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https://www.afl.com.au/news/384822/tackle-gone-wrong-leaves-star-eagle-in-elbow-brace-for-a-month
Despite what Simmo has said about it that has to help with Williams' chances to play early.
Despite what Simmo has said about it that has to help with Williams' chances to play early.
Did anyone else see this? Seems fairly well written by the AFL authors on who will get selected in R1 (although they've inevitably made assumptions on injuries to certain players).
Rookies predicted to be named
D: Noble, Ash, BZT, Mcasey, Starcevich, Brander, Williams
M: Rowell, Anderson, Serong, Green, Pickett
R: CCJ, Jackson
F: KKPickett, Georgiades, Taylor, Davis, Rankine, King, Sturt, Townsend, Schultz, ZGL
Predicted to miss out:
Listed as Emergencies
D: Williamson, Watson, Z.Guthrie,
M: Stephens, T Brown, RCD, Robertson
R: Cameron
F: Bonar, Sparrow, Frampton, Crocker, Weightman, Budarick
Not listed at all:
D: H.Young, Butts
M: McInerney, M.Hibberd (inj)
R: Xerri, De Koning
F: J.Mahony
Might've missed some more expensive ones but interesting predictions were that Watson (Duman to play), Budarick (Joyce to play), Robertson (Answerth to play) miss out.
DStephens and Xerri to come in if Reid and BBrown aren’t right.
Serong plays over CBlakely and Ash over Cummings.
https://www.afl.com.au/news/384196/mock-teams-who-s-in-the-22-for-r1-we-make-the-call
Thursday, March 19
Richmond v Carlton, MCG, 7.25pm
RICHMOND
B: Dylan Grimes, David Astbury, Nathan Broad
HB: Bachar Houli, Nick Vlastuin, Jayden Short
C: Josh Caddy, Dion Prestia, Shane Edwards
HF: Daniel Rioli, Jack Riewoldt, Kane Lambert
F: Shai Bolton, Tom Lynch, Jason Castagna
Foll: Ivan Soldo, Trent Cotchin, Dustin Martin
I/C: Callum Coleman-Jones, Marlion Pickett, Sydney Stack, Liam Baker
EMERG: Riley Collier-Dawkins, Noah Balta, Jack Ross, Jack Higgins
NEW: Nil
UNAVAILABLE: Jack Graham (shoulder) Kamdyn McIntosh (ankle), Toby Nankervis (groin)
NOTES: Graham, McIntosh and Nankervis are set to play a VFL practice match the weekend ahead of round one and are building after pre-season injuries but look to have narrowly run out of time for the season-opener. Coleman-Jones is deserving of a spot after an impressive summer and has edged out Balta and also Mabior Chol while Collier-Dawkins is stiff to miss but will play at some stage this year. Ross will work his way back into the team when the opportunity arises after being strongly considered for the Grand Final. - Jennifer Phelan
CARLTON
B: Sam Docherty, Jacob Weitering, Lachie Plowman
HB: Sam Petrevski-Seton, Liam Jones, Kade Simpson
C: Sam Walsh, Patrick Cripps, Will Setterfield
HF: Jack Martin, Mitch McGovern, Zac Fisher
F: Michael Gibbons, Levi Casboult, Eddie Betts
FOLL: Matthew Kreuzer, Marc Murphy, Ed Curnow
I/C: Nic Newman, Jack Newnes, Jack Silvagni, Paddy Dow
EMERG: Tom Williamson, Marc Pittonet, Matthew Kennedy, David Cuningham
NEW: Jack Martin, Eddie Betts, Jack Newnes
UNAVAILABLE: Harry McKay (groin), Brodie Kemp (knee), Caleb Marchbank (knee), Charlie Curnow (knee)
NOTES: The big concern has shifted from McKay, who will almost certainly miss round one through a groin injury, to Marchbank. The key defender is battling a knock to the knee, which could prove one hurdle too far after a pre-season that was delayed by a neck injury. Petrevski-Seton is likely to make the team, having played a half in a VFL practice match last week as he returns from a quad problem. Newman should win the seventh defensive spot ahead of Williamson and Cam Polson, while the versatility of Silvagni and Dow might edge them ahead of emergencies Kennedy and Cunningham. Fellow first-round picks including Liam Stocker, Sam Philp and Lochie O'Brien will be in reserve. Casboult will support Kreuzer as the second ruckman, with Pittonet just ahead of Tom De Koning as an emergency. - Riley Beveridge
Friday, March 20
Western Bulldogs v Collingwood, MCG, 7.50pm
WESTERN BULLDOGS
B: Easton Wood, Zaine Cordy, Hayden Crozier
HB: Caleb Daniel, Alex Keath, Jason Johannisen
C: Lachie Hunter, Marcus Bontempelli, Matt Suckling
HF: Bailey Smith, Josh Schache, Sam Lloyd
FF: Mitch Wallis, Josh Bruce, Bailey Dale
Foll: Tim English, Jack Macrae, Josh Dunkley
I/C: Pat Lipinski, Bailey Williams, Ed Richards, Lewis Young
EMERG: Toby McLean, Roarke Smith, Tory Dickson, Cody Weightman
NEW: Alex Keath, Josh Bruce
UNAVAILABLE: Aaron Naughton (knee), Tom Liberatore (knee), Taylor Duryea (groin), Lin Jong (hamstring) Will Hayes (suspended)
NOTES: Naughton is still touch and go after a knee arthroscopy at the end of February, but the Dogs may just give him an extra week to make sure he's right to go. Hayes looked to have grabbed a spot on the wing, but he'll miss round one through suspension so Suckling or Smith will be battling for that spot. Whether the Dogs go for Young as a forward to try and overpower Collingwood in round one or go smaller with McLean will be Luke Beveridge's biggest headache. - Jourdan Canil
COLLINGWOOD
B: Brayden Maynard, Jordan Roughead, Jeremy Howe
HB: Jack Crisp, Darcy Moore, John Noble
C: Tom Phillips, Scott Pendlebury, Chris Mayne
HF: Steele Sidebottom, Brody Mihocek, Will Hoskin-Elliott
F: Jamie Elliott, Mason Cox, Jaidyn Stephenson
Foll: Brodie Grundy, Jordan De Goey, Taylor Adams
I/C: Josh Daicos, Rupert Wills, Callum Brown, Josh Thomas
EMERG: Darcy Cameron, Tyler Brown, Nathan Murphy, Jack Madgen
NEW: Darcy Cameron
UNAVAILABLE: Adam Treloar (hamstring), Tom Langdon (knee), Travis Varcoe (shoulder), Lynden Dunn (knee), Levi Greenwood (knee), Dayne Beams (mental health), Tim Broomhead (leg)
NOTES: This powerful line-up closely resembles those that have served the club so well over the past two years when they have surged into premiership contention. The short-term absence of speedy ball-winner Treloar means the explosive De Goey will spend more time in the midfield. Adams' recovery from a hip problem will also be closely monitored. Diminutive duo Noble and Daicos earned their spots after terrific Marsh Community Series efforts. Cox's forward/ruck role is under threat from ex-Swan Cameron but the 'American Pie' deserves first crack. Key forward Ben Reid is unlikely due to team balance and a possible ankle issue. - Ben Collins
Saturday, March 21
Essendon v Fremantle, Marvel Stadium, 1.45pm AEDT
ESSENDON
B: Mason Redman, Brandon Zerk-Thatcher, Martin Gleeson
HB: Conor McKenna, Michael Hurley, Adam Saad
C: Andrew McGrath, Zach Merrett, David Zaharakis
HF: Orazio Fantasia, Shaun McKernan, Devon Smith
F: Anthony McDonald-Tipungwuti, Jake Stringer, Jacob Townsend
Foll: Andrew Phillips, Dylan Shiel, Darcy Parish
I/C: Jordan Ridley, Matt Guelfi, Aaron Francis, Tom Cutler
EMERG: Brayden Ham, Will Snelling, Kyle Langford, Jayden Laverde
NEW: Tom Cutler, Andrew Phillips, Jacob Townsend
UNAVAILABLE: Patrick Ambrose (knee), Tom Bellchambers (knee), Joe Daniher (groin), Sam Draper (knee), Noah Gown (foot), Dyson Heppell (foot), Mitch Hibberd (knee), Cale Hooker (hip), Lachie Johnson (knee), James Stewart (groin)
NOTES: Essendon isn't stocked for tall forwards, so that's the area that looks most bare heading into round one. All the emergencies are right on the fringe of selection, with Zaharakis' spot no certainty. Townsend's performance against the Cats should see him earn a place for round one, as with Ridley. Cutler's place seems less assured after playing a half in the VFL on Monday, but it will depend what the Bombers think is their best midfield mix. - Callum Twomey
FREMANTLE
B: Taylin Duman, Griffin Logue, Ethan Hughes
HB: Luke Ryan, Brennan Cox, Reece Conca
C: James Aish, Nat Fyfe, Cam McCarthy
HF: Michael Walters, Rory Lobb, Lachie Schultz
F: Bailey Banfield, Sam Sturt, Matt Taberner
Foll: Sean Darcy, Andrew Brayshaw, Darcy Tucker
I/C: Adam Cerra, Mitch Crowden, Brett Bewley, Caleb Serong
EMERG: Connor Blakely, Tobe Watson, Travis Colyer, Brandon Matera
NEW: James Aish, Sam Sturt, Caleb Serong
UNAVAILABLE: Blake Acres (hamstring), Joel Hamling (ankle), Stephen Hill (quad), Jesse Hogan (mental health), David Mundy (leg), Alex Pearce (ankle), Sam Switkowski (back), Nathan Wilson (toe)
NOTES: McCarthy edges Bewley in a starting wing role purely on the strength of his final pre-season game, but there is room for both with Aish seen as a multi-role player who will likely rotate back. The new-look defence picks itself with the injury concerns, but it was hard to leave the impressive Watson out. Blakely was not included for the second Marsh Community Series match in an ominous sign, although it wouldn't surprise to see him in the round one 22. Banfield is picked as a defensive forward, while Sturt looks at home coming out of the goalsquare and deserves a debut. Serong also looks ready and has shown flashes of excellence in the pre-season. – Nathan Schmook
Rookies predicted to be named
D: Noble, Ash, BZT, Mcasey, Starcevich, Brander, Williams
M: Rowell, Anderson, Serong, Green, Pickett
R: CCJ, Jackson
F: KKPickett, Georgiades, Taylor, Davis, Rankine, King, Sturt, Townsend, Schultz, ZGL
Predicted to miss out:
Listed as Emergencies
D: Williamson, Watson, Z.Guthrie,
M: Stephens, T Brown, RCD, Robertson
R: Cameron
F: Bonar, Sparrow, Frampton, Crocker, Weightman, Budarick
Not listed at all:
D: H.Young, Butts
M: McInerney, M.Hibberd (inj)
R: Xerri, De Koning
F: J.Mahony
Might've missed some more expensive ones but interesting predictions were that Watson (Duman to play), Budarick (Joyce to play), Robertson (Answerth to play) miss out.
DStephens and Xerri to come in if Reid and BBrown aren’t right.
Serong plays over CBlakely and Ash over Cummings.
https://www.afl.com.au/news/384196/mock-teams-who-s-in-the-22-for-r1-we-make-the-call
Thursday, March 19
Richmond v Carlton, MCG, 7.25pm
RICHMOND
B: Dylan Grimes, David Astbury, Nathan Broad
HB: Bachar Houli, Nick Vlastuin, Jayden Short
C: Josh Caddy, Dion Prestia, Shane Edwards
HF: Daniel Rioli, Jack Riewoldt, Kane Lambert
F: Shai Bolton, Tom Lynch, Jason Castagna
Foll: Ivan Soldo, Trent Cotchin, Dustin Martin
I/C: Callum Coleman-Jones, Marlion Pickett, Sydney Stack, Liam Baker
EMERG: Riley Collier-Dawkins, Noah Balta, Jack Ross, Jack Higgins
NEW: Nil
UNAVAILABLE: Jack Graham (shoulder) Kamdyn McIntosh (ankle), Toby Nankervis (groin)
NOTES: Graham, McIntosh and Nankervis are set to play a VFL practice match the weekend ahead of round one and are building after pre-season injuries but look to have narrowly run out of time for the season-opener. Coleman-Jones is deserving of a spot after an impressive summer and has edged out Balta and also Mabior Chol while Collier-Dawkins is stiff to miss but will play at some stage this year. Ross will work his way back into the team when the opportunity arises after being strongly considered for the Grand Final. - Jennifer Phelan
CARLTON
B: Sam Docherty, Jacob Weitering, Lachie Plowman
HB: Sam Petrevski-Seton, Liam Jones, Kade Simpson
C: Sam Walsh, Patrick Cripps, Will Setterfield
HF: Jack Martin, Mitch McGovern, Zac Fisher
F: Michael Gibbons, Levi Casboult, Eddie Betts
FOLL: Matthew Kreuzer, Marc Murphy, Ed Curnow
I/C: Nic Newman, Jack Newnes, Jack Silvagni, Paddy Dow
EMERG: Tom Williamson, Marc Pittonet, Matthew Kennedy, David Cuningham
NEW: Jack Martin, Eddie Betts, Jack Newnes
UNAVAILABLE: Harry McKay (groin), Brodie Kemp (knee), Caleb Marchbank (knee), Charlie Curnow (knee)
NOTES: The big concern has shifted from McKay, who will almost certainly miss round one through a groin injury, to Marchbank. The key defender is battling a knock to the knee, which could prove one hurdle too far after a pre-season that was delayed by a neck injury. Petrevski-Seton is likely to make the team, having played a half in a VFL practice match last week as he returns from a quad problem. Newman should win the seventh defensive spot ahead of Williamson and Cam Polson, while the versatility of Silvagni and Dow might edge them ahead of emergencies Kennedy and Cunningham. Fellow first-round picks including Liam Stocker, Sam Philp and Lochie O'Brien will be in reserve. Casboult will support Kreuzer as the second ruckman, with Pittonet just ahead of Tom De Koning as an emergency. - Riley Beveridge
Friday, March 20
Western Bulldogs v Collingwood, MCG, 7.50pm
WESTERN BULLDOGS
B: Easton Wood, Zaine Cordy, Hayden Crozier
HB: Caleb Daniel, Alex Keath, Jason Johannisen
C: Lachie Hunter, Marcus Bontempelli, Matt Suckling
HF: Bailey Smith, Josh Schache, Sam Lloyd
FF: Mitch Wallis, Josh Bruce, Bailey Dale
Foll: Tim English, Jack Macrae, Josh Dunkley
I/C: Pat Lipinski, Bailey Williams, Ed Richards, Lewis Young
EMERG: Toby McLean, Roarke Smith, Tory Dickson, Cody Weightman
NEW: Alex Keath, Josh Bruce
UNAVAILABLE: Aaron Naughton (knee), Tom Liberatore (knee), Taylor Duryea (groin), Lin Jong (hamstring) Will Hayes (suspended)
NOTES: Naughton is still touch and go after a knee arthroscopy at the end of February, but the Dogs may just give him an extra week to make sure he's right to go. Hayes looked to have grabbed a spot on the wing, but he'll miss round one through suspension so Suckling or Smith will be battling for that spot. Whether the Dogs go for Young as a forward to try and overpower Collingwood in round one or go smaller with McLean will be Luke Beveridge's biggest headache. - Jourdan Canil
COLLINGWOOD
B: Brayden Maynard, Jordan Roughead, Jeremy Howe
HB: Jack Crisp, Darcy Moore, John Noble
C: Tom Phillips, Scott Pendlebury, Chris Mayne
HF: Steele Sidebottom, Brody Mihocek, Will Hoskin-Elliott
F: Jamie Elliott, Mason Cox, Jaidyn Stephenson
Foll: Brodie Grundy, Jordan De Goey, Taylor Adams
I/C: Josh Daicos, Rupert Wills, Callum Brown, Josh Thomas
EMERG: Darcy Cameron, Tyler Brown, Nathan Murphy, Jack Madgen
NEW: Darcy Cameron
UNAVAILABLE: Adam Treloar (hamstring), Tom Langdon (knee), Travis Varcoe (shoulder), Lynden Dunn (knee), Levi Greenwood (knee), Dayne Beams (mental health), Tim Broomhead (leg)
NOTES: This powerful line-up closely resembles those that have served the club so well over the past two years when they have surged into premiership contention. The short-term absence of speedy ball-winner Treloar means the explosive De Goey will spend more time in the midfield. Adams' recovery from a hip problem will also be closely monitored. Diminutive duo Noble and Daicos earned their spots after terrific Marsh Community Series efforts. Cox's forward/ruck role is under threat from ex-Swan Cameron but the 'American Pie' deserves first crack. Key forward Ben Reid is unlikely due to team balance and a possible ankle issue. - Ben Collins
Saturday, March 21
Essendon v Fremantle, Marvel Stadium, 1.45pm AEDT
ESSENDON
B: Mason Redman, Brandon Zerk-Thatcher, Martin Gleeson
HB: Conor McKenna, Michael Hurley, Adam Saad
C: Andrew McGrath, Zach Merrett, David Zaharakis
HF: Orazio Fantasia, Shaun McKernan, Devon Smith
F: Anthony McDonald-Tipungwuti, Jake Stringer, Jacob Townsend
Foll: Andrew Phillips, Dylan Shiel, Darcy Parish
I/C: Jordan Ridley, Matt Guelfi, Aaron Francis, Tom Cutler
EMERG: Brayden Ham, Will Snelling, Kyle Langford, Jayden Laverde
NEW: Tom Cutler, Andrew Phillips, Jacob Townsend
UNAVAILABLE: Patrick Ambrose (knee), Tom Bellchambers (knee), Joe Daniher (groin), Sam Draper (knee), Noah Gown (foot), Dyson Heppell (foot), Mitch Hibberd (knee), Cale Hooker (hip), Lachie Johnson (knee), James Stewart (groin)
NOTES: Essendon isn't stocked for tall forwards, so that's the area that looks most bare heading into round one. All the emergencies are right on the fringe of selection, with Zaharakis' spot no certainty. Townsend's performance against the Cats should see him earn a place for round one, as with Ridley. Cutler's place seems less assured after playing a half in the VFL on Monday, but it will depend what the Bombers think is their best midfield mix. - Callum Twomey
FREMANTLE
B: Taylin Duman, Griffin Logue, Ethan Hughes
HB: Luke Ryan, Brennan Cox, Reece Conca
C: James Aish, Nat Fyfe, Cam McCarthy
HF: Michael Walters, Rory Lobb, Lachie Schultz
F: Bailey Banfield, Sam Sturt, Matt Taberner
Foll: Sean Darcy, Andrew Brayshaw, Darcy Tucker
I/C: Adam Cerra, Mitch Crowden, Brett Bewley, Caleb Serong
EMERG: Connor Blakely, Tobe Watson, Travis Colyer, Brandon Matera
NEW: James Aish, Sam Sturt, Caleb Serong
UNAVAILABLE: Blake Acres (hamstring), Joel Hamling (ankle), Stephen Hill (quad), Jesse Hogan (mental health), David Mundy (leg), Alex Pearce (ankle), Sam Switkowski (back), Nathan Wilson (toe)
NOTES: McCarthy edges Bewley in a starting wing role purely on the strength of his final pre-season game, but there is room for both with Aish seen as a multi-role player who will likely rotate back. The new-look defence picks itself with the injury concerns, but it was hard to leave the impressive Watson out. Blakely was not included for the second Marsh Community Series match in an ominous sign, although it wouldn't surprise to see him in the round one 22. Banfield is picked as a defensive forward, while Sturt looks at home coming out of the goalsquare and deserves a debut. Serong also looks ready and has shown flashes of excellence in the pre-season. – Nathan Schmook
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Adelaide v Sydney, Adelaide Oval, 4.35pm ACDT
ADELAIDE
B: Jake Kelly, Daniel Talia, Rory Laird
HB: Luke Brown, Fischer McAsey, Wayne Milera
C: Paul Seedsman, Brad Crouch, Rory Atkins
HF: Tom Lynch, Taylor Walker, Ben Davis
F: Tyson Stengle, Darcy Fogarty, Lachlan Murphy
Foll: Reilly O'Brien, Matt Crouch, Rory Sloane
I/C: Bryce Gibbs, Elliott Himmelberg, Chayce Jones, Brodie Smith
EMERG: Ben Crocker, Billy Frampton, David Mackay, Myles Poholke
NEW: Fischer McAsey
UNAVAILABLE: Tom Doedee (knee), Riley Knight (Achilles)
NOTES: Defender Doedee is the only notable absentee from the Crows' best 22. Doedee is an outside chance of being available, but it would be very unlikely he would slot straight back into the side in his comeback from a torn ACL. McAsey – last year's No.6 overall draft pick – all but locked in his spot with a strong showing against Gold Coast last week. Tall forward Himmelberg comes into the side to give another marking target, while also acting as the back-up for ruck O'Brien. The departures of experienced campaigners Eddie Betts, Josh Jenkins, Hugh Greenwood, Alex Keath, Cam Ellis-Yolmen and Sam Jacobs has opened the door for the likes of Davis, Stengle and Fogarty to get more opportunities. – Lee Gaskin
SYDNEY
B: Kaiden Brand, Dane Rampe, Callum Mills
HB: Jordan Dawson, Aliir Aliir, Jake Lloyd
C: Lewis Taylor, Josh Kennedy, James Rowbottom
HF: Tom Papley, Sam Reid, Will Hayward
F: Isaac Heeney, Callum Sinclair, Nick Blakey
Foll: Sam Naismith, Luke Parker, Oliver Florent
I/C: George Hewett, Sam Gray, Tom McCartin, Harry Cunningham
EMERG: Dylan Stephens, Colin O'Riordan, Ben Ronke, Ryan Clarke
NEW: Kaiden Brand, Lewis Taylor, Sam Gray
UNAVAILABLE: Lance Franklin (knee), Lewis Melican (hamstring)
NOTES: Off-season recruits Gray, Brand and Taylor all earn a spot after solid efforts in the Marsh Community Series. Brand fills an important role in defence with Melican out, while Taylor was great on a wing last week. Gray will add some bite inside 50. Florent earns a start in the centre square where his leg speed will be vital to complement the inside bulls Kennedy, Parker, Heeney and Hewett. We've gone with McCartin on the bench to add another target forward, while he can also go back if needed. Impressive draftee Stephens is unlucky, but he comes in for Reid if the forward (who has had a calf issue) isn't ready. - Adam Curley
Gold Coast v Port Adelaide, Metricon Stadium, 6.25pm AEST
GOLD COAST
B: Jesse Joyce, Sam Collins, Jack Lukosius
HB: Jack Bowes, Caleb Graham, Jarrod Harbrow
C: Brandon Ellis, Will Brodie, Noah Anderson
HF: Ben Ainsworth, Sam Day, David Swallow
F: Izak Rankine, Ben King, Darcy Macpherson
Foll: Jarrod Witts, Hugh Greenwood, Lachie Weller
I/C: Brayden Fiorini, Matt Rowell, Nick Holman, Touk Miller
EMERG: Jack Hombsch, Jordan Murdoch, Connor Budarick, Sean Lemmens
NEW: Noah Anderson, Brandon Ellis, Hugh Greenwood, Izak Rankine, Matt Rowell
UNAVAILABLE: Charlie Ballard (shoulder), Anthony Miles (chest), Wil Powell (knee), Alex Sexton (hamstring)
NOTES: Plenty of new faces during the off-season means plenty of change for the Suns. Although Sexton has not been ruled out of the opening round, it would be crazy to risk him for the sake of waiting another game or two. This opens the door for Rankine – also fresh back from a shoulder injury – to debut. He will be joined by fellow debutants Rowell and Anderson, exposing the bright future of the Suns first-up. Co-captain Witts and reliable running defender Harbrow are coming off pre-season injuries but are experienced and will not miss a beat. Brodie's excellent pre-season earns him a midfield spot, while Lemmens is the unluckiest omission. – Michael Whiting
PORT ADELAIDE
B: Ryan Burton, Tom Clurey, Tom Jonas
HB: Hamish Hartlett, Trent McKenzie, Darcy Byrne-Jones
C: Xavier Duursma, Tom Rockliff, Karl Amon
HF: Sam Powell-Pepper, Todd Marshall, Connor Rozee
F: Zak Butters, Charlie Dixon, Robbie Gray
Foll: Scott Lycett, Travis Boak, Dan Houston
I/C: Riley Bonner, Mitch Georgiades, Steven Motlop, Justin Westhoff
EMERG: Willem Drew, Brad Ebert, Kane Farrell, Jarrod Lienert
NEW: Mitch Georgiades
UNAVAILABLE: Ollie Wines (shoulder)
NOTES: The Power should have a debutant in their round one side with forward Georgiades having pushed his case during the pre-season. The question will be whether they carry three tall forwards (Georgiades, Dixon and Marshall) or go with a smaller forward like Farrell. Powell-Pepper's impressive form as a forward means there's no room in the side for experienced campaigner Ebert. Key defender McKenzie has done enough to earn his place in the side. The only notable absentee is vice-captain Wines, who is expected to miss at least the first month of the season recovering from shoulder surgery. - Lee Gaskin
Greater Western Sydney v Geelong, Giants Stadium, 7.25pm AEDT
GREATER WESTERN SYDNEY
B: Heath Shaw, Sam Taylor, Aidan Corr
HB: Lachie Whitfield, Phil Davis, Nick Haynes
C: Josh Kelly, Jacob Hopper, Harry Perryman
HF: Zac Langdon, Jeremy Cameron, Toby Greene
F: Jeremy Finlayson, Harry Himmelberg, Brent Daniels
Foll: Sam Jacobs, Stephen Coniglio, Matt de Boer
I/C: Adam Kennedy, Jackson Hately, Tom Green, Lachie Ash
EMERG: Sam Reid, Daniel Lloyd, Isaac Cumming, Shane Mumford
NEW: Sam Jacobs, Tom Green, Lachie Ash
UNAVAILABLE: Zac Williams (Achilles), Tim Taranto (shoulder), Callan Ward (knee), Matt Flynn (knee)
NOTES: Williams may play but at this stage he's more likely to get some minutes in the NEAFL as the club takes a conservative approach with his return from an Achilles (the same one he tore two years ago). Other tough calls include small forwards Langdon and Daniels ahead of Lloyd and Bobby Hill - a decision made purely on Marsh form. Impressive draftee Ash gets a spot over the unlucky Cumming and Reid for the seventh defender's spot. Hately was an easy selection and Green picked himself (the pair to play as extra midfielders) after quality pre-season games. We've gone for Whitfield at half-back where he can be most damaging, but he could end up anywhere on the ground. - Adam Curley
GEELONG
B: Jack Henry, Mark Blicavs, Tom Stewart
HB: Jordan Clark, Harry Taylor, Zach Tuohy
C: Cameron Guthrie, Patrick Dangerfield, Brandan Parfitt
HF: Gryan Miers, Tom Hawkins, Luke Dahlhaus
F: Tom Atkins, Esava Ratugolea, Gary Ablett
Foll: Darcy Fort, Jack Steven, Quinton Narkle
I/C: Jed Bews, Sam Menegola, Joel Selwood, Gary Rohan
EMERG: Mark O’Connor, Rhys Stanley, James Parsons, Zach Guthrie
NEW: Jack Steven (St Kilda)
UNAVAILABLE: Mitch Duncan (hip), Nakia Cockatoo (hamstring), Jake Kolodjashnij (hip), Nathan Kreuger (knee), Stefan Okunbor (Achilles).
NOTES: After an impressive showing on Monday against Essendon, Steven is a lock to debut for the Cats. Once again, a headache centres around the ruck, with Fort given the nod over Stanley with the three-tall forward set-up on ice for now. Now that Clark has settled into the backline, eight defenders can't go into seven. With Kolodjashnij absent, Henry just pushes out O'Connor. It came down to size of the Giants' attack, as well as there only being room for one of the pair after both had interrupted pre-seasons. Duncan could still play, but he appears more unlikely than likely. If he gets up, Menegola falls out. Selwood gets a tick provided he gets through match simulation on Saturday. - Mitch Cleary
ADELAIDE
B: Jake Kelly, Daniel Talia, Rory Laird
HB: Luke Brown, Fischer McAsey, Wayne Milera
C: Paul Seedsman, Brad Crouch, Rory Atkins
HF: Tom Lynch, Taylor Walker, Ben Davis
F: Tyson Stengle, Darcy Fogarty, Lachlan Murphy
Foll: Reilly O'Brien, Matt Crouch, Rory Sloane
I/C: Bryce Gibbs, Elliott Himmelberg, Chayce Jones, Brodie Smith
EMERG: Ben Crocker, Billy Frampton, David Mackay, Myles Poholke
NEW: Fischer McAsey
UNAVAILABLE: Tom Doedee (knee), Riley Knight (Achilles)
NOTES: Defender Doedee is the only notable absentee from the Crows' best 22. Doedee is an outside chance of being available, but it would be very unlikely he would slot straight back into the side in his comeback from a torn ACL. McAsey – last year's No.6 overall draft pick – all but locked in his spot with a strong showing against Gold Coast last week. Tall forward Himmelberg comes into the side to give another marking target, while also acting as the back-up for ruck O'Brien. The departures of experienced campaigners Eddie Betts, Josh Jenkins, Hugh Greenwood, Alex Keath, Cam Ellis-Yolmen and Sam Jacobs has opened the door for the likes of Davis, Stengle and Fogarty to get more opportunities. – Lee Gaskin
SYDNEY
B: Kaiden Brand, Dane Rampe, Callum Mills
HB: Jordan Dawson, Aliir Aliir, Jake Lloyd
C: Lewis Taylor, Josh Kennedy, James Rowbottom
HF: Tom Papley, Sam Reid, Will Hayward
F: Isaac Heeney, Callum Sinclair, Nick Blakey
Foll: Sam Naismith, Luke Parker, Oliver Florent
I/C: George Hewett, Sam Gray, Tom McCartin, Harry Cunningham
EMERG: Dylan Stephens, Colin O'Riordan, Ben Ronke, Ryan Clarke
NEW: Kaiden Brand, Lewis Taylor, Sam Gray
UNAVAILABLE: Lance Franklin (knee), Lewis Melican (hamstring)
NOTES: Off-season recruits Gray, Brand and Taylor all earn a spot after solid efforts in the Marsh Community Series. Brand fills an important role in defence with Melican out, while Taylor was great on a wing last week. Gray will add some bite inside 50. Florent earns a start in the centre square where his leg speed will be vital to complement the inside bulls Kennedy, Parker, Heeney and Hewett. We've gone with McCartin on the bench to add another target forward, while he can also go back if needed. Impressive draftee Stephens is unlucky, but he comes in for Reid if the forward (who has had a calf issue) isn't ready. - Adam Curley
Gold Coast v Port Adelaide, Metricon Stadium, 6.25pm AEST
GOLD COAST
B: Jesse Joyce, Sam Collins, Jack Lukosius
HB: Jack Bowes, Caleb Graham, Jarrod Harbrow
C: Brandon Ellis, Will Brodie, Noah Anderson
HF: Ben Ainsworth, Sam Day, David Swallow
F: Izak Rankine, Ben King, Darcy Macpherson
Foll: Jarrod Witts, Hugh Greenwood, Lachie Weller
I/C: Brayden Fiorini, Matt Rowell, Nick Holman, Touk Miller
EMERG: Jack Hombsch, Jordan Murdoch, Connor Budarick, Sean Lemmens
NEW: Noah Anderson, Brandon Ellis, Hugh Greenwood, Izak Rankine, Matt Rowell
UNAVAILABLE: Charlie Ballard (shoulder), Anthony Miles (chest), Wil Powell (knee), Alex Sexton (hamstring)
NOTES: Plenty of new faces during the off-season means plenty of change for the Suns. Although Sexton has not been ruled out of the opening round, it would be crazy to risk him for the sake of waiting another game or two. This opens the door for Rankine – also fresh back from a shoulder injury – to debut. He will be joined by fellow debutants Rowell and Anderson, exposing the bright future of the Suns first-up. Co-captain Witts and reliable running defender Harbrow are coming off pre-season injuries but are experienced and will not miss a beat. Brodie's excellent pre-season earns him a midfield spot, while Lemmens is the unluckiest omission. – Michael Whiting
PORT ADELAIDE
B: Ryan Burton, Tom Clurey, Tom Jonas
HB: Hamish Hartlett, Trent McKenzie, Darcy Byrne-Jones
C: Xavier Duursma, Tom Rockliff, Karl Amon
HF: Sam Powell-Pepper, Todd Marshall, Connor Rozee
F: Zak Butters, Charlie Dixon, Robbie Gray
Foll: Scott Lycett, Travis Boak, Dan Houston
I/C: Riley Bonner, Mitch Georgiades, Steven Motlop, Justin Westhoff
EMERG: Willem Drew, Brad Ebert, Kane Farrell, Jarrod Lienert
NEW: Mitch Georgiades
UNAVAILABLE: Ollie Wines (shoulder)
NOTES: The Power should have a debutant in their round one side with forward Georgiades having pushed his case during the pre-season. The question will be whether they carry three tall forwards (Georgiades, Dixon and Marshall) or go with a smaller forward like Farrell. Powell-Pepper's impressive form as a forward means there's no room in the side for experienced campaigner Ebert. Key defender McKenzie has done enough to earn his place in the side. The only notable absentee is vice-captain Wines, who is expected to miss at least the first month of the season recovering from shoulder surgery. - Lee Gaskin
Greater Western Sydney v Geelong, Giants Stadium, 7.25pm AEDT
GREATER WESTERN SYDNEY
B: Heath Shaw, Sam Taylor, Aidan Corr
HB: Lachie Whitfield, Phil Davis, Nick Haynes
C: Josh Kelly, Jacob Hopper, Harry Perryman
HF: Zac Langdon, Jeremy Cameron, Toby Greene
F: Jeremy Finlayson, Harry Himmelberg, Brent Daniels
Foll: Sam Jacobs, Stephen Coniglio, Matt de Boer
I/C: Adam Kennedy, Jackson Hately, Tom Green, Lachie Ash
EMERG: Sam Reid, Daniel Lloyd, Isaac Cumming, Shane Mumford
NEW: Sam Jacobs, Tom Green, Lachie Ash
UNAVAILABLE: Zac Williams (Achilles), Tim Taranto (shoulder), Callan Ward (knee), Matt Flynn (knee)
NOTES: Williams may play but at this stage he's more likely to get some minutes in the NEAFL as the club takes a conservative approach with his return from an Achilles (the same one he tore two years ago). Other tough calls include small forwards Langdon and Daniels ahead of Lloyd and Bobby Hill - a decision made purely on Marsh form. Impressive draftee Ash gets a spot over the unlucky Cumming and Reid for the seventh defender's spot. Hately was an easy selection and Green picked himself (the pair to play as extra midfielders) after quality pre-season games. We've gone for Whitfield at half-back where he can be most damaging, but he could end up anywhere on the ground. - Adam Curley
GEELONG
B: Jack Henry, Mark Blicavs, Tom Stewart
HB: Jordan Clark, Harry Taylor, Zach Tuohy
C: Cameron Guthrie, Patrick Dangerfield, Brandan Parfitt
HF: Gryan Miers, Tom Hawkins, Luke Dahlhaus
F: Tom Atkins, Esava Ratugolea, Gary Ablett
Foll: Darcy Fort, Jack Steven, Quinton Narkle
I/C: Jed Bews, Sam Menegola, Joel Selwood, Gary Rohan
EMERG: Mark O’Connor, Rhys Stanley, James Parsons, Zach Guthrie
NEW: Jack Steven (St Kilda)
UNAVAILABLE: Mitch Duncan (hip), Nakia Cockatoo (hamstring), Jake Kolodjashnij (hip), Nathan Kreuger (knee), Stefan Okunbor (Achilles).
NOTES: After an impressive showing on Monday against Essendon, Steven is a lock to debut for the Cats. Once again, a headache centres around the ruck, with Fort given the nod over Stanley with the three-tall forward set-up on ice for now. Now that Clark has settled into the backline, eight defenders can't go into seven. With Kolodjashnij absent, Henry just pushes out O'Connor. It came down to size of the Giants' attack, as well as there only being room for one of the pair after both had interrupted pre-seasons. Duncan could still play, but he appears more unlikely than likely. If he gets up, Menegola falls out. Selwood gets a tick provided he gets through match simulation on Saturday. - Mitch Cleary
Last edited:
Sunday, March 22
North Melbourne v St Kilda, Marvel Stadium, 1.10pm AEDT
NORTH MELBOURNE
B: Luke McDonald, Robbie Tarrant, Majak Daw
HB: Jasper Pittard, Josh Walker, Shaun Atley
C: Trent Dumont, Ben Cunnington, Jared Polec
HF: Curtis Taylor, Nick Larkey, Tarryn Thomas
F: Cam Zurhaar, Ben Brown, Jack Ziebell
Foll: Todd Goldstein, Shaun Higgins, Jy Simpkin
I/C: Jed Anderson, Jamie Macmillan, Taylor Garner, Aaron Hall
EMERG: Paul Ahern, Sam Durdin, Aiden Bonar, Tom Murphy
NEW: Josh Walker
UNAVAILABLE: Luke Davies-Uniacke (groin), Ben Jacobs (concussion), Kayne Turner (foot), Ed Vickers-Willis (knee), Marley Williams (suspension)
NOTES: Ahern is the big exclusion here and was reluctantly left out, with Hall's strong weekend performance clinching him a senior berth over the ex-Giant. Taylor is the other player who forced his way in off the pre-season. The defence was as good as settled with selection for the Roos' Marsh Community Series finale but there is still a wait to see whether Brown (calf) plays in round one, although he is on track to be available. If not, does the impressive Tristan Xerri get a look in, does Daw swing forward (meaning Durdin plays in defence), or does Ziebell – especially off a compromised pre-season – play as a stay-at-home forward? - Marc McGowan
ST KILDA
B: Dylan Roberton, Jake Carlisle, Jarryn Geary
HB: Callum Wilkie, Dougal Howard, Ben Long
C: Bradley Hill, Seb Ross, Josh Battle
HF: Jack Lonie, Tim Membrey, Jade Gresham
F: Jack Billings, Max King, Dan Butler
Foll: Rowan Marshall, Zak Jones, Luke Dunstan
I/C: Paddy Ryder, Dan Hannebery, Jack Sinclair, Jack Steele
EMERG: Matt Parker, Logan Austin, Shane Savage, Jonathon Marsh
NEW: Dan Butler, Bradley Hill, Dougal Howard, Zak Jones, Max King, Paddy Ryder
UNAVAILABLE: Nil
NOTES: There could be as many as six new faces line up for the Saints in round one with King the only genuine debutant after an exciting build-up over summer. Butler, Hill, Howard, Jones and Ryder slot in seamlessly after crossing from other clubs while ruckman Ryan Abbott misses out on balance. Parker is back playing but had a limited summer and has only just resumed, while Jimmy Webster has also had an interrupted lead-up and will likely need more time. Savage and Austin get squeezed out with the return of Geary and Roberton. - Jennifer Phelan
Hawthorn v Brisbane, MCG, 3.20pm AEDT
HAWTHORN
B: Ben Stratton, James Frawley, Sam Frost
HB: James Sicily, Ben McEvoy, Harry Morrison
C: Isaac Smith, Tom Mitchell, Tom Scully
HF: Chad Wingard, Mitch Lewis, Jack Gunston
F: Paul Puopolo, Jon Patton, Luke Breust
Foll: Jon Ceglar, James Worpel, Jaeger O'Meara
I/C: Liam Shiels, Ricky Henderson, Shaun Burgoyne, Tim O'Brien
EMERG: Jack Scrimshaw, Conor Nash, Ollie Hanrahan, James Cousins
NEW: Sam Frost, Jon Patton
UNAVAILABLE: Blake Hardwick (chest), Dan Howe (foot), Jarman Impey (knee)
NOTES: Gunston (ankle) and Lewis (ankle) are both under an injury cloud entering round one, which could have significant ramifications on selection but we'll assume they are both playing. Nash is the likeliest inclusion if either player doesn't come up, or could the Hawks spring a surprise and hand Jackson Ross his AFL debut, particularly if Gunston is absent? Leaving Scrimshaw out was hard, too, after his promising first campaign in brown and gold but the Hawks have a huge number of key defender-types. There is plenty of positional flexibility in the bench options. Cousins, Harry Jones and Finn Maginness are lining up for midfield openings. - Marc McGowan
BRISBANE
B: Darcy Gardiner, Harris Andrews, Noah Answerth
HB: Daniel Rich, Marcus Adams, Grant Birchall
C: Mitch Robinson, Jarryd Lyons, Hugh McCluggage
HF: Cam Rayner, Eric Hipwood, Dayne Zorko
F: Charlie Cameron, Dan McStay, Oscar McInerney
Foll: Stefan Martin, Lachie Neale, Jarrod Berry
I/C: Alex Witherden, Zac Bailey, Lincoln McCarthy, Brandon Starcevich
EMERG: Callum Ah Chee, Deven Robertson, Cam Ellis-Yolmen, Connor Ballenden
NEW: Grant Birchall
UNAVAILABLE: Nil
NOTES: Brisbane was the most settled line-up in the competition in 2019 and with no injuries during the pre-season, there wasn't many tough decisions. The biggest dilemma was the half-back line, with Ah Chee a terribly unlucky omission. Although it wouldn't surprise to see the former Sun get selected, he battled in the pre-season and didn't bring the run-and-carry the Lions hope for. Witherden and Answerth – the only true lockdown small defender – have done enough to hold him at bay. There was no reason to change the midfield and forward line that served the Lions so well in 2019. – Michael Whiting
West Coast v Melbourne, Optus Stadium, 3.20pm AWST
WEST COAST
B: Lewis Jetta, Tom Barrass, Brad Sheppard
HB: Liam Duggan, Jeremy McGovern, Shannon Hurn
C: Andrew Gaff, Elliot Yeo, Dom Sheed
HF: Jack Petruccelle, Jack Darling, Jamie Cripps
F: Jake Waterman, Josh Kennedy, Liam Ryan
Foll: Nic Naitanui, Luke Shuey, Tim Kelly
I/C: Jarrod Brander, Jack Redden, Jackson Nelson, Bailey Williams
EMERG: Brendon Ah Chee, Mark Hutchings, Josh Rotham, Nathan Vardy
NEW: Bailey Williams
UNAVAILABLE: Oscar Allen (ankle), Jarrod Cameron (pubic bone), Tom Cole (thumb), Luke Foley (pubic bone), Willie Rioli (suspension), Daniel Venables (concussion)
NOTES: Ah Chee was the toughest omission as the Eagles seem to have a defensive midfield role in mind for him. Will Schofield is also unlucky, but he can't fit into a full-strength backline. Nelson's versatility is important, while Williams looks the frontrunner for the second ruck spot. Vardy could easily get the nod here if the Eagles go safe against Max Gawn and the Demons. Brander on a wing has been the surprise of the pre-season, and the Eagles appear committed to using him in that role. Hutchings is another option there. Mature-age rookie Anthony Treacy is a wildcard if the Eagles need another small forward, rather than rotating Sheed and Kelly into attack. - Nathan Schmook
MELBOURNE
B: Michael Hibberd, Steven May, Neville Jetta
HB: Oscar McDonald, Jake Lever, James Harmes
C: Ed Langdon, Angus Brayshaw, Adam Tomlinson
HF: Bayley Fritsch, Luke Jackson, Jake Melksham
F: Christian Petracca, Tom McDonald, Kysaiah Pickett
Foll: Max Gawn, Jack Viney, Clayton Oliver
I/C: Alex Neal-Bullen, Charlie Spargo, Jay Lockhart, Nathan Jones
EMERG: Jayden Hunt, Mitch Brown, Sam Weideman, Tom Sparrow
NEW: Luke Jackson, Ed Langdon, Kysaiah Pickett, Adam Tomlinson,
UNAVAILABLE: Harley Bennell (calf), Kade Chandler (wrist), Mitch Hannan (groin), Kade Kolodjashnij (concussion), Harry Petty (groin), Braydon Preuss (knee), Aaron vandenBerg (foot)
NOTES: Tough call between Jackson and Weideman but Gawn himself said last week the former was a "genuine chance" for a round one debut. Given their first opponent is West Coast, it's hard to see both talls playing especially given the number of big defenders required against the big Eagles. Christian Salem is up against it to be fit after a recent bout of glandular fever while vandenBerg is out again with a fresh foot injury. Pickett gets in after a solid pre-season campaign while Langdon and Tomlinson will add speed and run to the wings. – Jennifer Phelan.
North Melbourne v St Kilda, Marvel Stadium, 1.10pm AEDT
NORTH MELBOURNE
B: Luke McDonald, Robbie Tarrant, Majak Daw
HB: Jasper Pittard, Josh Walker, Shaun Atley
C: Trent Dumont, Ben Cunnington, Jared Polec
HF: Curtis Taylor, Nick Larkey, Tarryn Thomas
F: Cam Zurhaar, Ben Brown, Jack Ziebell
Foll: Todd Goldstein, Shaun Higgins, Jy Simpkin
I/C: Jed Anderson, Jamie Macmillan, Taylor Garner, Aaron Hall
EMERG: Paul Ahern, Sam Durdin, Aiden Bonar, Tom Murphy
NEW: Josh Walker
UNAVAILABLE: Luke Davies-Uniacke (groin), Ben Jacobs (concussion), Kayne Turner (foot), Ed Vickers-Willis (knee), Marley Williams (suspension)
NOTES: Ahern is the big exclusion here and was reluctantly left out, with Hall's strong weekend performance clinching him a senior berth over the ex-Giant. Taylor is the other player who forced his way in off the pre-season. The defence was as good as settled with selection for the Roos' Marsh Community Series finale but there is still a wait to see whether Brown (calf) plays in round one, although he is on track to be available. If not, does the impressive Tristan Xerri get a look in, does Daw swing forward (meaning Durdin plays in defence), or does Ziebell – especially off a compromised pre-season – play as a stay-at-home forward? - Marc McGowan
ST KILDA
B: Dylan Roberton, Jake Carlisle, Jarryn Geary
HB: Callum Wilkie, Dougal Howard, Ben Long
C: Bradley Hill, Seb Ross, Josh Battle
HF: Jack Lonie, Tim Membrey, Jade Gresham
F: Jack Billings, Max King, Dan Butler
Foll: Rowan Marshall, Zak Jones, Luke Dunstan
I/C: Paddy Ryder, Dan Hannebery, Jack Sinclair, Jack Steele
EMERG: Matt Parker, Logan Austin, Shane Savage, Jonathon Marsh
NEW: Dan Butler, Bradley Hill, Dougal Howard, Zak Jones, Max King, Paddy Ryder
UNAVAILABLE: Nil
NOTES: There could be as many as six new faces line up for the Saints in round one with King the only genuine debutant after an exciting build-up over summer. Butler, Hill, Howard, Jones and Ryder slot in seamlessly after crossing from other clubs while ruckman Ryan Abbott misses out on balance. Parker is back playing but had a limited summer and has only just resumed, while Jimmy Webster has also had an interrupted lead-up and will likely need more time. Savage and Austin get squeezed out with the return of Geary and Roberton. - Jennifer Phelan
Hawthorn v Brisbane, MCG, 3.20pm AEDT
HAWTHORN
B: Ben Stratton, James Frawley, Sam Frost
HB: James Sicily, Ben McEvoy, Harry Morrison
C: Isaac Smith, Tom Mitchell, Tom Scully
HF: Chad Wingard, Mitch Lewis, Jack Gunston
F: Paul Puopolo, Jon Patton, Luke Breust
Foll: Jon Ceglar, James Worpel, Jaeger O'Meara
I/C: Liam Shiels, Ricky Henderson, Shaun Burgoyne, Tim O'Brien
EMERG: Jack Scrimshaw, Conor Nash, Ollie Hanrahan, James Cousins
NEW: Sam Frost, Jon Patton
UNAVAILABLE: Blake Hardwick (chest), Dan Howe (foot), Jarman Impey (knee)
NOTES: Gunston (ankle) and Lewis (ankle) are both under an injury cloud entering round one, which could have significant ramifications on selection but we'll assume they are both playing. Nash is the likeliest inclusion if either player doesn't come up, or could the Hawks spring a surprise and hand Jackson Ross his AFL debut, particularly if Gunston is absent? Leaving Scrimshaw out was hard, too, after his promising first campaign in brown and gold but the Hawks have a huge number of key defender-types. There is plenty of positional flexibility in the bench options. Cousins, Harry Jones and Finn Maginness are lining up for midfield openings. - Marc McGowan
BRISBANE
B: Darcy Gardiner, Harris Andrews, Noah Answerth
HB: Daniel Rich, Marcus Adams, Grant Birchall
C: Mitch Robinson, Jarryd Lyons, Hugh McCluggage
HF: Cam Rayner, Eric Hipwood, Dayne Zorko
F: Charlie Cameron, Dan McStay, Oscar McInerney
Foll: Stefan Martin, Lachie Neale, Jarrod Berry
I/C: Alex Witherden, Zac Bailey, Lincoln McCarthy, Brandon Starcevich
EMERG: Callum Ah Chee, Deven Robertson, Cam Ellis-Yolmen, Connor Ballenden
NEW: Grant Birchall
UNAVAILABLE: Nil
NOTES: Brisbane was the most settled line-up in the competition in 2019 and with no injuries during the pre-season, there wasn't many tough decisions. The biggest dilemma was the half-back line, with Ah Chee a terribly unlucky omission. Although it wouldn't surprise to see the former Sun get selected, he battled in the pre-season and didn't bring the run-and-carry the Lions hope for. Witherden and Answerth – the only true lockdown small defender – have done enough to hold him at bay. There was no reason to change the midfield and forward line that served the Lions so well in 2019. – Michael Whiting
West Coast v Melbourne, Optus Stadium, 3.20pm AWST
WEST COAST
B: Lewis Jetta, Tom Barrass, Brad Sheppard
HB: Liam Duggan, Jeremy McGovern, Shannon Hurn
C: Andrew Gaff, Elliot Yeo, Dom Sheed
HF: Jack Petruccelle, Jack Darling, Jamie Cripps
F: Jake Waterman, Josh Kennedy, Liam Ryan
Foll: Nic Naitanui, Luke Shuey, Tim Kelly
I/C: Jarrod Brander, Jack Redden, Jackson Nelson, Bailey Williams
EMERG: Brendon Ah Chee, Mark Hutchings, Josh Rotham, Nathan Vardy
NEW: Bailey Williams
UNAVAILABLE: Oscar Allen (ankle), Jarrod Cameron (pubic bone), Tom Cole (thumb), Luke Foley (pubic bone), Willie Rioli (suspension), Daniel Venables (concussion)
NOTES: Ah Chee was the toughest omission as the Eagles seem to have a defensive midfield role in mind for him. Will Schofield is also unlucky, but he can't fit into a full-strength backline. Nelson's versatility is important, while Williams looks the frontrunner for the second ruck spot. Vardy could easily get the nod here if the Eagles go safe against Max Gawn and the Demons. Brander on a wing has been the surprise of the pre-season, and the Eagles appear committed to using him in that role. Hutchings is another option there. Mature-age rookie Anthony Treacy is a wildcard if the Eagles need another small forward, rather than rotating Sheed and Kelly into attack. - Nathan Schmook
MELBOURNE
B: Michael Hibberd, Steven May, Neville Jetta
HB: Oscar McDonald, Jake Lever, James Harmes
C: Ed Langdon, Angus Brayshaw, Adam Tomlinson
HF: Bayley Fritsch, Luke Jackson, Jake Melksham
F: Christian Petracca, Tom McDonald, Kysaiah Pickett
Foll: Max Gawn, Jack Viney, Clayton Oliver
I/C: Alex Neal-Bullen, Charlie Spargo, Jay Lockhart, Nathan Jones
EMERG: Jayden Hunt, Mitch Brown, Sam Weideman, Tom Sparrow
NEW: Luke Jackson, Ed Langdon, Kysaiah Pickett, Adam Tomlinson,
UNAVAILABLE: Harley Bennell (calf), Kade Chandler (wrist), Mitch Hannan (groin), Kade Kolodjashnij (concussion), Harry Petty (groin), Braydon Preuss (knee), Aaron vandenBerg (foot)
NOTES: Tough call between Jackson and Weideman but Gawn himself said last week the former was a "genuine chance" for a round one debut. Given their first opponent is West Coast, it's hard to see both talls playing especially given the number of big defenders required against the big Eagles. Christian Salem is up against it to be fit after a recent bout of glandular fever while vandenBerg is out again with a fresh foot injury. Pickett gets in after a solid pre-season campaign while Langdon and Tomlinson will add speed and run to the wings. – Jennifer Phelan.
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Do you have a source for this, or just your opinion? Hard to see him playing given he didn't play in the second Marsh game
Edit: I'm sorry, I thought you were saying that he would play Round 1. Rather you were asking whether he would play
I think he won't
Edit: I'm sorry, I thought you were saying that he would play Round 1. Rather you were asking whether he would play
I think he won't
so based on what @Bomber18 just posted , more than enough rookies (24)
Noble , Ash * , BZT , McAsey , Starcevich * , Brander * , Williams *
Rowell , Anderson , Serong , Green , Pickett
Jackson
Townsend , Schultz , ZGL , CCJ * , Kropenyeri-Pickett , Georgiades , Davis , King , Rankine , Sturt , Taylor
shouldn't be too hard to create a side using these , wait for Wednesday to confirm Carlton & Richmond teams.
Hopefully clubs announce their debutants early in the week
Noble , Ash * , BZT , McAsey , Starcevich * , Brander * , Williams *
Rowell , Anderson , Serong , Green , Pickett
Jackson
Townsend , Schultz , ZGL , CCJ * , Kropenyeri-Pickett , Georgiades , Davis , King , Rankine , Sturt , Taylor
shouldn't be too hard to create a side using these , wait for Wednesday to confirm Carlton & Richmond teams.
Hopefully clubs announce their debutants early in the week