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[Professor]

Fremantle v Port Adelaide

Connor Rozee in action against the Dockers on Thursday night. Picture: James Worsfold/AFL Photos
Connor Rozee ($513,800 Fwd) confirmed his credentials as a top-six KFC SuperCoach forward against the Dockers, tallying 25 disposals, 11 contested possessions, seven clearances and 111 points. The Port Adelaide young gun spent most of his time through the midfield and was at the restart of play in the centre for every quarter. High-profile recruit Jason Horne-Francis ($348,800 Mid-Fwd) recorded an equal-game-high nine clangers, but still showed his scoring potential with 70 points, on the back of 21 disposals and six tackles. The performance of mid-price ruckman Scott Lycett ($429,900 Ruck),however, would’ve put a few risk-taking KFC SuperCoaches off. With Charlie Dixon featuring in the ruck in the second half, and Brynn Teakle on for the odd contest, the 30-year-old finished with just 36 points in 60 per cent game-time.

For the Dockers, last year’s breakout star Will Brodie ($563,600 Mid) picked up where he left off, tallying an equal-game-high 36 disposals, 16 contested possessions and 117 points. Popular midfield premium Andrew Brayshaw ($615,600 Mid) was right there with him, finishing with 36 touches of his own. But just six contested possessions and nine clangers saw his final KFC SuperCoach score reduced to 84. Bargain forward Nat Fyfe ($313,600 Fwd-Mid) booted three goals on his way to 90 points, while Sean Darcy ($562,200 Ruck) KFC SuperCoaches a reminder, tallying 127 points – Luke Jackson didn’t play, though.

Fremantle v Port Adelaide KFC SuperCoach scores
FREMANTLE PORT ADELAIDE Brennan Cox130Miles Bergman119Sean Darcy127Connor Rozee111Will Brodie117Xavier Duursma86Nathan Wilson92Ryan Burton81Josh Treacy91Sam Powell-Pepper78Nat Fyfe90Willem Drew73Jordan Clark88Dan Houston72Caleb Serong86Ollie Wines70Andrew Brayshaw84Jason Horne-Francis70Bailey Banfield82Kane Farrell69Alex Pearce81Darcy Byrne-Jones68Jaeger O'Meara80Zak Butters67Sam Sturt80Tom Jonas60Hayden Young79Aliir Aliir54Ethan Hughes78Francis Evans52Liam Henry75Todd Marshall52Matt Taberner74Charlie Dixon50Sam Switkowski66Orazio Fantasia48Heath Chapman59Lachie Jones44James Aish53Trent McKenzie37Brandon Walker45Scott Lycett36Lachie Schultz43Jase Burgoyne36Matthew Johnson9Mitch Georgiades20 Jed McEntee18 Riley Bonner8 Brynn Teakle8

Cam Mackenzie breaks a Nick Daicos tackle in Launceston. Picture: Steve Bell/Getty Images
Hawthorn v Collingwood
Nick Daicos ($502,500 Def) is on the fast-track to AFL stardom, but it’s not always an easy path – even in the pre-season. Sam Mitchell sent Finn Maginness to the Rising Star winner and the stopper held him to 17 disposals and 72 points. The good news for Daicos is the two won’t meet again until the Hawks and Pies face off in round 21. Jordan De Goey ($468,700 Mid) top-scored in the game with 120 points and Tom Mitchell ($528,600 Mid) rebounded from a quiet first outing in black and white, winning 28 disposals (17 contested) and 101 points, while Darcy Cameron ($465,900 Ruck-Fwd) scored 97 sharing the ruck duties with Mason Cox.

For the Hawks James Worpel ($309,300 Mid) starred in the clinches (30 disposals, 101 points) but the real eye-catcher was No.7 draft pick Cam Mackenzie ($180,300 Mid). The young gun put his name up in lights as a midfield rookie option with some big centre clearances, 24 touches and 99 points. If you don’t have mature-age rookie Fergus Greene (84 points – $123,900 Fwd) in your forward line, stop reading right now and put him on your bench. James Sicily ($624,700 Def) recovered from a slow start, scoring just 11 points in the first quarter but finishing with 96, showing he’ll be one of the top defenders again in 2023.

Hawthorn v Collingwood KFC SuperCoach scores
James Worpel101Jordan De Goey120Cam Mackenzie99Jack Crisp111James Sicily96Josh Daicos105Josh Ward93Tom Mitchell101Jai Newcombe92Taylor Adams100Connor Macdonald89Darcy Moore98Karl Amon89Darcy Cameron97Will Day88Patrick Lipinski93Fergus Greene84John Noble 84Lachie Bramble75Nick Daicos72Changkuoth Jiath71Brody Mihocek66Dylan Moore70Jamie Elliott65Lloyd Meek66Isaac Quaynor58Jarman Impey60Nathan Murphy54Jacob Koschitzke57Bobby Hill51Chad Wingard56Mason Cox50Conor Nash53Steele Sidebottom49James Blanck49Scott Pendlebury 48Luke Breust45Billy Frampton46Finn Maginness45Will Hoskin-Elliott42Ned Reeves38Reef McInnes38Henry Hustwaite34Jeremy Howe32Sam Frost31Oleg Markov32Blake Hardwick17Dan McStay29Sam Butler17Josh Carmichael18Denver Grainger-Barras9Beau McCreery16

 

[Russty_]

St Kilda v Essendon
KFC SuperCoaches have at least one ruckman they can bank on this season: Rowan Marshall.

The Saints put a rubber stamp on his status as the No.1 ruck buy after a dominant display, top-scoring with 155 points from 24 disposals, 19 contested possessions, 18 hitouts and a goal up against mid-priced ruck option Sam Draper (80)

Bomber star defender Jordan Ridley put his hand up as an option in defence with a game-high 12 marks, 27 disposals and 118 points in a performance that had shades of his stunning 2021 season.

Rowan Marshall was everywhere. Picture: Michael Klein
And if you’re after a mid-priced punt, Nasiah Wanganeen-Milera (91 points, 20 kicks) and Will Setterfield (119 points, 25 disposals) put in strong displays, while it was business as usual for Zach Merrett who tallied 23 disposals and 112 points.

But owners of top-priced defender Jack Sinclair (59) and midfield premiums Jack Steele (84 and nine tackles) and Darcy Parish (51) would be concerned after disappointing returns.

Sinclair managed 20 disposals but didn’t take as many kick-ins as expected, especially considering the Bombers booted behinds for the match, while Steele (17 disposals) was helped by nine tackles.

Parish only had 69 per cent gametime but was kept to a paltry 10 disposals by tagger Jack Bytel, who came on in the first term after forward mid-priced pick Marcus Windhager broke his wrist.

Bytel, 22, is a cheapie to consider at $158,600 after Windhager’s blow, winning 16 disposals, seven tackles and scoring 73 points.

Another rookie to impress was Alwyn Davey, who was busy early and showed plenty of signs of class as he finished with 13 disposals, a goal and 67 points, while Jye Menzie still managed to post 62 from nine touches after laying six tackles.

Top-10 pick Mattaes Phillipou slotted a goal and looked dangerous despite finishing with six clangers and 52 points as supplemental selection signing Anthony Caminiti (41 points) – priced at $102,400 – put himself in contention for round 1 with some promising moments.

St Kilda v Essendon KFC SuperCoach scores
ST KILDA Rowan Marshall155Jordan Ridley128Mason Wood128Will Setterfield119Mitch Owens121Zach Merrett112Brad Crouch106Andrew McGrath105Jack Higgins93Nic Martin83Nasiah Wanganeen-Milera91Sam Draper80Jack Steele84Massimo D'Ambrosio80Callum Wilkie83Jake Kelly78Josh Battle82Mason Redman73Dan Butler80Sam Durham71Hunter Clark78Alwyn Davey Jnr67Liam Stocker76Dylan Shiel67Jack Bytel75Jayden Laverde65Jade Gresham73Brandon Zerk-Thatcher65Ben Paton60Peter Wright64Ryan Byrnes60Jye Menzie62Jack Sinclair59Darcy Parish54Mattaes Phillipou53Archie Perkins53Dougal Howard52Sam Weideman35Zaine Cordy46Jye Caldwell35Jimmy Webster42Anthony McDonald-Tipungwuti27Anthony Caminiti40Harrison Jones18Marcus Windhager0Will Snelling16 Kaine Baldwin8

Brisbane v Geelong

Will Ashcroft breaks away during the practice match against the Cats. Picture: Bradley Kanaris/Getty Images
Young gun Will Ashcroft ($202,800 Mid) proved, again, he is more than ready to go, showing his class around the ball and finishing with 26 disposals and 96 points against the Cats. Josh Dunkley ($596,400 Mid-Fwd) recorded game-high contested possessions (19) and KFC SuperCoach points (146) in his first official appearance as a Lion, while Hugh McCluggage ($570,800 Mid) did some heavy lifting of his own on the inside, tallying 17 contested possessions and 134 points. There was no clear winner in the KFC SuperCoach rookie-price battle between Connor McKenna (53 points – $167,500 Def) and Darcy Wilmot (52 points – $123,900 Def), however, with both cheapie options enjoying some nice moments but also fading in and out of the game. Can we still pick them both?

On the other side in the midfield, former Giant Tanner Bruhn ($311,400 Mid-Fwd) featured heavily in Geelong’s centre-bounce rotation and finished with 19 disposals, 11 contested possessions, seven tackles, five clearances and 112 points, giving KFC SuperCoaches another mid-price option to think about. After putting his name in the mid-price ring during last week’s clash with the Hawks, Max Holmes (69 points – $360,600 Mid) won some more ball through the middle again, without having a huge impact. Esava Ratugolea ($174,000 Ruck-Fwd) was the big talking point out of that first game but, while he took a few nice intercept marks, tallied just 10 disposals and 49 points, and copped a Eric Hipwood elbow to the face.

Brisbane v Geelong KFC SuperCoach scores
BRISBANE GEELONG Josh Dunkley146Tanner Bruhn112Hugh McCluggage134Cameron Guthrie101Harris Andrews129Gryan Miers97Lachie Neale121Tom Stewart91Zac Bailey106Tom Atkins85Will Ashcroft96Tyson Stengle81Brandon Starcevich86Gary Rohan78Jack Payne84Brandan Parfitt71Keidean Coleman79Zach Guthrie70Joe Daniher73Max Holmes69Jack Gunston68Patrick Dangerfield61Oscar McInerney67Jonathon Ceglar61Charlie Cameron61Mark O'Connor60Jaxon Prior60Esava Ratugolea49Daniel Rich57Brad Close49Cam Rayner57Oliver Dempsey49Deven Robertson57Rhys Stanley47Lincoln McCarthy56Jed Bews44James Tunstill54Zach Tuohy44Conor McKenna53Sam Simpson43Darcy Wilmot52Sam De Koning38Eric Hipwood50Cooper Whyte38Darcy Fort48Jake Kolodjashnij25Nakia Cockatoo7Oliver Henry24Darragh Joyce6 Harry Sharp5

Thanks Jim! you are legend.

 

[Professor]

Thanks Jim! you are legend.

All good happy to post.

 

[dlanod]

On the other side in the midfield, former Giant Tanner Bruhn ($311,400 Mid-Fwd) featured heavily in Geelong’s centre-bounce rotation and finished with 19 disposals, 11 contested possessions, seven tackles, five clearances and 112 points, giving KFC SuperCoaches another mid-price option to think about.

That's actually mildly concerning. He got just about the best possible opportunity, Scott stashed Danger and others off the ball, he had a fair bit of impact, and only put together 110 points.

 

[Borris]

That's actually mildly concerning. He got just about the best possible opportunity, Scott stashed Danger and others off the ball, he had a fair bit of impact, and only put together 110 points.

Another way of looking at it:
He hit the ton through only 19 disposals. ie Doesn’t need lots of it to score well

 

[Spifflicator]

Another way of looking at it:
He hit the ton through only 19 disposals. ie Doesn’t need lots of it to score well

He laid 7 tackles from memory, something he wasn't keen on doing at the Giants. His minutes through the middle will suffer when the Captain comes back in. At over $300k I cant see the value, when there are similar options priced at $250k or less.

 

[Gruffles]

That's actually mildly concerning. He got just about the best possible opportunity, Scott stashed Danger and others off the ball, he had a fair bit of impact, and only put together 110 points.

Did it off of 40% cbas or something.
Not asif he had 70% plus as that would be unsustainable for sure.

 

[The Saltshaker]

Anyone got this from 8hrs ago? New era of supercoach

 

[Presto]

KFC SuperCoach 2023: Al Paton’s top 20 cash cows
Cash cows are the cornerstone of every successful KFC SuperCoach team. Who should you pick? Expert Al Paton delivers his final verdict.
The 2023 KFC SuperCoach season has presented players in Australia’s biggest fantasy game with a bumper crop of cash cows.
From bargain basement rookies to top draft picks, experienced players returning from injury and even overseas, we have options all over the field.
So, who should you pick for your starting team?
After a summer of gathering training intel then watching teams in two rounds of practice matches, Al Paton has settled on the players who will get games early, deliver points and, crucially, shoot up in value – funding the trades we need to grab all the players we want during the season.
1 Will Ashcroft
Club: Brisbane Lions
Position: MID
SC Price: $202,800
Al Paton says: A no-brainer, and more than 70 per cent of KFC SuperCoaches agree. Junior numbers are off the charts and he could start in the centre square in round 1.
2 Charlie Constable
Club: Gold Coast
Position: DEF/MID
SC Price: $123,900
Al Paton says: Former Cat set to finally get his chance for an extended run at the top level after finding a new home as a running defender at the Suns.
3 Reuben Ginbey
Club: West Coast
Position: DEF/MID
SC Price: $173,000
Al Paton says: The most AFL ready of last year's draftees apart from Ashcroft, Eagles watchers are raving about his pre-season and lucrative scoring role.
4 Oskar Baker
Club: Western Bulldogs
Position: MID
SC Price: $123,900
Al Paton says: Cut by Melbourne and snapped up by the Dogs as a rookie and ready to take Lachie Hunter's old spot on the wing.
5 Fergus Greene
Club: Hawthorn
Position: FWD
SC Price: $123,900
Al Paton says: Played five games for the Bulldogs in 2018 but has spent the past two years kicking goals for Box Hill in the VFL. Perfect Jack Gunston replacement for the Hawks.
6 Esava Ratugolea
Club: Geelong
Position: RUC/FWD
SC Price: $174,000
Al Paton says: Has come from the clouds with an injury to Jack Henry opening the door for the reborn defensive interceptor. I've got him in the forward line but could be a bargain starting ruck if you're feeling brave.
7 Will Phillips
Club: North Melbourne
Position: MID
SC Price: $158,300
Al Paton says: Last season was ruined by Covid and glandular fever. Watch the No.3 pick from the 2020 draft blossom under Clarko.
8 Cameron Mackenzie
Club: Hawthorn
Position: MID
SC Price: $180,300
Al Paton says: Looked fantastic against Collingwood, winning centre clearances and finishing with 24 disposals and a goal. Could start him on field over Phillips.
9 Conor McKenna
Club: Brisbane Lions
Position: DEF
SC Price: $167,500
Al Paton says: Back after two years in Ireland. He scored well as a running defender for Essendon and if he's playing in round 1 you have to pick him.
10 Campbell Chesser
Club: West Coast
Position: DEF/MID
SC Price: $123,900
Al Paton says: I would have picked him last year but he hurt his ankle on the eve of round 1. Has been a long recovery but powering to the round 1 finish line.
11 Toby McLean
Club: Western Bulldogs
Position: MID/FWD
SC Price: $178,900
Al Paton says: Has had a horror run of injuries but ready to step back in as a high-tackling forward who can run through the midfield. Quiet pre-season but we know what he can do.
12 Darcy Wilmot
Club: Brisbane Lions
Position: DEF
SC Price: $123,900
Al Paton says: Looked good when he got his chance in last year's finals series and fortunately those scores don't impact his KFC SuperCoach price this year.
13 Mattaes Phillipou
Club: St Kilda
Position: MID/FWD
SC Price: $166,800
Al Paton says: The exciting X-factor the Saints need will get chances early in an undermanned forward line. Expect some outrageous highlights and some quiet patches.
14 Alwyn Davey Jr
Club: Essendon
Position: FWD/MID
SC Price: $117,300
Al Paton says: Father-son pick was one of Bombers' best in their final practice match, surely securing a round 1 debut. Handy bench link between midfield and forward line.
15 Ben King
Club: Gold Coast
Position: FWD
SC Price: $176,300
Al Paton says: Crazy cheap after a year out with a knee injury. Will have some quiet games but if he can kick a couple of bags his price will skyrocket.
16 Harry Sheezel
Club: North Melbourne
Position: FWD
SC Price: $198,300
Al Paton says: Price tag is the only knock on the outrageously talented No.3 draft pick who can kick goals or be given a run at half-back.
17 Oscar Allen
Club: West Coast
Position: FWD
SC Price: $210,200
Al Paton says: Heavily discounted after missing 2022 with a foot injury, Allen will play every week, never get subbed off and hopefully score 70 points every week.
18 Alex Cincotta
Club: Carlton
Position: DEF
SC Price: $102,400
Al Paton says: The 26-year-old signed with the Blues in February and could play at half-back in round 1. At that price how can we say no?
19 Kade Chandler
Club: Melbourne
Position: FWD
SC Price: $123,900
Al Paton says: Played four matches last year - all of them as the sub - and looks set to lock in a regular spot in 2023. Small forwards aren't big scorers but he could be a good bench pick.
20 Jye Menzie
Club: Essendon
Position: FWD
SC Price: $154,200
Al Paton says: One of the form players of the pre-season booted three goals in an intra-club then another three in the Bombers' practice match. Might be cheaper options, though.

 

[The Saltshaker]

Can someone post this please Supercoach data analyst calculates what makes a successful pick

 

[Connoisseur]

Can someone post this please Supercoach data analyst calculates what makes a successful pick

https://archive.md/
Use the above site to copy and paste the link to bypass the paywall:

When building your starting squad for your KFC SuperCoach AFL classic team, you have to pick players with upside. A limited salary cap means you need underpriced players who outperform their price point.
My definition of upside is the gap between what a player is priced at compared to what they will average. For example, in 2022, St Kilda defender Jack Sinclair started the year priced at $469,700. This means he was approximately valued at his 2021 average of 86.3. However, he went on to average 113.7, translating to a massive 27.4 points of upside!

These players with massive upside will set up your team for success. Clearly, Sinclair was a massive breakout, so he was definitely a worthwhile selection. But what if he averaged 95 instead? Would that have been enough upside?

Across the KFC SuperCoach community, there are different opinions of what upside is required of a player to make them worth selecting. A lot of it is speculative – how does anyone accurately predict how much upside is required of a player? Does is depend on position? What if they are an underpriced premium?
A common thought is that every player in your SuperCoach team needs to have upside. But how do we define Touk Miller’s 120.3 average in 2022? He was priced at 123.1 – does this mean he had no upside and therefore wasn’t worth picking? Time to look into what makes a player worthwhile!

I’ve collected SuperCoach AFL data from 2010 onwards to identify the patterns behind these types of players. And I’ve built a model to predict what the most popular picks in 2023 “need” to average to be worthwhile.

THE PROCESS
Just like we need to fill out our SuperCoach team for round 1, I’ll do the same using historical positions and scores for each season. Filling the starting 22 using starting price and season total points, we achieve a team full of the best picks for each season, based on their output relative to their price. Here’s how it looks for the 2022 team:

Optimal 2022 KFC SuperCoach team
DEFENCE
Jordan Dawson $550,300 (av 109.5)
Sam Docherty $533,000 (109.6)
Jack Sinclair $469,700 (113.7)
James Sicily $448,100 (113.5)
Angus Brayshaw $366,200 (100)
Nick Daicos $193,800 (91.3)
MIDFIELD
Touk Miller $677,800 (120.3)
Clayton Oliver $672,000 (127.1)
Rory Laird $632,600 (127.8)
Callum Mills $612,100 (116.7)
Andrew Brayshaw $584,300 (111.8)
Lachie Neale $543,200 (122.8)
Patrick Cripps $454,800 (111.1)
Jai Newcombe $261,300 (86.9)
RUCK
Mark Bilcavs $456,400 (97.6)
Jarrod Witts $380,300 (109.9)
FORWARDS
Josh Dunkley $558,200 (108.3)
Isaac Heeney $454,500 (101.2)
Daniel Rioli $336,000 (92.1)
Stephen Coniglio $251,300 (101.3)
Charlie Curnow $224,300 (86.1)
Will Brodie $224,300 (102.4)

We are following the traditional SuperCoach structure of six defenders, eight midfielders, two rucks and six forwards. DPPs are included as their final position as that is a more accurate representation of their position in that season.
One thing to notice here is that we still have some highly priced premiums in here! Miller’s average dropped between seasons but he was still good enough to make it. This suggests that points must outweigh value at some point; this isn’t talked about enough in the community.
Now that we have a full team of perfect starting selections, we can look at how their price and position is linked to their output. Plotting each of the players since 2010, we see a nice trend!

Tracking scores by price and position since 2010.

Taking the average across all of these players, we can estimate how well a player needs to score to be in the year’s outstanding picks. However, there is quite a bit of variance among these points. Only about 70 per cent of the variation in this model is explained by the starting price.
It’s important to also consider the position of a player when defining expectations. In this model above, adjusting for player position increases the accuracy of the model! Compared to midfielders, rucks are about three points higher due to having only two slots and historically good scoring. Defenders are seven points lower than mids, while forwards are six points lower.
So now we have a model for predicting what players must average to be a good pick! Approximately, multiply their price (in thousands, ie: $450.4k) by 0.07, adjust by the positions above, and then add 73 as a default value.
This isn’t as successful for rookies as we are going to be trading them out as soon as they peak in value. The typical rule for rookies is they need to make $150k to be a successful pick. The analysis is more relevant for premium players who we aim to keep all season and those mid-pricers who suit those D6/M8/F6 positions while you upgrade elsewhere.

Let’s take a look at what is required of some of the most popular selections so far in SuperCoach AFL 2023:
Josh Dunkley MID/FWD, $596.4k – worthwhile average 110.4
Dunkley’s FWD status helps him out here to get a lower worthwhile average. This is precisely why we typically don’t keep MID/FWDs in the valuable midfield slots. Most see Dunkley hitting this average (or much better), which is why he is so popular.
Tom Stewart $604k DEF – worthwhile average 108.0
The most popular of the $600k defenders, Stewart would need to retain a 108 average to be worth it this year. He averaged 109.7 in 2022, so it’s a no-brainer if he can play more games.
Tim Taranto $503.1k MID/FWD – worthwhile average 103.6
Underpriced by a diminished 2022 return, new Tiger Taranto might only need to average 103.6 to be worth it.
Elliot Yeo $337k DEF – worthwhile average 89.4
Definitely underpriced based on previous years, do you think Yeo can reach 89.4 to be an outstanding selection? DEF status brings his required average down!
Jacob Hopper $332k MID – worthwhile average 96.5
With over 50,000 selections, coaches are turning to Hopper as an underpriced midfielder. He is cheaper than Yeo, but has a higher worthwhile average. To be worth it as a MID only, he needs to average a bit more while taking up a valuable midfield slot.
Tom Green $534.6k MID – worthwhile average 110.6
With the aforementioned Taranto out of the GWS midfield rotation, and some great pre-season numbers, 30 per cent of coaches believe Green can step up to become a top-eight midfielder. To do so he will need to average the 110 predicted by the model.
Nick Daicos $502.5k DEF – worthwhile average 100.9
Averaging 91.3 in his debut season was outstanding. Could he prove the perfect underpriced defender with 10 points of upside?
Nat Fyfe $313.6k FWD/MID – worthwhile average 88.7
Can you see Fyfe averaging 88.7 in a predominantly forward role? Forty per cent of coaches believe so, making Fyfe the sixth most popular forward.
Rory Laird $703.1k MID – worthwhile average 122.4
You might not agree with this, as there is no value in picking someone who returns a lower average than last year, right? Eventually, value is not as important as chasing points. You get a big salary cap for a reason! If Laird goes at 122.4 this year, he will be a top-eight midfielder and a captaincy option all year.

 

[Presto]

Every AFL team’s best 23 for Round 1
The two weeks of practice matches are over. Where is your club’s best 23 at for round 1? See how every side could line up and the tough calls coaches are facing.

March 8, 2023 - 9:06AM
The AFL’s two weeks of practice matches, combined with all the hype surrounding the pre-season, make for a unique combination in determining who fits into your club’s best side when the action gets underway.
Who’s in? Who’s out? Who will struggle to get up for the first round of the year?
ADELAIDE
ADELAIDE’S PREDICTED 23
B: B. Smith, J. Butts, T. Doedee
HB: W. Milera, N. Murray, J. Dawson
C: M. Hinge, J. Rachele, R. Sloane
HF: B. Keays, E. Himmelberg, D. Fogarty
F: I. Rankine, T. Walker, S. McAdam
FOLL: R. O’Brien, S. Berry, R. Laird
I/C: P. Parnell, H. Schoenberg, J. Soligo, L. Pedlar
Sub: M. Michalanney

Notable absentees: J. Worrell (hamstring), R. Thilthorpe, M. Crouch, L. Murphy, N. McHenry
Jon Ralph’s selection dilemmas: No.2 overall draft pick Riley Thilthorpe will play a ruck-forward role this year but was squeezed out of the side that was so impressive against West Coast so Elliott Himmelberg will surely get the nod against GWS.

First-round pick Max Michalanney played 79 per cent game time in the Eagles clash but will likely be displaced by the returning Wayne Milera.
Jake Soligo is a certainty to keep his spot too after 15 composed disposals from 68 per cent game time including eight centre-bounces.
Matt Crouch racked up nine disposals from a single quarter but he’s just not in Matthew Nicks’ round 1 plans. Pedlar is keeping out McHenry and Murphy.
BRISBANE
BRISBANE’S PREDICTED 23
B: B. Starcevich, H. Andrews, D. Rich
HB: K. Coleman, J Payne, C.Rayner
C: Z. Bailey, J. Berry, H. McCluggage
HF: W. Ashcroft, E. Hipwood, J.Gunston
F: C. Cameron, J.Daniher, L.McCarthy
FOLL: O. McInerney, J.Dunkley, L.Neale
I/C: D. Zorko, C.McKenna, D. Wilmot, J Prior
Sub: D. Robertson
Notable absentees: J. Lyons, D. Fort, N. Answerth
Jon Ralph's selection dilemma: The squeeze for spots is on.
With Darcy Gardiner injured Jack Payne looks a ready-made able to take his spot, and with Port Adelaide likely to play the Dixon-Georgiades-Marshall tall trio Darragh Joyce did his claims no harm with a brilliant VFL performance after only 25 per cent game time against Geelong.
He still isn’t out of round 1 selection but Noah Answerth looks likely to start in the VFL as the Lions prioritise run and ball movement out of the back half with Cam Rayner, Kiddy Coleman and Dan Rich.
Darcy Wilmot seems a round 1 lock after strong summer form but 2022 regulars like Linc McCarthy and Cal Ah Chee will have to keep performing to hold their spots.
CARLTON
CARLTON’S PREDICTED 23
B: S. Docherty, J. Weitering, M. McGovern
HB: A. Saad, L. Young, N. Newman
C: B. Acres, P. Cripps, A. Cerra
HF: Z. Fisher, C. Curnow, J. Silvagni
F: J. Motlop, H. McKay, C. Durdin
FOLL: M. Pittonet, M. Kennedy, G. Hewett
I/C: T. De Koning, O. Hollands, L. Cowan, E. Curnow
Sub: A. Cincotta
Notable absences: Sam Walsh (back), Caleb Marchbank (calf)
Jon Ralph’s selection dilemma: Michael Voss can reward the kids who have been so impressive this summer - Ollie Hollands, Alex Cincotta, Lachie Cowan - or return to the stalwarts?
Wingman Hollands, dashing defender Cincotta and hard-nut backman Cowan have been in the senior side in match sim all summer and again played against Sydney.
But missing from that side were Nic Newman, Harry McKay, Patrick Cripps - who are all certain to play round 1 - as well as Mitch McGovern and Jack Martin.
Both McGovern and Martin are available.
Lachie Plowman played 89 per cent game time against Sydney but if Newman and McGovern return it will squeeze out at least one of Cincotta, Plowman or Cowan.
Cowan, a rugged tight-checking defender with a lovely kick, will play plenty this year so why not reward him in round 1?
COLLINGWOOD
COLLINGWOOD’S PREDICTED 23
B: B. Maynard, D. Moore, I. Quaynor
HB: N. Daicos, J. Howe, S. Pendlebury
C: J. Daicos, J. Crisp, S. Sidebottom
HF: J. Elliott, D. McStay, W. Hoskin-Elliott
F: B. Hill, B. Mihocek, B. McCreery
FOLL: D. Cameron, J. De Goey, T. Mitchell
I/C: T. Adams, M. Cox, B. Frampton, J. Noble
Sub: J. Carmichael
Notable absentees: J. Ginnivan (suspended), P. Lipinski (shoulder), N. Murphy
Jon Ralph’s selection dilemma: Collingwood’s line-up is relatively settled but they will have to find another midfielder with Pat Lipinski out for half the season.
With Brayden Maynard back after a minor leg infection it would presumably squeeze out one of Nathan Murphy or Billy Frampton for the clash against a Cats side that could still contain Tom Hawkins as well as Jeremy Cameron.
Frampton played 96 per cent game time as the deepest defender against Hawthorn and while he is untidy by foot at times he is in front of Murphy if the Pies only play one of the pair.
One of Reef McInnes, Oleg Markov or Josh Carmichael will probably squeeze in as the sub, with Carmichael performing well in that role last year.
ESSENDON
ESSENDON’S PREDICTED 23
B: M. Redman, J. Laverde, J. Ridley
HB: J. Kelly, B. Zerk-Thatcher, A. McGrath
C: S. Durham, Z. Merrett, W. Setterfield
HF: N. Martin, S. Weideman, A. Perkins
F: Alwyn Davey Jr, P. Wright, H. Jones
FOLL: S. Draper, D. Parish, D. Shiel
I/C: J. Caldwell, M. D’Ambrosio, A McDonald-Tipungwuti, Jye Menzie
Sub: W. Snelling
Notable absentees: Jake Stringer (hamstring), Dyson Heppell (foot), Nik Cox (back), Zac Reid (back)
Jon Ralph’s selection dilemmas: Brad Scott would love to have got more evidence about his small-forward pecking order against St Kilda but in a three-goal effort where only Alwyn Davey Jr, Sam Durham and Peter Wright hit the scoreboard question marks remain.
Davey not only hit the scoreboard, he had 13 touches from 79 per cent game so everything points to a round 1 debut against the Hawks.
Will Snelling, restricted to eight games by injury last year, played only 22 per cent game time so seems behind McDonald-Tipungwuti and Menzie.
If Matt Guelfi, third in the best-and-fairest last year, is ready off a calf injury he could push one of that pair out.
Harry Jones won only seven possessions but is the future so Brad Scott can choose to play only Wright and Weideman or go with three talls.
FREMANTLE
FREMANTLE’S PREDICTED 23
B: L Ryan, A Pearce, H Chapman
HB: J Clark, B Cox, H Young
C: J Aish, A Brayshaw, L Henry
HF: L Schultz, L Jackson, N Fyfe
F: S Switkowski, M Taberner, M Walters
FOL: S Darcy, C Serong, J O’Meara
I/C B Banfield, W Brodie, B Walker, J Treacy
Sub: M Johnson
Notable absentees: E Hughes, N O’Driscoll, N Wilson, S Sturt.
Jon Ralph’s selection dilemmas: Liam Henry seems to have done enough with a bumper summer to lock in a round 1 berth, while Josh Treacy has clearly gone past youngster Jye Amiss for that clash against St Kilda. Amiss didn’t even get a berth in the 26 who beat Port Adelaide.
Brandon Walker played 21 games last year so will keep his spot while Bailey Banfield (11 touches, seven tackles) got 91 per cent game time and could take Michael Frederick’s spot as he works back from a quad injury.
Banner for KFC SuperCoach footy 2023
GEELONG
GEELONG'S PREDICTED 23
B: J. Bews M. Blicavs Z. Guthrie
HB: T. Stewart S. De Koning M. O’Connor
C: M. Holmes T. Atkins I. Smith
HF: G. Miers J. Cameron B. Parfitt
F: T. Stengle O. Henry B. Close
FOLL: R. Stanley C. Guthrie P. Dangerfield
I/C: J. Bowes, T. Bruhn, G. Rohan, E. Ratugolea
Sub: Z. Tuohy
Notable absentees: J. Kolodjashni (head knock), T. Hawkins (foot), J. Henry (foot), M. Duncan (calf)
Jon Ralph’s selection dilemmas: Why would Geelong risk 34-year-old Tom Hawkins as he recovers from a toe reconstruction against Collingwood given the main game is so many months into the future?
It would require the Cats to find another key tall as Jack Henry rehabs his foot, but they have enough key targets alongside Jeremy Cameron with Gary Rohan and Ollie Henry on track to take on the Pies.
Tanner Bruhn surely plays after 19 disposals and 112 ranking points against Brisbane while Jack Bowes didn’t play in that game after an impressive summer. Kolodjashnij’s latest head knock should create room for Esava Ratugolea to play as an intercept defender.
GOLD COAST
GOLD COAST'S PREDICTED 23
B: C Constable, S. Collins, B. Long
HB: C. Ballard, C. Graham, J. Farrar
C: B. Ellis, T. Miller, E. Hollands
HF: J. Jeffrey, M. Chol, B. Ainsworth
F: J. Lukosius, B. King, N Holman
FOLL: J. Witts, M. Rowell, N. Anderson
I/C: D. Swallow, A. Davies, S. Flanders, L. Weller
Sub M. Rosas Jnr
Notable absentees: W. Powell (hamstring), B. Humphrey, A. Sexton, B. Fiorini, L. Casboult,
Jon Ralph’s selection dilemmas: Plenty to ponder for Stuart Dew, with Supercoach favourite Charlie Constable a lock given Sean Lemmens won’t come up for round 1 with a minor calf issue.
The question is what happens by round 3 with Farrar, Long and Lemmens potentially picked ahead of him?
Caleb Graham is probably needed as the third defensive tall given the Swans will play three talls in attack.
Bailey Humphrey missed the weekend with a cut foot so won’t make his round 1 debut.
At times the Suns played all of their talls in Ben King, Levi Casboult, Mabior Chol, Jack Lukosius and Joel Jeffrey and it didn’t really work.
So Casboult could get squeezed out for round 1, with Friday’s main training session giving another chance for them to consider that mix.
Similarly, Tom Berry, Jeffrey and Mal Rosas are probably fighting for the last small forward spot alongside Nick Holman and Ben Ainsworth.
Lachie Weller (ACL) has progressed so fast from his ACL tear that he will now play football in round 2, and although it will likely be VFL there is a chance he could come straight back into the senior side.

 

[Presto]

GWS
GWS' PREDICTED 23
B: I. Cumming, S. Taylor, C. Idun
HB: L. Ash, N. Haynes, L. Whitfield
C: F. Callaghan, J. Kelly, J. Wehr
HF: J. Peatling, J. Hogan, J. Riccardi
F: T. Greene, H. Himmelberg, D Lloyd
FOLL: B. Preuss, T. Green, S. Coniglio
I/C: H. Perryman, C. Ward, L. Aleer, A. Kennedy
SUB: C. Stone
Notable absentees: B. Daniels, T. Bedford
Jon Ralph’s selection dilemmas: The backline continues to evolve, with Adam Kingsley slotting Lachie sh into half back and Leek Aleer doing enough across the pre-season to win a spot in the best 22.
No.1 overall pick Aaron Cadman kicked four goals in the seconds games and although his time will come the strong summers of Jake Riccardi and Jesse Hogan have them on track for round ahead of him.
Brent Daniels is coming back from a minor hamstring injury so the hope for Kingsley will be that the intense pressure on spots for small forwards alongside Toby Greene spurs those players to great heights.
HAWTHORN
HAWTHORN’S PREDICTED 23
B: B Hardwick, J Sicily, S Frost
HB: J Scrimshaw, J Blanck, C Jiath
C: K Amon, J Newcombe, W Day
HF: D Moore, J Koschitzke, C Macdonald
F: C Wingard, F Greene, L Breust
FOLL: N Reeves, J Worpel, J Ward
I/C: J Impey, C Mackenzie, F Maginness, L. Meek
Sub: L. Bramble
Notable absentees: M. Lewis (knee)
Jon Ralph’s selection dilemmas: Fergus Greene clearly did enough against Collingwood to ensure he will play in Mitch Lewis’ absence. Ditto for No.7 draft pick Cam Mackenzie as Will Day also looked excellent in the midfield against Collingwood.
Ned Reeves played 64 per cent game time but the sneaking suspicion is that he and Lloyd Meek will both play, while Lachie Bramble got a good crack at it with 75 ranking points from 86 per cent game time against Collingwood.
It means he must be a strong chance to be in the first 23 against Essendon.
MELBOURNE
MELBOURNE’S PREDICTED 23
B: H.Petty, S.May, J. Bowey
HB: A.Brayshaw, J.Lever, T.Rivers
C: E.Langdon, J.Viney, L.Hunter
HF: A.Neal-Bullen, T.McDonald, K.Pickett
F: M.Gawn, B.Brown, B.Fritsch
FOLL: B.Grundy, C.Oliver, C.Petracca
I/C: J.Jordon, C.Spargo, T.Sparrow, J.Harmes
Sub: K. Chandler
Notable absentees: C. Salem (thyroid)
Jon Ralph’s selection dilemma: Melbourne is confident Bayley Fritsch will take on the Western Bulldogs despite missing the two practice games after having his foot stomped on in a bizarre pre-season injury.
They also hope Jack Viney (knee) will be ready, which means of the 23 who played against Richmond Taj Woewodin (23 per cent game time), and Bailey Laurie (56 per cent game time) will likely be forced out.
Then the Demons will have to work out which of Kade Chandler or Judd McVee sneaks into the side - possibly as the sub - after both played big game time against the Tigers.
NORTH MELBOURNE
NORTH MELBOURNE’S PREDICTED 23
B: J. Ziebell, A. Corr, F. Perez
HB: L. McDonald, G. Logue, J. Goater
C: B. Scott, B. Cunnington, K. Turner
HF: T. Powell, T. Goldstein, P. Curtis
F: C. Zurhaar, N. Larkey, H. Sheezel
FOLL: T. Xerri, L. Davies-Uniacke, J. Simpkin
I/C C. Taylor, L. Shiels, A. Bonar, W. Phillips
Sub: A Hall.
Notable absentees: D. Tucker (knee), H. Greenwood, C. Coleman-Jones, C. Zurhaar, B. McKay (foot)
Jon Ralph’s selection dilemma: Cam Zurhaar’s calf injury means he is in real doubt against West Coast, while Callum Coleman-Jones has plantar fascia issues that will also rule him out.
Charlie Comben couldn’t get near it in the clash against the Bulldogs (six touches, minus three ranking points) so could Todd Goldstein play forward as Tristan Xerri handles the ruck?
Curtis Taylor, Aidan Corr and Aaron Hall all returned from injury in the VFL game on Saturday afternoon and Taylor and Corr will definitely play in round 1.
So that could push out Bonar and Jaidyn Stephenson, who had a crack to amass 10 disposals from 40 per cent of game time late.
Hugh Greenwood played VFL purely on form on Saturday so has a challenge to break into the side.
PORT ADELAIDE
PORT ADELAIDE'S PREDICTED 23
B D. Byrne-Jones, T. Jonas, R.Burton
HB D. Houston, A. Aliir, K. Farrell
C X. Duursma , O. Wines, M. Bergman
HF O. Fantasia, T. Marshall, T. Boak
F J. Rioli, C. Dixon, S. Powell-Pepper
FOLL S. Lycett, C. Rozee, J. Horne-Francis
I/C Z. Butters, M. Georgiades, W. Drew, L. Jones
Sub: J. Burgoyne
Notable absentees: J. Finlayson, T. McKenzie, T. Clurey, R. Bonner, J. Sinn, T. Dumont
Jon Ralph’s selection dilemma: Miles Bergman is a lock to take Karl Amon’s spot on the wing after a big summer including 25 touches and 119 ranking points against Fremantle.
Charlie Dixon, Mitch Georgiades and Todd Marshall kicked only one goal between them against Fremantle but will be backed in to take on a red-hot Brisbane.
Scott Lycett played only four games last year with injury as Jeremy Finlayson was preferred to him, and while Finlayson hasn’t been ruled out (syndesmosis) he is unlikely for round 1.
Lycett was well beaten by Sean Darcy in 60 per cent game and Brynne Teakle only played 28 per cent so the ruck picture is as unclear as ever.
Travis Boak and Tom Clurey will return for round 1 after missing against Fremantle.
RICHMOND
RICHMOND'S PREDICTED 23
FB: R. Tarrant, N. Balta, N. Broad
HB: N. Vlastuin, D. Grimes, D. Rioli
C: J. Short, T. Taranto, K. McIntosh
HF: S. Bolton, J. Riewoldt, M. Rioli
F: D. Martin, T. Lynch, N. Cumberland
FOLL: T. Nankervis, D. Prestia, J. Hopper
I/C: L. Baker, B. Miller, M. Pickett, T. Cotchin
Sub: T. Dow
Notable absentees: J. Gibcus (hamstring), J. Ross (knee)
Jon Ralph’s selection dilemma: The Tigers haven’t ruled out Jayden Short (calf) but very few players overcome a strain in 12 days, so Jayden Short must be in real doubt for round 1.
The pacy Hugo Ralphsmith is a like-for-like but played VFL alongside Tyler Sonsie and Ben Miller.
Thomson Dow (73 per cent game time) and Judson Clark (79 per cent game time) got extended time in the first team and both looked at home.
If Tarrant doesn’t recover from hip issues the Tigers might consider mature-aged rookie Tylar Young, who played the entire game against Melbourne as a 196cm defender.
Samson Ryan played only a single quarter but looked the best aerial presence of the key forwards and with Ivan Soldo lacking impact could 206cm ruck-forward Ryan get the nod behind Toby Nankervis as a ruck-forward?
Plenty of issues still for the Tigers given Marlion Pickett (adductor) and Tarrant still have to prove their fitness.
ST KILDA
ST KILDA'S PREDICTED 23
B: C. Wilkie, D. Howard, J. Webster
HB: J. Sinclair, J. Battle, N. Wanganeen-Milera
C: M. Wood, J. Steele, B. Hill
HF: J. Gresham, Z. Cordy, J. Higgins
F: M. Owens, A. Caminiti (debut), D. Butler
FOLL: R. Marshall, B. Crouch, M. Windhager
I/C: H. Clark, M. Phillipou (debut), L. Stocker, B. Paton
Sub: J. Bytel
Notable absentees: M. King (shoulder), J. Billings (leg fracture), Z. Jones, S. Ross, T. Membrey, D. McKenzie, J. Hayes
Jon Ralph’s selection dilemma: St Kilda remains confident Marcus Windhager will recover in time for the Sunday twilight clash against Fremantle to take his spot in the side.
But Tim Membrey didn’t seem overly optimistic of his chances of returning from knee surgery, which means Anthony Caminiti will surely join Matthaes Phillipou on debut.
Liam Stocker and Hunter Clark surely franked their round 1 claims with strong showings against Essendon.
Ryan Byrnes showed flashes of his potential in 82 per cent game time so will push for one of the final spots ahead of Jack Bytel, who won 16 touches in 60 per cent game time.
The fact both are pushing hard is positive for a Saints side that needs to find a few more kids.
Zaine Cordy looks set to help the club’s key position stocks with a round 1 berth for his new game as the only player to log 100 per cent game time in a six-possession display.
SYDNEY
SYDNEY'S PREDICTED 23
B: D. Rampe, T. McCartin, B. Campbell
HB: N. Blakey, P. McCartin, J. Lloyd
C: D. Stephens, C. Mills, J. McInerney
HF: I. Heeney, L. McDonald, W. Hayward
F: T. Papley, L. Franklin, E. Gulden
FOLL: P. Ladhams, C. Warner, L. Parker
I/C: O. Florent, J. Rowbottom, H. McLean, H.Cunningham
Sub S. Reid
Notable absentees: A. Sheldrick, T. Hickey (calf), R. Clarke (hamstring), R. Fox (calf), A. Francis
Jon Ralph’s selection dilemma: Sydney’s key tall stocks are suddenly looking more encouraging, even if many of those players have had severely limited pre-seasons.
Lance Franklin played against Carlton and Peter Ladhams got through despite several hits on the jaw, while young ruckman Lachlan McAndrew played 38 per cent game time.
Tom Hickey won’t play round 1 due to a calf injury.
So John Longmire’s conundrum is whether to play McAndrew and Ladhams in the ruck or only Ladhams with support from Hayden McLean as Lance Franklin and Logan McDonald play as they key talls in attack.
Sam Reid played 62 per cent game time after his own summer issues and Cal Mills will slot back into the side after a finger injury.
So plenty of decisions ahead for John Longmire as he judges not just the names on the jumpers but how ready they are for round 1.

 

[Presto]

WEST COAST
WEST COAST'S PREDICTED 23
B: S.Hurn, T. Barrass, T.Cole.
HB: L.Duggan, J.McGovern, J. Hunt.
C: A. Gaff, E.Yeo, R.Ginbey.
HF: J.Cripps, J. Waterman, J. Jones.
F: L.Ryan, O. Allen, T’Kelly.
FOLL: B.Williams, D. Sheed, L.Shuey.
I/C E.Hewett, C.Jamieson, X. O’Neill, C. Chesser
Sub: J. Petruccelle
Notable absentees: N.Naitanui (achilles), J. Darling (ankle), J. Rotham (fractured arm)
Jon Ralph’s selection dilemma: Plenty of key position issues for West Coast given Nic Naitanui has an achilles issue, Josh Rotham broke his arm, Jack Darling is still in straight-line running and Bailey Williams missed the loss to Adelaide with a tight hamstring.
In Williams’ absence young ruck Callum Jamieson played 79 per cent game time and was far from disgraced.
Regardless of Williams’ status he will surely be in the team in the early rounds.
West Coast hopes Williams will resume in round 1, with early draft pick Reuben Ginbey the clear positive playing midfield and defence.
He’s a round 1 lock, amassing 99 ranking points from only 56 per cent game time.
The Eagles say Darling is “trending in the right direction” but he is no certainty to take on West Coast.
WESTERN BULLDOGS
WESTERN BULLDOGS' PREDICTED 23
B: L. Jones, A. Keath, T. Duryea
HB: B. Dale, S. Darcy, E. Richards
C: A. Treloar, C. Daniel, B. Smith
HF: B. Williams, A. Naughton, J. Macrae
F: J. Ugle-Hagan, R. Lobb, A. Jones
Foll: T. English, M. Bontempelli, T. Liberatore
Int: O. Baker, A Scott, T. McLean, J. Bruce
Sub: H. Crozier
Notable absentees: Cody Weightman (groin), Ryan Gardiner (elbow)
Jon Ralph’s selection dilemma: Cody Weightman has missed both the Dogs scratch match and the win over North Melbourne with groin issues.
Why would he be risked in round 1 with such a long season ahead, which means Arthur Jones is on track for a debut as a small forward.
Josh Bruce played 87 per cent match time, so if Sam Darcy is used forward he could be a round 1 defender in a team needing plenty of tall options against Melbourne’s key attacking players in Max Gawn, Tom McDonald and Ben Brown.
Toby McLean and Anthony Scott are clearly in the best 22, which means Jason Johannisen, (who got match fitness in the VFL) and Rylee West (who came on late against the Roos) might both miss out.

 

[The Saltshaker]

No way is Frampton ahead of Murphy...he's a dudd 👎

 

[Shannon]

KFC SuperCoach 2023: The Phantom’s rookie rankings in every position
With the pre-season complete, the best KFC SuperCoach rookies have shown themselves. The Phantom has updated his verdicts and named the best picks in every position.

The Phantom

16 min read
March 9, 2023 - 6:00AM

DEFENDERS
1. Charlie Constable
GC, $123,900, Mid
SC Ave 2022: 110 (VFL)

Practice match score: 73

Numbers have never been a problem for Constable. He’s put up huge numbers in the VFL for both Gold Coast and Geelong – even his numbers during a brief stint in the Cats’ senior side were impressive. But he’s been unable to lock down a regular AFL spot – until now. The 23-year-old moved to defence in the back half of last season and proved his ball-winning translates to a new position, averaging seven rebound-50s, six intercepts, 114 SuperCoach points, and taking six intercept marks, in the final six games of the season. He took kick-ins and had 42 disposals and nine clearances in the preliminary final loss and proved a reliable outlet from defence. With Lachie Weller and Wil Powell still working their way back from injury, Constable started in the back-six in both pre-season matches and tallied 19 disposals, 424 metres gained and 73 points against the Giants.

Phantom’s March 8 verdict: At the price, with his proven ball-winning ability, and the way the Suns looked for him coming out of defence during the pre-season, you have to pick him.

2. Reuben Ginbey
WC, $171,300, Mid
SC Ave 2022: 93 (U18 Champs)

Practice match score: 99

Expensive, but, after what he did in the practice match against the Crows, Ginbey is a rookie lock. The 18-year-old is built like a brick you-know-what and arrived at the Eagles with senior WAFL experience under his belt. Ginbey, who averaged 93 KFC SuperCoach points and won 46 per cent of his possession in a contest at the under-18 championships, has impressed on the track all summer, where has been swapping with Elliot Yeo between the midfield and half-back. This versatility, with Ginbey playing a lot of junior football in defence before starring on-ball last year, is another big tick for his debut-season prospects.

Phantom’s March 8 verdict: As predicted, Ginbey featured in the midfield and across half-back against the Crows after overcoming a toe complaint. And, boy, was he good. Registered team-highs in contested possessions and clearances in just 56 per cent game-time, and is only at No. 2 because of the price.

3. Alex Cincotta
Carl, $102,400
SC Ave 2022: 84 (VFL)

Practice match score: 70

Who replaces Zac Williams in defence for the Blues? That’s the big question KFC SuperCoaches might have to wait a little longer to find the answer for, after the two rookie-price contenders – Cincotta and Lachie Cowan – impressed in the practice matches. They could both play but if I had to guess right now, I’d say Cincotta is just ahead. The rebounding defender, who averaged 21 touches and five intercepts at VFL level last year, finished with 16 disposals and 70 points in 80 per cent game-time against the Swans, a week after showing off his speed and playmaking traits in his first hitout as a Blue. And, at 26, he appears more physically ready to step straight into action against the Tigers in Round 1.

Phantom’s March 8 verdict: Cincotta is keeping Cowan – who is a KFC SuperCoach star of the future – off this list for the moment. But that could very well change over the next 10 days. A bench lock for now, though.

4. Darcy Wilmot
Bris, $123,900
SC Ave 2022: 83 (VFL)

Practice match score: 52

Wilmot impressed on the big stage last season after replacing Noah Answerth for the qualifying final, posting scores of 52, 61 and 73 in the first three games of his career. Importantly, he proved his worth up higher on a wing, too. Given those appearances weren’t in the home-and-away season, he keeps his $123k price tag for 2023, in a big win for KFC SuperCoaches. Conor McKenna might have locked in a spot across half-back, but Brisbane coach Chris Fagan, again, used Wilmot on a wing, and the second-year Lion is set to start there in 2023.

Phantom’s March 8 verdict: Might be better on-field options now, but he’s still a great bench pick – $123k rookies who scored 73 in their last game are rare. Wilmot was the youngest player drafted in 2021, so another pre-season is huge for his development.


5. Conor McKenna
Bris, $167,500
SC Ave 2020: 61 (Essendon)

Practice match score: 53

In the year before he retired to head back to Ireland, McKenna averaged 80 KFC SuperCoach points in 21 games for the Bombers. The season before that in 2018, it was 74 in 18 games. Those sort of numbers should price him at more than $400k. But after his two-year absence from the AFL, the 26-year-old, who has 79 games to his name, is available for less than $200k.

Phantom’s March 8 verdict: Will start in defence, but the Lions have plenty of ball-winners in the back-half. So is he worth the extra $40k? That’s the question that’s hard to answer at the moment. The other question is, will Liam Jones do a better on-field job for $228k?

NEXT IN LINE
Lachie Cowan
Carl, $117,300
SC Ave 2022: 141 (NAB League)

Practice match score: 57

Zac Williams’ season-ending injury – and Oleg Markov signing with Collingwood – may have just opened the door for one of the best KFC SuperCoach scorers of last year’s draft to play in Round 1. Cowan averaged 27 disposals – 20 of them kicks – eight intercepts, eight rebound-50s and 141 points in the NAB League last year – third behind Will Ashcroft and Elijah Tsatas. Cowan’s strength is his run-and-carry, but he also makes good decisions with the ball in hand. “We’ve got a young kid in Lachie Cowan who was drafted at the end of last year who is very exciting,” star defender Jacob Weitering said on SEN when talking about who could fill the hole left by Williams.

Phantom’s March 8 verdict:Had some nice moments in the practice match games and could rise here, depending on selection.

Campbell Chesser
WC, $123,900, Mid
SC Ave 2022: 83 (U18 Champs)

Practice match score: 57

West Coast’s top pick from the 2021 draft has taken significant recent strides as he builds towards a Round 1 debut, despite the club managing his workload over summer. Chesser kicked two from a wing in the internal trial before finishing with nine disposals and 34 points against the Crows, in a role that also featured three centre bounce attendances.

Phantom’s March 8 verdict:The Eagles want to play Chesser, given they need his speed and foot skills, so he’s still in the KFC SuperCoach bench mix – maybe even in the midfield. But he might be one that takes a little longer to get going.

Others to watch: Tom Cole, Max Michalanney, Corey Wagner, Rhett Montgomerie, Jakob Ryan.

MIDFIELDERS

1. Will Ashcroft
Bris, $202,800
SC Ave 2022: 159 (NAB League)

Practice match score: 96

In his 21 games last year, across the VFL, NAB League and national under-18 carnival, Ashcroft tallied 140 KFC SuperCoach points in 16 of them. The father-son gun, who is as ready-to-go as any top draftee in recent years – and that includes Nick Daicos, Sam Walsh and Matt Rowell – averaged 34 disposals and 159 points for Sandringham at under-18 level and posted scores of 119, 126, 146 in three dominant VFL performances for the Lions.

Phantom’s March 8 verdict:From what we’ve seen over the pre-season, Ashcroft, who tallied 26 disposals and 96 points against the Cats, could even out-do Walsh’s 87-point debut season average. Forget the price-tag, just pick him.

2. Will Phillips
NM, $158,300
SC Ave 2022: DNP

Practice match score: 48

Last year was a write-off for the young Kangaroos midfielder, who battled glandular fever and didn’t play one game. But that means a discounted KFC SuperCoach price tag for the player who was taken at pick 3 in the 2020 draft – one who has enjoyed a blistering pre-season. Phillips averaged 22 disposals and 103 KFC SuperCoach in his bottom-age NAB League year, playing behind Matt Rowell and Noah Anderson at Oakleigh. And, while he struggled to really find his feet in his debut season of 2021, there were enough signs. The tough, clean on-baller won 40 per cent of his possession in a contest during his first year at the top level, and recorded eight contested possessions or more in three of his final six matches, resulting in KFC SuperCoach scores of 72, 55 and 67.

Phantom’s March 8 verdict: On a day when the Roos midfield was beaten up, don’t be too put off by the 48-point score against the Dogs. Phillips turned the ball over a bit – something we’ll probably see again – but he appears locked into the first-choice midfield, with only Luke Davies-Uniacke and Ben Cunnington attending more centre bounces. Still on-field for me.

 

[Shannon]

3. Oskar Baker
WB, $123,900
SC Ave 2022: 91 (VFL)

Practice match score: 111

This time last year, we were talking about who would address the Bulldogs’ need for run on wing – it’s why KFC SuperCoaches were hopeful now-delisted mature-ager Charlie Parker was a chance. And that was with Lachie Hunter in the side. Hunter is now at Melbourne, the former home of Baker, who couldn’t break through into the senior team last year, despite consistent form on a wing in the VFL. The 24-year-old posted seven KFC SuperCoach tons and averaged 21 disposals, five marks, five score involvements, four inside 50s, four intercepts and 91 points in 20 matches. More importantly, he’s featured prominently on a wing over summer and we know Luke Beveridge loves a role player

Phantom’s March 8 verdict: The Bulldogs have admitted the plan wasn’t to give Baker such an extended run against the Roos, but early injuries forced their hand. And Baker took the opportunity and ran, booting the first goal on his way to 22 disposals, eight marks and 111 points. We needed a solid midfield bench option with a few early favourites falling away, too.

4. Cam Mackenzie
Haw, $180,300
SC Ave 2022: 108 (U18 champs)

Practice match score: 99

Played multiple midfield roles in a standout draft year, which ended with a huge 26-disposal, two-goal, 170-point performance in the NAB League grand final. And he’s carried the impressive form into his first pre-season, with the Hawks loving what he’s done over summer. Mackenzie has class, toughness and makes great decisions with the ball – and all his strengths were on show during an impressive practice match performance against the Pies. The teenager attended 19 centre bounces and finished with 26 disposals and 99 KFC SuperCoach points in 73 per cent game-time.

Phantom’s March 8 verdict: The price has long been a concern, but his pre-season form – and likely role – is now hard to ignore. I can’t fit him in alongside Ashcroft, Phillips – and maybe Finn Callaghan – but I’m all for starting the young Hawk.

5. Alwyn Davey
Ess, $117,300, Fwd
SC Ave 2022: 89 (NAB League)

Practice match score: 67

The Bombers needed another game-changer heading into last year’s draft and – via the father-son rule – one landed in their lap in Davey. The 19-year-old is clean, has plenty of class and doesn’t need a lot of the ball to have an impact as he’s proven already in his short time on Essendon’s list. After hitting the scoreboard in the unofficial practice match, Davey kicked the first goal against the Saints and was one of the shining lights for the Bombers, finishing with 13 disposals, six contested possessions and 67 points.

Phantom’s March 8 verdict: With Blake Drury dropping of this list, Davey now appears the best basement-price dual-position rookie to start on your midfield bench. There’s likely to be some lows, but all he needs is one or two highs to do the job at the price.

NEXT IN LINE
Jack Bytel
StK, $158,600
SC Ave 2022: 112 (VFL)

Practice match score: 75

After finishing with a huge 17 contested possessions, 12 clearances, 12 tackles and 184 points in his final VFL game last year, Bytel has been on the watchlist all pre-season. But the question was – and still is – can he force his way past a few similar-type midfielders at the Saints? When Marcus Windhager went off injured early against the Bombers, Bytel stepped off the bench and straight into the centre bounce mix, tallying 16 disposals, nine contested possessions, seven tackles and 75 points – while also putting some work into Darcy Parish – in 60 per cent game-time.

Phantom’s March 8 verdict: I’d love to pick him but even if Windhager misses the season-opener – he hasn’t been ruled out – and Bytel plays, how long does it last?

Oliver Hollands
Carl, $162,500
SC Ave 2022: 114 (Under-18 Champs)

Practice match score: 59

After an impressive pre-season, which he capped off with 17 disposals and 59 points against the Swans, the Blues’ top pick is right in the Round 1 mix. Hollands’ endurance is unmatched in last year’s draft class and that enormous workrate, together with clean skills, could see him score well in KFC SuperCoach from the outset.

Phantom’s March 8 verdict: Can you pick him as higher-price mid rookie instead of – or even alongside – Ashcroft, Phillips and now Mackenie? I’m not sure.

Others to watch for: Matt Roberts, Liam Henry

RUCKS
1. Esava Ratugolea
Geel, $174,000, Fwd
2022 SC Ave: 39

Practice match score: 49

The Cats, despite Ratugolea playing just four senior games during an injury-riddled 2022, didn’t want to let him go in the trade period and his late-season form in defence was a big reason why. After kicking goals, and pinch-hitting in the ruck on his return from injury, the 24-year-old took 10 intercept marks, among 22 total intercept possession, in the final two VFL matches of the year, playing in defence. He scored 86 KFC SuperCoach points in both games and has trained as a defender all summer.

Phantom’s March 8 verdict: Ratugolea as a defender who can pinch-hit in the ruck would give Chris Scott’s side yet another layer. But can you pick him in KFC SuperCoach? Two solid showings in the practice games would force us all to consider. That was the verdict before any pre-season action. It’s fair to say Ratugolea’s three intercept marks in the opening term of the first practice match turned the rookie conversation on its head. He was a little quieter against the Lions, but with Jack Henry injured, the role in defence is his. I’d love to pick him at R2, but F6 is probably a little more realistic.

2. Nick Madden
GWS $102,400, Fwd
2022 SC Ave: 112 (NAB League)

Practice match score: DNP

A 112-point average in the NAB League means there’s hope for the future but, as the only $102k ruck-forward option, Madden is the man for the R3 loophole in 2023. He’s unlikely to feature this year – at least not early given his foot injury – and in the first 13 rounds, the Giants play eight times on Sunday and once on Saturday night.

Phantom’s March 8 verdict: At this point, there’s no Jack Hayes-like R3 option who is going to score 100 in the opening round. So, like in previous years, you’re giving up less by playing a zero on your ruck line. Why a zero? It allows you two shots at a big captain score using the vice-captain loophole.

3. Brynn Teakle
Port $198,500
2022 SC Ave: 48

Practice match score: 8

Came from nowhere to debut in Round 14 last year, after being taken in the mid-season draft. Scored 30 KFC SuperCoach points and took a big mark, before being injured in the second term. The 22-year-old who “has been pushing” Scott Lycett on the track this summer was back in the senior side in Round 21, and tallied 12 disposals, 19 hitouts, eight tackles and 66 KFC SuperCoach points. Teakle has plenty of things to improve in his game – as coach Ken Hinkley mentioned late last year – but there’s plenty to work with.

Phantom’s March 8 verdict: Started in Port’s stronger side for the internal trial, before featuring alongside Lycett in some capacity in both practice matches. Lycett was beaten convincingly by Sean Darcy in the final game, and Jeremy Finlayson is still sidelined, so there could be a bit to play out there.

4. Ned Moyle
GC $123,900
2022 SC Ave: 111 (VFL)

Practice match score: DNP

Jarrod Witts is the man in the ruck on the Gold Coast, and his monopoly on the role is what makes him a great KFC SuperCoach scorer. But what if he goes down? We don’t wish injury on anyone but the fact is, Moyle is the next man up at the Suns. And he has plenty of KFC SuperCoach scoring potential. In 21 VFL matches last year, Moyle averaged 14 disposals, 10 contested possessions, 12 hitouts-to-advantage, five clearances and 111 points. He posted 14 KFC SuperCoach tons, including three scores of 150 or more, to be named the ruckman in the VFL team of the year.

Phantom’s March 8 verdict:The 20-year-old looks ready to go. If it’s not this year, there’s no doubt Moyle’s name will pop up in KFC SuperCoach again very soon.

5. Liam Reidy
Freo, $102,400
2022 SC Ave: 76 (VFL)

Practice match score: DNP

In Round 21 in the VFL last year – his first full year in the system after playing basketball and local footy – Reidy tallied 17 disposals, 12 contested possessions, 10 hitouts-to-advantage, eight tackles, three goals and 174 KFC SuperCoach points. The Dockers have just welcomed Luke Jackson into their ruck setup but, at 22, and standing 204cm and 102kg, Reidy – who can also play as a marking forward – is physically ready if called-upon.

Phantom’s March 8 verdict: Another we might not see this year – but take note just in case we do.

 

[Shannon]

1. Fergus Greene
(Haw, $123,900)
2022 SC Ave: 91 (VFL)

Practice match score: 84

Jack Gunston is gone and Mitch Lewis is injured, so the Hawks need a forward to step up. And, in a huge win for KFC SuperCoaches, it looks like the mature-age recruit could be the one to do so. Greene, who played five matches for the Bulldogs in 2018, continued his impressive pre-season form, booting two goals in the club’s recent internal trial. The 25-year-old was signed as a delisted free agent after kicking 53.21 and averaging 91 KFC SuperCoach points for Box Hill in 17 VFL games last year.

Phantom’s March 8 verdict: After booting 3.2 against the Magpies, Greene is a bench lock in KFC SuperCoach. Might not be the highest scorer on this list, but will make some early cash.

2. Toby McLean
(WB, $178,900, Mid)
2022 SC Ave: DNP

Practice match score: 45

In his first senior game in 426 days, McLean finished with 21 disposals, 11 contested possessions, nine tackles and 100 KFC SuperCoach points in the Bulldogs’ elimination final loss to the Dockers. Before that, after building back up to speed after two ACL tears, McLean averaged 24 disposals, 14 contested possessions and 106 points in six VFL matches. Then there’s the 95-point averaged from 22 games in 2018. This season, he’s rookie-priced at an average of 30 in KFC SuperCoach.

Phantom’s March 8 verdict: The first half against the Roos was a concern, and the match as a whole confirmed his place outside of the Bulldogs’ on-ball unit. But I’m backing him in. The earlier verdict still stands – McLean doesn’t have to play as pure midfielder for you to pick him at the price.

3. Harry Sheezel
(NM, $198,300)
2022 SC Ave: 136

Practice match score: 72

Just about the most skilful player drafted last year, Sheezel can just do things others can’t. He dominated NAB League games as a forward, and opposition teams struggled to lay a hand on him when he was in the midfield. The early consensus was the talented teenager, who recorded three KFC SuperCoach double tons in 2022, would be used as a permanent forward in his debut season, but he impressed at half-back at various stages of both practice matches, tallying 10 disposals playing in defence in the last quarter alone against the Bulldogs. Assistant coach Leigh Adams compared Sheezel’s potential role across half-back to the way Nick Daicos was used last season and said it would be ‘Clarko’s call’.

Phantom’s March 8 verdict: $198k would be a lot to pay for a small-forward in his first season. But Sheezel is much more than that - even without the potential stints in defence, which could help raise his scoring floor in KFC SuperCoach. I keep thinking about what the similarly-freakishly-skilled Connor Rozee – who played in defence during his draft year – did in his debut season to average 77 points


4. Luke Pedlar
(Adel, $173,400)
2022 SC Ave: 72 (2022)

Practice match score: 56

Pedlar is flying this summer – and that’s from those in the know. He’s only played three matches in two years on the list, but he finally looks set to make his mark in 2023. After booting seven goals in the Crows’ final three SANFL matches last season, Pedlar has been a regular in attack over summer, with Adelaide set to add the 20-year-old’s explosiveness and penetrating left foot to a new-look forward-half this year. In the club’s qualifying final win over Norwood in the state league, Pedlar finished with three goals, eight tackles and 88 KFC SuperCoach points. A week earlier, he tallied 16 disposals, 10 score involvements and 115 SuperCoach points against Port.

Phantom’s March 8 verdict:He tackles, marks above his head, kicks long goals and can work up the ground and win the ball in space – Pedlar has the tools to score better than the average small-forward in KFC SuperCoach. Had 10 disposals and 56 points in just 55 per cent game-time against the Eagles and he’s likely to be given every opportunity to make his mark this year – Adelaide needs his speed and power. Unlikely to be a better player than the kid below, but he could be a more consistent scorer in 2023.

5. Mattaes Phillipou
(StK, $166,800, Mid)
2022 SC Ave: 144 (SANFL U18s)

Practice match score: 45

Phillipou, pick 10 in last year’s draft, was a KFC SuperCoach star as a junior, recording scores of 261, 215, 180, 178, 175, 166, 157, 156, 147, 144 and 141 in his two seasons playing SANFL under-18s. He models his game on Marcus Bontempelli, and he has the KFC SuperCoach scoring-ceiling to match. His future is as a dynamic midfielder, who kicks goals, but, as he proved in the practice matches, his aerial prowess, clean hands and general footy smarts have him ready to start inside-50 in Round 1.

Phantom’s March 8 verdict: Not far off being No. 4 – or higher – on this list after an impressive pre-season. Ross loves him but will he stay too close to goal? I’m still weighing it up.

NEXT IN LINE
Jye Menzie
(Ess, $154,200)
2022 SC Ave: 40 (2 games)

Practice match score: 62

After being overlooked in the 2021 draft, the talented small-forward moved across to the SANFL and booted 20 goals in his first eight games for South Adelaide. The Bombers then swooped in last year’s mid-season draft and Menzie kicked another 13 in eight VFL matches. The 20-year-old broke through for two senior appearances late in 2022, kicking one major and finishing with 49 points against the Tigers in the final round. The clever goalsneak booted three intra-club goals playing in the stronger Bombers team to continue an eye-catching pre-season.

Phantom’s March 8 verdict:Menzie has plenty of tricks and is another who’s right in the KFC SuperCoach frame. Didn’t kick a major against the Saints but still finished with 62 points, on the back of an equal-game-high six tackles.

Others to watch for: Sam Sturt, Ben King, Anthony Caminiti, Josh Bruce

 

[Presto]

KFC SuperCoach 2022 cheat sheet: Pick a team in 10 minutes
The AFL season is just around the corner, and that means another huge year of KFC SuperCoach. Follow this easy step-by-step guide to pick your own team and join the chase for $50,000.
Al Paton
March 10, 2023 - 4:00PM
News Corp Australia Sports Newsroom
SuperCoach
Haven’t picked a KFC SuperCoach team yet? We’ve done the work for you – follow this easy guide to challenge your mates for glory.
If you need a squad in even quicker time, use Intelligent Autopick to generate a squad instantly using our smart technology based on your preferences.
Remember to hit “save” when you’re done — and join a league with your mates to share the fun.
This guide is based on a pool of players that are most likely to succeed in KFC SuperCoach this year. You can add your own flavour but this is a good place to start.
A couple of things to note:
1. Some players are listed as dual-position which means they can be selected in either of their listed positions. For example a MID/FWD can be picked in the midfield or forward line.
2. The bottom-priced players listed here are based on the best information about which rookies will get early games – keep an eye on round 1 teams! For full profiles of all this year’s cheapies, check out the Rookie Bible.
If you haven’t already, sign up at supercoach.com.au then let’s get started!
DEFENCE
Pick two of these guys
James Sicily (Haw) $624,700
Tom Stewart (Geel) $604,000
Sam Docherty (Carl) $603,300
Jordan Dawson (Adel) $603,100
Bailey Dale (WB) $561,100
Angus Brayshaw (Melb) $550,300
Jordan Ridley (Ess) $504,300
Nick Daicos (Coll) $502,500
Pick this guy
Elliot Yeo (WC) $337,000
And this guy
Reuben Ginbey (WC) $171,300 DEF/MID
Pick four of these guys
Liam Jones (WB) $228,100
Josh Goater (NM) $192,700 DEF/MID
Tom Cole (WC) $182,300
Connor McKenna (Bris) $167,500
Josh Weddle (Haw) $130,800
Charlie Constable (GC) $123,900 DEF/MID
Lachie Cowan (Carl) $117,300
Alex Cincotta (Carl) $102,400 DEF/MID
MIDFIELD
Pick three of these guys
Rory Laird (Adel) $703,900
Clayton Oliver (Melb) $699,800
Lachie Neale (Bris) $676,200
Callum Mills (Syd) $642,400
Marcus Bontempelli (WB) $639,500
Jack Macrae (WB) $634,400
Christian Petracca (Melb) $618,600
Zach Merrett (Ess) $617,500
Andrew Brayshaw (Frem) $615,600
Patrick Cripps (Carl) $611,900
Jack Steele (StK) $604,400
Josh Kelly (GWS) $582,300
Pick one of these guys
Luke Davies-Uniacke (NM) $557,400
Bailey Smith (WB) $542,700
Tom Green (GWS) $534,600
Chad Warner (Syd) $532,700
Tom Mitchell (Coll) $528,600
And one of these guys
Jason Horne-Francis (Port) $348,800 MID/FWD
Will Setterfield (Ess) $348,200
Jacob Hopper (Rich) $332,000
Dom Sheed (WC) $332,000
James Worpel (Haw) $309,300
Pick this guy
Will Ashcroft (Bris) $202,800
And five of these guys
Cam Mackenzie (Haw) $180,300
Mattaes Phillipou (StK) $166,800 MID/FWD
Will Phillips (NM) $158,300
Campbell Chesser (WC) $123,900 DEF/MID
Matt Roberts (Syd) $123,900
Oskar Baker (WB) $123,900
Alwyn Davey (Ess) $117,300 MID/FWD
RUCKS
Pick two of these guys
Max Gawn (Melb) $622,100
Jarrod Witts (GC) $605,100
Tim English (WB) $581,000
Sean Darcy (Frem) $562,200
Brodie Grundy (Melb) $512,900
Rowan Marshall (StK) $506,500
Darcy Cameron (Coll) $465,900 RUC/FWD
And one of these guys
Esava Ratugolea (Geel) $174,000 RUC/FWD
Samson Ryan (Rich) $123,900 RUC/FWD
Nick Madden (GWS) $102,400 RUC/FWD
FORWARDS
Pick this guy
Josh Dunkley (Bris) $596,400 MID/FWD
And two of these guys
Stephen Coniglio (GWS) $557,700 MID/FWD
Zak Butters (Port) $529,400 MID/FWD
Dylan Moore (Haw) $521,000
Connor Rozee (Port) $513,800 MID/FWD
Tim Taranto (Rich) $503,100 MID/FWD
Pick one of these guys
Errol Gulden (Syd) $472,000 MID/FWD
Ben Cunnington (NM) $419,000 MID/FWD
Jack Ziebell (NM) $536,400 FWD
Nat Fyfe (Frem) $313,600 MID/FWD
Sam Flanders (GC) $256,300 MID/FWD
Pick this guy
Fergus Greene (Haw) $123,900
And three of these guys
Harry Sheezel (NM) $198,300
Toby McLean (WB) $178,900 MID/FWD
Ben King (GC) $176,300
Jye Menzie (Ess) $154,200
Sam Sturt (Frem) $123,900
Kade Chandler (Melb) $123,900
Charlie Comben (NM) $123,900
Anthony Caminiti (StK) $102,400
If you’ve picked a 30-man squad and still have cash in the bank, you can upgrade one or two positions to get better players in your team.
More likely you have run out of money with some positions still to fill. Don’t worry – just go back and downgrade one or two players to someone cheaper in the same price bracket or go down a grade, for example swapping a top-priced defender for Nick Daicos to free up $100,000, or a $500k midfielder to one of the good options in the $300-$350k price range.
You could even get creative and pick a dual-position player like Errol Gulden or Nat Fyfe in your midfield.
Once you’re happy, hit save!
You can make as many changes as you like before round 1, and even during the round thanks to the KFC SuperCoach rolling lockout. Players are locked as their teams play, so after 7.20pm on Thursday (AEDT) all Richmond and Carlton players are off limits but you can still trade or substitute anyone from the other 16 teams. On Friday night all Geelong and Collingwood players are locked, and so on.
At the start of the final game of the round – St Kilda v Fremantle at 4.40pm on Sunday – our final teams are set. From there we have 36 trades for the rest of the season, so don’t panic if you make a mistake, even the best KFC SuperCoach players get some of their starting picks wrong.
The next step is to join a league or create one to play against your friends and family – and push each other in the chase for the $50,000 grand prize. Good luck!
If you want more advice on picking a team, check out the articles below. And you can gain access to extra stats and tools, plus live scores once the season starts, by signing up for SuperCoach Plus.

 

[Presto]

KFC SuperCoach: Ultimate Champion Data pre-season formguide
The pre-season is over, now for the real thing. Champion Data’s KFC SuperCoach guru Fantasy Freako puts every club under the microscope and names the best picks for 2023.
Fantasy Freako
March 11, 2023 - 6:00AM
Who will make the cut when the selection committee meets to select your starting KFC SuperCoach team for 2023?
Champion Data’s KFC SuperCoach guru Fantasy Freako puts every team under the microscope and names the players to pick and avoid.
ADELAIDE
Jordan Dawson $603,100 DEF – Tick
Consistency was the key for Dawson last season – dropping below 90 just three times. He was also the only general defender to rate elite for disposals, intercept marks, and intercept possessions. He was also one of five Crows to hit three figures against the Eagles in the practice match – finishing with 26 disposals (23 effective), 551 metres gained and a team-high four intercept marks.
Rory Laird $703,900 MID – Tick
Paying top dollar for a player is a deterrent for some SuperCoaches, but you’re paying that price for a reason. Laird dropped below 120 just six times last season and had 130-plus points in half of his games. He was relentless against the Eagles – finishing with 32 disposals, 10 tackles and two goals, while also ranking second in the AFL for points per 100 minutes game time with 170.

Wayne Milera $386,000 FWD – Question mark

Milera has been training in defence all pre-season and looks set to feature in that role as early as round 1. He missed the recent practice match due to personal reasons, but it’s unlikely to affect his availability for the season opener. He is awkwardly priced though and didn’t reach any great heights in his 12 games last season – scoring above 80 points just twice.
BRISBANE LIONS
Josh Dunkley $596,400 MID/FWD – Tick

Only Will Ashcroft has a higher ownership in KFC SuperCoach than Dunkley at the time of writing. Dunkley solidified his SuperCoach selection in Brisbane’s practice match against the Cats, finishing with 31 disposals, 20 contested possessions, eight clearances, seven inside-50s, seven tackles and 146 points. Lock him in!

Conor McKenna $167,500 DEF – Tick

There is plenty of competition for places in defence at the Lions and McKenna is one of several vying for a defensive spot. He played the fifth-most minutes of any Lion against the Cats but didn’t set the world alight from a numbers perspective, tallying 11 effective disposals and 53 points. A solid pick, nonetheless, even if it is for the bench.

Will Ashcroft $202,800 MID – Tick

Ashcroft hasn’t missed a beat over the pre-season and has been the standout Lion across match simulation. He attended 13 centre bounces against the Cats – ranked third for the Lions – and also helped himself to 26 disposals, three clearances, three tackles and 96 KFC SuperCoach points. There are still 26 per cent of SuperCoaches without the Rising Star favourite at the time of writing.

CARLTON
Adam Saad $567,900 DEF – Tick

On the back of a career-best season, Saad is a POD for your defence. He averaged 98 points with Zac Williams last season and 108 without – and with the latter sidelined for the season with injury, could Saad replicate those numbers? Saad wasn’t at his best against the Swans, managing just 15 disposals, zero marks and 65 points, but don’t let that deter you.

Sam Docherty $606,300 DEF – Tick

When Docherty plays all 22 home-and-away games in a season he generally has an excellent year – averaging 108, 114, and 109, respectively. So, if you think he’ll play every game this season then he’s a more than worthy selection, even at his high price. Docherty led the way against the Swans with 34 disposals, 717 metres gained, 11 marks and 154 points.

Alex Cincotta $102,400 DEF/MID – Tick

Cincotta could be a round 1 bolter after a promising display against the Swans, finishing with 16 disposals (86 per cent disposal efficiency), 10 contested possessions and three inside-50s. Defensively, he was excellent and applied six effective tackles from six tackle attempts. He had just 16 points to his name at halftime but tallied a respectable 70 for the match.
COLLINGWOOD
Nick Daicos $502,500 DEF – Question mark

Not many players enjoy a breakout year in just their second season, but if anyone can to do it, then it would be Daicos. But in what could be a sign of things to come the Hawks sent Finn Maginness to Daicos, and he managed just 17 disposals, while he was also the only Magpie not to take a mark.

Darcy Cameron $465,900 RUC/FWD – Question mark

Cameron averaged 104 points per 100 minutes of game time when playing in the ruck last season – identical to Tim English. But the Magpies look set to use Mason Cox a lot more in that role based on the pre-season – Cox attended 48 ruck contests compared to Cameron’s 37 against the Hawks. Cameron still scored 97 points, but the job share must be somewhat of a deterrent.

Tom Mitchell $528,600 MID – Tick

For a team that ranked 17th for contested possession and clearance differential in 2022, Mitchell is exactly what the Magpies need. He won a team-high 16 contested possessions against the Hawks and finished with 28 disposals and six first possessions (three clearances). Mitchell just ticked over 100 points, but he did have 20 handballs and just 107 metres gained.
ESSENDON
Darcy Parish $610,800 MID – Question mark

If we take out Parish’s injury-affected 51 points against Carlton in round 13, then his 2022 season average would be 115, which is on par with Marcus Bontempelli. In saying that, how much do you read into his 54-point return against the Saints? He had a stinker and just couldn’t get into the game after a close tag, recording just six effective disposals and zero marks. A likely Finn Maginness tag in round 1 also puts me off somewhat.

Jye Menzie $154,200 FWD – Tick

A calf injury to Matt Guelfi has paved the way for Menzie to start the season in attack. He didn’t kick a goal against the Saints, but the Bombers only managed three goals for the match. Menzie was more productive from a defensive viewpoint, applying six effective tackles from seven tackle attempts while he also led the Bombers for forward-half pressure points.

Jordan Ridley $504,300 DEF – Tick

Essendon’s new game plan could play right in the hands of Ridley. He was involved in everything coming out of defence against the Saints, finishing with 27 disposals and 12 marks – both team highs. He also had nine intercept possessions and took two intercept marks for a team-high score of 128. Ridley is slightly underpriced based on what he could produce.

FREMANTLE
Nat Fyfe $313,600 MID/FWD – Question mark

The biggest question mark around Fyfe is his durability, after missing 26 matches through injury in the last three seasons. But, unlike previous seasons when we’ve paid top dollar for him, Fyfe begins this year at a heavily discounted price. He’s set for a forward role, finishing with three marks inside 50, three goals and eight score involvements against the Power.

Luke Jackson $465,500 RUC/FWD – Question mark

If you are starting one of Darcy Cameron or Tim English in the ruck, then it makes sense to have a RUC/FWD in attack as back-up. That brings Jackson into the mix, and despite not playing in the practice match against Port Adelaide he remains an option for the forwards. He’ll share the ruck duties with Sean Darcy, but Jackson has a lot more strings to his bow than just ruck work.

Hayden Young $508,200 DEF – Tick

Young is set to take the next step this year, scoring 100-plus points in four of his last seven games last season – averaging 24 disposals, two intercept marks and 102 points over this period. With Luke Ryan missing against the Power, Young wasn’t overly involved, tallying 19 disposals, three inside 50s and 79 points.

GEELONG
Tanner Bruhn $311,400 MID/FWD – Tick

Starved of midfield time at the Giants, Bruhn was unleashed against the Lions, finishing with 19 disposals, 11 contested possessions, five inside-50s and an equal game-high seven tackles. Bruhn also helped himself to a team-high 112 points from 77 per cent game time. A DPP, he’s an alternative to Jacob Hopper, Dom Sheed or James Worpel in the midfield, or you could even add Bruhn to that group and go with two.

Esava Ratugolea $174,400 RUC/FWD – Tick

The Cats threw Ratugolea into defence in the VFL last season and he grabbed 10 intercept marks and had 22 intercept possessions in his last two games. He now looks set to play that role, especially after the injury to Jack Henry. Ratugolea had a team-high eight intercept possessions and three intercept marks against the Lions, collecting 49 points from 10 disposals.

Jack Bowes $277,500 DEF – Question mark

After playing in defence in the past three seasons, Bowes has thrown his hat into the ring for a role in the Cats midfield. He played there in the unofficial practice match but missed last week’s encounter against Brisbane as they decided to manage his workload. Based on that alone, it remains to be seen if Bowes makes his Geelong debut in round 1. If he does, then that changes everything.

.