Discussion NRL SuperCoach Discussion

[IDIG]

Don't think we've found a fantasy comp we don't like here at SCS.

Massive prizes on offer and while this is just a guess, i'm assuming there won't be as many entrants compared to AFL SC so the chances of winning are higher!

Weekly Prizes
1st $1000
2nd $500
3rd $250

Overall Prizes
1st $50k
2nd $5k
3rd-10th $1k



Leagues
SuperCoachScores01 (code 716271) https://supercoach.dailytelegraph.com.au/nrl/classic/#/?action=join-league&code=716271
SuperCoachScores02 (code 303085) https://supercoach.heraldsun.com.au/nrl/classic/#/?action=join-league&code=303085

 

[Pookus McFly]

I'm in!

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[IDIG]

I'm in!

\/

Awesome! Any idea how many entrants they usually get?

 

[Pookus McFly]

Usually over 100k

 

[Verbal Kint]

Woot! I'm in. Lets go!

 

[Connoisseur]

May as well have a go but I have absolutely no idea about the NRL (players/rules/positions/etc).

Thoughts on my current lineup:
HK: C Smith (K Mann)
FR: A Fifita, M Taupau, (D Napa, P Haas)
2RF: A Crichton, S Burgess, T Pangai, (B Cartwright, T Milne, B Nikora)
H: N Cleary, (C Harris-Tavita)
5/8'S: M Moylan, (D Brown)
W/C: L Mitchell, E Masters, C Gutherson, J Bateman, (Z Lomax, A Hopoate, B Xerri)
FB: K Ponga, (C Allan)

 

[Connoisseur]

SuperCoach NRL Cheapie Bible: The 2019 bargains that could make or break your season

Bronson Xerri (Sharks)

Position: Centre/wing

Price: $168,100

Former Cronulla coach Shane Flanagan dropped the SuperCoach quote of the year in November when he proclaimed: “I would have played him in first grade this year (2018) but he wasn’t old enough. You’ve got to be 18 now”. Of course, Flanagan is no longer the coach and it’s unknown how highly Xerri is rated by interim coach John Morris.

But one thing is for sure — backline spots are open following the exits of Jesse Ramien, Edrick Lee and Ricky Leutele, with Josh Morris the only addition. If fit, Xerri will play first grade at some stage in 2019.


Dylan Brown or Jaeman Salmon (Eels)

Brown

Position: Halfback

Price: $168,100

Salmon

Position: Five-eighth

Price: $210,500

One of these cheapies will score Corey Norman’s vacant halves spot at Parramatta. Salmon is the more likely after playing five matches at the back end of last year for an average of 25 points per game. However, that number is down due to playing two games off the bench for an average of 15 minutes and he therefore remains in the cheapie range for 2019.

Brown is so highly-rated the Warriors attempted to poach him to replace Cronulla-bound Shaun Johnson, which prompted a stern reaction from the Eels that their star youngster is signed until 2020 and not for sale.

Kurt Mann (Knights)

Position: Five-eighth, centre/wing

Price: $258,900

The former Dragons and Storm utility has huge room for improvement after signing for the Knights, who have earmarked him as a starting hooker. Mann averaged just 41 minutes as a utility at the Dragons last year and therefore starts cheap, but his game time and work rate should improve significantly if handed the No.9 jersey.

Bryce Cartwright (Titans)

Position: Back row, five-eighth

Price: $231,300

He’s burned us two years in a row but a Cheapie Bible wouldn’t be complete without Carty. He started 2018 as the most popular player in SuperCoach after moving from the Panthers to the Titans with the promise of a “roving lock” role. However, he went on to notch an average of just 24.7 in 14 games.

It was a similar story in 2017 when he came into the season as a buzz buy but only played 12 games at an average of 29.3. So why do we keep coming back to Carty? Because of his 2016 heroics, where he finished as the second highest point scorer behind Cameron Smith.

Kotoni Staggs (Broncos)

Position: Back row, centre/wing

Price: $258,500

The Broncos young gun burst on to the scene with a brilliant 65 on debut in round 11 last year. He played 77 minutes at centre after being injected early from the bench in place of the injured Tom Opacic, notching a try and last-touch assist against the best defence in the competition, the Roosters.

The buzz had barely subsided when Staggs bettered his debut performance four matches later, notching 68 in only 27 minutes against the Titans and emphatically passing the eye test. However, despite these two standout games, Staggs starts close to bottom dollar ($258,500) due to limited game time, averaging 27.6 points in 27 minutes per match.

He has a huge chance to improve on these stats given the Broncos have openings in both the backs and forwards with Josh McGuire, Korbin Sims, Sam Thaiday, Jonus Pearson and Opacic no longer at the club. We currently have him pencilled in for a bench spot, but he could earn a starting spot with just one injury. Equally adept at centre or edge back row, Staggs has the added bonus of dual-position flexibility.

Scott Drinkwater (Storm)

Position: Fullback

Price: $219,400

Another contender for Billy Slater’s fullback spot. Drinkwater filled in for Slater in the final regular season round last year when the legendary fullback took a break for family reasons. And it’s fair to say Drinkwater killed it, notching a try, linebreak and eight tackle busts for 67 points.

Drinkwater’s performance, coupled with his powerful showings for Easts Tigers, scored him a two-year contract extension at the Storm. Drinkwater faces stiff competition for the fullback spot from Cameron Munster, Jahrome Hughes and Ryan Papenhuyzen (seel below). He also starts above bottom dollar following his stunning debut.

Nathaniel Roache (Warriors)

Position: Hooker, centre/wing

Price: $246,000

The Warriors utility missed the entire 2018 season due to a back injury and therefore starts cheap for 2019. Roache is considered the long-term replacement for Issac Luke at hooker, although it’s unclear where he fits for 2019 after Luke signed a one-year extension late last year. Roache has played 17 of 20 NRL games from the bench, proving a worthy utility and filling multiple positions including fullback, centre, wing and hooker.

However, although he has the blinding acceleration to play outside backs, his long-term position is hooker. He has averaged 42 in the three games he has started at No. 9 over his career. Roache’s SuperCoach potential was highlighted in round 22 of 2017 when he scored 102 in just 40 minutes, switching between wing and hooker during the game.

Taane Milne (Warriors)

Position: Centre/wing

Price: $181,100

Came into last season as one of the most popular cheapies in the game, but his season was over almost before it started after failing a drugs test and being sacked by the Tigers. Milne didn’t play a single NRL game last year and he therefore starts at a cheapie price and has a new start at the Warriors.

The numbers all add up for Milne. His price is based on limited showings as a bench utility in 2017 at the Dragons, where he averaged a lowly 18 in 29 minutes per game. He therefore starts at a bargain price, while stints on the interchange mean he has earned valuable dual positioning in the backs and forwards. Milne was a wrecking machine on the right edge for Fiji in the World Cup and his game is perfectly suited to SuperCoach scoring. In fact, Milne was a revelation in his debut season in 2016 when he averaged a keeper-like 54 over seven games.

Emre Guler (Raiders)

Price: $227,100

Canberra’s pack will be without giants Shannon Boyd and Junior Paulo in 2019 but Guler is shaping as a ready-made replacement. Standing at 191cm and weighing 110kg, Guler will push for a regular start in Ricky Stuart’s 17. The Sydney born prop earned state and national representative honours, playing in the Emerging Origin game and for the Junior Kangaroos in 2018.

 

[Connoisseur]

Jai Whitbread (Titans)

Position: Prop

Price: $181,100

Whitbread doesn’t like talking about the fact he was born in Queensland because he has since gone on to represent NSW at the under 16s and 18s level. The young forward played one game of NRL last year and with an impressive pre-season could land him a bench spot in 2019. He made the 30 man roster for the Titans.

Zac Lomax (Dragons)

Position: Centre/Wing

Price: $196,900

Memo to Zac Lomax — you owe me and 20,805 other SuperCoaches who invested in your potential last year. Luckily, the man Blues coach Brad Fittler calls ‘The Gifted One’ has more than enough ability to make it up to us in 2019. Injuries cruelled much of 2018 for Lomax but the big outside back still managed eight games for the Dragons in NSW Cup scoring seven tries, setting up three more and busting 18 tackles.

Still well in the cheapie bargain bin thanks to playing just two matches in the NRL last year (one of those a five minute zero point cameo off the bench in round 10 and the other a full 80 minutes in round 25 where he scored 43 points with four goals and a last touch), Lomax looks to have the inside running for a starting gig in the Dragons’ depleted backline.

Kyle Flanagan (Sharks)

Position: Five-eighth/HFB

Price: $213,300

With Matt Moylan set to vacate his halves position to cover for the NFL-bound Valentine Holmes, Flanagan must have fancied his chances of adding to his 2018 tally of one first grade game. So you can imagine he might have felt a little aggrieved when his father Shane Flanagan, Cronulla’s recently banned coach, went out and recruited star half Shaun Johnson to the Sharks.

Before his suspension, Flanagan the elder indicated he sees a role in the first grade team for his son in 2019. “Well it will be Kyle and Johnson, Chad (Townsend the incumbent first grade half) and Johnson, so that’s Chad or Kyle off the bench — something like that can happen. I haven’t got another hooker. I don’t really want to carry another hooker on the bench so I need some utility value with my 6, 7 and even 9 if I have to.” Another string to Flanagan’s bow is his goalkicking — an area of weakness for the Sharks — with the youngster slotting 72 goals at 72 per cent accuracy in the NSW Cup in 2018.

Corey Allan (Rabbitohs)

Price: $168,100

How good is Allan? In 2018 he become the first player to be picked in the Prime Minister’s XIII before making his NRL debut. Tagged as a future Queensland Origin representative from a young age, Allan played Queensland under 20s (2017) and under 18s (2016) and Junior Kangaroos in 2017 and 2018.

When asked to step up against men in the Intrust Super Cup Allan did not disappoint. In 17 games he averaged over 100 running metres per game and scored nine tries, assisting in six more and busting 62 tackles.

Payne Haas (Broncos)

Price: $181,100

A big man with a big future, Haas played three games off the bench for the Broncos between round 8-10, though he only played 37 total minutes across those three matches. In round 10 Haas suffered a dislocated shoulder which ended his season but in seven games before that Haas averaged 4.7 tackle breaks and a little better than one offload per game. Pencilled in for at least a bench role to start the season, Haas should be a good slow-burn money maker in 2019.

Albert Hopoate (Sea Eagles)

Position: FLB/CTW

Price: $168,100

The son of John and brother of Canterbury star Will has been rewarded for his form in the NSW junior competitions over the past two seasons with selection in Manly’s NRL squad for 2019. Having knocked back a chance to represent Australia at the Olympics in Rugby Sevens, Hopoate is a genuine chance to nab a place on the wing for Manly so start the season and were he to do so would be very hard to omit from your squad to start the year.

Corey Waddell (Sea Eagles)

Position: 2RF

Price: $168,100

A Penrith junior and member of the Panthers’ premiership-winning U20s team in 2015 and their 2017 Intrust NSW Cup premiership winning side, Waddell’s move to Manly may be the change the hardworking backrower needs in order to make the move up to NRL.

Before Waddell’s season was cut short just nine games into 2018 he posted impressive NSW Cup numbers averaging 30 tackles per game, 14.7 runs per game — for a return of 147 metres (55 of which came after contact) and 4.2 tackle breaks. Depth is a real issue for the Sea Eagles in 2019 and Waddell must fancy his chances of finally cracking the NRL in 2019.

Hayze Perham (Warriors)

Position: FLB/HFB

Price: $168,100

A star at fullback for the Warriors’ NSW Cup side in 2018, Perham has been earmarked as a potential replacement for departing halfback Shaun Johnson in 2019. A schoolboy rugby union star, Perham played 21 games in the NSW Cup last year scoring six tries, assisting in eight more, averaging just under three tackle breaks and 121 running metres per game.

Perhaps not quite the natural replacement for Johnson as the name below, the Warriors are well aware of the talent he possesses and the threat that union presents as the code seeks to lure him back to the 15 man game and will be keen to blood him in the NRL sooner rather than later.

Chanel Harris-Tavita (Warriors)

Position: HFB/Five-eighth

Price: $168,100

The other youngster named most often when discussion turns to replacements for Shaun Johnson is 2017 NYC Player of the Year Harris-Tavita. The youngster stepped up to NSW Cup in 2018 playing 20 matches at five-eighth and impressed with both a dangerous running game that saw him cross for seven tries and a passing game that saw him record nine try assists and 10 line break assists. CHT also brings a more than handy kicking game, which may give him the edge over Perham.

Ryan Papenhuyzen (Storm)

Price: $168,100

A former Balmain junior, Papenhuyzen earned junior Origin and Australian schoolboy honours before being snaffled by the Storm as a potential long-term replacement for recently retired fullback Billy Slater. Papenhuyzen spent 2018 training with the Storm during the week and then flying up to Queensland to play for the Sunshine Coast Falcons in the Intrust Super Cup.

In his 15 appearances for the Falcons, Papenhuyzen scored three tries, assisted nine and busted 52 tackles on his way to averaging 122 running metres per game. The Storm have plenty of options at fullback with Cameron Munster, Jahrome Hughes and Scott Drinkwater all in the running, so Papenhuyzen is one for your watchlist as opposed to team list to start 2019.

 

[Connoisseur]

Maika Sivo (Eels)

Price: $168,100

He’s not a like-for-like replacement for Semi Radradra but the comparisons are coming in thick and fast. It’s easy to see why when the Fijian flyer is 192cm tall and weighs 103kg. Like Semi before him, Sivo has been making a habit of trampling over his opponents on the way to the tryline.

Caleb Aekins (Panthers)

Position: Fullback

Price: $217,100

The Penrith youngster had a cracker of a 2018 season which saw him claim Intrust Super Premiership Player of the Year honours in his first season in reserve grade. Aekins made the most runs of any player in the competition — and it wasn’t even close. In 23 matches, Aekins ran 436 times netting 4,306 metres (936 of these kick return metres), 1280 post contact metres, 10 linebreaks, 26 offloads and an incredible 111 tackle breaks.

Aekins also played one game in the NRL in round 18 2018, making 277 metres, seven tackle breaks and a linebreak against the Sharks. Competition for the fullback position is fierce at the Panthers with Kiwi international Dallin Watene-Zelezniak and future star Dylan Edwards both having strong claims but Penrith surely cannot leave this young kid in NSW Cup for much longer.

William Kennedy (Sharks)

Price: $168,100

Cronulla coach Shane Flanagan has made it clear that Matt Moylan will receive first shot at the now vacant fullback role, and mentioned Josh Dugan as another contender. Should the Sharks be forced to look further afield however, NSW Cup star William Kennedy may get his chance.

The son of bush footy legend and former Balmain Tiger William “Bubba” Kennedy, the Bathurst junior was a standout in Cronulla’s minor-premiership winning Holden Cup side in 2017. He took the next step this season, starring at the back for Newtown in NSW Cup with 14 tries and 15 try assists in 25 games along with 12 linebreaks, 16 linebreak assists and 65 tackle breaks.

Patrick Carrigan (Broncos)

Position: FRF/2RF

Price: $168,100

A versatile forward, the hard running Queenslander played 21 games for Wynnum Manly Seagulls in the Queensland Cup in 2018 rotating between second row, prop and lock. Carrigan averaged 62 minutes per game and he doesn’t shirk the work making 14 hit-ups per game (for an average of 143 running metres) and 28 effective tackles.

There are attacking stats on offer too with 59 tackle breaks and 27 offloads to go with that base. The Broncos boast a plethora of fine young forwards so Carrigan is unlikely to make an impact straight away but keep an eye on the kid.

Patrick Mago (Broncos)

Price: $196,900

Still a ‘cheapie’ despite playing 11 games for the Broncos in 2018 in which he averaged 20 points per game at a PPM of 0.93. More than handy at Intrust Super Cup level, Mago played 12 matches for Souths Logan in 2018 averaging 22 tackles, 100 running metres and a little more than four tackle breaks per game. Despite that, it’s hard to recommend Mago over Payne Haas (see above) who is $15K cheaper and scores at a better PPM.

George Fai (Broncos)

Price: $181,100

The hulking prop has played just two games for the Broncos — one in 2017 and one in 2018 — a victim of Brisbane’s forward depth. Fai will be 22-years-old at the start of 2019 and one gets the feeling it is now or never for him to make the transition from Souths Logan in the QRL Intrust Super Cup to NRL.

The big man played 20 games for Souths Logan last year averaging 10 hit-ups and 117 running metres per game. 2018 saw Fai add some good attacking/evasive stats to his base workload with 109 tackle breaks, 21 offloads and six tries. Behind some of those listed above, Fai is nonetheless one for your watchlist.

Renouf Toomaga (Bulldogs)

Position: 2RF

Price: $196,900

Still qualifying as a cheapie despite having played four games in the NRL last year is the man named after former Queensland great Steve Renouf. The Bulldogs think enough of Toomaga to have tied him up until the end of 2020 and the young Kiwi is hungry for another taste of first grade. Toomaga’s 2018 NSW Cup stats are certainly impressive reading with the second-rower averaging almost 24 tackles, 12 hit-ups, just under four tackle breaks and just over one offload per match.

That said the Bulldogs were already strong in the backrow with Josh Jackson, Rhyse Martin, Raymond Faitala-Mariner and Adam Elliott demanding big minutes and then quality recruits Corey Harawira-Naera and Sauaso Sue having joined the team for 2019, so Toomaga is no walk up start.

Corey Horsburgh (Raiders)

Position: 2RF

Price: $168,100

Corey Horsburgh heads to the Raiders from North Queensland with big raps, with the gingernut likened to Corey Parker for his high workrate and Josh McGuire for his aggression. And to add to that high praise, our office resident Raiders fanatic Nick Campton says the kid is ‘a weapon.’

Selected in the Junior Kangaroos at the end of 2018, Horsburgh played a blinder against the Junior Kiwis making 18 runs, 32 tackles, three tackle breaks and four offloads. Big enough at 188 centimetres and 100 kilograms to play prop and with a sufficient motor to play lock, Queensland State of Origin Under-20 representative Horsburgh has plenty of talented players in front of him at the Raiders right now but an NRL debut in 2019 would not shock.

Jesse Arthars (Titans)

Position: FLB/CTW

Price: $168,100

Gold Coast recruit Jesse Arthars heads to Queensland after stints in the Melbourne Storm and South Sydney systems. Injury limited the Kiwi-born flyer early on in 2018 and he only played six games in the NSW Cup last year. What a six games they were though with Arthars scoring seven tries, setting up another, busting 17 tackles and even kicking three goals from four attempts for good measure. With the ability to play fullback, centre or wing, Arthars adds depth and versatility to the Titans and it would not surprise to see him make his NRL debut at some point in 2019.


Tino Fa’asuamaleaui (Storm)

Position: 2RF

Price: $168,100

Standing 197cm and weighing 107kgs, no finer judge than our colleague, and SuperCoach dark horse, Fatima Kdouh says Fa’asuamaleaui has the all the makings of an NRL forward — big, strong and aggressive. Fa’asuamaleaui played 14 games for the Eastern Suburbs Tigers in the QRL Cup in 2018 mostly as an impact interchange player.

However, he did play one 80 minute effort and in that game made 24 tackles, 11 runs for 120 metres and two tackle breaks. Not-so-tiny Tino turns 19 in February and there are plenty of quality backrowers ahead of him at the Storm so you feel he’ll likely be a development project for Craig Bellamy and the Melbourne coaching team in 2019.

Tom Eisenhuth (Storm)

Position: 2RF/CTW

Price: $168,100

Big enough to play 2RF, and yet fast enough to play centre, Eisenhuth spent the first half of 2018 in the backs for Penrith and then after being transferred to the Storm in June played 2RF for the Sunshine Coast Falcons in the Intrust Super Cup.

In eight games for the Falcons, Eisenhuth scored three tries, made 31 tackle breaks, 16 offloads and averaged just short of 35 tackles per game. As mentioned above, there are plenty of quality 2RFs standing in the way of any player hoping to crack the Storm’s NRL side, leaving Eisenhuth as strictly watchlist material at this stage.

Reuben Garrick (Sea Eagles)

Price: $168,100

The bustling centre turns 22 in 2019 and after five years in the St George system he opted to head north to the Northern Beaches to seek a better chance of making his NRL debut. Garrick made 21 appearances last season, scoring 10 tries, assisting in eight more while making 12 line breaks and 55 tackle breaks. There are spots up for grabs at the Sea Eagles right now — keep an eye on Garrick this pre-season.

Brodie Jones (Knights)

Position: 2RF

Price: $168,100

Quorrobolong’s very own Brodie Jones is a quality youngster from the Hunter Region rugby league factory. Named on the Knights’ extended bench in round 23 as a reward for strong form in the NSW Cup, the youngster may struggle to get that close in 2019 after Newcastle significantly strengthened their squad in the o***eason.

However, the Cheapie Bible is not about certainty it’s about hope, and Jones’ 2018 NSW Cup figures give every indication he’d be SuperCoach relevant should his prayers be answered and he earn a crack at the NRL. Jones played 17 games in NSW Cup for the Knights in 2018 scoring seven tries and assisting a further three. Playing 80 minutes on the edge in all but five of those games he averaged* close to 28 tackles per game and almost 80 running metres.

* I have excised his fourth round match from these figures as he was limited to just seven minutes in that match due to injury.

 

[Connoisseur]

Pasami Saulo (Knights)

Position: FRF/2RF

Price: $196,900

Another big bopper who has worked his way through the ranks of the Hunter rugby league region. Saulo shone in the NSW Cup over the back half of 2018 and was duly rewarded with three NRL matches off the bench in rounds 22, 23 and 25. In his three games for the Knights Saulo produced an average of 16 PPG at an unprepossessing average of 0.77 PPM. He’s better than that though. Across his final seven NSW Cup games last year Saulo averaged 49 MPG (starting at prop in all but one of those) at just a tick under 1.0 PPM.

The Knights have recruited strongly in the front row adding Origin stars David Klemmer and Tim Glasby as well as former Warrior James Gavet to a frontrow cohort already boasting rising star Herman Ese’ese and the Saifiti twin towers, so cracking the team will be tough.

Emry Pere (Cowboys)

Price: $168,100

The massive Pere had an impressive season for the Northern Pride in the QRL in 2018 and was rewarded with Junior Kiwi selection for the end of season clash against the Junior Kangaroos. In 24 games with the Pride in 2018 Pere was good without being great averaging 74 metres and a little under 19 tackles per game.

The Cowboys boast a fearsome pack of middle forwards with Jordan McLean, Jason Taumalolo, Matt Scott, Josh McGuire, Scott Bolton, John Asiata et al all ahead of Pere in the pecking order. Just watch for now.

Billy Magoulias (Sharks)

Position: 2RF

Price: $168,100

Billy ‘The Kid’ Magoulias spent 2018 in the NSW Cup, training with — but unable to break in to — the stacked Sharks’ backrow. The retirement of Luke Lewis provides a golden chance for the former Mascot Jets junior to step up into first grade but he still has the likes of Kurt Capewell and Scott Sorensen to compete with.

Often tagged a ‘Paul Gallen clone’, Magoulias played 26 games for the Jets in 2018 and his workrate is very SuperCoach relevant with per-game averages of: 29 tackles, nine hit-ups for 100 metres, two tackle breaks and near enough one offload. Magoulias was a cheapie breakout candidate last year but never got his chance, hopefully 2019 is a different story because he’s too good to not play NRL.

Braden Uele (Sharks)

Price: $196,900

The former Junior Kiwi prop played one NRL game in 2017 for the Cowboys and one for the Sharks in 2018 and all that before his 20th birthday. A bit of a big unit — Uele stands 191 centimetres tall and weighs in at 115 kilograms — he nonetheless had a sufficient motor to play a couple of 80 minute games at second row for the Jets in 2018.

The big man has decent wheels to go with his motor too, just ask the Knights’ NSW Cup side who in round 17 last year had to endure 69 minutes of Uele which saw the youngster rack up a try, 15 tackle breaks, two linebreaks, two offloads, 22 tackles and 209 running metres from 15 carries — a game that would have been good for 125 SuperCoach points. Sure the Sharks forward pack is deep but should injuries strike and Uele get a call up he’s good for over 1.0-1.25 PPM. All he needs is the ‘M’ part of the equation to deliver.

Mikaele Ravalawa (Dragons)

Price: $168,100

The former Raiders under-20 Player of the Year ripped it up for Canberra’s NSW Cup side Mounties with 11 tries, 13 linebreaks and 66 tackle breaks in just 13 games. Benched by the Mounties at the midpoint of the season after declaring he would join the Dragons in 2019, the Fijian international is a genuine contender to gain NRL experience as the Dragons need to replace first-graders Nene Macdonald and Jason Nightingale.

Thomas Mikaele (Tigers)

Price: $168,100

The Keebra Park product stands at 194cm and at 20 years old is still growing into his massive frame. He has been promoted into the top 30 roster from the development squad this year edging him a step closer to his first grade debut. Mikaele was twice selected to the Under 20s Emerging Maroons after starring in the Tigers’ Jersey Flegg side.

 

[Herbie66]

This game will do your head in trying to navigate the bye rounds and then when players are missing for SOG.

Hope you like ? ? ?

 

[Connoisseur]

NRL predicted teams for 2019, with SuperCoach analysis
JANUARY 09, 2019
Predicted teams for NRL 2019.
BRONCOS

1. Darius Boyd, 2. Corey Oates, 3. Jack Bird, 4. James Roberts, 5. Jamayne Isaako, 6. Anthony Milford, 7. Kodi Nikorima, 8. Joe Ofahengaue, 9. Andrew McCullough, 10. Matt Lodge, 11. Matt Gillett, 12. Alex Glenn, 13. Tevita Pangai Junior. Interchange: 14. Kotoni Staggs, 15. Payne Haas, 16. Jaydn Su’A, 17. David Fifita

Analysis: Wayne Bennett out, Anthony Seibold in, hopefully that means increased minutes for Tevita Pangai Jnr ($495,500). Pangai’s minutes are likely to jump significantly from the 50 he averaged last season, with an 80-minute role a genuine possibility. Last year’s boom rookie Jamayne Isaako ($521,300) is priced out of the game, but will leap into contention should he replace Darius Boyd at fullback with goal-kicking duties in toe.

Jack Bird ($320,900) averaged 58 points in 2015, but he’s been on the decline ever since. However a cheap price tag and dual CTW/2RF status makes him an enticing prospect. Awkwardly priced out of cheapie range, Bird’s ownership could skyrocket in Round 3 with a strong start to the season.

Payne Haas ($181,100) is already the second most owned player after figuring in just three games in his debut season, before a shoulder injury ended his year. Haas averaged just 12.3 minutes under Bennett, so hopefully the shackles will be released under Seibold.

Currently owned by under six per cent, Anthony Milford ($511,900) looms as a massive POD for Round 1. Many will steer clear after a lacklustre 2018 by his standards, but the livewire five-eighth could be another set to benefit from Seibold. The former South Sydney coach gave Cody Walker a free rein to play off the cuff football, and he could do the same with Milford who plays a similar style. If he does, The Milf could return to levels that saw him average above 65 points every season from 2014-2017.

BULLDOGS

1. Nick Meaney, 2. Christian Crichton, 3. Will Hopoate, 4. Kerrod Holland, 5. Reimis Smith, 6. Lachlan Lewis, 7. Kieran Foran, 8. Dylan Napa, 9. Michael Lichaa, 10. Aiden Tolman, 11. Josh Jackson, 12. Raymond Faitala-Mariner 13. Rhyse Martin. Interchange:14. Jeremy Marshall-King, 15. Corey Harawira-Naera, 16. Adam Elliott, 17. Sauaso Sue

Analysis: Canterbury’s starting roster is very much up in the air, with the quality of Kieran Foran’s return to play a significant role in shaping it. Foran likely starts the year at halfback alongside Lachlan Lewis at five-eighth, however recruit Jack Cogger is waiting in the wings should the veteran’s body fail to hold up.

Despite an awkward price based on five games last season, SuperCoaches will be hoping talented recruit Nick Meaney ($281,500) wins the fullback role over Will Hopoate ($556,000). Hopoate flies under the radar every season, finishing 2018 with an average of 59.42. He’s again a decent option with a strong base, however much will hinge on whether he’s at fullback or centre.

Rhyse Martin ($634,300) is an animal and is worth every cent of his hefty price tag. He could be a lock in sides for the entire season with the rare bonus of being an exceptionally gifted goal-kicking forward. In a Jordan Rapana-like mould, POD option Reimis Smith ($487,400) has gun potential. Unfortunately his spot on the end of a backline lacking precision will likely reduce his attacking stats.

An interesting prospect is former Panther Corey Harawira-Naera ($401,100). In 2017 the edge back-rower averaged 59 points in 72 minutes, then in 2018 he averaged 43 points in 57 minutes. He’s a chance at winning a starting role for the Dogs, which would bring him right into SuperCoach calculations with increased game time.

COWBOYS

1. Ben Barba, 2. Kyle Feldt, 3. Enari Tuala, 4. Ben Hampton, 5. Nene Macdonald, 6. Jake Clifford, 7. Michael Morgan, 8. Josh McGuire, 9. Jake Granville, 10. Jordan McLean, 11. Gavin Cooper, 12. Coen Hess, 13. Jason Taumalolo. Interchange: 14. Te Maire Martin, 15. John Asiata, 16. Ethan Lowe, 17. Matt Scott

Analysis: Ben Barba ($467,300) is the man of mystery to begin the SuperCoach season. The reigning Super League Man of Steel (player of the year) scored 28 tries for St Helens last season, assisted 24, broke 141 tackles and had 30 linebreaks. In his last season in the NRL with Cronulla in 2016, Barba averaged 62 points per game. Priced over $200k less than Tom Trbojevic and James Tedesco, Barba could have a major impact on early rankings should he ignite or fizzle in Townsville.

Little needs to be said of Jason Taumalolo ($657,400), he’s a reliable option but could be worth waiting for a potential price drop. The Cowboys don’t leave the heat of Queensland until Round 6, so there’s a chance Taumalolo could see reduced minutes as match fitness kicks in.

Jake Clifford ($348,100) is a little awkwardly priced for a rookie, while Michael Morgan ($409,200) is a genuine POD without Johnathan Thurston running the side. Base stat beast Josh McGuire ($473,600) has averaged around 60 points for most of his career, placing him just outside keeper range. Don’t expect this to change significantly at the Cowboys.

DRAGONS

1. Gareth Widdop, 2. Jordan Pereira, 3. Euan Aitken, 4. Tim Lafai, 5. Zac Lomax, 6. Corey Norman, 7. Ben Hunt, 8. James Graham, 9. Cameron McInness, 10. Paul Vaughan, 11. Tariq Sims, 12. Tyson Frizell, 13. Jack de Belin. Interchange: 14. Matt Dufty, 15. Korbin Sims, 16. Blake Lawrie, 17. Luciano Leilua

Analysis: Zac Lomax ($196,900) is understandably the most owned player in the game with the exits of Nene Macdonald, Jason Nightingale and Kurt Mann from the club. The Temora junior looks assured of a starting role at centre or wing making him a must-have to start the year.

It’s unknown how Gareth Widdop’s ($553,400) shift to fullback will impact his SuperCoach output. His enormous ceiling always makes him tempting, but it’s a lot of cash to splash on a man with uncertainties. Euan Aitken ($481,300) is always a solid option with a great base, but cheapies are preferred early on. Tim Lafai ($419,500) is a perennial disappointment, while Corey Norman ($448,700) is a wait and watch.

EELS

1. Clint Gutherson, 2. George Jennings, 3. Michael Jennings, 4. Brad Taikarangi 5. Blake Ferguson, 6. Jaeman Salmon, 7. Mitchell Moses, 8. Junior Paulo, 9. Reed Mahoney, 10.Daniel Alvaro, 11. Manu Ma’u, 12. Shaun Lane, 13. Nathan Brown. Interchange: 14. Peni Terepo, 15. Marata Niukore, 16. Tim Mannah, 17. Will Smith

Analysis: Either Dylan Brown ($168,100) or Jaeman Salmon ($210,500) will be among the most owned players depending on who wins the Round 1 halves role. Blake Ferguson ($611,700) is priced on a 65.4 point average having benefited from playing on the end of the premiership winning Roosters backline. Despite his exceptional base stats, he’s an avoid to start the year with a reduction in attacking stats almost certain. That being said, wait for his price to bottom out before picking him up cheap later in the year.

Shaun Lane ($508,000) is a serious buy prospect if given an 80-minute edge role in a pack lacking strike-power. Lane averaged 54 points in 54 minutes with Manly last season, meaning increased game time could lead to a price spike with upside. A fully fit Nathan Brown ($582,000) is a SuperCoach beast and an option for Round 1 if we get word on his likely minutes. You can’t afford to stack a side with players heavily reliant on attacking stats, making someone like Brown a great man to balance teams.

Available at CTW/FLB, Clint Gutherson ($439,300) is an option with a season under his belt since rupturing his ACL in 2017. In the same year he averaged 67 points, so he could be under-priced but needs to win the goal-kicking duties over Mitch Moses to be a genuine option.

 

[Connoisseur]

KNIGHTS

1. Connor Watson, 2. Edrick Lee, 3. Hymel Hunt, 4. Jesse Ramien, 5. Shaun Kenny-Dowall, 6. Kalyn Ponga, 7. Mitchell Pearce, 8. Tim Glasby, 9. Kurt Mann, 10. David Klemmer, 11. Sione Mata’utia, 12. Lachlan Fitzgibbon, 13. Aidan Guerra. Interchange: 14. Jamie Buhrer, 15. Daniel Saifiti, 16. Herman Ese’ese, 17. James Gavet

Analysis: Wait on a Kalyn Ponga price drop or hook in early? The latter, the kid nearly won the Dally M Medal in his debut season. While he’s sure to get worked over in defence at five-eighth, the additional tackles will boost his base stats. A few poor scores late in the year, including a five point injury hit game, kept him at a reasonable price this season. Ponga’s dual position status gives owners the luxury of owning him, Tedesco and Trbojevic, but perhaps not all to begin the year.

A switch to fullback could potentially launch an injury-free Connor Watson ($537,100) into keeper status, but it’d be brave to start the year with him. Lachlan Fitzgibbon ($576,100) is a POD option, but it could be worth waiting to see if he plays on Ponga’s edge following their brilliant combination last season.

PANTHERS

1. Dylan Edwards, 2. Dallin Watene-Zelezniak, 3. Dean Whare, 4. Waqa Blake, 5. Josh Mansour, 6. James Maloney, 7. Nathan Cleary, 8. Reagan Campbell-Gillard, 9. Sione Katoa, 10. James Tamou, 11. Viliame Kikau, 12. Isaah Yeo, 13. James Fisher-Harris. Interchange: 14. Tyrone May, 15. Kaide Ellis, 16. Jack Hetherington, 17. Moses Leota

Analysis: Nathan Cleary ($577,000) is priced on a respectable average of 62 points per game in 2018. Barring injury, there’s no reason the maturing half can’t eclipse that in 2019. Cleary averaged 66 points in 2016 and 70 points in 2017. Many coaches have been caught out stacking their halves with expensive playmakers to start the year that rely on attacking stats. Cleary is a more risk-free option with a greater base than the likes of Milford, Johnson and Walker.

After being eased into the top grade last season, Viliame Kikau ($570,400) became an 80-minute edge back-rower for Penrith. Should Ivan Cleary continue this, Kikau’s 69 minute average should increase, making him slightly under-priced to start the year. Kikau has one of the largest ceilings of any forward, making him a terrifying player to not own.


RAIDERS

1. Jack Wighton, 2. Nick Cotric, 3. Jarrod Croker, 4. Joey Leilua, 5. Michael Oldfield, 6. Aidan Sezer, 7. Sam Williams, 8. Josh Papalii, 9. Josh Hodgson, 10. Sia Soliola, 11. Elliott Whitehead, 12. Joseph Tapine, 13. John Bateman. Interchange: 14. Siliva Havili, 15. Ryan Sutton, 16. Emre Guler, 17. Luke Bateman

Analysis: The roles of Jarrod Croker ($509,700) and Joey Leilua ($477,200) haven’t altered in recent years. They’re both reasonable options with strong pedigrees. Josh Papalii ($595,900) somehow stays under the radar every season despite having averaged above 63 for the past three years. He is a strong POD option for those expecting a strong season from the Queensland rep.

Short-listed for the Golden Boot, Englishman John Bateman ($400,000) looks a great prospect according to his Super League stats. Across 27 games, Bateman averaged 23 tackles, 16.4 runs, 2.4 offloads and 4.4 tackle breaks. Factor in his ability to amass attacking stats and we’ve got what appears, at least on paper, to be a SuperCoach star. If Bateman plays 50+ minutes, which is a reasonably safe assumption, he looms as a terrific buy. If he plays 60+, or potentially 80 minutes, he’ll be a must-have for every side to start the year with keeper potential. Furthermore, Bateman’s $400k price tag equates to an average of approximately 40 points per game.

Former Wigan teammate Ryan Sutton ($320,000) is one to avoid unless promoted into a starting role. Joe Tapine ($590,100) averaged 63 points last season and is a serious POD option to start the year.


RABBITOHS

1. Alex Johnston, 2. Campbell Graham, 3. Greg Inglis, 4. Dane Gagai, 5. Robert Jennings, 6. Cody Walker, 7. Adam Reynolds, 8. George Burgess, 9. Damien Cook, 10. Tom Burgess, 11. John Sutton, 12. Sam Burgess, 13. Cameron Murray. Interchange: 14. Adam Doueihi, 15. Dean Britt, 16. Tevita Tatola, 17. Mark Nicholls

Analysis: Cody Walker’s ($569,200) expansive game makes him exhilarating to own, however Wayne Bennett could rein in the livewire playmaker. He’s probably an avoid to start the year, but let’s keep an eye out for any changes to his role under Bennett during preseason.

How will Bennett impact 2018’s top scorer Damien Cook ($726,600)? Surely he’ll utilise the dummy-half in the identical role that earned him rep honours last season. Like Cameron Smith in his prime, Cook is probably just a set and forget option from Round 1.

Cameron Murray ($458,900) will be hugely popular with his game time set to soar from an average of 48 to 80 minutes. Murray scores at around one point per minute, meaning his 49 point average from last season could easily surpass 60+ making him a lock with keeper potential.

Off-field issues and a likely return to an edge could make Sam Burgess ($560,000) a wait and see in the early stage of the year. Provided he remains in the No.1 jersey, Alex Johnston ($488,800) is a quality option with enormous upside as he continues to develop as a fullback.

ROOSTERS

1. James Tedesco, 2. Daniel Tupou, 3. Latrell Mitchell, 4. Joseph Manu, 5. Brett Morris, 6. Luke Keary, 7. Cooper Cronk, 8. Jared Waerea-Hargreaves, 9. Jake Friend, 10. Sio Suia Taukeiaho, 11. Angus Crichton, 12. Boyd Cordner, 13. Victor Radley. Interchange: 14. Mitch Aubusson, 15. Zane Tetevano, 16. Lindsay Collins, 17. Isaac Liu

Analysis: It’d take a brave coach to leave James Tedesco ($689,000) out of Round 1 teams. The star fullback averaged 73.64 last season, a number that could easily improve as his combination with the Roosters spine continues to grow. Don’t get tricky, lock him in or risk being left behind early.

You could go either way with Latrell Mitchell ($595,000) for all the same reasons as Tedesco. The boom centre is more likely to deliver a few low scores early on, so there’s a case to be made on leaving him out to begin the year. You can’t start with every gun, so Latrell could be one to bypass before becoming a priority target should his price drop.

Angus Crichton ($646,900) is similar to Latrell in that he looms as a player to avoid early on. While he’ll become a must-have at some point, it could take time for the former Rabbit to gel with the men around him.

Ryan Matterson’s departure opens up a big minute role for fan favourite Victor Radley ($400,700). Priced on a 43 point average, Radley looks great value with the expectation he’ll vastly improve on his 44 minutes per game from 2018. Crichton and skipper Boyd Cordner will play full games on the edge, meaning Radley could be set for 60+ minutes in the middle.

SEA EAGLES

1. Tom Trbojevic, 2. Jorge Taufua, 3. Dylan Walker, 4. Moses Suli, 5. Albert Hopoate, 6. Kane Elgey, 7. Daly Cherry-Evans, 8. Martin Taupau, 9. Api Koroisau, 10. Addin Fonua-Blake, 11. Joel Thompson, 12. Curtis Sironen, 13. Jake Trbojevic. Interchange: 14. Trent Hodkinson, 15. Taniela Paseka, 16. Kelepi Tanginoa, 17. Jack Gosiewski

Analysis: Many coaches will start with Tom Trbojevic ($691,200) and James Tedesco at the back. Owning the star duo will take up a major chunk of the salary cap, but they’re priced through the roof for good reason. It’d take a brave owner to look for value elsewhere, but SuperCoach is all about taking chances.

Lock in teen star Albert Hopoate ($168,100) who looks set for a wing role with Brian Kelly and Akuila Uate leaving the club. Hopoate’s job security could further increase with Dylan Walker’s future in the NRL under a cloud.

Martin Taupau ($605,100) averaged 64.67 points last season and is a reliable purchase with upside. While not necessarily renowned for major attacking stats, Taupau failed to score a try in 2018, had one try-assist and one line-assist. If the rampaging prop can notch a few additional attacking stats he can be the elite gun we’ve expected for many years.

There’s little to be said about Jake Trbojevic ($667,600), he’s reliable with massive upside and will be a must-have at some point in the season. Curtis Sironen ($398,600) pricks the ears with a reduced price due to playing just four games last season before rupturing his ACL. Sironen is expected to lock in a starting back-row role in a Manly pack lacking serious competition for spots. He’s averaged 73 minutes the last two seasons for returns of 53 and 56 points per game. Despite this, he’s priced at an average score of around 42 points.

 

[Connoisseur]

SHARKS

1. Matt Moylan, 2. Sosaia Feki, 3. Josh Dugan, 4. Josh Morris, 5. Sione Katoa, 6. Chad Townsend, 7. Shaun Johnson, 8. Andrew Fifita, 9. Jayden Brailey, 10. Matt Prior, 11. Kurt Capewell, 12. Scott Sorensen, 13. Paul Gallen. Interchange: 14. Aaron Woods, 15. Jack Williams, 16. Jayson Bukuya. 17. James Segeyaro

Analysis: Matt Moylan’s ($483,500) switch to fullback, with dual five-eighth positioning, makes him an intriguing prospect at decent value. He played 10 games at the back for Penrith to begin 2017 and averaged 62.2 points, with his last three scores 87, 103 and 101. He also had two games at the back for Cronulla early last year for returns of 83 and 22. Moylan played full seasons in the position in 2015 and 2016 where he notched impressive averages of 61 and 63 respectively.

It may not be a popular opinion, but Shaun Johnson ($603,000) looks a massive gamble to start the year. He’ll likely be a must-have at some stage in 2019, but it’s a difficult task for any playmaker to immediately forge combinations with a new side. He’s priced towards his peak, so it’s not a bad idea to risk him early with an eye on picking him up cheaper at a later stage.

Highly regarded youngster Bronson Xerri ($168,100) is a chance at nabbing a wing spot for Round 1. If he does, he’ll be a must-have for every team. Andrew Fifita ($634,300) is probably worth risking early in the season before hopefully being picked up at a discount prior to Origin. Luke Lewis has retired and Wade Graham isn’t due back for several months, opening up both back-row roles. Kurt Capewell ($340,100) and Scott Sorensen ($347,800) averaged 55 and 56 minutes respectively last season. Let’s wait for preseason mail, but if they lock in 80 minute roles they’re decent mid-range options.

STORM

1. Jahrome Hughes, 2. Josh Addo-Carr, 3. Will Chambers, 4. Curtis Scott, 5. Suliasi Vunivalu, 6. Cameron Munster, 7. Brodie Croft, 8. Jesse Bromwich, 9. Cameron Smith, 10. Nelson Asofa-Solomona, 11. Joe Stimson, 12. Felise Kaufusi, 13. Dale Finucane. Interchange: 14. Brandon Smith, 15. Christian Welch, 16. Kenny Bromwich, 17. Sam Kasiano

Analysis: Cameron Munster’s ($548,500) popularity will rest heavily on whether he plays fullback or five-eighth. It’s still unknown whether Craig Bellamy wants to play the livewire playmaker at the back or Jahrome Hughes. Munster looks a juicy price should he be shifted to his preferred position, having averaged 69 points per game in the role during Billy Slater’s absence in 2016.

Without Slater or Cronk, Cameron Smith ($594,400) is likely to take up greater playmaking responsibilities in 2019. Many will be worried the veteran could be on the slide after dropping to a 64 point average last season, but let’s not doubt a man who’s yet to break a sweat in his career. A Smith/Cook hooking combination will once again be popular, but there’s a reasonable case to be made on whether or not Smith is essential for Round 1.

Averaging 53 minutes last season, Joe Stimson ($352,900) looks set for an 80-minute back-row role in 2019. In eight games as an 80-minute man last season, Stimson averaged a respectable 50.5 points per game. Based on the same numbers, Stimson should make around $130k before being moved on to a keeper.

TITANS

1. AJ Brimson, 2. Anthony Don, 3. Tyrone Peachey, 4. Brian Kelly, 5. Phillip Sami, 6. Tyrone Roberts, 7. Ash Taylor, 8. Shannon Boyd, 9. Nathan Peats, 10. Jarrod Wallace, 11. Kevin Proctor, 12. Ryan James, 13. Jai Arrow. Interchange: 14. Mitch Rein, 15. Keegan Hipgrave, 16. Moeaki Fotuaika, 17. Bryce Cartwright

Analysis: Do we again dare to party with Carty or do we leave that ship in the past where deep down we all know it belongs? Bryce Cartwright’s ($238,300) horrendous season has him well entrenched in cheapie range to begin the season. We’re talking about a 24-year-old who in 2016 was the second highest scorer in SuperCoach. Should form and minutes permit, he could be the most purchased player prior to Round 3 price rises, or alternatively the most sold.

Jai Arrow ($598,000) looks a genuine set and forget option for the entire year. He’s relatively well-priced due to his niggling injuries that limited his game time to 55 minutes last season. Fully fit in a side lacking depth outside the starting pack, Arrow could easily play a 65+ minute role in 2019.

WARRIORS

1. Roger Tuivasa-Sheck, 2. David Fusitu’a, 3. Peta Hiku, 4. Solomone Kata, 5. Ken Maumalo, 6. Blake Green, 7. Chanel Harris-Tavita, 8. Leeson Ah Mau, 9. Issac Luke, 10. Agnatius Paasi, 11. Isaiah Papali’I, 12. Tohu Harris, 13. Adam Blair. Interchange: 14. Jazz Tevaga, 15. Sam Lisone, 16. Bunty Afoa, 17. Leivaha Pulu

Analysis: Whoever replaces Shaun Johnson out of Chanel Harris-Tavita ($168,100), Adam Keighran ($168,100) and Hayze Perham ($168,100) will skyrocket in ownership. Tohu Harris ($564,400) will be significantly affected by Johnson’s departure. The right edge pair forged a great combination last season, with Harris benefiting enormously from attacking stats. Due to the change of combination, Harris looks an avoid early on.

TIGERS

1. Moses Mbye, 2. Corey Thompson, 3. Mahe Fonua, 4. Esan Marsters, 5. David Nofoaluma, 6. Benji Marshall, 7. Luke Brooks, 8. Russell Packer, 9. Robbie Farah, 10. Ben Matulino, 11. Chris Lawrence, 12. Ryan Matterson, 13. Elijah Taylor. Interchange: 14. Josh Reynolds, 15. Alex Twal, 16. Matt Eisenhuth, 17. Michael Chee-Kam

Analysis: Esan Marsters ($568,500) was the breakout star last season, finishing as arguably the most reliable CTW. He’s another set and forget option provided he retains the goal-kicking duties, but if a plethora of backline cheapies emerge the money could be spent elsewhere.

Despite looking likely to increase his regular minutes from 69 per game to 80, sadly Ryan Matterson ($521,500) looks like one to avoid after losing his dual 2RF/CTW status. Mahe Fonua ($483,800) is a beast and has the base stats to warrant selection. Former Rooster Paul Momirovski ($238,600) looks a strong cheapie should he crack the top grade at any stage.

 

[Verbal Kint]

Thanks for posting that mate

 

[IDIG]

Very helpful Connoisseur!

Pookus, is this Comp similar to AFL SC and we should be aiming for GnR if rookies permit?

 

[Verbal Kint]

Very helpful Connoisseur!

Pookus, is this Comp similar to AFL SC and we should be aiming for GnR if rookies permit?

This would be my approach. I will sprinkle in some mid price madness though depending on value. Stimson for example

 

[siwel]

I'm in

 

[IDIG]

This would be my approach. I will sprinkle in some mid price madness though depending on value. Stimson for example

Thx mate. Not sure who Stinson is but I’m gonna pretend I do and add him to my shortlist of players

 

[Connoisseur]

Thx mate. Not sure who Stinson is but I’m gonna pretend I do and add him to my shortlist of players

Been playing around a bit but I think I've went too mid priced as I've currently got T Pangai, C Murray, V Radley, M Morgan, C Gutherson, J Bateman, B Barba and M Moylan all between 400,000 to 500,000.

Also found a website that has articles on club previews and players of interest which should be beneficial.
https://www.nrlsupercoachtalk.com/