Discussion 2022 AFL: Practice Matches & AAMI Community Series Discussion
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To anyone else that wants to be in an official SCS League, we have now opened SCS07.
You can find the code in the allocation thread.
IF YOU ARE ALREADY IN A SCS LEAGUE, PLEASE DO NOT JOIN THIS LEAGUE. GIVE OTHERS A CHANCE!!!
@Mr_Arrogance
@Beijing_Sting
@whiteTiga2k
@corkah87
@malbi
@benderiffic
@Crocodiles
@Krak
@Leftyitisstill
@bluesbrothers
@ChrisCross
@MRYP
@Seymour Skinner
@Baglimit
@NT.Thunder
@tso
@OnTopBar
@WindyHillWizard
@Wheedus
@Lenny5
@Dazza
@RedSyrah
@American Doggie
@The Night Manager
@Disposable heroes
@ScottishBomber
@randomcliche
@McLovin
@BomberSam
To anyone else that wants to be in an official SCS League, we have now opened SCS07.
You can find the code in the allocation thread.
IF YOU ARE ALREADY IN A SCS LEAGUE, PLEASE DO NOT JOIN THIS LEAGUE. GIVE OTHERS A CHANCE!!!
I have Holmes in a keeper format having drafted him at the beginning of last year and have zero regrets thus far. The one thing however I would keep in mind is while he may be a M/F for now I do tend to think his time in the midfield will increase quite a bit over the next two years and eventually he will become a Mid only.
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@Shannon, @GrainFedBeef and @Lost In The Sky - always appreciate your insights! As ya'll suggested Strnadica & co in!
https://www.afl.com.au/news/716642/injury-hit-eagles-sign-three-new-ssp-rookies-ahead-of-r1
https://www.afl.com.au/news/716642/injury-hit-eagles-sign-three-new-ssp-rookies-ahead-of-r1
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AFL news 2022: AFL Teams, Round 1 Team Tips, predicted squads, line-ups, injuries, ins and outs, changes, debuts, SuperCoach (foxsports.com.au)
Ben Cotton with staff writers from Fox Sports
March 9th, 2022 3:54 pm
Several clubs are set to unearth debutants as a new wave of players will be unleashed.
Plus the Blues get a massive boost at either end of the ground.
AFL ROUND 1 (All times AEST)
MELBOURNE v WESTERN BULLDOGS
Wednesday March 16, 7:10pm at the MCG
Demons’ AAMI Community Series team
B: J.Bowey 17 J.Lever 8 J.Smith 44
HB: J.Harmes 4 A.Tomlinson 20 J.Hunt 29
C: A.Brayshaw 10 J.Viney 7 E.Langdon 15
HF: S.Weideman 26 T.McDonald 25 T.Sparrow 32
F: B.Fritsch 31 B.Brown 50 A.Neal-Bullen 30
FOLL: M.Gawn C 11 C.Petracca 5 C.Oliver 13
I/C: L.Jackson 6 C.Spargo 9 T.Bedford 12 J.Jordon 23 O.Baker 33 K.Pickett 36 K.Chandler 37 D.Turner 42
Team Tips: The reigning premiers’ best 22 is probably the most settled of any side in the competition, with very few spots up for grabs, if that. Adam Tomlinson is back in the fold after missing last year’s flag triumph. From last year’s premiership side, Jayden Hunt takes the spot of Trent Rivers, who’s still recovering from a knee injury and racing the clock to be fit for Round 1, should he miss. Harrison Petty missed Thursday’s AAMI Community Series clash against Carlton with a sore calf, but he’ll likely not walk straight back into the best 22, now competing with Tomlinson for the same spot. Christian Salem, Steven May and Michael Hibberd also missed the Blues’ clash but are expected to be available for the season opener.
Bulldogs’ AAMI Community Series team
B: B.Dale 31 J.Schache 13 C.Daniel 35
HB: B.Williams 34 A.Keath 42 R.Smith 37
C: M.Hannan 29 M.Bontempelli 4 E.Richards 20
HF: C.Weightman 19 A.Naughton 33 J.Macrae 11
F: J.Johannisen 39 S.Martin 8 L.Vandermeer 23
FOLL: T.English 44 J.Dunkley 5 A.Treloar 1
I/C: B.Smith 6 Z.Cordy 12 H.Crozier 9 L.Hunter 7 A.Jones 32 R.McComb 27 T.Duryea 15 C.Raak 40
Team Tips:Tom Liberatore is set to slot straight back into the engine room and give the Bulldogs more grunt in the contest, with Ed Richards and Laitham Vandermeer seemingly most at risk of coming out of the side. Alex Keath suffered a shin knock in Thursday’s practice match against Brisbane and was pulled from the game for the second half, but gets plenty of time to recover for Round 1 provided it’s nothing serious, while Adam Treloar (shoulder)and Aaron Naughton (hip)were went for scans after the practice match. Despite Josh Bruce’s absence with an ACL injury, Luke Beveridge still didn’t go with Jammara Ugle-Hagan against the Lions and will likely make him earn his stripes in the VFL to start the season. Recruit Tim O’Brien, who was shaping as the likely replacement for the retired Easton Wood, also missed the practice match with a hamstring issue and is unlikely to be available to face the Demons. The Bulldogs were otherwise basically at full strength, although you can never put it past Luke Beveridge swinging a few unpredictable moves.
CARLTON v RICHMOND
Thursday March 17, 7:25pm at the MCG
Blues’ AAMI Community Series team
B: Le.Young 33 O.McDonald 39 Z.Williams 6
HB: N.Newman 24 M.McGovern 11, A.Saad 42
C: W.Setterfield 43 P.Cripps 9 L.O’Brien 4
HF: M.Owies 44 J.Silvagni 1 Z.Fisher 25
F: C.Durdin 19 H.McKay 10 T.De Koning 12
FOLL: M.Pittonet 27 G.Hewett 29 A.Cerra 5
I/C: J.Boyd 37 M.Kennedy 7 E.Curnow 5 J.Martin 21 T.Williamson 31 L.Parks 26 M.Cottrell 46 L.Plowman 20
EMG: L.Fogarty 8, J.Newnes 32 P.Dow 2 A.Mirkov 45
Team Tips: The Blues are set to welcome back Charlie Curnow and Jacob Weitering, who were both rested for last Thursday’s AAMI Community Series clash against Melbourne, to give Michael Voss’ side a massive boost at either end of the ground. The key position pair could replace Oscar McDonald and potentially Tom De Koning or Marc Pittonet. Sam Docherty has put himself right in the frame for an inspirational return to the senior side after racking up 38 disposals in a VFL practice match against the Casey Demons, with Jordan Boyd the one who could make way for the ex-skipper. CoreyDurdin impressed with two goals in the first half before leaving the field with a calf injury, but Voss said post-match it was nothing to worry about.Sam Walsh is making a shock bid for an early return for a syndesmosis injury suffered a month ago. Originally expected to miss 8-10 weeks, the superstar midfielder is “chomping at the bit for Round 1” according to captain Patrick Cripps, though Round 2 or 3 looks more likely.
Tigers’ AAMI Community Series team
B: D.Grimes 2 R.Tarrant 6 J.Gibcus 28
HB: J.Short 15 N.Broad 35 D.Rioli 17
C: J.Ross 5 T.Cotchin 9 K.McIntosh 33
HF: S.Bolton 29 L.Baker 7 S.Edwards 10
F: N.Balta 21 T.Lynch 19 J.Riewoldt 8
FOLL: T.Nankervis 25 D.Prestia 3 D.Martin 4
I/C: H.Ralphsmith 45 I.Soldo 20 J.Aarts 16 J.Castagna 11 B.Nyuon 47 T.Brown 30 W.Martyn 36 M.Rioli 49
EMG: B.Miller 46 S.Ryan 32 M.Pickett 50 M.Parker 37
Team Tips: The Tigers named a strong side for their final practice match ahead of Round 1, but were without injured trio Nick Vlaustin, Kane Lambert and Jack Graham. Graham and Vlastuin (both hamstring) are both in doubt to play Round 1, while Lambert (hip) could be set to spent several months on the sidelines as the club ponders sending him in for surgery. A Round 1 debut looms for Pick 9 Josh Gibcus after slotting into the Tigers’ new-look back six seamlessly alongside recruit Robbie Tarrant; the pair’s inclusions would help replace Dylan Grimes, with the new club co-captain essentially ruling himself out on Wednesday following thumb surgery. Grimes said he would miss “a couple of weeks”, per AFL Media.
ST KILDA v COLLINGWOOD
Friday March 18, 7:50pm at Marvel Stadium
Saints’ AAMI Community Series team
B: C.Wilkie 44 J.Battle 26 B.Paton 33
HB: D.McKenzie 36 D.Howard 20 J.Sinclair 35
C: H.Clark 11 J.Gresham 4 B.Hill 8
HF: D.Butler 16 T.Membrey 28 J.Higgins 22
F: M.King 12 J.Billings 15 J.Hayes 47
FOLL: R.Marshall 19 J.Steele 9 S.Ross 6
I/C: J.Webster 29 R.Byrnes 13 M.Wood 32 B.Crouch 5 M.Windhager 17 N.Wanganeen-Milera 7 M.Owens 24 C.Sharman 43
EMG: D.Joyce 39 B.Long 21 T.Campbell 38 D.Kent 25
Team Tips: The injury bug has hit Brett Ratten’s side hard on the eve of the season, with Hunter Clark (AC joint) and Jack Billings (hamstring) joining Zak Jones (personal reasons), Dan Hannebery (managed), Nick Coffield (ACL), Jarryn Geary (shoulder) and Paddy Ryder (Achilles) on the sidelines. It means the Saints will be well below their full-strength team for Round 1. It could open the door for former SANFL star Jack Hayes to make his debut, only just signed by the club last week through the Supplemental Selection Period (SSP), so too Pick 11 Nasiah Wanganeen-Milera. The Saints have other ready-made replacements in Ben Long, Darragh Joyce and Dean Kent, who were overlooked at selection for the AAMI Community Series.
Magpies’ AAMI Community Series team
B: N.Murphy 28 D.Moore 30 J.Madgen 44
HB: N.Daicos 35 B.Maynard 37 S.Pendlebury 10
C: J.Daicos 7 P.Lipinski 1 S.Sidebottom 22
HF: B.McCreery 31 M.Cox 46 W.Hoskin-Elliott 32
F: N.Kreuger 15 J.De Goey 2 J.Elliott 5
FOLL: B.Grundy 4 J.Crisp 25 T.Brown 6
I/C: F.Macrae 18 J.Ginnivan 33 J.Noble 9 O.Henry 16 C.Brown 17 T.Ruscoe 21 T.Bianco 8 D.Cameron 14
EMG: C.Poulter 24 R.McInnes 26 W.Kelly 20 T.Wilson 12
Team Tips: In a major boost for Collingwood, they’ve cleared five players as available for Round 1; Jeremy Howe (adductor), Isaac Quaynor (concussion), recruit Patrick Lipinski (ankle), Brody Mihocek (illness) and Taylor Adams (hamstring). However Nathan Kreuger (concussion/suspension) will miss Round 1 and the status of Nathan Murphy (ankle), who was hurt against the Giants last Sunday, is unclear. Brayden Maynard copped a two-week ban for hitting Daniel Lloyd in the head during a marking contest, while Kreuger was given a one-match sanction. With Jordan Roughead (shoulder) and mature-aged draftee Charlie Dean (foot) sidelined, it leaves the club’s back six particularly vulnerable. Mason Cox struggled spearheading the forward line against the Giants and Darcy Cameron could replace him. Other reinforcements like Trey Ruscoe, Trent Bianco, Caleb Poulter and Will Kelly could also feature in the season opener if called upon. Nick Daicos all but locked in his official Round 1 debut after a scintillating 31-disposal performance against GWS.
Ben Cotton with staff writers from Fox Sports
March 9th, 2022 3:54 pm
Several clubs are set to unearth debutants as a new wave of players will be unleashed.
Plus the Blues get a massive boost at either end of the ground.
AFL ROUND 1 (All times AEST)
MELBOURNE v WESTERN BULLDOGS
Wednesday March 16, 7:10pm at the MCG
Demons’ AAMI Community Series team
B: J.Bowey 17 J.Lever 8 J.Smith 44
HB: J.Harmes 4 A.Tomlinson 20 J.Hunt 29
C: A.Brayshaw 10 J.Viney 7 E.Langdon 15
HF: S.Weideman 26 T.McDonald 25 T.Sparrow 32
F: B.Fritsch 31 B.Brown 50 A.Neal-Bullen 30
FOLL: M.Gawn C 11 C.Petracca 5 C.Oliver 13
I/C: L.Jackson 6 C.Spargo 9 T.Bedford 12 J.Jordon 23 O.Baker 33 K.Pickett 36 K.Chandler 37 D.Turner 42
Team Tips: The reigning premiers’ best 22 is probably the most settled of any side in the competition, with very few spots up for grabs, if that. Adam Tomlinson is back in the fold after missing last year’s flag triumph. From last year’s premiership side, Jayden Hunt takes the spot of Trent Rivers, who’s still recovering from a knee injury and racing the clock to be fit for Round 1, should he miss. Harrison Petty missed Thursday’s AAMI Community Series clash against Carlton with a sore calf, but he’ll likely not walk straight back into the best 22, now competing with Tomlinson for the same spot. Christian Salem, Steven May and Michael Hibberd also missed the Blues’ clash but are expected to be available for the season opener.
Bulldogs’ AAMI Community Series team
B: B.Dale 31 J.Schache 13 C.Daniel 35
HB: B.Williams 34 A.Keath 42 R.Smith 37
C: M.Hannan 29 M.Bontempelli 4 E.Richards 20
HF: C.Weightman 19 A.Naughton 33 J.Macrae 11
F: J.Johannisen 39 S.Martin 8 L.Vandermeer 23
FOLL: T.English 44 J.Dunkley 5 A.Treloar 1
I/C: B.Smith 6 Z.Cordy 12 H.Crozier 9 L.Hunter 7 A.Jones 32 R.McComb 27 T.Duryea 15 C.Raak 40
Team Tips:Tom Liberatore is set to slot straight back into the engine room and give the Bulldogs more grunt in the contest, with Ed Richards and Laitham Vandermeer seemingly most at risk of coming out of the side. Alex Keath suffered a shin knock in Thursday’s practice match against Brisbane and was pulled from the game for the second half, but gets plenty of time to recover for Round 1 provided it’s nothing serious, while Adam Treloar (shoulder)and Aaron Naughton (hip)were went for scans after the practice match. Despite Josh Bruce’s absence with an ACL injury, Luke Beveridge still didn’t go with Jammara Ugle-Hagan against the Lions and will likely make him earn his stripes in the VFL to start the season. Recruit Tim O’Brien, who was shaping as the likely replacement for the retired Easton Wood, also missed the practice match with a hamstring issue and is unlikely to be available to face the Demons. The Bulldogs were otherwise basically at full strength, although you can never put it past Luke Beveridge swinging a few unpredictable moves.
CARLTON v RICHMOND
Thursday March 17, 7:25pm at the MCG
Blues’ AAMI Community Series team
B: Le.Young 33 O.McDonald 39 Z.Williams 6
HB: N.Newman 24 M.McGovern 11, A.Saad 42
C: W.Setterfield 43 P.Cripps 9 L.O’Brien 4
HF: M.Owies 44 J.Silvagni 1 Z.Fisher 25
F: C.Durdin 19 H.McKay 10 T.De Koning 12
FOLL: M.Pittonet 27 G.Hewett 29 A.Cerra 5
I/C: J.Boyd 37 M.Kennedy 7 E.Curnow 5 J.Martin 21 T.Williamson 31 L.Parks 26 M.Cottrell 46 L.Plowman 20
EMG: L.Fogarty 8, J.Newnes 32 P.Dow 2 A.Mirkov 45
Team Tips: The Blues are set to welcome back Charlie Curnow and Jacob Weitering, who were both rested for last Thursday’s AAMI Community Series clash against Melbourne, to give Michael Voss’ side a massive boost at either end of the ground. The key position pair could replace Oscar McDonald and potentially Tom De Koning or Marc Pittonet. Sam Docherty has put himself right in the frame for an inspirational return to the senior side after racking up 38 disposals in a VFL practice match against the Casey Demons, with Jordan Boyd the one who could make way for the ex-skipper. CoreyDurdin impressed with two goals in the first half before leaving the field with a calf injury, but Voss said post-match it was nothing to worry about.Sam Walsh is making a shock bid for an early return for a syndesmosis injury suffered a month ago. Originally expected to miss 8-10 weeks, the superstar midfielder is “chomping at the bit for Round 1” according to captain Patrick Cripps, though Round 2 or 3 looks more likely.
Tigers’ AAMI Community Series team
B: D.Grimes 2 R.Tarrant 6 J.Gibcus 28
HB: J.Short 15 N.Broad 35 D.Rioli 17
C: J.Ross 5 T.Cotchin 9 K.McIntosh 33
HF: S.Bolton 29 L.Baker 7 S.Edwards 10
F: N.Balta 21 T.Lynch 19 J.Riewoldt 8
FOLL: T.Nankervis 25 D.Prestia 3 D.Martin 4
I/C: H.Ralphsmith 45 I.Soldo 20 J.Aarts 16 J.Castagna 11 B.Nyuon 47 T.Brown 30 W.Martyn 36 M.Rioli 49
EMG: B.Miller 46 S.Ryan 32 M.Pickett 50 M.Parker 37
Team Tips: The Tigers named a strong side for their final practice match ahead of Round 1, but were without injured trio Nick Vlaustin, Kane Lambert and Jack Graham. Graham and Vlastuin (both hamstring) are both in doubt to play Round 1, while Lambert (hip) could be set to spent several months on the sidelines as the club ponders sending him in for surgery. A Round 1 debut looms for Pick 9 Josh Gibcus after slotting into the Tigers’ new-look back six seamlessly alongside recruit Robbie Tarrant; the pair’s inclusions would help replace Dylan Grimes, with the new club co-captain essentially ruling himself out on Wednesday following thumb surgery. Grimes said he would miss “a couple of weeks”, per AFL Media.
ST KILDA v COLLINGWOOD
Friday March 18, 7:50pm at Marvel Stadium
Saints’ AAMI Community Series team
B: C.Wilkie 44 J.Battle 26 B.Paton 33
HB: D.McKenzie 36 D.Howard 20 J.Sinclair 35
C: H.Clark 11 J.Gresham 4 B.Hill 8
HF: D.Butler 16 T.Membrey 28 J.Higgins 22
F: M.King 12 J.Billings 15 J.Hayes 47
FOLL: R.Marshall 19 J.Steele 9 S.Ross 6
I/C: J.Webster 29 R.Byrnes 13 M.Wood 32 B.Crouch 5 M.Windhager 17 N.Wanganeen-Milera 7 M.Owens 24 C.Sharman 43
EMG: D.Joyce 39 B.Long 21 T.Campbell 38 D.Kent 25
Team Tips: The injury bug has hit Brett Ratten’s side hard on the eve of the season, with Hunter Clark (AC joint) and Jack Billings (hamstring) joining Zak Jones (personal reasons), Dan Hannebery (managed), Nick Coffield (ACL), Jarryn Geary (shoulder) and Paddy Ryder (Achilles) on the sidelines. It means the Saints will be well below their full-strength team for Round 1. It could open the door for former SANFL star Jack Hayes to make his debut, only just signed by the club last week through the Supplemental Selection Period (SSP), so too Pick 11 Nasiah Wanganeen-Milera. The Saints have other ready-made replacements in Ben Long, Darragh Joyce and Dean Kent, who were overlooked at selection for the AAMI Community Series.
Magpies’ AAMI Community Series team
B: N.Murphy 28 D.Moore 30 J.Madgen 44
HB: N.Daicos 35 B.Maynard 37 S.Pendlebury 10
C: J.Daicos 7 P.Lipinski 1 S.Sidebottom 22
HF: B.McCreery 31 M.Cox 46 W.Hoskin-Elliott 32
F: N.Kreuger 15 J.De Goey 2 J.Elliott 5
FOLL: B.Grundy 4 J.Crisp 25 T.Brown 6
I/C: F.Macrae 18 J.Ginnivan 33 J.Noble 9 O.Henry 16 C.Brown 17 T.Ruscoe 21 T.Bianco 8 D.Cameron 14
EMG: C.Poulter 24 R.McInnes 26 W.Kelly 20 T.Wilson 12
Team Tips: In a major boost for Collingwood, they’ve cleared five players as available for Round 1; Jeremy Howe (adductor), Isaac Quaynor (concussion), recruit Patrick Lipinski (ankle), Brody Mihocek (illness) and Taylor Adams (hamstring). However Nathan Kreuger (concussion/suspension) will miss Round 1 and the status of Nathan Murphy (ankle), who was hurt against the Giants last Sunday, is unclear. Brayden Maynard copped a two-week ban for hitting Daniel Lloyd in the head during a marking contest, while Kreuger was given a one-match sanction. With Jordan Roughead (shoulder) and mature-aged draftee Charlie Dean (foot) sidelined, it leaves the club’s back six particularly vulnerable. Mason Cox struggled spearheading the forward line against the Giants and Darcy Cameron could replace him. Other reinforcements like Trey Ruscoe, Trent Bianco, Caleb Poulter and Will Kelly could also feature in the season opener if called upon. Nick Daicos all but locked in his official Round 1 debut after a scintillating 31-disposal performance against GWS.
GEELONG CATS v ESSENDON
Saturday March 19, 2:10pm at the MCG
Cats’ AAMI Community Series team
B: Z.Guthrie 39 M.Blicavs 46 S.De Koning 16
HB: Z.Tuohy 2 J.Kolodjashnij 8 J.Bews 24
C: B.Close 45 C.Guthrie 29 I.Smith 7
HF: S.Higgins 4 E.Ratugolea 17 T.Stengle 18
F: J.Cameron 5 T.Hawkins 26 M.Holmes 9
FOLL: R.Stanley 1 P.Dangerfield 35 B.Parfitt 3
I/C: T.Atkins 30 S.Neale 33 N.Stevens 21 L.Dahlhaus 40 F.Evans 31 Q.Narkle 19 J.Selwood 14 C.Stephens 12
EMG: M.Knevitt 10 C.Whyte 11 O.Dempsey 28 P.Tsapatolis 36
Team Tips: Chris Scott was without several members of his best 22 in the club’s AAMI Community series clash against Gold Coast, most notably Mitch Duncan and Tom Stewart, while Gary Rohan, Sam Menegola, Jack Henry, Gryan Miers and Jonathon Ceglar were also missing. It’s currently unclear how many will be available for Round 1, with Menegola (knee), Henry (foot), Duncan (calf), Ceglar (knee) and Miers (ankle) all battling issues over the pre-season. It could leave Rhys Stanley to lead the club’s ruck division to open the season. Elsewhere, Sam De Koning is in the mix for an early debut in a key defensive role, while Tyson Stengle figures to play his first official game for the club since crossing from Adelaide. Jew Bews will be touch and go for Round 1 after suffering a concussion in Monday’s AAMI Community Series clash against the Suns.
Bombers’ AAMI Community Series team
B: J.Laverde 15 J.Stewart 17 T.Cutler 12
HB: N.Hind 19 J.Ridley 14 Z.Merrett 7
C: N.Cox 13 A.McGrath 1 D.Heppell 21
HF: W.Snelling 11 H.Jones 23 K.Baldwin 26
F: M.Guelfi 35 P.Wright 20 D.Smith 5
FOLL: S.Draper 2 D.Parish 3 J.Caldwell 6
I/C: A.Perkins 16 M.Redman 27 K.Langford 4 B.Ham 33 N.Martin 47 B.Zerk-Thatcher 30 N.Bryan 24 B.Hobbs 8
EMG: A.Waterman 45 S.Durham 22 D.Shiel 9 T.Wanganeen 43
Team Tips: Jake Stringer hasn’t featured in the pre-season with a groin complaint but said he expects to play against Geelong. Jake Kelly missed the AAMI Community Series clash against St Kilda but will slot straight back into the Bombers’ back six and help Jordan Ridley play his intercept defending role, with James Stewart and Tom Cutler at risk of coming out of the side, while Dylan Shiel is also set to return. Kaine Baldwin impressed in a key forward supporting role to Peter Wright as a potential Round 1 debut looms, while Ben Hobbs will also be in the mix to play his first game. Michael Hurley andAnthony McDonald-Tipungwuti are still some way away from being available for selection.
GWS GIANTS v SYDNEY SWANS
Saturday March 19, 5:10pm at Accor Stadium
Giants’ AAMI Community Series team
B: I.Cumming 13 S.Taylor 15 P.Davis 1
HB: L.Whitfield 6 L.Keeffe 25 H.Perryman 36
C: L.Ash 7 T.Green 12 X.O’Halloran 33
HF: T.Taranto 14 J.Riccardi 26 D.Lloyd 38
F: B.Hill 37 H.Himmelberg 27 C.Stone 18
FOLL: M.Flynn 30 J.Kelly 22 S.Coniglio 3
I/C: J.Hopper 2 C.Ward 8 T.Bruhn 5 B.Preuss 11 C.Idun 39 J.Brander 31 J.Peatling 20 R.Angwin 9
EMG: L.Aleer 21 J.Stein 42 W.Shaw 35 A.Kennedy 40
Team Tips: The Giants were essentially at full strength against the Magpies on Sunday and boy did they look good. Jesse Hogan may not walk straight back into the team after a strong showing from Jake Riccardi, who booted an equal game-high three goals. Matt de Boer also missed due to being in the health and safety protocols but also isn’t a lock for the best 22 anymore. Daniel Lloyd (concussion) and Connor Stone (ankle) suffered setbacks against Collingwood, while Braydon Preuss copped a one-match for a dangerous tackle on Brodie Grundy, meaning we won’t know what Leon Cameron’s preferred ruck setup is straight away. Of course, Toby Greene will miss the first five weeks of the season in the carry over from his suspension for making contact with an umpire, with Tim Taranto set to spend more time up forward in the early rounds.
Swans’ AAMI Community Series team
B: T.McCartin 30 D.Rampe 24 H.Cunningham 7
HB: J.McInerney 27 S.Reid 20 B.Campbell 16
C: J.Lloyd 44 J.Kennedy 12 N.Blakey 22
HF: I.Heeney 5 P.McCartin 39 E.Gulden 21
F: C.Warner 1 L.McDonald 6 W.Hayward 9
FOLL: T.Hickey 31 L.Parker 26 J.Rowbottom 8
I/C: O.Florent 13 H.McLean 2 B.Ronke 25 C.Mills 14 D.Stephens 3 L.McAndrew 46 S.Wicks 15 M.Roberts 34
EMG: A.Sheldrick 29 P.Ladhams 19 R.Fox 42 J.Bell 32
Team Tips: Like its cross-town rival and Round 1 opponent, Sydney also took a strong team into its AAMI Community Series clash with the Kangaroos. However Lance Franklin will slot straight back into the forward line, but who comes out isn’t as clear. Paddy McCartin moved well against North and did his prospects of a club debut no harm. Isaac Heeney was touted for more midfield time over the pre-season but played predominantly forward against the Roos, booting four goals. While Franklin’s return could push him further up the ground, the Swans may need him in attack with Tom Papley set to miss the early rounds of the season with a hamstring injury. Hayden McLean played the backup ruck role against North but recruit Peter Ladhams will also be pressing for selection.
BRISBANE LIONS v PORT ADELAIDE
Saturday March 19, 8:10pm at the Gabba
Lions’ AAMI Community Series team
B: B.Starcevich 37 D.Gardiner 27 M.Adams 24
HB: D.Rich 10 H.Andrews 31 N.Answerth 43
C: H.McCluggage 6 Z.Bailey 33 M.Robinson 5
HF: L.McCarthy 11 D.McStay 25 C.Rayner 16
F: C.Cameron 23 J.Daniher 3 N.Cockatoo 12
FOLL: O.McInerney 46 L.Neale 9 J.Lyons 17
I/C: C.Ah Chee 4 J.Berry 7 J.Madden 14 K.Coleman 18 T.Fullarton 21 H.Sharp 22 D.Fort 32 J.Payne 40
EMG: D.Robertson 2 J.Prior 20 R.Lester 35 R.Mathieson 36
Team Tips Dayne Zorko (close Covid-19 contact) and Eric Hipwood (knee) were the only key Lions not named for the club’s AAMI Community Series clash against the Western Bulldogs, while Cam Rayner (family matter) and Darcy Gardiner (tight quad) pulled out just before the bounce. In a run of unfortunate setbacks on the night, the in-form Keidean Coleman hurt his hamstring, while Deven Robertson (hamstring) and James Madden (leg) also went down. Nakia Cockatoo and Callum Ah Chee are most on the outer if Brisbane opts to make further changes, while Darcy Fort will be in the mix to play his first game for the club.
Power’s AAMI Community Series team
B: R.Burton 3 T.Clurey 17 A.Aliir 21
HB: D.Houston 5 T.Jonas 1 D.Byrne-Jones 33
C: R.Bonner 26 O.Wines 16 K.Amon 15
HF: Z.Butters 18 M.Georgiades 19 C.Rozee 20
F: J.Finlayson 11 T.Marshall 4 R.Gray 9
FOLL: S.Lycett 29 W.Drew 28 T.Boak 10
I/C: S.Hayes 25 J.Mead 44 J.McEntee 41 J.Sinn 8 X.Duursma 7 T.McKenzie 12 L.Jones 34 S.Mayes 32
EMG: S.Skinner 31 D.Visentini 38 M.Frederick 45 J.Pasini 48
Team Tips:Jeremy Finlayson created selection headaches for Ken Hinkley ahead of Round 1 if Charlie Dixon (ankle) becomes available, combining with Mitch Georgiades for seven goals in the club’s AAMI Community Series win over the Adelaide Crows. The Power can’t fit all of Finlayson, Dixon, Georgiades and Todd Marshall in the same forward line, can they? Potentially joining Dixon on the sidelines to start the season is Robbie Gray after tweaking his hamstring against the Crows. Sam Powell-Pepper was also missing with a hamstring issue, but it’s only considered minor, so he could take Jackson Mead’s spot, while Orazio Fantasia is set for a lengthy lay-off after undergoing knee surgery last month. Pick 12 Josh Sinn is in the frame for a Round 1 debut, although he only played in the second half on the weekend, and it’s a tough Power line-up to crack into.
Saturday March 19, 2:10pm at the MCG
Cats’ AAMI Community Series team
B: Z.Guthrie 39 M.Blicavs 46 S.De Koning 16
HB: Z.Tuohy 2 J.Kolodjashnij 8 J.Bews 24
C: B.Close 45 C.Guthrie 29 I.Smith 7
HF: S.Higgins 4 E.Ratugolea 17 T.Stengle 18
F: J.Cameron 5 T.Hawkins 26 M.Holmes 9
FOLL: R.Stanley 1 P.Dangerfield 35 B.Parfitt 3
I/C: T.Atkins 30 S.Neale 33 N.Stevens 21 L.Dahlhaus 40 F.Evans 31 Q.Narkle 19 J.Selwood 14 C.Stephens 12
EMG: M.Knevitt 10 C.Whyte 11 O.Dempsey 28 P.Tsapatolis 36
Team Tips: Chris Scott was without several members of his best 22 in the club’s AAMI Community series clash against Gold Coast, most notably Mitch Duncan and Tom Stewart, while Gary Rohan, Sam Menegola, Jack Henry, Gryan Miers and Jonathon Ceglar were also missing. It’s currently unclear how many will be available for Round 1, with Menegola (knee), Henry (foot), Duncan (calf), Ceglar (knee) and Miers (ankle) all battling issues over the pre-season. It could leave Rhys Stanley to lead the club’s ruck division to open the season. Elsewhere, Sam De Koning is in the mix for an early debut in a key defensive role, while Tyson Stengle figures to play his first official game for the club since crossing from Adelaide. Jew Bews will be touch and go for Round 1 after suffering a concussion in Monday’s AAMI Community Series clash against the Suns.
Bombers’ AAMI Community Series team
B: J.Laverde 15 J.Stewart 17 T.Cutler 12
HB: N.Hind 19 J.Ridley 14 Z.Merrett 7
C: N.Cox 13 A.McGrath 1 D.Heppell 21
HF: W.Snelling 11 H.Jones 23 K.Baldwin 26
F: M.Guelfi 35 P.Wright 20 D.Smith 5
FOLL: S.Draper 2 D.Parish 3 J.Caldwell 6
I/C: A.Perkins 16 M.Redman 27 K.Langford 4 B.Ham 33 N.Martin 47 B.Zerk-Thatcher 30 N.Bryan 24 B.Hobbs 8
EMG: A.Waterman 45 S.Durham 22 D.Shiel 9 T.Wanganeen 43
Team Tips: Jake Stringer hasn’t featured in the pre-season with a groin complaint but said he expects to play against Geelong. Jake Kelly missed the AAMI Community Series clash against St Kilda but will slot straight back into the Bombers’ back six and help Jordan Ridley play his intercept defending role, with James Stewart and Tom Cutler at risk of coming out of the side, while Dylan Shiel is also set to return. Kaine Baldwin impressed in a key forward supporting role to Peter Wright as a potential Round 1 debut looms, while Ben Hobbs will also be in the mix to play his first game. Michael Hurley andAnthony McDonald-Tipungwuti are still some way away from being available for selection.
GWS GIANTS v SYDNEY SWANS
Saturday March 19, 5:10pm at Accor Stadium
Giants’ AAMI Community Series team
B: I.Cumming 13 S.Taylor 15 P.Davis 1
HB: L.Whitfield 6 L.Keeffe 25 H.Perryman 36
C: L.Ash 7 T.Green 12 X.O’Halloran 33
HF: T.Taranto 14 J.Riccardi 26 D.Lloyd 38
F: B.Hill 37 H.Himmelberg 27 C.Stone 18
FOLL: M.Flynn 30 J.Kelly 22 S.Coniglio 3
I/C: J.Hopper 2 C.Ward 8 T.Bruhn 5 B.Preuss 11 C.Idun 39 J.Brander 31 J.Peatling 20 R.Angwin 9
EMG: L.Aleer 21 J.Stein 42 W.Shaw 35 A.Kennedy 40
Team Tips: The Giants were essentially at full strength against the Magpies on Sunday and boy did they look good. Jesse Hogan may not walk straight back into the team after a strong showing from Jake Riccardi, who booted an equal game-high three goals. Matt de Boer also missed due to being in the health and safety protocols but also isn’t a lock for the best 22 anymore. Daniel Lloyd (concussion) and Connor Stone (ankle) suffered setbacks against Collingwood, while Braydon Preuss copped a one-match for a dangerous tackle on Brodie Grundy, meaning we won’t know what Leon Cameron’s preferred ruck setup is straight away. Of course, Toby Greene will miss the first five weeks of the season in the carry over from his suspension for making contact with an umpire, with Tim Taranto set to spend more time up forward in the early rounds.
Swans’ AAMI Community Series team
B: T.McCartin 30 D.Rampe 24 H.Cunningham 7
HB: J.McInerney 27 S.Reid 20 B.Campbell 16
C: J.Lloyd 44 J.Kennedy 12 N.Blakey 22
HF: I.Heeney 5 P.McCartin 39 E.Gulden 21
F: C.Warner 1 L.McDonald 6 W.Hayward 9
FOLL: T.Hickey 31 L.Parker 26 J.Rowbottom 8
I/C: O.Florent 13 H.McLean 2 B.Ronke 25 C.Mills 14 D.Stephens 3 L.McAndrew 46 S.Wicks 15 M.Roberts 34
EMG: A.Sheldrick 29 P.Ladhams 19 R.Fox 42 J.Bell 32
Team Tips: Like its cross-town rival and Round 1 opponent, Sydney also took a strong team into its AAMI Community Series clash with the Kangaroos. However Lance Franklin will slot straight back into the forward line, but who comes out isn’t as clear. Paddy McCartin moved well against North and did his prospects of a club debut no harm. Isaac Heeney was touted for more midfield time over the pre-season but played predominantly forward against the Roos, booting four goals. While Franklin’s return could push him further up the ground, the Swans may need him in attack with Tom Papley set to miss the early rounds of the season with a hamstring injury. Hayden McLean played the backup ruck role against North but recruit Peter Ladhams will also be pressing for selection.
BRISBANE LIONS v PORT ADELAIDE
Saturday March 19, 8:10pm at the Gabba
Lions’ AAMI Community Series team
B: B.Starcevich 37 D.Gardiner 27 M.Adams 24
HB: D.Rich 10 H.Andrews 31 N.Answerth 43
C: H.McCluggage 6 Z.Bailey 33 M.Robinson 5
HF: L.McCarthy 11 D.McStay 25 C.Rayner 16
F: C.Cameron 23 J.Daniher 3 N.Cockatoo 12
FOLL: O.McInerney 46 L.Neale 9 J.Lyons 17
I/C: C.Ah Chee 4 J.Berry 7 J.Madden 14 K.Coleman 18 T.Fullarton 21 H.Sharp 22 D.Fort 32 J.Payne 40
EMG: D.Robertson 2 J.Prior 20 R.Lester 35 R.Mathieson 36
Team Tips Dayne Zorko (close Covid-19 contact) and Eric Hipwood (knee) were the only key Lions not named for the club’s AAMI Community Series clash against the Western Bulldogs, while Cam Rayner (family matter) and Darcy Gardiner (tight quad) pulled out just before the bounce. In a run of unfortunate setbacks on the night, the in-form Keidean Coleman hurt his hamstring, while Deven Robertson (hamstring) and James Madden (leg) also went down. Nakia Cockatoo and Callum Ah Chee are most on the outer if Brisbane opts to make further changes, while Darcy Fort will be in the mix to play his first game for the club.
Power’s AAMI Community Series team
B: R.Burton 3 T.Clurey 17 A.Aliir 21
HB: D.Houston 5 T.Jonas 1 D.Byrne-Jones 33
C: R.Bonner 26 O.Wines 16 K.Amon 15
HF: Z.Butters 18 M.Georgiades 19 C.Rozee 20
F: J.Finlayson 11 T.Marshall 4 R.Gray 9
FOLL: S.Lycett 29 W.Drew 28 T.Boak 10
I/C: S.Hayes 25 J.Mead 44 J.McEntee 41 J.Sinn 8 X.Duursma 7 T.McKenzie 12 L.Jones 34 S.Mayes 32
EMG: S.Skinner 31 D.Visentini 38 M.Frederick 45 J.Pasini 48
Team Tips:Jeremy Finlayson created selection headaches for Ken Hinkley ahead of Round 1 if Charlie Dixon (ankle) becomes available, combining with Mitch Georgiades for seven goals in the club’s AAMI Community Series win over the Adelaide Crows. The Power can’t fit all of Finlayson, Dixon, Georgiades and Todd Marshall in the same forward line, can they? Potentially joining Dixon on the sidelines to start the season is Robbie Gray after tweaking his hamstring against the Crows. Sam Powell-Pepper was also missing with a hamstring issue, but it’s only considered minor, so he could take Jackson Mead’s spot, while Orazio Fantasia is set for a lengthy lay-off after undergoing knee surgery last month. Pick 12 Josh Sinn is in the frame for a Round 1 debut, although he only played in the second half on the weekend, and it’s a tough Power line-up to crack into.
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HAWTHORN v NORTH MELBOURNE
Sunday March 20, 1:10pm at the MCG
Hawks’ AAMI Community Series team
B: B.Hardwick 15 S.Frost 8 D.Grainger-Barras 24
HB: C.Nash 11 J.Sicily 6 J.Scrimshaw 14
C: L.Shiels 26 C.Wingard 20 H.Morrison 1
HF: J.Worpel 5 J.Gunston 19 L.Breust 22
F: D.Moore 13 M.Lewis 2 B.McEvoy 7
FOLL: N.Reeves 37 J.Newcombe 44 T.Phillips 21
I/C: F.Maginness 32 C.Macdonald 31 J.Koschitzke 23 T.Brockman 33 N.Long 27 J.Ward 25 M.Lynch 18 E.Jeka 39
EMG: J.Callow 45 S.Butler 30 S.Mitchell 40 J.Saunders 43
Team Tips: The Hawks were without an array of best 22 players against Richmond over the weekend, namely Tom Mitchell, Jaeger O’Meara, Jarman Impey, Will Day, Changkuoth Jiath and Kyle Hartigan. Josh Ward all but ensured his Round 1 berth after a promising performance against the Tigers, while fellow draftee Connor Maconald may be relying on some of their injured bodies to not get up. Mitchell, O’Meara and Hartigan are expected to be available, while Impey and Jiath’s availability is less clear. Ned Reeves played first ruck and appears to have beaten out recruit Max Lynch for the role for now.
Kangaroos’ AAMI Community Series team
B: J.Ziebell 7 A.Corr 4 K.Turner 28
HB: L.McDonald 11 J.Walker 19 La.Young 17
C: B.Scott 8 H.Greenwood 18 J.Polec 13
HF: T.Thomas 26 N.Larkey 20 C.Taylor 5
F: J.Mahony 1 J.Stephenson 2 J.Horne-Francis 6
FOLL: T.Xerri 38 L.Davies-Uniacke 9 J.Simpkin 12
I/C: T.Goldstein 22 T.Powell 24 W.Phillips 29 J.Goater 31 C.Lazzaro 35 K.Hayden 37 E.Ford 40 C.Zurhaar 44
EMG: A.Bosenavulagi 15 P.Curtis 25 M.Bergman 27 P.Walker 33
Team Tips:Tristan Xerri’s strong pre-season showing against Sydney will give David Noble plenty to think about ahead of next week’s season-opening clash against Hawthorn, with Callum Coleman-Jones missing from the contest. Can the Roos fit Xerri, Coleman-Jones and Todd Goldstein all into the same side? Pick 1 Jason-Horne-Francis shined on the weekend to likely secure his official debut in Round 1. Ben McKay missed the game due to concussion protocols and will slot straight back into the Roos’ back six, with Lachie Young the one who could make way. Jed Anderson has returned to the club, ending his vaccine standoff, but how close he is to playing isn’t clear. Aaron Hall could miss Round 1 after injuring his hamstring against Hawthorn in the practice match a fortnight ago.
ADELAIDE CROWS v FREMANTLE
Sunday March 20, 4:10pm at Adelaide Oval
Crows’ AAMI Community Series team
B: L.Brown 16 J.Butts 41 N.Murray 28
HB: B.Smith 33 C.Jones 1 A.McPherson 36
C: L.Sholl 38 R.Laird 29 M.Hinge 20
HF: J.Rachele 8 B.Keays 2 N.McHenry 25
F: R.Thilthorpe 7 D.Fogarty 32 E.Himmelberg 34
FOLL: R.O’Brien 43 R.Sloane 9 H.Schoenberg 26
I/C: L.Gollant 44 J.Soligo 14 M.Crouch 5 T.Doedee 39 L.Pedlar 10 S.Berry 21 B.Davis 40 K.Strachan 45
EMG: J.Rowe 31 B.Cook 15 B.Frampton 22 W.Hamill 17
Team Tips:Rory Laird is set to be sidelined for the next four to six weeks with a broken hand sustained against the Power on the weekend in a cruel blow, while Luke Pedlar injured his hamstring. Laird’s absence could open the door for Sam Berry to earn a reprieve. Meanwhile, Paul Seedsman’s return from a lingering concussion is uncertain, while Jordan Dawson should return from calf soreness to make his club debut.Wayne Milera played in the SANFL side on the weekend as he works his way to back to full fitness after missing all of last year through injury and appears an outside chance to be in the senior team Round 1. Of course, Taylor Walker will miss at least the first three games of the season for his racism incident.
Dockers’ AAMI Community Series team
B: L.Ryan 13 B.Cox 36 A.Pearce 25
HB: H.Young 26 G.Logue 2 J.Clark 6
C: A.Brayshaw 8 W.Brodie 17 L.Henry 23
HF: T.Colyer 33 B.Acres 9 M.Walters 10
F: M.Taberner 20 R.Lobb 37 L.Schultz 5
FOLL: S.Darcy 4 C.Serong 3 S.Switkowski 39
I/C: M.Frederick 32 B.Banfield 41 M.Crowden 12 D.Mundy 16 H.Chapman 27 N.Wilson 14 E.Hughes 15 L.Meek 22
EMG: N.O’Driscoll 30 C.Blakely 19 J.Hamling 21 J.Western 34
Team Tips: Only Nat Fyfe (shoulder) and Darcy Tucker (hamstring) were on the weekend missing from the Dockers’ best 22 and should be ready for Round 1. Rory Lobb (ribs) and Nathan Wilson (shoulder) hurt themselves against West Coast and the latter’s setback is considered more serious, requiring scans.None of the Dockers’ draftees played, but recruits Will Brodie and Jordan Clark impressed and are set to be named Round 1. Nathan O‘Driscoll was considered the most likely Docker in contention to debut in the season opener, but he may have to wait given the club is essentially at full strength, and it’s not an easy side to crack anymore.
WEST COAST EAGLES v GOLD COAST SUNS
Sunday March 20, 7:40pm at Optus Stadium
Eagles’ AAMI Community Series team
B: J.Rotham 35 T.Barrass 37 S.Hurn 25
HB: A.Witherden 23 J.McGovern 20 J.Nelson 30
C: A.Gaff 3 J.Redden 8 L.Foley 29
HF: J.Petruccelle 21 H.Dixon 41 W.Rioli 44
F: L.Ryan 1 J.Kennedy 17 B.Williams 32
FOLL: N.Naitanui 9 T.Kelly 11 J.Jones 31
I/C: Z.Langdon 7 S.Petrevski-Seton 10 B.Hough 19 X.O’Neill 24 T.Joyce 26 C.West 36 P.Naish 38 C.Jamieson 40
EMG: I.Winder 22 J.Williams 34 J.Waterman 2 L.Edwards 16
Team Tips: West Coast is missing a long list of players from its best 22 including Dom Sheed, Jamie Cripps, Jack Darling, Oscar Allen, Elliot Yeo, Luke Shuey and Jack Darling. Unfortunately, only Shuey and Duggan are in the mix to play Round 1, while Alex Witherden copped a one-match ban to to add to their woes. Brady Hough put his hand up to debut in the season opener against Gold Coast after a solid showing across half back against Fremantle, while rookie signing Hugh Dixon was well held. Patrick Naish impressedwith 14 disposals in the second half, but is still vying for a rookie spot altogether. Recruit Sam Petrevski-Seton is also likely to line-up Round 1 despite a quiet outing against Freo. Meanwhile, Willie Rioli is set to play his first AFL game since 2019.
Suns’ AAMI Community Series team
B: W.Powell 27 S.Collins 25 S.Lemmens 23
HB: C.Graham 46 C.Ballard 10 L.Weller 14
C: B.Ellis 4 N.Anderson 15 R.Atkins 2
HF: B.Ainsworth 9 L.Casboult 30 J.Lukosius 13
F: N.Holman 7 M.Chol 1 I.Rankine 22
FOLL: J.Witts 28 T.Miller 11 M.Rowell 18
I/C: A.Davies 5 B.Fiorini 8 S.Flanders 26 D.Macpherson 44 N.Moyle 49 D.Swallow 24 A.Sexton 6 R.Thompson 16
EMG: C.Burgess 29 J.Corbett 19 J.Jeffrey 40 O.Markov 17
Team Tips: Skipper Jarrod Witts was thought to be touch and go for Round 1 in his recovery from an ACL injury, so playing in the club’s AAMI Community Series clash against Geelong is a huge boost. With Ben King (ACL) and Sam Day (wrist) sidelined, recruits Levi Casboult and Mabior Chol have been left to spearhead the forward line, although the latter hurt his hamstring against the Cats and is now in doubt for Round 1. Elsewhere, Charlie Constable (adductor) and Jack Bowes (shoulder) will miss the start of the season, while Elijah Hollands wasn’t named for their final pre-season hitout, so too Pick 5 Mac Andrew, who appears a way off making his debut. Matt Rowell will hope to finally get a good run at it after his first seasons in the league have been cruelled by injury.
Sunday March 20, 1:10pm at the MCG
Hawks’ AAMI Community Series team
B: B.Hardwick 15 S.Frost 8 D.Grainger-Barras 24
HB: C.Nash 11 J.Sicily 6 J.Scrimshaw 14
C: L.Shiels 26 C.Wingard 20 H.Morrison 1
HF: J.Worpel 5 J.Gunston 19 L.Breust 22
F: D.Moore 13 M.Lewis 2 B.McEvoy 7
FOLL: N.Reeves 37 J.Newcombe 44 T.Phillips 21
I/C: F.Maginness 32 C.Macdonald 31 J.Koschitzke 23 T.Brockman 33 N.Long 27 J.Ward 25 M.Lynch 18 E.Jeka 39
EMG: J.Callow 45 S.Butler 30 S.Mitchell 40 J.Saunders 43
Team Tips: The Hawks were without an array of best 22 players against Richmond over the weekend, namely Tom Mitchell, Jaeger O’Meara, Jarman Impey, Will Day, Changkuoth Jiath and Kyle Hartigan. Josh Ward all but ensured his Round 1 berth after a promising performance against the Tigers, while fellow draftee Connor Maconald may be relying on some of their injured bodies to not get up. Mitchell, O’Meara and Hartigan are expected to be available, while Impey and Jiath’s availability is less clear. Ned Reeves played first ruck and appears to have beaten out recruit Max Lynch for the role for now.
Kangaroos’ AAMI Community Series team
B: J.Ziebell 7 A.Corr 4 K.Turner 28
HB: L.McDonald 11 J.Walker 19 La.Young 17
C: B.Scott 8 H.Greenwood 18 J.Polec 13
HF: T.Thomas 26 N.Larkey 20 C.Taylor 5
F: J.Mahony 1 J.Stephenson 2 J.Horne-Francis 6
FOLL: T.Xerri 38 L.Davies-Uniacke 9 J.Simpkin 12
I/C: T.Goldstein 22 T.Powell 24 W.Phillips 29 J.Goater 31 C.Lazzaro 35 K.Hayden 37 E.Ford 40 C.Zurhaar 44
EMG: A.Bosenavulagi 15 P.Curtis 25 M.Bergman 27 P.Walker 33
Team Tips:Tristan Xerri’s strong pre-season showing against Sydney will give David Noble plenty to think about ahead of next week’s season-opening clash against Hawthorn, with Callum Coleman-Jones missing from the contest. Can the Roos fit Xerri, Coleman-Jones and Todd Goldstein all into the same side? Pick 1 Jason-Horne-Francis shined on the weekend to likely secure his official debut in Round 1. Ben McKay missed the game due to concussion protocols and will slot straight back into the Roos’ back six, with Lachie Young the one who could make way. Jed Anderson has returned to the club, ending his vaccine standoff, but how close he is to playing isn’t clear. Aaron Hall could miss Round 1 after injuring his hamstring against Hawthorn in the practice match a fortnight ago.
ADELAIDE CROWS v FREMANTLE
Sunday March 20, 4:10pm at Adelaide Oval
Crows’ AAMI Community Series team
B: L.Brown 16 J.Butts 41 N.Murray 28
HB: B.Smith 33 C.Jones 1 A.McPherson 36
C: L.Sholl 38 R.Laird 29 M.Hinge 20
HF: J.Rachele 8 B.Keays 2 N.McHenry 25
F: R.Thilthorpe 7 D.Fogarty 32 E.Himmelberg 34
FOLL: R.O’Brien 43 R.Sloane 9 H.Schoenberg 26
I/C: L.Gollant 44 J.Soligo 14 M.Crouch 5 T.Doedee 39 L.Pedlar 10 S.Berry 21 B.Davis 40 K.Strachan 45
EMG: J.Rowe 31 B.Cook 15 B.Frampton 22 W.Hamill 17
Team Tips:Rory Laird is set to be sidelined for the next four to six weeks with a broken hand sustained against the Power on the weekend in a cruel blow, while Luke Pedlar injured his hamstring. Laird’s absence could open the door for Sam Berry to earn a reprieve. Meanwhile, Paul Seedsman’s return from a lingering concussion is uncertain, while Jordan Dawson should return from calf soreness to make his club debut.Wayne Milera played in the SANFL side on the weekend as he works his way to back to full fitness after missing all of last year through injury and appears an outside chance to be in the senior team Round 1. Of course, Taylor Walker will miss at least the first three games of the season for his racism incident.
Dockers’ AAMI Community Series team
B: L.Ryan 13 B.Cox 36 A.Pearce 25
HB: H.Young 26 G.Logue 2 J.Clark 6
C: A.Brayshaw 8 W.Brodie 17 L.Henry 23
HF: T.Colyer 33 B.Acres 9 M.Walters 10
F: M.Taberner 20 R.Lobb 37 L.Schultz 5
FOLL: S.Darcy 4 C.Serong 3 S.Switkowski 39
I/C: M.Frederick 32 B.Banfield 41 M.Crowden 12 D.Mundy 16 H.Chapman 27 N.Wilson 14 E.Hughes 15 L.Meek 22
EMG: N.O’Driscoll 30 C.Blakely 19 J.Hamling 21 J.Western 34
Team Tips: Only Nat Fyfe (shoulder) and Darcy Tucker (hamstring) were on the weekend missing from the Dockers’ best 22 and should be ready for Round 1. Rory Lobb (ribs) and Nathan Wilson (shoulder) hurt themselves against West Coast and the latter’s setback is considered more serious, requiring scans.None of the Dockers’ draftees played, but recruits Will Brodie and Jordan Clark impressed and are set to be named Round 1. Nathan O‘Driscoll was considered the most likely Docker in contention to debut in the season opener, but he may have to wait given the club is essentially at full strength, and it’s not an easy side to crack anymore.
WEST COAST EAGLES v GOLD COAST SUNS
Sunday March 20, 7:40pm at Optus Stadium
Eagles’ AAMI Community Series team
B: J.Rotham 35 T.Barrass 37 S.Hurn 25
HB: A.Witherden 23 J.McGovern 20 J.Nelson 30
C: A.Gaff 3 J.Redden 8 L.Foley 29
HF: J.Petruccelle 21 H.Dixon 41 W.Rioli 44
F: L.Ryan 1 J.Kennedy 17 B.Williams 32
FOLL: N.Naitanui 9 T.Kelly 11 J.Jones 31
I/C: Z.Langdon 7 S.Petrevski-Seton 10 B.Hough 19 X.O’Neill 24 T.Joyce 26 C.West 36 P.Naish 38 C.Jamieson 40
EMG: I.Winder 22 J.Williams 34 J.Waterman 2 L.Edwards 16
Team Tips: West Coast is missing a long list of players from its best 22 including Dom Sheed, Jamie Cripps, Jack Darling, Oscar Allen, Elliot Yeo, Luke Shuey and Jack Darling. Unfortunately, only Shuey and Duggan are in the mix to play Round 1, while Alex Witherden copped a one-match ban to to add to their woes. Brady Hough put his hand up to debut in the season opener against Gold Coast after a solid showing across half back against Fremantle, while rookie signing Hugh Dixon was well held. Patrick Naish impressedwith 14 disposals in the second half, but is still vying for a rookie spot altogether. Recruit Sam Petrevski-Seton is also likely to line-up Round 1 despite a quiet outing against Freo. Meanwhile, Willie Rioli is set to play his first AFL game since 2019.
Suns’ AAMI Community Series team
B: W.Powell 27 S.Collins 25 S.Lemmens 23
HB: C.Graham 46 C.Ballard 10 L.Weller 14
C: B.Ellis 4 N.Anderson 15 R.Atkins 2
HF: B.Ainsworth 9 L.Casboult 30 J.Lukosius 13
F: N.Holman 7 M.Chol 1 I.Rankine 22
FOLL: J.Witts 28 T.Miller 11 M.Rowell 18
I/C: A.Davies 5 B.Fiorini 8 S.Flanders 26 D.Macpherson 44 N.Moyle 49 D.Swallow 24 A.Sexton 6 R.Thompson 16
EMG: C.Burgess 29 J.Corbett 19 J.Jeffrey 40 O.Markov 17
Team Tips: Skipper Jarrod Witts was thought to be touch and go for Round 1 in his recovery from an ACL injury, so playing in the club’s AAMI Community Series clash against Geelong is a huge boost. With Ben King (ACL) and Sam Day (wrist) sidelined, recruits Levi Casboult and Mabior Chol have been left to spearhead the forward line, although the latter hurt his hamstring against the Cats and is now in doubt for Round 1. Elsewhere, Charlie Constable (adductor) and Jack Bowes (shoulder) will miss the start of the season, while Elijah Hollands wasn’t named for their final pre-season hitout, so too Pick 5 Mac Andrew, who appears a way off making his debut. Matt Rowell will hope to finally get a good run at it after his first seasons in the league have been cruelled by injury.