones like Murphy , Garlett & Barry that I still own hahaha.
Just prove onces again you need to get the rookies right from the start and build your side around them and back sure you get on the correct second wave ones when they appear eg Guelfi , Higgins , Mirra , Ronke etc
Next year I might just use 9 trades in the 3 bye rounds to bring in all premiums and charge home.
Just prove onces again you need to get the rookies right from the start and build your side around them and back sure you get on the correct second wave ones when they appear eg Guelfi , Higgins , Mirra , Ronke etc
Next year I might just use 9 trades in the 3 bye rounds to bring in all premiums and charge home.
From the Giants website. We might see a couple of these players in the seniors soon.
GIANTS*3.7, 7.8, 15.13,*18.16 (124)
REDLAND*0.2, 2.6, 3.7,*8.11 (59)
GOALS – Giants:*S Driscoll 4 R Pollock 3 M Flynn 3 I Cumming 2 J Finlayson 2 E Perryman N Coxall M McGrory L Keeffe.*
The GIANTS Reserves now head to TIO Stadium to play the Northern Territory Thunder on Sunday, June 3 at*6:30pm*.
GIANTS NEAFL coach Adam Schneider on the performance of the GIANTS’ AFL-listed players:
Zach Sproule*- 34 disposals, 11 marks
“He’s been in good form for the last five weeks for us. He’s played everywhere on the field, except ruck, and*again he was great. He’s getting rewarded for hard work”
Aidan Bonar*- 31 disposals, 4 marks, 4 tackles
“Bon’s an animal inside. He’s still working on a few things but he’s going to be a great player for us down the track”
Nick Shipley*- 26 disposals, 3 marks, 11 tackles
“He is a workhorse. He probably would’ve run 16km again this week. He just covers ground, it’s amazing how he does it. It didn’t quite go his way offensively today, but he had 11 tackles for us, and he just never gives up.”
Isaac Cumming*- 33 disposals, 10 marks, 5 tackles, 2 goals
“Cumming was great coming back from the AFL.”
Lachlan*Keefe - 14 disposals, 3 marks, 2 tackles
“Keefe was super for us. Both he and Cumming were huge.”
Matthew Flynn*- 17 disposals, 5 marks, 2 tackles, 3 goals, 21*hitouts
“It was big Flynn’s 50th NEAFL game for the GIANTS and he was captain today. It was good to see him come out again and be competitive. To get a reward with three goals was great for him.”
Jeremy Finlayson*- 25 disposals, 7 marks, 4 tackles
“Jeremy’s just extremely deadly when he gets the footy in hand. He was fantastic for us.”
Sam Taylor*- 13 disposals, 3 marks, 1 tackle
“Was really good for us tonight. They were both on really good opposition players in Paine and Hamilton and to keep them to one goal between the two of them was fantastic.”
Jake Stein*- 15 disposals, 6 marks, 2 tackles
“He came off a quiet game last week but footy’s a funny thing, things turn around pretty quick and he certainly did that tonight.”
Brent Daniels*- 15 disposals, 2 marks, 2 tackles
“He got tagged by Brad Howard who’s played with St Kilda at AFL level so it was a good challenge for him. What I was proud*about*was that he fights through it. It wasn’t his day offensively with the ball and*possession wise*but his high pressure and never give up attitude certainly stood out”*
Dawson Simpson*- 6 disposals, 2 marks, 2 tackles, 25*hitouts
“He’s a freak. Continues to get his hands on the ball and make our midfielders look good. I’d love to be midfield with him that’s for sure. But he was super and his spirit around the boys is second to none.”
GIANTS*3.7, 7.8, 15.13,*18.16 (124)
REDLAND*0.2, 2.6, 3.7,*8.11 (59)
GOALS – Giants:*S Driscoll 4 R Pollock 3 M Flynn 3 I Cumming 2 J Finlayson 2 E Perryman N Coxall M McGrory L Keeffe.*
The GIANTS Reserves now head to TIO Stadium to play the Northern Territory Thunder on Sunday, June 3 at*6:30pm*.
GIANTS NEAFL coach Adam Schneider on the performance of the GIANTS’ AFL-listed players:
Zach Sproule*- 34 disposals, 11 marks
“He’s been in good form for the last five weeks for us. He’s played everywhere on the field, except ruck, and*again he was great. He’s getting rewarded for hard work”
Aidan Bonar*- 31 disposals, 4 marks, 4 tackles
“Bon’s an animal inside. He’s still working on a few things but he’s going to be a great player for us down the track”
Nick Shipley*- 26 disposals, 3 marks, 11 tackles
“He is a workhorse. He probably would’ve run 16km again this week. He just covers ground, it’s amazing how he does it. It didn’t quite go his way offensively today, but he had 11 tackles for us, and he just never gives up.”
Isaac Cumming*- 33 disposals, 10 marks, 5 tackles, 2 goals
“Cumming was great coming back from the AFL.”
Lachlan*Keefe - 14 disposals, 3 marks, 2 tackles
“Keefe was super for us. Both he and Cumming were huge.”
Matthew Flynn*- 17 disposals, 5 marks, 2 tackles, 3 goals, 21*hitouts
“It was big Flynn’s 50th NEAFL game for the GIANTS and he was captain today. It was good to see him come out again and be competitive. To get a reward with three goals was great for him.”
Jeremy Finlayson*- 25 disposals, 7 marks, 4 tackles
“Jeremy’s just extremely deadly when he gets the footy in hand. He was fantastic for us.”
Sam Taylor*- 13 disposals, 3 marks, 1 tackle
“Was really good for us tonight. They were both on really good opposition players in Paine and Hamilton and to keep them to one goal between the two of them was fantastic.”
Jake Stein*- 15 disposals, 6 marks, 2 tackles
“He came off a quiet game last week but footy’s a funny thing, things turn around pretty quick and he certainly did that tonight.”
Brent Daniels*- 15 disposals, 2 marks, 2 tackles
“He got tagged by Brad Howard who’s played with St Kilda at AFL level so it was a good challenge for him. What I was proud*about*was that he fights through it. It wasn’t his day offensively with the ball and*possession wise*but his high pressure and never give up attitude certainly stood out”*
Dawson Simpson*- 6 disposals, 2 marks, 2 tackles, 25*hitouts
“He’s a freak. Continues to get his hands on the ball and make our midfielders look good. I’d love to be midfield with him that’s for sure. But he was super and his spirit around the boys is second to none.”
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SuperCoach Investor: Trade tips for Round 11 and through the bye rounds
Daniel Begala, Herald Sun
May 30, 2018 5:31pm
Subscriber only
THE SuperCoach stock market was full of life over the weekend with many teams — including yours truly — registering their best scores of season 2018.
There were a cast of stocks — too many to name — that outperformed the market with scores in excess of the majestic 130-point barrier.
Balancing the upside, however, was the poor dividends of stars including Marcus Bontempelli (47) and Jeremy Howe (59).
Our resident investment expert, Daniel Begala casts his eyes across the key decisions that coaches must address to ensure that their SuperCoach portfolio is ready for the looming challenge that is the byes.
NAVIGATING THE BYES
The byes are a three-week stanza that is full of treachery. They can make or break your SuperCoach season.
Some astute investors have been planning for this period for many weeks. They’ve dotted their i’s, crossed their t’s … and built their trade war chest. They are the envy of the SuperCoach community, but anything and everything can change in the lead-up to the byes.
The first step, if you wish to outperform your peers during the byes, is to consider the acquisition of the top-tier of Gold Coast and Port Adelaide stars.
There is no better time to acquire the likes of Robbie Gray ($542K, FWD) and polarising midfielder Tom Rockliff ($375K, MID), who has seemingly turned the corner.
After some horror scores including a 17 and 25 early in the season, Rocky is back in the midfield and has produced scores of 98 and 102 in his past two game (break-even 25).
Those numbers are still well short of the huge scores we have seen in the past (157 and 167 in the first seven rounds last year) and investors banking on those kind of returns are likely to be disappointed. But at his price Rockliff still presents outstanding value.
Despite boasting a finished midfield of eight premiums already, I am giving considerable thought to the prospect of acquiring the bargain-basement Rockliff for the purpose of navigating the byes and loopholing throughout the future.
Watch this space.
If you’re still boasting the services of Nick Holman, it’s time to reap the rewards of your patience with the mature-aged midfielder expected to blossom in a starting role. All it takes is an opportunity.
THE FALLEN FEW
There are arbitrage opportunities aplenty, but there is one forward who stands out in the mind of The SuperCoach Investor.
Hello, Michael Walters ($419K, MID-FWD). The little magician roared back into form following a knee injury that surprisingly restricted him to only a fortnight on the sidelines.
Against the Roos, Walters finished with two goals, 27 disposals and 146 points.
Discounting the impact of his injury-affected game in Round 6, Walters is averaging north of 104 points per week and looms as this week’s must-have stock.
He does, unfortunately, boast the Round 14 bye which is sure to be where most — if not all — coaches are expected to fall short of the required 18 scoring players.
The SuperCoach Investor’s rebuttal to this, however, is that throughout Rounds 12, 13 and even on the eve of 14, many coaches will trade aggressively and plug players into their sides to ensure you have — at a minimum — 18 players available for duty.
Michael Walters is a great dual-position option.
ROOKIE RICHES
There’s a strong pipeline of penny stocks that are scheduled to IPO on the stock exchange this week.
Keep your eye on matured-aged recruit Tim Smith ($124K, FWD) and youngsters Jordan Ridley ($124K, DEF) and Bailey Rice ($124K, DEF), who are each expected to dominate the ins and outs for sides this weekend.
It’s horses for courses, with your decision driven by your team’s structure and overall rankings strategy.
I will opt for Smith, who is pinch-hitting in the ruck and causing havoc up forward for the Demons juggernaut.
He is the pick of the bunch and even if his tenure is short-lived is expected to appreciate handsomely in the lead-up to Melbourne’s bye (Round 13).
It’s goodbye, Zac Giles-Langdon and welcome to “The Bull”.
Daniel Begala, Herald Sun
May 30, 2018 5:31pm
Subscriber only
THE SuperCoach stock market was full of life over the weekend with many teams — including yours truly — registering their best scores of season 2018.
There were a cast of stocks — too many to name — that outperformed the market with scores in excess of the majestic 130-point barrier.
Balancing the upside, however, was the poor dividends of stars including Marcus Bontempelli (47) and Jeremy Howe (59).
Our resident investment expert, Daniel Begala casts his eyes across the key decisions that coaches must address to ensure that their SuperCoach portfolio is ready for the looming challenge that is the byes.
NAVIGATING THE BYES
The byes are a three-week stanza that is full of treachery. They can make or break your SuperCoach season.
Some astute investors have been planning for this period for many weeks. They’ve dotted their i’s, crossed their t’s … and built their trade war chest. They are the envy of the SuperCoach community, but anything and everything can change in the lead-up to the byes.
The first step, if you wish to outperform your peers during the byes, is to consider the acquisition of the top-tier of Gold Coast and Port Adelaide stars.
There is no better time to acquire the likes of Robbie Gray ($542K, FWD) and polarising midfielder Tom Rockliff ($375K, MID), who has seemingly turned the corner.
After some horror scores including a 17 and 25 early in the season, Rocky is back in the midfield and has produced scores of 98 and 102 in his past two game (break-even 25).
Those numbers are still well short of the huge scores we have seen in the past (157 and 167 in the first seven rounds last year) and investors banking on those kind of returns are likely to be disappointed. But at his price Rockliff still presents outstanding value.
Despite boasting a finished midfield of eight premiums already, I am giving considerable thought to the prospect of acquiring the bargain-basement Rockliff for the purpose of navigating the byes and loopholing throughout the future.
Watch this space.
If you’re still boasting the services of Nick Holman, it’s time to reap the rewards of your patience with the mature-aged midfielder expected to blossom in a starting role. All it takes is an opportunity.
THE FALLEN FEW
There are arbitrage opportunities aplenty, but there is one forward who stands out in the mind of The SuperCoach Investor.
Hello, Michael Walters ($419K, MID-FWD). The little magician roared back into form following a knee injury that surprisingly restricted him to only a fortnight on the sidelines.
Against the Roos, Walters finished with two goals, 27 disposals and 146 points.
Discounting the impact of his injury-affected game in Round 6, Walters is averaging north of 104 points per week and looms as this week’s must-have stock.
He does, unfortunately, boast the Round 14 bye which is sure to be where most — if not all — coaches are expected to fall short of the required 18 scoring players.
The SuperCoach Investor’s rebuttal to this, however, is that throughout Rounds 12, 13 and even on the eve of 14, many coaches will trade aggressively and plug players into their sides to ensure you have — at a minimum — 18 players available for duty.
Michael Walters is a great dual-position option.
ROOKIE RICHES
There’s a strong pipeline of penny stocks that are scheduled to IPO on the stock exchange this week.
Keep your eye on matured-aged recruit Tim Smith ($124K, FWD) and youngsters Jordan Ridley ($124K, DEF) and Bailey Rice ($124K, DEF), who are each expected to dominate the ins and outs for sides this weekend.
It’s horses for courses, with your decision driven by your team’s structure and overall rankings strategy.
I will opt for Smith, who is pinch-hitting in the ruck and causing havoc up forward for the Demons juggernaut.
He is the pick of the bunch and even if his tenure is short-lived is expected to appreciate handsomely in the lead-up to Melbourne’s bye (Round 13).
It’s goodbye, Zac Giles-Langdon and welcome to “The Bull”.
SuperCoach number crunch: Round 10 scoring quirks explained
Al Paton, Herald Sun
May 30, 2018 7:50pm
Subscriber only
SUPERCOACH scoring is about a lot more than kicks and handballs.
Get a lot of the footy and you’re likely to get a high score (just ask Tom Mitchell) but final scores are based on a complex formula refined over the past decade by Champion Data to reward the actions that most impact the outcome of matches.
SUPERCOACH INVESTOR: IS ROCKLIFF A BARGAIN OR A TRAP?
PERFECT 9: HOW TO WIN $270,000 IN FIVE MINUTES
That’s how you can end up with a 100-plus score despite having just three kicks for the game.
Scroll down to find out how Essendon’s Tom Bellchambers did just that last round plus the positive signs for Jack Billings and how much the goal review cost Jack Higgins owners as Champion Data lifts the lid on the SuperCoach scoring quirks of Round 10.
THE SUPERCOACH BELL CURVE
It’s not often a player scores 119 points from just three disposals. That was the case with Tom Bellchambers against the Giants. He scored 80 points from hitouts-to-advantage (19 in total), while also earning points from a free kick, a score assist, effective spoils, effective knock-ons and tackles. Interestingly, Bellchambers scored just 63 points in the AFL Fantasy game which has a much simpler scoring system.
Here is a breakdown of Bellchambers’ non-disposal scoring;
Who needs kicks and handballs?
ActionScoreBehind assist2.9 pointsBall-up hitouts to advantage32.3 pointsCentre bounce hitouts to advantage14.6 pointsThrow-in hitouts to advantage33.4 pointsFree kick for4.1 pointsEffective spoils8.1 pointsEffective knock-ons4.3 pointsTackles5.3 points
GOAL REVIEW ROBS HIGGINS
Owners of Richmond forward Jack Higgins missed out on a 14-point play after his shot at goal at the four-minute mark of the third term was deemed to be touched on the line by Tom Hickey. After the goal review was complete and the goal was disallowed, Higgins scored just four points for his lead mark and one point for the behind that was scored, a turnaround of nine points. The*AFL later admitted the review was wrong and the kick should have been a goal. Too late if you lost a close league match!
RONKE COMES UP EMPTY
Sydney’s Ben Ronke didn’t make the most of an advantage free kick at the 26-minute mark of the third term against Brisbane. After Dayne Zorko impeded George Hewett at a stoppage, Ronke was given the advantage free kick and had a shot at goal, which fell short. He scored zero points from that play after his kick was ineffective (players aren’t awarded points for receiving a relayed free kick). Hewett’s SuperCoach score was bumped up for winning the free.
Ben Ronke kicked two goals against Brisbane. Picture: Phil HillyardDustin Martin helped get the Tigers home against St Kilda.
DUSTY FIRES LATE
It wasn’t the greatest day by Dustin Martin’s standards in the opening three quarters, scoring just 59 points prior to kicking his first goal of the afternoon late in the third quarter. A 38-point final term ensured he ticked over the 100-point mark against St Kilda, with his second goal of the match at the three-minute mark of the final quarter earning him a match-high eight points. He had only three negative acts for the game — one free kick against and two kick clangers — losing 8.3 points in total.
IS BILLINGS BACK?
No player in the competition has been under more heat from SuperCoach owners than Jack Billings. But has the tide finally turned?*His coach, Alan Richardson, believes so. It was a familiar story in the first half for Billings against Richmond, managing just six disposals and having no impact on the scoreboard. But his second half will give owners plenty of optimism, scoring 52 points which ranked 11th on the ground. He had only one negative act (one kick clanger) and scored a goal at the five-minute mark of the third quarter which earned him seven points. His fixture doesn’t get any easier with a trip to Perth to play West Coast followed by a clash against Sydney at Etihad Stadium. Maybe bench him for now.
MITCHELL MISSES OUT
SuperCoach owners who had Tom Mitchell as captain were getting excited when he marked within scoring distance in the final minutes against West Coast. Unfortunately, his shot at goal sailed out on the full. In total, he lost one point from his score from that play. In fact, it was one of only three negative acts for Mitchell on the day. Had he kicked the goal, it would have been a 7.3-point play made up of one uncontested mark, one effective long kick and the goal.
Al Paton, Herald Sun
May 30, 2018 7:50pm
Subscriber only
SUPERCOACH scoring is about a lot more than kicks and handballs.
Get a lot of the footy and you’re likely to get a high score (just ask Tom Mitchell) but final scores are based on a complex formula refined over the past decade by Champion Data to reward the actions that most impact the outcome of matches.
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That’s how you can end up with a 100-plus score despite having just three kicks for the game.
Scroll down to find out how Essendon’s Tom Bellchambers did just that last round plus the positive signs for Jack Billings and how much the goal review cost Jack Higgins owners as Champion Data lifts the lid on the SuperCoach scoring quirks of Round 10.
THE SUPERCOACH BELL CURVE
It’s not often a player scores 119 points from just three disposals. That was the case with Tom Bellchambers against the Giants. He scored 80 points from hitouts-to-advantage (19 in total), while also earning points from a free kick, a score assist, effective spoils, effective knock-ons and tackles. Interestingly, Bellchambers scored just 63 points in the AFL Fantasy game which has a much simpler scoring system.
Here is a breakdown of Bellchambers’ non-disposal scoring;
Who needs kicks and handballs?
ActionScoreBehind assist2.9 pointsBall-up hitouts to advantage32.3 pointsCentre bounce hitouts to advantage14.6 pointsThrow-in hitouts to advantage33.4 pointsFree kick for4.1 pointsEffective spoils8.1 pointsEffective knock-ons4.3 pointsTackles5.3 points
GOAL REVIEW ROBS HIGGINS
Owners of Richmond forward Jack Higgins missed out on a 14-point play after his shot at goal at the four-minute mark of the third term was deemed to be touched on the line by Tom Hickey. After the goal review was complete and the goal was disallowed, Higgins scored just four points for his lead mark and one point for the behind that was scored, a turnaround of nine points. The*AFL later admitted the review was wrong and the kick should have been a goal. Too late if you lost a close league match!
RONKE COMES UP EMPTY
Sydney’s Ben Ronke didn’t make the most of an advantage free kick at the 26-minute mark of the third term against Brisbane. After Dayne Zorko impeded George Hewett at a stoppage, Ronke was given the advantage free kick and had a shot at goal, which fell short. He scored zero points from that play after his kick was ineffective (players aren’t awarded points for receiving a relayed free kick). Hewett’s SuperCoach score was bumped up for winning the free.
Ben Ronke kicked two goals against Brisbane. Picture: Phil HillyardDustin Martin helped get the Tigers home against St Kilda.
DUSTY FIRES LATE
It wasn’t the greatest day by Dustin Martin’s standards in the opening three quarters, scoring just 59 points prior to kicking his first goal of the afternoon late in the third quarter. A 38-point final term ensured he ticked over the 100-point mark against St Kilda, with his second goal of the match at the three-minute mark of the final quarter earning him a match-high eight points. He had only three negative acts for the game — one free kick against and two kick clangers — losing 8.3 points in total.
IS BILLINGS BACK?
No player in the competition has been under more heat from SuperCoach owners than Jack Billings. But has the tide finally turned?*His coach, Alan Richardson, believes so. It was a familiar story in the first half for Billings against Richmond, managing just six disposals and having no impact on the scoreboard. But his second half will give owners plenty of optimism, scoring 52 points which ranked 11th on the ground. He had only one negative act (one kick clanger) and scored a goal at the five-minute mark of the third quarter which earned him seven points. His fixture doesn’t get any easier with a trip to Perth to play West Coast followed by a clash against Sydney at Etihad Stadium. Maybe bench him for now.
MITCHELL MISSES OUT
SuperCoach owners who had Tom Mitchell as captain were getting excited when he marked within scoring distance in the final minutes against West Coast. Unfortunately, his shot at goal sailed out on the full. In total, he lost one point from his score from that play. In fact, it was one of only three negative acts for Mitchell on the day. Had he kicked the goal, it would have been a 7.3-point play made up of one uncontested mark, one effective long kick and the goal.
Collingwood would have to move on multiple players to find the salary cap room for Tom Lynch
JON RALPH, Herald Sun
22 minutes ago
Subscriber only
COLLINGWOOD would have to move on multiple players to find the salary cap room if Tom Lynch wanted to join the Magpies.
Restricted free agent Lynch will this week return for*Gold Coast after a week in Melbourne spending time with family.
His manager Robbie D’Orazio told the Herald Sun that Lynch had not met Melbourne clubs in that time and would not do so in the future.
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Collingwood chief executive Mark Anderson said last weekend the Pies were up against the salary cap this year and next with little wriggle room.
It means Collingwood would need to move on some of the nearly 20 players it still has out of contract if Lynch picked them as his destination of choice.
He is expected to want $1 million a year to move south, although many close to him are adamant he will not ask for crazy figures near $1.5 million a year.
Tom Lynch is the biggest free agent in the game. Picture: AAP Images
Darcy Moore has been linked to Sydney and Jordan De Goey has seven clubs interested but both have told Collingwood they are keen to stay.
Alex Fasolo and Jamie Elliott will both wait until they are back into the senior team to start contract negotiations.
Elliott, 25, has played 17 of the past 54 games at Collingwood and at 25 would ideally have been in the form to win the most lucrative contract of his career.
Fasolo is well down the forward line pecking order and as a free agent would not only clear cap space but get the Pies a compensation pick if the left for another club.
Matt Scharenberg and Josh Thomas are in early talks after outstanding seasons so far, set to be rewarded for career-best seasons.
Anderson said before last week’s win over the Western Bulldogs the club’s cap space was limited.
“Like all clubs you are right near the capacity of 100 per cent. Most clubs are in that position so we are no different to that,’’ he said.
“Your list management is that skill of managing that right across the next few weeks and ensuring you are keeping the right players and working through that.”
Tyson Goldsack, Kale Kirby, Will Hoskin-Elliott, Tom Langdon, Tim Broomhead, Lynden Dunn, Josh Daicos and James Aish are also out of contract.
Will Alex Fasolo be at the Magpies in 2019? Picture: Getty Images
Jarryd Blair, Levi Greenwood, Callum Brown, Adam Oxley, Josh Smith and Sam McLarty round out that list.
Lynch is yet to make an official decision and is in no rush despite coach Stuart Dew’s request to know sooner than later this week.
“Tom is heavily invested in the footy club. We’d love to know as soon as possible, for all parties involved. Obviously that’d be a great scenario and we’d love him to stay,” he told AFL360 on Wednesday.
But if Gold Coast doesn’t make the finals he has five weeks to meet clubs and consider his options before the free agency period.
JON RALPH, Herald Sun
22 minutes ago
Subscriber only
COLLINGWOOD would have to move on multiple players to find the salary cap room if Tom Lynch wanted to join the Magpies.
Restricted free agent Lynch will this week return for*Gold Coast after a week in Melbourne spending time with family.
His manager Robbie D’Orazio told the Herald Sun that Lynch had not met Melbourne clubs in that time and would not do so in the future.
BIG CALL:*SUNS WANT TO KNOW LYNCH’S CALL
RETURNING STAR:*SUNS READY TO TAKE ON GAZ
FIGHTING FIT:*LYNCH IS BACK, BUT WILL HE STAY?
Collingwood chief executive Mark Anderson said last weekend the Pies were up against the salary cap this year and next with little wriggle room.
It means Collingwood would need to move on some of the nearly 20 players it still has out of contract if Lynch picked them as his destination of choice.
He is expected to want $1 million a year to move south, although many close to him are adamant he will not ask for crazy figures near $1.5 million a year.
Tom Lynch is the biggest free agent in the game. Picture: AAP Images
Darcy Moore has been linked to Sydney and Jordan De Goey has seven clubs interested but both have told Collingwood they are keen to stay.
Alex Fasolo and Jamie Elliott will both wait until they are back into the senior team to start contract negotiations.
Elliott, 25, has played 17 of the past 54 games at Collingwood and at 25 would ideally have been in the form to win the most lucrative contract of his career.
Fasolo is well down the forward line pecking order and as a free agent would not only clear cap space but get the Pies a compensation pick if the left for another club.
Matt Scharenberg and Josh Thomas are in early talks after outstanding seasons so far, set to be rewarded for career-best seasons.
Anderson said before last week’s win over the Western Bulldogs the club’s cap space was limited.
“Like all clubs you are right near the capacity of 100 per cent. Most clubs are in that position so we are no different to that,’’ he said.
“Your list management is that skill of managing that right across the next few weeks and ensuring you are keeping the right players and working through that.”
Tyson Goldsack, Kale Kirby, Will Hoskin-Elliott, Tom Langdon, Tim Broomhead, Lynden Dunn, Josh Daicos and James Aish are also out of contract.
Will Alex Fasolo be at the Magpies in 2019? Picture: Getty Images
Jarryd Blair, Levi Greenwood, Callum Brown, Adam Oxley, Josh Smith and Sam McLarty round out that list.
Lynch is yet to make an official decision and is in no rush despite coach Stuart Dew’s request to know sooner than later this week.
“Tom is heavily invested in the footy club. We’d love to know as soon as possible, for all parties involved. Obviously that’d be a great scenario and we’d love him to stay,” he told AFL360 on Wednesday.
But if Gold Coast doesn’t make the finals he has five weeks to meet clubs and consider his options before the free agency period.