Discussion 2021: Detailed Pre-Season Player/Role Observations by Wogitalia & Others
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Crows vs Power
General - Done 3.5 quarters and have it on in the back ground as I'm writing this. Scary game for Adelaide, pathetic really the only word for their effort level, would have been right at home on Thursday basically. Port scintillating though but really a training drill for them.
Adelaide - As mentioned, absolute embarrassment for them. One thing to not have a lot of talent, which they obviously don't, but to be so utterly gutless and pathetic in effort is the real concern. Bad teams you really just want to see them try and you honestly can't say they showed that. Not even missing much, by my count you've got Talia, Lynch and Doedee are the only clear best 22 guys and none of them are really guys you expect to be starting the effort levels either. Really worrying. I guess the best case is it's happening now so maybe can be used to light some fire.
Laird - Eased off in the second half, especially the 4th but was everywhere. Tackle numbers the big takeaway probably, he was about the only one who really could be classified as trying. The team looks so bad it's actually hard to back him but his role was as expected and the way he scored last year still supports it. Definitely is a feeling that the rule changes are really benefiting defenders so might not be the kind of position change it normally is. Still, looks very good and did nothing wrong.
McPherson - Really solid game, locked himself into the best 22 if he wasn't already. A bit of a pain given he's not relevant but a few other guys could be.
Smith - Probably an under the radar benefactor of the rule changes that needs mentioning. Took a lot of the kick-ins and was really the only consistent run from behind for the Crows, supply looks like it will be very heavy for him so definitely could be his year. Gutsy pick though as imagine there aren't that many who haven't been torched at least once by him in the past.
Crouch - Solid game, nothing special. Limited preseason is an issue and will look for him as an upgrade target personally.
Sloane - Good role, played solid but they were destroyed through the middle so it's hard to really say too much positive. Looks fitter though which is nice. I've basically written him off as done for premium status but he could do well in that role. None of the kids have put their hand up to take his role and with Crouch leaving there's a lot more midfield minutes to be had.
Sholl - Incredibly underwhelming. Lack of run into space was his big issue. He's so classy and going to be a good one but needs a lot more workrate if he's going to star out on a wing. Pure wing role though. Too expensive for me.
O'Brien - Even his effort level was down. If you were looking for him to take on Grawndy, he's not given you any good ground to base it on with this effort. Looks fit.
Keays - HF and some midfield minutes. Similar to last year. I mean even his effort wasn't great so hoping maybe just a bug going through the team or something.
McHenry - Such a spud, I guess the positive is he found the ball for like the first time ever but I'm not sure he actually kicked it to a teammate at any point. One of those guys who if he was a rookie list player you'd be hoping for something and optimistic but as a top pick you just wonder what they even saw in him. At least he's not Chayce Jones bad though...
Rowe - Was really good. Very composed and hates to waste the ball, he's very short but still hits up on the lead, could have done more defensively like the rest of the team, the ball leaves the Crows F50 under zero pressure most of the time but Rowe was probably the most active of them. Going to be a tough fantasy role for him but JS looks top notch and reckon he can float around this mark most weeks and probably bob up with an 80 when he kicks a couple.
Walker - Still just looks out of shape, looks better than last year but he's one of those guys who really shows his fitness on the outside, anchored deep basically all game. Just screams of that player who knows he's getting a game on name basis and doesn't need to work. It's such a shame as he's such a good player and if he wasn't so lazy he could still tear it apart.
Butts - Was really solid, rolled an ankle and came back, cramped (I think) when Rozee took a sit on him but kept trying, I was happy with his efforts. Like Smith he's going to get a ton of supply down back. I thought he was better than Murray for the 2nd tall spot even when Talia is back, whenever that is. Expensive and probably a bench choice but the amount of supply and some good intercept signs mean he could be worth it.
Murray - According to Ralphy he'll sign after the game to the open list spot. He was good as well, Butts better for mine but could be both KP spots open to start the season and that could change. Would be a better result if he took it given prices.
Hamill - Looks to have bulked up a fair bit to me. He was solid the couple of times he got near it but just doesn't get near it nearly enough to interest me any more than passing glance level. Too many other guys in that price range have shown a lot more.
Berry - Came on and announced himself with a shocking level of intensity. Type of half of effort that should be rewarded as a sign to the other players who coasted for the whole game. Looked promising and would be shocked if he doesn't play this season at some point.
Jones - God he's terrible. Genuinely puzzling what his attribute was that got him drafted that high. He's small, weak, shocking disposal and can't get near the ball, doesn't even seem that fast.
Thilthorpe - Reminds me of Kreuzer in how he moves and looks. Didn't play a lot and didn't do much while out there. Not worth the premium to me even if picked round one.
General - Done 3.5 quarters and have it on in the back ground as I'm writing this. Scary game for Adelaide, pathetic really the only word for their effort level, would have been right at home on Thursday basically. Port scintillating though but really a training drill for them.
Adelaide - As mentioned, absolute embarrassment for them. One thing to not have a lot of talent, which they obviously don't, but to be so utterly gutless and pathetic in effort is the real concern. Bad teams you really just want to see them try and you honestly can't say they showed that. Not even missing much, by my count you've got Talia, Lynch and Doedee are the only clear best 22 guys and none of them are really guys you expect to be starting the effort levels either. Really worrying. I guess the best case is it's happening now so maybe can be used to light some fire.
Laird - Eased off in the second half, especially the 4th but was everywhere. Tackle numbers the big takeaway probably, he was about the only one who really could be classified as trying. The team looks so bad it's actually hard to back him but his role was as expected and the way he scored last year still supports it. Definitely is a feeling that the rule changes are really benefiting defenders so might not be the kind of position change it normally is. Still, looks very good and did nothing wrong.
McPherson - Really solid game, locked himself into the best 22 if he wasn't already. A bit of a pain given he's not relevant but a few other guys could be.
Smith - Probably an under the radar benefactor of the rule changes that needs mentioning. Took a lot of the kick-ins and was really the only consistent run from behind for the Crows, supply looks like it will be very heavy for him so definitely could be his year. Gutsy pick though as imagine there aren't that many who haven't been torched at least once by him in the past.
Crouch - Solid game, nothing special. Limited preseason is an issue and will look for him as an upgrade target personally.
Sloane - Good role, played solid but they were destroyed through the middle so it's hard to really say too much positive. Looks fitter though which is nice. I've basically written him off as done for premium status but he could do well in that role. None of the kids have put their hand up to take his role and with Crouch leaving there's a lot more midfield minutes to be had.
Sholl - Incredibly underwhelming. Lack of run into space was his big issue. He's so classy and going to be a good one but needs a lot more workrate if he's going to star out on a wing. Pure wing role though. Too expensive for me.
O'Brien - Even his effort level was down. If you were looking for him to take on Grawndy, he's not given you any good ground to base it on with this effort. Looks fit.
Keays - HF and some midfield minutes. Similar to last year. I mean even his effort wasn't great so hoping maybe just a bug going through the team or something.
McHenry - Such a spud, I guess the positive is he found the ball for like the first time ever but I'm not sure he actually kicked it to a teammate at any point. One of those guys who if he was a rookie list player you'd be hoping for something and optimistic but as a top pick you just wonder what they even saw in him. At least he's not Chayce Jones bad though...
Rowe - Was really good. Very composed and hates to waste the ball, he's very short but still hits up on the lead, could have done more defensively like the rest of the team, the ball leaves the Crows F50 under zero pressure most of the time but Rowe was probably the most active of them. Going to be a tough fantasy role for him but JS looks top notch and reckon he can float around this mark most weeks and probably bob up with an 80 when he kicks a couple.
Walker - Still just looks out of shape, looks better than last year but he's one of those guys who really shows his fitness on the outside, anchored deep basically all game. Just screams of that player who knows he's getting a game on name basis and doesn't need to work. It's such a shame as he's such a good player and if he wasn't so lazy he could still tear it apart.
Butts - Was really solid, rolled an ankle and came back, cramped (I think) when Rozee took a sit on him but kept trying, I was happy with his efforts. Like Smith he's going to get a ton of supply down back. I thought he was better than Murray for the 2nd tall spot even when Talia is back, whenever that is. Expensive and probably a bench choice but the amount of supply and some good intercept signs mean he could be worth it.
Murray - According to Ralphy he'll sign after the game to the open list spot. He was good as well, Butts better for mine but could be both KP spots open to start the season and that could change. Would be a better result if he took it given prices.
Hamill - Looks to have bulked up a fair bit to me. He was solid the couple of times he got near it but just doesn't get near it nearly enough to interest me any more than passing glance level. Too many other guys in that price range have shown a lot more.
Berry - Came on and announced himself with a shocking level of intensity. Type of half of effort that should be rewarded as a sign to the other players who coasted for the whole game. Looked promising and would be shocked if he doesn't play this season at some point.
Jones - God he's terrible. Genuinely puzzling what his attribute was that got him drafted that high. He's small, weak, shocking disposal and can't get near the ball, doesn't even seem that fast.
Thilthorpe - Reminds me of Kreuzer in how he moves and looks. Didn't play a lot and didn't do much while out there. Not worth the premium to me even if picked round one.
Port - Dominating effort, of course even witches hats can trip you up and put pressure more than the Crows did. So tough to read with the game over at quarter time (arguably it was over at the first bounce) but Port looked exceptional, ball movement on another level to anyone I've seen this weekend so far. Very strong side, Hartlett and McKenzie the two most important guys missing I believe.
Houston - Anyone brave? He's in the Smith basket, description I should just copy and paste minus the supply comment...
Bonner - He was everywhere, seemed to start wing, then go HF then settle off HB, found the ball in all of them and used it well. Not getting me again!
Wines - Not what I wanted as someone considering him, now I'm genuinely tempted! Looked considerably better on the spread, admittedly Crows, and just looks in ripping shape, clearly a bit more trim, even used it well and hit the scoreboard. So tempted... I know, it's almost certainly a mistake but I love those
Butters - Solid high HF role and covered some serious ground. Haven't really considered him and he's not going to play without a man (seemed that way) ever again I'd have thought but he was just terrific, ball use was absurd and he just kept finding openings to get the ball. Anyone considering him should lock him in, you can't ask more than that. Anyone not considering him should.
Amon - Really strong role, mostly centre and then wing. Looks set for a pretty big year. Shame he's a mid.
Gray - Was beastly, again, pretty easy job but did it with aplomb. Not on my radar but looks good for a low 90s average again most likely.
Aliir - It's amazing how good players look when you play them in their natural role and just let them do their thing instead of trying to turn them into ruckmen (bloody Horse...). Makes the backline even more dynamic and adds a real aerial presence they've lacked to a certain degree.
DBJ - Rock solid, epecting more of the same from him, doesn't get enough easy touches still to push to the next level but he's a good one who easily could push premium numbers.
Drew - Strong inside mid role. Reckon he benefited from Boak and Rockliff splitting a half each but he looked really good. Too expensive for me with a lack of JS at his price but he's a really solid player. Some team should be targeting him this year if he doesn't play a lot of games.
Duursma - Looks good, pure wing role. Tough to hit the numbers he'd need but reckon he continues to progress and at some point he's got the capability to push towards those Whitfield/Gaff type numbers, really rate him.
Burton - Was disgustingly solid as someone who is very much in the way of two strong rookies otherwise.
Bergman - Was terrific. Hartlett is going to be back and put pressure but he played the whole game and outside a couple of wonky kicks he made no mistakes and was very good defensively. Clearly a very strong kick of the ball as well which is always a good thing. He's definitely in the mix and definitely should be picked if he's there alongside Hartlett for round 1 and quite possibly even if Hartlett isn't there.
Rozee - Don't like the foot stuff but it sure didn't look like anything on field, still talking after the game about surgery, don't think you can pick him with that looming but he played really well. Reckon he's roughly where Butters was last year but Butters looks better.
Farrell - Abundance of riches here, played wing, looked great, pushed forward, still looked good. Reckon he's another probably hurting the chances of Bergman/Jones types.
Fantasia - What a quarter and a half he played. Seemed to be on the end of everything in the first quarter and a bit. Think he was just rested from there but will keep an ear out. Definitely frees Butters up to roam higher which is a positive.
Lycett - Nothing of note, was probably the better of the rucks today though.
Rockliff - Came on after half time and just pigged like only he can, ratio seems like a symptom of game over time more than anything.
Jones - Built like the proverbial brick outhouse and kicks like a mule. He'll definitely play senior football this year and he looks a stud. Reckon Bergman is ahead of him right now though and Hartlett and possibly McKenzie also in the way but he's impressive. Filthiest of haircuts though.
Boak - Played a half, if that, and was really good.
Mead - Also played a half, played as a small forward and did some nice things. Not likely to get a game early on given their depth but good to see he's there if some injuries were to create openings.
Dixon - Technically a premium last year I guess, looks angry and fit, played decently. I don't love KPF, especially stay at home ones, so not on my radar but if they dominate like that and move the ball that well, he could easily pass 100. He'd have been there last year if he could kick at goal.
Houston - Anyone brave? He's in the Smith basket, description I should just copy and paste minus the supply comment...
Bonner - He was everywhere, seemed to start wing, then go HF then settle off HB, found the ball in all of them and used it well. Not getting me again!
Wines - Not what I wanted as someone considering him, now I'm genuinely tempted! Looked considerably better on the spread, admittedly Crows, and just looks in ripping shape, clearly a bit more trim, even used it well and hit the scoreboard. So tempted... I know, it's almost certainly a mistake but I love those
Butters - Solid high HF role and covered some serious ground. Haven't really considered him and he's not going to play without a man (seemed that way) ever again I'd have thought but he was just terrific, ball use was absurd and he just kept finding openings to get the ball. Anyone considering him should lock him in, you can't ask more than that. Anyone not considering him should.
Amon - Really strong role, mostly centre and then wing. Looks set for a pretty big year. Shame he's a mid.
Gray - Was beastly, again, pretty easy job but did it with aplomb. Not on my radar but looks good for a low 90s average again most likely.
Aliir - It's amazing how good players look when you play them in their natural role and just let them do their thing instead of trying to turn them into ruckmen (bloody Horse...). Makes the backline even more dynamic and adds a real aerial presence they've lacked to a certain degree.
DBJ - Rock solid, epecting more of the same from him, doesn't get enough easy touches still to push to the next level but he's a good one who easily could push premium numbers.
Drew - Strong inside mid role. Reckon he benefited from Boak and Rockliff splitting a half each but he looked really good. Too expensive for me with a lack of JS at his price but he's a really solid player. Some team should be targeting him this year if he doesn't play a lot of games.
Duursma - Looks good, pure wing role. Tough to hit the numbers he'd need but reckon he continues to progress and at some point he's got the capability to push towards those Whitfield/Gaff type numbers, really rate him.
Burton - Was disgustingly solid as someone who is very much in the way of two strong rookies otherwise.
Bergman - Was terrific. Hartlett is going to be back and put pressure but he played the whole game and outside a couple of wonky kicks he made no mistakes and was very good defensively. Clearly a very strong kick of the ball as well which is always a good thing. He's definitely in the mix and definitely should be picked if he's there alongside Hartlett for round 1 and quite possibly even if Hartlett isn't there.
Rozee - Don't like the foot stuff but it sure didn't look like anything on field, still talking after the game about surgery, don't think you can pick him with that looming but he played really well. Reckon he's roughly where Butters was last year but Butters looks better.
Farrell - Abundance of riches here, played wing, looked great, pushed forward, still looked good. Reckon he's another probably hurting the chances of Bergman/Jones types.
Fantasia - What a quarter and a half he played. Seemed to be on the end of everything in the first quarter and a bit. Think he was just rested from there but will keep an ear out. Definitely frees Butters up to roam higher which is a positive.
Lycett - Nothing of note, was probably the better of the rucks today though.
Rockliff - Came on after half time and just pigged like only he can, ratio seems like a symptom of game over time more than anything.
Jones - Built like the proverbial brick outhouse and kicks like a mule. He'll definitely play senior football this year and he looks a stud. Reckon Bergman is ahead of him right now though and Hartlett and possibly McKenzie also in the way but he's impressive. Filthiest of haircuts though.
Boak - Played a half, if that, and was really good.
Mead - Also played a half, played as a small forward and did some nice things. Not likely to get a game early on given their depth but good to see he's there if some injuries were to create openings.
Dixon - Technically a premium last year I guess, looks angry and fit, played decently. I don't love KPF, especially stay at home ones, so not on my radar but if they dominate like that and move the ball that well, he could easily pass 100. He'd have been there last year if he could kick at goal.
Re Chance Jones, didn’t watch the game but I reckon they drafted him for his leg speed, I seem to recall him being quite quick in his first year and we did need some outside speed. Always looks a bit puzzled as to what to do with it when he’s got the ball though and doesn’t seem to be the best decision maker. Not sure what's gone wrong with his development, but given this is still only his third year there’s still plenty of time for him to get it right.
Next level type of stuff @wogitalia
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A brutal and realistic assessment of our disaster of a list - drafting has been a monumental failure in recent times.
Butts is our best KPD besides Talia, he'll play. McAsey been horrible this preseason. Butts can take intercepts and chip it around.
McPherson is our Laird now basically, I have him in Fantasy but too many good options in SC.
Coach said Berry/Pedlar still need to be integrated into the game plan, but I'm 100% sure he'll play this year. Shoenberg has gone backwards, Berry should be playing over him R1 but I'm not sure it happens.
Murray probably loses his spot once Talia comes back, Talia is tracking for early rounds. Doubt he scores much.
Laird probably falls down the pecking order in def because everyone else is going beserk but he's never not brought pressure to the game and expect him to go anywhere between low 100s - low 110s.
Butts is our best KPD besides Talia, he'll play. McAsey been horrible this preseason. Butts can take intercepts and chip it around.
McPherson is our Laird now basically, I have him in Fantasy but too many good options in SC.
Coach said Berry/Pedlar still need to be integrated into the game plan, but I'm 100% sure he'll play this year. Shoenberg has gone backwards, Berry should be playing over him R1 but I'm not sure it happens.
Murray probably loses his spot once Talia comes back, Talia is tracking for early rounds. Doubt he scores much.
Laird probably falls down the pecking order in def because everyone else is going beserk but he's never not brought pressure to the game and expect him to go anywhere between low 100s - low 110s.
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Save yourselves the pain if anyone is considering him, I've been burned too many times. Year or two ago he was on like 70 DT and 5 SC so obviously not rated by CD either so a pretty brutal pick to own.
Didn't mind Sholl but the standard was pretty low that game, seems pretty clean with gathering the ball and nice with ball in hand (outside of the one poor kick I saw).
Sad thing is that was one of the better games I've seen from him as he actually got the ball a few times at least. Had the right idea with a few kicks into the center, shame the execution didn't follow though...
Yeah hard to know where he sits in this side with a few defender options out. Talia in sees Butts as the second tall, but not sure whether he then covers for Doedee or also a chance for Kelly's (lack of adding much) role?
Big time shocker, what a terrible draft for us. To think we could have had Caldwell instead, or any number of options that would have looked heaps better.
Will say I did like the look of Alir Alir up forward for us...
Didn't mind Sholl but the standard was pretty low that game, seems pretty clean with gathering the ball and nice with ball in hand (outside of the one poor kick I saw).
Sad thing is that was one of the better games I've seen from him as he actually got the ball a few times at least. Had the right idea with a few kicks into the center, shame the execution didn't follow though...
Yeah hard to know where he sits in this side with a few defender options out. Talia in sees Butts as the second tall, but not sure whether he then covers for Doedee or also a chance for Kelly's (lack of adding much) role?
Big time shocker, what a terrible draft for us. To think we could have had Caldwell instead, or any number of options that would have looked heaps better.
Will say I did like the look of Alir Alir up forward for us...
West Coast vs Freo
General - What a train wreck for the two teams, just injuries everywhere. Was a pretty good game as well, both teams were quite clearly moving to the 45 on the mark to cut off the corridor, first time both teams have made a big effort to do it, didn't really impact the game and it was still very open with both teams having a fair desire to keep control of the ball and move deliberately. Was very much a preseason game for the umpires, they had an absolute mare of a game. A couple were probably the horrific "dangerous tackle" BS but the couple they called were just hard tackles and were bad calls, the Sheppard call on Banfield was a howler of a call, not just got it completely wrong but gave a free kick to Sheppard on top. There were another half dozen stinkers as well.
WCE - Would be happy, defense was solid, Dockers really struggled to score for the most part. Given an almost 2nd string midfield they were very competitive, still seem overly reliant on NicNat domination though in the middle. Kelly and Yeo the obvious names missing to me, other names more fringe.
Gaff - Same old. Covered a fair bit of ground and just works up and down the wing. Will be there abouts as always.
Sheed - Extra midfield minutes for me but he's always good when he gets them. He's a real under the radar fantasy player, he didn't seem nearly as prolific as he obviously was.
Hurn - Solid, took the majority of the kick-ins. Reckon he continues his slow decline though most likely.
Nelson - He scored a lot better than I thought, lot of empty touches in it.
Barrass - Was dominant, yes it's only Taberner, but just treated him with utter disrespect and basically just marked it in his face all game to rub it in. He looks set for a big year.
Duggan - Really solid role, bit of inside work but mostly on the wing where there is a genuine spot and similar to where he finished last year, and right on the average to boot. I still like him to progress but I'm not sure he's got 100+ in his range so probably going to fall short given what the back scoring has looked like through the preseason. Still, if you liked him before he did nothing wrong and really should confirm what you picked him for.
Witherden - Thought he was really solid with the ball, was watching after last weeks reviews but he was very clean. Got beaten a couple of times defensively but if he kicks like that he's best 22. Not sure there is enough pill to go around though so not really in my sights still.
O'Neill - Was pretty solid, another benefactor for me probably to the fringe of the 22 as a best case. Not worth the premium for me but worth at least watching if chaos were to happen.
Darling - Looked good, sneaky premium option for those he hasn't burned, with all the injuries to the top line forwards that 95 mark is really looking in play right now. Not for me but I don't like KP guys.
Shuey - Looking great, inconspicuous ankle injury just as a reminder that he is so injury prone but he really was looking great.
Allen - Played forward and back, didn't notice him rucking. No idea where he sits but god he's a talent. Be very surprised if he's not one of the best KPF in the league in a few years.
Ryan - NicNat mentioned at quarter time (I think) that he hates the preseason and god does it show. He looks in horrific shape, his mantits are bouncing as he walks into to kick goals, he was cramping a quarter before anyone else and yet he's just a phenomenal footballer and was so dynamic, just about best afield. Last year he took 10 weeks to play himself into shape and he'll probably do the same this year, would love him to rock up to round 1 in finals shape just to see how much he could tear the league apart. Nearly took mark of the year to boot.
Jones - He was solid, couple of selfish plays but outside that was just good. Was hoping to see a bit more and as the last of the small forwards he's probably going to score in this range which makes his premium a hard price but looked good.
Petrucelle - Still a very low possession player. Also not worth the premium but good to see him out there.
Trew - Solid quarter by him, found plenty of it. Not sure where he fits in but long term reckon he's got something.
NicNat - Played a half, was thrashed by Meek in the first quarter and then absolutely dominated the 2nd and start of the 3rd before calling it a day. Same old, fitness is clearly always going to be an issue as he isn't willing/able to put the work in over the o***eason but he's just so good in his bursts.
Winder - Came on roughly when Langdon went off, did a couple of nice things but not enough to demand a spot and not enough of the kind of things you'd want I imagine for what his likely role is.
Langdon - Knocked himself out on one of the weirdest attacks on the ball I've ever seen, I watched a half dozen replays and I still don't even know what he was trying to do. He'd done a couple of nice things prior to that but has to be in doubt for round one now.
General - What a train wreck for the two teams, just injuries everywhere. Was a pretty good game as well, both teams were quite clearly moving to the 45 on the mark to cut off the corridor, first time both teams have made a big effort to do it, didn't really impact the game and it was still very open with both teams having a fair desire to keep control of the ball and move deliberately. Was very much a preseason game for the umpires, they had an absolute mare of a game. A couple were probably the horrific "dangerous tackle" BS but the couple they called were just hard tackles and were bad calls, the Sheppard call on Banfield was a howler of a call, not just got it completely wrong but gave a free kick to Sheppard on top. There were another half dozen stinkers as well.
WCE - Would be happy, defense was solid, Dockers really struggled to score for the most part. Given an almost 2nd string midfield they were very competitive, still seem overly reliant on NicNat domination though in the middle. Kelly and Yeo the obvious names missing to me, other names more fringe.
Gaff - Same old. Covered a fair bit of ground and just works up and down the wing. Will be there abouts as always.
Sheed - Extra midfield minutes for me but he's always good when he gets them. He's a real under the radar fantasy player, he didn't seem nearly as prolific as he obviously was.
Hurn - Solid, took the majority of the kick-ins. Reckon he continues his slow decline though most likely.
Nelson - He scored a lot better than I thought, lot of empty touches in it.
Barrass - Was dominant, yes it's only Taberner, but just treated him with utter disrespect and basically just marked it in his face all game to rub it in. He looks set for a big year.
Duggan - Really solid role, bit of inside work but mostly on the wing where there is a genuine spot and similar to where he finished last year, and right on the average to boot. I still like him to progress but I'm not sure he's got 100+ in his range so probably going to fall short given what the back scoring has looked like through the preseason. Still, if you liked him before he did nothing wrong and really should confirm what you picked him for.
Witherden - Thought he was really solid with the ball, was watching after last weeks reviews but he was very clean. Got beaten a couple of times defensively but if he kicks like that he's best 22. Not sure there is enough pill to go around though so not really in my sights still.
O'Neill - Was pretty solid, another benefactor for me probably to the fringe of the 22 as a best case. Not worth the premium for me but worth at least watching if chaos were to happen.
Darling - Looked good, sneaky premium option for those he hasn't burned, with all the injuries to the top line forwards that 95 mark is really looking in play right now. Not for me but I don't like KP guys.
Shuey - Looking great, inconspicuous ankle injury just as a reminder that he is so injury prone but he really was looking great.
Allen - Played forward and back, didn't notice him rucking. No idea where he sits but god he's a talent. Be very surprised if he's not one of the best KPF in the league in a few years.
Ryan - NicNat mentioned at quarter time (I think) that he hates the preseason and god does it show. He looks in horrific shape, his mantits are bouncing as he walks into to kick goals, he was cramping a quarter before anyone else and yet he's just a phenomenal footballer and was so dynamic, just about best afield. Last year he took 10 weeks to play himself into shape and he'll probably do the same this year, would love him to rock up to round 1 in finals shape just to see how much he could tear the league apart. Nearly took mark of the year to boot.
Jones - He was solid, couple of selfish plays but outside that was just good. Was hoping to see a bit more and as the last of the small forwards he's probably going to score in this range which makes his premium a hard price but looked good.
Petrucelle - Still a very low possession player. Also not worth the premium but good to see him out there.
Trew - Solid quarter by him, found plenty of it. Not sure where he fits in but long term reckon he's got something.
NicNat - Played a half, was thrashed by Meek in the first quarter and then absolutely dominated the 2nd and start of the 3rd before calling it a day. Same old, fitness is clearly always going to be an issue as he isn't willing/able to put the work in over the o***eason but he's just so good in his bursts.
Winder - Came on roughly when Langdon went off, did a couple of nice things but not enough to demand a spot and not enough of the kind of things you'd want I imagine for what his likely role is.
Langdon - Knocked himself out on one of the weirdest attacks on the ball I've ever seen, I watched a half dozen replays and I still don't even know what he was trying to do. He'd done a couple of nice things prior to that but has to be in doubt for round one now.
Freo - Copped the majority of the injuries but battled on manfully. Not sure what they were doing in the 3rd, looked like they were trying to replicate the Eagles which just doesn't suit them given they have no KPF targets but whatever it's preseason. Intent was good and injuries aside I think they'd be happy. Defense in particular looked good.
Hughes - He was everywhere and played great. I think this is more of a blip than a trend but it's terrible for Chapman's chances!
Frederick - Shocked to see him get that much ball, just kept finding space, kind of felt like the Eagles were happy for him to be the guy kicking inside 50 as there's very rarely any thought that goes into it. When he learns to settle and play at less than 100mph he's going to be pretty good though.
Brayshaw - Strong outing, role perfect. Anyone who liked him will have considered this a tick and anyone who didn't will have considered it a cross. Textbook example of a game that doesn't move the needle or narrative on him at all. Slightly higher TOG than he normally does even in a preseason is probably the best sign of the game.
Fyfe - He looked in ripping nick and then we all got a timely reminder as he went off to get an ankle/calf checked out, came back and wasn't quite as good from that point on while still being good. Spent the last quarter playing FF and most of the 3rd off the ground from what I could tell so his score is even better. If you could trust his body he'd be as easy a pick as there is, even then he looked great. I didn't notice him forward much at all until it was full time forward when they were down a rotation or two as well so might be more that. I'd had him in my last draft and while he gave me a reminder I saw enough to leave him in.
Acres - Half back/wing role, solid but without forward this year, that's all I have to say.
Aish - Ditto but he just doesn't get enough of it to go much further.
Cox - Dominant, basically looked like fit prime McGovern out there. Before this game he was the one who made the most sense to go forward but he was their best defender and he was good last year as well so that's not as sure a thing. Another negative for Chapman.
Mundy - Same old.
Young - Took the majority of kick-ins and played really well, was surprised how "bad" his score was actually but I guess zero marks will do that. He had a solid role but I have no idea what happens when Ryan is back, obviously he changes the whole backline around but like a lot of others, people who liked him before would have gotten exactly what they wanted here, definitely some potential fool's gold with Ryan out but can't do more than is in front of you and he will clearly be a preferred kicker.
Meek - Excellent game, another I was surprised how badly he scored as he was excellent and with 0 clangers it makes even less sense, all I can think is the hitouts that didn't go to advantage (I'd have guessed 5) must have all gone down as sharked as his score just makes no sense otherwise. Follow up work was exceptional, especially given the opponent, and his first quarter in particular was legitimately great, like Grundy would have been happy with it level. He's a very good kick, moves very well and follows up well, matching NicNat early in the centre was actually amazing as well. I don't know how JL could take himself seriously as a coach with expectations if he plays a fat Darcy with a month off who has maybe had one game in his career as good as this one over Meek who is in stark contrast to Darcy by being in legitimately good shape. I fully expect him to make the wrong choice and rush Darcy back for some absurd reason but Meek should be their R1 until Darcy gets in shape and dominates the magoos.
Pearce - Was really solid, ankle scare though which given his history is a worry. Looked good though otherwise and should make them a better side. You forget just how fast he is until he runs down a Petrucelle and then takes the ball from him.
Henry - Probably too expensive but a spot or two opened up and he played very well after he finally came on and with Banfield, Crowden and Walters all injured there has to be a chance, though I'd expect those first two are probably right by round 1. Better options right now unless they don't pop up for some reason.
Taberner - He's got to be the most frustrating player, even as a neutral fan he frustrates me so I can't imagine how Docker's fans feel. He probably should have kicked 6 today but he constantly drops every easy mark and doesn't even have a chance on the slightly harder marks, then when he finally does mark it he completely messes up the kick and if he does none of that he'll give away silly free kicks. There's a legitimately good player in there if he'd just get out of his own way.
Treacy - He felt like he played better than his score. The Lobb injury very much opens the door for him though and he makes sense in that role. He moves really well and is very physical, he's not going to mark like Lobb but he also will give a lot more contest at ground level, actually bang in the ruck and throw his weight around so it could be a blessing in disguise if he gets a chance and takes it, Lobb's softness has been a big issue for them for a while now.
Chapman - Did some nice things but basically everyone ahead of him had a very good game and there's Ryan to come back also. He might play but I'd be very surprised if it was in the first few rounds.
Lobb - Hurt his knee, I've done my share of knee injuries and grabbing the back of it like that is never a good sign. Fingers crossed for him and the talk after the game is they don't think it's serious so hopefully that's a great sign. Still, opens a door you'd think for Treacy or Meek. Could also be a negative for Fyfe if he gets stuck forward more though so need to watch what they do in response.
Walters - Saving everyone who was thinking of picking him from the mistake before round 1 is very considerate. Perhaps another reminder for the Fyfe crew (checking in!) that super injury prone players don't seem to change. His role was terrible before the injury, pretty much full time forward, so I don't think anyone was taking him anyway. Looked on the minor end of hamstrings but probably costs him round 1 with his history.
Hughes - He was everywhere and played great. I think this is more of a blip than a trend but it's terrible for Chapman's chances!
Frederick - Shocked to see him get that much ball, just kept finding space, kind of felt like the Eagles were happy for him to be the guy kicking inside 50 as there's very rarely any thought that goes into it. When he learns to settle and play at less than 100mph he's going to be pretty good though.
Brayshaw - Strong outing, role perfect. Anyone who liked him will have considered this a tick and anyone who didn't will have considered it a cross. Textbook example of a game that doesn't move the needle or narrative on him at all. Slightly higher TOG than he normally does even in a preseason is probably the best sign of the game.
Fyfe - He looked in ripping nick and then we all got a timely reminder as he went off to get an ankle/calf checked out, came back and wasn't quite as good from that point on while still being good. Spent the last quarter playing FF and most of the 3rd off the ground from what I could tell so his score is even better. If you could trust his body he'd be as easy a pick as there is, even then he looked great. I didn't notice him forward much at all until it was full time forward when they were down a rotation or two as well so might be more that. I'd had him in my last draft and while he gave me a reminder I saw enough to leave him in.
Acres - Half back/wing role, solid but without forward this year, that's all I have to say.
Aish - Ditto but he just doesn't get enough of it to go much further.
Cox - Dominant, basically looked like fit prime McGovern out there. Before this game he was the one who made the most sense to go forward but he was their best defender and he was good last year as well so that's not as sure a thing. Another negative for Chapman.
Mundy - Same old.
Young - Took the majority of kick-ins and played really well, was surprised how "bad" his score was actually but I guess zero marks will do that. He had a solid role but I have no idea what happens when Ryan is back, obviously he changes the whole backline around but like a lot of others, people who liked him before would have gotten exactly what they wanted here, definitely some potential fool's gold with Ryan out but can't do more than is in front of you and he will clearly be a preferred kicker.
Meek - Excellent game, another I was surprised how badly he scored as he was excellent and with 0 clangers it makes even less sense, all I can think is the hitouts that didn't go to advantage (I'd have guessed 5) must have all gone down as sharked as his score just makes no sense otherwise. Follow up work was exceptional, especially given the opponent, and his first quarter in particular was legitimately great, like Grundy would have been happy with it level. He's a very good kick, moves very well and follows up well, matching NicNat early in the centre was actually amazing as well. I don't know how JL could take himself seriously as a coach with expectations if he plays a fat Darcy with a month off who has maybe had one game in his career as good as this one over Meek who is in stark contrast to Darcy by being in legitimately good shape. I fully expect him to make the wrong choice and rush Darcy back for some absurd reason but Meek should be their R1 until Darcy gets in shape and dominates the magoos.
Pearce - Was really solid, ankle scare though which given his history is a worry. Looked good though otherwise and should make them a better side. You forget just how fast he is until he runs down a Petrucelle and then takes the ball from him.
Henry - Probably too expensive but a spot or two opened up and he played very well after he finally came on and with Banfield, Crowden and Walters all injured there has to be a chance, though I'd expect those first two are probably right by round 1. Better options right now unless they don't pop up for some reason.
Taberner - He's got to be the most frustrating player, even as a neutral fan he frustrates me so I can't imagine how Docker's fans feel. He probably should have kicked 6 today but he constantly drops every easy mark and doesn't even have a chance on the slightly harder marks, then when he finally does mark it he completely messes up the kick and if he does none of that he'll give away silly free kicks. There's a legitimately good player in there if he'd just get out of his own way.
Treacy - He felt like he played better than his score. The Lobb injury very much opens the door for him though and he makes sense in that role. He moves really well and is very physical, he's not going to mark like Lobb but he also will give a lot more contest at ground level, actually bang in the ruck and throw his weight around so it could be a blessing in disguise if he gets a chance and takes it, Lobb's softness has been a big issue for them for a while now.
Chapman - Did some nice things but basically everyone ahead of him had a very good game and there's Ryan to come back also. He might play but I'd be very surprised if it was in the first few rounds.
Lobb - Hurt his knee, I've done my share of knee injuries and grabbing the back of it like that is never a good sign. Fingers crossed for him and the talk after the game is they don't think it's serious so hopefully that's a great sign. Still, opens a door you'd think for Treacy or Meek. Could also be a negative for Fyfe if he gets stuck forward more though so need to watch what they do in response.
Walters - Saving everyone who was thinking of picking him from the mistake before round 1 is very considerate. Perhaps another reminder for the Fyfe crew (checking in!) that super injury prone players don't seem to change. His role was terrible before the injury, pretty much full time forward, so I don't think anyone was taking him anyway. Looked on the minor end of hamstrings but probably costs him round 1 with his history.
Few thoughts on Eagles vs Freo, hopefully wogitalia doesnt mind me posting them here
Duggan - Has been in my side of a while, and basically locked himself in. Although TK ( and Yeo) not playing, looked really good playing a mix of wing and inside. You can see why Simpson is keen to get him in the midfield mix, not afraid to run with the ball, thinks defensively at contests and always provides an option for the kick inside the corrior, all traits that I think the eagles midfield currently lack overall.
Redden - Draft option only, but thought his work in close was really good. Have my draft Friday, keen to take him late.
Witherden - Feel like he might take a bit of time to slot into their system, but took some kickouts and went at 93% DE, which is outstanding considering all but one of his 16 disposals were kicks. Feel like he'll probably fall short of premium numbers but one to monitor, especially if Hurn goes down with old man injuries.
Trew - Subbed in late in the 3rd (26% TOG). 9 touches and 3 tackles is quite impressive in that short time. Played mid and did a few nice things in close. Supposedly has been impressive at training this preseason, so was quite keen to see him for the first time.
Gaff - Standard gaff, 31 touches, 0 tackles and 85 SC. Would be incredibly frustrating to own in both draft or standard, as needs huge numbers to reach premium level, and I dont think the eagles game plan supports premium midfield SC scoring at all.
Fyfe- Wow. Played a mix of mid and forward, and looked in incredible nick. Copped a knock early but played out the game fine. If I hadnt locked in Josh Kelly months ago, I'd probably have him.
Darling - Thought he played very well and this year once more provides a nice option in draft. Durable and over the course of the year is safe for 80-85.
Young - Unsure what to make of his game. Got kickouts (albeit no Ryan) and had a nice ratio. 23 touches with 0 marks is certainly one of the strangest games I've ever seen. Bit worried he goes back to a 15-18ish touch guy when Ryan returns. Pass for me but I dont think I can fault the pick, locked in best 22 for sure and I could see him averaging low 80s.
Meek - Impressed me, offered alot more than just hitouts. Had a few clearances and moved well around the ground. Surely Darcy off no preseason can't just walk back in the side like people are saying... Deserves to play Rd 1, and I'd be quite tempted to take him R3. Baptism of fire Rd 1 vs Max is quite daunting though.
Cox - Same SC friendly backline role as last season, with a very nice ratio continuing. May regress when Ryan returns slightly. Really enjoy watching him play, think he can go 80-85 and be a nice late draft option.
Brayshaw - 78% TOG a concern I feel thats nothing has changed from the past, especially with no Serong/Cerra, if you were considering picking him you'd want to see him really stand out in a game like that. Can see him going in that 98-103 sort of range, think he's probably capped by the TOG. Much prefer McCluggage at that price, who's currently in my side at M4.
Duggan - Has been in my side of a while, and basically locked himself in. Although TK ( and Yeo) not playing, looked really good playing a mix of wing and inside. You can see why Simpson is keen to get him in the midfield mix, not afraid to run with the ball, thinks defensively at contests and always provides an option for the kick inside the corrior, all traits that I think the eagles midfield currently lack overall.
Redden - Draft option only, but thought his work in close was really good. Have my draft Friday, keen to take him late.
Witherden - Feel like he might take a bit of time to slot into their system, but took some kickouts and went at 93% DE, which is outstanding considering all but one of his 16 disposals were kicks. Feel like he'll probably fall short of premium numbers but one to monitor, especially if Hurn goes down with old man injuries.
Trew - Subbed in late in the 3rd (26% TOG). 9 touches and 3 tackles is quite impressive in that short time. Played mid and did a few nice things in close. Supposedly has been impressive at training this preseason, so was quite keen to see him for the first time.
Gaff - Standard gaff, 31 touches, 0 tackles and 85 SC. Would be incredibly frustrating to own in both draft or standard, as needs huge numbers to reach premium level, and I dont think the eagles game plan supports premium midfield SC scoring at all.
Fyfe- Wow. Played a mix of mid and forward, and looked in incredible nick. Copped a knock early but played out the game fine. If I hadnt locked in Josh Kelly months ago, I'd probably have him.
Darling - Thought he played very well and this year once more provides a nice option in draft. Durable and over the course of the year is safe for 80-85.
Young - Unsure what to make of his game. Got kickouts (albeit no Ryan) and had a nice ratio. 23 touches with 0 marks is certainly one of the strangest games I've ever seen. Bit worried he goes back to a 15-18ish touch guy when Ryan returns. Pass for me but I dont think I can fault the pick, locked in best 22 for sure and I could see him averaging low 80s.
Meek - Impressed me, offered alot more than just hitouts. Had a few clearances and moved well around the ground. Surely Darcy off no preseason can't just walk back in the side like people are saying... Deserves to play Rd 1, and I'd be quite tempted to take him R3. Baptism of fire Rd 1 vs Max is quite daunting though.
Cox - Same SC friendly backline role as last season, with a very nice ratio continuing. May regress when Ryan returns slightly. Really enjoy watching him play, think he can go 80-85 and be a nice late draft option.
Brayshaw - 78% TOG a concern I feel thats nothing has changed from the past, especially with no Serong/Cerra, if you were considering picking him you'd want to see him really stand out in a game like that. Can see him going in that 98-103 sort of range, think he's probably capped by the TOG. Much prefer McCluggage at that price, who's currently in my side at M4.
@wogitalia
How good was Adam Papalia’s call
Would be my one of my favourite fox footy commentators, just calls the game without the unnecessary crap most of the others do.
How good was Adam Papalia’s call
Would be my one of my favourite fox footy commentators, just calls the game without the unnecessary crap most of the others do.
@wogitalia
How good was Adam Papalia’s call
Would be my one of my favourite fox footy commentators, just calls the game without the unnecessary crap most of the others do.
How good was Adam Papalia’s call
Would be my one of my favourite fox footy commentators, just calls the game without the unnecessary crap most of the others do.
@wogitalia
How good was Adam Papalia’s call
Would be my one of my favourite fox footy commentators, just calls the game without the unnecessary crap most of the others do.
How good was Adam Papalia’s call
Would be my one of my favourite fox footy commentators, just calls the game without the unnecessary crap most of the others do.
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Was really impressed with the kid, great size about him, good clean hands, a couple of really nice long kicks into the F50 that with time he'll be able to put to our players advantage. Bit of Jordan Lewis about him too... won't take any crap from the opposition... Didn't look out of place at all.
He won't play round 1... but he'll get games this year I reckon as he brings a lot of things to the table our midfield lacks.
He won't play round 1... but he'll get games this year I reckon as he brings a lot of things to the table our midfield lacks.
Dogs vs Demons
General - Pretty solid game, Demons pretty undermanned and it showed but they gave a fight and the Dogs went hard. Rules again didn't seem overly noticeable other than the long kick-ins from the Demons which worked for about a quarter. Watched 3/4 because it was just getting ugly at that point and I'd seen enough.
Dogs - Most important takeaway is that they took this hitout very seriously, only used extra players for injuries, players seemed to be in clear roles that I think we see in the regular season, reckon this was the best indicator of the real stuff of any teams game I've seen by a fair margin. Missing Treloar, maybe JJ (played reserves) and Wood from the best 22 for mine. Treloar clearly the main one there as we have no idea what he's going to change.
Macrae - Standard game for him. Just everywhere, looks like he kicked on in the last. Looks great, has to be the pick of the 120+ guys for mine because there definitely is a bit of an outside shift to the games for mine.
Bont - Beastly, kicked 3 sweet goals, all while playing midfield just to reinforce how much more scoreboard impact he has from there compared to forward. Looks very good and the role was top notch, Treloar not going to impact him, imo.
Dunkley - This one really snuck up on me, when they showed Bont's 150 in the third he was second on 100+ and I honestly hadn't noticed him. I guess 8 clearances and 20CP will hardcore spike and the 11 tackles kind of go under the radar also. Role was good, probably played the most forward of the group but still got plenty of minutes. Definitely will raise eyebrows with the score and putting his hand right up.
Liberatore - Would have played the 2nd most forward of the midfield group, felt like probably a 60/40 split mid with Dunkley, with both filling in for Bont/Macrae when they weren't there. Wouldn't think there were too many other Dogs who got a CBA (I noticed Hunter once). Looks really good.
Daniel - New roles are pretty huge for him, about the only time he ever missed kicks previously is when he had to go over the man on the mark which he never has to do now. Prolific, looked like ANB put some time into him in the 2nd but he worked through it and just kept going. Took every kick-in that I saw. Already had him in my team, big tick.
Lipinski - Playing a pure wing role and did great in it. Not on my radar but strong game. Some team should be in his ear though.
English - Felt like a 40/60 R/F split to me, with much more forward as the game was over. Looked solid but don't like him in that role.
Smith - Played the other wing basically the entire game, there were only a couple of times all game I noticed that it wasn't Smith and Lipinski on the wings. I think that those two being out there is a great result for Dunkley as both could steal midfield minutes off him.
Hunter - Played a high HF role pretty much all game, I can't say I saw him on the wing for a CBA at all but I wasn't looking intently until I noticed he kept being at HF and watched for it. That doesn't impact the other mids to me but an interest change, showed some craft up there and still roamed, probably a good use of him. Not a good fantasy outcome though.
Williams - Imagine he did bulk of his scoring in the 2nd half as didn't notice him a lot until the 3rd, still looks good.
Dale - In defense all game which was interesting.
Martin - Held his own against Gawn for the most part, recipient of some very soft FF which certainly helped him. Tough opponent but was definitely a genuine ruck share and I'm not sure he scored outside of the clearances so that's a worry. Still, looks fit and could easily be a decent play.
Scott - Playing HB/Back Pocket, seems to have pushed JJ out of the team for this one at least, couldn't do much more in the role, was very good defensively and even bobbed up to kick a couple of goals which is ridiculous. Very much in play if he's there round 1, mature body, base priced M/F in a great fantasy role. Lot of names lurking but great signs. Crozier injury if severe can't hurt his cause.
West - Playing HF also and looked solid. Reckon he's matured into their best 22 by the looks.
McNeil - Played HF/Pocket with a couple of stints on the wing, did some really nice things, lack of quantity not the best result but Vandermeer injury which they said was hip pointer but sure looked like a hamstring in play would certainly help his case. Definitely at threat to Treloar though but worth watching for at his price. Looks a very lively player.
Bedendo - Came on after Vandermeer's injury, did a couple of things but not much, clearly behind McNeil for mine.
Khamis - Came on for the Naughton injury and they flipped Keath forward (where he had no impact), moves very well and has a confident kick on him. Good size and when he fills out is going to be a fair unit I imagine. Did some nice things but be surprised if he plays.
Demons - Missing their mids and got spanked as a result, their backline held up amazingly well and they're lucky the Dogs lack forwards because it was an absolute avalanche, should have been close to 10 goals down at half time and the Dogs probably should have had low 20s goals on the board by 3/4 time when I stopped. Honestly, not a lot of positives to take out of this but will try! With no Brayshaw, Viney or Oliver in the midfield, no Salem or Hibberd down back and no Brown, Pickett or Weideman up forward it's pretty hard to read anything into it except for the "if you're not getting a game now you're not getting one in round 1" level of input.
May - Positive #1, he was great. Took the majority of kick-ins and used it well. Had a ridiculous amount of supply, he'll be the top defender if they play like that regularly. Think he should be roughly where he was last year though, maybe a bit more with the kick-in rule and a bit more waxing down back. Durability history says it's not a risk worth taking to me.
Fritsch - Lone gunner up forward, he played a great game all things considered.
Langdon - Prolific as always, kicking of no value as always.
Gawn - He dominated but with no midfield he got very little value from his hitouts as the Dogs just sharked all day or took it off whoever got it if it was a Demon. He looks really fit but there is a trend I don't like when looking to pick him.
Lever - Postive #2, finally seems to be getting the balance between intercept and his man which has been a huge issue for him to date. Was great.
ANB - Solid game from him also.
Petracca - Standout Negative #1. In a game without the rest of the midfield you'd be looking for him to stand up, he not only didn't stand up, he spent an inordinate amount of time up forward and covered no ground. As a player with one good season and a career of lacking fitness undermining his ability to impact that's two games from him where he's not roaming the ground and basically playing a Jake Stringeresque role of take a centre bounce and then go to the forward half. He looked alright the few times he was near it but I have a really bad feeling Goodwin is going to let him rot up forward. Been probably his biggest fan but I can't start him on the back of his two games, performance and role both big crosses.
Harmes - Standout Negative #2. Pretty much the same story as Petracca, if he was going to shine and stamp a place it was this game. Role wasn't bad and he did a few nice things but underwhelming is definitely the word to describe his game.
Jordon - Not a fan after two games. If he's there round one with the role he's playing he's going to be hard to pass up on but he's shown me nothing. One of those players where after two games I'm still trying to work out what is his strength, to say his disposal was bad would be generous, he doesn't seem to have a hardness to him and he's a step slow into everything. Don't want to write him off, it's two games, but his role couldn't be better and I'd say his output this week was better than last week in the same role so it's definitely a concern. Will probably end up being the top rookie such is trying to pick them but I definitely was hoping for more given who is coming back.
Chandler - A positive for mine, starved of opportunities from the nature of the game but what he did was excellent, didn't miss a target even though he took on several difficult kicks which he hit perfectly, he tackles well, he shows game awareness above his experience. Really liked him, if he's not in their best 22 I'd be shocked, even allowing for the Goodwin factor! I think the Demons are a much better side than this so the role as a HF/FP is not as bad as it seems tonight.
Rivers - Took what kick-ins May didn't. He was solid but nothing to scream pick me.
Jackson - Another positive for mine. Held his own in the ruck and provided a good contest around the ground, making a lot more contests than he was last year. He's still another year in the gym from holding up in the packs to mark it but he's going to be a good one.
Baker - Lost the role from last week, stuck HF mostly. Didn't play half as well as he did last week.
Bowey - Came on when Lockhart went off and did a couple of nice things. Be surprised if he's there round one but a few injuries don't hurt his cause and the team being so bad across the board also might enable a bit more selection aggression.
General - Pretty solid game, Demons pretty undermanned and it showed but they gave a fight and the Dogs went hard. Rules again didn't seem overly noticeable other than the long kick-ins from the Demons which worked for about a quarter. Watched 3/4 because it was just getting ugly at that point and I'd seen enough.
Dogs - Most important takeaway is that they took this hitout very seriously, only used extra players for injuries, players seemed to be in clear roles that I think we see in the regular season, reckon this was the best indicator of the real stuff of any teams game I've seen by a fair margin. Missing Treloar, maybe JJ (played reserves) and Wood from the best 22 for mine. Treloar clearly the main one there as we have no idea what he's going to change.
Macrae - Standard game for him. Just everywhere, looks like he kicked on in the last. Looks great, has to be the pick of the 120+ guys for mine because there definitely is a bit of an outside shift to the games for mine.
Bont - Beastly, kicked 3 sweet goals, all while playing midfield just to reinforce how much more scoreboard impact he has from there compared to forward. Looks very good and the role was top notch, Treloar not going to impact him, imo.
Dunkley - This one really snuck up on me, when they showed Bont's 150 in the third he was second on 100+ and I honestly hadn't noticed him. I guess 8 clearances and 20CP will hardcore spike and the 11 tackles kind of go under the radar also. Role was good, probably played the most forward of the group but still got plenty of minutes. Definitely will raise eyebrows with the score and putting his hand right up.
Liberatore - Would have played the 2nd most forward of the midfield group, felt like probably a 60/40 split mid with Dunkley, with both filling in for Bont/Macrae when they weren't there. Wouldn't think there were too many other Dogs who got a CBA (I noticed Hunter once). Looks really good.
Daniel - New roles are pretty huge for him, about the only time he ever missed kicks previously is when he had to go over the man on the mark which he never has to do now. Prolific, looked like ANB put some time into him in the 2nd but he worked through it and just kept going. Took every kick-in that I saw. Already had him in my team, big tick.
Lipinski - Playing a pure wing role and did great in it. Not on my radar but strong game. Some team should be in his ear though.
English - Felt like a 40/60 R/F split to me, with much more forward as the game was over. Looked solid but don't like him in that role.
Smith - Played the other wing basically the entire game, there were only a couple of times all game I noticed that it wasn't Smith and Lipinski on the wings. I think that those two being out there is a great result for Dunkley as both could steal midfield minutes off him.
Hunter - Played a high HF role pretty much all game, I can't say I saw him on the wing for a CBA at all but I wasn't looking intently until I noticed he kept being at HF and watched for it. That doesn't impact the other mids to me but an interest change, showed some craft up there and still roamed, probably a good use of him. Not a good fantasy outcome though.
Williams - Imagine he did bulk of his scoring in the 2nd half as didn't notice him a lot until the 3rd, still looks good.
Dale - In defense all game which was interesting.
Martin - Held his own against Gawn for the most part, recipient of some very soft FF which certainly helped him. Tough opponent but was definitely a genuine ruck share and I'm not sure he scored outside of the clearances so that's a worry. Still, looks fit and could easily be a decent play.
Scott - Playing HB/Back Pocket, seems to have pushed JJ out of the team for this one at least, couldn't do much more in the role, was very good defensively and even bobbed up to kick a couple of goals which is ridiculous. Very much in play if he's there round 1, mature body, base priced M/F in a great fantasy role. Lot of names lurking but great signs. Crozier injury if severe can't hurt his cause.
West - Playing HF also and looked solid. Reckon he's matured into their best 22 by the looks.
McNeil - Played HF/Pocket with a couple of stints on the wing, did some really nice things, lack of quantity not the best result but Vandermeer injury which they said was hip pointer but sure looked like a hamstring in play would certainly help his case. Definitely at threat to Treloar though but worth watching for at his price. Looks a very lively player.
Bedendo - Came on after Vandermeer's injury, did a couple of things but not much, clearly behind McNeil for mine.
Khamis - Came on for the Naughton injury and they flipped Keath forward (where he had no impact), moves very well and has a confident kick on him. Good size and when he fills out is going to be a fair unit I imagine. Did some nice things but be surprised if he plays.
Demons - Missing their mids and got spanked as a result, their backline held up amazingly well and they're lucky the Dogs lack forwards because it was an absolute avalanche, should have been close to 10 goals down at half time and the Dogs probably should have had low 20s goals on the board by 3/4 time when I stopped. Honestly, not a lot of positives to take out of this but will try! With no Brayshaw, Viney or Oliver in the midfield, no Salem or Hibberd down back and no Brown, Pickett or Weideman up forward it's pretty hard to read anything into it except for the "if you're not getting a game now you're not getting one in round 1" level of input.
May - Positive #1, he was great. Took the majority of kick-ins and used it well. Had a ridiculous amount of supply, he'll be the top defender if they play like that regularly. Think he should be roughly where he was last year though, maybe a bit more with the kick-in rule and a bit more waxing down back. Durability history says it's not a risk worth taking to me.
Fritsch - Lone gunner up forward, he played a great game all things considered.
Langdon - Prolific as always, kicking of no value as always.
Gawn - He dominated but with no midfield he got very little value from his hitouts as the Dogs just sharked all day or took it off whoever got it if it was a Demon. He looks really fit but there is a trend I don't like when looking to pick him.
Lever - Postive #2, finally seems to be getting the balance between intercept and his man which has been a huge issue for him to date. Was great.
ANB - Solid game from him also.
Petracca - Standout Negative #1. In a game without the rest of the midfield you'd be looking for him to stand up, he not only didn't stand up, he spent an inordinate amount of time up forward and covered no ground. As a player with one good season and a career of lacking fitness undermining his ability to impact that's two games from him where he's not roaming the ground and basically playing a Jake Stringeresque role of take a centre bounce and then go to the forward half. He looked alright the few times he was near it but I have a really bad feeling Goodwin is going to let him rot up forward. Been probably his biggest fan but I can't start him on the back of his two games, performance and role both big crosses.
Harmes - Standout Negative #2. Pretty much the same story as Petracca, if he was going to shine and stamp a place it was this game. Role wasn't bad and he did a few nice things but underwhelming is definitely the word to describe his game.
Jordon - Not a fan after two games. If he's there round one with the role he's playing he's going to be hard to pass up on but he's shown me nothing. One of those players where after two games I'm still trying to work out what is his strength, to say his disposal was bad would be generous, he doesn't seem to have a hardness to him and he's a step slow into everything. Don't want to write him off, it's two games, but his role couldn't be better and I'd say his output this week was better than last week in the same role so it's definitely a concern. Will probably end up being the top rookie such is trying to pick them but I definitely was hoping for more given who is coming back.
Chandler - A positive for mine, starved of opportunities from the nature of the game but what he did was excellent, didn't miss a target even though he took on several difficult kicks which he hit perfectly, he tackles well, he shows game awareness above his experience. Really liked him, if he's not in their best 22 I'd be shocked, even allowing for the Goodwin factor! I think the Demons are a much better side than this so the role as a HF/FP is not as bad as it seems tonight.
Rivers - Took what kick-ins May didn't. He was solid but nothing to scream pick me.
Jackson - Another positive for mine. Held his own in the ruck and provided a good contest around the ground, making a lot more contests than he was last year. He's still another year in the gym from holding up in the packs to mark it but he's going to be a good one.
Baker - Lost the role from last week, stuck HF mostly. Didn't play half as well as he did last week.
Bowey - Came on when Lockhart went off and did a couple of nice things. Be surprised if he's there round one but a few injuries don't hurt his cause and the team being so bad across the board also might enable a bit more selection aggression.
Last game of the round!
Lions vs Gold Coast
General - Pretty good game overall, Suns got the jump and dominated the first half before the Lions bounced back and dominated the 3rd and based on the score also the last (I watched 3/4), Both teams seemed to want to play outside the corridor more than in other games. Conditions were a bit humid and the game was a bit more fumbly as a result.
Lions - Stinker of a first half, great in the third. Only real change seemed to be Lyons onto the ball. Think we basically just saw the best 22 lineup for them and didn't use a couple of the bench spots even. Don't think they'll be happy with the injury to Rayner and the performance but it is what it is.
Berry - He was solid, HF/Wing/Mid role for him, similar to last year, missed two goals you'd be doing double push-ups for missing at training as a 4th grade amateur which is becoming a real problem in his game but was otherwise very good. He still tempts me but can't take the risk!
Zorko - Solid game, high HF role as in previous years. Reckon he's pretty solid bet to be top 6, just a matter of where he scores.
Neale - Tale of two halves, was terrible in the first and very good in the third quarter and based on the overall score went on with it a bit but I can't say I was impressed. He has all the tell tale signs of a player underdone to me. Kick lacking a bit of penetration, not pushing for follow-up touches, just lacking a bit of burst when running, not sticking tackles, fumbling. Basically all the things that Neale is not noted for. Now how much of it is preseason and how much of it is lack of preseason? His third was really solid but even then it wasn't the Lachie Neale of last year just tearing it apart. I definitely have concerns after two weeks of underwhelming from him, tough to leave him out though!
Rich - Really solid again, was better last week, imo, but another great hitout for him. Took all but a couple of kick-ins, of which both I saw Birchall turned over badly, so should be on that duty. Reckon he's your under the radar option for anyone who is looking at run and carry kicking half backs who could push to new highs. I'm genuinely considering him.
Daniher - Not a great game, supply was non-existent in the first half, still managed a 63 regardless. He just looks fit and is attacking the ball well. Easy choice for mine, going to kick some bags when the Lions get on top I reckon.
Lyons - Went back on ball in the 3rd after rotting up forward all first half and the game changed, not really anything he did himself but they just played better. Interesting to see him outside the mid so much.
McCluggage - Wanted to be convinced, was not. Role was solid but not great although the Rayner injury can't hurt that element but he just didn't show what I wanted to see from him. Really was looking for a dominant display that makes me want him and this was as meh as meh can be.
Robinson - Thought he was solid, which is bad for Ely Smith. Definitely not commanding a spot though.
McInerney - Was solid against a top ruck in Witts and held his own for the most part. Nothing to make me want to pick him though.
Bailey - Role was fantastic, ratio is absurd, I thought he butchered it a bit tonight but obviously got some nice judging. Rolled an ankle very early and played through it. Still reckon he's one of the top 2 or 3 forward options around his price. No one will pick him though.
Payne - Did his job. Not worth his price.
Fullarton - Was actually very impressive, didn't do a lot but what he did was classy. McStay injury will open a door and I'd have liked to see a lot more ruck from him to assert the need for him in the team (both he and Daniher had short backup stints) but his goals were well taken and he'd be unlucky to fal out of the side.
Sharp - What he did was excellent, didn't come on until the Rayner injury and given he's in HS and looks about 13 I think it's hard to expect him to play consistently or much early in the season but he actually looks ready. Showed very nice skills on his touches and he runs really really well which everyone already knows. Almost be better if he doesn't play this year so he can tear it to pieces next year!
Rayner - The sad story, looked an ACL with the mechanism in how he did it, the test and the reaction. Fingers crossed the scans throw up a miracle for him as someone who knows how wretched that injury is but have to assume the worst. Silver lining could be a chance for Smith or Sharp I guess but rough after he finally had the penny drop and get in shape. Hopefully it's his Robbie Gray moment and he realises exactly what footy means to him and comes back to tear the league to pieces!
Gold Coast - Would be happy I think, got through without issue, dominated for a half and did some nice things in general. They still look a young side a couple of years from being a big threat but they should be improving this year. Not missing much, if anyone, for this game by my count.
Weller - Really solid game off HF/Wing. Not relevant to me.
Miller - Sneaky under the radar breakout potential but not worth the risk for me but he looks a year fitter and stronger.
Macpherson - HF role, was prolific but think it's more of an anomaly on the role than back in the role of a couple of years ago when he put up premium numbers.
Brodie - Looked good, probably 40% midfield to 60% forward for him so not a great role. Don't think the minutes are there but he's not the worst punt at his price up forward. Probably an injury to Rowell/Greenwood/Miller from a big midfield role so one to watch throughout the season. He's clearly in much better shape than he's ever been.
Powell - Prolific again off half back. Not for me but wouldn't shock if he's one of those surprise names in that sub-premium high 80s/low 90s group.
Ellis - Pure wing.
Witts - Was the better of the rucks but not great, would hope for more against the competition he faced.
Markov - Wing/HB type role. Ratio seemed a bit rough but not getting enough of it or getting to the spaces yet to think he will.
Lukosius - Wing for first half and then a bit of HB but didn't do anything to demand a spot in my side as one of his bigger fans. He's a quality player but he doesn't get enough easy touches but also doesn't do any of the SC gold like intercept or contested touches.
Anderson - Another with a rough ratio, his inside work was excellent, definitely didn't notice the clangers. Still a year away from premium land though.
Budarick - Really maturing as a player, the confidence to demand the ball and the kicking are definitely improving highlights for him. Good game. Definitely a potential premium as well in the future.
Greenwood - Solid game, nothing special, nothing to demand a punt he progresses further.
Rowell - Dat ratio. The way he lands and how often he lands when being tackled scare the crap out of me given his shoulder but he's just a beast at being in the right place in the contest. Has that Tom Mitchell of the ball just seems to go to him and he's got the class away from the contest also. He's so tempting, like legitimately tempting. It goes against almost every reasoned logic in this game, but he's just so tempting.
Bowes - Took the few kick-ins I saw, did not much else.
Lions vs Gold Coast
General - Pretty good game overall, Suns got the jump and dominated the first half before the Lions bounced back and dominated the 3rd and based on the score also the last (I watched 3/4), Both teams seemed to want to play outside the corridor more than in other games. Conditions were a bit humid and the game was a bit more fumbly as a result.
Lions - Stinker of a first half, great in the third. Only real change seemed to be Lyons onto the ball. Think we basically just saw the best 22 lineup for them and didn't use a couple of the bench spots even. Don't think they'll be happy with the injury to Rayner and the performance but it is what it is.
Berry - He was solid, HF/Wing/Mid role for him, similar to last year, missed two goals you'd be doing double push-ups for missing at training as a 4th grade amateur which is becoming a real problem in his game but was otherwise very good. He still tempts me but can't take the risk!
Zorko - Solid game, high HF role as in previous years. Reckon he's pretty solid bet to be top 6, just a matter of where he scores.
Neale - Tale of two halves, was terrible in the first and very good in the third quarter and based on the overall score went on with it a bit but I can't say I was impressed. He has all the tell tale signs of a player underdone to me. Kick lacking a bit of penetration, not pushing for follow-up touches, just lacking a bit of burst when running, not sticking tackles, fumbling. Basically all the things that Neale is not noted for. Now how much of it is preseason and how much of it is lack of preseason? His third was really solid but even then it wasn't the Lachie Neale of last year just tearing it apart. I definitely have concerns after two weeks of underwhelming from him, tough to leave him out though!
Rich - Really solid again, was better last week, imo, but another great hitout for him. Took all but a couple of kick-ins, of which both I saw Birchall turned over badly, so should be on that duty. Reckon he's your under the radar option for anyone who is looking at run and carry kicking half backs who could push to new highs. I'm genuinely considering him.
Daniher - Not a great game, supply was non-existent in the first half, still managed a 63 regardless. He just looks fit and is attacking the ball well. Easy choice for mine, going to kick some bags when the Lions get on top I reckon.
Lyons - Went back on ball in the 3rd after rotting up forward all first half and the game changed, not really anything he did himself but they just played better. Interesting to see him outside the mid so much.
McCluggage - Wanted to be convinced, was not. Role was solid but not great although the Rayner injury can't hurt that element but he just didn't show what I wanted to see from him. Really was looking for a dominant display that makes me want him and this was as meh as meh can be.
Robinson - Thought he was solid, which is bad for Ely Smith. Definitely not commanding a spot though.
McInerney - Was solid against a top ruck in Witts and held his own for the most part. Nothing to make me want to pick him though.
Bailey - Role was fantastic, ratio is absurd, I thought he butchered it a bit tonight but obviously got some nice judging. Rolled an ankle very early and played through it. Still reckon he's one of the top 2 or 3 forward options around his price. No one will pick him though.
Payne - Did his job. Not worth his price.
Fullarton - Was actually very impressive, didn't do a lot but what he did was classy. McStay injury will open a door and I'd have liked to see a lot more ruck from him to assert the need for him in the team (both he and Daniher had short backup stints) but his goals were well taken and he'd be unlucky to fal out of the side.
Sharp - What he did was excellent, didn't come on until the Rayner injury and given he's in HS and looks about 13 I think it's hard to expect him to play consistently or much early in the season but he actually looks ready. Showed very nice skills on his touches and he runs really really well which everyone already knows. Almost be better if he doesn't play this year so he can tear it to pieces next year!
Rayner - The sad story, looked an ACL with the mechanism in how he did it, the test and the reaction. Fingers crossed the scans throw up a miracle for him as someone who knows how wretched that injury is but have to assume the worst. Silver lining could be a chance for Smith or Sharp I guess but rough after he finally had the penny drop and get in shape. Hopefully it's his Robbie Gray moment and he realises exactly what footy means to him and comes back to tear the league to pieces!
Gold Coast - Would be happy I think, got through without issue, dominated for a half and did some nice things in general. They still look a young side a couple of years from being a big threat but they should be improving this year. Not missing much, if anyone, for this game by my count.
Weller - Really solid game off HF/Wing. Not relevant to me.
Miller - Sneaky under the radar breakout potential but not worth the risk for me but he looks a year fitter and stronger.
Macpherson - HF role, was prolific but think it's more of an anomaly on the role than back in the role of a couple of years ago when he put up premium numbers.
Brodie - Looked good, probably 40% midfield to 60% forward for him so not a great role. Don't think the minutes are there but he's not the worst punt at his price up forward. Probably an injury to Rowell/Greenwood/Miller from a big midfield role so one to watch throughout the season. He's clearly in much better shape than he's ever been.
Powell - Prolific again off half back. Not for me but wouldn't shock if he's one of those surprise names in that sub-premium high 80s/low 90s group.
Ellis - Pure wing.
Witts - Was the better of the rucks but not great, would hope for more against the competition he faced.
Markov - Wing/HB type role. Ratio seemed a bit rough but not getting enough of it or getting to the spaces yet to think he will.
Lukosius - Wing for first half and then a bit of HB but didn't do anything to demand a spot in my side as one of his bigger fans. He's a quality player but he doesn't get enough easy touches but also doesn't do any of the SC gold like intercept or contested touches.
Anderson - Another with a rough ratio, his inside work was excellent, definitely didn't notice the clangers. Still a year away from premium land though.
Budarick - Really maturing as a player, the confidence to demand the ball and the kicking are definitely improving highlights for him. Good game. Definitely a potential premium as well in the future.
Greenwood - Solid game, nothing special, nothing to demand a punt he progresses further.
Rowell - Dat ratio. The way he lands and how often he lands when being tackled scare the crap out of me given his shoulder but he's just a beast at being in the right place in the contest. Has that Tom Mitchell of the ball just seems to go to him and he's got the class away from the contest also. He's so tempting, like legitimately tempting. It goes against almost every reasoned logic in this game, but he's just so tempting.
Bowes - Took the few kick-ins I saw, did not much else.