Defenders Discussion

soidog

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I reckon the whole Birchall/Suckling, Walker/Simpson & McVeigh/Malceski thing is interesting. I can see what coaches are trying to do and that's get the opposition to make a choice about who they're going to tag. It's difficult to tag both of them, particularly if you're already tagging say, Murphy and Jack. In the absence of Suckling last year, Mitchell and Hodge were used effectively, forcing the same result. I don't think it was a coincidence Malceski got off the chain last year and enjoyed a return to SC form, due to McVeigh being utilized in tandem with him. One bonus with Simpson may be that there wouldn't be many forwards who can run with him all day. I can't think of any off the top of my head.

Having said that, I haven't got a clue who I'll pick as a premium back next year. At the moment I'm thinking there's no way Hawthorn will use Mitchell in the back line with a fit Suckling, Hodge etc, he'll play in the middle so he might be a good pick. Just my two cents.
 

IDIG

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I reckon the whole Birchall/Suckling, Walker/Simpson & McVeigh/Malceski thing is interesting. I can see what coaches are trying to do and that's get the opposition to make a choice about who they're going to tag. It's difficult to tag both of them, particularly if you're already tagging say, Murphy and Jack. In the absence of Suckling last year, Mitchell and Hodge were used effectively, forcing the same result. I don't think it was a coincidence Malceski got off the chain last year and enjoyed a return to SC form, due to McVeigh being utilized in tandem with him. One bonus with Simpson may be that there wouldn't be many forwards who can run with him all day. I can't think of any off the top of my head.

Having said that, I haven't got a clue who I'll pick as a premium back next year. At the moment I'm thinking there's no way Hawthorn will use Mitchell in the back line with a fit Suckling, Hodge etc, he'll play in the middle so he might be a good pick. Just my two cents.
A lot to like about this post actually and pretty damn sound reasoning if you ask me.

Another name that hasn't been mentioned here is Hibberd. Coming into his 4th season and 2nd full season, still has a fair bit of upside in my opinion.

2011 - 9 games @ 74
2012 - 13 games @ 74
2013 - 22 games @ 96

8 x 100s, 5 x 90s, 5 x 80s, 3 x 70s, 1 x 60s so pretty consistent and had 10 games where he had 7 or more marks which is very handy...and pretty surprising to be honest.
 

Nk29

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Guessing you didn't trade him just before the byes last year lol. Man that was the most experience ever. Never again list for me but I can see how teams will be tempted to start him.
Traded him just after his bye :(. Scored a 100 then went and got himself injured. Could only afford to replace him with Harbrow as well :/. Firmly in the never again camp with him.
 

Nk29

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A lot to like about this post actually and pretty damn sound reasoning if you ask me.

Another name that hasn't been mentioned here is Hibberd. Coming into his 4th season and 2nd full season, still has a fair bit of upside in my opinion.

2011 - 9 games @ 74
2012 - 13 games @ 74
2013 - 22 games @ 96

8 x 100s, 5 x 90s, 5 x 80s, 3 x 70s, 1 x 60s so pretty consistent and had 10 games where he had 7 or more marks which is very handy...and pretty surprising to be honest.
Good and consistent player who would make a good POD, but I won't start him (though he could be an upgrade target) as I want to see how he backs up last year.
 
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I really like the consistency of Dyson Heppell.
Depending on how his injury pans out and if he is still classified as MID/DEF, I might stick with him.
 

Fresh

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I really like the consistency of Dyson Heppell.
Depending on how his injury pans out and if he is still classified as MID/DEF, I might stick with him.
I think he'll be MID only next year which is a little frustrating. Would've liked him to keep his D/M status.
 
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I think he'll be MID only next year which is a little frustrating. Would've liked him to keep his D/M status.
Yeah just saw it on the rumours site, if he's only a MID then I won't be locking him in.
Will be interesting to see if we have the same backline carnage in 2014 as we did this year lolz!
 

av1jme

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Part of parcel of the fantasy game.
I ll definitely take a few risks this year and Birchall is in the frame for my defence.

Yeah just saw it on the rumours site, if he's only a MID then I won't be locking him in.
Will be interesting to see if we have the same backline carnage in 2014 as we did this year lolz!
 

MVP9

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Any love for Kade Simpson in the backline next year? He's averaged mid 90's in the last 5 seasons and rarely misses a game.
Absolutely, bit more spoilt for choice in the backs this upcoming season and he is a reason why, won't give you any headaches every couple of weeks too

Speaking of Birchall, is anyone picking him in their starting team?
Given suckling would be in everyone's team and other premiums no, but if his scoring doesn't get affected then he could be a trade in option later in the year
 

av1jme

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I had Watts penned down in my team if he is 360K ish. Worth a punt given that Roos is the coach. Not sure if I will play him in DEF though.

Oh I almost forgot about Mr. Watts!
Had him in my starting team and that was the "best" decision ever!
 
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