Discussion 2021: Detailed Pre-Season Player/Role Observations by Wogitalia & Others

[wogitalia]

So the FFC guys will know these but for those who don't I try to watch a lot of the preseason and then give my summary. So here is the first of the year!

First off, if anyone finds links to replays like the Essendon/Carlton game then post them here and I'll find some time for them!

Now for the Essendon vs Carlton game, I watched 3/4, a few guys were off by that point and I don't find a lot of benefit in watching once that's happened...

General - First off, man on the mark, I honestly didn't notice it much at all but I say this with the disclaimer that this was very much a scratch match, low intensity and very little structuring by either team so it's hard to see how it impacted on all of that but overall I barely noticed it and I was genuinely looking for it so that's a good sign. As stated, pretty low intensity game but both teams relatively strong sides so that's good for reading the positional stuff.

Finally, how bloody good was the commentary in this game, Cal Twomey and Riley Beveridge were just awesome! Pure football, analysis and insight and none of the Bruce style BS that ruins so many games. Utterly refreshing.

Essendon - I thought they were decent, bit sloppy at times going forward and certainly let the Blues rebound far too easily, which is a major concern, but I think they'd be happy, broke even at worst in the midfield and probably were slightly ahead which is pretty solid against a decent Blues midfield. I thought their defense was mostly pretty good, a lot of the Blues goals were a result of lacklustre transition defense and pressure on ball carriers but this was both sides and it's hard to read much more into it.

Draper - Really solid hitout for him, he looks good. He's 50k from being a really strong option but I think he can score well, Essendon had a very genuine ruck split and he dominated it (for the half he played) and was the better ruck for mine. Did some nice things but realistically I think he's still a couple of years away from potential premium levels.

Parish - Not fantasy relevant for mine but played well in a predominantly midfield role. He felt like the most fringe of the midfield group other than maybe Shiel so would have to think he's perhaps the guy who falls out with McGrath back but he played well.

Langford - Have talked him up and he did absolutely nothing to sway me away from him. Averaged 94 over his last 5 last year when he seemed to get more midfield time (anyone with evidence to the contrary/in support please feel free to add!) and his role was excellent in this one, basically the 4th midfielder from what I saw and he was just everywhere. Love that he marks, tackles and can hit the scoreboard as well as get the ball. He's probably my favourite in his price range right now. Big tick.

Smith - Shame he's not a forward, looks cherry ripe. Not fantasy relevant outside maybe LOL where he's a chance to get FWD status if his role remains like this. Was playing the high HF role he excelled at with GWS but mostly just moving so much better this year which is great to see.

Caldwell - His role was really good, he was really solid. I'm not sure if he moved the needle much for me, he's the pick at his price that I can find with a couple of others and this game just confirmed that. Hard to read his role with Shiel playing such a peripheral role (basically out there for a trot it seemed) and no McGrath who both would be ahead of him I'd think. That said, that he's next in line or ahead of them says a lot. I came away with as many questions as answers though but he's a must watch next game where hopefully McGrath is involved and either Shiel nixes him or again plays HF to confirm as much as possible on Caldwell's role.

Merrett - He moved way up my list, I'd kind of been shading him as I have an irrational love of him as a player but his role was absolute perfection, #1 midfielder in the clearances where his exceptional tackling really stood out and his ball use just is so good which when it becomes a contested handball pushes him so much higher in SC and he still is just beyond elite at finding space. Reactionary but he's worked into my team for now, genuinely could go #1 midfielder this year in that role with his skillset. Same role that he was playing to my eye to end last year when he stormed home.

Shiel - As mentioned, seemed to be playing HF and completely disinterested in the game. Did almost nothing. Not fantasy relevant to me anyway.

Cox - The shock to me, I mean this in the best possible way but strong Cale Morton flash backs to him and I mean the Cale Morton who put up 61 as a rookie and then 84 his second season not the one who ran away from Lade and fell off a cliff afterwards, reckon Cox is very capable of being somewhere in that range, at a guess he looked to be a 70+ rookie to me. He's very slim but so tall and seemed to always find space and work onto the lead for his teammates, the perfect modern winger essentially and he was one of the Bombers best for mine. He was by far the best of the guys roaming through the wing and alongside Langford is their only midfielder who presents any kind of marking target so I think he's a very strong odds to be in the team round 1 with solid JS and exceptional scoring potential. To me he looked a must have and start on field rookie. Very impressed.

Ridley - Started slowly and looked off the pace but he built into the game nicely. The aforementioned lack of structure from either team had him very limited in intercept work but took almost every kick-in, demanding them even, and he looked alright despite the preseason injury. Going to leave him out of my team on my no bad preseason rule but he looked good.

Perkins - Very slight but moves really well. Wouldn't shock me if he's named round 1 but think both the scoring and JS would be underwhelming which given the premium price makes it a "pure necessity" type of pick.

Hurley - Showed up on crutches and the way he was moving he looks an awfully long way off.

Hind - Really solid, good option in draft leagues, think he's about 70k too expensive for SC purposes but I'll be watching very closely still in the next game as he did some really nice things and the rebounding half back is a really solid role.

Wright - He's also probably about 70k too expensive. Didn't look any different to the GC version, which puts him at the 65-70 range, was solid as the backup ruck and that was clearly his role with both the rucks and he's best 22 but priced at 54 is just a bit high. If he was a R/F I think he might be worth it but not as is as I don't think you would field him comfortably.

Heppell - Impressively unimpressive. He looked fit, moved well and did some nice things but also didn't do enough of anything. Still think he's a very strong pick at his price though with proven scoring history.

Jones - Really impressive as what I would call the main KPF. He moves well and presents well and was very adept at finding holes to lead into. At his price he's a really solid bench rookie option if picked round 1. I think he was better than Hooker but whether they'd pick him ahead of him is the main question.

Bryan - Not fantasy relevant barring injury to Draper but he looks a terrific ruck prospect. Needs to add a good 10kg, possibly more, but if he can do that and keep the mobility he could be an outstanding ruckman. Great followup work and already ahead of some first team rucks around the ground with solid skills. Really impressive. Kind of guy I'd love for Sydney to target this o***eason with the lure of the #1 role.

Cahill - Really solid role off half back. Looks a solid 60-65 type who will probably have a couple of 90+ type games to push his price. Really solid rookie option and worth the premium to me assuming he wins the role.

Ham - Not fantasy relevant but he played a great game, disposal was suspect but workrate was terrific.

Guelfi - Another who is probably not fantasy relevant but if he plays like he did in this one there is at least a question there. Seemed to be on the wing and really enjoyed the space.

Waterman - I wasn't as impressed with him as I thought I'd be based on the thread. He was solid and did some nice things and would be a solid option depending on what's happening with Stringer but I'd like to see a bit more in the next match.

 

[wogitalia]

Had to do two parts as apparently there's a word limit

Carlton - They were the better finishing side, they generally managed to execute the kick inside 50 a lot better and that was the difference in the game. Solid hitout for them and with few injuries probably a pretty reliable look at how they'll line up.

Dow - Excellent role, solid game. In that role he's worth the price and would be a very good on field rookie choice. If he can back the role and the performance up he'd be a must start I think. Looks to have matured a lot physically, has a core through the middle that has been lacking and covered the ground a lot better which he always seemed to struggle. Mostly though he's an inside midfielder who has played everywhere but inside midfield and getting to play his only real position made a world of difference. I'm working on a structure with him in it off the back of this but was already firmly on my watchlist.

SPS - Playing half back, looked nice, enjoyed the lack of physicality immensely. I still really rate him as a player but think there are too many cooks for him to be any chance at the Blues of SC relevance. Could be a really solid draft pickup though. Took a couple of kick-ins.

Williams - Impressively unimpressive also. I thought he looked a lot better as a forward than he did as a midfielder which is a real concern and a real positive at the same time. He scored very decently as a forward, reckon he had 4 marks and a goal and they were good marks but I doubt that's there in the real stuff and he did nothing of any real note in the midfield. Has been in and out of my teams and this game hasn't helped me. What I will say is his midfield balance was what I wanted to see, he got plenty of time there.

Fogarty - Shame he's so expensive because he was really good and his role was very decent. Similar role to Dev Smith for the Bombers and reckon he'd have pushed the 80+ range projecting his 3/4 I saw out. Too expensive for mine.

Cripps - Looked fantastic. Moving better, marking better, just better. Locked.

Docherty - Had the loosest role defensively and took a few kick-ins but very much a committee approach to those so not a net positive. He seemed to have the main intercept role, as much as there was one, but Saad was very clearly the main rebounder to me. This game did absolutely nothing to move me on him, just so hard to read.

Walsh - Delightful role, absolutely perfect role for what I wanted from him. Very much back in the mix for me and looked fantastic. He didn't even seem all that prolific but I reckon he'd have gone 100+ if there were stats, must have had a half dozen marks from working to space, a few tackles, a couple of clearances. Just ticking boxes which given his durability to date makes him such an appealing choice. He's a Jack Macrae type to me with a similar ceiling, I don't think the 120 mark is beyond him in that role. Averaged 118 in his last 8 after the bye when he moved into this role and honestly I think that's not unreasonable for him.

Martin - Saw nothing to suggest he's anything different to what he's been for seemingly forever now. Goes missing for huge periods, oozes class when he's in the play.

Fisher - Deep forward to my eye. Not fantasy relevant in that role.

Pittonet - Seemed well beaten to me which given the age of his opponents isn't a great sign. There's probably a bit of value there with an o***eason as the #1 but I don't think there's enough value.

Williamson - Clear role off half back. The Blues looked very settled down back in general.

Newnes - Seemed to be off half back as well but not sold where his actual starting position was, was a bit of everywhere.

Curnow - Pure wing role for him, which is what you want to see if thinking about Cripps and/or Walsh. Not sure how long it lasts but seeing him with a role that you wouldn't waste time with him in unless he's playing it is a great sign.

Saad - Clearly their main rebounding defender and he honestly was really good. Still has a tendency to run too far, burn his forwards and then have to bomb it long but he also hit a few nice targets when he turned the brain on before running and was just always lurking ready for the cheap touches. I still don't get the price they paid for him, at all, but as someone who doubted he could back up his average I actually am singing a slightly different song that he might be capable of it.

Setterfield - Also on a very clear wing role, didn't see him leave the wing at all, drifting defensively primarily, used it better than I expected he would, even taking a kick-in. More strong support for Williams, Walsh and Cripps' roles this season and helps them. I don't think they'd be playing those two guys on the wings if it wasn't the plan.

Think that's all the fantasy relevant guys but if you want thoughts on anyone else, feel free to ask!

 

[Blaze]

Port v crows reserves playing now...will keep updating this post through the 2 games

Reserves Game

By my count each team has 12 AFL listed players

Crows - Berry, Pedlar, OÇonnor, Strachan, Thilthorpe, Himmelberg, Worrell, Newchurch, Hinge, Borlase, Gollant, Davis

Port - Mead, Williams, Sutcliffe, Lienert, Goldsack, Mayes, Schofield, Bugoyne, Lord, Woodcock, Hayes, Garner

Berry, Pedlar, O'Connor the starting mids ....Berry ($177,300 MID) by far the standout mid thus far he looks readier than pedlar who has been quieter and o'connor has issues with his ball use from what i have seen. Berry didn't play in Q3 reported a leg issue but he was back in Q4. May get a chance next week as the crows seniors have been well beaten in the mids today

Q1 comment....Thilthorpe ($202,800 RUC/FWD)has done some nice things but can't see any sc relevance from the key tall.....OK ignore my sc irrelevant comment went early there..... like insert the Anchorman GIF as this has escalated quickly! boy oh boy he has been good in q3 he has had it on a string! ..his skills for a 200cm guy on both side of the body on the run and he has had plenty of it this quarter easily BOG by a mile. If essendon fans are up and about regarding cox well i raise you the Filth! Based on this performance in the third quarter alone Thilthorpe must play round1 Finished with 4 goals.

Strachan $146,700 RUC/FWD is a capable big man if ROB is injured.

Ben Davis $191,800 FWD was taking kick ins and playing the backline quarterback role. He did his ankle in q1 so is likely done for the day. He likely doesn't play seniors but you never know what happens throughout the year and the take away is he will have a fantasy relevant role if he ever plays in the 1s.

Worrell ($123,900 DEF/FWD)....is AFL ready. I wouldn't hesitate in picking him as a downgrade option if he gets an opportunity this year which i think we will at some point.

Newchurch ($102,400 MID/FWD) has serious x factor but is very raw. I really hope this kid makes it as he will light up the adelaide oval if he does. They might chuck him a debut late in the season but unlikely SC relevant

Port team i am not as familiar with but i will have a go...

Youngsters Goldsack, Sutcliffe and Mayes in the port team haha

Boyd Woodcock has gone the peroxide hair and racked it up in the mids

one of Ports best early for mine has been son of crows legend Wayne Weideman. He isn't AFL listed but has been great at CHF.

Ollie Lord showed a bit in q 1 but he is clearly a developing key position player only

taj schofield finds the footy - i wouldn't expect he is near the round 1 team but he gets plenty of it.

Sam Hayes has a few years under his belt now and looked pretty good - i think Strachan shaded him though

dylan williams has kicked a classy goal but i haven't heard his name much - he seems permanently fwd.

burgoyne - there is some skills there. i doubt he plays be he certainly looks an exciting player

I started to notice Jackson Mead a bit more ass the game went with a much better second half but with Ports depth he hasn't got me excited about picking him as a downgrade option during the year with any confidence

General thoughts

Crows were up by 25 and port came home hard

Crows - 9.12 - 66
Port - 6.16 - 52

The difference between the AFL listed and top up players is generally very noticable. It is quite a scrappy game but there is no doubt everyone is having a crack.

This new kick in rule is going to see plenty of balls landing in the centre square...crows have noticebly been trying this today

Also many of the new 50m penalty rule infringements in the 2s...the young guys struggling to adjust more maybe?

SENIORS GAME

Q1 - Plenty of goals and an entertaining game but not a lot to excite from an SC perspective - certainly looks up a level after watching the practice game. Again i will update this as I go...

Q2 - port kick away....they are a class above the crows who have showed glimpses - the injury to Milera and the eye catching form of Butters the 2 take aways for me thus far.

Q3 - this is turning into a spanking which should lower the stocks of the crows SC mid price candidates like Sholl - he could be a good scorer in a top 4 team but doesn't find his own footy so he is unlikely to get enough of it

Milera - getting loads of CBAs and mid time but to be honest i don't think he has had a decent touch. I like his fantasy game much more as a half back and not liking what i see thus far. Not seen in Q2 -Matt Turner on twitter said he limped off and being reported as a patella injury... not good for the crows or for him as a starting pick this year. My guess is that Mitchell Hinge comes in like for like

Frampton and Tex - both look great - Crows looking much better forward of the footy this year when they get it in there - key tall backs though...urrrghghhhh poor young fellas (Butts and McAsey) are in for a tough year! Cameron and Hawkins could kick 15 in round one!

Laird and ROB - doing as expected

Rowe - looks lively enough and has a clear role even though he didn't really see it in the second half a port dominated - seems safe in the R1 team and safe for SC team benches as the crows early draw should see them more in the contest most weeks that they are against Port today.

Hately unseen in Q1 first CBA in Q2...showing some nice hands in the contest but largely underwhelming as an SC pick - seems a fantasy trap to me

Schoenberg - cheaper than hately and a fwd - a better SC pick if going a crows mid pricer (which I'm not) has showed more than any other young mid in this game for the crows and looks like no second year blues for him. he does play fwd a fair bit though but more mid time in the second half

Sholl - owns a wing spot this year - some nice touches in Q2 but as stated above - I don't think he sees enough of it as the crows will have the footy a lot less that their opposition in 2021

Sloane - plenty of mid time and looking fit, not sure if he will average his historical highs though i think that time may be gone

Nick Murray fighting for a list spot - on in Q2 - he is mature key defender albeit a bit undersized Butts/McAsey up against it and Talia injured going into round 1 - i expect he does enough to get a spot

Tex - SC irrelevant but look at my avatar - i love the great man! plenty of good footy in him yet

Port

Rozee - pure fwd - along with his foot concerns not sure he is relevant to start now - apparently he also went off limping in q2 (matt Turner on twitter) but he was back on field after this was reported. he still showed a bit up forward as port got on top - will feast on some lower teams this year

Butters - hmmmm looks pretty silky, lots of possessions in space and playing as mid (not sure on CBAs)- like his game....Ok really liking as the game goes on he is looking really good. Might being looking for a way to work him into my team soon he is the story of the day so far for me he is certainly going up the watchlist. I wish we could see him against some better opposition and Gray isn't playing so he may have got more mid time but......... again insert anchorman GIF.......he is now in my draft team!

Jones - apparently he is out there - the other mullet (DBJ) is the one getting the footy though....oh there he is - my god he is a man child! they have given him plenty of game time but I haven't seen anything to make me think he is our defensive rookie saviour this year - he did work into it a lot more in the second half. Might be starting 6 premo defenders at this rate!

Bergman - not seen in Q1 then came on the ground, looking like a player ready for afl - i would have thought he is more likely to play in the seniors than jones at this stage and he also worked into it more in the second half - will be on the fringe

Final score

Port 18.17 125

Crows 11.7 73

A dirty day for the crows with the injury to Milera a real sour note

 

[McLovin]

I've watched most of the 2nd and 3rd quarters of the GWS-Swans game. Wet, scrappy and the the players have been going at it very hard for a practice game. Swans were really on top for most of the 3rd quarter.

Hopper and Green stood out more to me than Taranto, and that's kinda the problem with that GWS midfield. What does Taranto post shoulder injury offer that Hopper/Green/Coniglio/Kelly don't? I saw Greene up around the midfield a bit too. For me Kelly's the only reliable premium scorer of the bunch.

Mills was definitely playing 100% midfield and looked good doing it. Plenty of tackles and taps to advantage when he wasn't getting the ball.
Campbell definitely takes the game on, not sure yet whether he'll get enough of the ball to justify his price.

 

[wogitalia]

Demons vs Tigers

General - Seemed a much more intense game than the Bombers game to me. Strong wind to one end meant we got more idea of structures and also that guys really only had half a game each to score if they were at the ends. I watched 3/4 as is my norm, don't think anything that happened after that point is changing my thoughts.

I again didn't notice anything with the man on the mark rule. Short probably at the very top of the list of guys I'd expect benefit from it and it really wasn't noticeable even with him.

Tigers - Very strong team, missing Lambert and Prestia who do influence things but I think we got a pretty good read. Looked the same as always, Lynch still an asshole on the field, lots of flopping and moving the ball with speed and no real intention to retain possession as much as field control, they looked solid.

Vlastuin - Same old role, he's likely to be an almost premium but still think he could with a couple of big games throughout the year.

Martin - Role was solid but he was definitely going at preseason pace and his role was better than his performance for sure. Looked fit though and good to see him out there.

Ross - Not relevant other than maybe draft leagues but he looked really good and seemed to be the clear 4th mid after Edwards, Martin and Cotchin to me.

Castagna - I hadn't given him a seconds thought really but he was everywhere, HF pushing way up the ground. I'd say he was playing Lambert's role though so not going overboard but he sure looked like he could push the 90 mark in that role. Can't pick a guy with that head though.

Short - Same old, think he's a strong mid 90s pick with a chance to go up or down based on big/small games. Represents a decent starting punt.

Lynch - Still deep forward mostly, not fantasy relevant in that role.

Nankervis - Was really solid out there against an overwhelming opponent. Just looks good as the sole ruck.

Bolton - Terrible role, seemed to be playing genuine forward pocket with tiny bursts on the ball and looked all out of sorts in that role as he has for most of his career. Would need to see something vastly different next week to even consider him myself.

Martyn - He looked really good. Probably gets pushed out by Prestia and Lambert but he definitely threw down the gauntlet to Graham and Ross for what is probably one spot in the side. Liked the look of him and expect he plays a few games this year. Whether he can lock down a spot for round one is the big question.

Ralphsmith - Probably the most impressive from a fantasy perspective to me from the Tigers. Playing off HB and very active and involved. Obviously the issue is Houli out but if he looked like missing the first month I think Ralphsmith stamped his name in that opening and he looks very capable of producing good fantasy numbers. Shame that there really isn't an opening there outside Houli as he's not going to jump ahead of Short, Baker or Vlastuin.

Demons - Fairly strong side for them as well, obviously missing forwards but they'll be out a while and seeing how they use their stars to plug gaps is vital knowledge given that. Brayshaw and Viney the main names missing who may or may not impact the other mids, god only knows with Goodwin... They looked decent to me.

May - Took a lot of the kick-ins and looked really, really good. I think there's a bit too much happening down back for him to hit premium numbers but he's going to be close if he plays like this.

Salem - Same story as May basically.

Harmes - Role was really good and I think he outplayed the role from a performance point of view which is even better. They were talking up how big his preseason has been and he really did cover some yardage. Brayshaw and Viney are the obvious huge question marks, he was their 3rd mid though in this one which bodes well as he's at least in the mix. Hopefully can get a better idea next game but as someone who hadn't strongly considered him he definitely put his name on my board with this one.

Petracca - Role was really poor but he still was dominant and to be fair Oliver also had a similarly poor role so it's hard to judge if they were out there as much for the run as anything or if they're genuinely planning to use them like that. Basically he'd take the centre bounce and then drift to HF with bursts on the ball. Don't want to be negative as he looked brilliant out there but that's not a role that pretty much anyone can put up midfield premium numbers in consistently, basically a Martin like role and Martin has maxed out in the low 100s in that role, as good as Petracca is to expect him to be significantly better than Martin in that role is an enormous ask. Want to see something very different next week.

Jackson - Still not sure what his future role is but he moves so well for the size. Problem is he doesn't seem to be able to use it for much still.

Lever - Was a standout for the Demons, still bad by foot quite often but intercepting everything that Gawn didn't get to first. Probably more of a draft option but he certainly could push the 90s in that role.

Gawn - Enormous, must have had about 120 at half time if we were scoring. Would have had probably 8-10 contested marks and just dominant in the air. He rested forward which was an interesting change and took a couple of nice big marks in the F50, also looked to push forward. Still not active enough in F50 stoppages for mine but that's a minor quibble. His work defensively was also terrific. Playing like that the 130+ is definitely sustainable.

Oliver - His role kind of gives me a bit more hope with Petracca as he was quite similar to be honest. More midfield but still going forward for large stints. Did some nice things and I couldn't tell his preseason was interrupted except for it being a possible reason why he was forward as much. Think it's probably a case of wanting to give the fringe guys a bigger chance to stamp their positions than anything related to the guns (I hope?). Oliver didn't offer much up forward which is a good/bad thing, Petracca in comparison was beastly.

Jordon - Role was solid but I'm not sure he really took the opportunity. If I was looking for the guys holding the spots up he'd be at the top of the list. That he got the chance is still a really good sign and will hopefully build on it. Not saying he was poor or anything just that with the role he had you're hoping for more of a Dow type output where they demand it long term rather than kind of just being there. Still at his price if he ends up in the mix he's in play.

McDonald - Was very impressive, working a lot higher and a lot more involved. Looked a lot more like the 2018 version than he has the last two years. Don't think he's worth the risk but could be a good late flyer in draft leagues.

Hunt - A very interesting option to me. Playing off HB where he's been a solid 70+ guy previously and is cheap enough that he could pay off with that. He's the guy that exists if the rookies fall to pieces up forward but otherwise wouldn't look at but he's a name to keep in the bag in that scenario.

Sparrow - Similar to Jordon really, which given they're competing for what is likely the same spot is good for both I guess. He was underwhelming and didn't do enough to grab the chance but he's in the mix.

Baker - Shame about his price and/or position because he was everywhere. Looks to have added to his tank substantially and just owned his wing. Must have been close to 75 range in the first half for DT, just seemed to be getting a lot of marks in space and tackling everything when he didn't have it. Too much of a punt at 290k when you'll be one of about 5 people who've picked him but wouldn't shock me if he pushes 90+ based on his role and performance. Strong draft league option.

Chandler - For me the most impressive Demon other than Gawn from a fantasy perspective. Playing small forward, which is obviously bad, but he was excellent and put his name at the top of the class for the position which is certainly in play. Melksham, Pickett and a couple of others are obviously missing but he was just really good. 160k is an awkward price and I think he's a "no other options" type value because of the role but he'd have put up probably an 80+ pace from what I saw. Deceptively good mark for his size, seems to have a really neat left foot on him and goes at 100mph when applying pressure. Reminded me a lot of a young Papley when he burst on the scene. Reckon he's got a spot to lose on the back of that game.

 

[McLovin]

I watched most of the Freo-WC game from a few minutes into the 1st quarter to 3QT. Freo dominated on the scoreboard which probably doesn't mean a lot. West Coast's second/third string midfield couldn't get their hands on it at all around the contest, whereas Freo really dominated most aspects of the game as it went on. Here's what I saw from a few players:

Duggan- got plenty of it on the outside and applied a bit of pressure, rotated between midfield and wing in the first half. Moved to half back for most of the 3rd quarter which might be a worry with only a couple of mid and wing rotations. I'm still a sceptic, and particularly don't like his chances of continuing to get time around the contest based on that performance. If your direct opponent keeps coming away with the ball and you're not winning it yourself, you're doing something wrong.

Gaff- standard game with a few mid rotations.

Witherden- pretty typical Witherden performance. On the positive side he's lost a bit of weight and potentially gained some pace, and they're clearly looking to get the ball into his hands. However, if he keeps turning it over at this rate I doubt Simpson will be so keen to let Witherden run around demanding the ball. There were plenty of classic Witherden passages of play- demand cheap handball receive and turn it over, one-two and turn it over, my favourite was his score assist to Freo immediately followed by a goal assist to Freo from the kickout. The issue isn't his ability to rack up the ball, it's how long West Coast will remain patient with him.

Liam Ryan- did his usual thing plus a couple of mid and wing rotations, roamed up the ground occasionally. West Coast have more small forward options than they know what to do with which may allow Ryan more scope for a freer role this season, the problem is that at this stage none of them are half as dangerous close to goal as Ryan.

Fyfe- completely dominant without putting in much of an effort. Don't tempt me...

Luke Ryan- very quiet, then apparently copped a hit to the back. I wasn't worried before, but Cox, Pearce and Hamling were all prominent at times which might be a concern for Ryan's ability to rack up marks. Some of their ball use was pretty bad though and I find it hard to believe Cox is preferred to Logue.

Young- I hardly noticed him in the first half, started to get his hands on it in the 3rd and really do some damage with his kicking.

Treacy- took some nice marks and looked mobile for his size when he was on the ground, which I don't think was very often.

Meek- the real surprise from the match. Ruck work was good, aggressive in the air and on the ground. He looked to do all the things Darcy doesn't outside the ruck contest and unlike Darcy he doesn't look like he's going to pull something if he gets out of a slow jog. Definitely worth watching in their next game.

 

[wogitalia]

Hawks vs Bulldogs

General - This one was awfully hard to watch, it felt like it was recorded on a 1980s camera or a mid 2000s camera phone or something and while the commentators were still better than Bruce, BT and Derm types they weren't good, genuinely was difficult to make out who players were and what was happening a lot. Game itself was middling intensity and it seemed to be quite windy impacting skills (I'm being kind). Watched 3/4.

Hawks - Missing Mitchell, Shiels, Burgoyne and Wingard so it's kind of hard to read a lot into things but they don't look very good. For a team famous for their skills for so long I'd be surprised if they're not in the worst couple of teams now in that area and they don't really look average in any area. They were pretty combative though to their credit.

Morrison - Actually a very interesting one, he seemed to get a fair bit of it to me and as a defender for SC purposes that actually makes him interesting. Still don't think he's relevant but will watch his role to try and gauge exactly what it was.

Impey - Off HB, kicking left more than a little bit to be desired, did take a couple of kick-ins but it was a legitimate nearest man system which given no one can really kick probably makes sense. He looked fit and sharp, was doing a good job coming off the back for the cheap handball receive which is what you want to see. Definitely a strong starting option, especially if none of the bargains make the cut.

Worpel - Everywhere, looked really good. Hard to read with the outs but he has a real talent for finding the ball, both inside and out, unfortunately he still has a real talent for kicking it to nowhere as well which kind of undermines that first skill. He's interesting because his contested nature should make him a better SC type but his disposal probably more than cancels it out. He's a guy I'm interested in more in DT to be honest.

McEvoy - 1st ruck, resting forward. Makes him a very interesting pick. If Clarko could be trusted to just leave him there he'd be a very strong option, especially for anyone wanting to go aggressive in the rucks and field Flynn. There was nothing special or different about how he played, reckon he's still the same old mid 90s scorer as a ruck but at 85 I reckon a 95 would do as the D5 and the ruck coverage could certainly boost the effective average he gives you, doesn't share the bye with Grawndy either. Colour me intrigued.

O'Meara - Same same from him. Was such a prodigious talent when he burst on the scene that I'm always hoping maybe he can become the player he looked like being but still sloppy with his disposal and still not working enough away from contests.

Day - He's the one special kid down back for them. Given what they've surrounded him with he really should average 110 this year as the only guy who should be kicking it out of defense consistently and who should be taking all the kick-ins. Doesn't seem to quite have the confidence yet to demand it off the others though so think he ends up in a nowhere land of scoring somewhere mid 80s, probably storms home as he grows into it though.

Hanrahan - He had a really solid game playing as a HF, I don't like the role at his price but he has to be a good shot at locking down the spot. Think he'd struggle to generate real cash though and there are better options.

Phillips - A much more inside role, still can't kick from what I saw. Probably fits in the Worpel description, more contested isn't going to cancel out the inability to hit targets but as a forward the threshold is a lot lower and there's no real reason he can't push 100 in that role. In a weird way he grew a bit for me with this role/game despite basically being exactly what I know him to be. We probably don't get any indicator of Wingard/Mitchell/Shiels impact on this role but given the other wingers performance I'm actually not sold he's needed there so this is probably his role. Watching with intent next week.

Howe - Thought he was really solid on a wing, presented nicely as a marking target a few times, used the ball well at 280k with terrible durability and no scoring history I'm not sure he's really relevant but wouldn't shock me if he's mid 80s and works out as what would have been a really solid starting pick in hindsight.

Ceglar - Clear 2nd ruck forward, the real question is whether he's a better forward than the other talls or at least close enough for his ruck advantage to matter.

Breust - Don't think he's relevant but had some decent mid time, was so much better up forward though so should stay there more. He's one of the very few elite mid-sized forwards who don't seem to be great midfielders.

O'Brien - Think he'd be the better 2nd ruck for McEvoy's fantasy purposes. He was better than Ceglar as a forward in this one.

Cousins - Really solid role, shame it couldn't have gone to someone at a more appealing price. He played well, good option in deeper draft leagues, could push mid 90s.

Hartigan - Was really solid, important because he keeps McEvoy from being needed.

Jiath - He's that ultimate looks like a million bucks until he has to make a decision player. His kicking looks fine but every time the camera pans out after he's kick there is no Hawk anywhere to be seen and he just seemed to lace the Dogs out all day. The couple of times he was rushed out of a decision and the couple of times he had all day he was fine but any time he was in between and had to make choices he just seemed to muff it. There's a player in there, technically his kicking is actually very nice which is why I feel it's decisions that are the issue, and he moves brilliantly and showed some good courage and did some nice things in the air. There's possibly even a fantasy value here but I know if I was a Hawk's fan I'd be on edge every time he gets it

Greaves - Was rock solid down back for mine. He's not the talent Day is but I see a lot of a Vlastuin, Sheppard or Mills super balanced defender in him, kind of guy whose man hates his day but Greaves still manages to do some damage. He's the kind of guy who plays 200+ games as a defender and is just safe as houses. Really like him. Don't think he's fantasy relevant despite how well he scored last year.

Koschitzke - (Have to learn to spell that damn name again) I thought he was decent. Limited chances because if the half backs weren't turning it over on the rebound kick, the midfielders were on the inside kick so it's a tough day and I think it's going to be a long season for the KPF for the Hawks. What I liked is he was still active when the ball hit the ground, had one fantastic tackle that stood out but he moves well. I like him in essentially Gunston's spot until he's back and think he puts pressure to stay in if he can remain active. He's as pure a bench rookie as there is but I think he's a good chance of at least being there round one.

Moore - Seemed to be playing HF with a few bursts on the ball which I think is his likely role in the real stuff. Didn't do enough at his price to make me want to gamble, still like the player though, just not for fantasy this year. Kind of guy I'll be drafting in the last few rounds in any draft leagues, particularly a keeper league.

Grainger-Barras - Came on after HT so I saw a quarter and I barely noticed him, about the only play was a free kick where he got caught ball watching. Not in the starting team and not standing out probably not great indicators of his job security, especially given the premium he's going to cost.

Downie - Leaving the best for last, his first quarter was pretty awful (not sure he had a kick) but his 2nd quarter was exceptional and his 3rd was really good. Solid size, really smooth mover (bit of Josh Kelly to him) and, in complete rarity here, looks a great kick. Was surprised by a couple of marks he took but genuine overhead skills. Clarko should just give it up if he messes around with giving him games. He's clearly in their best 15 players already and looks a genuinely special talent to me, pick 35 looks an absolute gift. Played a pure wing role. Some mullet on the kid as well. Very strong on-field rookie for mine.

Brockman - Loved what I saw, disliked how little of it I saw. Difficult role as a small forward but he's one of those "got time" players already, just has the time to make the better choice and consistently did it when he got near it. I think he's a really strong chance of basically filling Puopolo's spot from last year, I think it's going to be a very difficult fantasy role though but he's cheep as chips and a really nice F8 option for mine.

 

[wogitalia]

Got 10,000 worded again

Bulldogs - Missing Treloar and Macrae, similar to the Hawks it makes reading anything out of this somewhat meaningless but will try anyway because I'm an obstinate fool with too much free time Dogs were solid overall, looked really nice off half back, looked a bit more uncertain going inside 50, so they looked like the Dogs...

Bont - Just trotting around racking up touches. Spent more time forward than I'd have liked, especially from about midway through the 2nd onward but he looks fit and he was clearly their #1 midfielder when he was in there.

Dunkley - As I said without Treloar and Macrae... BUT his role was delicious, I barely noticed him forward, everytime he was on the ball he was prolific, wouldn't be at all surprised if he had 10 tackles. Looks fit and ready to fire. I haven't been the biggest fan of him as a pick and I don't want to jump the gun but if his role can withhold those two then he's just an easy starting pick (now to squeeze him in!).

Smith - Solid role, Easton Wood was clear he'd push onto the wing when not playing in the guts as they love his speed and ball use (Bont will push forward in the same chat). Don't think this is his year in fantasy but he's a gun.

Hunter - Pure wing role. DT relevant probably, SC a bit more doubtful. He's what we think he is and looked locked in his spot which I don't think changes.

Martin - Looked really fit and was the main ruck, probably 60/40 split. Rested forward at times. Tempting price but I'm still not sold on the JS or scoring potential being there. Next week when we get the actual score will be interesting, he had several nice hitouts to my eye.

Libba - Really solid game. Just everywhere. Looks fit. I have no idea where he fits in, he's arguably their best inside mid with his clean hands and tackling. This midfield is such a puzzle.

McNeil - He was the real surprise packet for me, I'd heard all the other names that popped up but not his. 102k mid playing as a HF with a few bursts up to the wing and a bit of time deeper forward. He looked a really good player and seemed to have a well defined role. It's not a great role but he showed an ability to impact the game and between tackling and deceptive marking I think he can roll it over. Probably a similar type to Vandermeer last year. Would be a decent M11 pick, imo, if he makes the round 1 cut. It will be interesting to see whether it's the lower rung guys who go out like McNeil who played defined roles in the game or the lower rung midfield guys like Lipinski.

Lipinski - Speaking of, he was really solid. Good role and, as he always does, played well in that role. Not sure if he gets pushed out of the role at the expense of a McNeil type or out of the team.

Dale - Really solid as a forward.

Daniel - Absolutely everywhere. Took just about every kick-in, one-two everywhere, used it brilliantly for the most part. Nothing to suggest he can't repeat or even improve his scoring.

Johannisen/Williams - Both really solid, both the kind who keep defenses honest and both not the kind who get absurd numbers at the expense of Daniel, if anything they're the guys who help create the angles for Daniel to work in. Just a nice mix the three.

English - Played mostly forward, looked alright at it. Surprising to me they'd stunt his ruck development given how good he could be but Bevo gonna Bevo.

Jong - Looked fit, played well. Same player he's always been but had a strong wing role. Probably no upside but if he could stay fit he's probably capable of mid 80s.

 

[wogitalia]

Geelong vs Pies

General - Started hot, intensity quickly fell off, Cats fairly strong, Pies fairly strong. 3/4 as usual. Again, didn't notice the man on the mark rule making any real difference.

Cats - Would be happy, first quarter when it was hot they were very well structured on top, when all the steam went out it and they started throwing the magnets around things kind of just fell away. Missing Duncan, Smith and Tuohy who are all deceptively important for other spots.

Stanley - Copped a knock, didn't stand out really. Same player to me.

Parfitt - Solid, basically same role as well, HF with heavy midfield rotations. Mid only kills him off for mine.

Higgins - Solid, HF role it seemed. Played nicely. Should have about the same impact as Ablett last year if he can stay fit.

Cameron - Started well, was pushing up the ground a bit but hard to get much of a read as didn't seem to play too much. What he did was really solid. Think he should push 85+ but not sure he can get to the 95+ range you'd probably be seeking.

Clark - Nice wing role, played well. Hard to really take much from it with Duncan, Smith and Tuohy all impacting that but he looked fit and moved well. Probably better options at his price but if we're forced into that range he could be decent.

Jarvis - Did a few nice things, seemed to be roughly HF as well but could have been wing as most of the work was between the arcs. Would think he gets pushed out by the bigger names but worth watching.

Selwood - Was everywhere, role was solid. Probably not worth the risk but he actually looked fantastic and is bargain priced!

Hawkins - Looked fit, role the same. No idea if he's 85 or 105 this season but he should be in that range somewhere

Menegola/Guthrie - Same roles as last year, both looked good.

Atkins - Playing off HB and actively involved in rebound, probably the 2nd most involved after Stewart (not counting the mids sweeping back). He looked good in the role, probably a bit too expensive to risk but should score decently if he holds the role.

Evans - Because we need more forward rookies... But he looked really solid, basically playing the Atkins role as a pressure forward. Wouldn't want him on field I don't think but did a lot of really nice things and in a strong team he could easily score like Miers did in the same role a couple of years ago. Will be watching closely for his name round 1. Bench option most likely but maybe on-field. Probably goes out for Dahlhaus though.

Miers - Seemed to be higher, was still HF but was certainly up the ground a lot. He actually looked really good and primed for a big year, bit higher role could easily move him towards 90 but it's a big jump he'd need.

Danger - Played only a half but was everywhere and looked fit which is about all he could do. Role was perfect but not sure if that's him only playing half a game and them knowing it or that Cameron makes him surplus to requirements down forward. Either way he looked really solid and if he's playing that role he goes into the potentially underpriced category for mine.

Zuthrie - Playing a pretty pure wing role and really racked up the touches. I have my doubts with Duncan and Smith not there but at 180k as a defender he'd be right in play if that role held up. He genuinely looked good and I've never really rated him. Was just everywhere. Again, don't think the role is there with everyone available and Duncan in doubt for round 1 makes him potential fools gold but he's worth at least watching from here given the back rookies are looking very limited.

Stewart - Looked really good. Started a little slow but got firing and was everywhere, lot of +6s going down. Couldn't tell the preseason was limited if it was.

Blicavs - Mostly in defense, bit of ruck in the 3rd after Stanley was done.

Pies - Not a lot of intensity from them, hard to tell if that's just what they are now, preseason or a bit of both. Played a very mature side and for the amount of potentially relevant rookies they have it's kind of hard to see where the openings actually are.

Quaynor - Solid down back but did nothing to tell me he's going to take the big leap and given the other names down back it seems unlikely. Do rate him as a player.

Grundy - He was probably the best performed of the Pies for mine, especially on an effort level measurement. He looked fit, rucked well and his followup work was very good. Basically looked like Grundy but was neither here nor there, just looked solid and ticked the boxes you'd want. Didn't look to be in the kind of awesome shape set to go to new heights physically or in how he played but saw enough to think he should still be the 120+ version we know and love and a decent pick without making me feel like I need him in the team.

Elliott - Bit of midfield time but not enough to move the needle.

Daicos - More inside role but didn't really do anything with it to convince me it's actually a better role for him for fantasy purposes. He was decent but at his price point and position I'd really like to see him dominate. If he was at 180-210k I'd have really liked his game.

Bianco - Came on in the 3rd and I barely noticed him outside his role actually was decent but I'm not sure how he forces his way into the side with Adams and De Goey to come in to that same basic role.

Noble - Seemed to be on the wing and was bloody everywhere. Would have picked him as the Pies top scorer (maybe Grundy with hitouts) but for the Pies he looked like the guy who had done a full preseason with the league team going down and playing in the 4s with the way he was moving and covering ground compared to the rest of the Pies. I don't think I'd considered him at any point but his name is at least on the board of options now.

Pendles - The motions, going through. Calf rub down in the 3rd but pretty sure it was just a massage rather than an issue.

Cameron - Was alright, I don't get why Buckley wants two rucks given his superstar ruck plays considerably worse and this guy is just nothing special as either a ruck or forward but he definitely seems to be ahead of Cox right now and they seem pretty committed to it.

Ruscoe - He's at a price where if he'd done something special I'd consider him but he did nothing to stand out or draw my attention. Reckon he's holding the spot for De Goey.

Sidebottom - If you could go through the motions more than he did in this game I'd be surprised. If you were looking for a reason to pick him he gave you absolutely nothing. Started HF, drifted through the middle a bit at times but seemed to be on a pretty strict no-contact diet and for a guy whose workrate is normally incredible, was also on a no sweat plan. It's actually weird to watch him give no effort given how he normally plays. I'm not really concerned and he's still in the mix but I was kind of hoping he'd give me a reason to pick him!

Crisp - Seemed to be mostly off half back to me but like most of the senior guys he didn't stand out to me and it was hard to really place where he was playing.

Moore - Still down back, no change here.

Hoskin-Elliott - Playing as a de-facto full forward, rarely saw him outside the F50.

Henry - Was really solid, nice leading patterns, nice work-rate, nice hands. Tough role for such a young guy to score well in. Bit of Adelaide Tom Lynch in him for mine in the way he presents high up onto the wing. Tough role and a slight premium on his price would say to me he's probably one of the weaker choices of what is appearing to be a very loaded rookie crop up forward but I think he put his hand up for round 1 and that's always step 1 for rookies!

Sier - Great role, was alright but did nothing to wow me and knowing Adams role is exactly what he did and De Goey is wanted in the same area I just don't see how he holds a spot. Strikes as a very pure inside midfielder and nothing he's done indicates to me he really has any other position he's AFL level at. He's the kind of guy a team needed his type should pick up for a bargain. In many ways he reminds me of Josh Kennedy when he was stuck at Hawthorn, not beating Hodge, Mitchell, Burgoyne et al for the midfield role and just not good enough in other roles so ends up dominating VFL. Needs to play a lot better, imo, if he's going to change the equation. I really like him as a player too.

Maynard - Same role as last year, took a few kick-ins but a bit of committee going on there.

Howe - Scott Selwood (coaches at Pies) said he's definitely underdone and not as fit as they want him and that he had a few hiccups in the recovery process(explains not playing last year) but despite that he looked alright. Again, like most of the senior Pies I'm not sure he really got out of 1st gear but he still moves well and the rest goes with that. Given his recent durability record and that he's priced at his career best scoring rate, I don't have a lot of interest this year.

I realise I probably sound a bit down on the Pies but they really weren't there when the game was hot in the 1st quarter and and it was really hard to judge them once all sting had gone out of it, they did close the scoring gap and actually almost won it but I just wasn't impressed by the intensity from that point by either team and the Cats did take off most of their senior guys at half time. I rate the Pies and think they should be fine but I'm certainly hoping they come out with a lot more intensity to the next game so I can get more of a feel.

 

[wogitalia]

Sydney vs GWS

General - Watched all 4 quarters, for obvious reasons but also because this game has so many fantasy relevant names. The wet conditions do not help at all, structures fall apart, it gets scrappy, KP guys go out the window and you get more contests which tend to make the more physical guys stand out. On a positive both sides were strong and you also get to see those players with the extra class that stand up in the west.

Sydney - Missing Rampe and Buddy that are clear best 22, Rampe far more important structurally as far as reading positions and the like. Several guys that are likely best 22 also missing but I personally would say all of them are guys who should have to earn and hold their spots. I thought Sydney were the better team but for goal kicking but the draw not an unfair result.

Warner - Came on late in the 2nd, not a great sign, but played very well. Role was certainly better than he'd get in the real stuff with a genuine midfield role but he acquitted himself nicely. Reckon he's outside the 22 though given a couple of names to come back in.

Heeney - Had his minutes managed per commentary and is still on a restricted program but has played the last couple of hitouts and this game. He looked phenomenal though. Not the role I want for him but was a medium HF and the standout forward target in this side for the slightly over half that he played. I still struggle to pick him in that role in a team that's probably not that strong given his durability issues but for a guy with a limited preseason he looks as fit as anyone.

McDonald - Conditions horrific for him, did a few nice things, moves so well and a good size to him. Hopefully can see him in the dry but I think with how many FWD rookies are available, the price premium and as a young KPF he's a pretty easy pass even if picked round 1. Especially with Buddy, maybe, on the horizon.

Rowbottom - Didn't seem to have made any real progress in a year he really needs to. He's a solid 15-22 on a list type but would have liked to see him show something as a forward given he's not a guy and never looks like being a guy you'd want in your main midfield rotation of a good side. I like him if he can start to work off HF but he's kind of just holding back guys with real talent right now with his midfield minutes.

Hayward - I call him "Mr Almost". He's almost a good player, he almost marks a lot of things, he almost swoops on a lot of chances, he just almost does a lot of things but everybody knows almost isn't good enough. I was so excited for him when he first came on the scene, dynamic with genuine speed but he seems to have lost a step and I'd argue he's not as good as he was as a rookie at this point. Another I would hope gets pushed out of the 22 if he doesn't improve greatly. As a scrappy almost player he needs to actually do things in the wet, not get worse.

Papley - Deep forward, played great, couple of stints higher up but mostly a forward target. Kicking at goal left more than a little to be desired, believe he had 2.4 and I'd have hoped to be at least 5.1 from his chances. Also has certainly not looked to dial down his attempts to milk free kicks over the o***eason, I imagine opposition fans are going to continue to hate him

Kennedy - He looked in ripping shape. Never write off a champion but I think his days as a premium are probably done but he looks fit enough to do it again.

Florent - I've been harsh on him in the past but he was a lot better this game. He's sort of our Taranto in that his ball use leaves quite a bit to be desired and yet he's not really a contested player. Don't think he's fantasy relevant but it was good to see him at least playing well after last year's step backwards. He's another who is just a bit positionless, I think I'd rather him on HF (especially if it's Heeney in the middle...) than burning midfield minutes, would rather see what the likes of Warner (a lot harder) or Stephens (a lot silkier) getting those minutes and Florent go back to HF where he actually looked good as a kid. Still, good to see progress.

Mills - Honestly was hoping for a bit more after seeing the write-ups but his role was as pure as it could be and he did some really nice things. He was our best midfielder by a fair way though and both Harley and Rampe mentioned while in the commentary box that he's a midfielder and that's where they expect to see him this year. Honestly, he was great but was hoping it would be all world based on some of the hyperbole floating around. Still, he firmed in my side and would take something of note in the next game for that to change, and the FFC boys can attest that I hate to pick Swans players for fear of bias so if I'm saying it I definitely feel confident in him!

Campbell - Do we have a fap smiley? Dat left foot of his is sexual. Seriously though, role as advertised and he already looked more composed than everyone else down back and able to make kicks that only Mills would even dream of over the last few years. He had a couple of quiet patches and I don't think he played the whole game as was looking for him actively but in that role, with that skillset he's worth the premium for mine. I don't throw this around lightly but he's got a Luke Hodge level left foot on him. He's more solid than I thought as well physically and stuck a couple of nice tackles which is obviously the area that is the concern for such a young player. Be surprised if he can't average 75+ for enough time to make his cash.

Gould - Came on in the 2nd for a couple of minutes but only seemed to really be playing in the 2nd half. He did nothing wrong but for a fringe guy fighting for a spot he really did nothing right either. Honestly I'd be genuinely surprised if he played round 1.

Sinclair - Clear 2nd ruck but think he is clearly in the side.

Ling - I was really impressed by him. Played all 4 quarters, clear role and was excellent defensively (the main requirement) but also really good with the ball. More than a little bit of Malceski about him but a bit more toe and a lot more defense. Looks to have a really nice left leg. If he can take the spot Cunningham has been sitting on that would be a great result and I think he can squeeze in there. Opposite of Gould, he did everything he could for mine to push a round 1 spot. 160k defender that is arguably startable in the role has to be watched closely next week. Harley was incredibly high on him with his praise.

Blakey - I was hoping he'd struggle and I could just stop thinking about starting him but he really went the other way, especially while the game was dryish. On the wing as advertised, was the clear leading target for the defenders on so many plays, his linkup work was exceptional and I just love that he takes on kicks other players can't even see or think about going inside 50, sometimes they don't work but they worked far more often than not (Reid and Hayward's hands on the end of them on the other hand...). Honestly I liked Caldwell's role/game a bit more than Blakey's but he kept his name firmly on the list of those 300k forwards that I'm looking at closely next week. Drifted forward later in the game as a few of the other guys got time on the wing, not sure if that's a concern or nothing, it felt like nothing if that makes sense but he's clearly not a fantasy option as a forward so worth watching for next week.

Parker - Looked like Parker. Was solid and got out unscathed as far as I can tell. Didn't notice him as much later in the game but I can't say I was looking for him at all. He is what he is, if he's fit all year and things go well he can push 110+ but most likely he'll end up in the 100-110 range.

McCartin - Was really solid down back. Not relevant himself but that's bad for Gould as Rampe would play 3rd tall if McCartin and Melican do their jobs.

Hickey - Was solid but showed nothing to indicate he's anything more than that. I thought Flynn was the better tap ruckman in the game, he definitely had the clear standout HOtAs to me but Hickey was solid around the ground and gave a contest. It's shame that neither he nor Flynn gets to face someone else next week as it's kind of tough to gauge where either is at without some competitive comparison.

Bell - Played solid as well, he's another almost talent, great speed, sometimes kicks well but a bit fumbly as a player and just missing something. He looks like he should be better and have more impact. Played a HF type of role, did kick a couple I believe. Saw nothing to suggest he needs any fantasy consideration.

Dawson - Played in defense, which is a big tick for him as a starting pick and a big negative for Gould. Took several kick-ins and Rampe talked about how they love his kick-ins because with the new rule they can be in their attacking half in seconds, something Lloyd obviously doesn't offer and a real concern for him from a fantasy perspective. In the wet with a lack of structure it's hard to define his role but given he was clearly in defense and Mills was clearly in midfield, it's a pretty logical swap. He's absolutely fantasy relevant in that role and with kick-ins could be a massive factor.

Fox - This guy is the real thorn in the side for all of Campbell, Gould and Ling. He did absolutely nothing wrong and I genuinely hope he's just holding the fort for Rampe but he's played 25 games the past couple of years and he's a good solid player. He just hasn't got near the potential of Campbell or Ling as an attacking player but he's a real coaches pet type, just does the job. Assuming we play Cunningham elsewhere there are probably two spots for Campbell, Gould, Fox and Ling in the team if we play the 2 talls and Rampe and I'd say Fox is the guy with the runs on the board and the trust. Personally I want to see Campbell and Ling because they can both really kick it but Horse is pretty conservative (understatement).

 

[wogitalia]

Not only got 10,000 worded, got 10,000 worded on the Swans alone

Melican - Really solid. As with McCartin that's a negative for SC purposes.

Lloyd - Preseason game. Biggest concern was absolutely the Dawson kick-ins, at Lloyd's price a 5% or 10% change is enormous and that factor is legit, Dawson is a much bigger and better kick and if he's there full time it's certainly going to present a challenge to Horse of whether he lets Lloyd keep racking it up at the cost of the team or lets Dawson do his thing and risk being attacking, I can just see him struggling with which one of those bad coaching choices he likes more... Otherwise he looked fine, didn't look any worse for wear for whatever the reason he missed the intra-club game.

Gulden - I wanted to save the best for last because, again, do we have a fap smiley! The comparison I hate more than any is the Cyril comparison for any small forward but... yeah I'm going there on this one. In the wet he looked like the only guy playing with a dry ball, he had multiple triple and quadruple tackle attempt/pressure plays, his decision making is absurd for a kid playing his first practice game at AFL level and he's got the pretty left foot as well. I'm not expecting Cyril numbers who was playing in a flag winning side compared to what is still probably a bottom 4 group with a coach who doesn't like scoring but he played a HF role, pushed through the middle of the ground and pretty much everything he did was good in this game. The only forwards who were on his level for us were Heeney and Papley, two AA level players, and, honestly, I thought he was better than either in this one, don't quote me on it but I think he set up all but one of our scoring shots in the 3rd, most with genuine class. Role says he's not an on-field rookie but I'm not sold on that at all based on this game. Very excited to see him in the next hitout to see what he can do but I might kill Horse myself if he's not in the team round 1. Just lock him in. If it sounds over the top, just consider that what I'm saying isn't even close to as gushing as Rampe was about him for the entire 3rd quarter in the commentary box, like he basically didn't talk about anything but how good Gulden is.


GWS - Their team seemed really young and like I'd have a disclaimer but when I go through the list the only guys missing were Davis, Whitfield, Preuss and Hogan, of whom two are KP players with no structural impact, one is the ruck and out long term and the other is genuinely important. Still probably a very good indicator of where the best 22 lies and that some of the names are relevant.

Hopper - Really solid. He's got noticeably more time in the contest than Coniglio and Taranto seem to. Just doesn't feel rushed. Still doesn't appear to be able to kick it consistently though. Isolated I'd like him as a pick to perhaps push to mid 100s but don't think he does this year because, we'll get to the reason...

Coniglio - Good role, played alright, looked fit. Definitely can score premium numbers and given I don't think anyone has basically thought about him compared to everyone else in their midfield, watch him be the answer to the GWS question but happy to miss him.

Greene - Deep forward, same as Heeney basically. If I felt a bit better about GWS I'd like him but too many durability/discipline concerns for not enough upside as a forward. Kind of guy who even if he averages 95 will probably cost the same or less than he does now. No midfield time indicators to me.

Bruhn - 158k mid probably puts him out of play but he did some really nice things. Phil Davis said that he's a strong game next week from a round 1 birth but it's hard to squeeze him in and I didn't see enough scoring potential in a lesser role to justify that premium in a good rookie group. Basically the guys with the premium are better and so are the cheaper guys mostly it seems. Worth watching and could be a solid downgrade option if he isn't there early.

Ash - Really solid but not spectacular. No kick-ins from what I saw, had a few periods where he waxed but reckon he probably had about 70 DT/SC and it felt like a decent game. Need to see a fair bit more next game.

Ward - Looks a lot fitter, actually rucked for a 10m period in the 4th quarter and was solid and Davis did talk of it being a genuine option in the real stuff. Seemed to be more of a wing role for him though, so not impacting some of the other names. I still think he's a chance to float across half back this year.

Green - My god he's good. He's like a mutant combination of Josh Kennedy and Clayton Oliver. He's the reason I couldn't pick Hopper, he's just a genuine class above their other guys in the clearances already, I have no idea how good his tank is but he looks noticeably fitter/better shaped this season. He went head to head with Kennedy/Parker/Mills and managed to beat them far more often than a 2nd year kid should and those 3 are contested bulls so it's saying something, there's only a handful of midfielders in the league of their size and strength in the clearance and he more than matched them. I don't know if he does enough cheap stuff to go premium this year, that's the knock, he'd be going down the pure contested animal path and that generally falls a bit short but he's a special player, definitely got Brownlow potential if he continues to develop.

Cumming - He took almost every kick-in, a couple where other players gave it to him instead of just going themselves. He was actually good in general. Such an awkward price but he looked to be the main rebounder for the Giants. No Whitfield the big spanner in the works obviously but he was the pick of them. Interestingly Davis mentioned that Buntine, Cumming and Idun are battling for 2 spots and the way he spoke on Buntine it definitely felt like he was in the lead. Cumming was considerably better than either on attacking contributions. I have no idea if that implies Ash is ahead or behind them, fwiw. I saw enough that in a no rookie situation he's at least in play.

Taranto - He looked like 2019 Taranto. Midfield and resting forward, he was prolific, at a guess he would have been about 110 DT and probably about 95SC, honestly think he had two sideways backwards kicks and a soccer as his only kicks that went to teammates, really hard to judge in the wet but saw nothing to suggest the kicking has improved and yet I come away from the game with a big tick for anyone considering him. He looked really fit and he did exactly what you'd want outside his kicking which you already know about. Lot to like about his game though and I think anyone who was already liking him would have come away more certain about their choice. His role was good and unimpacted by Green, if anything it was Kelly who was pushed outside more often, of course that could also be preseason and change in the real stuff.

Haynes - If you were looking for something from him it could only be "don't pick me". Was watching as he's a guy who has a lot of value potential if he's the intercept and rebound guy, structurally there really wasn't any intercept so very hard to judge that but he clearly wasn't the rebound guy, he's one of the guys who gave up multiple kick-ins to Cummings for example.

Buntine - As mentioned above, sounds like he's leading the race over two fantasy relevant players though it's hard to see why from the game. He's pretty much their version of what Fox is for Sydney, as a fan you'd rather the kids who have potential over the boring team man but coaches tend to love those guys.

Kelly - As mentioned, he seemed to be very outside, mostly wing. He did some really nice things, was noticeably cleaner than most and was basically Kelly as you'd expect. Probably the most important thing in the game came from the commentary where it was highlighted a couple of times that he's had the best preseason of his career and it has been flawless which given his only real issue is durability and the strong relationship between the two is a very strong sign.

De Boer - Played almost entirely forward from what I could see and they did talk about him in that role and how he was decent in it at Freo. Pretty uncommon for there to be a tag in preseason so hard to read much out of it but if he is playing that role it could be another negative for Lloyd as Sydney face GWS in round 5 so if he did tag him that could be perfect timing. Impossible to plan for that though. Also means he obviously didn't impact that fragile midfield balance in this game.

Flynn - Was excellent, couple of beautiful hitouts and very good followup work. He showed nothing to me to suggest they should be playing Mumford for anything but injury. Perhaps even more reassuring was that Davis mentioned that they'd probably bring in Briggs to help out as a genuine 2nd ruck if they did need to do anything. He was rock solid and to me looks a very strong on-field rookie option that will, admittedly, need a solid exit plan for Preuss' return if we get an accurate window on that.

Buckley - Shame about his price, he looked really solid and gave a good contest but at 225k he offers nothing for SC, imo as can't see the job security or scoring potential to justify that premium, quite possibly would make no cash. Probably also goes out for Whitfield.

 

[McLovin]

I sorta watched the first 3 quarters of the Brisbane-GC game. The camera angle wasn't great and I couldn't pick some players out. Shoutout to the absolute plonker Suns staff or family member who spent the entire first half screaming at the umps and calling for 50s despite GC getting a free every couple of minutes. I didn't know it was possible to be so invested in a practice game.

The Suns got absolutely smashed in the first quarter and their midfield was a complete non factor, the Lions mids bullied them. It's hard to read too much into Lions midfield performances because they rotated so much. Neale, Bailey, Rayner, McCluggage, Berry, Lyons, McCarthy and Mathieson all lined up at centre bounces. Neale aside, it's very hard to pick which Lions mid is most likely to take the next step scoring wise. Berry, Rayner and Bailey are all potentially too versatile for their own good SC wise, while McCluggage is at least settled as the 'inside' winger and would only need some guaranteed mid time to turn him into an attractive option.

Once again I didn't notice the stand rule having a huge impact on ball movement. The thing that did stand out was umpires not calling play on as soon as the player in possession moves off the line. I can't see how the change can work if that doesn't happen. At one point Daniher was able to mark outside 50, wheel around and kick a goal unopposed because the GC player on the mark couldn't move.

My takes on a few players:

Brisbane
Ely Smith- lined up on the outside wing mostly. Fairly quiet but looked solid when he was involved. If he repeats that performance it could be enough to earn him the first crack at Mitch Robinson's spot in the wing rotations.
Rayner- started at his fair share of centre bounces, wasn't quite as impressive as I'd expected based on reports. Seemed to disappear out of the game when not in the midfield and wasn't always clean. I liked Bailey's game better.
McCluggage- if he maintains the more even split between wing and midfield time he had in this game I'll be very tempted to pick him.
Berry- played a somewhat peripheral half forward/wing/3rd string midfield role, probably because he had a shoulder scare a while ago and missed a few weeks of contact training. I'm not picking him as a big improver in SC this season, he goes through too many periods when he's playing sore and his numbers suffer.
Bailey- I saw him listed at 7 CBAs, I could've sworn it was more than that. Even though his kicks didn't always hit the target, he used his pace around the contest really well and seemed to get plenty of the ball.
Rich- there's a small chance he could have a big year SC wise, most likely to end up slightly under what a long list of other premium defenders are capable of. At this point in his career he's a better player than almost all of them, it just won't always translate to SC.
Madden- I only noticed him with the ball about once, I'll blame the camera for that. We'll have to see if he plays again next week.
Daniher- could've easily kicked 10, didn't take many ruck contests as Fullarton mostly rotated off the bench as the 2nd ruck.
Neale- showed no signs of an interrupted pre-season
Zorko- mostly forward, better to watch as a potential upgrade target
Lyons- mostly very quiet, some wing and midfield time. I'd be very surprised if he's not back in his usual role come round 1.

GC
Rowell- a bit rusty and got manhandled by a couple of Lions mids. You'd want a more convincing showing next week to start him.
Lukosius- the role uncertainty is back. Spent a lot of time on the wing in the first quarter and a bit, was ok but relied heavily on frees to get a touch. Disappeared for a while (might've been forward) and then reappeared in the back half. More questions than answers out of that game.
Bowes- I like his role, especially if Lukosius won't always be in the back half. Even then though he'll need a lot of touches to overcome his tendency to be a bit dinky, he won't get huge points from most of his kicks or kick ins and his ceiling to date has been very low.
Brodie- kicked a couple of opportunistic goals, not sure where he sits in their midfield mix if he can convince Dew to pick him. His midfield time might've been inflated by Rowell and Swallow (I think) not playing in the 2nd half. His price is intriguing, as is some of his scoring history from 2019. Probably too many question marks over his role, his place in the side and his inexperience (he's still only played 20 games!).

I've probably missed a couple of Suns players of note, they're just so hard to be interested in as a side The McKenna era might've been a trainwreck, but at least they played some exciting footy at times when Bennell and co were firing.

 

[wogitalia]

Suns vs Lions

General - Watched 3/4. There was no commentary but there were certainly some "special" comments by a particularly articulate and well educated Suns fan who would make most bogans blush. To his credit, the man showed more passion in a practice game than I would outside a final . Game was solid, not fierce but not soft, both teams relatively strong, weather and conditions good.

Suns - They got smashed although I think they clawed it back a bit in the 3rd to make things a bit respectable, all sting out of it by then. From what I could work out they were basically at full strength but I barely noticed Greenwood or Swallow around the ball so my gut feeling is they didn't play a lot or midfield when they did. I don't think Sam Collins was playing either, really hard to tell when it's basically a fixed camera.

Greenwood - As mentioned, he was mostly forward when I saw him and not very involved. Not sure he's relevant this year but he's actually close to midfield premium so maybe?

Bowes - Seemed to take almost every kick-in, Markov may have nabbed a couple, they're very hard to tell apart from a distance with no numbers. He looked good and I think he's worth watching very closely next game. 450k but has a prime role and was a stud as a junior.

Ellis - Out on his wing.

Harbrow - Still floating around down back.

Sexton - Still deep forward.

Brodie - Started in the guts for first bounce, had a huge 3rd quarter but I rarely noticed him prior to that. As a midpriced forward I was watching for him and he was another super highly rated junior. Probably hurts his fantasy case by kicking the couple of goals I think he kicked but worth watching next week.

Ainsworth - Was really solid, involved in a lot of their scoring chains. If he was at just about any other club I'd have a lot of interest in him, clearly a talent, but just hard to see enough ball to push towards 100.

Miller - Prime midfield role. Could make a case he can hit 110, I'm not going to though.

Lukosius - Played a pure wing role for the first half, I couldn't spot him in the 3rd quarter so assume he only played a half. Was prolific and is such an exquisite kick of the ball. I'll be honest that it wasn't the role I wanted for him (intercept defender) but it could work. Concern was that he wasn't really drifting into the contest, actually very disciplined holding his shape on the wing but means he's a bit reliant on others for the ball. Prefer a wing more like how Clug plays it as almost an extra midfielder. Still will watch next week, always hard to judge what his SC will be.

Weller - Not a heavy midfield role, similar to last year, HF/Wing with some inside minutes. Not relevant as a mid this year.

Anderson - More inside mid minutes but didn't do a lot with them, couple of nice plays but mostly not involved in the game. Didn't see anything to raise him above the "would take something special" category to make my team.

Markov - Did some really nice things, not enough of them but there will be plenty of supply for the Suns defenders. Definitely looks best 22 and will watch next week but comfortably more of a no than a yes right now.

Rowell - I was impressed, only played a half but went at 100mph, had a good half dozen tests of his shoulder and the way he plays it sure is going to be a heart in mouth thing for anyone picking him. Had one absolute howler of a kick where he hit Daniher on a lead with a 45 degree shank off the outside of his foot and another where he got caught playing at scratch match speed and was the easiest holding the ball call you'll get but otherwise moved fantastically, showed good intensity and hunted the ball. A tick for anyone considering him.

Rankine - Deep forward, can't see him being relevant in that role at the Suns.

Swallow - As mentioned he wasn't very actively involved in this one, not sure if that's because he was forward and has been pushed out of the midfield or because he's a senior player and they wanted to give kids a go, obviously the latter is bad for reading anything and the first is good for it.

Flanders - Didn't notice him in the first half, doesn't mean he wasn't out there as a forward but I think he came on at HT. Did a couple of decent things but that's all. Doubt he'd be worth the 190k price tag, again as a Suns forward.

Witts - Was solid and had his way with the Lions rucks for the most part. Nothing seems to have changed re: his lack of work around the ground capping him for fantasy purposes.

Burgess - Seemed to be playing forward and 2nd ruck, 210k defender makes that at least interesting. Broken record but forward for Suns I think is basically a dead position.

King - Couple of nice things, hard to tell how much he was playing, didn't notice him at all Q1 but the ball was at the other end of the ground.

Budarick - Still seemed very defensive.

 

[wogitalia]

And yet again, the word limit got me, thought I was a chance here!

Lions - Would be pretty happy I think, got through and got some run in, experimented a bit. Very strong side for them, by my workings Gardiner was the only best 22 guy not playing with Robinson probably on the fringe of the 22 the next best missing. First quarter was absolutely dominant. Eased off a lot at HT. Lions had some super rare rotations going on, will try and mention them where I noticed.

Daniher - Just look away now Bombers' fans. He looked incredible, even slotted most of his shots at goal including a couple from inside 25m! Was not the backup ruck in this game, so be interesting to see how that works but he just looked super fit, plucking everything and seemed to actually be enjoying his football again. Looked like the guy who almost got me to pick him priced at 85 as a potential keeper! Wouldn't be at all surprised if he pushes 85+. You remember just how good he was when you see that.

Ah Chee - Prolific in Q1 off half back and then a lot quieter from there. He looked really decent though. Don't think he's the fantasy relevant one though.

McCluggage - He was probably the most "preseason mode" of the Lions to me. Wing/Centre role that you want, played nicely and did some nice things but definitely was holding back a bit. As someone who wants to speculate on him I wanted to see a bit more "I'm out to destroy this season" mentality from him but will keep watching.

Berry - Mostly wing with some inside mid but he was really just following the ball on the wing anyway so may as well have been on ball. Him and Clug basically rotating.

Smith - The holding winger, he was on the other wing pretty much all game and much more disciplined in holding shape. He did a few nice things but I'd certainly have liked a more authoritative game from him to demand a spot. Still a good sign but I'd be surprised if that's good enough to hold it over the mongrel and leadership that Robinson offers doing the same role.

Neale - Played all 3 quarters that I watched, had read he only played a half. He looked fit. He also looked like a Brownlow medalist playing in a meaningless scratch match. Lots of nice things, shook off a bit of uncharacteristic rust but looked better for it. Best sign for me was he was still working and building in the 3rd quarter, most of the other games that's when people start blowing up and he looked fine.

Rich - Big Q1, I didn't see him until the last couple of minutes of Q2, genuinely don't think he was out there as I was watching for him, back for a bit of Q3 and then gone again. He looked really good in his limited minutes and I think he's the most underrated defender for SC purposes right now. Reckon he's set for a big year with the new kick-in rule really suiting him as well as the man on the mark rule, I actually think as a guy a little bit slower but with an insane leg he'll have more angles to hit dynamic kicks.

McCarthy - Had a few on ball bursts but otherwise same old role.

Birchall - Solid on half back, not much else to say.

Zorko - Pure high HF role for him, didn't notice any pure midfield work but he was pushing all the way to the defensive 50 arc and working into space. Another who seemed to spend a large amount of time off the field. He looked good but I'm not sure I want to start him in that role.

Rayner - Another with weird rotations. Pure midfield in Q1 and looked great. Seemed to be pure forward in Q2 and kind of went missing like past seasons, seemed a bit more balanced in Q3 but low TOG. He certainly looks fitter and was making a lot more repeat efforts than normal as well as follow up work. End of the day though I saw nothing that makes me want to pick him outside the first quarter role.

Lyons - Bit all over the shop, wing early, inside mid later. Another preseason vibe here and I reckon his TOG was probably fairly low. Otherwise not much to note, we know what he is.

Fullarton - Played as a pure 2nd ruck, as far as I could tell neither he or Oscar spent a single minute in any position but bench and ruck. He moves really nicely for his size, honestly mixed him up with Berry a couple of times which is a big compliment given his size. He looks a good one but probably only plays if OMc is injured based on them not using him forward, can't see them having him as a pure ruck substitute.

Cameron - Same old with a preseason intensity to it.

Hipwood - Really loving the 2nd KPF role with Daniher there. Looked really good and was taking full advantage of it. He's certainly good enough to keep defenders honest and not allow them to gang up on Daniher, something he's never had before.

Andrews - Rock solid, same old for mine, reckon he'll be in the 80-95 range again.

Bailey - The big takeaway for mine. From all the games I've seen he's a mile clear of anyone else in that 400-470k range for forwards, had a pure midfield role and was absolutely everywhere in it. Mostly centre, splashes of wing time and as I said, everywhere. Tackling everything, at every contest, he'd get a handball in a back pocket and then somehow also seem to be receiving the next kick. I'd had him on my radar but right now he's absolutely the guy I'd pick in that price range if I was really looking in it (so far I'm not). Great combination of excellent role but genuinely looking better for it.

Mathieson - Seemed to be the midfielder that was on for the Lions when you were trying to find Lyons, Berry and Clug but couldn't find a couple of them. He actually played well but it felt like he was the guy getting minutes because it was preseason, like he does every preseason.

Starcevich - I think he was out there in Q1, didn't notice him after that, maybe mixed him up with someone else.

Payne - Was rock solid down back.

Madden - I probably should have known from the name but the first time I noticed him all I could think "that guys definitely Irish". At this point I just assume Ireland is cloning guys to play AFL, they all look the same, they all run the same, they all kick the same. He's got serious toe from what I could tell, a limited idea of how to get cheap touches and some decent tackling. I only noticed him in the 3rd, so another I assume didn't play the 1st half but I wasn't looking for him and the ball wasn't exactly in his area so he may well have played more. He looked good but hard to find the spot in the team for him.

OMc - Soundly beaten by Witts at hitouts/clearances, didn't do much around the ground. I saw nothing to say he presents any real value or chance of getting further than no man's land this year. Still a good solid player but need more at his price/position.

 

[THCLT]

@wogitalia efforts & insights on the pre-season matches are too valuable to be lost in the main thread so I've given him his own center stage.

Keep up the fantastic work mate, it is truly the stuff of legends.

 

[Pieman17]

Legend !!

 

[Dimmawit]

Bravo

 

[SuchIsLife]

This is better than all Heraldsun articles combined, thank you!

 

[Lost In The Sky]

Fantastic effort @wogitalia !!

Appreciate the time commitment as well, must have taken hours.

 

[Courtesans]

Wow!