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The SuperCoach Investor’s trade tips for Round 11

GWS stars Jeremy Cameron, Josh Kelly and Lachie Whitfield face Gold Coast this week. And that’s not even the best reason to trade them into your SuperCoach team. BYE TRADE TIPS

Dan Begala, Herald Sun

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HERALDSUN11:42

Top SuperCoach mid-season draft prospects

Al Paton and Tim Michell rate the SuperCoach potential of every mid-season draftee

If you’ve managed to dodge the carnage, injuries and selection dilemmas so far this season — well done. But it could be about to come to a screeching halt.

It’s time to dust off that trade button, throw caution to the wind and exercise those carefully planned strategies across the byes.

The SuperCoach Investor, Daniel Begala, shares his final thoughts on the best way to tackle the rollercoaster of emotions that is the bye rounds (Rounds 12-14).

“P” IS FOR PREPARATION

We’re about to embark on the most challenging period of the SuperCoach season, I’m not going to lie.

It’s going to test you, it always does.

Some dedicated SuperCoaches have fastidiously prepared for the byes. They’ve dotted their “I’s”, crossed their “T’s” and filled out their Excel spreadsheets.

But if you’ve had your head in the sand most of the season, don’t despair, as you’ll be equipped with an additional three trades each round across the byes.

Use them wisely, but don’t be afraid to use them frivolously as you should be launching from the byes with a team close to full premium, if not complete with superstars in every on-field position.

My team, The Begala Brigade, is looking severely depleted in Round 13 so every trade I perform from here on in must be made with a mind to boosting my playing stocks that week as I have zero tolerance for doughnuts.

ROUND 12

Most teams, including mine, will be well stocked with players available in Round 12.

That being said, it’s integral that you use Round 12 (and 11) to fill your side with players to cover the round where you perceive yourself weakest.

I will initially be focusing my attention on acquiring the fallen premiums and rookies from teams that boast the Round 14 bye — Adelaide, Carlton, GWS, Gold Coast, North Melbourne and Richmond.

Atop my wish list are Jeremy Cameron ($469K, break even 74), Bachar Houli ($504K, BE 56), Josh Kelly ($646K, BE 105) and Rory Sloane ($584K, BE 83), who will provide coverage across Rounds 12 and 13, where I foresee my greatest vulnerability.

It’s the perfect time to trade in GWS stars like Jeremy Cameron.

He hasn’t been mentioned above, but the most popular trade target this week must be Lachie Whitfield if you’re in the market for a gun defender.

The Giants running machine has bottomed out at $556K and shapes as the perfect upgrade candidate for Jack Scrimshaw, who is expected to spend an extended period of time on the sidelines.

I’ve focused on Round 14 trade targets as it guarantees three key things:

SCORING protection at my weakest bye (Round 13);

CONTINUED premium scoring across Rounds 11, 12 and 13; and

CONFIDENCE that I will be able to trade myself to a full squad by Round 14 using the generous gift that is additional trades (three per week).

ROUND 13

This is where it’s expected to be tricky.

We’ll be operating on the smell of an oily rag, buy hey; at least we’ll have trades.

Your focus this week should on acquiring any rookies or targeted premiums that have already served their byes in Round 12. Here’s how:

Step 1: Log into SuperCoach.

Step 2: Filter all players.

Step 3: Sort by average.

Step 4: Select ESS, FRE, HAW, PORT, STK, WBD.

Voila, it’s a simple as that!

There you will find a list of refreshed and recharged stars chomping at the bit to join your side including Marcus Bontempelli, Jack Macrae, Nat Fyfe, Travis Boak, Luke Ryan and Zach Merrett – to name a few.

Zach Merrett will be a top trade target after Essendon’s Round 12 bye.

He’s not exactly a household name yet, but rookie Brett Bewley could be another trade target for Round 13, as he’ll create some much-needed liquidity.

ROUND 14

The finish line is in sight, but it’s time for one last sprint.

You’ll need to pull the trigger on three trades and hopefully finalise the SuperCoach masterpiece that will guide you towards the rankings and league promised land.

It’s not rocket science, but you’ll need to pivot your attention to any stars and rookies that have served their byes across Rounds 12 and 13.

EXPERT ADVICE: NINE TIPS TO BEAT THE BYES

WHISPERS: WHAT’S WRONG WITH MARTY HORE?

THE PHANTOM: THIS WEEK’S TOP CAPTAIN PICKS

RECRUITS: MID-SEASON DRAFT SUPERCOACH PRICES

WHAT THE? SURPRISING SUPERCOACH POPULARITY STATS

Lachie Neale is the final piece of my midfield puzzle and he’ll be ripe for the picking at Round 14 – FINALLY – with his price estimated to be a smidgen below $600K.

So if you’re among the 60 per cent of non-Neale owners, it’s integral that you keep the door ajar at M8 and reserve a spot for the scoring juggernaut that is lil’ Lachie.

Round 14 will also serve as the perfect time to pick up the likes of Shannon Hurn, who has rocketed to the top of the defensive rankings following a string of monster performances.

If you play your cards right, your side should be filled with 22 absolute stars once play resumes on the regular game play in Round 15.

Trade hard. Trade well. All the best!
 
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Surprising SuperCoach ownership stats

Patrick Dangerfield has taken over as the most popular pick in SuperCoach, but why is Tom Mitchell in almost 800 teams? See the most traded in and out players this year and more head-scratching numbers.

Al Paton, Herald Sun

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May 30, 2019 11:23am

HERALDSUN11:42

Top SuperCoach mid-season draft prospects

Al Paton and Tim Michell rate the SuperCoach potential of every mid-season draftee

Move over Sam Walsh, Patrick Cripps has reclaimed his SuperCoach crown.

It took nine rounds but Dangerfield has overtaken Walsh as the most popular player in SuperCoach.

Walsh has slipped to third, overtaken by Carlton teammate Patrick Cripps.

The No.1 draft pick was in more SuperCoach teams than any other player leading into Round 1 and climbed from 137,000 selections to 141,000 two weeks ago, but he has been traded out by 20,000 players in the past two weeks.

But that’s nothing compared to some of the massive ownership moves this season so far, headed by Port Adelaide rookie Willem Drew, who has been abandoned by a competition-high 71,692 players since Round 1 — more than 30,000 of them in a single round.

In contrast, there is a lot of SuperCoach love for Brisbane defender Noah Answerth. He has been traded in to almost 85,000 teams since making his Lions debut in Round 6.

Here are 11 other surprising selection SuperCoach selection stats:

DUSTIN Martin was picked in 60,000 teams in Round 1, but by Round 4 he was in just 18,500. Has slowly crept back up to 21,000 as he looks to have recaptured his best. Now available for $51,200 under his starting price, can he get all the way back to 60k?

MARTY Hore could be the rookie of the season, rising in value by almost $280,000 and averaging a very healthy 87 points in the backline. He was selected in 92,000 teams in Round 1 and despite missing the next two weeks, he was dropped by only 9000 teams. He’s now in almost 100,000 teams.

Patrick Dangerfield is oin more SuperCoach teams than any other player.

BEFORE Round 1 all the talk was over whether we could afford to splash the cash on the two most-expensive ruckmen, Brodie Grundy and Max Gawn. It has turned out to be the right call, with Grundy (130 average) and Gawn (124) well ahead of the next-best ruckman, Todd Goldstein (103). Grundy started in 93,000 teams and is now in 109,000. Gawn started in 94,000 sides and is now in 101,000. The next most popular ruck is Bulldog Jordan Sweet, who is on 24,480 ruck benches. The next most popular playing ruckman is Fremantle ruck/forward Rory Lobb (10,979 teams).

BAILEY Scott is still in 77,000 teams despite not playing since Round 5. His ownership hit a

high of 104,000 in Round 3.

ISAAC Heeney was traded out of 23,000 teams after Round 2 then scored 137 and 130 in the next two matches.

TOM Liberatore has been a SuperCoach rollercoaster in 2019. He started in 66,000 teams, his ownership rose to 90,000 in Round 6 when he was averaging 111, and has since dropped to 56,000.

TRAVIS Boak has scored more points than any other forward this season, but started in just 4000 teams. His ownership jumped to 18,500 before Round 3 and now sits at 53,000.

SHANNON Hurn is the top-scoring defender but remains in just 36,000 teams (18 per cent). Just over 17,000 coaches were astute enough to start with him.

Trade or hold Tom Liberatore? It’s a tough all every week. Picture: Michael Klein.Willem Drew has fallen out of favour with SuperCoaches. Picture: Sarah Reed

THE two least-selected players (not counting recently added mid-season draft selections) are

Fremantle’s Shane Kersten and Geelong forward Lachie Fogarty, who are both in 51 teams. Neither have played a game this season. Docker Brennan Cox is in just 70 teams but has played four matches for a 65 average. There’s also no love for North Melbourne veteran Scott Thompson. He has played eight matches for a perfectly respectable average of 75 but is in just 196 teams.

RECRUITS: MID-SEASON DRAFT SUPERCOACH PRICES

WHISPERS: WHAT’S WRONG WITH MARTY HORE?

THE PHANTOM: ROUND 11 CAPTAIN PICKS

DON’T PANIC: FIVE STRATEGIES FOR BYE SUCCESS

CHARLIE Dixon is sitting on the bench of 127 teams using $425,300 and hasn’t played a game.

LAST year’s 10 most-selected players at Round 1 were Max Gawn, Nat Fyfe, Tom Doedee, Dustin Martin, Rory Laird, Tim Kelly, Sam Murray, Tom Mitchell, Isaac Heeney and Dom Barry. Doedee started in 2300 teams this year but was traded out of all but 476 after suffering a season-ending knee injury in Round 1. Sam Murray is 109 teams and it seems 798 SuperCoach players aren’t paying attention — they all spent $700,800 on Tom Mitchell and still have the sidelined Brownlow medallist in their squad.

The most popular pick at Round 1 in 2017 was Sam Powell-Pepper, while Sam Kerridge was in more 2016 starting squads teams than any other player.

Most traded in players 2019

PlayerTrades1. Noah Answerth (Bris)84,8442. Tim Kelly (Geel)64,3153. Sydney Stack (Rich)51,5384. Robert Young (StK)46,9655. Travis Boak (Port)46,9656. Lachie Neale (Bris)42,9908. Liam Baker (Rich)42,7559. Tom Rockliff (Port)41,51710. Jack Ross (Rich)37,266

Most traded out players 2019

PlayerTrades1. Willem Drew (Port)71,6922. Zak Butters (Port)57,5213. Charlie Constable (Geel)56,9094. Sam Collins (GC)51,3005. Matty Parker (StK)48,6196. Will Setterfield (Carl)46,8418. Dustin Martin (Rich)44,1859. Jack Scrimshaw (Haw)43,87110. Michael Gibbons (Carl)41,305

Most traded in players 2019 (single round)

PlayerRoundTrades1. Noah Answerth (Bris)855,8892. Robert Young (StK)1043,2713. Liam Baker (Rich)631,0914. Will Hayes (WB)730,4565. Sydney Stack (Rich)528,3466. Liam Stocker (Carl)924,8408. Noah Answerth (Bris)724,0529. Jack Ross (Rich)621,52710. Tom Rockliff (Port)320,425

Most traded out players 2019 (single round)

PlayerRoundTrades1. Willem Drew (Port)1032,2722. Willem Drew (Port)924,8243. Jack Scrimshaw (Haw)724,1854. Isaac Heeney (Syd)322,4745. Dustin Martin (Rich)421,5596. Zak Butters (Port)520,7308. Dustin Martin (Rich)320,6319. Darcy Moore (Coll)1020,44410. Will Setterfield (Carl)519,250
 
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The Phantom’s in-depth analysis of all the Round 11 captain and vice-captain options

A Saturday afternoon clash makes placing your Round 11 VC and C selections tricky. Fortunately, The Phantom is here to help. Recap Wednesday’s chat here.

The Phantom, The Advertiser

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May 29, 2019 2:09pm

HERALDSUN6:26

AFL Round 11 preview

Mark Bickley and Chris McDermott discuss AFL round 11.

The byes are coming and Boak is your first targetSuperCoach whispers: Will Rocky be rested?Mid-season draft SuperCoach prices revealed

Brodie Grundy against the Dockers at the MCG into a red-hot Lachie Whitfield or Josh Kelly against the Suns at home.

Perfect.

Well, it would be if both games didn’t start at the same time on Saturday afternoon.

So who should get the VC armband in Round 11?

RECAP THE PHANTOM’S WEEKLY CHAT IN THE COMMENTS SECTION BELOW

VC OPTIONS

Brodie Grundy (Coll)

V Fremante, Saturday

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It really is hard to go past the Collingwood big man at the MCG. Grundy, who has posted scores of 141, 144 and 165 in the past three rounds, is averaging 133 points at the MCG this season – and that includes the 81-point performance in Round 1. While he’s been great in the absence of Aaron Sandilands and Sean Darcy, Rory Lobb went home to Fremantle to play as a forward. Expect Grundy to have another field day.

Lachie Whitfield (GWS)

V Gold Coast, Saturday

Grundy is the safe bet, sure but if a player were to post a double SuperCoach ton this season, it might be Whitfield or Kelly against the Suns.

Whitfield tallied 40 disposals, 18 marks, two goals and 170 points against the Blues two weeks ago and broke through a Corey Wagner-tag to record another 29 disposals and two goals against the Demons. The Gold Coast give up more SuperCoach points to opposition midfielders than any other team this season and if Whitfield runs around by himself again on Saturday, look out.

Josh Kelly (GWS)

V Gold Coast, Saturday

Josh Kelly during a Giants training session at WestConnex Centre. Picture: Matt King/Getty Images

Speaking of SuperCoach double tons, Kelly posted one against the Blues last season and, after an interrupted start to the season, could still be building into his best form. Which is a scary thought for non-owners, given the classy Giant’s three-round average of 144, on the back of scores of 154, 131 and 148, is second-only to Grundy in the competition.

The Verdict: As I mentioned, Grundy is the sure-thing but Whitfield and Kelly might explode this weekend. The Phantom is leaning towards taking the risk on Whitfield.

CAPTAIN OPTIONS

Lachie Neale (Bris)

V Hawthorn, Saturday night

After a season-low 79 points against the Dockers in Perth, he’s been overtaken by Grundy as the top-scorer in the game. But the Lions are back at the GABBA and Neale is averaging 130 points per game at his new home in 2019.

Max Gawn (Melb)

V Adelaide, Saturday night

Melbourne’s Max Gawn, centre, training at Goschs Paddock in Melbourne. Picture: Alex Coppel

The pick of the captain options this weekend, even if Crow Sam Jacobs makes a surprise return to the senior side.

Reilly O’Brien has done a terrific job stepping up in Jacobs’ absence but his tap-work has been exposed at times this year. And there’s no better tap ruckman in the competition than Gawn, who should dominate in the ruck again, as he has done in the past two weeks with scores of 144 and 149 against the Eagles and Giants. The third-ranked scorer in the game posted scores of 130 and 114 in his two meetings with the Crows last season.

Patrick Cripps (Carl)

V Essendon, Sunday

The Carlton skipper continues to carry his side on his back in search of another victory and he’ll be doing the same against the Bombers at the MCG on Sunday. Cripps posted a SuperCoach ton in the corresponding fixture last season.

THE PHANTOM’S CALL

At this stage, I’ll be taking the punt and going Whitfield as VC, over Grundy, into Gawn as captain.

BY THE NUMBERS

Brodie Grundy (Coll) Ruck 128

Mitch Duncan (Geel) Mid 125

Adam Treloar (Coll) Mid 118

Tom Rockliff (Port) Mid 119

Patrick Cripps (Carl) Mid 117

Dayne Zorko (Bris) Mid 113

Patrick Dangerfield (Geel) Fwd/Mid 111

Lachie Neale (Bris) Mid 109

Josh Kelly (GWS) Mid 107

Dustin Martin (Rich) Mid 101

Originally published as The Phantom’s Round 11 captain picks
 
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From Adelaide Advertiser

The damning numbers that don’t paint a pretty picture for Port Adelaide

The numbers don’t lie for Port Adelaide, which generates the most inside-50s in the league but struggles to hit the scoreboard - and its season is at tipping point as a result.

Andrew Capel, The Advertiser

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June 1, 2019 4:40pm

ADELAIDENOW6:26

AFL Round 11 preview

Mark Bickley and Chris McDermott discuss AFL round 11.

The stinging review that has fired up PowerNo holiday for Port: Victory in China takes power of planningNo worry for Saint over unlucky number

These are the damning numbers that highlight why early season surprise packet Port Adelaide is struggling to hit the scoreboard and has lost its spot in the top eight.

After 10 rounds, the Power has impressively averaged a competition-high 60.1 inside 50s.

But its inability to turn territory advantage into goals is killing it.

After starting the season with four wins from its first six matches, Port has won just one of its past four.

And while injuries to key players have played a big part in its slump, so has its lack of connection going inside 50 and its errant goalkicking.

Coach Ken Hinkley’s side has no problem getting the ball inside its forward 50m arc but it is not making its attacking dominance count.

With key forward target Charlie Dixon still sidelined from a gruesome leg injury suffered last year — he could return after Port's bye — the Power ranks an alarming 16th for goals per inside 50 and rock-bottom for goalkicking accuracy.

It is goaling from just 19.1 per cent of its forward 50 thrusts — three per cent below the competition average and 10 per cent behind high-flying Geelong.

First-year player Connor Rozee is Port Adelaide’s leading goalkicker this year with 14 goals from 10 games. Picture: Chris Hyde/Getty Images

When it comes to goalkicking, the Power hasn’t been able to hit the side of a barn.

It is shooting at an awful 41.4 per cent accuracy — 4.4 per cent below the competition average.

In contrast, the Cats are goaling with 53.2 per cent of their shots.

Port's leading goalkicker is exciting first-year player Connor Rozee, with just 14.

Only Melbourne has a leading goalkicker who has kicked fewer majors this year — Jayden Hunt with 12.

Of the Power’s 10 players to have had a minimum of 10 shots at goal, only three are shooting above the AFL average of 45.8 per cent — small forward Sam Gray (54.5), midfielder-turned-forward Brad Ebert (52.6), who is sidelined with concussion, and utility Rozee (51.9).

Overall, Port has booted 115.125 to its opponents 117.89.

That’s 34 more scoring shots for two less goals.

The Power has not managed more than 14 goals in any game this year and in the past

month has kicked 10 majors against Collingwood, nine against Adelaide, 13 against Gold Coast and six against Hawthorn at a paltry average of 9.5.

Midfielder Sam Powell-Pepper has kicked eight goals in 10 games this season. Picture: AAP

It went goalless in the first quarter against the Magpies, Crows and Hawks, scoring a combined 0.5, including going scoreless against Hawthorn in Tasmania and prompting co-captain Tom Jonas to declare the club had held a “Royal Commission’’ into its dismal first quarters.

“We need to work out what’s going on there,’’ he said.

Club great Warren Tredrea said Port had struggled to find the right formula without the powerful Dixon at the goalfront.

“This has to fall back on Ken Hinkley and the coaching department,’’ Tredrea told FIVEaa.

“Why are we seeing this? Give them an out — their best forward’s not there so their structure falls apart.

“They’re trying (Justin) Westhoff, who is out of form in that position and has never been a stay at home forward, so I don’t know why they’re continuing to play him there.

“They’ve tried (Todd) Marshall, they’ve tried the new young kids in the forward line, (Billy) Frampton, (Peter) Ladhams, keep going.

Port Adelaide forward Justin Westhoff has kicked just seven goals in 10 games this season. Picture: AAP Image/Dave Hunt

“When you’ve got Rozee leading your goalkicking followed by Sam Gray and Ebert, it’s telling you something with your forward set-up.

“It’s seriously failing at the moment.”

Assistant and forwards coach Nathan Bassett, who noted the Power had to hit more targets in attack, described his forward line as “a work in progress’’.

“Particularly on the weekend (against Hawthorn),’’ he said.

“It’s was particularly young and at times there’s been five guys in there with 10 games or less of AFL experience.

“We’re trying to help them develop as players the best we can and give them every opportunity to be good players.

“There’s enough talent there, it’s more around experience, working together and trusting their game.’’
 
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The Phantom’s Round 11 Review: The first bye week is upon us SuperCoaches and it’s time to get prepared

There were plenty of positives in Round 11 but the fun is over. The first week of the bye round period is upon us. In this week’s SuperCoach review, The Phantom details his three-week trade plan.

The Phantom, The Advertiser

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June 2, 2019 8:26pm

FOXSPORTS0:58

Sicily whacks Lions opponent

AFL: Hawthorn defender James Sicily is facing a possible suspension after this incident against...

Stephen Coniglio posted the first SuperCoach double ton of the season, Nat Fyfe posted his seventh score of 100 or more on-the-trot, Lachie Neale’s price fell again, Max Gawn went big against the Crows, Clayton Oliver responded with 122 points and Luke Parker scored 130 or more for the third consecutive week.

That’s enough of the positive

Crow Rory Sloane finished with 35 SuperCoach points against the Demons after leaving the ground with a hamstring injury. Picture SARAH REED

And if you thought injury-affected scores of Rory Sloane (35) and Lachie Whitfield (65), Marty Hore’s late withdrawal, Shannon Hurn’s extended ‘rest’ on the bench and Patrick Cripps’ 11 disposals was the negative, brace yourself.

The bye rounds are here.

But while it may spell disaster for many SuperCoach teams across the country, it’s also a great chance for those who have planned well to make their move.

You’ll get three extra trades over the next three rounds so use them wisely, SuperCoaches.

Planning is the key.

Your team will be different but here is The Phantom’s bye-round trading plan.

ROUND 12

OUT: Jay Lockhart (Def, Mid $269,500)

IN: Ryan Gardner (Fwd/Def $102,400)

BANK: $258,400

PLAYERS AVAILABLE: 20*

Ahead of the first of the three bye rounds, the plan is to make one downgrade to continue to build the bank. It’s early on mid-season draft pick Gardner, given the Bulldogs have the bye and he’s only played one game but immediate selection and a score of 40 on debut, gives me some confidence. And I need the six trades in the following two weeks. Lockhart is no certainty to return after missing the clash with the Crows through injury.

James Sicily is cheap and coming off a SuperCoach ton but will he be suspended?ROUND 13

OUT: Bailey Scott (Mid $172,800), Marty Hore (Def $410,000), Sam Walsh (Mid $425,500)

IN: Nat Fyfe (Mid $605,000), James Sicily (Def $495,000), Brett Bewley (Mid $117,300)

BANK: $77,900

PLAYERS AVAILABLE: 20*

Like many teams, the Round 13 bye will be the toughest to navigate. But, if all goes well, I’ll have another full team with the inclusion of premiums Nat Fyfe and James Sicily after their week off.

Marty Hore has been great — and his scoring doesn’t suggest trading — but it’s the perfect time to trade him to James Sicily — if he’s not suspended — ahead of the Demon’s bye.

It’s also one week early on Sam Walsh but I don’t want to let Nat Fyfe’s price rise any further. And a playing midfield in Round 13 allows me to do so.

I already have the top-ranked forward in the competition Travis Boak but if you don’t, this is the week to bring him in. After a score of 131 in China, he’s not going to be available for less than $550k for long after the Power’s bye.

Bulldog Caleb Daniel, who scored 122 point against the Eagles, will also be great buying after his side’s week off in Round 12.

Lachie Neale could be available for less than his starting price after Brisbane’s Round 13 bye.ROUND 14

OUT: Michael Gibbons (Mid $260,000), Liam Stocker (Mid $225,000), Noah Answerth (Mid $250,000)

IN: Lachie Neale (Mid $595,000), Two rookie-price players.

BANK: Not much.

PLAYERS AVAILABLE: 20*

The plan in the final week of the bye period will be to bring in an underpriced Lachie Neale, who is likely to be available for less than his starting price after the Lions’ Round 13 bye. With a Round 12 breakeven in excess of 160, a score of 140 or less will see Neale’s price fall to less than $600k. But Brisbane do play Carlton so I’ll need to have my fingers crossed.

The trade will be Gibbons to Neale, who should hold his price after another 60-point performance against the Bombers.

To make the move, I will need to make another two downgrades. And while I’ve got two great options in Answerth and Stocker to trade out, the big question will be who comes in?

Will Mitch Hinge will get another opportunity or will a mid-season draft selection get a game?

SuperCoaches — The Phantom, especially — need one of the answers to be yes.

That will leave me with 10 trades and an almost-complete team.

Nic Newman and Brodie Smith will still be at D6 and D7 but they are both averaging more than 88 points per game.

Brad Crouch and Tom Liberatore and will also be occupying the final two on-field spots in the midfield but they, too, are fine for the moment, averaging 98 and 93 respectively.

All going well, I’ll use three or four trades to push one of those players on each line to the bench for the run home.

But, of course, all never goes well in SuperCoach.

*Assuming no further injuries and the rookie-price players keeping their spots. Ha. Yeah, right, Phantom, Robbie Young recorded his second score of less than 34 in the past two weeks.

THE PHANTOM ROUND 11

Score: 2267

Studs: Max Gawn (158) as captain, Travis Boak (131), Brad Crouch (127), Jake Lloyd (123), Caleb Daniel (122), Josh Dunkley (119).

Duds: Tim Taranto (71), Nic Newman (70), Sam Walsh (67)
 
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The Barometer: Injury news and selection analysis from every club after Round 11

Mystery surrounded West Coast’s decision to put skipper Shannon Hurn on ice during their win over the Western Bulldogs. Plus injury news on Lachie Whitfield, Jordan De Goey and more.

James Mottershead and Staff writers, Herald Sun

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June 3, 2019 7:51am

FOXSPORTS0:30

Hawkins in hot water

AFL: Geelong could be in danger of losing yet another senior player for striking, after Tom Haw...

West Coast skipper Shannon Hurn sat out the final quarter in his team’s win over Western Bulldogs with hamstring, putting him in doubt for next week’s game against Sydney.

Eagles coach Adam Simpson said Hurn finished the match on the bench as a precaution but was unsure if he would be available to take on the Swans,

“We just took the precaution and didn’t play him in the last quarter,” Simpson said.

“We’ll see how we go. I think it’s in the lower end.”

THE TACKLE: ROBBO’S ROUND 11 LIKES AND DISLIKES

BEST ON GROUND: VOTE FOR YOUR BEST PLAYERS

SCROLL DOWN FOR INJURY NEWS FROM EVERY CLUB

MAY PRIMED TO RETURN

Steven May is set for a Queen’s Birthday return against Collingwood after starring for Casey in Saturday’s VFL loss against Werribee.

The key defender was stationed as the Dees’ deepest defender for much of the contest at Avalon Airport Oval, but his rebound from defence would have Melbourne fans excited.

May, 27, finished with 22 disposals and nine marks, several of which were important intercepts.

“I’ve been tired of running laps at Gosch’s Paddock, so the opportunity to play footy this weekend was great,” May told the Herald Sun.

“It’s been a long time, even when I did play in Round 2 I only played a quarter and a half so I hadn’t really played footy for a long time.”

Steven May directs traffic in the VFL for Casey Demons. Picture: Michael Klein.

The former Gold Coast Sun said he “felt like a kid in a candy store” going for high balls and using his offensive weapons.

“Previously I’ve been a lockdown defender or interceptor, but Simon Goodwin and Troy Chaplin at the Dees emphasise everyone is in attack mode,” May said

“They wanted me to start making a few more runs and get a few more handball receives and get the ball in my hands a bit more.”

RECOVERY: INSIDE SAINT’S AMAZING COMEBACK

VIDEO: INJURIES HIT THREE PORT COACHES

YOUR SAY: IS HAWKINS IN STRIFE FOR THIS HIT?

The 193cm defender said he was going to play 80 minutes but ended up getting through 90 and will put his hand up for an AFL return this week.

“I tried to stay out there even when the runner came to get me off,” May said.

“Now it’s either if I played well enough to put my hand up to play next week (in the AFL) or if they want me to play a full game in the VFL.

“I’ll be there knocking on the door to play of course, I want to play.

“I had a pretty tough start to the Dees, so I just want to get back out there and start repaying the faith they’ve shown in me.”

INJURY NEWS FROM EVERY CLUB

ADELAIDE

Another intriguing week coming up at selection at Adelaide with ruckman Sam Jacobs returning from injury with five goals in the SANFL on the weekend. Will coach Don Pyke make a straight swap for Reilly O’Brien or consider playing two ruckmen against GWS? The other one putting pressure on for a game is Richard Douglas who had 31 touches in his second game back from an ankle injury in the SANFL. Kyle Hartigan was a late out from the game in Darwin for team balance with Adelaide opting to go with David Mackay, but when the Dees countered that by including Sam Weideman for Christian Salem, it looked like the wrong call. Either way expect Hartigan to come in for the Giants talls in Himmelberg, Cameron and Finlayson this week.

— Reece Homfray

INJURIES

Rory Sloane (hamstring) test

Matt Crouch (hip/abdominal) test

Tom Doedee (knee) season

Rory Sloane’s night ended early. Pic: AFL PhotosBRISBANE LIONS

The Lions are coming off their best performance of the season against Hawthorn and emerged from the 19-point win relatively unscathed. Charlie Cameron and Lachie Neale both suffered knocks but ran the game out.

The Lions were very efficient turning forward-50 entries into shots on goals, even if their accuracy was poor, but they still look better when Oscar McInerny is in the team. He missed for a personal reason but is available to take on the Blues and should come straight back in.

Stef Martin is the incumbent but once again Archie Smith gave the coaches something to think about when he got his first opportunity of the year. Josh Walker responded to his axing by being a standout at NEAFL level but it would not surprise if reality TV star-come footballer Matt Eagles gets another chance soon. Jacob Allison also continues to shine at the second tier while draftees Tom Berry and Tom Joyce are developing nicely.

— Andrew Hamilton

INJURIES

Marcus Adams (knee) 3 weeks

Zac Bailey (hamstring) test

Jarrod Berry (knee) 6-8 weeks

Ely Smith (foot) 5 weeks

CARLTON

The tone in Brendon Bolton’s voice said it all. The Carlton boss was still a bit prickly when asked if Dale Thomas would be immediately recalled for Saturday’s clash against Brisbane at Marvel Stadium.

Thomas had 32 possessions in the VFL after he was dumped for drinking alcohol two nights before their last match the previous round. But Bolton said Thomas “had to respond” and had “let down” the club and was no guarantee to play the Lions.

Carlton desperately needs a win to help save Bolton’s skin after another disappointing day on Sunday, kicking only four goals against Essendon. They were poor in the forward half but could welcome back Mitch McGovern from an ankle injury this weekend.

- Jay Clark

INJURIES

Tom De Koning (knee) 1-2 weeks

Sam Docherty (knee) indefinite

Liam Jones (concussion) TBC

Mitch McGovern (ankle) test

Marc Murphy (fractured ribs) 1-2 weeks

Jarrod Pickett (knee) indefinite

Tom Williamson (back) 3 weeks

Dale Thomas (club suspension) available

Dale Thomas attacks the footy in the VFL.COLLINGWOOD

Collingwood is in the midst of a nine-day break as it looks to get back on the winners’ board on Queen’s Birthday Monday, having had a seven-match winning streak snapped by Fremantle.

The Magpies were outgunned by the Dockers in a four-point loss at the MCG, coach Nathan Buckley left to rue his side’s lack of energy, dare and aggression as it was flat around the contest.

Buckley said after the Dockers game that ruckman Brodie Grundy, who is battling a niggling ankle complaint, “seems okay” and noted the star played out the game.

Fellow big man Mason Cox (ankle) missed the clash but is expected to be available for selection against Melbourne.

Collingwood has won its past two matches against the Demons, most recently by 42 points in the corresponding fixture last year.

Jordan de Goey finished Collingwood’s game on the ground despite extensive treatment for a lingering calf issue.

The Pies match-winner played only 15 minutes in the last term — off at the six minute mark and back on at the 20 minute mark — as he kicked three goals.

He injured his shin and calf after Levi Casboult fell on him as he soccered the sealing goal against Carlton in Round 8.

— Chris Cavanagh, Jon Ralph

INJURIES

Taylor Adams (groin) 2-3 weeks

Flynn Appleby (ankle) test

Mason Cox (ankle) test

Lynden Dunn (knee) season

Jamie Elliott (hamstring) 2-3 weeks

Will Kelly (leg) 6-10 weeks

Tom Langdon (knee) 4-5 weeks

Nathan Murphy (ankle) indefinite

Sam Murray (provisional suspension) TBC

Daniel Wells (knee) 13 weeks
 
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ESSENDON

Essendon will confront the toughest stretch of its run home to the finals straight after the upcoming bye. After a few days off this week, the Bombers tackle Hawthorn, as well as top-four aspirants West Coast and GWS, in a crucial three-week stretch.

Currently 5-6, the Bombers would love to win two of the next three to be 7-7 before taking on Sydney, North Melbourne, Adelaide and St Kilda. The good news is the Bombers could welcome back Jake Stringer and Dylan Shiel from hamstring injuries and Orazio Fantasia from a quad problem for the Hawks clash. Dyson Heppell, Cale Hooker and Michael Hurley were outstanding in the win over Carlton yesterday.

- Jay Clark

INJURIES

Jake Stringer (hamstring) 1-2 weeks

Dylan Shiel (hamstring) TBC

Mitch Brown (wrist) test

Joe Daniher (groin) season

Sam Draper (knee) season

Orazio Fantasia (quad) 1-2 weeks

Kobe Mutch (hamstring) 3-5 weeks

Devon Smith (knee) season

James Stewart (groin) 1-2 weeks

FREMANTLE

Gutsy effort from the Dockers to stare down the Pies and come out on top. Sure, one or two things definitely went the visitors’ way but you need some luck if you’re to beat Collingwood at the ’G. Suddenly, Ross Lyon’s team looks very well placed to feature in September.

An ankle injury to Alex Pearce, suffered in innocuous circumstances on Saturday, is a blow and scans will determine if the key defender misses any footy. Encouragingly, the injury is on the other leg to the one which Pearce has previously suffered two breaks. After the match Lyon hinted Griffin Logue, who has not played at AFL level since 2017, could replace Pearce should he not be fit for the Dockers’ home clash with Port Adelaide in Round 13.

“We’ve got Griffin Logue. He may come up Alex yet, we don’t know,” Lyon said after the Pies win.

— Ben Broad

INJURIES

Alex Pearce (ankle) TBC

Sean Darcy (ankle) test

Hugh Dixon (hamstring) 2 weeks

Stephen Hill (quad) 2 weeks

Shane Kersten (foot) TBC

Aaron Sandilands (calf) TBC

Sam Sturt (concussion) 1-2 weeks

Matt Taberner (foot) season

Luke Valente (groin) 3 weeks

Lachie Fogarty in action for Geelong’s VFL side.GEELONG

Ruckman Rhys Stanley is the only worry for the Cats. The big man is enjoying the best season of his career but in recent weeks the injury curse which has plagued him in his early days has reared again.

Stanley missed two weeks ago with an abductor strain but returned to play in the Cats victory over the Gold Coast Suns.

However, he was again a late withdrawal on Saturday against Sydney with another abductor problem, although coach Chris Scott suggested it was different to the previous issue.

Some of the urgency about the Stanley situation was alleviated by the performance of his replacement Zac Smith.

Smith came in for his first game in more than 12 months and was one of the Cats’ best, having 33 hitouts and totally outplaying Sydney’s Callum Sinclair.

There are a number of players pushing for inclusion against Richmond on Friday night, with Lachlan Fogarty at the head of the line.

The talented small forward missed the start of the season because of injury but his past month in the VFL has been very good and he looms as the most likely in if Scott decides changes are required from the combination who were too strong for Sydney.

— Scott Gullan

INJURES

Rhys Stanley (adductor) TBC

Nakia Cockatoo (knee) indefinite

Charlie Constable (groin) TBC **VFL play Sunday

Jordan Cunico (ankle) 6-8 weeks

Lachie Henderson (plantar fascia) 1-2 weeks

Ben Jarvis (groin/calf) 1-2 weeks

Sam Menegola (knee) 3-4 weeks

Quinton Narkle (hamstring) TBC

Stefan Okunbor (groin) 1-2 weeks

GOLD COAST

It was a gallant effort to half time before the Giants ran away with the contest, piling on 13 goals to two in the second half.

The 83-point drubbing was compounded by an injury to youngster Jack Bowes, who did his quad in the second quarter and took no further part in the match.

There could be wholesale changes ahead of their clash with the Roos, with half of the Suns side collecting 10 disposals or less.

Goalsneak Alex Sexton (five disposals and a goal) had a forgettable day at the office, while inclusions George Horlin-Smith (8 touches) and Josh Schoenfeld (10 possessions) are likely to come under scrutiny at selection.

It wasn’t much better in the twos for Gold Coast, going down by 43-points in the curtain raiser. Will Brodie led the way with 26 possessions, 11 clearances and a goal, and would be the ideal replacement for Bowes.

Forgotten forward Sam Day booted two majors as he edges closer to a return to the senior side.

Touk Miller (heel) remains a week by week proposition and will return if fit.

-Dan Batten

INJURES

Touk Miller (heel) Test
Jack Bowes (quad) Test
Pearce Hanley (quad) TBC

Izak Rankine (hamstring) 1-2 weeks

Aaron Young (knee) 2 weeks
Brad Scheer (hand) 1-3 weeks

Sam Collins (hip) 4 weeks
Sean Lemmens (ankle) 5 weeks

Ben Ainsworth (foot) 5 weeks
Harrison Wigg (knee) Season
Rory Thompson (knee) Season
 
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GWS GIANTS

All eyes will be on Lachie Whitfield ahead of Saturday’s trip to Adelaide.

The star midfielder sat out the final term of the Giants’ big win against Gold Coast after copping a couple of heavy knocks.

It made sense to take a no-risk approach on Saturday, but with all respect to the Suns the stakes are a bit higher next week against the Crows, with the Giants now looking at a home final in the first week of September.

And with stars like Stephen Coniglio, Josh Kelly and Jeremy Cameron to contend with, they will be very hard to beat.

If Whitfield doesn’t come up, the obvious replacements are Zac Williams — if he’s fit — or Jackson Hately, who had another big day in the NEAFL with 30 disposals, eight tackles, three clearances, five inside-50s and a goal.

— Al Paton

INJURIES

Lachie Whitfield (collarbone) TBC

Sam Taylor (corked leg) TBC

Jye Caldwell (calf) 4 weeks

Stephen Coniglio (corked thigh) test

Aidan Corr (calf) 4 weeks

Jonathon Patton (knee) TBC

Tommy Sheridan (calf) 3 weeks

Zac Sproule (knee) 6-8 weeks

Callan Ward (knee) season

Zac Williams (hamstring) 1 week

Battered Giant Lachie Whitfield. Picture: Phil HillyardHAWTHORN

Chad Wingard’s fresh start as a Hawk is definitely not going to plan.

The former Port Adelaide star suffered his fourth soft-tissue injury of the season when he went down with a hamstring in the Hawks’ loss to Brisbane.

“The bye next week will help, but if he’s got a soft tissue he’ll probably miss games, but I’m not sure of the severity of it,” coach Alastair Clarkson said.

It’s not exactly like for like, but could Jarryd Roughead replace Wingard? He had 15 disposals and 20 hitouts in the VFL on Saturday.

Hawthorn gets a week off to recharge for a tilt at the finals with matches against Essendon, Sydney and West Coast after the bye.

Some bad news — they face the Lions again in Round 19. Chris Fagan now has a 3-1 record over former boss Alastair Clarkson.

— Al Paton

INJURIES

Chad Wingard (hamstring) TBC

Grant Birchall (calf/knee) indefinite

Mitch Lewis (concussion) available

Ben McEvoy (ankle) 3-5 weeks

Darren Minchington (hamstring) 1 week

David Mirra (calf) test

Tom Mitchell (broken leg) indefinite

Tim Mohr (dislocated knee/ACL) season

Ryan Schoenmakers (calf) test

Jack Scrimshaw (knee) 4-6 weeks

Chad Wingard didn’t make it through the game against Brisbane.MELBOURNE

Max Gawn said he felt “as low as we’ve got this year” after the Dees threw away their fourth win of the season with a nightmare final quarter in Darwin.

Melbourne kicked 1.8 for the term with Gawn and Sam Weideman missing costly set shots in the final minutes.

“No doubt we’ll get shown some vision throughout the first three quarters of us playing really well, but it’s going to be hard for me to watch that because I’m pretty fixated on what happened at the end there,” Gawn said.

“It’s disappointing, it’s heart-wrenching, it’s almost as low as we’ve got this year.

“We’ve got to pick ourselves up off the canvas, hopefully we get a couple of soldiers back … but the effort’s there, we’ve just got to work on a bit of tactical stuff.”

The Dees copped more bad injury news with Marty Hore pulling out with a calf problem then Christian Salem succumbing to illness at the last minute.

Both should be available next week while recruit Steven May is set for a Queen’s Birthday return against Collingwood after collecting 22 disposals in his VFL return.

— Al Paton

INJURIES

Jay Lockhart (knee) test

Harrison Petty (knee) test

Marty Hore (calf scoreness) test

Christian Salem (illness) test

Neville Jetta (knee) 6-8 weeks

Kade Kolodjashnij (concussion) test

Jake Lever (ankle) test

Jake Melksham (foot) 5-6 weeks

Alex Neal-Bullen (concussion) test

Aaron Nietschke (knee) season

Joel Smith (groin) 4-6 weeks

Aaron vandenBerg (ankle) 4-6 weeks

Guy Walker (shoulder) indefinite

Jordan Lewis (VFL suspension) available

NORTH MELBOURNE

Expect to see Jy Simpkin and Luke Davies-Uniacke spend more time in the Kangaroos midfield under interim coach Rhyce Shaw.

The pair had more than 40 disposals between them on Friday night and internally the club believes it is time to thrust a little more responsibility onto the next wave of young Roos.

Simpkin was dropped back to the VFL for a game earlier in the year but has bounced back strongly.

Both he and “LDU” complemented the more experienced midfielders against the Tigers, with their clean work and pressure noted by Roos fans.

North Melbourne lost Jamie Macmillan during the game and will monitor his recovery.

Paul Ahern continues to perform at VFL level and did so again on Saturday with 27 disposals against Richmond, while mid-season draftee Lachlan Hosie impressed up forward.

— Glenn McFarlane

INJURIES

Jamie Macmillan (calf) TBC

Kayne Turner (ribs/shoulder) TBC

Majak Daw (pelvis/hips) indefinite

Ben Jacobs (head/neck) indefinite

Tom McKenzie (back) TBC

Tom Murphy (ankle) test

Dom Tyson (calf) 2-3 weeks

Ed Vickers-Willis (knee) season

Will Walker (PCL) indefinite

Tom Wilkinson (ankle) 5-7 weeks

Sam Wright (ankle) 2-3 weeks

Jamie Macmillan suffered a calf injury against the Tigers. Picture: Getty ImagesPORT ADELAIDE

Port Adelaide enters the mid-season break with a positive 6-5 win-loss record and fewer questions about its first quarters and lack of scoring after putting up 22 goals against St Kilda in Shanghai on Sunday.

The Power also finished the match injury free, allowing coach Ken Hinkley to plan the second half of the season with greater confidence. More so when Port Adelaide is primed to regain former vice-captain Brad Ebert (concussion) and key forward Charlie Dixon (leg and ankle) after the mid-season break.

Dixon’s return — for the first time since breaking his leg and dislocating his ankle in a marking contest against West Coast in Round 21 — will be so critical to Port Adelaide’s campaign in the second half of the season.

Hinkley returned key defender Dougal Howard to attack in the battle with the Saints, but the prospect of Dixon in the goalsquare would make Port Adelaide a more formidable opponent to the new playbook at Alberton emphasising run and speed.

The Power resumes on the field against Fremantle at Perth Stadium on June 15. This was the match that sunk Port Adelaide last season as Dockers coach Ross Lyon found the way to stifle the Power’s running game — and gave the opposition a blueprint to beating Hinkley’s team after it was a pacesetter with an 11-4 record.

— Michelangelo Rucci

INJURIES

Tom Rockliff (hamstring) TBC

Trent McKenzie (hamstring) TBC

Charlie Dixon (leg) 1-2 weeks

Jack Trengove (leg infection) 2 weeks

Sam Hayes (glandular fever) 2-3 weeks

Brad Ebert (concussion) 2-3 weeks

Ollie Wines (ankle) 2-3 weeks

Jack Watts (leg) TBC

Jake Patmore (knee) season

Luke Davies-Uniacke sends the Kangaroos forward
 
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RICHMOND

Time for a look at Patrick Naish? The Tigers midfield will bounce back against Geelong after being smashed by North Melbourne but whether it is enough to beat the Cats remains to be seen.

What is obvious is that father-son Naish is tearing the VFL to shreds. Naish has kicked eight goals this year off a wing, his latest performance clearly his best.

He kicked two goals to go with 25 possessions, but also had a season-high 12 contested possessions and 143 ranking points, not far off Round 6’s 147 points.

Daniel Rioli’s one-goal, 13-possession game saw him amass only 42 rankings points, likely not enough for him to earn a recall.

The Tigers take on an elite Geelong defence knowing it will be a tough day at the office for Tom Lynch, who needs more help from Josh Caddy and Noah Balta if the Tigers are to kick a winning score.

— Jon Ralph

INJURIES

Luke English (shoulder) 8-10 weeks

Kane Lambert (achilles) 1-2 weeks

Callum Moore (ankle) 6-8 weeks

Toby Nankervis (adductor) 5-6 weeks

Marlion Pickett (finger) 8-10 weeks

Alex Rance (knee) season

Jack Riewoldt (PCL) 4-6 weeks

Jack Ross (ankle) 5-7 weeks

Jayden Short (elbow) 4-5 weeks

Patrick Naish is pushing hard for an AFL debut. Picture: Michael KleinSYDNEY

Has there been a better team placed 15th on the ladder after 11 rounds? The Swans pushed Geelong all the way in hostile territory and can rue inaccuracy in front of goal — kicking 8.15 to the Cats’ 13.7 — for missing a chance of a serious upset.

It doesn’t get much easier next week when the Swans host West Coast at the SCG before their mid-season bye.

There were no fresh injuries but the reserves suffered a 71-point loss to Brisbane. Mid-season draftee Michael Knoll had 23 hitouts and a goal and the coaches could be tempted to throw him to the wolves after Callum Sinclair was soundly beaten in the ruck again.

James Rose picked up 33 disposals and James Rowbottom 24.

— Al Paton

INJURIES

Josh Kennedy (knee) 3 weeks

Harry Cunningham (adductor) 4-6 weeks

George Hewett (concussion) test

Kieren Jack (hip) test

Zak Jones (hamstring) 1-2 weeks

Josh Kennedy (keee) 3-4 weeks

Jack Maibaum (knee) season

Sam Naismith (knee) TBC

Nick Smith (hamstring) TBC

Durak Tucker (Knee) indefinite

Jimmy Webster (hand) 3-4 weeks

WEST COAST

With the game well under control the Eagles opted to bench veteran Shannon Hurn for the entire last quarter after the veteran battled hamstring soreness.

It puts the distributor in some doubt for their clash with Sydney this Sunday.

The conservative approach may have been taken with their upcoming trip to Sydney in mind, with no other blows throughout the match enabling them put the skipper on ice.

It was a consistent performance across the board on their home turf and they would be unlikely to change a winning side.

Ruckman Tom Hickey (ankle) could backup Nathan Vardy in the ruck if fit but the former Cat has performed strongly in the past fortnight as the No. 1 man.

Out-of-favour veteran Chris Masten led the way for the Eagles in their 39-point WAFL loss to Claremont, collecting 30 disposals and seven marks — the only player from his side to win more than 20 possessions.

-Dan Batten

INJURIES

Tom Barrass (foot) 5-7 weeks

Patrick Bines (hernia) TBC

Hamish Brayshaw (toe) Test

Harry Edwards (foot) TBC

Tom Hickey (ankle) test

Nic Naitanui (knee) indefinite

Daniel Venables (concussion) TBC

Francis Watson (shoulder) Test

WESTERN BULLDOGS

A spirited effort to half time until the Eagles lifted, with the 61-point loss stopping the Bulldogs’ promising run of form in its tracks.

Making matters worse was young forward Aaron Naughton being reported for striking after a reckless hit on Will Schofield off the ball.

Naughton had a frustrating day at the office, winning just 7 possessions and booting a goal against a stingy Eagles defence. His incident will come under scrutiny from the Match Review Officer, putting him in doubt for the Bulldogs’ clash with the Blues after their bye.

Young defender Lachie Young came off with a glute concern in the second quarter but played out the match.

A trio of Bulldogs could be available post-bye, with Hayden Crozier (toe), Taylor Duryea (hip) and remarkably, Dale Morris a chance to return. The Bulldogs are likely to take a cautious approach with the latter.

-Dan Batten

INJURIES

Hayden Crozier (toe) 1-2 weeks

Mitch Wallis (ankle) TBC

Ben Cavarra (hamstring) Test

Taylor Duryea (hip) 1-2 weeks

Dale Morris (knee) 1-2 weeks

Lukas Webb (broken leg/ankle) TBC
 
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SuperCoach bye bible: How to survive the next three rounds

We can’t ignore it any longer — the byes are here. Luckily there are special SuperCoach rules to help us cope. And if you know what you’re doing, you can even get a jump on your mates.

Tim Michell and Al Paton, Herald Sun

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June 3, 2019 1:36pm

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HERALDSUN7:46

SuperCoach: How to survive the byes

Al Paton and Tim Michell explain how to get the best score from Rounds 12-14

We can’t ignore it any longer — the byes are here.

Six teams will have a week off for each of the next three rounds, wreaking potential havoc with our SuperCoach teams. But fortunately there are special rules to help us cope, and if you know what you’re doing you can use this as an opportunity to get a jump on your mates. We’re here to help!

WHO’S MISSING?

Let’s start with the basics. In Round 12 (that’s this week) Essendon, Fremantle, Hawthorn, Port Adelaide, St Kilda and the Western Bulldogs have the bye. That means Nat Fyfe, Travis Boak and Tom Liberatore won’t be playing for us in SuperCoach.

The next week Brisbane Lions, Collingwood, Geelong, Melbourne, Sydney and West Coast have the bye. That one will catch out a lot of coaches, especially if they have Brodie Grundy and Max Gawn in the ruck.

The final bye week, Round 14, we’ll be without players from Richmond, Adelaide, Carlton, Gold Coast, GWS and North Melbourne.

BYE RULES

The first thing to know is you won’t be penalised for having some players missing over the next few weeks.

Only your best 18 scoring players count towards your weekly score — that means you can afford to have up to 12 “doughnuts” and still field a full team.

There are a few things to note:

— The 18 scoring players must be on field to count, so you’ll need to ensure your available players are among your starting 22.

— If you have extra players available on any line you can set them as emergencies as usual. They will replace non-playing players in your starting 22.

— Set a captains and vice-captain as usual.

Lachie Neale is a trade priority after Brisbane’s bye.

IT’S LOOPHOLE TIME

One advantage of having players unavailable is it gives everyone the chance to try the “vice-captain loophole” to maximise your captain score for the round.

Select a player capable of a very high score who plays early in the round and make them your vice-captain. Good options this week include Patrick Dangerfield, Tim Kelly and Lachie Neale.

If they score exceptionally well (over 120 points), make sure a player from a team with the bye (like Fyfe) your captain. At the end of the round you’ll get your vice-captain’s score doubled — just make sure you have an emergency selected (if you have enough players) to cover your zero player.

RAGE TRADES: WHO’S ON THE CHOPPING BLOCK?

HEROES AND VILLAINS: DUNKLEY FIRES, WHERE’S CRIPPS?

You can try the same trick if you have extra available players in any position.

For example, if you have seven defenders available this week put a non-playing player on the field and a player who plays early in the round on the bench as your emergency — don’t use one of your top-scorers, this is very handy when trying to choose between two cheapies such as Noah Answerth and Jordan Clark.

In this example make Clark and emergency and see how he goes on Friday night against Richmond. If he scores well (70 points or better) leave your non-scoring player on the field and you’ll get Clark’s score at the end of the round. If he underperforms you can move your non-playing player off the field and replace him with Answerth. Just make sure you don’t leave it too late since the Lions play the second game of the round on Saturday.

NOTE: All bye players can be moved on or off the field and traded until the start of the last game on Sunday.

Nat Fyfe will be missing this week.

TRADE STRATEGY

Three trades every week should help us navigate each bye round, but taking a medium-term approach can pay big dividends as we set up our teams for the run home.

If you’re trading this week, target players who have the Round 14 bye. Those players will then be available to cover the opening two weeks of the byes and you will have six trades to compensate for their absence in Round 14. Stephen Coniglio — fresh off a 207 against Gold Coast — Rory Laird and Dustin Martin should be on the hit list if you have the cash.

Next week, your priority should be trading in players who have just had their bye. Look at Travis Boak, Fyfe, Zach Merrett, James Sicily and Jack Macrae.

The most popular player that week is likely to be Fremantle’s Brett Bewley. If selected he will be playing his third game and ready to shoot up in price, and trading another cheapie for him will free up the cash to grab the stars listed above.

Some coaches will pull two or even three similar moves to create a huge war chest to spend the next week when the likes of Lachie Neale, Elliot Yeo and Clayton Oliver will be ripe for recruiting after their respective byes — perfect upgrades from the likes of Sam Walsh and Noah Balta who are about to miss a week.

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HERALDSUN11:42

Top SuperCoach mid-season draft prospects

Al Paton and Tim Michell rate the SuperCoach potential of every mid-season draftee

YOU CAN’T WIN THEM ALL

We don’t condone tanking. But if you are sitting pretty in your league and only need two wins from the three bye rounds to maintain your position, effectively throwing in the towel during one of the three bye rounds can pay off.

This strategy involves trading in top-liners such as Neale, Yeo and Adam Treloar early and conceding you will score poorly in Round 13. With these players available for both Round 12 and Round 14, you are banking on picking up wins in these rounds to compensate for a poor score in Round 13. It will cost you in the overall rankings but could set you up to charge home in leagues. However, it could backfire spectacularly if your team loses in rounds where you have pencilled in a win.

Sam Walsh can be traded out before Carlton’s bye in Round 14.

WATCH YOUR MATCH-UPS

If you’re employing the strategy listed above, it will pay to study the fixture to see who you’re playing in your priority league(s) over the next three weeks. This will also help inform trade decisions if you’re starting to run low (16 or fewer).

Do you need to trade to get a win or can you afford to hold? You can use the fixture to your advantage by holding back on your trades as the round unfolds — if things are looking dire in your vital head-to-head match-up you can still use trades in the late Sunday games in a last-ditch bid for victory.

If you’re up against a team which is missing a host of players in a bye round where you have 17 or 18 players, bank on them securing victory and use the three trades later in the season when other coaches are running dangerously low. It could ultimately be what wins you a final.

DON’T PANIC

Short-term thinking can cost you dearly in SuperCoach. In this game, “sideways trades” — swapping a player out for another of similar value — are almost always a bad idea.

As nice as it would be to have Lachie Neale in your team this week, if you trade a player such as Marcus Bontempelli or Jack Macrae to the No.1 scorer, you’ll only pay next week when Brisbane has the bye.

Not having 18 scoring players might not be the end of the world. There’s no point throwing out your long-term strategy or culling a reliable scorer only to make up the numbers with a rookie who scores only 20 points.

And remember — everyone else is in the same boat.
 
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Thanks @Professor for the 'The Barometer: Injury news', as I will be closely monitoring my injured players this week, Sloane, Whitfield, Hurn, Hore and Grundy.

Edit: If any of them had a long term injury, the decision to trade them out would be easy, but all MAY play next week, hmmm.

Edit 2: Just caught up that Whitfield will be missing long term.
 
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SuperCoach AFL trade guide: The best options to navigate first two weeks of bye rounds

With no obvious bubble boys and six teams missing, Round 12 shapes as one of the most challenging yet. Here’s the SuperCoach trades you should consider.

Tim Michell, Herald Sun

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The savvy SuperCoach had Round 12 pencilled in as the bye week they would build a war chest to load their side with premiums.

The only issue? There’s no obvious bubble boy.

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Impressive one-gamer Dylan Clarke, Fremantle’s Brett Bewley and Western Bulldogs mid-season draftee Ryan Gardner have the bye, robbing coaches of the three top downgrade options.

Leon Cameron, Chris Scott, Adam Simpson and Chris Fagan will shape the plans of thousands of teams this week.

If Jackson Hately, Darcy Fort, Josh Rotham or Mitchell Hinge earn a re-call, any of these four two-gamers would provide a stepping stone to the leading scorers.

Deciding which premiums to target this week will be difficult.

Ben Cunnington could be the Round 14 bye player to help get you through the next two weeks. Picture: Wayne Ludbey.

Most coaches will target Round 14 players and use their trades over the next two weeks to compensate for their absence.

Only Patrick Cripps, who is already in 61.9 per cent of teams, has scored more points than North Melbourne bull Ben Cunnington of the Round 14 bye players.

Cunnington has a three-round average of 119.7, is still only in 2.8 per cent of teams and hasn’t scored less than 91 this year with six scores of 115 or better.

RAGE TRADES: WHO SHOULD YOU CHOP AHEAD OF ROUND 12?

BOLTON SACKED: BLUES AXE COACH AFTER DISMAL RUN

CONTENDERS: WHO WILL COACH CARLTON IN 2020?

If the Roos star doesn’t take your fancy, Richmond pair Dustin Martin and Bachar Houli are worth consideration.

Houli has the best three-round average of any defender (127.7), while Martin has roared back to form with scores of 128 and 113 in the past three weeks.

However, Josh Kelly should be top of your shopping list, but he’ll be hard to get at $659,700 with so few downgrade targets.

Dustin Martin has been back to his best in the past two weeks. Picture: Alex Coppel.TOP TARGETS

BEN CUNNINGTON $565,000, Mid, Avg 113.3, Break even 105

The North Melbourne contested bull has not averaged better than 96.3 in any season, but this year has elevated himself into elite SuperCoach status. Incredibly consistent, Cunnington has not scored below 91 and has three totals above 120. He takes on Gold Coast, who have leaked points to midfielders, this weekend. A possible Matt De Boer tag looms in Round 13, but the Roos have a friendly fixture for the rest of the season. You’d be foolish not to consider him.

DUSTIN MARTIN $524,700, Mid, Avg 96.9, BE 108

Welcome back Dusty. The Brownlow medallist has hit the scoreboard and been close to his best in the past three weeks, making him a legitimate target for the first week of the byes. Martin has not scored below 89 since he returned to the Tigers side in Round 5 and has pumped out 128, 92 and 113 in the past three weeks. If you traded him out after an underwhelming start, it might be time to swallow your pride.

JOSH KELLY, $659,700, Mid, Avg 124.1, BE 108

Kelly is hurtling toward a price of $700,000 after four consecutive scores of 131 or better. His average of 124.1 is the fourth-best of the season, behind only Brodie Grundy, Max Gawn and Lachie Neale. The GWS ball magnet has had a recent history of soft-tissue injuries, but on his recent numbers you can’t afford to let that sway your trade decision. It might take two downgrades to build your bank, but you won’t regret bringing in Kelly.

Josh Kelly is shaping as one of the top midfielders of the year. Picture: Phil Hillyard.

BACHAR HOULI $541,100, Def, Avg 110.8, BE 42

The No. 1 defender over the past three weeks? Not Lachie Whitfield. Not Jake Lloyd. Bachar Houli. Houli has a three-round average of 127.7 which puts him ahead of Lloyd (126.3), Shannon Hurn (119.3) and Whitfield (116.7). It feels like we have been coming up with excuses not to pick him in recent weeks — age, injury history and Jayden Short’s possible return among them. But forget those. Houli is in red-hot form and you’re only missing out by not having him.

JEREMY CAMERON $483,400, Fwd, Avg 99.8, BE 84

You might have missed out on Cameron’s hundred after five goals and 20 disposals against Gold Coast, but he’s still well priced heading into Round 12. Cameron has six tons in 11 games this year, only two scores below 70 and is scoring consistently enough not to be lumped in with the traditional ‘avoid key forwards at all costs’ rule. GWS has a friendly run home and plays Gold Coast again in SuperCoach grand final week.

STEPHEN CONIGLIO $510,100, Mid, Avg 106.4, BE 22

After the first double ton of the year against the Suns — 207 — Coniglio’s break even has crashed back to 22. It’s never wise to chase points and Coniglio has had a few quiet weeks this year, but with a Round 14 bye and at $78,500 less than his starting price he’s a perfect upgrade option this week. He had three scores below 90 before the weekend, but has been battling different injuries.

RORY LAIRD $504,600, Def, Avg 99, BE 94

One of the most popular defenders, Laird is available for $83,000 less than his starting price with two rounds left before his bye. He’s been incredibly consistent this year with 11 scores between 84 and 124. Reliability has always been Laird’s strength and although he hasn’t hit triple figures as often as recent years, you should be aiming to have him in your finished defence.

Isaac Heeney has been a frustrating player to own this season. Picture: AAP Image/Joel Carrett.

CHOPPING BLOCK

TOM LIBERATORE $423,800, Mid

MATT PARKER $240,200, Fwd

CONNOR ROZEE $412,400, Def-Fwd

ISAAC HEENEY $452,300, Fwd-Mid

DARCY MOORE $381,100, Def-Fwd

WILLEM DREW $321,800, Fwd-Mid

WILL HAYES $201,300, Mid

Liberatore, Parker, Rozee, Drew and Hayes each have the bye this week and you can move them on without too many regrets. While Liberatore and Rozee could score well for the rest of the year, you need to sacrifice some value if you want to make the jump to top premiums such as Josh Kelly. You won’t get there simply by upgrading and downgrading rookies. Parker has done his job, making more than $100,000, while Drew has been on the outer at Port Adelaide for about a month. You can afford to hold Moore for another week before his Round 13 bye, while Heeney makes this list due to a frustrating run of outs. He only has one hundred in his past seven games and three tons for the year. He might be the pawn who gets you Travis Boak next week.

HOLD

XAVIER DUURSMA $362,100, Def-Mid

ZAK BUTTERS $297,200, Mid

Consider the break evens of this Port Adelaide pair before you move them on. It’s tempting to cash in on their value if it helps you bring in premiums, but if you can get through this week they’ll be available and make money until the end of the byes. Butters has a break even of 11 after his 112 against St Kilda, while Duursma has gone 108 and 92 in his past two games.

Hold fire on those Xavier Duursma trades! Picture: Michael Willson/AFL Photos.BARGAIN BIN

Under $500k

Patrick Dangerfield $499,200

Jeremy Cameron $483,400

Jacob Hopper $481,400

Jack Ziebell $467,500

Rowan Marshall $462,000

Under $450k

James Worpel $444,800

Jack Darling $417,000

Wayne Milera $411,400

Angus Brayshaw $407,100

Jade Gresham $397,500
 
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In the mix: Who's pushing for selection for round 12?

Staff writers

Jun 4, 2019 1:26PM

Who's knocking on the selectors' door? Who's coming back from injury? And who's under the pump?

Get them in: Matt Crouch should return from a hip/abdominal injury to face Greater Western Sydney on Saturday night. Two veterans – ruckman Sam Jacobs (five goals, 28 hitouts in the SANFL) and midfielder Richard Douglas(31 disposals) - are back from long injury layo***. Key defender Kyle Hartigan could be recalled to take on the Giants' tall timber.

Under the pump: Bryce Gibbs impressed in a tagging role last week, but could be squeezed out, as could ruckman Reilly O'Brien. Small forward Lachlan Murphy (four disposals, one goal and one tackle) was quiet against the Demons.

Medical room: Rory Sloane is a 50-50 chance of overcoming a grade one hamstring tear.

Verdict: Crouch in for Sloane, Jacobs for O'Brien and Douglas for Gibbs. – Lee Gaskin

INJURY WRAP All the bumps, bruises and breaks from round 11

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Get them in: Jacob Allison pushed his case again with another strong NEAFL performance against Sydney, while Josh Walker also played well after being dropped from the seniors.

Under the pump: After a slow start it was hard to find a player that didn't contribute against the Hawks. Archie Smith, Ben Keays and Nick Robertson all did what was asked of them after being called up.

Medical room: Ruckman Oscar McInerney should be available again after being managed last week, as should Ryan Lester who suffered a minor quad injury the week before.

Verdict: Might be a temptation to bring Walker back in against a taller Carlton forward line, but no need to change a winning team. - Michael Whiting

Get them in: Mitch McGovern could be back after missing last week's loss to Essendon with an ankle injury, while veteran Kade Simpson, who was managed last week, is also expected to come back into the side to add some experience to the line-up. Dale Thomas put in a strong game after being banished to the VFL, but is one week there enough of a punishment for his drinking ill-discipline?

Under the pump: It's hard to see how Alex Fasolo retains his place in Carlton's side after managing just two kicks last week. Matthew Kennedy was also quiet in the midfield with only eight touches.

Medical room: Darcy Lang limped from the field in the first half against the Bombers but returned to the field after the corked leg. He didn't have an impact on the game, though, with only eight disposals.

Verdict: It will be interesting to see what changes interim coach David Teague makes in his first game in charge. Some experience will be back in the senior line-up, and after last week's shocking loss to Essendon you'd expect there'd be plenty of Blues on the selection tightrope. - Callum Twomey

It will be interesting to see David Teague's call on Dale Thomas. Picture: AFL Photos



Get them in: Big man Mason Cox could return from injury for the Queen's Birthday clash with Melbourne at the MCG on Monday, while midfielders Brayden Sier and Josh Daicos,and would-be debutant Isaac Quaynor, could also be in line for promotion.

Under the pump: Small forward Josh Thomas hasn't been as damaging as he was last season and even dropped a couple of regulation chest marks in a particularly quiet showing in the loss to Fremantle.

Medical room: Grundy (ankle) laboured against the Dockers but should be OK, while Cox (ankle) will be tested.

Verdict: Even if Cox proves his fitness, he'd likely resume in the VFL given he has missed five games and the key forward combination of Brody Mihocek and Ben Reid has enjoyed some success. Sier or Daicos could come in at the expense of Thomas. – Ben Collins

FROM THE TWOS Dumped Blue stars, Don's stunning grab

Mason Cox may miss out even if fit due to team balance. Picture: AFL Photos



Bye

Bye

Get them in: Gary Ablett is a walk-up start after his suspension. Scott Selwood is edging towards a return and was one of four players on managed game time in the VFL on Sunday alongside Jed Bews, Wylie Buzza and Lachie Fogarty. Zach Guthrie was named best in the VFL and remains firmly in the frame. Charlie Constable appears a touch further down the pecking order.

Under the pump: Midfielder James Parsons (15 disposals) hasn't done a lot wrong but is on the edge. Gryan Miers had his lowest possession count (11) since round three and could be in line for a rest with the six-day break, and Tom Atkins will also feel pressure with spots up for grabs. Zac Smith looked up to the level but is behind Rhys Stanley as the preferred option.

Medical room: Stanley missed his second game in three weeks with an adductor but is hopeful of a return.

Verdict: Ablett for Parsons, with more midfield minutes for Miers and Atkins. If fit, Stanley for Smith. - Mitch Cleary

Gary Ablett is a certain starter for the clash against Richmond. Picture: AFL Photos



Get them in: A heavy NEAFL loss but Will Brodie was again prolific in the midfield. Callum Ah Chee was impressive but might need another game to regain fitness after his quad injury, while Jack Leslie might come into consideration to help an undersized backline.

Under the pump: A few quiet against GWS would be concerned. Versatile Chris Burgess battled in defence, while Josh Schoenfeld didn't quite grasp his chance either.

Medical room: More bad news with Jack Bowes to miss an extended period with a quad injury. Vice-captain Touk Miller has missed three weeks with a heel problem but should finally be close to a recall. Jarrod Harbrow missed against the Giants with a groin complaint and is expected to be OK.

Verdict: With no obvious matchup for towering Ben Brown, it would be a good time to bring in Leslie for his first game of the season, mostly likely at the expense of Burgess. Harbrow back in for Bowes, and if Miller is fit, he would come in for Schoenfeld. - Michael Whiting
 
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Get them in: Star defender Zac Williams will push hard for a recall after missing the past two games with a hamstring injury but could need another week off, while fellow backman Sam Taylor looks certain to play after missing last week with a corkie. Young draftee Jackson Hately and dumped forward Daniel Lloydwere both outstanding in the NEAFL.

Under the pump: Lachie Keeffe came in for Taylor last week and, while he was serviceable against Gold Coast, isn't likely to keep his place if the youngster is passed fit.

Medical room: Lachie Whitfield will miss up to six weeks with a broken collarbone, while Toby Greene also finished the win over Gold Coast on the bench with soreness behind his knee.

Verdict: Williams looks set to replace Whitfield, Taylor comes back in for Keeffe and if Greene isn't risked, he's replaced by Lloyd. – Adam Curley

Bye

Get them in: Boom recruit Steven May starred on return from a groin injury in the VFL, collecting 23 disposals and nine marks. While Jake Lever is over his ankle concern, he probably needs another week. Veteran Jordan Lewis was forced to sit out because of suspension.

Under the pump: May's form might make Oscar McDonald edgy, Charlie Spargo and Josh Wagner are on the cusp, and Jay Kennedy Harris is around that mark too, although he did enough in the tight loss to Adelaide.

Medical room: The Dees will be desperate to see Christian Salem overcome his illness. Impressive backman Marty Hore needs to overcome a sore calf.

Verdict: How many tall defenders the Dees pick depends on how Collingwood lines up on Queen's Birthday and whether Mason Cox returns from his ankle issue. The tip is May, Salem and Hore in for McDonald, Spargo and Wagner, with Lewis in place of Wagner if Hore doesn't get up. - Dinny Navaratnam

The Dees' defensive stocks will get a big boost if Steven May comes in. Picture: AFL Photos



Get them in: Paul Ahern was best afield with 33 disposals and seven tackles in the Roos' VFL win and must be getting close to senior selection. Taylor Garner, fresh from three goals, is another obvious candidate for a recall, while Sam Durdin is pushing for a defensive spot.

Under the pump: Tarryn Thomas is arguably the club's brightest prospect, but may be due for a rest or a VFL stint.

Medical room: All eyes are on Jamie Macmillan (calf) this week as he attempts to prove his fitness after sitting out all bar a quarter-and-a-half of his 150th match last week. Fellow experienced pair Sam Wright(ankle) and Dom Tyson (calf) may not return until after the round 14 bye. Second-year defender Tom Murphy (ankle) finally returned in the VFL on Saturday for his first game since April 13.

Verdict: Much depends on Macmillan's fitness, and Durdin may be his replacement. There's a decent chance at least one of Ahern or Garner earns a promotion. – Marc McGowan

Bye

Get them in: Father-son selection Patrick Naish is banging down the door for a debut, named Richmond's best in the VFL after a 28-disposal, two-goal effort, although his defensive work still needs development. Jack Graham (24, 10 tackles) continues to peg away, while Category B rookie Derek Eggmolesse-Smith is stringing some strong games together in defence. Small forward Daniel Rioli had 12 touches and seven tackles after his omission.

Under the pump: Dan Butler was relatively quiet on his return to AFL (six touches) but bobbed up to kick two goals. Dylan Grimeshad an extremely rare off night but is one of the first Tigers picked every week, while Shai Bolton (10 disposals, one tackle) struggled at times.

Medical room: Midfielder Kane Lambert is at least another week, if not two, off with Achilles tendonitis.

Verdict: After being beaten comprehensively around the ball, Graham is an attractive proposition to come in for one of the smalls, with Bolton's low tackle count possibly putting him in the frame for omission. - Sarah Black

If it's toughness the Tigers need, Jack Graham could be their man. Picture: AFL Photos

Bye

Get them in: James Rowbottom and James Rose maintained their good NEAFL form in the Swans' big loss to Brisbane, while Darcy Cameron, Justin McInerney and Ben Ronkealso found some touch. Speedster Riley Stoddart played his best game of the season in another good sign for Sydney.

Under the pump: Midfielder Robbie Foxcontinues to have little offensive impact at AFL level but laid eight tackles in a solid defensive effort.

Medical room: Co-captain Josh Kennedy(knee), Zak Jones (hamstring) and Kieren jack(hip) won't be any chance of a recall until after the bye.

Verdict: The Swans have performed admirably over the past fortnight against Collingwood and Geelong without managing a win, and with no standout players belting the selection door down, John Longmire will go into Sunday's clash with West Coast unchanged. – Adam Curley

DON'T JUDGE HIM Dane Rampe's 150 games have been getting interesting recently

Get them in: If skipper Shannon Hurn isn't risked after hamstring tightness, Jackson Nelson or Josh Rotham will come under consideration for a defensive spot. Veteran wingman Chris Masten (30 disposals) was also in decent form in the WAFL team's loss to Claremont.

Under the pump: Not many after a 10-goal win. Jack Petruccelle has kicked just three goals in five games but offers more than that with his pace and pressure and will probably hold his spot ahead of Jarrod Cameron.

Medical room: Ruck recruit Tom Hickey has missed two weeks with an ankle and will find it tough to unseat Nathan Vardy. His comeback will probably be at Joondalup against West Perth on Sunday.

Verdict: Nelson or Rotham for Hurn, if the captain fails to get up in time for the trip to face Sydney. – Travis King

Can the Eagles risk playing Shannon Hurn, or risk not playing him? Picture: AFL Photos


Bye
 
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For those about to trade in Robbie Gray after his bye, I suggest you read this first.

After an impressive midfield debut against the Saints in China, is Dan Houston the answer to Port Adelaide’s kicking issues in the middle?
He’s rated as an elite defender. But Dan Houston put on an impressive show in the midfield in Shanghai. And he could be the key to lifting the Power’s lowly kicking efficiency.
The Phantom, The Advertiser
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Power demolish Saints
AFL: Port Adelaide dismantle St Kilda by a whopping 70 points in their match over in Shanghai.


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Port Adelaide’s first-choice midfield has no problem winning the ball, ranking first for contested possession and clearances in the competition, but it’s the ball-use away from the stoppage which has become an issue.
Collectively, the Power’s midfield, including wingmen, have registered a kicking efficiency of 56.6 per cent this season — the second-lowest in the competition.
Only Gold Coast midfielders have hit less targets by foot in 2019.
Enter Dan Houston.
Dan Houston was impressive in the Power midfield against the Saints. Picture: Michael Willson/AFL Photos.
Prior to the China trip, Houston was in career-best form across half-back.
The 22-year-old, who Champion Data rates as an elite general defender in the AFL, made his midfield debut against the Saints in China.
And it was an impressive start.
Houston attended the second-most centre bounces (22) for the Power — behind only Travis Boak — and recorded career highs in disposals (28), clearances (7) and loose-ball gets (7).
But his 22 effective disposals — also a career high — and disposal efficiency of 78 per cent stood out the most.
As did Houston’s clanger count, given the 186cm right-footer, who is rarely rushed, didn’t register one.
The only other Power player to do the same was forward Kane Farrell but he only had seven touches.
In the absence of co-captain Ollie Wines, Travis Boak has led the engine room, ranking fourth for disposals, sixth for contested possessions and eighth for clearances in the game after 11 rounds.
His midfield sidekick Tom Rockliff isn’t far behind, tallying the eighth-most disposals, seventh-most clearances and 13th-most contested possessions per game.
Travis Boak was outstanding in the midfield once again in a best-on-ground performance in the win over St Kilda. Picture: Michael Willson/AFL Photos.
But as good as they’ve been - Boak in particular - both have recorded a below-average kicking efficiency of 55 per cent or less.
Other midfield regulars Sam Powell-Pepper (50.4 per cent) and Ollie Wines (42.9 per cent) are even less-efficient by foot.
Houston’s kicking efficiency of 76 per cent is seven per cent higher than any Power player classified as a midfielder.

CLUB KICKING EFFICIENCY Geelong64.3Western Bulldogs63.8Brisbane63Hawthorn62.6Collingwood62.2Richmond61.7St Kilda61.4North Melbourne61GWS60.3Melbourne60.2Fremantle59.7Essendon59.3West Coast59.1Sydney58.7Adelaide56.8Carlton56.6PORT ADELAIDE56.6Gold Coast56.1
Prior to the midfield move, Houston - who was drafted by the Power in the 2015 rookie draft as a medium-sized forward - was in career-best form as a rebounding defender, averaging 22 disposals, five marks, five rebound 50s and 99 Champion Data ranking points per game in the past month.
“Dan Houston’s been in unbelievably good form for, I’d say, the best part of two seasons,” coach Ken Hinkley said post-match.
“Now he’s stepped up and shown he’s got another string to his bow — and that’s as a midfielder.”
With the return of Ryan Burton and Riley Bonner across half-back, Houston’s midfield move might become more than a one-off, given his attributes address a key deficiency in that part of the ground for the Power.
PORT ADELAIDE’S MIDFIELD BY FOOT
Xavier Duursma (Wing)
69.2% - Above Average
Karl Amon (Wing)
68.7% - Above Average
Willem Drew (Mid)
63.9% - Above Average
Tom Rockliff (Mid)
55.3% - Below Average
Travis Boak (Mid)
54.4% - Below Average
Sam Powell-Pepper (Mid-Fwd)
50.4% - Below Average
Robbie Gray (Mid-Fwd)
49.3% - Below Average
Ollie Wines (Mid)
42.9% - Poor
*Ratings are based off players position
 
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Carlton is certain to put its first-round draft pick on the trade table at the end of the season

Much has been made of Carlton’s pick swap with Adelaide, but the draft selection might not stay at the club, with the Blues open to moving it on for an experienced player.

JON RALPH, Herald Sun

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Carlton’s first-round draft pick is certain to be on the table this year as the Blues attempt to rapidly jump up the AFL ladder in 2020.

The Blues’ side that played Essendon was the youngest in Brendon Bolton’s tenure, with the sacked coach adamant Carlton must bring senior bodies into the team.

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That strategy is part of the club’s planning, having offered up its future first-round pick for Dylan Shiel last year.

It means after trading first-round picks with Adelaide over the Liam Stocker deal, the pick they receive — currently No. 11 — will be the centrepiece of their trade hand.

Out-of-contract forward Jack Silvagni’s future at the club is uncertain after six goals in seven games playing as a half forward.

But he is determined to remain at the club if he can win enough senior opportunities in his fourth year under former forwards coach David Teague.

KEY MEETINGS: HOW BOLTON’S SACKING UNFOLDED

ROBBO: WHY THE BLUES MUST TRY CLARKO

LIST CHANGES: WHERE THINGS WENT WRONG FOR BLUES

He will sit down with his manager over the mid-season bye to consider his options.

But having grown up a Carlton supporter with his dad, now the club’s list manager, a star player he would be extremely reluctant to pursue a trade.

The Blues have long had an interest in exciting Gold Coast half forward Jack Martin, who at 24 is the perfect age bracket and with the kind of silky skills the club lacks.

Jack Silvagni’s future is up in the air. Picture: Getty Images

The Blues have traded away their second-round pick for Will Setterfield and would be tempting fate to trade away next year’s first-rounder after the Stocker trade.

Bolton said on Monday the club’s Bryce Gibbs trade had damaged his immediate prospects, adamant he was still comfortable with the decision because it was in Carlton’s best interests.

But he said the Blues had to bring more experience into the side.

“Ultimately it’s put pressure on and the win-loss got me but we need to keep sticking to the next layer which will be getting in more mature bodies with our football club which will help our exciting young talent led by two incredible leaders. The next step will be in that space with this management.”
 
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