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[Spots]

SuperCoach: The leading POD contenders for season 2020
Dan Batten, Herald Sun
January 31, 2020 11:17am
Subscriber only

While selecting the best players is the key to KFC SuperCoach, no one is taking out the $50,000 prize without taking some risks.
Point-of-difference (POD) selections can help give you the edge over your competitors, and they also make SuperCoach a lot more fun.
PODs are generally considered to be selections owned by less than 10 per cent of SuperCoach teams.
The lower their ownership, the greater the advantage.
These picks can have dangerous consequencese if they go wrong – that it is why it’s crucial to get them right.

But not all of these hidden gems are necessarily high risk.
Here are the leading early POD contenders ahead of season 2020.

Defence
Shannon Hurn (West Coast, $562.2k)
2019 average: 103.5 (19 matches)
Ownership: 7 per cent
Hurn is no stranger to being a SuperCoach POD and those who started with the reliable defender last year at his low ownership were handsomely rewarded. Hurn averaged a formidable 113.5 points in the first half of the year, ranking him among Lachie Whitfield and Jake Lloyd as the top defenders to that point. He failed to reach the same heights from thereon after missing games with injury over the byes, which has clearly scared SuperCoaches off.
The Eagles use Hurn’s booming right foot as a weapon, and he hit the target with 82.6 per cent of kicks last season – the highest of the top-20 ranked defenders. Kick-ins are also a valuable source of points for the veteran, playing on 72.5 per cent of the time, and his kick-to-handball ratio of 3.7 is SuperCoach gold.Shannon Hurn is a SuperCoach POD yet again.

Caleb Daniel (Western Bulldogs, $537.9k)
2019 average: 99.1 (19 matches)
Ownership: 7 per cent
Speaking of kick-in merchants, Caleb Daniel gets plenty of extra points from the wayward kicking of his opposition. Daniel played on from 85.2 per cent of kick-ins – just behind Swans rebounder Jake Lloyd (87.2 per cent) – with these bonus points ensuring he rarely fails to deliver. Given the Bulldogs’ distributor role at the beginning of last season, Daniel fell below 93 just twice to Round 15, averaging 99.1 points in 2019. Repeat hamstring injuries held him back late in the season, and this coupled with a loss of forward status has seen SuperCoaches lose interest. He averaged 103 points per game under the roof of Marvel Stadium last season, where the Bulldogs play 12 games in 2020, and looms as a low-risk POD option.

Darcy Byrne-Jones (Port Adelaide, $473.4k)
2019 average: 87.2 (22 matches)
Ownership: 1 per cent
While many SuperCoaches have been enticed by Dan Houston’s (18 per cent ownership) new midfield role, his teammate Darcy Byrne-Jones has been left untouched. The 24-year-old, who was a promising cash cow way back in 2016, burst onto the scene as a potential premium in the back-half of 2019. Byrne-Jones registered eight tons from Round 8 onwards, averaging 95.9 points per game - including a stretch of three 115-plus totals. He also burnt teams who brought him late, scoring just 7 points in Round 22 after back-to-back tons. That aberration aside, we should see strong scoring from Byrne-Jones with another pre-season under his belt. One to keep a close eye on during the pre-season.

Midfield
Adam Treloar (Collingwood, $615.8k)
2019 average: 113.4 (22 games)
Ownership: 7 per cent
With so many damaging midfield scorers to choose from, Adam Treloar generally feels the ownership squeeze despite his noted scoring ability. The Pies ball-magnet has averaged more than 109 points in three of his past four seasons and enjoyed a career best SuperCoach season last year. Treloar averaged 32.9 disposals, a tick under six clearances and 113.4 points. Coaches have been turned off Treloar in the past for his low SuperCoach output for the amount of Sherrin he gets, but the 26-year-old reached the 150 mark on three occasions last season, highlighted by his monster 177-point total against the Gold Coast. Most sides are likely to have Macrae, Fyfe, Cripps and Danger – why not throw Treloar into the mix?

Andrew Gaff (West Coast, $583.2k)
2019 average: 107.4 (20 matches)
Ownership: 2 per cent
Outside midfielders don’t make for reliable and consistent SuperCoach scorers, but Andrew Gaff is the exception to the rule. The smooth-moving Eagle has returned season averages of 108.2 and 107.4 in 2018 and 2019 respectively, falling below 85 points on just two occasions across 39 matches. Last season he was an extremely dependable ball-winner, recording 27 disposals or more in every game. Will the extra midfield assistance of Tim Kelly hinder or enhance Gaff’s SuperCoach influence? Considering he does most of his best work on the outside, it could see the left-footer creep closer towards a 110-point average. See how he fares during the pre-season before taking the punt.

Dion Prestia (Richmond, $550.2k)
2019 average: 101.3 (22 matches)
Ownership: 1 per cent
Dion Prestia comes into this season a touch under-priced considering his finals series is not factored into his 2020 starting price. The strong midfielder had a major impact in the Tiger’s first two finals, posting 109 points against the Lions and then backing it up with a whopping 164-point display in the preliminary final. He also held his own among the top premiums in the competition from Round 10 onward, averaging a formidable 111.9 points per game. The injuries that usually follow Prestia at every corner were non-existent last season, playing every game in 2019 – the first time he has achieved this feat since 2014. With Dustin Martin spending more time close to goal and Trent Cotchin’s ball-winning presence fading, Prestia could elevate into the uber-premium bracket.

 

[Spots]

Ruck
Scott Lycett (Port Adelaide, $550.6k)
2019 average: 101.4 (18 matches)
Ownership: 1 per cent
It was a rollercoaster year for Lycett in 2019, posting two scores of 160 or more, another three below 60 and also getting dropped for youngster Peter Ladhams. While his season was marred by inconsistency, an average of 101.4 points per game while sharing ruck duties is encouraging. Expect greater stability from the Power ruckman this season without Paddy Ryder in the Power line-up. Returning key forward Charlie Dixon will most likely pinch-hit in the ruck to give Lycett a break, but the former Eagle should add to his 2019 average. Will it be enough to justify starting him over Gawn or Grundy? Probably not, but he is worth watching out for in their pre-season games.

Forward
Hugh Greenwood (Gold Coast, $463.1k)
2019 average: 85.3 (14 matches)
Ownership: 8 per cent
While Hugh Greenwood’s move from the Crows to the Suns barely made headlines in the trade period, astute SuperCoaches were licking their lips. Why? Because they know Greenwood has all the tools to be a formidable SuperCoach scorer – he just needs the midfield time. The big-bodied midfielder won 64.1 per cent of his possessions in a contest last season and is a noted tackler – two significant scoring avenues. Last season Greenwood spent 52 per cent of time in the midfield compared to 42 per cent as a forward at the Crows. You would expect that midfield time to rise in a young Suns midfield that is crying out for mature bodies. Playing as a full-time midfielder in the SANFL, Greenwood averaged 125 points in the final four rounds.

Jordan Dawson (Sydney, $467.8k)
2019 average: 86.2 (20 matches)
Ownership: 8 per cent
Dawson impressed in a variety of roles last season and finished with an impressive return of 86.2 points per game. Considering Dawson had played five games before his eye-catching 2019 campaign, there is plenty of scope for growth. The 22-year-old should receive greater opportunity for the Swans next season with a host of experienced players finishing and it could mean more midfield time for the accurate kicker – spending just 26 per cent of gametime there last year. He is certainly fit enough, winning both of the Swans’ 2km time-trials before Christmas. His rare DEF/FWD eligibility is another reason to get excited about this tantalising point-of-difference.

Blake Acres (Fremantle, $384.4k)
2019 average: 70.8 (19 matches)
Ownership: 1 per cent
One for the risk-takers. Like Greenwood, Acres was played out of position at his former club, spending 55 per cent of time as a forward in 2019. His scoring suffered as a result, slumping to his lowest season average since 2015. Acres began the 2018 season as a midfielder, averaging 106 points across the first five rounds. The 24-year-old is set to take up a midfield role at the Dockers and is set to fill the vacant wing spot left by runner Brad Hill.
“(Justin Longmuir) was pretty keen on the wing role for me and I was pretty happy with that,” Acres said in October after crossing to the club. Another to keep a close eye on the pre-season at that price.

 

[freowho]

Jordan Dawson (Sydney, $467.8k)
2019 average: 86.2 (20 matches)
Ownership: 8 per cent
Dawson impressed in a variety of roles last season and finished with an impressive return of 86.2 points per game. Considering Dawson had played five games before his eye-catching 2019 campaign, there is plenty of scope for growth. The 22-year-old should receive greater opportunity for the Swans next season with a host of experienced players finishing and it could mean more midfield time for the accurate kicker – spending just 26 per cent of gametime there last year. He is certainly fit enough, winning both of the Swans’ 2km time-trials before Christmas. His rare DEF/FWD eligibility is another reason to get excited about this tantalising point-of-difference.


Haven't heard anyone mention this.

 

[Bermi]

Jordan Dawson (Sydney, $467.8k)
2019 average: 86.2 (20 matches)
Ownership: 8 per cent
Dawson impressed in a variety of roles last season and finished with an impressive return of 86.2 points per game. Considering Dawson had played five games before his eye-catching 2019 campaign, there is plenty of scope for growth. The 22-year-old should receive greater opportunity for the Swans next season with a host of experienced players finishing and it could mean more midfield time for the accurate kicker – spending just 26 per cent of gametime there last year. He is certainly fit enough, winning both of the Swans’ 2km time-trials before Christmas. His rare DEF/FWD eligibility is another reason to get excited about this tantalising point-of-difference.
Haven't heard anyone mention this.

RE: ……….The 22-year-old should receive greater opportunity for the Swans next season with a host of experienced players finishing and it could mean more midfield time for the accurate kicker – spending just 26 per cent of gametime there last year...…...

I was considering including Dawson into my team with his Def/Fwd eligibility, but too many IFs for my liking.

 

[Presto]

KFC SuperCoach fallen premiums: Who will return to the top in 2020?

Don’t let one poor season put you off. Picking a player who has SuperCoach runs on the board has returned healthy dividends before, so who are the names to target in 2020?

Al Paton, Herald Sun

Subscriber only

February 2, 2020 3:28pm

Finding the next big thing occupies a large part of our pre-season KFC SuperCoach planning.

But sometimes the next big thing was the last big thing.

Or a big thing a few years ago.

Players are often overlooked or written off after one poor season, when there may be a good reason for a drop in form.

So-called “fallen premiums” — one-time elite SuperCoach scorers who have fallen out of favour — are a proven source of top-end SuperCoach scores — if you pick the right one.

Todd Goldstein is one of many case studies.

He was the dominant SuperCoach ruckman in 2015, averaging 128 points a game, but by 2017 his average had dropped to 95.

Last year he showed his full range of SuperCoach talents, rivalling Brodie Grundy and Max Gawn in the second half of the season.

Which players could return to the top in 2020?

The 10 listed below are all underpriced based on previous form. Even if you don’t have the guts to pick them in your SuperCoach Classic team, they could be fantastic under-the-radar selections in SuperCoach Draft.

Rory Laird (Adel) $525,800 DEF

The attacking Crows defender has been a reliable SuperCoach scorer for the past five seasons, but he produced his best numbers in 2018 when he averaged 108 points a game. Last year he couldn’t back it up, shedding more than 11 points from his average as his numbers dropped across the board.

Laird won four fewer disposals per game than in 2018 and recorded the lowest contested possession and intercept possession rates of his career. As a result he posted only four scores above 110 — down from 11 the year before.

Can he bounce back in 2020? A lot will depend on how the Crows play under new coach Matthew Nicks and after a player exodus that means Laird will have even more responsibility down back. But he has never had any problems finding the ball and it would be a shock if he went backwards again. Track his pre-season.

Sam Docherty (Carl) $436,100 DEF

The Blues co-captain falls into the category of premiums returning from injury — you can add Devon Smith, Dylan Roberton, Jack Steven and Tom Mitchell to the list (although he hasn’t fallen too far in terms of his SuperCoach price).

Docherty was the topscoring SuperCoach defender in 2017 when he averaged almost 115 points a game. It might be wishful thinking to hope he can score like that again after two years out of the game but he’s going to be in a lot of teams if he lines up in Round 1.

Jeremy Howe (Coll) $431,900 DEF

The high-flying Magpie’s 2019 SuperCoach average of 84 was his lowest since 2015. His disposal numbers, contested marks and intercept marks were all down, but the blame could lie with Collingwood’s shocking run with injuries in defence.

They meant Howe was forced to play on opposition key forwards 48 per cent of the time, leaving more defensive spoils and fewer spectacular leaps over the pack. If the Pies get a better run, he should be freed up to return to the 90-plus averages he recorded from 2016-19.

One unknown is the impact of Darcy Moore — is he stealing Howe’s points?

Chad Wingard (Haw) $412,300 FWD/MID

The former Port Adelaide star featured in SuperCoach discussions this time last year but he missed the start of the season, was scratched from SuperCoach sides and has seemingly been forgotten about since. That’s a mistake.

Wingard posted premium numbers in 2017 (average 93), 2015 (98) and 2013 (99 in just his second season in the AFL), so we know he’s capable. He’s had a year to find his feet at the Hawks and is set to enter 2020 injury-free (touch wood).

Hopes of a midfield role might be misplaced — last year he played further up the ground and the resulting drop in scoreboard impact (fewest goals and score assist since his debut season) impacted his SuperCoach return.

Sam Jacobs (GWS) $348,400 RUCK

Remember the glory days when the new Giants ruckman averaged 115.4 and was one of the premier ruckman in the league? That was back in 2014 and even we have to admit a return to a 115-point average is unlikely.

But Jacobs should see a spike in scoring after switching to GWS where he will be the No. 1 man in the ruck, having been overtaken in that role at Adelaide by upstart Reilly O’Brien.

One thing you can say about “Sauce”, he’s ultra reliable. Taking out last season, he played at least 20 matches every year since 2012. He’s also incredibly cheap compared to big name rucks Brodie Grundy and Max Gawn. But are you brave enough to start without one of them?

Tom Lynch (Rich) $388,800 FWD

Lynch would be pretty happy with his move to Punt Rd after claiming a premiership in his first season as a Tiger. But his SuperCoach numbers took a hit — his average of 71.6 was his lowest since 2013.

After virtually no pre-season, Lynch took a while to warm up but came home with a wet sail, averaging 99 from Round 17 to the Grand Final. That run included scores of 132, 149 and 47 — par for the course with key forwards. But this year there should be a lot more of the bigger numbers. Expect Lynch to challenge his personal-best season average of 93 in 2016, which would equate to a big price rise.

Dan Hannebery (StK) $417,000 MID

It would take guts to pick Hannebery after his injury-cursed start at St Kilda that restricted him to just five senior games. And he broke his foot falling down a set of stairs just after the season finished.

But if we set that aside for a moment to look at Hannebery’s SuperCoach history, you only have to go back to 2017 to find premium numbers (97). From 2014-16 he was one of the topscoring midfielders in the game. And when he did play last year his numbers weren’t shabby at all, topping 90 in four of those five matches with a high of 122.

You would want to be VERY confident about his body to take the punt, but it could pay off.

Michael Hurley (Ess) $432,900 DEF

Hurley averaged 90-plus from 2015-18 but his average fell to 79.7 last season. What made him a great SuperCoach pick was his ability to collect big disposal numbers while playing as a key backman, but that dried up as he averaged just 19 touches a game. His 6.8 intercept possessions were also his fewest as a defender.

Confidence in a bounce-back year isn’t high after his finish to 2019 when he averaged just 62 from Round 14, collecting 20-plus disposals in just one of his last seven games.

Sam Menegola (Geel) $441,700 MID

One stat illustrates Menegola’s struggles in 2019. After averaging a goal a game the previous year, he kicked just two for the entire season. A career-low scoring accuracy of 33 per cent didn’t help, but the former SuperCoach gun also recorded career-lows for disposals (19), contested possessions (eight), clearances (two), tackles (2), and SuperCoach points (82).

It’s easy to forget he was the second-most expensive forward last season after averaging 100 SuperCoach points the previous two seasons. Was 2019 just one bad year?

Bryce Gibbs (Adel) $375,100 MID

Remember when Gibbs was a must-have SuperCoach pick? He has averaged at least 100 in six seasons and over 90 as recently as 2018, but dropped off a cliff last season to finish with an average of 69.1 in 12 matches.

That has resulted in what looks like a crazy bargain, but his demotion to the SANFL came after recording his lowest disposal numbers since 2007, and the second-lowest contested possession rate of his career (28.3 per cent).

He will enter the season aged 31, and with an uncertain role under Matthew Nicks. You would have to be braver than me. If you are — good luck!

 

[Professor]

West Coast's Sheed eyes surviving squeeze

By: Justin Chadwick
Time published 2020-02-03 at 03:35 PM (GMT +11:00)

West Coast midfielder Dom Sheed says the arrival of former Cat Tim Kelly will give the team's engine room a different dimension.

DOM SHEED of the Eagles runs with the ball during the AFL match between the Carlton Blues and the West Coast Eagles at MCG in Melbourne, Australia. Picture: Daniel Pockett/AFL Media/Getty Images

The midfield squeeze is on at West Coast following the arrival of Tim Kelly, and grand final hero Dom Sheed is working hard to ensure he doesn't draw the short straw.

The Eagles will boast one of the best midfield units in 2020 after snaring Kelly in a bumper trade.

The former Cat will join an engine room featuring fellow AFL stars Luke Shuey, Andrew Gaff, and Elliot Yeo.

Sheed has also been an important part of the Eagles' midfield over the past 18 months, etching his name into AFL folklore by kicking the winning goal in the 2018 grand final.

But Sheed is well aware the arrival of Kelly will put extra pressure on midfield spots, and he's been working hard on his forward craft to ensure he isn't the one to get left out.

"We've got a lot of elite midfielders in our group and only so many can fit in," Sheed said.

"So to be able to either go back or forward as a midfielder helps you at selection time. Every mid these days needs to have another string to their bow."

Sheed kicked a career-high 16 goals last year to go with his 26.5 possessions per game, but he's not resting on his laurels.

The 24-year-old has been impressed by what he's seen from Kelly on the training track, and he can't wait to see the star midfielder in games.

"He definitely adds a different dynamic to our midfield that we needed," Sheed said.

"We've got the likes of Shuey and Yeo who are our bulls and explosive inside. Then you've got Tim Kelly who's that crafty smart midfielder who can sneak forward."

West Coast's premiership defence was ended by Geelong in a semi-final last year.

Eagles players are determined to make up for that early exit.

"We've probably got something to prove. We feel like we're better than what we produced last year," Sheed said.

Star defenders Jeremy McGovern and Tom Barrass are still working their way back to full fitness following foot injuries, while Willie Rioli is expected to miss the entire season while he waits his ASADA fate.

But spearhead Josh Kennedy is enjoying one of his best pre-seasons in years, fuelling hopes the veteran can turn back the clock in 2020.

 

[Professor]

Carlton forward Charlie Curnow’s knee injury worse than first thought

Already reeling from the likelihood of Charlie Curnow facing a longer stint on the sidelines, Carlton has rejected claims of double standards after the youngster wasn’t disciplined for drinking while injured.

Mark Robinson, Michael Warner, Herald Sun

Subscriber only

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February 3, 2020 8:00pm

HERALDSUN.COM.AU1:18

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Jonathan Brown names his best rookie picks in SuperCoach 2020

Why AFL can never match Super BowlAFLW clubs struggling for numbers

Carlton young gun Charlie Curnow may not play until the second half of the season.

The Blues conceded they don’t have a timeline for Curnow’s return.

The emerging star had an operation in November to repair a broken patella bone in his knee and has not started running.

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His brace has been removed and only recently started strength rehabilitation.

Initial prognosis said Curnow would be sidelined for three to four months, but that has been drastically reassessed to missing the first eight games and possibly the first half of the season.

“As we already communicated to our members and supporters last month, Charlie won’t be available for the start of the season,’’ Carlton head of football Brad Lloyd told the Herald Sun last night.

“This will likely mean a return to the field around the middle of the year.’’

The Curnow setback comes as the Blues defended a drinking session Curnow took part in at teammate Sam Docherty’s wedding on the Australia Day weekend.

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Several Carlton players were spoken to by club officials following the wedding about their alcohol consumption on the day, although no player was disciplined.

Coach David Teague and some assistants were at the wedding.

The Blues could be without Charlie Curnow for the first half of the season. Picture: AAP

The Blues have dismissed questions of double standards after the Silvagni brothers, Jack and Ben, were disciplined for drinking at a music festival while injured in November.

The club’s leadership group, headed by co captains Patrick Cripps and Docherty, imposed the sanctions on the brothers.

“The sanction imposed is based solely on the standards the player group are driving and will continue to do so,’’ Blues head of football Brad Lloyd said in November.

But the Blues stressed there was difference between the Silvagnis and Curnow and others because the brothers were drinking after suffering fresh injuries.

Jack had a back injury and Ben was battling a quad injury.

Curnow was permitted to drink because he was dealing with a long-term injury and alcohol would not affect his recovery.

Other players carrying injuries followed club protocol by not drinking at the Royal Botanic Gardens wedding.

Curnow, who turned 23 on Monday, played just 11 games last year because of injury and required an operation in October to correct the patella bone.

In November, the club said Curnow accidentally slipped on tiles while walking upstairs and sustained a separate fracture to his right patella.

“The recovery time for a fractured knee cap is typically 3-4 months,’’ Lloyd said at the time.

‘’It is unlikely he will be available for our pre-season games in late-February and early March.’’

The Blues fly to Queensland for a pre-season camp on Tuesday.

 

[Professor]

SuperCoach Rookie Bible: Every potential cash cow for season 2020

They are the lifeblood of SuperCoach, but filling our sides with cheapies before a game has been played in the pre-season is difficult. We have done the hard work for you. OVER 60 CASH COWS RATED.

Dan Batten, Herald Sun

Subscriber only

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February 4, 2020 7:30am

HERALDSUN.COM.AU1:18

Browny's top SuperCoach rookies

Jonathan Brown names his best rookie picks in SuperCoach 2020

Filling our KFC SuperCoach sides with cheapies before a game has been played in the pre-season is difficult.

With every team ‘burning up the track’ and completing their best pre-seasons yet, it is a tough ask predicting which fresh faces will be playing in Round 1 - let alone who will score well.

Thankfully, there are some rookies who have already shown their wares at AFL level that come at a bargain basement price for SuperCoach 2020.

Meanwhile, other potential candidates have impressed in U18 and state league competitions and are eyeing an early debut.

Here are the leading contenders before the Marsh Community Series kicks off.

ADELAIDE

Ned McHenry (123.9k) MID

Adelaide’s mass exodus should ensure McHenry gets ample senior opportunity, and looms as a likely Round 1 debutant. McHenry is a strong tackler as a pressure forward who can move into the midfield, with a back injury sidelining him for two months last year. He returned with aplomb in the SANFL finals series, including an impressive four goal haul in their semi-final

Verdict: Bench for now, but could be a possible field option.

Harry Schoenberg 117.3k MID

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Schoenberg was an impressive SuperCoach scorer at U18 level, averaging 122 points at the National Championships for South Australia and taking out their MVP award. Another who should benefit from their youth-first approach, but it’s a tough midfield to break into.

Verdict: Plenty to like, watch-list.

Ned McHenry (left) is closing in on a Round 1 debut. Picture: AAP

Billy Frampton $165.4k FWD

2019 average: 43.5 (2 games)

The tall crossed from Alberton to West Lakes in the trade period in search of opportunity, which he should get without Josh Jenkins there. The forward can also pinch-hit in the ruck, which could help him surpass his lean 43.5 point average from his two senior games last season.

Verdict: Assess his role and scoring in the pre-season given he is a high-priced rookie.

Fischer McAsey $184.4 DEF

McAsey played at both ends at under-18 level but is set to play as an intercept defender for the Crows. The No.6 draft pick has impressed in match simulation and new coach Matthew Nicks says he is in the frame for a Round 1 debut. The Phantom has set his sights on the talented youngster.

Verdict: The signs are pleasing – assess his scoring in the pre-season given his high price.

Ben Crocker 152k FWD

The former Pie received an AFL lifeline after being a surprise pick in last year’s rookie draft. Playing as a small forward at Collingwood, Crocker averaged less than 45 SuperCoach points in 26 games. Could a change of scenery see Crocker thrive?

Verdict: Pass.

Kieran Strachan $123.8k RUCK

Strachan is one step closer to a senior debut given Sam Jacobs is no longer ahead of him. If an injury strikes to No.1 ruck Reilly O’Brien, the mature bodied ruckman is likely to be called on.

Verdict: Barring injury, pass.

BRISBANE

Deven Robertson $117.3k MID

A SuperCoach gun of the future, Robertson broke Sam Walsh’s disposal record at the National Championships, averaging 30 disposals and 128 points. The issue will be sneaking into that stacked Lions midfield.

Verdict: A lock if playing, but it’s a big if.

Brandon Starcevich $147.7k DEF/MID

The young Lion is roaring entering his third season. Injury has kept him to five games since being taken with pick No.18 in 2017, but he has been one of Brisbane’s biggest improvers in the pre-season as he hunts a Round 1 berth.

Verdict: Chuck him on your bench if you have the cash.

Brock Smith $117.3k DEF

The tough defender has been given the No.1 guernsey for his first AFL season – could this mean an early debut? Smith averaged 101 points at NAB League level and should feature at some point during the year.

Verdict: One to look at in-season.

Ely Smith $123.9k FWD/MID

This young bull certainly has the size to make an impact at senior level and averaged 88 points in the NEAFL last season playing through the midfield and up forward. The 19-year-old faces a tough ask cracking into the Lions midfield.

Verdict: One to look at in-season.

Deven Robertson is a ball-magnet. Picture: Steve PohlnerCARLTON

Tom Williamson $146.3k

Williamson loomed as a potential cash cow last year at a slightly more expensive price, but scored a cumulative 77 points from two games before injury struck. If he can recapture the form he began his career with – averaging 68.8 points in his first four games – he is worth a look.

Verdict: His troublesome back and the return of Sam Docherty don’t bode well for his SuperCoach prospects.

 

[Professor]

COLLINGWOOD

Darcy Cameron $123.9k RUCK/FWD

Cameron joined the Pies during the trade period after playing one game in three seasons at the Swans. The Pies insisted at the time that Cameron could play forward in the same team as Brodie Grundy, but a forward line with both Cameron and giant Mason Cox seems unlikely. Nonetheless, he remains the leading ruck rookie option and has dual position status.

Verdict: One who could stake his claim in the pre-season – bench him for now.

Jay Rantall $117.3k MID

The former Australian junior basketballer thrived in his first year of full-time footy at U18 level, averaging 122 SuperCoach points in the NAB League as an inside midfielder. Rantall has taken out both of Collingwood’s pre-season time-trials and should score well if he cracks into the Pies midfield.

Verdict: Tough ask breaking into that side, but if he does he is very tempting.

Trent Bianco $117.3k DEF

Bianco was plucked much later than expected, with the Oakleigh Chargers’ captain taken by the Pies at pick No.45. The outside ball-winner is pinpoint with his disposal and averaged 18 disposals and 99 points per game at the National Championships.

Verdict: Like Rantall, the odds aren’t stacked in his favour. Watch-list.

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ESSENDON

Mitch Hibberd $114.4k MID

Hibberd loomed as one of the most profitable rookies until he was sidelined for six weeks with a knee injury, putting a Round 1 berth in doubt. He averaged 128 points per game in the VFL as an inside midfielder last season and could assist an area that is lacking at the Bombers.

Verdict: Pick him on your bench for now and assess his injury status closer to Round 1.

Mitch Hibberd remains a potential cash cow despite his setback.

Sam Draper $123.9k RUCK

The uncapped youngster, who rejected a 1.7 million four-year deal from St Kilda, is still recovering from an ACL setback but should break into the Bomber line-up at some point. Ruckman Tom Bellchambers is unlikely to make it through a full season and Andrew Phillips will need support.

Verdict: Possible bench option considering there is no standout ruck cash cow.

Brandon Zerk-Thatcher $189k DEF

Zerk-Thatcher made his AFL late last season but expect him to add more games to his tally this season. The tall defender averafed 78 points and just 7.4 intercept possessions in the VFL and may be in the selection frame if the Bombers decide to throw Cale Hooker forward.

Verdict: Intercept defenders are generally good scorers, but $189k is too much for a key defender. Pass

FREMANTLE

Stephen Hill $190.6k DEF/FWD

The standout cash cow in defence. The opportunity to pick a player who has surpassed an 85 season average on four occasions doesn’t come around often. Injury has been the prime concern in recent seasons, but an uninterrupted preparation (touch wood) will make him an a must-have.

Verdict: A lock barring injury and someone you can field with confidence.

Hayden Young $180.3k DEF

Less inviting than Stephen Hill, but this efficient intercept defender is someone we will get very familiar with in SuperCoach in the coming years. Young averaged 22 disposals and 107 points in the National Championships and is capable of playing an important role in the Dockers defence from the get-go.

Verdict: Should prove to be a reliable on-field option, and a Round 1 debut looms large.

Caleb Serong $175.8k MID

Serong is another Docker top-10 selection from last year’s draft with impressive SuperCoach potential. The 178cm product’s U18 numbers speak for themselves – averaging 139 points at the National Championships and 123 points in the NAB League as an inside midfielder and small forward. More likely to play as the latter early in his career.

Verdict: Has the tools, but 175.8k is a lot to pay for a small forward. Watch-list.

Liam Henry $171.3k FWD/MID

Liam Henry was one of the biggest draft bolters with the Dockers matching Carlton’s bid at pick No.9 for the exciting indigenous talent. While he provides plenty of spark up forward and could feature early doors, it will be tough for him to score well at the top level.

Verdict: Will need to have an impressive Marsh Community Series to justify his price.

Sam Sturt $123.9k

The 2018 first round draftee missed two months of football after suffering two concussions early in the last year. The athletic forward has added 5kg to his slender frame since joining the club and averaged 70.2 points in his 11 non-injury affected WAFL games in 2019. A favourite of expert Tim Michell.

Verdict: Should play a part at some point in 2020. Watch-list.

Lloyd Meek $123,900 RUCK

Back-up big man moves closer to an AFL debut with the retirement of Aaron Sandilands. Had 36 hitouts, 20 disposals, six marks, six tackles and two goals before being injured in a WAFL game last year. Dockers are talking up his pre-season and Sean Darcy and Rory Lobb both have had injury problems in the past.

Verdict: One to keep an eye on.

GOLD COAST

Izak Rankine $123.9k FWD

Rankine is yet to make his debut but there has been a buzz around the exciting forward since he was drafted with pick No.3 in 2018. The talent was cruelled by injury last season but his concerns appear to be behind him, with teammate Touk Miller saying he is in for a big year.

Verdict: Could be the top rookie of 2020. Must-have.

Matt Rowell $207.3k MID

Matt Rowell couldn’t have much more across his U18 career. Best on ground performances in both NAB League Grand Finals – including a Herculean 44 disposals, two goals and 266 points in their premiership game – and consistently dominant displays just about every time he takes the field. The hardened midfielder will take to the big league like a duck to water and will be an important cog in the Suns midfield from their first centre bounce of 2020.

Verdict: This year’s Sam Walsh. Just pick him.

Sam Flanders $162.3k FWD/MID

A potential top-five pick, Sam Flanders was one of the big sliders on draft night before the Suns pounced with a live trade. The strong-bodied youngster comes at a lower SuperCoach price as a result, and is another Suns draftee who wouldn’t look out of place at the top level, averaging 113 points in the National Championships.

Verdict: Not cheap by any means and likely to start as a forward. Watch-list.

Will Izak Rankine be the biggest money-maker in 2020?

Jez McLennan $123.9k DEF

The running defender was close to making his debut last season, averaging a tick under 15 disposals and 62 points at NEAFL level. Another pre-season should see the 19-year-old edge closer to a senior spot.

Verdict: Assess his progress in the Marsh Community Series. Possible bench option in defence.

Noah Anderson $202.8k MID

The best mate of Rowell, who joined him at the Suns with the very next selection, is also in line for a Round 1 appearance. His ability to impact up forward and in the middle will hold him in good stead, but appears more likely to start in attack early in his career. Averaged 28 disposals, two goals in 143 points in the NAB League last season.

Verdict: Worth a look, but it’s difficult to justify two top-priced midfield rookies.

Jeremy Sharp $117.3k, MID

Jeremy Sharp was one of three players over the past two years to earn duel U18 All Australian nods. The Suns gave up their mid-first round selection from 2020 to secure the smooth-moving wingman, suggesting they rate him highly.

Verdict: Another Sun to monitor.

 

[Professor]

GEELONG

Nakia Cockatoo $148.2k FWD/MID

Superstar Patrick Dangerfield gave Cockatoo a massive pre-season pump-up, saying the 23-year-old will be “one of the biggest differences” the Cats have in 2020. He also hinted at midfield time for the exciting talent, who has played just 12 games since 2017 due to several injury setbacks.

Verdict: Slot him on your field unless injury strikes.

Jacob Kennerley $123.9k DEF

The second year wingman has emerged as a Round 1 bolter following impressive running displays in the pre-season. Kennerley finished on the podium in a 15-minute pre-Christmas run, after averaging 65 points from 18 VFL games in 2019.

Verdict: Injuries to Joel Selwood and Mitch Duncan make him an interesting proposition.

Cooper Stephens $139.8k MID

The hardened draftee spent most of the year building up while recovering from a fractured leg, and finished the year with an equal-first finish in the yo-yo test at the draft combine. He averaged an impressive 100 points as a bottom-ager in the NAB League and thrives in the contest.

Verdict: One who could have a significant SuperCoach impact, watch-list.

Nathan Kreuger $123.9k FWD

The 20-year-old swingman suffered another setback after going under the knife in December but is no danger of missing Round 1. Cats assistant coach Corey Enright said they were looking to give him a taste of AFL footy after kicking 18 goals in 16 games in the VFL last season.

Verdict: Key position rookies generally aren’t reliable scorers, but a warm body is a warm body.

Nakia Cockatoo is one of the leading forward rookies. Picture: Peter RistevskiGWS

Lachie Ash $193.8k DEF

The No.4 selection in last year’s draft is blessed with pace to burn and provides X-Factor off half-back. It means he could be called on early despite the Giants set line up, and his U18 numbers stack up, averaging more than 100 points in the National Championships and the NAB League.

Verdict: Probably just behind Hill and Young in the defence rookie pecking order at this stage.

Tom Green $166.8k MID

Green has been earmarked as the next SuperCoach beast. A tall midfielder likened to Patrick Cripps, Green averaged a whopping 159 points in four NAB League games and managed to make his NEAFL senior debut last season. There is no doubting his ball-winning, it’ll be whether he can cement a spot in their best-22.

Verdict: He is a must-have if he defies the impossible and breaks into the Giants’ midfield.

Jye Caldwell $190.1k MID

The second year Giant presents as another expensive midfield rookie candidate. Caldwell got his senior opportunity in an injury-interrupted debut season, playing two games and averaging 50 points. Expect him to feature more prominently in 2020.

Verdict: Rowell remains the standout expensive midfield cash cow, but watch out for him in Marsh.

Jake Riccardi $117.3k FWD

Jake Riccardi is the latest Fothergill-Round-Mitchell medallist – awarded to the best young player in the VFL–– to be drafted. Winners of the award have proven to be solid scorers at AFL level, with Nic Newman, Luke Ryan and Kane Lambert among them. They 20-year-old key forward booted 38 goals in the VFL last year and averaged 63 points.

Verdict: His scoring is more likely to mirror the previous winner, Suns key forward Josh Corbett, who averaged a touch over 40 points last season. Will also be difficult to break in as a tall forward with the Giants’ stocks brimming.

HAWTHORN

Finn Maginnes $117.3k MID

Maginness has backed up his eye-catching draft combine results by dethroning perennial time-trial king Isaac Smith in their recent 2km heat. The midfielder has the physical attributes play at AFL level and averaged 94 points at the national carnival.

Verdict: A potential bench option if he performs in their practice games. Watch-list.

Jackson Ross $123.9k FWD

The livewire is edging ever closer to a senior debut after two seasons on the Hawthorn list. He recorded a 26-point jump in average in the VFL last year, going at 71 points per game and kicking 35 goals.

Verdict: Likely to be better options at his price, given he posted four scores of 40 or under last season.

MELBOURNE

Trent Rivers $117.3k DEF/MID

Trent Rivers could help the Demons’ kicking woes with the running defender going at 77 per cent efficiency at last year’s U18 carnival. The medium defender remains a chance to break into their best-22 early in the season, especially if he impresses in their practice games.

Verdict: Possible bench option and one to monitor closely in Marsh.

Kysaiah Pickett $157.8k FWD

The Demons rated the small forward enough to select him with their prized pick No.12, and he brings them something they lack – forward pressure and goal sense. Will feature early for that reason but don’t expect consistent scoring, amassing a score of 125 against the Allies at the National Championships but failing to pass 60 in his other two games at the carnival.

Verdict: Won’t score well enough to justify his inflated price-tag but boy, will he be exciting to watch. Pass.

Luke Jackson $198.3k RUCK

Ruckman aren’t normally taken in the top-10, but the Demons rated Luke Jackson highly enough to draft him with their prized No.3 pick. Jackson stocks rose significantly in his U18 year, averaging 14 touches, 36 hitouts and 110 points at the National Championships. The Dees insist he can play alongside Max Gawn.

Verdict: Could play early but 2020 will be a development year for the emerging ruck/forward. Pass.

Is Kysaiah Pickett worth the extra cash?NORTH MELBOURNE

Aiden Bonar $202.8k FWD

Stuck on the outer at the Giants, Aiden Bonar is set to receive greater opportunity at his new club. Bonar has played just six games in two seasons but has recorded season averages of 99 (2018) and 94 (2019) points in the NEAFL. If he is in the midfield, the $202.8k price-tag doesn’t look so daunting and skipper Jack Ziebell says he looks in “unreal shape.”

Verdict: Watch to see his midfield minutes during the pre-season.

Lachie Hosie $123.9k FWD

Taken by North Melbourne in the mid-season draft, Lachie Hosie was close to a debut in the back-half of last year following 20 goals in 10 games at VFL level. The high-leaping forward can impact in the air and at ground level and will be pressing for a Round 1 debut.

Verdict: Worth a look.

Charlie Comben $117.3k, FWD/RUCK

The draftee is in 16 per cent of teams, but it isn’t because he is burning up the track.

Verdict: Did somebody say loophole? His dual position status makes him the leading captaincy loophole option with no cheaper DPP ruck options.

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PORT ADELAIDE

Jackson Mead $117.3k MID

The father-son selection averaged an impressive 106 points for South Australia the under-18 national championships and is a likely Round 1 starter for the Power. Played predominately in the midfield as in the junior ranks but is expected to start as a forward at AFL level.

Verdict: Slot him on your midfield bench.

Miles Bergman $148.8k FWD

The Power’s first of their four top-25 picks, Bergman possesses great athleticism as a forward/midfielder. He posted four 120-plus totals at NAB League level and could feature in the Power side early given his X-Factor.

Verdict: Watch closely in the pre-season, but may be a touch pricey.

Wylie Buzza $142.3k FWD

Wylie Buza was traded to the Power after failing to play a game for Geelong in 2019. The 199cm forward has been known to pinch-hit in the ruck when required as well.

Verdict: Has scored more than 60 just once in his nine career games. Pass.

Aiden Bonar is now a Shin-Bonar.RICHMOND

Marlion Pickett $123.9k MID

Pickett would have been a standout cash cow even without his unforgettable Grand Final debut. A 28-year-old cheapie, who is set to spend most of his time in the midfield, is prime money-making material. He looms as the most lucrative rookie of 2020.

Verdict: A SuperCoach gift, given his 96-point Grand Final performance isn’t factored into his starting price.

Riley Collier-Dawkins $123.9k MID

Richmond’s first selection from the 2018 draft, Collier-Dawkins got better as the year wore on for their VFL side. The inside midfielder finished the year with 22 touches and 109 points in their Grand Final win, and his height will add something different to the Tigers midfield mix if he gets senior opportunity.

Verdict: Won 57.5 per cent of his possessions in a contest last season, which means he is another to add to the watch-list.

 

[Professor]

ST KILDA

Jack Bytel $123.9k MID

Like King, injury kept Bytel out of action in his debut AFL season. The tough midfielder averaged 115 points at NAB League level in 2018 and will be keen to prove himself after having little opportunity to do so.

Verdict: Looms as a potential bench option – watch-list.

Max King $123.9k FWD

St Kilda’s great white hope is tracking well after injury kept him out for most of last season, with new coach Brett Ratten keen to get games into him. Key forwards are generally no-go zones in SuperCoach but there are exceptions to the rule.

Verdict: One you can’t write off considering the former No.4 pick’s talent.

Marlion Pickett will be a popular SuperCoach pick. Picture: AAPSYDNEY

Will Gould $117.3k DEF

The Swans draftee is one of three back-to-back U18 All Australians from the latest draft crop, including Matt Rowell. Gould has an AFL-ready frame and excelled at SANFL level, taking the kick-ins for Glenelg and averaging 89 points per game. Has been compared to Eagles SuperCoach stud Shannon Hurn

Verdict: Expect him to grasp a spot in Sydney’s new-look side, but monitor his pre-season form.

Dylan Stephens $189.3k MID

Sydney’s No.5 draft pick Dylan Stephens proved he can match it with bigger bodies last season, playing 13 senior SANFL games and averaging 82 points. All signs are pointing towards an early debut for the Andrew Gaff-like midfielder, especially after claiming a recent Swans 2km time-trial.

Verdict: One to consider as an on-field rookie, and may be too good to ignore if he impresses in their practice matches.

Matt Ling $123.9k DEF

Matt Ling has had no luck since joining the Swans at the end of 2017, with injuries ruining his chances to prove himself for senior selection. The first round draftee has plenty of dash and entering his third year, should score better than others at his price.

Verdict: A promising Marsh Series could see him debut early. Watch-list

Chad Warner $117.3k MID

The ball-winning midfielder averaged a whopping 156 points per game in the WAFL Colts, with more 61.5 per cent of his possessions coming in a contest. A strong pre-season could see the inside midfielder get opportunity.

Verdict: Another to look at in Marsh considering those numbers.

New draftee Dylan Stephens has impressed at the Swans. Picture. Phil HillyardWESTERN BULLDOGS

Cody Weightman $144.3k FWD

Weightman has caught the eye during his first pre-season with teammate Jason Johannisen tipping an early debut for the high-leaping small forward. He averaged 80 points and 2.3 goals per game at the National Championships.

Verdict: May be a touch inconsistent like most forward rookies - watch-list.

Ben Cavarra $123.9k FWD

One of the pre-season favourite of 2019, Cavarra had an injury interrupted first season, playing just 12 matches and averaging 88 points in the VFL. He booted 65 goals for Williamstown the previous two seasons and should have a better chance of making an AFL breakthrough in 2020.

Verdict: If he looks to be a chance of debuting, jump on.

WEST COAST

Jarrod Brander $133k, DEF/FWD

The rookie well is fairly dry at the Eagles, but Jarrod Brander should get more senior opportunity in his third season. The 2017 first round draftee has played just three games with a high score of 36.

Verdict: The numbers speak for themselves. Pass.

 

[freowho]

Carlton forward Charlie Curnow’s knee injury worse than first thought

Already reeling from the likelihood of Charlie Curnow facing a longer stint on the sidelines, Carlton has rejected claims of double standards after the youngster wasn’t disciplined for drinking while injured.

Mark Robinson, Michael Warner, Herald Sun

Subscriber only

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February 3, 2020 8:00pm

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Carlton young gun Charlie Curnow may not play until the second half of the season.

The Blues conceded they don’t have a timeline for Curnow’s return.

The emerging star had an operation in November to repair a broken patella bone in his knee and has not started running.

Watch every match of the Marsh Community Series AFL pre-season comp LIVE & On-Demand on KAYO. New to Kayo? Get your 14-day free trial & start streaming instantly >

His brace has been removed and only recently started strength rehabilitation.

Initial prognosis said Curnow would be sidelined for three to four months, but that has been drastically reassessed to missing the first eight games and possibly the first half of the season.

“As we already communicated to our members and supporters last month, Charlie won’t be available for the start of the season,’’ Carlton head of football Brad Lloyd told the Herald Sun last night.

“This will likely mean a return to the field around the middle of the year.’’

The Curnow setback comes as the Blues defended a drinking session Curnow took part in at teammate Sam Docherty’s wedding on the Australia Day weekend.

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Several Carlton players were spoken to by club officials following the wedding about their alcohol consumption on the day, although no player was disciplined.

Coach David Teague and some assistants were at the wedding.

The Blues could be without Charlie Curnow for the first half of the season. Picture: AAP

The Blues have dismissed questions of double standards after the Silvagni brothers, Jack and Ben, were disciplined for drinking at a music festival while injured in November.

The club’s leadership group, headed by co captains Patrick Cripps and Docherty, imposed the sanctions on the brothers.

“The sanction imposed is based solely on the standards the player group are driving and will continue to do so,’’ Blues head of football Brad Lloyd said in November.

But the Blues stressed there was difference between the Silvagnis and Curnow and others because the brothers were drinking after suffering fresh injuries.

Jack had a back injury and Ben was battling a quad injury.

Curnow was permitted to drink because he was dealing with a long-term injury and alcohol would not affect his recovery.

Other players carrying injuries followed club protocol by not drinking at the Royal Botanic Gardens wedding.

Curnow, who turned 23 on Monday, played just 11 games last year because of injury and required an operation in October to correct the patella bone.

In November, the club said Curnow accidentally slipped on tiles while walking upstairs and sustained a separate fracture to his right patella.

“The recovery time for a fractured knee cap is typically 3-4 months,’’ Lloyd said at the time.

‘’It is unlikely he will be available for our pre-season games in late-February and early March.’’

The Blues fly to Queensland for a pre-season camp on Tuesday.

How can some of the best athletes in the country be so bloody hopeless at home? I am nowhere near as athletic as any of them but have never slipped on a stair or a tile or fallen over a dog!

 

[Spots]

AFL SuperCoach 2020: The Phantom’s rookie-priced midfielder guide
The Phantom, The Advertiser
February 4, 2020 11:02am
Subscriber only
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The key to SuperCoach success is nailing all of your rookie-price selections. The Phantom ranks potential cash cows in the midfield, excluding the dual-positions.

1. Marlion Pickett (Rich)
$123,900
The mature-age sensation finished third in the Norm Smith Medal voting last year after tallying 22 disposals, eight contested possessions, one goal and 96 SuperCoach points on debut in the grand final.
A week earlier, Pickett won the Norm Goss Medal as the best player on-the-ground in the VFL grand final after 20 disposals and 123 points.
THE PHANTOM’S VERDICT: The guy was almost the best player on the ground in the biggest game last year. And he’s available at rookie-price. What more do you need?

2. Matt Rowell (GC)
$207,300
Thought Sam Walsh had a good SuperCoach season in his first year? The output of this kid might be even better.
Like Walsh, Rowell has enjoyed a near-perfect junior career, dominating at all levels.
The strong-bodied, well-balanced midfielder averaged 32 disposals, 17 contested possessions and 171 SuperCoach points in the NAB League last season and 133 points for Vic Metro at the under-18 national carnival.
THE PHANTOM’S VERDICT: Justifying the hype at Gold Coast training so far and only sits behind Pickett given the starting price. But you should be picking them both.

3. Ned McHenry (Adel)
$123,900
In his draft year, McHenry applied five more tackles than any other player at the 2018 under-18 championships and 115 SuperCoach points per game in the TAC Cup.
The running machine’s impressive form continued in the SANFL last year, with McHenry averaging 21 disposals, six marks and five tackles per game in his first five games for the Crows’ reserves.
Then, in his second game after returning from a long-term back injury, McHenry finished with 17 disposals, four goals and 123 points in the semi-final.
THE PHANTOM’S VERDICT: It’s hard to see a new-look Crows side without him in it. A lock for your bench.

4. Jackson Mead (Port)
$117,300
At 184cm and 83kg – and with terrific versatility in his game – the father-son prospect is a strong chance to see early action at the Power in 2020.
A smart and skilful midfielder, who wins the ball at the contest and away from it, Mead averaged 21 disposals and 106 SuperCoach points for South Australia and 20 disposals, eight marks and 101 points for the Eagles at reserves level in the SANFL.
But Mead is also strong overhead and it’s his ability as a forward which is likely to see him in the Round 1 conversation.
THE PHANTOM’S VERDICT: An opening-round debut looms for the strong-bodied Mead, who’s impressed at Alberton over summer and might be worthy of an on-field spot.

5. Dylan Stephens (Syd)
$189,300
Despite his slight frame, the hard-running left-footer showed he can mix it with the big bodies, averaging 18 disposals and 82 SuperCoach points at senior level in the SANFL last year.
And, while he only played two matches, Stephens averaged 172 at reserves level.
The 18-year-old did his best work at junior level on the outside but he’s shown he’s clean and creative on the inside.
And his endurance is turning heads at the Swans already.
“We’ve got some fit players (but) he just took off and they couldn’t get near him. It was an impressive performance,” Isaac Heeney said of his new teammate’s recent time trial win.
“He has a pretty big weapon of a left foot too, which is extremely exciting. Hopefully he can jump straight in and do some damage for us.”
THE PHANTOM’S VERDICT: A favourite of mine in the SANFL, who could score well from the outset. Doing all the right things to be there in Round 1.

6. Jye Caldwell (GWS)
$190,100
The classy midfielder battled injury in his first season at the Giants, just as he did in the final two years of his junior career.
But, after impressive form in the NEAFL mid-year, Caldwell earnt a late call-up to the senior side in Round 21.
And it was an impressive debut, too, with the 19-year-old finishing with 13 disposals, six contested possession, six tackles, five marks and 73 points.
Caldwell played the following week before being sent back to the NEAFL to tally a combined 44 disposals and 23 tackles in the final two games.
THE PHANTOM’S VERDICT: He’ll be more ready than most of the first-year draftees.

7. Deven Robertson (Bris)
$117,300
SuperCoaches – and Brisbane – will be happy the WA under-18 captain slid to No. 22 on draft night.
Instead of being priced at $150k or more as a top-10 selection, Robertson, who broke Sam Walsh’s disposal record at the national carnival, is at the bottom-end of rookie-pricing. And the tough midfielder, who averaged 128 SuperCoach points for WA and 153 at WAFL Colts level, is ready.
THE PHANTOM’S VERDICT: A strong Lions midfield will be the only thing getting in his way – and it’s the only thing keeping him this far down the list. At this stage of the pre-season, anyway.

8. Mitch Hibberd (Ess)
$114,000
The 23-year-old failed to make it playing predominantly as a defender for North Melbourne but after being delisted at the end of last year, Hibberd turned himself into tall, big-bodied running midfielder in the VFL in 2019.
Playing for Williamstown, the 191cm Tasmanian averaged 24 disposals, seven tackles and 128 SuperCoach points per game to be named on a wing in the VFL’s team of the year.
And he fills a need at the Bombers.
THE PHANTOM’S VERDICT: Recent knee surgery has affected his Round 1 chances but it hasn’t ruined them. A top-five certainty here, otherwise.

9. Luke Valente (Freo)
$123,900
The 187cm, 81kg Valente is great by foot – on both sides of his body – and averaged 22 disposals and 118 SuperCoach points per game as South Australia’s under-18 captain in 2018.
Injury restricted the 19-year-old, who averaged 159 points at SANFL under-18 level in his draft year, to just seven WAFL league games last year but if his body stay sounds, Valente could get his first taste of senior action in 2020.
THE PHANTOM’S VERDICT: Expect the smart ball-winner to take is opportunity if he gets it. Watch closely over the Marsh Community Series.

10. Jack Bytel (StK)
$123,900
Back surgery wiped out the 189cm midfielder’s debut season but he’s fit and looks ready to make his mark at the Saints this year.
The No. 41 pick from the 2018 draft is a strong tackler, who can win the ball at the contest and away from it – three key contributors to SuperCoach scoring.
THE PHANTOM’S VERDICT: He’ll be on my bench if he’s picked.

 

[Spots]

11. Riley Collier-Dawkins (Rich)
$123,900
Richmond’s top pick from the 2018 draft – No. 20 overall – failed to break into the senior side last year but he impressed in 20 VFL matches. None more so than the grand final.
The 190cm midfielder, who boasts terrific speed away from the contested, was on of Richmond’s best, finishing with 15 disposals, nine contested possessions, six tackles and two goals in the win over Williamstown.
THE PHANTOM’S VERDICT: The 19-year-old has been turning heads at Tigers training over summer and has a game which suited to SuperCoach.

12. Caleb Serong (Freo)
$175,800
Serong, who has drawn comparison to Port Adelaide’s Robbie Gray, ranked fourth for clearances and fifth for contested possessions in the NAB League, where he averaged 129 points per game.
He’ll be a popular SuperCoach name in the future, but can he break into the Fremantle midfield during his debut season?
THE PHANTOM’S VERDICT: The other question is does he start his career in a forward pocket? A wait-and-see cash cow prospect.

13. Tom Green (GWS)
$166,800
After averaging 16.2 contested possessions per game at the 2019 under-18 national carnival – the most ever-recorded by Champion Data – and 111 points, Green is a SuperCoach star in the making.
But when the 18-year-old, who could develop into a Patrick Cripps-like midfielder, breaks into the Giants line-up remains to be seen.
THE PHANTOM’S VERDICT: Given his scoring power, you will want to start Green if he can force his way in to the Giants side. But it appears a big ‘if’ at this point.

14. Noah Anderson (GC)
$202,800
With Rowell a lock, can SuperCoaches really afford to pick the two most-expensive draftees?
It’s not usually part of the plan but Anderson might convince us otherwise over the pre-season.
The 188cm midfielder averaged 25 disposals and two goals in the NAB League this year, joining Tiger Jack Higgins, Brisbane’s Hugh McCluggage and Bomber Devon Smith as the only players to achieve this feat in the junior competition.
It’s no surprise, Anderson finished with a 143-point SuperCoach average.
THE PHANTOM’S VERDICT: A star-in-the-making, no doubt, but he’s unlikely to get the midfield minutes of best-mate Rowell at the Suns in his first year.

15. Finn Maginness (Haw)
$117,300
The father-son recruit knocked off Isaac Smith in last month’s 2km time trial, ending the 31-year-old’s five-year reign as the Hawks’ best runner.
But he’s not just an endurance athlete, Maginness, who averaged 21 disposals, five tackles and 113 points in the NAB League last year, has the body to step straight into senior footy in 2020.
THE PHANTOM’S VERDICT: High on the Marsh Series watchlist after an impressive first pre-season. Might rise in this list over the next month.

16. Cooper Stephens (Geel)
$139,800
The strong-bodied midfielder spent the second-half of 2018 working his way back to full fitness after breaking his leg in April. And the 18-year-old was in terrific condition when he arrived at pre-season training, putting him in the frame for an opportunity in the Marsh Community Series.
Stephens, a 188cm inside midfielder, averaged 100 SuperCoach points per game in the NAB League in 2018 and will be ready to step up if there’s an opening at Geelong.
THE PHANTOM’S VERDICT: Big scoring potential but it’s a tough midfield to break into, especially when you haven’t played a competitive game since April last year.

17. Harry Schoenberg (Adel)
$117,300
It might be a similar story for Schoenberg at the Crows.
But, given a need for a refresh in the middle, the Croweater, who averaged 27 disposals, five marks, five tackles and 122 SuperCoach points at the national carnival, will be around the mark early.
His hands are brilliant at the contest and Schoenberg, who averaged 128 points at SANFL under-18 level, also wins plenty of football on the spread.
THE PHANTOM’S VERDICT: Expect Schoenberg to pop up during the year – hopefully around downgrade time.

18. Brayden Sier (Coll)
$242,700
In the first eight games of his career — in his third year on the list — Sier averaged 19 disposals, an elite 11 contested possessions, four clearances, five tackles, four inside 50s and 80 SuperCoach points per game.
The 191cm midfielder became the fourth player on record to tally more than 100 contested and uncontested possessions in his first 10 games.
But 2019 was a different story. Sier spent the first part of year in the VFL, before finishing with 103 SuperCoach points in his first senior appearance in Round 12. He then hurt his calf and played social basketball while injured. It was a year to forget.
THE PHANTOM’S VERDICT: With uncertainty still surrounding Dayne Beams, there might be a spot for Sier – who just scraps in to the rookie-price bracket – in 2020. But he would need to prove his scoring justifies the added expense.

19. Chad Warner (Syd)
$117,300
The midfielder with a huge appetite for the contest, who averaged a huge 156 SuperCoach points per game at WAFL Colts level in 2019, might get a chance to push his case over summer.
THE PHANTOM’S VERDICT: Warner might surprise – keep him on the watchlist for later in the year.

20. Jay Rantall (Coll)
$117,300
After an impressive junior basketball career, Rantall is, relatively, new to footy but he’s wasted little time making his mark at Collingwood, winning both of the club’s 2km time trials over the pre-season.
And, after averaging 122 points at NAB League level last year, he might make his mark on this game soon, too.
THE PHANTOM’S VERDICT: Given the strength of the Collingwood side and Rantall’s ongoing development, a debut still seems some way off. But he should score well when it does come.

 

[Professor]

Hawthorn injury update: Mitch Lewis, Tom Mitchell back in full training, updates on Jarman Impey and Jack Gunston

Sports Now: Around the grounds

Michael Randall

Herald Sun

Subscriber only

February 5, 2020 2:33pm

Young gun forward Mitchell Lewis will tackle season 2020 without the shoulder issues that forced him to have surgery at the end of last year’s breakout campaign.

Brownlow medallist Tom Mitchell, who suffered a horror broken leg last pre-season and missed the entirety of 2019, is also back in full contact work and has been involved in match simulation, while the Hawks say stars Jarman Impey and Jack Gunston are progressing well after surgery.

Mitchell Lewis is ready to take the next step after recovering from off-season shoulder surgery. Picture: Michael Klein

“Mitch had shoulder surgery post-season last year,” physical performance manager Luke Boyd said.

“He spent the Christmas period avoiding contact from the other players and then since returning he’s been able to integrate back into full game play.”

Lewis, 21, emerged in his second season as a tall forward with a vice-like grip who booted 20 goals in 12 games last year.

He will hope Mitchell can get back to his best, extracting the footy to allow the Hawks outside runners to give him silver service.

“Similar to Mitch Lewis, he was non-contact-based before Christmas but, since returning he’s been integrating back into full-contact work and was able to get 30 minutes of game-play with the boys on Wednesday (last week) and looked good, looked comfortable,” Boyd told the club’s website.

Tom Mitchell looks the part, but can he deliver after his horror leg break? Picture: Ian Currie

MORE AFL:

Exciting turning point in Mitchell comeback

“If anything, we’re probably trying to make sure he doesn’t push himself too much at this stage because we still have a number of weeks before we start the season.”

Impey, who, in Round 18, wrecked his ACL against Geelong, and Gunston, who required ankle surgery in the off-season, are still working toward full training.

“Jars has been running on land for just over three weeks now,” Boyd said.

“I would say he’s started transitioning into that performance running mode now, which is a good sign, and I know that this morning he looked really, really impressive on the training track so we’re really happy with how he’s progressed.

“Unfortunately, Jack required a minor clean up of the ankle just before Christmas. He’s progressed well since then, he’s commenced running and we will start to build that over the next three weeks.

“We’re hoping that somewhere around three-four weeks he will be back in the ball program and we’ll progress him from there.”

Impey suffered a horrible knee injury late last season. Picture: Getty Images

Oft-injured former Giant Tom Scully runs into a pre-season with no issues, while Dylan Moore’s troublesome groin is still three-four weeks away.

Boyd hailed the new brigade of youngsters who have made their homes at Waverley as “exceptional”.

“It’s well documented in the last couple of days that Finn (Maginness) ran an impressive time trial, Emerson Jeka, Harry Pepper, Josh Morris and Will Day have integrated into our program for the first time really, really well and they’re a really good group of boys so we’re rapt to have them here,” he said.

 

[Professor]

How KFC SuperCoach prices are calculated — and how to use that to your advantage

Browny's top SuperCoach midfielders

Paul Dunn

Herald Sun

February 5, 2020 9:41am

Looking at a blank field after signing up for KFC SuperCoach is filled with possibilities.

We all start with dreams of picking a team filled with high-scoring stars, but quickly find a $10 million salary cap for a squad of 30 players doesn’t go far enough!

So how do you pick a team full of premium scorers, you ask? By selecting players who will rise in value and trading your way up to the best players in the league.
ding: 0px !important; display: block; height: 250px; ead on to find out how prices are calculated, why they change and how to use this knowledge when picking your starting squad.

STARTING VALUE

The value of every player before the season starts is determined by a few factors, but the main one is their average score from the previous year. That average is multiplied by what is known as the “magic number” to get their starting price.

For example, Brodie Grundy averaged 130 last year and when we multiply that by this year’s starting magic number of 5430, this gets us his price of $705,900. For guys who played more than 10 games last season this formula will hold true.

EXPLAINED: HOW SUPERCOACH SCORING WORKS

But players who played only a few games, and those that missed all of last season, get a discount on their starting price based on previous averages. A great example of this is Tom Mitchell, who has had a season off with his broken leg. His price is based on his average from 2018 but has a discount applied to get to this year’s price of $630,900.

Jackson Macrae doesn’t come cheap in SuperCoach.

Rookies have their own pricing methodology. No. 1 draft pick Matt Rowell has been allocated a price of $207,300, with the prices of other draft picks reducing until they get down to the base price of $117,300. The only players cheaper are those on the rookie list who are priced at $102,400.

It is these cheaper players we need to fill our teams with and watch them rise in value so we can trade them for more stars.

WEEKLY PRICE MOVEMENTS

Once a player has played two games their price will change after every game they play after that. Think of it like the stock market, the better they perform the more their price rises — and if they don’t perform, their price will drop.

The key number that determines the price movement is known as the “Break Even”. A player’s Break Even score is determined by using a rolling average over their previous three games. If the player scores exactly that score in their next game then they will remain at their current price, if they exceed it then they rise, and if they don’t make it they drop in value.

A score only stays in a player’s price cycle for three weeks. You can predict what will happen to a player’s score by watching their break evens.

Tom Mitchell (left) has received a price discount after missing a year with injury. Picture: Ian Currie

Break Even scores are available to subscribers to SuperCoach Stats. This is a key piece of information as we try to maximise our value to allow for upgrading our team. The Break Even is critical when we are valuing our rookies and deciding when they need to be traded out. Once their Break Even score reaches their average then they will stall in price and it is time to move them on.

There are some players whose price movements we don’t worry about. They are our keepers. If you aren’t going to trade the player from your team, for example Brodie Grundy or Nat Fyfe, then we don’t worry about what their price is doing nor what their break-even is because they aren’t being used to generate money to be upgraded like a rookie.

TRADE STRATEGY

It’s great to see premium-like scoring from a rookie in our SuperCoach teams but the reality is these younger players won’t produce the scores we need every week, especially later in the season when draftees get tired (even Sam Walsh averaged 93 over the first 12 rounds last year and 79.5 after that). Their main role is to generate as much cash as possible to make the best possible trades. When planning these trades, timing is everything.

Take Connor Rozee last season. We saw him start at $189,300 with a promise of games from Ken Hinkley. His first three games averaged 89 points and as a result his Break Even score dropped to -48! In Round 4 he scored 53 and his price jumped by more than $45,000.

As the season progressed his average stabilised around 75-80, and his Break Even started to climb. After Round 10 he had a Break Even of 57 and scored 66 to rise in value by $12,100, but in Round 11 his Break Even rose to 99. He had reached a key moment for SuperCoach rookies as his Break Even score was higher than his season average for the first time. Valued at $412,400, this was the ideal time to trade him out to maximise cash generation.

Connor Rozee was a great pick last year — especially if you traded him out at the right time. Picture: Sarah Reed

Who should we trade him to? Keen SuperCoach players are not only watching their rookies rise in value, but keeping an eye out for proven scorers who have dropped in price due to injury or perhaps a heavy tag.

In the case of Rozee, the stars aligned with GWS star Stephen Coniglio, who had bottomed out in price the same week Rozee was ripe for trading. Coniglio had a Break Even of 22 ($78k cheaper than his starting price), while Scott Pendlebury had a Break Even of 49 ($10k cheaper than starting price), making both prime upgrade targets (if you need further proof of this strategy, Rozee scored 65 the next week and Coniglio scored 207!).

HOW DO WE USE THIS INFORMATION?

All of this information is used to continually improve the value of our team by upgrading our players. The preferred method of picking a team by SuperCoach purists is to a “guns and rookies” approach. That is, picking a number of expensive guns and fill out the remainder of the team with rookie-priced players.

MORE SUPERCOACH TIPS:

SuperCoach 2020: Our great black-and-white hope in the ruck

SuperCoach: How much will Bennell cost?

How to pick a winning SuperCoach team

Five tips before you pick a SuperCoach team

Crazy or genius? No Dusty in my SuperCoach side

We then use the Break Evens and price movements to trade these guys out when they top out in value to bring in another gun player to the team.

As the season progresses you will start to see these trends emerge and they are what we use to have a fully upgraded side of premium players to lead your attack on the back half of the season and the SuperCoach finals.

 

[Presto]

SuperCoach Rookie Bible: Every potential cash cow for season 2020

Getting your cheap players right is the key to SuperCoach success, but identifying the best options isn’t easy. We’ve taken a close look at all the rookies and found the best young guns. OVER 60 CASH COWS RATED

Dan Batten, Herald Sun

Subscriber only

|

February 5, 2020 11:45am

Filling our KFC SuperCoach sides with cheapies before a game has been played in the pre-season is difficult.

With every team “burning up the track” and completing their best pre-seasons yet, it is a tough ask predicting which fresh faces will be playing in Round 1 — let alone who will score well.

Thankfully, there are some rookies who have already shown their wares at AFL level that come at a bargain basement price for SuperCoach 2020.

Meanwhile, other potential candidates have impressed in Under-18 and state league competitions and are eyeing an early debut.

Here are the leading contenders before the Marsh Community Series kicks off.

ADELAIDE

Ned McHenry $123,900 MID

Adelaide’s mass exodus should ensure McHenry gets ample senior opportunity, and he looms as a likely Round 1 debutant. McHenry is a strong tackler as a pressure forward who can move into the midfield, with a back injury sidelining him for two months last year. He returned with aplomb in the SANFL finals series, including an impressive four-goal haul in a semi-final.

Verdict: Bench for now, but could be a possible field option.

Harry Schoenberg $117,300 MID

Schoenberg was an impressive SuperCoach scorer at Under-18 level, averaging 122 points at the national championships for South Australia and taking out their MVP award. Another who should benefit from their youth-first approach, but it’s a tough midfield to break into.

Verdict: Plenty to like. Watch-list.

Billy Frampton $165,400 FWD

2019 average: 43.5 (2 games)

The tall crossed from Alberton to West Lakes in the trade period in search of opportunity, which he should get without Josh Jenkins there. The forward can also pinch-hit in the ruck, which could help him surpass his lean 43.5 point average from his two senior games last season. Posted scores of 141, 145, 167 and 175 in the SANFL.

Verdict: Assess his role and scoring in the pre-season given he is a high-priced rookie.

Fischer McAsey $184,400 DEF

McAsey played at both ends at under-18 level but is set to play as an intercept defender for the Crows. The No.6 draft pick has impressed in match simulation and new coach Matthew Nicks says he is in the frame for a Round 1 debut. The Phantom has set his sights on the talented youngster.

Verdict: The signs are pleasing – assess his scoring in the pre-season given his high price.

Ben Crocker $152,000 FWD

The former Pie received an AFL lifeline after being a surprise pick in last year’s rookie draft. Playing as a small forward at Collingwood, Crocker averaged less than 45 SuperCoach points in 26 games. Could a change of scenery see Crocker thrive?

Verdict: Pass.

Kieran Strachan $123,800 RUCK

Strachan is one step closer to a senior debut given Sam Jacobs is no longer ahead of him. If an injury strikes to No.1 ruck Reilly O’Brien, the mature bodied ruckman is likely to be called on.

Verdict: Barring injury, pass.

Brisbane Lions

Deven Robertson $117,300 MID

A SuperCoach gun of the future, Robertson broke Sam Walsh’s disposal record at the under-18 national championships, averaging 30 disposals and 128 points. The issue will be sneaking into that stacked Lions midfield.

Verdict: A lock if playing, but it’s a big if.

Brandon Starcevich $147,700 DEF/MID

The young Lion is roaring entering his third season. Injury has kept him to five games since being taken with pick No.18 in the 2017 draft, but he has been one of Brisbane’s biggest improvers in the pre-season as he hunts a Round 1 berth.

Verdict: Chuck him on your bench if you have the cash.

Brock Smith $117,300 DEF

The tough defender has been given the No.1 guernsey for his first AFL season – could this mean an early debut? Smith averaged 101 points at NAB League level and should feature at some point during the year.

Verdict: One to look at in-season.

Ely Smith $123,900 FWD/MID

This young bull certainly has the size to make an impact at senior level and averaged 88 points in the NEAFL last season playing through the midfield and up forward. The 19-year-old faces a tough ask cracking into the Lions midfield.

Verdict: One to look at in-season.

Carlton

Tom Williamson $146,300 DEF

Williamson loomed as a potential cash cow last year at a slightly more expensive price, but scored a cumulative 77 points from two games before injury struck. If he can recapture the form he began his career with – averaging 68.8 points in his first four games – he is worth a look.

Verdict: His troublesome back and the return of Sam Docherty don’t bode well for his SuperCoach prospects.

Collingwood

Darcy Cameron $123,900 RUCK/FWD

Cameron joined the Magpies during the trade period after playing one game in three seasons at the Swans. The Pies insisted at the time that Cameron could play forward in the same team as Brodie Grundy, but a forward line with both Cameron and giant Mason Cox seems unlikely. Nonetheless, he remains the leading ruck rookie option and has dual position status.

Verdict: One who could stake his claim in the pre-season – bench him for now.

Jay Rantall $117,300 MID

The former Australian junior basketballer thrived in his first year of full-time footy at U18 level, averaging 122 SuperCoach points in the NAB League as an inside midfielder. Rantall has taken out both of Collingwood’s pre-season time-trials and should score well if he cracks into the Pies midfield.

Verdict: Tough ask breaking into that side, but if he does he is very tempting.

Trent Bianco $117,300 DEF

Bianco was plucked much later than expected on draft night, with the Oakleigh Chargers’ captain taken by the Pies at pick No.45. The outside ball-winner is pinpoint with his disposal and averaged 18 disposals and 99 points per game at the national championships.

Verdict: Like Rantall, the odds aren’t stacked in his favour. Watch list.

Essendon

Mitch Hibberd $114,400 MID

Hibberd loomed as one of the most profitable rookies until he was sidelined for six weeks with a knee injury, putting a Round 1 berth in doubt. He averaged 128 points per game in the VFL as an inside midfielder last season and could assist an area that is lacking at the Bombers.

Verdict: Pick him on your bench for now and assess his injury status closer to Round 1.

Sam Draper $123.9,00 RUCK

The uncapped youngster, who rejected a $1.7 million four-year deal from St Kilda, is still recovering from an ACL setback but should break into the Bomber line-up at some point. Ruckman Tom Bellchambers is unlikely to make it through a full season and Andrew Phillips will need support.

Verdict: Possible bench option considering there is no standout ruck cash cow.

Brandon Zerk-Thatcher $189,000 DEF

Zerk-Thatcher made his AFL late last season but expect him to add more games to his tally this year. The tall defender averaged 78 points and 7.4 intercept possessions in the VFL and may be in the selection frame if the Bombers decide to throw Cale Hooker forward.

Verdict: Intercept defenders are generally good scorers, but $189k is too much for a key defender. Pass

 

[Presto]

FREMANTLE

Stephen Hill $190,600 DEF/FWD

The standout cash cow in defence. The opportunity to pick a player who has surpassed an 85 season average on four occasions doesn’t come around often. Injury has been the prime concern in recent seasons, but an uninterrupted preparation (touch wood) will make him an a must-have.

Verdict: A lock barring injury and someone you can field with confidence.

Hayden Young $180,300 DEF

Less inviting than Hill, but this efficient intercept defender is someone we will get very familiar with in SuperCoach in the coming years. Young averaged 22 disposals and 107 points in the national championships and is capable of playing an important role in the Dockers defence from the get-go.

Verdict: Should prove to be a reliable on-field option, and a Round 1 debut looms large.

Caleb Serong $175,800 MID

Serong is another Docker top-10 selection from last year’s draft with impressive SuperCoach potential. The 178cm product’s U18 numbers speak for themselves – averaging 139 points at the national championships and 123 points in the NAB League as an inside midfielder and small forward. More likely to play as the latter early in his career.

Verdict: Has the tools, but 175.8k is a lot to pay for a small forward. Watch list.

Liam Henry $171,300 FWD/MID

Henry was one of the biggest draft bolters with the Dockers matching Carlton’s bid at pick No.9 for the exciting indigenous talent. While he provides plenty of spark up forward and could feature early doors, it will be tough for him to score well at the top level.

Verdict: Will need to have an impressive Marsh Community Series to justify his price.

Sam Sturt $123,900 FWD

The 2018 first round draftee missed two months of football after suffering two concussions early in the last year. The athletic forward has added 5kg to his slender frame since joining the club and averaged 70.2 points in his 11 non-injury affected WAFL games in 2019. A favourite of expert Tim Michell.

Verdict: Should play a part at some point in 2020. Watch-list.

Lloyd Meek $123,900 RUCK

Back-up big man moves closer to an AFL debut with the retirement of Aaron Sandilands. Had 36 hitouts, 20 disposals, six marks, six tackles and two goals before being injured in a WAFL game last year. Dockers are talking up his pre-season and Sean Darcy and Rory Lobb both have had injury problems in the past.

Verdict: One to keep an eye on.

GOLD COAST

Izak Rankine $123,900 FWD

Rankine is yet to make his debut but there has been a buzz around the exciting forward since he was drafted with pick No.3 in 2018. The talent was cruelled by injury last season but his concerns appear to be behind him, with teammate Touk Miller saying he is in for a big year.

Verdict: Could be the top rookie of 2020. Must-have.

Matt Rowell $207,300 MID

Rowell couldn’t have much more across his U18 career. Best on ground performances in both his NAB League Grand Finals – including a Herculean 44 disposals, two goals and 266 points in this year’s premiership decider – and consistently dominant displays just about every time he takes the field. The hardened midfielder will take to the big league like a duck to water and will be an important cog in the Suns midfield from their first centre bounce of 2020.

Verdict: This year’s Sam Walsh. Just pick him.

Sam Flanders $162,300 FWD/MID

A potential top-five pick, Sam Flanders was one of the big sliders on draft night before the Suns pounced with a live trade. The strong-bodied youngster comes at a lower SuperCoach price as a result, and is another Suns draftee who wouldn’t look out of place at the top level, averaging 113 points in the national championships.

Verdict: Not cheap by any means and likely to start as a forward. Watch list.

Jez McLennan $123,900 DEF

The running defender was close to making his debut last season, averaging a tick under 15 disposals and 62 points at NEAFL level. Another pre-season should see the 19-year-old edge closer to a senior spot.

Verdict: Assess his progress in the Marsh Community Series. Possible bench option in defence.

Noah Anderson $202,800 MID

The best mate of Rowell, who joined him at the Suns with the very next selection, is also in line for a Round 1 appearance. His ability to impact up forward and in the middle will hold him in good stead, but appears more likely to start in attack early in his career. Averaged 28 disposals, two goals in 143 points in the NAB League last season.

Verdict: Worth a look, but it’s difficult to justify two top-priced midfield rookies.

Jeremy Sharp $117,300 MID

Sharp was one of three players over the past two years to earn duel U18 All-Australian nods. The Suns gave up their mid-first round selection from 2020 to secure the smooth-moving wingman, suggesting they rate him highly.

Verdict: Another Sun to monitor.

 

[Presto]

GEELONG

Nakia Cockatoo $148,200 FWD/MID

Superstar Patrick Dangerfield gave Cockatoo a massive pre-season pump-up, saying the 23-year-old will be “one of the biggest differences” the Cats have in 2020. He also hinted at midfield time for the exciting talent, who has played just 12 games since 2017 due to several injury setbacks.

Verdict: Slot him on your field unless injury strikes.

Jacob Kennerley $123,900 DEF

The second-year wingman has emerged as a Round 1 bolter following impressive running displays in the pre-season. Kennerley finished on the podium in a 15-minute pre-Christmas run, after averaging 65 points from 18 VFL games in 2019.

Verdict: Injuries to Joel Selwood and Mitch Duncan make him an interesting proposition.

Cooper Stephens $139,800 MID

The hardened draftee spent most of the year building up while recovering from a fractured leg, and finished the year with an equal-first finish in the yo-yo test at the draft combine. He averaged an impressive 100 points as a bottom-ager in the NAB League and thrives in the contest.

Verdict: One who could have a significant SuperCoach impact, watch list.

Nathan Kreuger $123,900 FWD

The 20-year-old swingman suffered another setback after going under the knife in December but is no danger of missing Round 1. Cats assistant coach Corey Enright says the Cats are looking to give him a taste of AFL footy after kicking 18 goals in 16 games in the VFL last season.

Verdict: Key-position rookies generally aren’t reliable scorers, but a warm body is a warm body.
GWS GIANTS

Lachie Ash $193,800 DEF

The No.4 selection in last year’s draft is blessed with pace to burn and provides X-Factor off half-back. It means he could be called on early despite the Giants set line up, and his U18 numbers stack up, averaging more than 100 points in the national championships and the NAB League.

Verdict: Probably just behind Hill and Young in the defence rookie pecking order at this stage.

Tom Green $166,800 MID

Green has been earmarked as the next SuperCoach beast. A tall midfielder likened to Patrick Cripps, Green averaged a whopping 159 points in four NAB League games and managed to make his NEAFL senior debut last season. There is no doubting his ball-winning ability, the question is whether he can cement a spot in their best 22.

Verdict: He is a must-have if he defies the impossible and breaks into the Giants’ midfield.

Jye Caldwell $190,100 MID

The second-year Giant presents as another expensive midfield rookie candidate. Caldwell got his senior opportunity in an injury-interrupted debut season, playing two games and averaging 50 points. Expect him to feature more prominently in 2020.

Verdict: Rowell remains the standout expensive midfield cash cow, but watch out for him in Marsh.

Jake Riccardi $117,300 FWD

Riccardi is the latest Fothergill-Round-Mitchell medallist – awarded to the best young player in the VFL–– to be drafted. Winners of the award have proven to be solid scorers at AFL level, with Nic Newman, Luke Ryan and Kane Lambert among them. They 20-year-old key forward booted 38 goals in the VFL last year and averaged 63 points.

Verdict: His scoring is more likely to mirror the previous winner, Suns key forward Josh Corbett, who averaged a touch over 40 points last season. Will also be difficult to break in as a tall forward with the Giants’ stocks brimming.

HAWTHORN

Finn Maginnes $117,300 MID

Maginness has backed up his eye-catching draft combine results by dethroning perennial time-trial king Isaac Smith in their recent 2km heat. The midfielder has the physical attributes play at AFL level and averaged 94 points at the national carnival.

Verdict: A potential bench option if he performs in their practice games. Watch-list.

Jackson Ross $123,900 FWD

The livewire is edging ever closer to a senior debut after two seasons on the Hawthorn list. He recorded a 26-point jump in average in the VFL last year, going at 71 points per game and kicking 35 goals.

Verdict: Likely to be better options at his price, given he posted four scores of 40 or under last season.

MELBOURNE

Trent Rivers $117,300 DEF/MID

Rivers could help the Demons’ kicking woes with the running defender going at 77 per cent efficiency at last year’s U18 carnival. The medium defender remains a chance to break into their best-22 early in the season, especially if he impresses in their practice games.

Verdict: Possible bench option and one to monitor closely in Marsh.

Kysaiah Pickett $157,800 FWD

The Demons rated the small forward enough to select him with their prized pick No.12, and he brings them something they lack – forward pressure and goal sense. Will feature early for that reason but don’t expect consistent scoring, amassing a score of 125 against the Allies at the National Championships but failing to pass 60 in his other two games at the carnival.

Verdict: Won’t score well enough to justify his inflated price-tag but boy, will he be exciting to watch. Pass.

Luke Jackson $198,300 RUCK

Ruckman aren’t normally taken in the top 10 on draft night, but the Demons swooped on Jackson at pick 3. His stocks rose significantly in his U18 year, averaging 14 touches, 36 hitouts and 110 points at the national championships. The Dees insist he can play alongside Max Gawn.

Verdict: Could play early but 2020 will be a development year for the emerging ruck/forward. Pass.

Harley Bennell $123,900 MID

Former Docker and Sun gets another AFL lifeline as a rookie at Melbourne. Has shown he can score, averaging 101.7 in his last full season. The problem is that was four years ago, and he has played just two games since due to a series of calf injuries. Dees will take a cautious approach but they must think he’s a chance to play.

Verdict: Massive risk but if he gets games the temptation will be huge.

 

[Presto]

NORTH MELBOURNE

Aiden Bonar $202,800 FWD

Stuck on the outer at the Giants, Bonar is set to receive greater opportunity at his new club. Bonar has played just six games in two seasons but has recorded season averages of 99 (2018) and 94 (2019) points in the NEAFL. If he is playing in the Kangaroos midfield, the $202.8k price tag doesn’t look so daunting and skipper Jack Ziebell says he looks in “unreal shape”.

Verdict: Watch to see his midfield minutes during the pre-season.

Lachie Hosie $123,900 FWD

Taken by North Melbourne in the mid-season draft, Hosie was close to a debut in the back half of last year following 20 goals in 10 games at VFL level. The high-leaping forward can impact in the air and at ground level and will be pressing for a Round 1 debut.

Verdict: Worth a look.

Charlie Comben $117,300 FWD/RUCK

The draftee is in 16 per cent of teams, but it isn’t because he is burning up the track.

Verdict: Did somebody say loophole? His dual position status makes him the leading captaincy loophole candidate with no cheaper DPP ruck options.

PORT ADELAIDE

Jackson Mead $117,300 MID

The father-son selection averaged an impressive 106 points for South Australia the under-18 national championships and is a likely Round 1 starter. Played predominately in the midfield as in the junior ranks but is expected to start as a forward at AFL level.

Verdict: Slot him on your midfield bench.

Miles Bergman $148,800 FWD

The first of the Power’s four top-25 picks, Bergman possesses great athleticism as a forward/midfielder. He posted four 120-plus totals at NAB League level and could feature in the Power side early given his X-Factor.

Verdict: Watch closely in the pre-season, but may be a touch pricey.

Wylie Buzza $142.300 FWD

Buzza was traded to the Power after failing to play a game for Geelong in 2019. The 199cm forward has been known to pinch-hit in the ruck when required as well.

Verdict: Has scored more than 60 just once in his nine career games. Pass.

RICHMOND

Marlion Pickett $123,900 MID

Pickett would have been a standout cash cow even without his unforgettable Grand Final debut. A 28-year-old cheapie, who is set to spend most of his time in the midfield, is prime money-making material. He looms as the most lucrative rookie of 2020.

Verdict: A SuperCoach gift, given his 96-point Grand Final performance isn’t factored into his starting price.

Riley Collier-Dawkins $123,900 MID

Richmond’s first selection from the 2018 draft, Collier-Dawkins got better as the year wore on for their VFL side. The inside midfielder finished the year with 22 touches and 109 points in the Tigers’ Grand Final win, and his height will add something different to their midfield mix if he gets senior opportunity.

Verdict: Won 57.5 per cent of his possessions in a contest last season, which means he is another to add to the watch-list.

ST KILDA

Max King $123,900 FWD

St Kilda’s great white hope is tracking well after injury kept him out for most of last season, with new coach Brett Ratten keen to get games into him. Key forwards are generally no-go zones in SuperCoach but there are exceptions to the rule.

Verdict: One you can’t write off considering the former No.4 pick’s talent.

Jack Bytel $123,900 MID

Like King, injury kept Bytel out of action in his debut AFL season. The tough midfielder averaged 115 points at NAB League level in 2018 and will be keen to prove himself after having little opportunity to do so.

Verdict: Looms as a potential bench option – watch list.

SYDNEY

Will Gould $117,300 DEF

The Swans draftee is one of three back-to-back U18 All-Australians from the latest draft crop, including Matt Rowell. Gould has an AFL-ready frame and excelled at SANFL level, taking the kick-ins for Glenelg and averaging 89 points per game. Has been compared to Eagles SuperCoach stud Shannon Hurn.

Verdict: Expect him to grasp a spot in Sydney’s new-look side, but monitor his pre-season form.

Dylan Stephens $189,300 MID

Sydney’s No.5 draft pick proved he can match it with bigger bodies last season, playing 13 senior SANFL games and averaging 82 points. All signs are pointing towards an early debut for the Andrew Gaff-like midfielder, especially after claiming a recent Swans 2km time-trial.

Verdict: One to consider as an on-field rookie, and may be too good to ignore if he impresses in their practice matches.

Matt Ling $123,900 DEF

Ling has had no luck since joining the Swans at the end of 2017, with injuries ruining his chances to prove himself for senior selection. The first round draftee has plenty of dash and entering his third year, should score better than others at his price.

Verdict: A promising Marsh Series could see him debut early. Watch list

Chad Warner $117,300 MID

The ball-winning midfielder averaged a whopping 156 points per game in the WAFL Colts, with more 61.5 per cent of his possessions coming in a contest. A strong pre-season could see the inside midfielder get opportunity.

Verdict: Another to look at in Marsh considering those numbers.

WESTERN BULLDOGS

Cody Weightman $144,300 FWD

Weightman has caught the eye during his first pre-season with teammate Jason Johannisen tipping an early debut for the high-leaping small forward. He averaged 80 points and 2.3 goals per game at the national championships.

Verdict: May be a touch inconsistent like most forward rookies - watch-list.

Ben Cavarra $123,900 FWD

One of the pre-season favourite of 2019, Cavarra had an injury-interrupted first season, playing just 12 matches and averaging 88 points in the VFL. He booted 65 goals for Williamstown the previous two seasons and should have a better chance of making an AFL breakthrough in 2020.

Verdict: If he looks to be a chance of debuting, jump on.

WEST COAST

Jarrod Brander $133,000 DEF/FWD

The rookie well is fairly dry at the Eagles, but Brander should get more senior opportunity in his third season. The 2017 first-round draftee has played just three games with a high score of 36.

Verdict: The numbers speak for themselves.