Discussion 2022 AFL: Practice Matches & AAMI Community Series Discussion
- Thread starter RIAL
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Blues vs Saints
General - First quarter was a stinker, zero pressure and both teams were what we think they are, 2nd quarter the Saints lifted the pressure a bit, 3rd and 4th were actually solid. Flat 30 minute quarters and both teams didn't really mess around with extra players much.
For mine the CBA/Kickouts as follows, I missed a kickout where they didn't show it:
CBA
Blues
Cripps - 19
Hewett - 14
Cerra - 14
Kennedy - 10
Fisher - 5
Fogarty - 1
Saints
Steele - 19
Ross - 13
Jones - 11
Crouch - 10
Clark - 6
Higgins - 2
Gresham - 2
Kick-ins
Blues
Gov - 3
Williams - 2
Saad - 1
Newman - 4
Saints
Sinclair - 4
Battle - 3
Hill - 2
Webster - 2
Paton - 1
Blues - Got the win and some decent games from a few they'd have been hoping for. Were very good in the first with no pressure, got a lot sloppier and struggled to move the ball once there was a bit more intensity around the ground but I think they'd take that game overall.
Numerical Order
Silvagni - Was really impressive as a 3rd tall/2nd ruck for them. Probably the best forward on the ground for mine. This is a negative as I imagine he and Kemp are in direct competition.
O'Brien - I thought he played really well, probably a bit too expensive in the mids, but played wing all day and did some nice things. Still had a few bad moments but overall a tick for mine.
Cerra - Really good game, couple of classy goals and just looked to be the receiver whenever possible. Resting forward a bit when not in the mid. Was really good, probably too much of a jump and a bit too much uncertainty with Walsh out as he is the guy who most resembles Walsh in that midfield mix.
Williams - Off half back, started super well but faded a bit. Role was good but too many chefs down back for me with him being injury prone and never having gone high enough previously.
Kennedy - Solid 4th midfielder for them, played well but a clear notch below the top 3 for mine. Didn't do much forward which is really where he lacks at this point. Clearance work was solid.
Fogarty - Only on the 4th I believe, didn't do much.
Cripps - Oh god, here we go. Looked excellent. Played all 4 quarters pure mid, resting forward a little bit, worked really hard around the ground, clearance beast as always, throwing his weight into tackles, lot of mark work around the ground, even kicked well for him. Most importantly perhaps was that he was huge in the 4th and really running on top of the ground. Honestly, looked excellent and despite that woeful durability he's forced his way into my consideration list! I'm going to get this wrong no matter what because that is my relationship with him as a fantasy player!
McGovern - Was really solid and completely unspectacular down back. I actually liked the things not on the stat sheet from his game. Was working really hard without the ball to create space, wasn't used today but that's a great sign for a notoriously lazy player and also for his fantasy scoring long term. Already on my watch list but I reckon he probably put up a 50 today which will have many rub him out but I personally gave him a big tick, really liked the game and that he actually looks like he's fit. Was a very man on man approach by Blues, so not a lot of the 3rd man work to be had.
Kemp - I really liked his game also, was very solid as the 2nd tall, love his reading of the upfield play to time leads, very Jack Riewoldt like in that fashion of holding his lead for the space and player up field to eventuate. The negative is Silvagni was better overall but this was a really solid game. A big positive is all of Curnow, Silvagni and Kemp are athletic enough to probably play together with McKay as they actually give good pressure at ground level. A strong tick, JS still my major concern and it's probably not a great role.
Durdin - Started forward, probably holding Martin's spot, but he was really decent. Nothing to demand a spot but nothing to end his chances either. Would like him to do a bit more and small forwards in mediocre sides are historically bad picks, especially at a small premium, but throw him on the watchlist at least.
Weitering - Solid as ever.
Newman - Solid, will be around that 90 mark give or take I expect.
Fisher - Solid midfield minutes, mostly forward. Solid but didn't do anything to make me want him this year. Still rate him.
Pittonet - Strong in the ruck today, didn't do anything to open a door for Mirkov, imo.
Hewett - Probably the best clearance player on the field today. Walsh factor is really the big question but got a lot of first hands and was so clean with them. Good in working around the ground to add some cheaper touches. Rested forward where he still found the pill. Was already high up on my watch list and this game was a firm tick next to his name. Still a risky pick and I really wish Walsh was playing but I reckon we see him and Cerra basically stay where they were today and Walsh will eat everyone belows midfield time predominantly.
Curnow - Actually a really solid game. Battle is among the best matchups for him in the league, had I believe 5 or 6 shots at goal, they were terrible efforts but I don't care about that as much as the chances generated. Worked hard all game. Did seem to get up a bit ginger late in the game and was off with a few minutes to go, no idea if there's anything to it but given his history you have to be at least a little worried. The game itself was a really big tick for mine though.
Boyd - I didn't notice him if he played the first quarter but was solid after that, loved his aggression even if it led to some free kicks, first couple of touches were rushed and not good but after that he was really solid. Playing HB type of role and was solid. Fact he is playing is a good sign and at least in the mix. Probably needs a big game next week though.
McDonald - Was really good. Reckon he basically confirmed that 2nd KPD role. Debatable if he's cheap enough to worry about but think he can score solidly and at least it's a forward rookie who looks to have good JS and a role at round 1, all else fails.
Saad - Same old. Borderline relevant but too many others for mine.
Setterfield - Started wing, was alright but he's not relevant if not playing inside and he's not playing inside unless there is a catastrophe.
Owies - The main small forward, was solid.
Mirkov - Has legs for days, genuine stilts on the kid. He's very tall and was good when getting clean hands on it. Campbell did move him very easily though but beat Hayes pretty well when matched up. Don't expect to see him much though but definitely some potential, moves well for that size.
General - First quarter was a stinker, zero pressure and both teams were what we think they are, 2nd quarter the Saints lifted the pressure a bit, 3rd and 4th were actually solid. Flat 30 minute quarters and both teams didn't really mess around with extra players much.
For mine the CBA/Kickouts as follows, I missed a kickout where they didn't show it:
CBA
Blues
Cripps - 19
Hewett - 14
Cerra - 14
Kennedy - 10
Fisher - 5
Fogarty - 1
Saints
Steele - 19
Ross - 13
Jones - 11
Crouch - 10
Clark - 6
Higgins - 2
Gresham - 2
Kick-ins
Blues
Gov - 3
Williams - 2
Saad - 1
Newman - 4
Saints
Sinclair - 4
Battle - 3
Hill - 2
Webster - 2
Paton - 1
Blues - Got the win and some decent games from a few they'd have been hoping for. Were very good in the first with no pressure, got a lot sloppier and struggled to move the ball once there was a bit more intensity around the ground but I think they'd take that game overall.
Numerical Order
Silvagni - Was really impressive as a 3rd tall/2nd ruck for them. Probably the best forward on the ground for mine. This is a negative as I imagine he and Kemp are in direct competition.
O'Brien - I thought he played really well, probably a bit too expensive in the mids, but played wing all day and did some nice things. Still had a few bad moments but overall a tick for mine.
Cerra - Really good game, couple of classy goals and just looked to be the receiver whenever possible. Resting forward a bit when not in the mid. Was really good, probably too much of a jump and a bit too much uncertainty with Walsh out as he is the guy who most resembles Walsh in that midfield mix.
Williams - Off half back, started super well but faded a bit. Role was good but too many chefs down back for me with him being injury prone and never having gone high enough previously.
Kennedy - Solid 4th midfielder for them, played well but a clear notch below the top 3 for mine. Didn't do much forward which is really where he lacks at this point. Clearance work was solid.
Fogarty - Only on the 4th I believe, didn't do much.
Cripps - Oh god, here we go. Looked excellent. Played all 4 quarters pure mid, resting forward a little bit, worked really hard around the ground, clearance beast as always, throwing his weight into tackles, lot of mark work around the ground, even kicked well for him. Most importantly perhaps was that he was huge in the 4th and really running on top of the ground. Honestly, looked excellent and despite that woeful durability he's forced his way into my consideration list! I'm going to get this wrong no matter what because that is my relationship with him as a fantasy player!
McGovern - Was really solid and completely unspectacular down back. I actually liked the things not on the stat sheet from his game. Was working really hard without the ball to create space, wasn't used today but that's a great sign for a notoriously lazy player and also for his fantasy scoring long term. Already on my watch list but I reckon he probably put up a 50 today which will have many rub him out but I personally gave him a big tick, really liked the game and that he actually looks like he's fit. Was a very man on man approach by Blues, so not a lot of the 3rd man work to be had.
Kemp - I really liked his game also, was very solid as the 2nd tall, love his reading of the upfield play to time leads, very Jack Riewoldt like in that fashion of holding his lead for the space and player up field to eventuate. The negative is Silvagni was better overall but this was a really solid game. A big positive is all of Curnow, Silvagni and Kemp are athletic enough to probably play together with McKay as they actually give good pressure at ground level. A strong tick, JS still my major concern and it's probably not a great role.
Durdin - Started forward, probably holding Martin's spot, but he was really decent. Nothing to demand a spot but nothing to end his chances either. Would like him to do a bit more and small forwards in mediocre sides are historically bad picks, especially at a small premium, but throw him on the watchlist at least.
Weitering - Solid as ever.
Newman - Solid, will be around that 90 mark give or take I expect.
Fisher - Solid midfield minutes, mostly forward. Solid but didn't do anything to make me want him this year. Still rate him.
Pittonet - Strong in the ruck today, didn't do anything to open a door for Mirkov, imo.
Hewett - Probably the best clearance player on the field today. Walsh factor is really the big question but got a lot of first hands and was so clean with them. Good in working around the ground to add some cheaper touches. Rested forward where he still found the pill. Was already high up on my watch list and this game was a firm tick next to his name. Still a risky pick and I really wish Walsh was playing but I reckon we see him and Cerra basically stay where they were today and Walsh will eat everyone belows midfield time predominantly.
Curnow - Actually a really solid game. Battle is among the best matchups for him in the league, had I believe 5 or 6 shots at goal, they were terrible efforts but I don't care about that as much as the chances generated. Worked hard all game. Did seem to get up a bit ginger late in the game and was off with a few minutes to go, no idea if there's anything to it but given his history you have to be at least a little worried. The game itself was a really big tick for mine though.
Boyd - I didn't notice him if he played the first quarter but was solid after that, loved his aggression even if it led to some free kicks, first couple of touches were rushed and not good but after that he was really solid. Playing HB type of role and was solid. Fact he is playing is a good sign and at least in the mix. Probably needs a big game next week though.
McDonald - Was really good. Reckon he basically confirmed that 2nd KPD role. Debatable if he's cheap enough to worry about but think he can score solidly and at least it's a forward rookie who looks to have good JS and a role at round 1, all else fails.
Saad - Same old. Borderline relevant but too many others for mine.
Setterfield - Started wing, was alright but he's not relevant if not playing inside and he's not playing inside unless there is a catastrophe.
Owies - The main small forward, was solid.
Mirkov - Has legs for days, genuine stilts on the kid. He's very tall and was good when getting clean hands on it. Campbell did move him very easily though but beat Hayes pretty well when matched up. Don't expect to see him much though but definitely some potential, moves well for that size.
Saints - First quarter was a mare, zero pressure and their ability to turn it over under no pressure was a real standout, it didn't get much better really after that except their pressure lifted and the Blues came down to their level. I've said it many times and I don't love to harp on it but I just can't see them being a competitive team as long as they keep playing so many butchers through the midfield and actively keeping the ball away from their better players. They've got talented players but Ratten seems to be all about heart and hardness at the expense of all else.
Jones - I love his effort, his speed is dynamic for them and something they do lack badly but good god his disposal leaves a lot to be desired. Weirdly he's almost better when he runs himself into trouble than when he has time
Gresham - His TOG seemed low, might just be that he didn't get near it as he was still out there in the 4th and was definitely there in the 1st also. Only 2 CBA that I saw and very limited midfield role. Playing as a forward pocket when forward rather than that high HF role as well isn't ideal. Ultimately he's such a creative forward close to goal that he kept being there rather than other spots and Ratten's seriously low focus on skilled ball use out of the guts doesn't help here. I like him and he could be a good pick but he definitely had a cross today rather than the tick.
Crouch - See team description... He's not the worst at it but he's just become a real plodder that can't kick unfortunately.
Ross - He is the worst of them. He had a play in the first quarter where he had 3 touches in about 15 seconds, all uncontested and basically all because he missed his target by so much that he ended up going and getting it again... Honestly his ability to find the ball is exceptional but he's just so terrible with it and so utterly limited as a player that I don't understand why he's still playing AFL, nevermind the 2nd main midfielder. It's genuinely crazy.
Hill - Off half back, still lazy and doesn't work hard enough. There's a genuine fantasy role there to be had as well if he will work to find space.
Steele - Tick for him, like that he played all game in the mid, good sign he's feeling good. Honestly, he's the only mid who can hit a target reliably for them so will continue to funnel the ball through him. I don't like the team around him though, so hard to continually be an elite scorer with so little help.
Clark - Underwhelming, role was decent but he just is so close to being really good but doesn't seem to want to take it. Has size but doesn't use it, has class but rushes and doesn't demand the ball enough. Just kind of floating by at this point sadly. Would be nice if he got a full game in the mids though to really find out.
King - Was solid.
Byrnes - Same role as last year, nothing really of note here.
Billings - Started HF, wing mostly, wasted talent out there. I don't get it at all.
Butler - Like Gresham it felt like his TOG was low and yet I think he played a whole game. Did very little.
Long - Came on 2nd half, played forward, did very little.
Higgins - Worked hard and was the standout of the smaller forwards for mine. Not fantasy relevant but at least I can say I know he was there!
Battle - Probably the Saints best for mine, played Curnow very well but intercepted even better, hard to do against the main forward, and used the ball well for the most part. Reckon it's the right role for him. Definitely a sneaky fantasy bet if he can get freed up by Howard to play as a genuine intercept player.
Membrey - Was outstanding as an intercept extra man when he did it, was solid as a forward but wasteful in front of goal. Is what he is.
Webster - Solid game for him, same old. Think the fantasy god dream is dead but has grafted a nice little career.
Wood - Was really good, wing/HF and worked really hard, especially defensively. I thought he was one of their best. I still think there's a legit player there if he plays 22 games but I'm not taking the punt!
Paton - Good to see him back, was solid. Mostly defensive role as others did the rebound, too expensive unfortunately but good player.
Sinclair - Probably their most consistent rebounder, could definitely push into the 90s this year but lot of others stealing touches.
McKenzie - Played wing, highlight of the game was a huge tackle on Newman, might be his only highlight though
Campbell - Was solid but he's not playing if the main two are fit.
Joyce - Was really solid as well down back, hard to squeeze everyone in though.
Sharman - Solid but nothing special. 2nd ruck early was interesting.
Wilkie - Same old for him.
Jones - I love his effort, his speed is dynamic for them and something they do lack badly but good god his disposal leaves a lot to be desired. Weirdly he's almost better when he runs himself into trouble than when he has time
Gresham - His TOG seemed low, might just be that he didn't get near it as he was still out there in the 4th and was definitely there in the 1st also. Only 2 CBA that I saw and very limited midfield role. Playing as a forward pocket when forward rather than that high HF role as well isn't ideal. Ultimately he's such a creative forward close to goal that he kept being there rather than other spots and Ratten's seriously low focus on skilled ball use out of the guts doesn't help here. I like him and he could be a good pick but he definitely had a cross today rather than the tick.
Crouch - See team description... He's not the worst at it but he's just become a real plodder that can't kick unfortunately.
Ross - He is the worst of them. He had a play in the first quarter where he had 3 touches in about 15 seconds, all uncontested and basically all because he missed his target by so much that he ended up going and getting it again... Honestly his ability to find the ball is exceptional but he's just so terrible with it and so utterly limited as a player that I don't understand why he's still playing AFL, nevermind the 2nd main midfielder. It's genuinely crazy.
Hill - Off half back, still lazy and doesn't work hard enough. There's a genuine fantasy role there to be had as well if he will work to find space.
Steele - Tick for him, like that he played all game in the mid, good sign he's feeling good. Honestly, he's the only mid who can hit a target reliably for them so will continue to funnel the ball through him. I don't like the team around him though, so hard to continually be an elite scorer with so little help.
Clark - Underwhelming, role was decent but he just is so close to being really good but doesn't seem to want to take it. Has size but doesn't use it, has class but rushes and doesn't demand the ball enough. Just kind of floating by at this point sadly. Would be nice if he got a full game in the mids though to really find out.
King - Was solid.
Byrnes - Same role as last year, nothing really of note here.
Billings - Started HF, wing mostly, wasted talent out there. I don't get it at all.
Butler - Like Gresham it felt like his TOG was low and yet I think he played a whole game. Did very little.
Long - Came on 2nd half, played forward, did very little.
Higgins - Worked hard and was the standout of the smaller forwards for mine. Not fantasy relevant but at least I can say I know he was there!
Battle - Probably the Saints best for mine, played Curnow very well but intercepted even better, hard to do against the main forward, and used the ball well for the most part. Reckon it's the right role for him. Definitely a sneaky fantasy bet if he can get freed up by Howard to play as a genuine intercept player.
Membrey - Was outstanding as an intercept extra man when he did it, was solid as a forward but wasteful in front of goal. Is what he is.
Webster - Solid game for him, same old. Think the fantasy god dream is dead but has grafted a nice little career.
Wood - Was really good, wing/HF and worked really hard, especially defensively. I thought he was one of their best. I still think there's a legit player there if he plays 22 games but I'm not taking the punt!
Paton - Good to see him back, was solid. Mostly defensive role as others did the rebound, too expensive unfortunately but good player.
Sinclair - Probably their most consistent rebounder, could definitely push into the 90s this year but lot of others stealing touches.
McKenzie - Played wing, highlight of the game was a huge tackle on Newman, might be his only highlight though
Campbell - Was solid but he's not playing if the main two are fit.
Joyce - Was really solid as well down back, hard to squeeze everyone in though.
Sharman - Solid but nothing special. 2nd ruck early was interesting.
Wilkie - Same old for him.
Nearly half of English's CBAs were in the last quarter yesterday. For the first three quarters, from what I saw, he was definitely more forward than ruck. He didn't particularly stand out, but then again I wasn't really looking for him as I was looking for the Bombers and Bulldogs back line structures, and possible rookies.
I would have thought that Walsh is not going to be back and up to speed until rounds 6 to 7?
So the real question is how much will Hewett score in that time? I would guess an average of 95? If this is the case and when Walsh comes back and if he pushes him out of the midfield then has he made enough to have been a good pick?
I think that the biggest fear with him is that they use him as a tagger and his output drops.
So the real question is how much will Hewett score in that time? I would guess an average of 95? If this is the case and when Walsh comes back and if he pushes him out of the midfield then has he made enough to have been a good pick?
I think that the biggest fear with him is that they use him as a tagger and his output drops.
Obviously amazing work here.
But just on Cripps, a couple of posters have already mentioned how impressed they were of his performance today.
Although 2 quarters into watching the game, he has been nothing but fumbly? Lots of handball receives, plenty of ineffective disposals, and his contested possession ratio seemed below average by his standards too.
Reminded me of his 34 disposal 2 goals for 109 SC performance from round 3 last year. Cripps is a 1 trick pony, and he needs to start winning some contested footy/clearances.
But just on Cripps, a couple of posters have already mentioned how impressed they were of his performance today.
Although 2 quarters into watching the game, he has been nothing but fumbly? Lots of handball receives, plenty of ineffective disposals, and his contested possession ratio seemed below average by his standards too.
Reminded me of his 34 disposal 2 goals for 109 SC performance from round 3 last year. Cripps is a 1 trick pony, and he needs to start winning some contested footy/clearances.
I think in that role he can score more than that. Problem with Hewett is he's a keeper or bust price realistically so you'd need that 95 type average for the season I reckon. I actually think he can be a 105 type as a ball winning midfield, has done it for stints when at Sydney.
As you said defensive roles could be a problem but given their midfield I don't think he should be doing that role. They've got Curnow who didn't play or Setterfield or Kennedy who could also do that kind of role without losing as much offense.
Walsh last I saw was aiming for round 1, I doubt he gets there but I don't think he'll miss that much barring setbacks. They may ease him back into it a bit though who knows.
As you said defensive roles could be a problem but given their midfield I don't think he should be doing that role. They've got Curnow who didn't play or Setterfield or Kennedy who could also do that kind of role without losing as much offense.
Walsh last I saw was aiming for round 1, I doubt he gets there but I don't think he'll miss that much barring setbacks. They may ease him back into it a bit though who knows.
Demons vs Kangaroos
General - Well it looked like the best team playing the worst team when the worst team doesn't pick it's first team midfield as an added bonus and then dicks around structurally. Honestly, really hard to take much out of this game, Kangas playing close to a 2nd team throws basically anything they do out. Demons were very good with their pressure level and discipline and reaped the rewards as the game went on. Was a lot of red time scoring for them, again what you'd expect from the top team playing it's best midfield against the worst team playing kids. It is inevitable...
I should note that there was talk of some gastro going through the squads and was originally planned for 6 "quarters" but cut down to 4, they were also shorter than other games so when the possession stats seem lower, that's why, only 25 minutes instead of 30 although I think the first quarter might have actually been 30 as the clock went from 25 back to 23 at least twice.
CBA/Kick-in, may have missed a couple but gives an idea, though I must note that some of the CBA numbers are very misleading as it was more that certain players were in there when Melbourne put on a couple of ~5 goal bursts so they got inflated, will try and mention these names where I can.
CBA
Demons
Oliver - 23
Petracca - 19
Pickett - 8
Sparrow - 16
Harmes - 13
Jordon - 6
ANB -2
Bedford - 3
Kangas
Greenwood - 23
Phillips - 19
Thomas - 15
Powell - 17
JHF - 11
Lazarro - 5
Kick-Ins
May - 5
Smith - 1 (I think)
Salem - 1
Ziebell - 5
Walker - 2
Corr - 1
Goater - 1
Missed - 1 (maybe Goater in hindsight)
Demons - As I said, pressure level was top notch. The difference between their pressure level and the other 5 teams so far was very noticeable and stark, almost like finals level pressure compared to preseason difference, more because of how low pressure the other games have been but they were good and took advantage of a weak opponent.
May - Same old, very solid, did go down the races with a couple of trainers at one point but came back.
Salem - Very prolific, same old. Limped off with a couple of minutes to go and went straight down to the rooms, no idea what it was but not ideal.
Harmes - Solid game, same old by him.
Petracca - Had some tape on his knee and seemed to have a bit more of a hobble than his normal hobbled gait but played really solidly. Didn't really do anything to move the needle either way for mine. Which given I was looking for something from him is annoying
Jackson - Same role as last year, 20-30% ruck time from what I could tell. I haven't been a fan of this pick all o***eason and nothing today changed that at all, if anything it was a cross for mine but realistically he played the role I expected.
Spargo - Same old, very solid game.
Brayshaw - Wing role again, same old.
Gawn - Big tick for him, if he's not giving up any ruck time in the preseason that's probably a good sign. Looked very good when forward as well, a continuation from the finals where he seemed to work that out a bit. Haven't been big on him all o***eason but definitely didn't let me miss him today. Thought he was best on. Must be said that he mostly rucked against CCJ which was like throwing a Chihuahua against a rabid Pitbull and went exactly as you'd expect but Goldy didn't really slow him down much either. Grawndy?
Bedford - Only played 5 or so minutes, couple of nice things but be shocked if he's playing round 1.
Oliver - If Gawn wasn't best afield it was because Oliver was. He has been circling my team all o***eason, liked what I saw. Did pick up a knock very early that had him limping for a minute but played through it and by the end I'd forgotten about it but for the note I took of it. My love of this midfield premium crop in SC this year has not diminished at all.
Hibberd - Shut Zurhaar down, almost felt sorry for him by the end of it between the pig and the total lack of supply!
Langdon - Rock solid on the wing.
Bowey - Solid off half back, don't expect a huge change from last year, some natural improvement but role will be constant.
Tomlinson - Good to see him back, hasn't missed a beat and was very good in KPD role.
Jordon - I didn't notice him early, seemed to come on in 2nd half (might have been a bit early) didn't get midfield time until late. Didn't do a lot.
Rivers - HB, solid, no signs of any kind of huge change here either.
McDonald - Very good up forward, roaming everywhere. Sneaky premium pick but think he caps out mid to high 90s so not my cup of tea.
Weideman - Didn't play until the last 10 or so minutes, rucked mostly, wasn't terrible.
ANB - Same old from him, really solid.
Sparrow - Enormous midfield minutes, I don't think he really took maximum advantage of it, he was good but that kind of role, in that team you want to be great and demand a spot. Would think he goes straight out when Viney comes in, cheap enough to at least pay attention to though.
Pickett - CBA numbers are grossly inflated, basically started each quarter there and then went straight forward and then copped 4 in the last few minutes when the Demons piled on late goals. He looked solid but saw nothing to suggest any change.
Chandler - Started forward and was solid, hard to see him knocking either of Spargo or Pickett out of the side but he's a good player.
Smith - Really solid game down back, will go out for Lever but strong depth provided.
Brown - Really strong game from him, wouldn't shock me if he had the highest SC score on the field, kicked I believe 5, could have easily been 9 or 10. Clunking it really well and looks way fitter. His performance probably the biggest positive for Petracca of this game.
General - Well it looked like the best team playing the worst team when the worst team doesn't pick it's first team midfield as an added bonus and then dicks around structurally. Honestly, really hard to take much out of this game, Kangas playing close to a 2nd team throws basically anything they do out. Demons were very good with their pressure level and discipline and reaped the rewards as the game went on. Was a lot of red time scoring for them, again what you'd expect from the top team playing it's best midfield against the worst team playing kids. It is inevitable...
I should note that there was talk of some gastro going through the squads and was originally planned for 6 "quarters" but cut down to 4, they were also shorter than other games so when the possession stats seem lower, that's why, only 25 minutes instead of 30 although I think the first quarter might have actually been 30 as the clock went from 25 back to 23 at least twice.
CBA/Kick-in, may have missed a couple but gives an idea, though I must note that some of the CBA numbers are very misleading as it was more that certain players were in there when Melbourne put on a couple of ~5 goal bursts so they got inflated, will try and mention these names where I can.
CBA
Demons
Oliver - 23
Petracca - 19
Pickett - 8
Sparrow - 16
Harmes - 13
Jordon - 6
ANB -2
Bedford - 3
Kangas
Greenwood - 23
Phillips - 19
Thomas - 15
Powell - 17
JHF - 11
Lazarro - 5
Kick-Ins
May - 5
Smith - 1 (I think)
Salem - 1
Ziebell - 5
Walker - 2
Corr - 1
Goater - 1
Missed - 1 (maybe Goater in hindsight)
Demons - As I said, pressure level was top notch. The difference between their pressure level and the other 5 teams so far was very noticeable and stark, almost like finals level pressure compared to preseason difference, more because of how low pressure the other games have been but they were good and took advantage of a weak opponent.
May - Same old, very solid, did go down the races with a couple of trainers at one point but came back.
Salem - Very prolific, same old. Limped off with a couple of minutes to go and went straight down to the rooms, no idea what it was but not ideal.
Harmes - Solid game, same old by him.
Petracca - Had some tape on his knee and seemed to have a bit more of a hobble than his normal hobbled gait but played really solidly. Didn't really do anything to move the needle either way for mine. Which given I was looking for something from him is annoying
Jackson - Same role as last year, 20-30% ruck time from what I could tell. I haven't been a fan of this pick all o***eason and nothing today changed that at all, if anything it was a cross for mine but realistically he played the role I expected.
Spargo - Same old, very solid game.
Brayshaw - Wing role again, same old.
Gawn - Big tick for him, if he's not giving up any ruck time in the preseason that's probably a good sign. Looked very good when forward as well, a continuation from the finals where he seemed to work that out a bit. Haven't been big on him all o***eason but definitely didn't let me miss him today. Thought he was best on. Must be said that he mostly rucked against CCJ which was like throwing a Chihuahua against a rabid Pitbull and went exactly as you'd expect but Goldy didn't really slow him down much either. Grawndy?
Bedford - Only played 5 or so minutes, couple of nice things but be shocked if he's playing round 1.
Oliver - If Gawn wasn't best afield it was because Oliver was. He has been circling my team all o***eason, liked what I saw. Did pick up a knock very early that had him limping for a minute but played through it and by the end I'd forgotten about it but for the note I took of it. My love of this midfield premium crop in SC this year has not diminished at all.
Hibberd - Shut Zurhaar down, almost felt sorry for him by the end of it between the pig and the total lack of supply!
Langdon - Rock solid on the wing.
Bowey - Solid off half back, don't expect a huge change from last year, some natural improvement but role will be constant.
Tomlinson - Good to see him back, hasn't missed a beat and was very good in KPD role.
Jordon - I didn't notice him early, seemed to come on in 2nd half (might have been a bit early) didn't get midfield time until late. Didn't do a lot.
Rivers - HB, solid, no signs of any kind of huge change here either.
McDonald - Very good up forward, roaming everywhere. Sneaky premium pick but think he caps out mid to high 90s so not my cup of tea.
Weideman - Didn't play until the last 10 or so minutes, rucked mostly, wasn't terrible.
ANB - Same old from him, really solid.
Sparrow - Enormous midfield minutes, I don't think he really took maximum advantage of it, he was good but that kind of role, in that team you want to be great and demand a spot. Would think he goes straight out when Viney comes in, cheap enough to at least pay attention to though.
Pickett - CBA numbers are grossly inflated, basically started each quarter there and then went straight forward and then copped 4 in the last few minutes when the Demons piled on late goals. He looked solid but saw nothing to suggest any change.
Chandler - Started forward and was solid, hard to see him knocking either of Spargo or Pickett out of the side but he's a good player.
Smith - Really solid game down back, will go out for Lever but strong depth provided.
Brown - Really strong game from him, wouldn't shock me if he had the highest SC score on the field, kicked I believe 5, could have easily been 9 or 10. Clunking it really well and looks way fitter. His performance probably the biggest positive for Petracca of this game.
Kangaroos - Always find it interesting when the wooden spoon team sacrifices a preseason game to be cute. I don't know if they just wanted to expose their kids to a boiling cauldron, wanted an excuse for if they got thrashed or what but not picking the guys they did was just plain odd. It's not like Simpkin, LDU and co are seasoned and couldn't use the hitout themselves, especially LDU. Not using Goldy in the ruck much was a really odd move also and a trend I'm not loving from them. Last year the one thing they did well was put players in positions to succeed, this year so far seems like they're trying the opposite, might work but it's gutsy.
Mahony - Small forward in a team that got smashed, he was pretty good considering that.
Stephenson - Flaky Stephenson appears to be fully back, just couldn't impact the contest at all from a roaming HF role.
Corr - I think he came off in the 3rd, not sure, as the camera was actually pretty hard to follow (way too zoomed most of the game, either in or out). He did nothing of note.
Taylor - I think there might be a player in there but I might be stretching it trying to find it. He, like Mahony, had little to work with, unlikely Mahony he also did nothing.
JHF - Really tough one to read, one of the guys with slightly inflated CBA stats, doubled down that the reason they were inflated was the clean clearances leading to goals on repeat. That said he did some really nice things, especially around clearances and when he found a bit of space. It's hard to take a lot of positives out of it, if he scored 60 I'd be pleasantly surprised, to be fair there were a few decent tackles that could get him there but neither high volume or quality in this one, although he showed more composure than most of the team.
Ziebell - Sloot role at HB, intercepting and kicking when he can, wouldn't shock me if he was the top SC scorer either. Was the same as early last year basically without Hall or anyone really to steal touches.
Scott - Seemed to be playing HB mostly, didn't notice him getting beaten defensively but if I was a Kangas fan I'd rather he doesn't try and touch the pill. Basically needs a class in the Kayne Turner Hippocratic oath "do no harm" school!
Polec - Played about a quarter and a half, the ball was on the opposite wing for about 90% of the first quarter. No idea how to read this, given basically every other senior player was rested for this game you could take it that way or you could take it that they'd seen enough and were done. I thought what he did was solid but his kicking let him down, to be fair the complete lack of targets up the ground sure didn't help and nor did a couple of hospital handballs and a really tough not 15 call. It's an incomplete mark but it's much more of a cross than a tick for a guy I would like to have a reason to pick.
Young - Yeah, wing is not his role. Just looked lost all game and somehow can't find space when playing there which given how submissive he is in the contest is not good. Surely he can't be best 22 right now.
Greenwood - Lot of CBA, not a lot of impact. It's odd that they used him so much given the other decisions lean towards exposing the kids. Was just a step off it and struggled to adapt to the fact his ruckmen were being schooled. He wasn't bad, just wasn't good. Probably an indication that they want him in there though but equally could be read as filling in given it's their two "inside" guys that were out.
Walker - Was really solid and had a lot of chances to play the ball... His kick-ins were both quick plays so not stealing from relevant guys.
Larkey - Welcome back to the AFL, after having a good time against his own team he got destroyed. Not sure he had a mark, think he kicked one goal but wouldn't be surprised if he had 5 or less touches for the game. Tough gig but he definitely needs help.
CCJ - They seem to think he's a ruckman, I don't get it, he was absolutely embarrassed by Gawn. The nicest thing you could say is he tried. To rub salt in the wound he left with a left knee injury in the 3rd and didn't return. He made sense as a forward recruit but he's quite clearly not a ruckman, at least not yet, and this is two weeks in a row they've chosen him over Goldy.
Goldstein - I don't get it, started at FF, spent most of the game at FF, the only times they were really competitive in the middle was when he was in there, he had basically all their genuinely clean clearances. I don't know why you wouldn't trade him last year if you're not going to play him, he's 100% still their best ruck and it's not even close. Another that kind of leans towards the "expose the kids to fire" theory, except he started as the 2nd ruck last week as well. It would be impossible to pick Xerri unsighted and CCJ on exposed form if they did win the #1 role because when they start getting embarrassed Goldy is there waiting but... I don't get AFL coaches, it's almost like self-sabotage is a prerequisite for the job
McKay - Was solid, seemed to be trying to get free to be the 3rd up as often as possible. Good player but going to get a lot of exposure if they keep going down this path!
Powell - Another that got a lot of CBA partly because he was so badly beaten while he was in there! Solid game but did nothing to demand selection and hard to see the role being as good.
Curtis - Came on at HT, I believe, and did a couple of nice things. Unfortunately he only did a couple of nice things which isn't much in a half fighting for a spot in the team. Had a beautiful tackle that ended up being a FA because AFL rules are stupid that would be his best highlight.
Thomas - Honestly, I don't know how I feel about his game. The biggest negative is he looked so unfit for the first 3 quarters, basically looked blown up, hands on knees from the 10 minute mark of each quarter and then out of nowhere he ran the game out better than anyone else putting some serious junk time points up (reckon he'd have gone close to 45DT in the 4th depending on how 4 or 5 "kind of" tackles got scored). He got plenty of it but mostly didn't use it well. He was cleaner than anyone else at clearances (either team) but after working hard to find space, hit no targets (not all his fault, the forwards were bad). I'm a huge fan of his but I can't help but get the "plays himself into shape" vibe from how he was moving in this one, just didn't look fit. Role was good, basically what I'd expect in the real stuff, played deeper forward than last year though and that's a concern as the supply is an issue. Another that I think I just put a dash next to rather than a tick or a cross. Be very interested to see how he scored because I'd describe it as a "very underwhelming" game from him, if you can get 80+ in those games it's a great sign given he can get 120+ in the good ones but if it's a 60 type score, it hurts. Did pressure better than others in the team which was good.
Bergman - Another who played limited minutes I think or just went missing. Couple of nice things but not a lot of chances.
Turner - Solid in defense, just does the job, stays out of the way.
Phillips - The role was there, the ball winning was not, tackled decently. Another I'd have liked to see ticking boxes but he just plain didn't. Especially given he's fighting for a midfield role. A lot like Sparrow for the Demons, he needs to be outstanding in these chances to get into the rotation in the real stuff. Would need to see something very different next week to pick him. A firm x next to his name for this game.
Goater - Came on in the 2nd half, did some nice things. Like so many, didn't do enough to really make me think he gets picked round 1. Hard to read whether the kids aren't good enough or aren't desperate enough, they really don't seem to understand that they're playing for spots based on how they played (this is general rather than specifically at Goater). Wanted to see more given the amount of chances down back.
Edwards - Came on and did some nice things in the 4th, including a beautiful first tap. He moves well and looks good by foot. He showed more in a quarter as a ruck than CCJ did in 3 for mine and I can't say he showed much. If he's playing ahead of Goldy then the Kangas should be losing the draft pick for tanking.
Walker - Thought he was really good. Played on a wing, especially after Polec was done for the day, and did some nice things. Showed composure which was rarer than hen's teeth for the Kangas. Didn't get enough of it and I'm not sure he played all 4 quarters as I can't remember noticing him late but he showed more than Young for mine if the wing battle is open.
Lazzaro - HF with a bit of mid time, especially late. He was really solid. Cheap enough to at least be watched next week, would like more midfield time but his ability to actually do something forward is definitely in his favour over some of the other younger guys who can't.
Hayden - Think he only played the first half, another who certainly didn't help his case for a round 1 spot. I don't know, maybe my expectations on the fringe guys is unrealistic but there just wasn't that level of desperation that you'd hope to see.
Ford - On very late, didn't get much of a chance. Probably an indicator where he's at.
Zurhaar - Poor guy. One of the few whose effort can't be questioned but the supply and chances were just putrid and Hibberd is such a bad matchup for him. Still looks to be making it to more contests than in years past.
Mahony - Small forward in a team that got smashed, he was pretty good considering that.
Stephenson - Flaky Stephenson appears to be fully back, just couldn't impact the contest at all from a roaming HF role.
Corr - I think he came off in the 3rd, not sure, as the camera was actually pretty hard to follow (way too zoomed most of the game, either in or out). He did nothing of note.
Taylor - I think there might be a player in there but I might be stretching it trying to find it. He, like Mahony, had little to work with, unlikely Mahony he also did nothing.
JHF - Really tough one to read, one of the guys with slightly inflated CBA stats, doubled down that the reason they were inflated was the clean clearances leading to goals on repeat. That said he did some really nice things, especially around clearances and when he found a bit of space. It's hard to take a lot of positives out of it, if he scored 60 I'd be pleasantly surprised, to be fair there were a few decent tackles that could get him there but neither high volume or quality in this one, although he showed more composure than most of the team.
Ziebell - Sloot role at HB, intercepting and kicking when he can, wouldn't shock me if he was the top SC scorer either. Was the same as early last year basically without Hall or anyone really to steal touches.
Scott - Seemed to be playing HB mostly, didn't notice him getting beaten defensively but if I was a Kangas fan I'd rather he doesn't try and touch the pill. Basically needs a class in the Kayne Turner Hippocratic oath "do no harm" school!
Polec - Played about a quarter and a half, the ball was on the opposite wing for about 90% of the first quarter. No idea how to read this, given basically every other senior player was rested for this game you could take it that way or you could take it that they'd seen enough and were done. I thought what he did was solid but his kicking let him down, to be fair the complete lack of targets up the ground sure didn't help and nor did a couple of hospital handballs and a really tough not 15 call. It's an incomplete mark but it's much more of a cross than a tick for a guy I would like to have a reason to pick.
Young - Yeah, wing is not his role. Just looked lost all game and somehow can't find space when playing there which given how submissive he is in the contest is not good. Surely he can't be best 22 right now.
Greenwood - Lot of CBA, not a lot of impact. It's odd that they used him so much given the other decisions lean towards exposing the kids. Was just a step off it and struggled to adapt to the fact his ruckmen were being schooled. He wasn't bad, just wasn't good. Probably an indication that they want him in there though but equally could be read as filling in given it's their two "inside" guys that were out.
Walker - Was really solid and had a lot of chances to play the ball... His kick-ins were both quick plays so not stealing from relevant guys.
Larkey - Welcome back to the AFL, after having a good time against his own team he got destroyed. Not sure he had a mark, think he kicked one goal but wouldn't be surprised if he had 5 or less touches for the game. Tough gig but he definitely needs help.
CCJ - They seem to think he's a ruckman, I don't get it, he was absolutely embarrassed by Gawn. The nicest thing you could say is he tried. To rub salt in the wound he left with a left knee injury in the 3rd and didn't return. He made sense as a forward recruit but he's quite clearly not a ruckman, at least not yet, and this is two weeks in a row they've chosen him over Goldy.
Goldstein - I don't get it, started at FF, spent most of the game at FF, the only times they were really competitive in the middle was when he was in there, he had basically all their genuinely clean clearances. I don't know why you wouldn't trade him last year if you're not going to play him, he's 100% still their best ruck and it's not even close. Another that kind of leans towards the "expose the kids to fire" theory, except he started as the 2nd ruck last week as well. It would be impossible to pick Xerri unsighted and CCJ on exposed form if they did win the #1 role because when they start getting embarrassed Goldy is there waiting but... I don't get AFL coaches, it's almost like self-sabotage is a prerequisite for the job
McKay - Was solid, seemed to be trying to get free to be the 3rd up as often as possible. Good player but going to get a lot of exposure if they keep going down this path!
Powell - Another that got a lot of CBA partly because he was so badly beaten while he was in there! Solid game but did nothing to demand selection and hard to see the role being as good.
Curtis - Came on at HT, I believe, and did a couple of nice things. Unfortunately he only did a couple of nice things which isn't much in a half fighting for a spot in the team. Had a beautiful tackle that ended up being a FA because AFL rules are stupid that would be his best highlight.
Thomas - Honestly, I don't know how I feel about his game. The biggest negative is he looked so unfit for the first 3 quarters, basically looked blown up, hands on knees from the 10 minute mark of each quarter and then out of nowhere he ran the game out better than anyone else putting some serious junk time points up (reckon he'd have gone close to 45DT in the 4th depending on how 4 or 5 "kind of" tackles got scored). He got plenty of it but mostly didn't use it well. He was cleaner than anyone else at clearances (either team) but after working hard to find space, hit no targets (not all his fault, the forwards were bad). I'm a huge fan of his but I can't help but get the "plays himself into shape" vibe from how he was moving in this one, just didn't look fit. Role was good, basically what I'd expect in the real stuff, played deeper forward than last year though and that's a concern as the supply is an issue. Another that I think I just put a dash next to rather than a tick or a cross. Be very interested to see how he scored because I'd describe it as a "very underwhelming" game from him, if you can get 80+ in those games it's a great sign given he can get 120+ in the good ones but if it's a 60 type score, it hurts. Did pressure better than others in the team which was good.
Bergman - Another who played limited minutes I think or just went missing. Couple of nice things but not a lot of chances.
Turner - Solid in defense, just does the job, stays out of the way.
Phillips - The role was there, the ball winning was not, tackled decently. Another I'd have liked to see ticking boxes but he just plain didn't. Especially given he's fighting for a midfield role. A lot like Sparrow for the Demons, he needs to be outstanding in these chances to get into the rotation in the real stuff. Would need to see something very different next week to pick him. A firm x next to his name for this game.
Goater - Came on in the 2nd half, did some nice things. Like so many, didn't do enough to really make me think he gets picked round 1. Hard to read whether the kids aren't good enough or aren't desperate enough, they really don't seem to understand that they're playing for spots based on how they played (this is general rather than specifically at Goater). Wanted to see more given the amount of chances down back.
Edwards - Came on and did some nice things in the 4th, including a beautiful first tap. He moves well and looks good by foot. He showed more in a quarter as a ruck than CCJ did in 3 for mine and I can't say he showed much. If he's playing ahead of Goldy then the Kangas should be losing the draft pick for tanking.
Walker - Thought he was really good. Played on a wing, especially after Polec was done for the day, and did some nice things. Showed composure which was rarer than hen's teeth for the Kangas. Didn't get enough of it and I'm not sure he played all 4 quarters as I can't remember noticing him late but he showed more than Young for mine if the wing battle is open.
Lazzaro - HF with a bit of mid time, especially late. He was really solid. Cheap enough to at least be watched next week, would like more midfield time but his ability to actually do something forward is definitely in his favour over some of the other younger guys who can't.
Hayden - Think he only played the first half, another who certainly didn't help his case for a round 1 spot. I don't know, maybe my expectations on the fringe guys is unrealistic but there just wasn't that level of desperation that you'd hope to see.
Ford - On very late, didn't get much of a chance. Probably an indicator where he's at.
Zurhaar - Poor guy. One of the few whose effort can't be questioned but the supply and chances were just putrid and Hibberd is such a bad matchup for him. Still looks to be making it to more contests than in years past.
Thought he struggled when actually out there, hes a weird one as he has all the athletic traits but doesnt actually have the height or strength as most AFL level Ruck/Forwards, not sure how he gets a spot in their best 22 either, honestly think Campbell would be ahead of him after that game and he's behind Ryder and Marshall himself.
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Kangaroos - Always find it interesting when the wooden spoon team sacrifices a preseason game to be cute. I don't know if they just wanted to expose their kids to a boiling cauldron, wanted an excuse for if they got thrashed or what but not picking the guys they did was just plain odd. It's not like Simpkin, LDU and co are seasoned and couldn't use the hitout themselves, especially LDU. Not using Goldy in the ruck much was a really odd move also and a trend I'm not loving from them. Last year the one thing they did well was put players in positions to succeed, this year so far seems like they're trying the opposite, might work but it's gutsy.
Mahony - Small forward in a team that got smashed, he was pretty good considering that.
Stephenson - Flaky Stephenson appears to be fully back, just couldn't impact the contest at all from a roaming HF role.
Corr - I think he came off in the 3rd, not sure, as the camera was actually pretty hard to follow (way too zoomed most of the game, either in or out). He did nothing of note.
Taylor - I think there might be a player in there but I might be stretching it trying to find it. He, like Mahony, had little to work with, unlikely Mahony he also did nothing.
JHF - Really tough one to read, one of the guys with slightly inflated CBA stats, doubled down that the reason they were inflated was the clean clearances leading to goals on repeat. That said he did some really nice things, especially around clearances and when he found a bit of space. It's hard to take a lot of positives out of it, if he scored 60 I'd be pleasantly surprised, to be fair there were a few decent tackles that could get him there but neither high volume or quality in this one, although he showed more composure than most of the team.
Ziebell - Sloot role at HB, intercepting and kicking when he can, wouldn't shock me if he was the top SC scorer either. Was the same as early last year basically without Hall or anyone really to steal touches.
Scott - Seemed to be playing HB mostly, didn't notice him getting beaten defensively but if I was a Kangas fan I'd rather he doesn't try and touch the pill. Basically needs a class in the Kayne Turner Hippocratic oath "do no harm" school!
Polec - Played about a quarter and a half, the ball was on the opposite wing for about 90% of the first quarter. No idea how to read this, given basically every other senior player was rested for this game you could take it that way or you could take it that they'd seen enough and were done. I thought what he did was solid but his kicking let him down, to be fair the complete lack of targets up the ground sure didn't help and nor did a couple of hospital handballs and a really tough not 15 call. It's an incomplete mark but it's much more of a cross than a tick for a guy I would like to have a reason to pick.
Young - Yeah, wing is not his role. Just looked lost all game and somehow can't find space when playing there which given how submissive he is in the contest is not good. Surely he can't be best 22 right now.
Greenwood - Lot of CBA, not a lot of impact. It's odd that they used him so much given the other decisions lean towards exposing the kids. Was just a step off it and struggled to adapt to the fact his ruckmen were being schooled. He wasn't bad, just wasn't good. Probably an indication that they want him in there though but equally could be read as filling in given it's their two "inside" guys that were out.
Walker - Was really solid and had a lot of chances to play the ball... His kick-ins were both quick plays so not stealing from relevant guys.
Larkey - Welcome back to the AFL, after having a good time against his own team he got destroyed. Not sure he had a mark, think he kicked one goal but wouldn't be surprised if he had 5 or less touches for the game. Tough gig but he definitely needs help.
CCJ - They seem to think he's a ruckman, I don't get it, he was absolutely embarrassed by Gawn. The nicest thing you could say is he tried. To rub salt in the wound he left with a left knee injury in the 3rd and didn't return. He made sense as a forward recruit but he's quite clearly not a ruckman, at least not yet, and this is two weeks in a row they've chosen him over Goldy.
Goldstein - I don't get it, started at FF, spent most of the game at FF, the only times they were really competitive in the middle was when he was in there, he had basically all their genuinely clean clearances. I don't know why you wouldn't trade him last year if you're not going to play him, he's 100% still their best ruck and it's not even close. Another that kind of leans towards the "expose the kids to fire" theory, except he started as the 2nd ruck last week as well. It would be impossible to pick Xerri unsighted and CCJ on exposed form if they did win the #1 role because when they start getting embarrassed Goldy is there waiting but... I don't get AFL coaches, it's almost like self-sabotage is a prerequisite for the job
McKay - Was solid, seemed to be trying to get free to be the 3rd up as often as possible. Good player but going to get a lot of exposure if they keep going down this path!
Powell - Another that got a lot of CBA partly because he was so badly beaten while he was in there! Solid game but did nothing to demand selection and hard to see the role being as good.
Curtis - Came on at HT, I believe, and did a couple of nice things. Unfortunately he only did a couple of nice things which isn't much in a half fighting for a spot in the team. Had a beautiful tackle that ended up being a FA because AFL rules are stupid that would be his best highlight.
Thomas - Honestly, I don't know how I feel about his game. The biggest negative is he looked so unfit for the first 3 quarters, basically looked blown up, hands on knees from the 10 minute mark of each quarter and then out of nowhere he ran the game out better than anyone else putting some serious junk time points up (reckon he'd have gone close to 45DT in the 4th depending on how 4 or 5 "kind of" tackles got scored). He got plenty of it but mostly didn't use it well. He was cleaner than anyone else at clearances (either team) but after working hard to find space, hit no targets (not all his fault, the forwards were bad). I'm a huge fan of his but I can't help but get the "plays himself into shape" vibe from how he was moving in this one, just didn't look fit. Role was good, basically what I'd expect in the real stuff, played deeper forward than last year though and that's a concern as the supply is an issue. Another that I think I just put a dash next to rather than a tick or a cross. Be very interested to see how he scored because I'd describe it as a "very underwhelming" game from him, if you can get 80+ in those games it's a great sign given he can get 120+ in the good ones but if it's a 60 type score, it hurts. Did pressure better than others in the team which was good.
Bergman - Another who played limited minutes I think or just went missing. Couple of nice things but not a lot of chances.
Turner - Solid in defense, just does the job, stays out of the way.
Phillips - The role was there, the ball winning was not, tackled decently. Another I'd have liked to see ticking boxes but he just plain didn't. Especially given he's fighting for a midfield role. A lot like Sparrow for the Demons, he needs to be outstanding in these chances to get into the rotation in the real stuff. Would need to see something very different next week to pick him. A firm x next to his name for this game.
Goater - Came on in the 2nd half, did some nice things. Like so many, didn't do enough to really make me think he gets picked round 1. Hard to read whether the kids aren't good enough or aren't desperate enough, they really don't seem to understand that they're playing for spots based on how they played (this is general rather than specifically at Goater). Wanted to see more given the amount of chances down back.
Edwards - Came on and did some nice things in the 4th, including a beautiful first tap. He moves well and looks good by foot. He showed more in a quarter as a ruck than CCJ did in 3 for mine and I can't say he showed much. If he's playing ahead of Goldy then the Kangas should be losing the draft pick for tanking.
Walker - Thought he was really good. Played on a wing, especially after Polec was done for the day, and did some nice things. Showed composure which was rarer than hen's teeth for the Kangas. Didn't get enough of it and I'm not sure he played all 4 quarters as I can't remember noticing him late but he showed more than Young for mine if the wing battle is open.
Lazzaro - HF with a bit of mid time, especially late. He was really solid. Cheap enough to at least be watched next week, would like more midfield time but his ability to actually do something forward is definitely in his favour over some of the other younger guys who can't.
Hayden - Think he only played the first half, another who certainly didn't help his case for a round 1 spot. I don't know, maybe my expectations on the fringe guys is unrealistic but there just wasn't that level of desperation that you'd hope to see.
Ford - On very late, didn't get much of a chance. Probably an indicator where he's at.
Zurhaar - Poor guy. One of the few whose effort can't be questioned but the supply and chances were just putrid and Hibberd is such a bad matchup for him. Still looks to be making it to more contests than in years past.
Mahony - Small forward in a team that got smashed, he was pretty good considering that.
Stephenson - Flaky Stephenson appears to be fully back, just couldn't impact the contest at all from a roaming HF role.
Corr - I think he came off in the 3rd, not sure, as the camera was actually pretty hard to follow (way too zoomed most of the game, either in or out). He did nothing of note.
Taylor - I think there might be a player in there but I might be stretching it trying to find it. He, like Mahony, had little to work with, unlikely Mahony he also did nothing.
JHF - Really tough one to read, one of the guys with slightly inflated CBA stats, doubled down that the reason they were inflated was the clean clearances leading to goals on repeat. That said he did some really nice things, especially around clearances and when he found a bit of space. It's hard to take a lot of positives out of it, if he scored 60 I'd be pleasantly surprised, to be fair there were a few decent tackles that could get him there but neither high volume or quality in this one, although he showed more composure than most of the team.
Ziebell - Sloot role at HB, intercepting and kicking when he can, wouldn't shock me if he was the top SC scorer either. Was the same as early last year basically without Hall or anyone really to steal touches.
Scott - Seemed to be playing HB mostly, didn't notice him getting beaten defensively but if I was a Kangas fan I'd rather he doesn't try and touch the pill. Basically needs a class in the Kayne Turner Hippocratic oath "do no harm" school!
Polec - Played about a quarter and a half, the ball was on the opposite wing for about 90% of the first quarter. No idea how to read this, given basically every other senior player was rested for this game you could take it that way or you could take it that they'd seen enough and were done. I thought what he did was solid but his kicking let him down, to be fair the complete lack of targets up the ground sure didn't help and nor did a couple of hospital handballs and a really tough not 15 call. It's an incomplete mark but it's much more of a cross than a tick for a guy I would like to have a reason to pick.
Young - Yeah, wing is not his role. Just looked lost all game and somehow can't find space when playing there which given how submissive he is in the contest is not good. Surely he can't be best 22 right now.
Greenwood - Lot of CBA, not a lot of impact. It's odd that they used him so much given the other decisions lean towards exposing the kids. Was just a step off it and struggled to adapt to the fact his ruckmen were being schooled. He wasn't bad, just wasn't good. Probably an indication that they want him in there though but equally could be read as filling in given it's their two "inside" guys that were out.
Walker - Was really solid and had a lot of chances to play the ball... His kick-ins were both quick plays so not stealing from relevant guys.
Larkey - Welcome back to the AFL, after having a good time against his own team he got destroyed. Not sure he had a mark, think he kicked one goal but wouldn't be surprised if he had 5 or less touches for the game. Tough gig but he definitely needs help.
CCJ - They seem to think he's a ruckman, I don't get it, he was absolutely embarrassed by Gawn. The nicest thing you could say is he tried. To rub salt in the wound he left with a left knee injury in the 3rd and didn't return. He made sense as a forward recruit but he's quite clearly not a ruckman, at least not yet, and this is two weeks in a row they've chosen him over Goldy.
Goldstein - I don't get it, started at FF, spent most of the game at FF, the only times they were really competitive in the middle was when he was in there, he had basically all their genuinely clean clearances. I don't know why you wouldn't trade him last year if you're not going to play him, he's 100% still their best ruck and it's not even close. Another that kind of leans towards the "expose the kids to fire" theory, except he started as the 2nd ruck last week as well. It would be impossible to pick Xerri unsighted and CCJ on exposed form if they did win the #1 role because when they start getting embarrassed Goldy is there waiting but... I don't get AFL coaches, it's almost like self-sabotage is a prerequisite for the job
McKay - Was solid, seemed to be trying to get free to be the 3rd up as often as possible. Good player but going to get a lot of exposure if they keep going down this path!
Powell - Another that got a lot of CBA partly because he was so badly beaten while he was in there! Solid game but did nothing to demand selection and hard to see the role being as good.
Curtis - Came on at HT, I believe, and did a couple of nice things. Unfortunately he only did a couple of nice things which isn't much in a half fighting for a spot in the team. Had a beautiful tackle that ended up being a FA because AFL rules are stupid that would be his best highlight.
Thomas - Honestly, I don't know how I feel about his game. The biggest negative is he looked so unfit for the first 3 quarters, basically looked blown up, hands on knees from the 10 minute mark of each quarter and then out of nowhere he ran the game out better than anyone else putting some serious junk time points up (reckon he'd have gone close to 45DT in the 4th depending on how 4 or 5 "kind of" tackles got scored). He got plenty of it but mostly didn't use it well. He was cleaner than anyone else at clearances (either team) but after working hard to find space, hit no targets (not all his fault, the forwards were bad). I'm a huge fan of his but I can't help but get the "plays himself into shape" vibe from how he was moving in this one, just didn't look fit. Role was good, basically what I'd expect in the real stuff, played deeper forward than last year though and that's a concern as the supply is an issue. Another that I think I just put a dash next to rather than a tick or a cross. Be very interested to see how he scored because I'd describe it as a "very underwhelming" game from him, if you can get 80+ in those games it's a great sign given he can get 120+ in the good ones but if it's a 60 type score, it hurts. Did pressure better than others in the team which was good.
Bergman - Another who played limited minutes I think or just went missing. Couple of nice things but not a lot of chances.
Turner - Solid in defense, just does the job, stays out of the way.
Phillips - The role was there, the ball winning was not, tackled decently. Another I'd have liked to see ticking boxes but he just plain didn't. Especially given he's fighting for a midfield role. A lot like Sparrow for the Demons, he needs to be outstanding in these chances to get into the rotation in the real stuff. Would need to see something very different next week to pick him. A firm x next to his name for this game.
Goater - Came on in the 2nd half, did some nice things. Like so many, didn't do enough to really make me think he gets picked round 1. Hard to read whether the kids aren't good enough or aren't desperate enough, they really don't seem to understand that they're playing for spots based on how they played (this is general rather than specifically at Goater). Wanted to see more given the amount of chances down back.
Edwards - Came on and did some nice things in the 4th, including a beautiful first tap. He moves well and looks good by foot. He showed more in a quarter as a ruck than CCJ did in 3 for mine and I can't say he showed much. If he's playing ahead of Goldy then the Kangas should be losing the draft pick for tanking.
Walker - Thought he was really good. Played on a wing, especially after Polec was done for the day, and did some nice things. Showed composure which was rarer than hen's teeth for the Kangas. Didn't get enough of it and I'm not sure he played all 4 quarters as I can't remember noticing him late but he showed more than Young for mine if the wing battle is open.
Lazzaro - HF with a bit of mid time, especially late. He was really solid. Cheap enough to at least be watched next week, would like more midfield time but his ability to actually do something forward is definitely in his favour over some of the other younger guys who can't.
Hayden - Think he only played the first half, another who certainly didn't help his case for a round 1 spot. I don't know, maybe my expectations on the fringe guys is unrealistic but there just wasn't that level of desperation that you'd hope to see.
Ford - On very late, didn't get much of a chance. Probably an indicator where he's at.
Zurhaar - Poor guy. One of the few whose effort can't be questioned but the supply and chances were just putrid and Hibberd is such a bad matchup for him. Still looks to be making it to more contests than in years past.
Sensational post, man. I agree with pretty much all of it.
Just on Kemp, he can clearly play forward but wasn't he recruited as a back? His highlights package on youtube has him back. Therefore, his competition would be Marchbank and McGovern I'd have thought, with Weitering being a lock.
He's clearly behind McKay/Curnow/Silvagni up forward but there seems to be a bit of a chance of injury up there at the moment. Good to know he has the forward string in his bow.
Just on Kemp, he can clearly play forward but wasn't he recruited as a back? His highlights package on youtube has him back. Therefore, his competition would be Marchbank and McGovern I'd have thought, with Weitering being a lock.
He's clearly behind McKay/Curnow/Silvagni up forward but there seems to be a bit of a chance of injury up there at the moment. Good to know he has the forward string in his bow.
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As a junior he literally played everywhere, inside mid, intercepting back, even swung forward and won a championships game off his own boot.
They’ve trained him as a second/third tall defender since arriving at the Blues. The McGovern switch back doesn’t help initially, and the McKay injury seems to have prompted the switch forward out of necessity more than anything due to the lack of other options.
Whilst the stats won’t be overly impressive, I reckon internally at the Blues they’d be absolutely stoked with what he produced yesterday. Lead up at the footy really well, threw his body around, brought it to ground when he was slightly out of position against the more mature body of Wilkie. Hopefully another decent showing next week is enough to see him slot into the round one 22, at either end of the ground.
They’ve trained him as a second/third tall defender since arriving at the Blues. The McGovern switch back doesn’t help initially, and the McKay injury seems to have prompted the switch forward out of necessity more than anything due to the lack of other options.
Whilst the stats won’t be overly impressive, I reckon internally at the Blues they’d be absolutely stoked with what he produced yesterday. Lead up at the footy really well, threw his body around, brought it to ground when he was slightly out of position against the more mature body of Wilkie. Hopefully another decent showing next week is enough to see him slot into the round one 22, at either end of the ground.