News Herald Sun SuperCoach Articles

[NT.Thunder]

FREMANTLE

B: Luke Ryan, Brennan Cox, Hayden Young

HB: Reece Conca, Griffin Logue, Stephen Hill

C: James Aish, Andrew Brayshaw, Blake Acres

HF: Michael Walters, Matt Taberner, Caleb Serong

F: Darcy Tucker, Rory Lobb, Brandon Matera

FOLL: Sean Darcy, Nat Fyfe Adam Cerra

I/C: Ethan Hughes, Travis Colyer, Brett Bewley, Connor Blakely

WHO MISSED OUT

Taylin Duman, Alex Pearce, Bailey Banfield, Stefan Giro, Cam McCarthy, Liam Henry

INJURY WARD

– Jesse Hogan is taking time away from football to deal with mental health issues.

– The Dockers are waiting on the results of scans after Blake Acres hurt his hamstring.

– David Mundy is still recovering from a broken leg.

– Alex Pearce has ruled himself out for Round 1.

– Joel Hamling faces a battle to feature in the first half of the season with an ankle injury

– Nathan Wilson is suffering from turf toe and is unlikely to play Round 1.

RALPHY SAYS

So many spots up for grabs for a Fremantle side force-feeding games into the kids and having to replace Brad Hill, Ed Langdon and potentially Jesse Hogan.

Newbies James Aish and Blake Acres made an instant splash against Carlton on the weekend as replacements on the wing. However, Acres suffered a hamstring injury at training this week but has not yet been ruled out for Round 1.

The Dockers are keen to play Brennan Cox as a key defender given their injury issues, while Griffin Logue does special things at times and still could be anything.

Liam Henry is still easing back from a disrupted summer but fellow top 10 pick Caleb Serong hasn’t missed a beat and should play Round 1.

Hayden Young rounds out the trio of top-ten picks but he didn’t play against Carlton so might have to force his way into the Fremantle side early in the season.

GEELONG CATS

B: Mark O’Connor, Mark Blicavs, Jake Kolodjashnij

HB: Tom Stewart, Harry Taylor, Zach Tuohy

C: Jordan Clark, Joel Selwood, Mitch Duncan

HF: Brandan Parfitt, Esava Ratugolea, Gary Ablett

F: Gryan Miers, Tom Hawkins, Luke Dahlhaus

FOLL: Rhys Stanley, Patrick Dangerfield, Jack Steven

I/C: Cameron Guthrie, Josh Jenkins, Jack Henry, Tom Atkins

WHO MISSED OUT

Jed Bews, Lachie Henderson, Zach Guthrie, Quinton Narkle, Sam Menegola, Charlie Constable, James Parsons, Gary Rohan, Lachie Fogarty, Darcy Fort

INJURY WARD

– After a positive start to the pre-season, Nakia Cockatoo is now battling a hamstring injury.

– Joel Selwood won’t play a Marsh Series match but is expected to play in Round 1.

RALPHY SAYS

The nucleus of this side remains the same but that doesn’t mean there aren’t spots up for grabs for Round 1.

Last year Zach Tuohy missed the start of the year and then played forward for a time, while Jed Bews only got back in Round 15 after groin issues.

Jake Kolodjashnij played 23 games for the year and right now is battling hip issues.

But if all of them are fit for Round 1 – with Mark O’Connor, Mark Blicavs and Tom Stewart automatic selections – who is squeezed out? Harry Taylor likely gets the nod again ahead of Lachie Henderson but they are questions Chris Scott will be seeking to answer in the last Marsh Series game. The Cats will probably ease back Kolodjashnij so might not have to make the hard calls yet.

Similarly can the Cats play three tall forwards in Josh Jenkins, Harry Taylor and Esava Ratugolea, or does Ratugolea play so much ruck that he and Stanley share those duties and Jenkins is a mainstay up forward?

Darcy Fort will be another pushing to take Stanley’s spot, which is far from set in concrete given Scott dropped him for his full back in the qualifying final.

Scott probably favours Stanley, but Fort was solid in the Marsh Series game.

Jack Steven will play half forward and if fit enough pinch-hit in the midfield and while Scott urged caution for those believing he will again be a star, we know his best is scintillating.

Tom Atkins played 23 games last year so he surely starts ahead of Gary Rohan, or is there enough room for both of them in this side?

GOLD COAST SUNS

B: Jarrod Harbrow, Rory Thompson, Jack Lukosius

HB: Pearce Hanley, Connor Budarick, Brandon Ellis

C: Lachie Weller, Jack Bowes, Brayden Fiorini

HF: Hugh Greenwood, Ben King, Ben Ainsworth

F: Noah Anderson, Peter Wright, Alex Sexton

FOLL: Jarrod Witts, David Swallow, Matt Rowell

I/C: Touk Miller, Darcy Macpherson, Wil Powell, Peter Wright

WHO MISSED OUT

Corey Ellis, Will Brodie, Sam Flanders, George Horlin-Smith, Anthony Miles, Sam Day, Sam Collins, Sean Lemmens,

INJURY WARD

– Izak Rankine suffered a shoulder injury in the pre-season.

– Charlie Ballard will be sidelined for around three months after undergoing a shoulder reconstruction.

RALPHY SAYS

Plenty of moving parts in this Gold Coast Suns side given injuries to key backs and the young kids improving quickly.

Charlie Ballard is out with a shoulder reconstruction but against Geelong, little-known Connor Budarick took on that role with aplomb. Can he keep that spot for the season proper?

Jack Bowes is the centreman in this side but he shut-out Gary Ablett playing in the unusual spot of half back in the first Marsh Series game. Izak Rankin has talent to burn but didn’t play in that side despite an encouraging pre-season so it’s hard to pencil him into the Round 1 side.

Pearce Hanley should be a half back star but is still working back from injury niggles, so Brandon Ellis’ continued strong form is a key to the club starting the season well.

Let’s hope Lachie Weller’s strong showing in the Bushfire relief game translates into a bumper season for a player who hasn’t hit the heights expected of him yet.

GWS GIANTS

B: Nick Haynes, Phil Davis, Aidan Corr

HB: Heath Shaw, Sam Taylor, Zac Williams

C: Lachie Whitfield, Stephen Coniglio, Harry Perryman

HF: Harry Himmelberg, Jeremy Finlayson, Jacob Hopper

F: Toby Greene, Jeremy Cameron, Brent Daniels

FOLL: Sam Jacobs, Josh Kelly, Matt de Boer

I/C: Jackson Hatley, Tom Green, Adam Kennedy, Sam Reid

WHO MISSED OUT

Lachie Keeffe, Lachlan Ash, Matt Buntine, Xavier O’Halloran, Tommy Sheridan, Jye Caldwell, Brent Daniels, Bobby Hill, Daniel Lloyd, Shane Mumford

INJURY WARD

– Callan Ward is targeting a Round 4 return from his ACL injury.

– Tim Taranto suffered a shoulder injury in GWS’s Marsh Series opener against Sydney. He won’t feature in the first half of the season.

RALPHY SAYS

This is some kind of side, even with Tim Taranto stuck on the sidelines with a shoulder injury.

Lachie Ash was so dynamic as the club’s No. 4 draft pick that you get the feeling he won’t be in the NEAFL long if he does start there.

With Zac Williams battling achilles tendinitis there is a chance Ash plays from Round 1 anyway.

The feeling is that Williams might end up missing Round 1 to ensure he gets over that achilles problem.

Raging bull Tom Greene, the No. 10 pick who had 21 touches, two goals and 15 contested possessions in the heavy win over Sydney, looks a star in the making too.

It’s not often two draftees force their way into a Grand Final side.

Jackson Hateley, Jy Caldwell, and Xavier O’Halloran are all pushing hard for midfield time as well.

Sam Jacobs likely leads the ruck from Round 1, with the Giants getting Shane Mumford fit for the start of the season but aware they won’t likely play both veteran rucks in the one game.

Doesn’t even mention ZGL - okay

 

[Vicwood]

Is Narkle on any ones Radar.

Geelong Cats: Jack Steven won’t replace Kelly like-for-like, coach Chris Scott warns

Many people believe Geelong brought ex-Saint Jack Steven in as a direct replacement for departed midfield superstar Tim Kelly. But what does coach Chris Scott expect?

Lachie Young, Chief football writer, Herald Sun

Subscriber only

|

February 28, 2020 9:22pm

HERALDSUN.COM.AU6:14

King and I - Could the Cats miss the eight?

David King doesn't have Geelong in his predicted top eight in 2020. Does Mark Robinson agree?

Geelong coach Chris Scott says industry expectations around Jack Steven need to be tempered, warning that the former St Kilda star will not be a like-for-like replacement for Tim Kelly.

Steven played just seven games for the Saints last year after taking an extended break to focus on his mental health during the season.

He has battled with a calf complaint in recent weeks, but has otherwise put in a solid pre-season with the Cats and is on track to take on Essendon in the Marsh Community Series on March 9.

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Jack Steven is working his way to full fitness. Picture: AFL Photos/Getty Images

But despite still being just 29 and boasting a CV containing four club champion awards, Scott said there needed to be some “realism” about what Steven could achieve in 2020.

“Tim Kelly is going to be really hard to replace, so the answer is don’t try to replace him with one player,” Scott said.

“I don’t think it automatically makes us better not having him, but it is a mistake to think that Jack Steven has come in so he will just take his role.

“It would be great if he could, but that is not the way we are looking at Jack.

“There has got to be an element of realism with the expectations on him because he has had a couple of years where he pretty much hasn’t been able to play for one reason or another.

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“His pre-season has been pretty good and he has given himself a chance to contribute, but I don’t think he is Tim Kelly right at the moment.”

Jack Steven and Tim Kelly played a game of trading places during the trade period. Picture: AFL Media/Getty Images

Steven is one of several potential changes to a Geelong team that lost to Gold Coast last week, a result that raised the eyebrows of some insiders given the nature of the 68-point defeat.

Joel Selwood is also among the possible inclusions, alongside Brandan Parfitt, Sam Menegola, Jack Henry and Mark O’Connor.

Scott said the club’s pre-season injuries had made it difficult to get a gauge on on-field expectations for the year.

But he said performances would largely be shaped by the level of improvement in his team’s emerging players and the capacity to keep his stars fit.

“With the injuries, the number is a really poor guide to how teams are going,” he said.

Steven at his Geelong unveiling last year. Picture: AAP

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“It is not how many you have got, it is who they are, and we have had decent patches without Selwood, (Mitch) Duncan, Menegola, a little bit of Patty and Dahlhaus.

“It is really hard to gauge how some of our emerging players are going to go, so we really need guys like (Esava) Ratugolea, Jack Henry and Narkle as a midfielder to take the next level.

“If we do that the expectations for a high finish are reasonable but I don’t think we have got a lot of room for error.

“That would be my assessment, that if a few things go wrong for us it could get really difficult really quickly.

“So the formula is pretty simple, we need our really good players to be close to their best, we can’t afford too many injuries in key positions and we need our young players to improve.

“But with the exception of Collingwood, Richmond and West Coast, I think most other teams are in a similar boat.”

EXCLUSIVE CHRIS SCOTT INTERVIEW: Addy’s Cats magazine, March 14

Originally published as Do the Cats think Steven can replace Kelly?[/QUOTE

Is Narkle on any ones Radar.?

 

[Professor]

@Bomber18 as requested.

North Melbourne looks set to turn to untried small forward Jack Mahony to ramp up the forward line pressure in the Round 1 clash against St Kilda.

Kayne Turner’s foot injury will keep him sidelined for months, opening up a spot for the man taken with pick No. 34 in November’s national draft in the forward pocket.

Mahony can lock-in his spot in the season-opener with another hard-nosed effort in the club’s second Marsh Series clash against Sydney Swans in Kingston, Tasmania.

Former Cat and Brisbane Lions’ backman Josh Walker is likely to be the second new face in the Roos’ Round 1 team after an impressive start to his new chapter at Arden St.

But Mason Wood’s hopes of playing against the Saints have taken a hit after he was left out of both of the Kangaroos’ Marsh games.

Wood, who was put up for trade but did not attract much interest in the exchange period, has spent time training in defence and attack over summer.

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Jack Mahony is in the selection mix for the Kangaroos. Picture: AAP Images

While he played 18 senior games last year, the Geelong Falcons’ product could start the season in the VFL.

The club remains hopeful gun forward Ben Brown will also overcome a calf complaint in time for Round 1.

BOMBERS LOOK TO USE FINAL LIST SPOT

Essendon is weighing up taking back-up Norwood ruckman Henry Crauford with its final list spot.

The 204cm big man, who was a former talented swimmer, is in talks about joining the Bombers after developing rapidly last year, winning Norwood’s reserves best and fairest.

Essendon chiefs are also considering Nigel Lockyer, an exciting utility from Alice Springs, and West Australian big man Brynn Teakle, but have also not ruled out leaving the spot open for someone else in the mid-season draft.

The Bombers will make a final call this week after completing some more tests on Crauford, 22, who is recovering from a broken arm and was unable to train over the pre-season.

Crauford was stuck behind Norwood’s first-choice ruckman Sam Baulderstone in the SANFL this year but has impressed with his mobility around the ground, athleticism and marking power.

Essendon is considering bolstering its ruck stocks to support Andrew Phillips, Tom Bellchambers, who underwent pre-season knee surgery, and Sam Draper, who is on the way back from a knee reconstruction.

Phillips will lead the ruck in Essendon’s Marsh Series clash against Geelong in Colac on Monday and is in the box seat to secure a Round 1 berth against Fremantle at Marvel Stadium.

The Bombers can add another player under the supplemental selection period rules after moving draftee Lachie Johnson to the inactive.

HILL FACING TIME OUT WITH QUAD INJURY

Fremantle has been dealt a blow with dashing wingman Stephen Hill sweating on the results of further testing for a left quad injury.

Hill, 29, had scans on Sunday which confirmed the injury but the full extent of the damage will not be known until the “coming days”.

Hill, who has been troubled by quad injuries for the past two seasons, left the ground at three-quarter time and did not return in Fremantle’s one-point Marsh Community Series win over West Coast.

“Stephen experienced some discomfort in his left leg during the game, so we rested him for the last quarter with intention of having scans today (Sunday),” Fremantle football manager Peter Bell said.

“The subsequent report from the scans confirmed that Stephen sustained an injury to his left quad.

“He will undergo further testing in the coming days to determine the extent of the injury.”

There are injury concerns surrounding Stephen Hill. Picture: Getty Images

HOW DIMMA VIEWS PICKETT

Richmond coach Damien Hardwick expects cult figure Marlion Pickett to become a “valuable chess piece”, as the full strength Tigers roll towards Round 1.

Pickett, 28, was elusive in spurts on Sunday, operating through the midfield and forward of centre, in the Tigers’ 14-point Marsh Community Series loss at Wagga Wagga.

The “valuable role player”, who sensationally debuted in the Grand Final last year, finished with 20 disposals.

“We’re excited with what he’s going to bring, he’s a lot leaner, a lot fitter than what he was this time last year,” Hardwick said.

“He’ll be significantly better for the preparation, he’s got a better understanding of how we play but he’s one of 22.”

“(He) reads play pretty well, uses the ball very well so he’ll play predominantly through the midfield with stints up forward.”

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Pickett is one of several Tigers auditioning for Round 1 selection, along with Toby Nankervis, Kamdyn McIntosh and Jack Graham, who all sat out Sunday after playing in a VFL practice match.

The Tigers will have one more run at Punt Road this week before Thursday week’s season-opener against a “reinvigorated” Carlton.

“This time of year we’re probably excited for Round 1 to come but we’re playing some reasonably solid footy without being at our very best, we know the hard work is in front of us,” Hardwick said.

“We’ve got, touch wood I think, everyone available to play for Round 1 which is a great place to be.”

-GILBERT GARDINER

 

[Erek22]

Is Narkle on any ones Radar.

Seems to be in a contest with Parfitt, cats fans might know more.

 

[Professor]

Kane Cornes has outlined his three big concerns at Adelaide heading into the new season.

Under new coach Matthew Nicks, the Crows lost both Marsh Series matches to Melbourne (33 points) and Gold Coast (seven points) respectively.

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In both matches, they failed to score over 10 goals despite having more uncontested possessions than their opposition on both occasions.

Their pre-season form has left Cornes concerned, leading him to list his three areas of improvement before their season-opener against Sydney in round one.

“The two concerns I mentioned after their loss to Melbourne (in the Marsh Series) was their game style,” Cornes said on SEN SA Breakfast.

“It was chip, chip, short and stagnant stuff which eventually leads to turnovers because they aren’t that skilful back there. Besides Brodie Smith and Wayne Milera, the ball users are poor.

“It was the same case on the weekend – they dominated uncontested possession and marks but nothing threatening moving forward.

“(My second concern) is their inability to score – they’ve kicked 10 goals in both of their pre-season games. I said it after the Melbourne game and the Crows fans hounded me down.

“Adelaide kicked 10 goals and there was no way that the crows looked like scoring. They only had 40-odd entries compared to Gold Coast’s 60 odd.

“Let’s chuck in a third (concern) – their lack of a backup ruckman is now a significant issue for the Adelaide football club and why they haven’t addressed this in the off-season is an absolute mystery to me.

“You’ve got Reilly O'Brien who’s played one season of footy and you think you can go into 23 rounds with a ruckman who is solid. He’s a solid ruckman but I’d prefer him as a backup.

“You let Sam Jacobs walk to GWS because you’re not prepared to offer him another year and it wouldn’t have cost you much.

"You let him go, you let Josh Jenkins go and you don’t replace them and now you’ve got Taylor Walker rucking.

“What is going on at Adelaide?”

Adelaide underwent plenty of change in the off-season, with the likes of Eddie Betts, Sam Jacobs and Josh Jenkins all departing alongside former coach Don Pyke.



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[THCLT]

Doesn’t even mention ZGL - okay

He's currently my F5 as a $200K place holder at the moment.

Another one of those 'missing' 2019 puzzle pieces. He looks fit and stronger from what I can tell and has that pressure forward spot locked in so definitely best 22 from my point of view. He has a knack of positioning himself in their corridor for scoring avenues, it's just a matter of whether he's being used or not.

I thought he was poor yesterday and somehow still scraped together a 50 odd, I would take that as his floor as I know he has the potential to put out a few 100+ if the planets align.

 

[NT.Thunder]

He's currently my F5 as a $200K place holder at the moment.

Another one of those 'missing' 2019 puzzle pieces. He looks fit and stronger from what I can tell and has that pressure forward spot locked in so definitely best 22 from my point of view. He has a knack of positioning himself in their corridor for scoring avenues, it's just a matter of whether he's being used or not.

I thought he was poor yesterday and somehow still scraped together a 50 odd, I would take that as his floor as I know he has the potential to put out a few 100+ if the planets align.

Not many have mentioned his name, was waiting until he came into consideration here.

 

[Herbie66]

He's currently my F5 as a $200K place holder at the moment.

Another one of those 'missing' 2019 puzzle pieces. He looks fit and stronger from what I can tell and has that pressure forward spot locked in so definitely best 22 from my point of view. He has a knack of positioning himself in their corridor for scoring avenues, it's just a matter of whether he's being used or not.

I thought he was poor yesterday and somehow still scraped together a 50 odd, I would take that as his floor as I know he has the potential to put out a few 100+ if the planets align.

What are your thoughts on using him or a Schultz type in lieu of King as a F7/8 ?

Does their potential scoring ability lead to more $$$ being made or stick with the cheaper King and lower my cash generation expectations , not sure if he & Georgiades types can score consistently enough to make that magical $ 150k profit we aim for ?

Cheers

EDIT

Looking at the tables , they probably need to go close to 75-80 points themselves to make that $ 150 k , so even more to make up the "difference" in starting prices

time for another thought

 

[Professor]

How to navigate expanded 2020 bye rounds in KFC SuperCoach

The bye rounds are a dreaded time in SuperCoach — but they don’t have to be that scary. We reveal the best ways to plan for and navigate the bye rounds, and it all starts from Round 1.

Paul Dunn, Herald Sun

Subscriber only

|

March 9, 2020 12:09pm

FOXSPORTS0:59

Saints impress against Pies

AFL: St Kilda won their final pre-season clash 68-57 over Collingwood. 19 year old Max King impressed with a goal and 5 contested marks.

The bye rounds are a dreaded time in SuperCoach — but they don’t have to be that scary.

A little bit of planning can see you pull off some league victories and achieve a jump in the overall rankings.

Many experienced SuperCoach players actually look forward to this time of year as they can use it to get a big jump on the rest of the competition who aren’t prepared for it.

BYE ROUND STRUCTURE

Much of the planning for SuperCoach players has been thrown into chaos in the last week with the news that the Port Adelaide v St Kilda game in China is not going ahead and has been moved from Round 11 to Round 12.

What this means is Power and Saints players will now have their week off in Round 11, not originally one of the bye rounds.

So the bye rounds now look like this:

Round 11: Port Adelaide, St Kilda

Round 12: Brisbane Lions, Geelong, Essendon, West Coast

Round 13: Carlton, Collingwood, Fremantle, Melbourne, Richmond, Sydney

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Round 14: Adelaide, Gold Coast, GWS Giants, Hawthorn, North Melbourne, Western Bulldogs

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Patrick Dangerfield is one of the first premiums to have the bye in 2020. Picture: Peter RistevskiSCORING IN THE BYE ROUNDS

In Round 11 nothing changes from any other week apart from your Port Adelaide and St Kilda players won’t be playing and won’t be scoring. You still need 22 players on the field that will count towards your final score for the week.

For Rounds 12-14 only the best 18 of your 22 on-field players will count towards your final score. This means you can have four non-playing players on field during this week and it won’t hurt you. Obviously, the more players you have on field the better your score will be. If you have all 22 then the four worst scores won’t count.

As with other rounds, bench players will only count if they have the emergency on them and are replacing a non-playing player on field. While if your captain has a shocker and their doubled score isn’t in your best 18, then your vice-captain will not be doubled.

If your captain plays, then they are your captain for the week regardless.

PLANNING FOR THE BYES

You will often hear the phrase “trading around the byes”.

What this means is coaches are using their trades to trade out guys that haven’t had their bye yet and bring in players that have had theirs.

During the bye weeks you can use three of your 30 trades to make it a bit easier, but be careful, some coaches will blow 9 trades in this time just getting players on the field. Use this time to make strategic trades that you have planned out.

The idea is to trade out your fattened-up rookies from the Round 13 and Round 14 bye weeks and replace them with players that have had their byes in Rounds 11 and 12.

What helps us this year is Matt Rowell and Noah Anderson have the Round 14 bye, so we can hold them right through until the end of Round 13, giving us 12 other teams from which we can pick a premium to trade them to.

SuperCoach Stats subscribers can use the ‘Show Byes’ buttons to help see who is on a bye each week and then plan around this.

It is often best to map out your planned trades over those three weeks and make sure you aren’t side-trading premiums, but you are making the most of those trades and improving your side.

Most experienced players look to come out of the bye weeks with a near complete side and eight or more trades in hand to get them through the remainder of the season.

Marcus Bontempelli has the bye in Round 14. Picture: Getty

WHY NOT SIDEWAYS TRADE PREMIUMS?

With three trades a week throughout this period and limited players it is very tempting to use trades to just side swap and get 18 players on the park. But doing this will see you blow through trades very quickly and you won’t have enough left to complete your side or you will find yourself going in to the SuperCcoach finals with no trades left and praying your guys don’t get an injury or rested.

WHEN DO I WORRY ABOUT MY STRUCTURE?

There is no rule on this one but just remember, even if you have a perfect bye structure at Round 1, this can all be thrown out the window if we see an injury, a breakout we didn’t expect or a fallen premium too good to pass up.

If you have it in the back of your mind early in the season and then consider it more and more with each passing week to the point where your trades after Round 6 all have the byes in mind, you’ll find yourself well placed when Rounds 11-14 arrive.

You don’t have to plan for the byes and many coaches don’t. Many coaches use the bye round of a player as a tie breaker if they can’t split two players that they want in their side. A little bit of planning can more than help you get important wins against your mates or give you a real boost up the overall rankings.

Good luck and let’s hope the bye round SuperCoach gods are kind to us.

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SuperCoach: Defenders to help solve rookie crisis

Fresh injury has Hill set for more time out

 

[Professor]

https://twitter.com/i/web/status/1236950781502214145

 

[Spots]

KFC SuperCoach 2020: The Phantom’s ultimate rookie guide
The Phantom, The Advertiser
Struggling to find the right KFC SuperCoach rookies? Don’t worry, you’re not alone. The Phantom’s ultimate guide is here to help you select the best cash cows in every position.
DEFENDERS
1. Jarrod Brander (WC)
$133,000, Fwd-Def
Marsh series scores: 46, 76
Brander has posted scores of 25, 36 and 36 in his three career games playing as a forward, but the versatile 20-year-old, who stands at 195cm, can play in almost any position on the ground.
And over the pre-season, he’s impressed on a wing, in a role which is likely to be more SuperCoach-friendly.
Brander, who is still rookie-price – and dual-position – heading into his third year, saved his best performance for the final Marsh Series clash, finishing with 17 disposals – at 88 per cent efficiency – and five marks against the Dockers.
PHANTOM’S MARCH VERDICT: SuperCoaches have lost faith in a number of rookie-price options over the past two weeks but Brander’s stocks have only risen in this time and he now appears one of the safe bets in his new role.
2. Lachie Ash (GWS)
$193,800 Def-Mid
Marsh series scores: 88, 62
The Giants’ top pick from last year’s draft – No. 4 overall – averaged 22 disposals and 102 for Vic Country at the national carnival and 129 points per game in the NAB League.
Ash’s junior numbers are matched by his standout ability to break the game open from halfback.
After two impressive Marsh Series performances in defence – and the uncertainty surrounding Zac Williams’ achilles – Ash’s chances of a Round 1 start are now very strong, despite the standout summer of fellow running defender Isaac Cumming.
PHANTOM’S MARCH VERDICT: It appears we may have no choice but to fork out for the high-end rookie options this year and Ash’s pre-season scores justify the top-price tag.
3. Brandon Zerk-Thatcher (Ess)
$189,300 Def
Marsh series scores: 61, 104
The current Essendon injury list means the 21-year-old, who was the No. 1 player for intercept possessions in the VFL over the past two seasons, will see more senior action in 2020.
And Zerk-Thatcher showed enough in the Marsh Series, averaging 10.5 intercepts and 14.5 effective disposals per game, to suggest he’ll make SuperCoaches plenty of early cash this year, despite the $180k price-tag.
PHANTOM’S MARCH VERDICT: A top-price key-defender at No. 3? Yep, that’s what sort of year it might be, SuperCoaches. Zerk-Thatcher appears to have more scoring avenues than your average key-backman, though.
4. John Noble (Coll)
$215,400, Def
Marsh series scores: 79, 73
The mid-season draftee averaged 20 disposals in his three home-and-away matches last season before recording tallies of 19 and 16 in Collingwood’s two finals. Noble can find the ball and he proved it again in the Marsh Series.
Noble tallied a combined 46 disposals, hitting the target with 39 of them, working up and down the ground in his two pre-season matches, as the Magpies played high-possession football.
PHANTOM’S MARCH VERDICT: $215k is a lot to ask but Noble’s job security and scoring potential may be as high as any on the list. And, this year, that list is an unconvincing one.
5. Tobe Watson (Freo)
$123.000, Def
Marsh series scores: 62, 42
After averaging 17 disposals in the WAFL during his first year on the Dockers’ list – and rating elite for marks and above-average for intercept possessions, intercept marks, spoils and score involvements – the 190cm defender has put himself in the Round 1 mix after an impressive summer. The mature-age recruit finished disposal tallies of 13 and 14 and is the only $123k defender to have played both his club’s Marsh Series matches.
PHANTOM’S MARCH VERDICT: If you don’t know, now you know. Watson is one of only a few bottom-price rookies likely to see early-season action, making him a great SuperCoach bench option.

 

[Spots]

6. Will Gould (Syd)
$117,300, Def
Marsh Series Score s: 68, DNP
The ready-made defender, who played an important role in Glenelg’s drought-breaking grand final win, could play 22 games this year without a problem.
Gould, 18, delivered with precision from the back-half and knocked around some of his more senior opponents in the SANFL, averaging 19 disposals and 89 SuperCoach points per game at the top-level in SA.
He’s made a big impression since arriving in Sydney and could feature in the Swans’ defence in 2020 – and even take some of Jake Lloyd’s kick-in duties.
PHANTOM’S MARCH VERDICT: Cleaned up Giant Matt de Boer with a big, but fair, bump in the first 10 minutes of his career and, while he doesn’t appear to be the lock he once was after being left out of the club’s final Marsh Series match, Gould is still in the Round 1 mix at the Swans. Shoots straight to the top of this list if he’s picked.
7. Fischer McAsey (Adel)
$184,800 Def
Marsh series scores: DNP, 47
Adelaide’s top pick from last year’s draft was the No. 1 key-defender at the 2018 national under-18 carnival, leading all in his position for disposals, intercept marks, intercept possessions and marks.
The skilful, 195cm McAsey was already closing in on a Round 1 debut but, after the Tom Doedee setback, it’s now all but sealed, with the 18-year-old set to partner Daniel Talia in defence against the Swans.
PHANTOM’S MARCH VERDICT: With Doedee out of the side and McAsey playing in the Crows’ final Marsh Series clash ahead of Kyle Hartigan and Jordon Butts, he might not play the floating third-tall role SuperCoaches were hoping for. But McAsey’s job security is as strong as any.
8. Brandon Starcevich (Bris)
$147,700, Def-Mid
Marsh series scores: 40, 61
Starcevich, who was drafted as a forward in 2017, played the final four matches of 2018 and then featured in last year’s pre-season competition for the Lions.
But a serious hamstring injury in a practice match against the Demons halted any momentum he was building, with the strong, skilful right-footer adding just one game to his career tally in 2019.
After a standout summer on the track, however, Starcevich was tipped to help fill the void left by the retirement of Luke Hodge at halfback in 2020.
But, while he’s been in defence at times, the 20-year-old played majority of the final Marsh Series match against the Blues at half-forward.
PHANTOM’S MARCH VERDICT: If you can afford the extra $40k, I’d spend it. But, otherwise, if he’s picked, Starcevich’s traits should see him score well in either role.
9. Bailey Williams (WC)
$123,900, Def-Ruck
Marsh Series Scores: 70, DNP
The 19-year-old, taken at pick No. 35 in the 2018 draft, was a standout against the Bombers in the Eagles’ Marsh Series opening and is now right in the mix for a Round 1 spot. Williams, who averaged 73 points per game in the WAFL last year, finished with 12 disposals, six contested possessions and six score involvements playing a back-up ruck-forward role, before missing the summer derby with hamstring tightness.
The athletic big man, who has impressed with his hands in the air and at ground level, could force his way in ahead of Nathan Vardy if he can do enough in Friday’s intra-club hitout.
PHANTOM’S MARCH VERDICT: A playing bottom-price option in defence? We’ll take it for the bench. Fingers crossed.
10. Hayden Young (Freo)
$180,300 Def
Marsh series scores: DNP
The damaging left-footer, who ranked first for intercept possessions and second for metres gained, averaged 107 points at the national under-18 championships for Vic Country.
Young, regarded as the best kick in this year’s draft class, went even bigger in the NAB League, averaging 129 points per game and fits new coach Justin Longmuir’s want for an increase in skill level at the Dockers.
But a recent injury setback has put the his Round 1 debut in doubt, with the 18-year-old unsighted in the Marsh Series.
PHANTOM’S MARCH VERDICT: We haven’t heard much on Young’s progress after he joined the rehab group prior to the start of the Marsh Series. But that doesn’t mean rule him out of Round 1 just yet, especially with the injury to Stephen Hill. He’s another who will bolt to the top of the rankings if the Dockers spring a surprise next week.
WATCHLIST
Stephen Hill (Freo $190,600, Fwd-Def)
Marsh Series scores: DNP, 32
The 29-year-old has played just 16 games in the past two seasons but he averaged 86, 96, 96, 90 and 80 in the five years before that. Last week, a fit Hill was The Phantom’s fourth-best rookie option on any line. But after hurting his troublesome quad against the Eagles, the alarms bells are ringing.
Jacob Kennerley (Geel, $123,900 Def-Mid)
Marsh series scores: 34, 11
The dominant runner of the 2018 draft class returned to Geelong training in outstanding condition in December, pushing some of the club’s best athletes, Mark Blicavs included, over summer. And the 19-year-old outside-midfielder, who averaged 133 points at SANFL under-18 level, will be close to an early-season debut after an impressive first year in the VFL and game-time in both the Cats’ Marsh Series matches. Coach Chris Scott isn’t afraid to give young runners who can use the ball well senior opportunity.
Damon Greaves (Haw $123,900, Def)
Marsh Series scores: 77, 3
The 19-year-old, who went at 74 per cent by foot in 18 VFL games last year, finished with 19 disposals and a team-high eight rebound 50s in the Hawks’ first Marsh Series appearance but only played the final minutes of the second-round clash with the Demons, despite the injury to defender Blake Hardwick.
Trent Rivers (Melb $117,300, Def-Mid)
Marsh Series scores: DNP
The West Australian starred at last year’s national under-18 championships, averaging 22 disposals – at 77 per cent efficiency – and 94 points per game. His ball-use and speed from halfback was a highlight, as it was at WAFL Colts level, where he averaged 149 points across nine matches. And the 18-year-old’s traits appear to address the needs of a Melbourne side looking to bounce back.
Tom Williamson (Carl $146,300, Def)
Marsh Series scores: 52, DNP
The injury-plagued defender, who has made just two senior appearances since his impressive debut season of 2017, is fit and featured across halfback in the first week of the official pre-season competition. Carlton like the 21-year-old so, if his body stays sound, expect him to get an opportunity.
Trent Bianco (Coll $117,300, Def-Mid)
Marsh Series scores: 14, DNP
The ball-magnet tallied 22 disposals or more in 10 of his 11 NAB League matches last season and, more importantly, made most of them count. Bianco, who captain Oakleigh Chargers in 2019, is smart with ball in hand and uses it well on both sides of his body, averaging 119 SuperCoach points per game as a result. The potential downgrade target doesn’t win a lot of football in a contest but makes up for it with his efficiency.

 

[Spots]

MIDFIELDERS
1. Marlion Pickett (Rich)
$123,900, Mid
Marsh Series Scores: 61, 61
The mature-age sensation finished third in the Norm Smith Medal voting last year after tallying 22 disposals, eight contested possessions, one goal and 96 SuperCoach points on debut in the grand final.
A week earlier, Pickett won the Norm Goss Medal as the best player on-the-ground in the VFL grand final after 20 disposals and 123 points.
PHANTOM’S MARCH VERDICT: The guy was almost the best player on the ground in the biggest game last year. And Pickett, who featured in Richmond’s first-choice on-ball rotation in the Marsh Series, is available at rookie-price. What more do you need?
2. Matt Rowell (GC)
$207,300, Mid
Marsh Series Scores: 100, 36
Thought Sam Walsh had a good SuperCoach season in his first year? The output of this kid might be even better.
Like Walsh, Rowell has enjoyed a near-perfect junior career, dominating at all levels.
The strong-bodied, well-balanced midfielder averaged 32 disposals, 17 contested possessions and 171 SuperCoach points in the NAB League last season and 133 points for Vic Metro at the under-18 national carnival.
And in his first official hitout for the Suns, Rowell tallied a game-high 15 contested possessions and the first – of many – SuperCoach ton of his career against the Cats.
PHANTOM’S MARCH VERDICT:Justifying the hype in every way and only sits behind Pickett given the starting price. But you should be picking them both.
3. Tom Green (GWS)
$166,800, Mid
Marsh series scores: 106, 72
After averaging 16.2 contested possessions per game at the 2019 under-18 national carnival – the most ever-recorded by Champion Data – and 111 points, Green is a SuperCoach star in the making.
And, while there was early doubt over his Round 1 chances in a star-studded GWS midfield, Green might have played his into Leon Cameron’s side – which is now missing Tim Taranto – over the past two weeks.
In a commanding performance against the Swans, the 188cm Green finished with a game-high 15 contested possessions, while also booting two goals and playing a direct hand in two others to highlight his ability as a forward. A week later, Green had 16 disposals, one goal and another two assists.
PHANTOM’S MARCH VERDICT: Has the game and body to be a great SuperCoach scorer from the outset and, now, he looks to have the opportunity.
4. Deven Robertson (Bris)
$117,300
Marsh series scores: DNP, 63
SuperCoaches – and Brisbane – will be happy the WA under-18 captain slid to No. 22 on draft night.
Instead of being priced at $150k or more as a top-10 selection, Robertson, who broke Sam Walsh’s disposal record at the national carnival, is at the bottom-end of rookie-pricing. And the tough midfielder, who averaged 128 SuperCoach points for WA and 153 at WAFL Colts level, is ready.
And, while he was a slider last November, Robertson, who didn’t play in the first round of pre-season action, has been a March bolter in SuperCoach after an impressive showing through the midfield in the Lions’ Marsh Series clash with the Blues.
PHANTOM’S MARCH VERDICT: Hallelujah. If the draftee holds his place for Round 1, lock him in.
5. Dylan Stephens (Syd)
$189,300, Mid
Marsh Series scores: 38, 50
Despite his slight frame, the hard-running left-footer showed he can mix it with the big bodies, averaging 18 disposals and 82 SuperCoach points at senior level in the SANFL last year.
The 18-year-old did his best work at junior level on the outside, but he’s shown he’s clean and creative on the inside.
And he’s been turning heads – on the back of his endurance and damaging left-foot – during his first pre-season at Sydney.
PHANTOM’S MARCH VERDICT: Despite a quiet Marsh Series opener,Stephens is doing all the right things to be there in Round 1, as coach John Longmire confirmed recently, and his scoring should improve as he settles.

 

[Spots]

6. Jeremy Sharp (GC)
$117,300, Mid
Marsh Series scores: 16, 42
The outsider midfielder is an elite runner with terrific skills who made six senior WAFL appearances last year and averaged 68 SuperCoach points per game against the bigger bodies.
The 18-year-old had nine disposals in the second-half against the Cats in the opening round of the Marsh Series and the teenager made the most of his limited opportunity against Adelaide, tallying 14 disposals and seven marks after coming on in the third-term.
Has he done enough to force his way past a number of other skilful runners at the Suns?
PHANTOM’S MARCH VERDICT: A great SuperCoach bench option if he has.
7. Ned McHenry (Adel)
$123,900, Mid
Marsh series scores: 37, DNP
In his draft year, McHenry applied five more tackles than any other player at the 2018 under-18 championships and averaged 115 SuperCoach points per game in the TAC Cup.
The running machine’s impressive form continued in the SANFL last year, with McHenry averaging 21 disposals, six marks and five tackles per game in his first five games for the Crows’ reserves.
Then, in his second game after returning from a long-term back injury, McHenry finished with 17 disposals, four goals and 123 points in the semi-final.
After recovering from a minor abdominal injury, McHenry finished with six disposals and five tackles in a half of footy in the opening weekend of the Marsh Series and is still in the Round 1 frame at West Lakes, despite a back-related hamstring issue forcing him off the ground at halftime of the under-23 Showdown.
PHANTOM’S MARCH VERDICT: A lock for your bench if he’s picked. And he’s still an outside chance as new coach Matthew Nicks works out his best 22.
8. Mitch Hibberd (Ess)
$114,000 Mid
Marsh series scores: DNP
The 23-year-old failed to make it playing predominantly as a defender for North Melbourne but after being delisted at the end of last year, Hibberd turned himself into tall, big-bodied running midfielder in the VFL in 2019.
Playing for Williamstown, the 191cm Tasmanian averaged 24 disposals, seven tackles and 128 SuperCoach points per game to be named on a wing in the VFL’s team of the year.
Pre-season knee surgery ruined Hibberd’s preparation but he’s back training and is still a chance for an early-season Bombers debut.
PHANTOM’S MARCH VERDICT: With the lack of starting options, less than two weeks out from Round 1, stashing Hibberd on your bench is worth some thought.
9. Tyler Brown (Coll)
$123,000 Mid
Marsh Series scores: 80, 35
The 20-year-old won 57 per cent of his possession in a contest in the VFL last year and is pushing hard for a senior debut in his third season.
Brown’s 65-point performance in the Magpies’ first official pre-season match, on the back of 16 disposals at 88 per cent efficiency in a different role on a wing, did his chances no harm.
As a number of stars returned, however, Brown was only on the ground for 39 per cent of the second Marsh Series match against the Saints. But he still finished with an impressive nine disposals and 35 points.
PHANTOM’S MARCH VERDICT: Another SuperCoaches should have their fingers crossed for. But if it’s not Round 1, it’s unlikely to be long after.
10. Noah Anderson (GC)
$202,800 Mid
Marsh series scores: 59, 13
The 188cm midfielder averaged 25 disposals and two goals in the NAB League this year, joining Tiger Jack Higgins, Brisbane’s Hugh McCluggage and Bomber Devon Smith as the only players to achieve this feat in the junior competition. It’s no surprise, Anderson finished with a 143-point SuperCoach average.
He’s a star-in-the-making, no doubt, but will he get midfield minutes of best-mate Rowell to justify his $202k price tag in his first season?
PHANTOM’S MARCH VERDICT: Initially, I said no. But, now, amid the rookie crisis, should we just be thankful he’s playing? Anderson, who tallied 14 disposals in week one of the Marsh Series before playing a half against the Crows, is one I’m tipping will just get better and better as the year goes on.
WATCHLIST
Jackson Mead (Port, $117,300 Mid)
Marsh series scores: DNP
At 184cm and 83kg – and with terrific versatility in his game – the father-son prospect is a strong chance to see early action at the Power in 2020.
A smart and skilful midfielder, who wins the ball at the contest and away from it, Mead averaged 21 disposals and 106 SuperCoach points for South Australia and 20 disposals, eight marks and 101 points for the Eagles at reserves level in the SANFL.
But Mead is also strong overhead and it’s his ability as a forward which is likely to see him in the senior selection frame in his debut season.
The strong-bodied Mead has impressed at Alberton over summer and, while a pre-season hamstring injury has all-but ended his chances of a Round 1 debut, he’s back training and should still feature early in 2020.
Caleb Serong (Freo, $175,800 Mid)
Marsh series scores: 60, 16
Serong, who has drawn comparison to Port Adelaide’s Robbie Gray, ranked fourth for clearances and fifth for contested possessions in the NAB League, where he averaged 129 points per game. And a standout performance in Fremantle’s recent intra-club match and a strong showing against the Magpies in week one of the Marsh Series – after halftime in particular – has him in the mix for a Round 1 debut, despite limited game-time in the Dockers’ final hitout.
Jye Caldwell (GWS, $190,100 Mid)
Marsh series scores: 42, DNP
The classy midfielder battled injury in his first season at the Giants, just as he did in the final two years of his junior career. But, after impressive form in the NEAFL mid-year, Caldwell earnt a late call-up to the senior side in Round 21. And it was an impressive debut, too, with the 19-year-old finishing with 13 disposals, six contested possession, six tackles, five marks and 73 points. Caldwell featured in the Giants’ Marsh Series opener but was squeezed out with the return of a number of star teammates for the clash with the Tigers. But he’s around the mark.
Justin McInerney (Syd $123,000, Mid)
Marsh Series scores: 80, 3
The young speedster, who made one senior appearance in his debut season last year, rated above-average in the NEAFL for SuperCoach points, disposals, uncontested possessions, marks and inside-50s. And most of his traits were on show in the first week of the Marsh Series, as the 19-year-old tallied 19 disposals and 80 points against the Giants. Dampening the hopes of his SuperCoach prospects, however was the five minutes of game-time he played in the final round.
Luke Valente (Freo, $123,900 Mid)
Marsh series scores: DNP
The 187cm, 81kg Valente is great by foot – on both sides of his body – and averaged 22 disposals and 118 SuperCoach points per game as South Australia’s under-18 captain in 2018.
Injury restricted the 19-year-old, who averaged 159 points at SANFL under-18 level in his draft year, to just seven WAFL league games last year but if his body stay sounds, Valente could get his first taste of senior action in 2020.
Jack Bytel (StK, $123,900 Mid)
Marsh series scores: DNP
Back surgery wiped out the 189cm midfielder’s debut season but he’s fit and looks ready to make his mark at the Saints this year. The No. 41 pick from the 2018 draft is a strong tackler, who can win the ball at the contest and away from it – three key contributors to SuperCoach scoring.
Riley Collier-Dawkins (Rich, $123,900 Mid)
Marsh series scores: 30, DNP
Richmond’s top pick from the 2018 draft – No. 20 overall – failed to break into the senior side last year but he impressed in 20 VFL matches. None more so than the grand final.
The 190cm midfielder, who boasts terrific speed away from the contested, was one of Richmond’s best, finishing with 15 disposals, nine contested possessions, six tackles and two goals in the win over Williamstown. And the 19-year-old has been turning heads at Tigers training over summer, putting on seven kilograms and putting himself in contention for an early-season debut.
Harry Schoenberg (Adel, $117,300 Mid)
Marsh series scores: DNP
It will be a new-look Crows in 2020 and SA’s under-18 MVP, who averaged 27 disposals, five marks, five tackles and 122 SuperCoach points at the national carnival, will be a chance for senior action in his debut season. His hands are brilliant at the contest – as he showed in the under-23 practice match against the Power – and Schoenberg, who averaged 128 points at SANFL under-18 level, also wins plenty of football on the spread.

 

[Spots]

RUCKMEN
1. Darcy Cameron (Coll)
$123,900, Ruck-Fwd
Marsh series scores: 127, DNP
The 24-year-old played made just one senior appearance in his time at the Swans, despite being one of the NEAFL’s dominant ruckmen for the best part of three years.
But Cameron, who averaged 154 SuperCoach points per game in a standout 2018 for the Swans’ reserves side, has also shown his ability as a strong-marking forward.
In 2016, prior to being drafted as a mature-ager from the WAFL, the 205cm big man took 43 contested marks – the most in the competition – and booted 36 goals for Claremont.
And both traits were on show in an imposing performance in the Marsh Series clash with the Tigers. Cameron tallied 12 disposals, 11 hit-outs-to-advantage, two goals and a game-high 127 points, proving he may be able to offer more as Brodie Grundy’s back-up than Mason Cox.
PHANTOM’S MARCH VERDICT: Cameron was then left out of the Magpies side a week later so he’s a hard one to read. But he’s the best option if you’re looking for cover on your forward bench or at R3.
2. Luke Jackson (Melb)
$198,300, Ruck
Marsh series scores: 22, 71
Some say this kid will be the next Brodie Grundy – and it’s not hard to see why.
The athletic big man, who can play forward, has plenty of tricks and his elite tap-work is matched by an ability to follow up when the ball is on the ground.
Jackson’s junior numbers are also on the Grundy-end of the SuperCoach scale, with the 18-year-old averaging 162 points per game at WAFL Colts level and 110 for WA at the national under-18 carnival.
And he’s only been dedicated to footy for less than two years.
PHANTOM’S MARCH VERDICT: It will take some time before he even comes close to Grundy, but the young big man might see some early action in Melbourne’s forward-line in 2020. And maybe even as a back-up ruckman after an impressive pre-season, which ended with a 71-point half against the Hawks.
3. Tristan Xerri (NM)
$123,900, Ruck
Marsh series scores: 98, 37
Goldstein’s understudy, Xerri, a developing, third-year big man, has impressed enough over summer to suggest he’s a chance to see senior action at some stage in 2020.
Xerri finished with 11 disposals, six contested possessions, five tackles, two goals and 98 points in week one of the Marsh Series before a quiet game against the Swans.
PHANTOM’S MARCH VERDICT: Does Xerri get a chance while Ben Brown remains on the sidelines?
AND THE LOOPHOLE
Charlie Comben (NM, $117,300, Ruck-Fwd)
If you are throwing the R3 position for loophole purposes, Gold Coast’s Matthew Conroy is the only ruckman priced at $102k.
But if you’ve got the cash and, unless the young draftee develops quicker than expect, Comben is your man.
The Kangaroos play 12 games on Sunday, two more than St Kilda, Fremantle and Melbourne.

 

[Spots]

FORWARDS
1. Izak Rankine (GC)
$123,900, Fwd
Marsh series scores: DNP
Teammate Touk Miller believes there’s a big year ahead for the 19-year-old if he can stay fit in 2020.
But those who saw Rankine make his SANFL league debut at 16 already knew that.
The excitement machine, whose first year at the Suns was interrupted by injury, then tallied more goals, assists and score involvements than any other player and averaged 120 SuperCoach points per game at the 2018 Under-18 championships.
A shoulder knock kept him out of the Marsh Series match but coach Stuart Dew, following the win over the Crows, said Rankine should be fit by Round 1. And there’s still a good chance he’ll be picked.
PHANTOM’S MARCH VERDICT: I’m not writing him off until his name is missing from the Round 1 team sheet, though, and I’ll still pick him without any pre-season match.
2. Curtis Taylor (NM)
$123,900, Fwd-Mid
Marsh series scores: 33, 95
The second-year forward, who booted the second-most goals of any North Melbourne player in the VFL last year, was a standout against the Swans on the final weekend of Marsh Series action, tallying 21 disposals, a team-high eight score involvements, two goals and 95 SuperCoach points.
And that was after a quick-fire 33 points, on the back of eight disposals and a goal, in just 42 per cent game-time in the first week.
Is Taylor, 19, the rookie saviour we’ve been waiting for?
PHANTOM’S MARCH VERDICT: We all bloody hope so. And the signs are good, maybe even for an on-field spot, depending on Rankine’s selection.
3. Connor Budarick (GC)
$106,900, Mid
Marsh series scores: 74, 37
In the NAB League last season, only Matt Rowell and Tom Green averaged more SuperCoach points than the Gold Coast Academy gun.
But his price is far more appealing after the AFL’s assistance package allowed the Suns to take the 18-year-old, who played eight NEAFL games – and averaged 18 disposals – in his draft year, in the rookie draft.
He finished with 14 disposals and 74 points in a composed display in week one of the Marsh Series, before playing just a half against the Crows. What does that mean for his Round 1 chances?
PHANTOM’S MARCH VERDICT: I wish I knew but he’s ready to go and a SuperCoach must-have if he’s picked the opening-round clash with the Power.
4. Aiden Bonar (NM)
$202,800, Fwd-Mid
Marsh series scores: 76, 14
There’s been no harder engine room to crack than the Giants’ in recent seasons and Bonar has felt the squeeze first-hand.
The highly-rated 20-year-old, who was drafted at pick No. 11 in 2017 despite two previous knee reconstructions, played just six games in his two years at GWS, spending most of his time forward.
Bonar showed his wares as a big-bodied midfielder in the NEAFL, however, and it’s a role which he is set to play at the top-level at his new club this season after an impressive Marsh Series opener saw him attend the fourth-most centre bounces in just 61 per cent game-time.
There’s opportunity for him at North and he could be worth the elevated price, depending on your structure, in a shallow rookie-price pool this year.
PHANTOM’S MARCH VERDICT: Hamstring tightness from the practice match against the Demons saw Bonar only play a half against the Swans on Monday. Has he done enough work over summer to earn a Round 1 start? It’s hard to be sure but he remains this high on the list for now.
5. Max King (StK)
$123,900, Fwd
Marsh series scores: 46, 29
St Kilda fans are excited and SuperCoaches should be, too.
In the only TAC Cup game of his draft year, which was ruined by an ACL injury, King tallied 19 disposals, nine marks, 8.5 and 179 SuperCoach points.
The 19-year-old’s debut season at the Saints was ruined too, but not before he could boot 11 goals in five impressive VFL appearances.
King finished with one goal from six disposals and four marks in a less-than-convincing performance against the Hawks in week one and it was a similar story in the Saints’ final Marsh Series clash, despite a very lively start against the Magpies.
His scoring might inconsistent but King’s job security as a rookie-price player will be as strong as it gets in 2020.
PHANTOM’S MARCH VERDICT: A safe options for your bench.

 

[Spots]

6. Jack Mahony (NM)
$117,300, Mid-Fwd
Marsh series scores: 30, 53
Mahony averaged 106 SuperCoach points at the national under-18 carnival after leading the competition for score involvements and score assists.
The 176cm small forward, who averaged 114 points in the NAB League, was so impressive last year that Champion Data rated him the 14th-best player in the draft.
With pressure forward Kayne Turner sidelined, Mahony is a chance to face the Saints next weekend after eight disposals, six contested possessions and a goal against the Swans.
PHANTOM’S MARCH VERDICT: Another terrific bench option, who looks set for early action. Pick him in the midfield, given the lack of bottom-price rookies there.
7. Lachie Schultz (Freo)
$208,800
Marsh series scores: 107, 59
In the two seasons before being drafted at pick No. 57 in 2018, the mature-age recruit who booted 55 goals in the VFL.
And in the second half of his final year at Williamstown, the 177cm forward showed his ability to impact the game away from goal, averaging 95 SuperCoach points per game.
The 22-year-old failed to have a big impact in seven games in his debut season at the Dockers but he’s just capped off a standout pre-season with an influential Marsh Series, which saw him lead the Dockers for scoreboard impact and rank equal-first for score involvements.
PHANTOM’S MARCH VERDICT: Expensive but with the scoring potential to match. Might rise up the rankings, depending on Bonar’s selection.
8. Mitch Georgiades (Port)
$130,800, Fwd
Marsh series scores: 30, 43
Port Adelaide footy boss Chris Davies described the Power’s top four draftees as “physically capable of competing” and more ready than last year’s trio.
Remember what Connor Rozee, Xavier Duursma and Zak Butters did in their first year?
Days later, senior assistant Michael Voss declared Georgiades, Port’s second pick in last year’s draft, “very much so in the mix for round one”, saying “if we sat down tomorrow, he’d probably be in it.”
And then the 192cm forward, who missed the entire 2019 season with a thigh injury, put on an impressive showing during Port’s intra-club and played in both of the Power’s Marsh Series matches, ensuring his Round 1 debut.
PHANTOM’S MARCH VERDICT: His scoring might not be through the roof but he’ll be there.
9. Ben Davis (Adel)
$123,900, Fwd
Marsh series scores: 55, 43
The 22-year-old struggled in his only senior appearance against Geelong at the Cattery last year but he’s not the only player to have ever done so down there.
But going by his pre-season and SANFL form, Davis could have an impact in a new-look Crows forward line in 2020.
The strong-marking 187cm forward, who tallied 11 disposals, six score involvements and four inside-50s against the Suns, is lively in the air and at ground level and isn’t afraid to take his opponent on as he showed in the Marsh Series.
PHANTOM’S MARCH VERDICT: Davis got his name on the scoresheet in both of Adelaide’s pre-season fixtures and looms as a likely Round 1 starter.
10. Kysaiah Pickett (Melb)
$157,800, Fwd
Marsh series scores: 43, DNP
The Tough, aggressive excitement machine, who averaged 92 points per game at SANFL reserves level last year, is set to be unleashed in Round 1 and the Demons’ top pick doesn’t need many touches to have an impact.
But price pushes him down the SuperCoach pecking order in a small-forward role
PHANTOM’S MARCH VERDICT: He’ll be exciting to watch and he might surprise in SuperCoach.
WATCHLIST
Sam Sturt (Freo, $123,900 Fwd)
Marsh series scores: 39, 29
Fremantle’s top three picks from last year’s draft have impressed over summer but so has the pick No. 17 from the 2018 draft, who battled concussion during his first year at the club. The athletic forward, who booted three goals in his final WAFL match of 2019, was a late bolter in his draft year, booting 11 goals and averaging 100 SuperCoach points in the final six TAC Cup games of the season. And the rapid development has continued with the 19-year-old adding significant muscle to his slight frame over the pre-season.
Brad Close (Geel, $109,900 Mid-Fwd)
Marsh series scores: 51, DNP
The Cats are the mature-age kings so don’t be surprised to see the 21-year-old, who starred for Glenelg in the SANFL last year, in Chris Scott’s Round 1 side.
Lachlan Hosie (NM, $123,900 Fwd)
Marsh series scores: 30, DNP
The 189cm forward, who was plucked from the SANFL half way through last season, is the other player who has caught the eye of his more-experienced teammate. The 22-year-old booted 20 goals in 10 VFL games last year and was named as a senior emergency in each of the final four rounds. And at the time of the mid-season draft, Hosie led the SANFL’s goalkicking with 21.
Ben Cavarra (WB, $123,900 Fwd)
Marsh series scores: DNP
Cavarra captained the Eastern Ranges and won the Morrish Medal as a midfielder in the TAC Cup in 2013. But in the two seasons before he was drafted in 2018, he booted 65 goals in the two seasons playing for Williamstown in the VFL and averaged an impressive 97 SuperCoach points per game. And, despite a number of injury issues last season, the 24-year-old continued his impressive VFL form for Footscray, booting 19 goals from 12 matches and winning more of the ball. He’ll have an immediate impact when he gets the opportunity. But when will it come?
Miles Bergman, (Port $148,800, Fwd)
Marsh series scores: DNP
Throughout his junior career, Bergman, who suits Port Adelaide’s want for more speed and versatility, was never a big ball-winner and that’s unlikely to change this year, given his possible high half-forward role but he’ll have an impact. And SuperCoaches know the importance of that.
Tobin Cox, (Port, $123,900 Fwd)
Marsh series scores: DNP
Port Adelaide captain Tom Jonas declared the 20-year-old a pre-season smoky after the small-forward booted 31 goals, from 14 matches, in the SANFL last year. The 181cm Cox is terrific above his head and clean at ground-level and will be eyeing a forward line spot at the Power in 2020, despite just one – disappointing – Marsh Series appearance
Ely Smith (Bris, $123,900 Fwd-Mid)
Marsh series scores: 18, DNP
The contested beast, who also possesses a brilliant vertical leap, signed a contract extension at the end of last year, despite failing to make a senior appearance in his debut season. But, at 187cm and 86kg, the 19-year-old, who averaged 114 points SuperCoach points per game in the TAC Cup in 2018, is ready to go. Could pop as an idea downgrade target mid-year – here’s hoping anyway.
Cody Weightman (WB, $144,300 Fwd)
Marsh series scores: DNP
“He is a little pocket rocket. He has always got plenty of energy. He has surprised me with his ability and quickness and ability to jump. He can jump so high. He has the chance to take a mark of the year in his career. The club looks after the first-year boys but he’s doing the bulk of the work and he performed well in match simulation.”
That’s what Western Bulldogs defender Jason Johannisen had to say about his new teammate, Weightman, who was the leading goalkicker at the under-18 championships last year. Despite an impressive national carnival, the 18-year-old only averaged 80 points per game. But the opportunity might come at some stage in 2020.
Sam Skinner (Bris, $111,400 Fwd)
Marsh series scores: DNP
Since 2015, the year he was drafted, Skinner has undergone three knee reconstructions and the horrible run of injury has restricted the 22-year-old to just one senior appearance in his four years at the Lions. But the 198cm skinner played 19 NEAFL games last year and booted 3.2 – and took a number of contested marks – in Brisbane’s recent intra-club hitout.
Jake Riccardi (GWS, $117,300 Fwd)
Marsh series scores: DNP
After booting 38 goals in 2019, the 195cm forward won the Fothergill-Round-Mitchell medal as the VFL’s best young player. Bayley Fritsch (Melb), Luke Ryan (Freo), Nic Newman (Carl), Kane Lambert (Rich), Michael Hibberd (Melb) and Michael Barlow are other players to win this award since 2009. And the Giants didn’t go after the mature-age forward to fill their NEAFL team.

 

[Professor]

Dr SuperCoach’s ultimate Marsh Series week 3 review

The final weekend of practice matches offers the best information for picking our SuperCoach teams. Didn’t see every game? Don’t panic. The Doctor SuperCoach experts were watching every minute. Here’s who starred and who flopped.

Dr SuperCoach, Herald Sun

Subscriber only

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March 10, 2020 10:00am

HERALDSUN.COM.AU1:42

Fox Footy's SuperCoach specials

Fox Footy's experts name their best buys in SuperCoach this season

The final round of the Marsh Series is the best — and last — chance for KFC SuperCoach players to see their hopefuls in action before locking in our squads for the season.

Watch every match of every round of the 2020 Toyota AFL Premiership Season LIVE & On-Demand with KAYO. New to Kayo? Get your 14-day free trial & start streaming instantly >

Team line-ups and tactics in their final practice match hitout are usually very similar to what we will see in Round 1, which means these games provide the most important SuperCoach intel of the pre-season.

Didn’t see every game? Don’t panic. The expert team from Doctor SuperCoach were watching every kick, mark and clanger. Who caught their eye on the weekend?

Note: This is part one of the Marsh week 3 review. Stay tuned for analysis of the final five matches.

Rory Laird tore it up for the Crows — as he always does. Picture: AAPGOLD COAST 71 DEF ADELAIDE 64

THE PREMO: Rory Laird $525,800 DEF – 132 SuperCoach points

Laird played his customary role across halfback, amassing 32 touches at 84 per cent efficiency, five marks and five tackles. One of the most reliable premium defenders of recent times, having averaged above 93 for the past five seasons, Laird will once again be a quality pick in 2020. Rory provides some value as well as he isn’t as expensive as some of the other top-tier defenders.

THE MID-PRICER: Darcy MacPherson $443,800 FWD/MID – 127 points

MacPherson looms as a possible option as a forward in SuperCoach this year after backing up his 132-point effort from Marsh 1 with another fantastic score. MacPherson had 31 touches and kicked 1.2 spending time in the forward line and through the midfield. He’s historically played closer to goals but this year looks to be the year where he could considerably improve his average of 81.7 from last season and become a real weapon for the Suns – and in SuperCoach.

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THE ROOKIE LOCK: Matt Rowell $207,300 MID – 36 points

A guy who’s scoring 36 points is a lock? Stick with us! Don’t be alarmed by Rowell’s poor score. He only played the first half (41 per cent game time) before being rested in the second half. In his time on the ground Rowell had 14 disposals and looked the goods playing on ball. Given the lack of rookie options to this point in the pre-season, he is as big of a lock as they come.

THE ROOKIE BOLTER: Connor Budarick $106,900 FWD/MID – 37 points

It’s a similar story to Rowell, don’t write him off because his low score was from only 45 per cent game time. Connor had eight disposals and two tackles but it doesn’t take this kid a lot to score points. It was not a great sign that he only came on only in the second half, but his Marsh 1 was super impressive – and he didn’t disappoint in this game either! Only Rowell and young Giant Tom Green averaged more SuperCoach points in last year’s NAB League than Budarick, so if he is named for Round 1, put him in!

THE ROOKIE SMOKEY: Ben Davis $123,900 FWD – 43 points

Davis is looking like a bigger chance to play in the Crows’ season opener by the day. While 43 points doesn’t scream “pick me”, his possible selection in Round 1 could be enough for him to make his way into a number of SuperCoach sides. The excitement machine hits the scoreboard (he was the Crows’ SANFL team’s leading goalscorer in 2018) and could play senior footy this year. Keep an eye on the selection table.

Consistency will be key for Christian Petracca.MELBOURNE 81 DEF HAWTHORN 49

THE BREAKOUT: Christian Petracca $441,300 FWD – 72 SuperCoach points

Petracca followed his mammoth Marsh 1 performance with a sub-par 72 SuperCoach points. His again played as a full-time midfielder, leading the Demons for centre bounce attendances and accumulating 23 disposals, three tackles and three marks in 89 per cent game time. His role remains fantastic, but there remains a question mark on his consistency.

MR RELIABLE: Clayton Oliver $593,00 MID – 84 points

Oliver copped a knee knock early and struggled throughout the game, notching 22 disposals and five tackles in 82 per cent game time. The emergence of Petracca, coupled with the knee knock, meant Oliver played forward at times, which put his scoring potential under threat. Oliver will always be a solid option but there may be better scorers available for only 50k more.

THE PROVEN STAR: James Sicily $509,500 DEF – 95 points

Sicily looks set to return to his best this season after starring in his only Marsh Series game of 2020. His score of 95 doesn’t seem spectacular, but a game-high nine clangers limited his output. Playing loose in defence, he racked up 29 touches, eight marks and three tackles. As long as his role remains the same, coaches can expect big things from the fiery redhead.

LOCK HIM IN: Max Gawn $697,100 RUCK – 68 points

Gawn played just 41 per cent of the game in his return from a knee injury, but the fact he scored 68 points in that time confirms just how good he is. He only played the first half and accumulated 14 hit-outs, seven disposals and four marks. There is no questioning Gawn’s scoring potential, but his recent injury means he is somewhat underdone. Despite this concern, he is almost guaranteed to be a top-two ruckman and a great pick.

Lock James Sicily into your SuperCoach team with confidence. Picture: Michael KleinFREMANTLE 55 DEF WEST COAST 54

NEW YEAR, SAME STORY: Stephen Hill $190,600 DEF-FWD – 36 SuperCoach points

Despite a rusty few moments, Hill looked solid in 56 per cent game time. Playing his customary role off half back, the speedster racked up nine disposals and two marks as he eased his way back into AFL football. Despite promising signs, it was later revealed the Docker actually injured his quadricep. It’s time to cut ties with Hill as his health is constantly an issue.

UNDERRATED PREMIUM: Andrew Gaff $583,200 MID – 133 points

This could be the year that Gaff takes his scoring to the next level. With the likes of Luke Shuey and Tim Kelly commanding more attention, the wingman will roam free doing what he does best. He dominated this game with 33 disposals (28 effective), five tackles and seven marks. Gaff looms as a genuine POD for your midfield.

THE MESSIAH: Nat Fyfe $651,600 MID – 115 points

The reigning Brownlow medallist will always be an elite scorer and you can count on him year in, year out. Although quiet by his standards, Fyfe accumulated 23 disposals, seven marks and four tackles in 84 per cent game time. His injury history is a cause for concern, but Fyfe will no doubt be one of the best scorers once again.

BUDDING STAR: Andrew Brayshaw $382,800 FWD-MID – 102 points

Mark this man down for a breakout year. Brayshaw has been phenomenal across his first two games playing as a permanent inside midfielder. The former No.2 draft selection racked up 25

disposals, five clearances and eight tackles in an impressive display. Brayshaw looks like a solid mid-priced option considering he still has forward status but will play a midfield role.

Sadly, popular Fremantle Dockers cheapie Stephen Hill is injured again.

 

[Professor]

MORE KFC SUPERCOACH:

How do you split superstar SuperCoach mids?

SuperCoach guns most vulnerable to taggers

SuperCoach Rookie Bible: How to solve cheapie crisis

PORT ADELAIDE 95 DEF WESTERN BULLDOGS 85

THE BREAKOUT RUCKMAN: Tim English $448,400 RUC – 123 SuperCoach points

This highly touted young ruckman is looking to continue his career progression in his fourth season. English improved his average to 83 points last season from 64 the year before, and has started this year taking it up a notch, scoring 123 in his only Marsh game. English was dominant against the Power, kicking two goals to go with his 37 hit-outs and 13 disposals, earning him a team-high 123 points – although it’s worth noting opponent Scott Lycett left the ground injured early in the game. If Tim English is able to improve again, an average of over 100 isn’t out of the question.

THE FAST FINISHER: Darcy Byrne-Jones $473,400 DEF – 94 points

Coming off of a career-high average of 87.2 in 2019, Byrne-Jones has the potential to improve again this season with fellow defender Dan Houston moving into the midfield. In Byrne-Jones’ final 14 games of last season he boasted an average of 95, and that includes a poultry seven points in Round 22. In this Marsh match, Byrne-Jones accumulated 26 disposals playing as a rebounding defender, a role that could see him challenge as a top-eight defender.

THE OLD STAR: Robbie Gray $453,000 FWD – 93 points

After a sub-par 2019 in which Gray averaged below 90 for this first time since 2013, this season could be a return to premium status for the small forward. It took just 19 disposals for Gray to rack up 93 points. Spending most of his time forward, Gray was impactful without directly hitting the scoreboard. With Port Adelaide having the fifth easiest draw in 2020, it could be a redemption season for Gray, who has shown himself capable of averaging alongside the top forwards several times already in seasons past.

MR RELIABLE: Justin Westhoff $435,500 FWD/MID – 108 points

Marsh 2 was kind to Westhoff as he started forward and pushed into the ruck in rotation with Lycett and Peter Ladhams at different intervals. A similar role saw Westhoff average over 100 SuperCoach points in 2018, if he can secure this role for the season proper coaches could have another underpriced premium to consider for our sides. In 70 per cent time on ground, Westhoff gathered 22 disposals to go with his 17 hit-outs and a goal, showing the competition that he is still more than a handful at his mature age. Watch this role carefully as it could have been a once-off due to the Lycett injury.

 

[Presto]

Marcus Bontempelli, Patrick Dangerfield, Clayton Oliver facing De Boer KFC SuperCoach clamp early in 2020

Matt De Boer, Dylan Clarke and Jack Steele thwarted thousands of SuperCoaches last season. Fantasy Freako looks at the players most susceptible to taggers and pinpoints how to avoid the AFL’s lockdown players in 2020.

Fantasy Freako, Herald Sun

Subscriber only

March 10, 2020 7:00am

First we had to worry about Kane Cornes, Cameron Ling, Stephen Baker and Brett Kirk.

The quartet had one thing in common – they were hard-nosed taggers.

They would clamp down on the opposition’s most damaging midfielder, and more

often than not would completely nullify them.

There weren’t many that got away and they built their reputation on defensive diligence.

The modern-day version of the aforementioned taggers have been James

Harmes, Matt de Boer, Dylan Clarke and Jack Steele.

They ruined plenty of KFC SuperCoach scores last season, ranking first to fourth respectively among taggers in terms of effectiveness – using AFL player rating points as the measure.

If we analyse midfielders who wilted under the close attention of a tagger, Patrick

Cripps was one of the big guns that succumbed to extra attention.

He scored less than 90 points in six games and was tagged on each occasion, with de Boer, Clarke, Jack Macrae, David Swallow and Elliot Yeo keeping him in check.

Facing Matt De Boer twice in 2020



Patrick Dangerfield: Round 1 and 21

Marcus Bontempelli: Round 3 and 13

Dylan Shiel: Round 4 and 17

Luke Parker: Round 5 and 19

Dion Prestia: Round 7 and 15

Marcus Bontempelli was another player that struggled with a tag.

In fact, his four lowest scores of the season all came when he was closely manned up – de Boer (twice), Yeo and Jack Steele all enjoyed great success against him.

Clayton Oliver was also targeted, with two of his three lowest scores coming under

the attention of a tagger, with de Boer and Macrae keeping him quiet.

Even Tim Kelly wasn’t immune, even though the Cats had the prolific Patrick

Dangerfield in their side.

Kelly’s lowest score of the season was against GWS Giants, while he was also quelled by Steele.
Two of his new teammates, Elliot Yeo and Mark Hutchings, worked him over when Geelong took on the Eagles.

Lachie Neale didn’t have many stinkers, but he was kept to a season-low 17 disposals

and 47 points by de Boer in the Lions’ semi-final loss.

Neale racked up 31 disposals and 149 points in the only other meeting between the sides, when de Boer missed through injury.

Dylan Clarke enjoyed success as a tagger for Essendon last season.

The common denominator in this analysis has been de Boer.

His ability to nullify the AFL’s premier on-ballers is unparalleled.

GWS faces the Cats, Tigers, Bulldogs, Swans and Bombers twice in 2020.

In terms of navigating the De Boer tag, I have taken the liberty of highlighting his potential opponents in the tables above and below.

This can be used as a guide when picking your captain, but take note, these opponents

are based on recent history and are obviously not set in stone.

If you have a starting midfield of Dangerfield, Oliver and Bontempelli, you may

labour through the opening month of the campaign.

That trio is likely to be De Boer’s opponents over the first three rounds, with Dangerfield (66), Oliver (53) and Bontempelli (84) returning poor scores in their most recent match against the Giants.

You could opt to start with Tom Mitchell, Nat Fyfe and Lachie Neale instead, as they won’t face the Giants until Round 18.

In the case of Fyfe, he’ll likely have de Boer by his side in Round 22 — KFC SuperCoach preliminary final week.

In KFC SuperCoach, there is nothing worse than seeing a tagger go straight to one of your

players at the opening bounce.

The feeling is even worse if he’s your captain. All you can do is ride it out and move onto the next match.

Matt De Boer's likely opponents

Round 1 Patrick Dangerfield

Round 2 Clayton Oliver

Round 3 Marcus Bontempelli

Round 4 Dylan Shiel

Round 5 Luke Parker

Round 6 David Swallow

Round 7 Dion Prestia

Round 8 Adam Treloar

Round 9 Jack Steele

Round 10 Tim Kelly

Round 11 Brad Crouch

Round 12 Patrick Cripps

Round 13 Marcus Bontempelli

Round 14 Bye

Round 15 Dion Prestia

Round 16 Shaun Higgins

Round 17 Dylan Shiel

Round 18 Tom Mitchell

Round 19 Luke Parker

Round 20 Lachie Neale

Round 21 Patrick Dangerfield

Round 22 Nat Fyfe

Round 23 Travis Boak