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[Presto]

7. Bailey Laurie (Melb)

$117,300, Fwd

AAMI Series score: DNP.

Melbourne needs more speed and skill forward-of-centre, and Laurie brings both in spades.

The No. 22 pick from last year’s draft has an outstanding footy IQ and can set up play from the midfield or put the finishing touches on inside-50 himself with equal effect – something his demonstrated on the track already.

Laurie is a player who doesn’t need a lot of the ball to score well in KFC SuperCoach, either, finishing with 121 points in the 2019 NAB League grand final, on the back of 17 disposals and two goals.

The Phantom’s Verdict: Laurie fell out of the top-10 after missing out on last week’s practice match. And while he didn’t get on the ground for the AAMI Series clash, he’s back on the KFC SuperCoach early-season radar. Dual-position status makes him very appealing.

8. Jordon Butts (Adel)

$176,800

AAMI Series score: 70

With the pre-season injuries to Daniel Talia and Tom Doedee, along with Fischer McAsey’s struggle with form, Butts has been thrown into battle, twice shaping up against Power big man Charlie Dixon.

“Sometimes young fellas are going to get the opportunity and they’ve gotta step up… and Buttsy’s certainly done that,” Crows assistant Scott Burns said after the warm-up match at Alberton.

And then the 21-year-old, who played two senior games last year for KFC SuperCoach returns of 54 and 40, got involved himself, finishing with 12 disposals, five marks and 70 points in Sunday’s rematch.

He hurt his ankle late but is expected be right for Round 1.

The Phantom’s Post-AAMI Verdict: Butts averaged 16 disposals and six intercept possessions in his first year in the SANFL in 2019 and his 70-point AAMI Series score keeps him in the KFC SuperCoach mix, despite the elevated-rookie price.

9. Trent Bianco (Coll)

$123,900, Mid

AAMI Series score: DNP

He may have sat the first two quarters on the bench but with Scott Pendlebury rested in the second-half against the Cats, the skilful 20-year-old was used in an on-ball role, attending the majority of centre bounces after halftime.

And that’s a big tick to the development of his all-round game, given Bianco won most of his possession on the outside of the contest at junior level.

The ball-magnet, who is smart with ball in hand and uses it well on both sides of his body, tallied 22 disposals or more in 10 of his 11 NAB League matches in 2019 and averaged 119 KFC SuperCoach points.

The Phantom’s Pre-AAMI Verdict: It might not be on the inside but there appears to be an outside role in the Magpies’ midfield up for grabs. But, despite the impressive practice match, Bianco, who was in the squad, didn’t see any AAMI Series minutes, even after Steele Sidebottom’s early injury.

10. Will Gould (Syd)

$123,900

AAMI Series score: DNP

If Swans coach John Longmire’s comments are anything to go by, it looks like it’s finally happening.

Last summer’s pre-season KFC SuperCoach hype boy failed to make his AFL debut in 2020 but, after learning “about bodywork, footwork and also what’s required at AFL level” Gould appears ready.

“He’s had a terrific pre-season so far, he works really hard and that will give him the best chance this year,” Longmire said of Gould on the Your Coach podcast.

“He’s learnt a bit more about bodywork, foot work, a bit of a different role than what he played at SANFL level, and also what’s required at AFL level.”

As an 18-year-old in the SANFL in 2019, Gould delivered with precision from the back-half and knocked around some of his more senior opponents, averaging 19 disposals and 89 KFC SuperCoach points per game.

The Phantom’s Pre-AAMI Verdict: Sigh. After not doing a lot in the practice match, Gould wasn’t sighted in the AAMI Series, but surely - c’mon Horse - he pops up as an early downgrade option. GWS defender Connor Idun ($214), who scored 69 points on Saturday, is very, very close to kicking Gould out of the top-10.

Others to watch: Connor Idun (GWS), Harry Sharp (Bris), Heath Chapman (Freo), Jacob Wehr (GWS), Nick Murray (Adel), Liam Stocker (Carl), Denver Grainger-Barras (Haw), Isaac Chugg (Coll), Luke Foley (WC), Josh Worrel (Adel)

 

[Presto]

MIDFIELDERS

1. Errol Gulden (Syd)

$117,300

AAMI Series score: 77

The diminutive midfielder is a ball magnet who rarely fumbles, kicks goals and puts his teammates in better positions.

Gulden put together a standout junior career, impressing at every level he played at, posting KFC SuperCoach scores of 245, 177 and 149 at the under-16 national championships and 168, 131 and 105 in his three bottom-age NAB League games in 2019.

Then he averaged 88 points in three NEAFL matches as a 17-year-old.

The Swans Academy product has fit in seamlessly and is a big chance to break through in his debut season, especially given his ability forward-of-centre.

The Phantom’s Post-AAMI Verdict: If you can do what he does with the football in-hand – and that’s often – does it matter how tall you are? No. As written here in February, Gulden has rocketed up the list, following a standout practice match performance, and an even better AAMI Series display.

2. Tom Powell (NM)

$153,300

AAMI Series score: 57

If we’re talking pure KFC SuperCoach numbers, Powell is No. 1.

The ball magnet averaged 33 disposals, 15 contested possessions, 10 score involvements, eight clearances and 154 KFC SuperCoach points in the SANFL under-18s last year, to win the McCallum Tomkins medal as the competition’s best player.

Powell passed three figures in every one of his 15 matches and recorded two KFC SuperCoach double tons.

The Phantom’s Post-AAMI Verdict: After admitting he needed to spend some more time in the gym in February, I was concerned about his Round 1 chances. But Powell was impressive in North Melbourne’s midfield against the Saints and was the club’s leading disposal winner to half time in the AAMI Series clash with the Hawks. He might start at half-forward but he’s still good enough to win plenty of ball.

3. James Jordon (Melb)

$123,900

AAMI Series score: 37

There’s plenty to like about the third-year Demon.

The 20-year-old was close to a debut in 2020 - only to hurt his finger at the wrong time -skipper Max Gawn has been talking him up in his podcast over summer and he started in Melbourne’s midfield for the practice match against the Tigers.

The 186cm Jordan spent the early part of 2019, his first year on the list, playing in defence in the VFL, but it wasn’t long before he was showing off his strength and clean hands at the contest through the middle, tallying 26 disposals, 13 contested possessions, 11 groundball-gets, eight clearances and 142 KFC SuperCoach points in Round 14.

The Phantom’s Post-AAMI Verdict: Made a few errors against the Bulldogs but the role is there. We probably should’ve been talking more about this guy earlier.

4. Connor Downie (Haw)

$117,300

AAMI Series score: 40

Downie is a great kick and has some serious speed, addressing two areas of need in Hawthorn’s engine room.

And, while he’s also been trialed across half-back and in a forward role, Hawks head of development Sam Mitchell recently confirmed Downie has “been playing mostly on a wing” over the pre-season.

The 185cm draftee is versatile and as dedicated as they come.

“He’s a ripper kid. Desperate to learn, desperate to improve, he wants to look at vision, he wants to grab hold of coaches,” Mitchell said.

The Phantom’s Post-AAMI Verdict: Downie collected 17 disposals against the Kangaroos and, while he only posted KFC SuperCoach tons in four of his 14 NAB League games in 2019, his skill and readiness should lead to points early on.

5. Lachie McNeil (WB)

$102,400

AAMI Series score: 35

The 18-year-old ball-magnet was overlooked in the 2019 draft despite a consistent year, which saw him have an influence as an inside midfielder at every level of football he played, including all four of SA’s under-18 national carnival matches.

But McNeil went back to the SANFL and played every senior game in 2020, averaging 18 disposals, four tackles and 74 points.

The 20-year-old, who was rookie listed by the Dogs, was a standout in the practice match and started forward in the AAMI Series clash with the Demons, confirming the thought he’s been earmarked for a role.

The Phantom’s Post-AAMI Verdict: He might not be unleashed to win the ball in the midfield but a $102k rookie who is a chance to start on-field in Round 1 is a lock for your bench.

6. Riley Collier-Dawkins (Rich)

$123,900

AAMI Series score: 16

Richmond’s top pick from the 2018 draft – No. 20 overall – is yet to break into the senior side, despite impressing in 20 VFL matches, with his 2019 grand final the highlight.

The 190cm midfielder, who boasts terrific speed away from the contest, was one of Richmond’s best, finishing with 15 disposals, nine contested possessions, six tackles, two goals and 109 KFC SuperCoach points – his third ton for the year - in the win over Williamstown.

Since then, Collier-Dawkins, who won 58 per cent of his possession in a contest in the VFL, has put on significant muscle and impressed all the right people.

“He’s has had a fantastic pre-season,” coach Damien Hardwick said on SEN in February.

“He’s very explosive, he’s very powerful, his fitness base has really improved and he’s matured.

“We always knew Riley was going to take a bit of time. I think he’s going to be a really good player for us.”

The Phantom’s Post-AAMI Verdict: It’s a tough midfield to break into but, after biding his time, 2021 could be RCD’s year. Will it be Round 1, though? He attended eight centre bounces and tallied eight disposals in 39 per cent game-time against the Magpies to prove he’s ready. But star Dion Prestia will return for the season opener. He might be pushed from this spot soon enough.

7. Tanner Bruhn (GWS)

$157,800

AAMI Series score: 62

Bruhn only played two games due to injury last year but at the under-16 national carnival in 2018, the well-balanced midfielder danced in and out of traffic and delivered with precision on his way to being named Vic Country’s MVP.

And he’s set to bring his class to the Giants’ forward-half after a dazzling AAMI Series performance.

“He’s probably in that mould, of, I don’t want to put too much pressure on him, but Toby Greene started out his career (as) just a ball hunter. They want to get their hands on the footy, GWS coach Leon Cameron said after Bruhn’s four-goal, 62-point performance against the Swans.

The Phantom’s Post-AAMI Verdict: The Giants’ top pick looks set for early action but, despite his talent, the small-forward role pushes him down the list given the price.

 

[Presto]

8. Anthony Scott (NM)

$102,400, Fwd

The 25-year-old, who won Footscray’s best-and-fairest in the VFL last year, was added to the list as an SSP signing and can play multiple positions.

Of course he can.

But, seriously, any mature-age recruit with a $102k price tag is worth keeping an eye on, especially one who booted two goals and finished with 80 KFC SuperCoach points in the AAMI Series.

The Phantom’s Post-AAMI Verdict: I usually keep the dual-position rookies out of the midfield rankings but there’s plenty of great forward-eligible options so I’ve included Scott here. It is Luke Beveridge, though, so I’m not convinced just yet.

9. Jackson Mead (Port)

$123,900

AAMI Series score: 25

With a strong body, terrific skills and the ability to play in the midfield, and as a forward who can take a strong mark overhead, I thought Mead was a chance to break into the Power’s side in his debut season.

And he was on track, too, before a hamstring injury ruined the early part of 2020.

The same thing has happened again this summer with a bulked-up Mead impressing on the track before missing Port’s official intra-club game with a slight hamstring concern.

But he was back for the official AAMI Series match, booting a goal from six disposals in the second half.

Mead, labelled “a very dynamic and explosive player” by teammate Hamish Hartlet, 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 in his draft year of 2019.

The Phantom’s Post-AAMI Verdict: Mead has plenty of weapons which coach Ken Hinkley would have to, at least, be thinking about. A lock if he’s a surprise Round 1 debutant but Mead might be more of an early downgrade option.

10. Cooper Stephens $123,900

$123,900

AAMI Series score: DNP

Despite breaking his leg in his draft year, Stephens was picked at pick No. 16 in 2019 after a standout bottom-age season.

The tough 188cm midfielder won more 53 per cent of ball in a contest and averaged 122 KFC SuperCoach points in the final four NAB League games.

He then posted scores of 102 and 140 in the opening two rounds of the 2019 season before the injury.

After building back to full fitness last year, he was named emergency for the Cats five times but failed to crack the senior side.

If a spot opens up, Chris Scott is unlikely to have any hesitation throwing the talented 20-year-old straight into the middle.

The Phantom’s Post-AAMI Verdict: Like Collier-Dawkins, Stephens’ game is suited to KFC SuperCoach scoring and he’s more physically-ready than a number of the recent draftees. Well, he was, until a knee issue stalled his progress.

Others to watch: Charlie Lazzaro (NM), Will Phillips (NM), Luke Valente (Freo), Sam Berry (Adel), Alex Davies (GC), Luke Pedlar (Adel), Jeremy Sharp (GC), Thomson Dow (Rich)

RUCKMEN

1. Matthew Flynn (GWS)

$123,900

AAMI Series score: DNP

With Braydon Preuss’ injury, the GWS Academy graduate’s long wait for an AFL debut may be over.

After being drafted at pick No. 41 in the 2015 national draft, the 200cm big man has failed to crack the senior side.

But the 23-year-old, after a slow start, has been developing nicely in the NEAFL in the past three years, and the Giants have been happy with his progress.

In 26 matches in 2018 and 2019, Flynn averaged 15 disposals, 24 hitouts – seven to advantage – five marks, three clearances and 98 KFC SuperCoach points.

We’re not talking Preuss replacements at R2, but Flynn is in line to help fill the ruck void at the Giants.

Veteran Shane Mumford, 34 – yes he’s still on the list – is going to have to play a bigger role than maybe he and the club expected, but the Giants’ other young ruckman Kieran Briggs has also had an injury-interrupted pre-season.

With Marshall gone from the premium forward mix, many KFC SuperCoach teams won’t bothering with a dual-position R3.

And, given the uncertainty around rookie-price players in other positions, a playing R3 in Flynn – and a non-playing loophole at, say, D8 - could be the better way to make money this year.

The Phantom’s Post-AAMI Verdict: He’s taken a while but so do most big men. Flynn remains at No. 1, despite missing the AAMI Series with a rolled ankle and is still the favourite to lead the Giants in the ruck next week.

2. Lloyd Meek (Freo)

$123,900

AAMI Series score: 75

Before a season-ending foot injury in 2019, the 203cm big man was dominating in the WAFL.

In Round 10 against South Fremantle, Meek finished with 17 disposals and 28 hit-outs – his fifth league appearance for the year.

A week later, the 21-year-old tallied 20 disposals, 36 hit-outs, six marks, six tackles, two goals and 177 KFC SuperCoach against Swan Districts, before limping off the ground in the final quarter.

Given the injury, and then the COVID pandemic, it was his WAFL last game.

But he’s back, fit and put on some considerable size, according to fellow ruckman Sean Darcy.

And with Darcy’s injury setback, and Rory Lobb’s AAMI Series injury, Meek could finally get his chance.

The Phantom’s pre-AAMI Verdict: With the Dockers’ depleted ruck stocks, Meek is almost a Round 1 lock now. And if Briggs is picked over Flynn at GWS, he’s a KFC SuperCoach lock at R3, too.

3. Paul Hunter (StK)

$102,400

AAMI Series score: 77

The former Crow averaged 17 disposals, 12 contested possessions, five clearances, 30 hitouts and 136 KFC SuperCoach points for South Adelaide in the SANFL last year.

And, now, St Kilda has officially added him to its list in the wake of a standout intra-club performance and the foot injury to Rowan Marshall.

The Phantom’s Pre-AAMI Verdict: Hunter was impressive in the AAMI Series, finishing with 13 disposals and a goal against Blue Marc Pittonet. How many ruck spots do we have again?

Flanders (GC)

 

[Presto]

4. Josh Treacy (Freo)

$102,400, Fwd

AAMI Series score: 27

Before the Preuss/Marshall/Flynn news, Treacy was every KFC SuperCoach’s R3, featuring in more than 55.7 per cent of teams – only Nakia Cockatoo was in more.

And with dual-position status and a basement price tag, it was a no-brainer.

It probably still is, too, if you going to trust a Peter Ladhams, Rory Lobb or the rookie next on this list in the forward line as your back-up ruck.

But he’s impressed over summer with his physicality and contested marking, with forward Matt Taberner recently declaring Treacy has “a body ready for the AFL”.

In his bottom-age NAB League season, 194cm rookie-listed forward averaged 13 disposals, five score involvements, four marks – one contested – and 90 KFC SuperCoach points per game, while also booting 15 goals.

He may not turn out to be the best non-playing R3 loophole after all. He could, in fact, make money at some point.

The Phantom’s post-AAMI Verdict: A very interesting one. The perfectly-priced DPP for R3 but there’s a genuine chance he plays at some point.

6. Tom Fullarton (Bris)

$128,900, Fwd

AAMI Series score: 65

The former basketballer, who was recruited as a category B rookie from the NBL in 2018, has developed dramatically during his time at the Lions.

After impressing in the NEAFL with his athleticism, marking and running ability for a 200cm tall in 2019, Fullarton made his senior debut last year, booting 1.2 from eight disposals to finish with 54 KFC SuperCoach points.

He was injured in the first quarter of Brisbane’s next game.

Breakout big man Oscar McInerney is set to lead the ruck but Stefan Martin is no longer at the club and Archie Smith is yet to make the back-up spot his own.

The Phantom’s Pre-AAMI verdict: If you’re not throwing the R3 spot, Fullarton could be make some money early in the season. And the forward status could come in handy. Pending selection, of course. Will Chris Fagan play a second ruckman or rely on Joe Daniher to give McInerney a chop-out? Fullarton’s two goals on Monday night will help his case.

5. Riley Thilthorpe (Adel)

$202,800, Fwd

AAMI Series score: 12

As the No. 2 pick, he’s expensive but Thilthorpe is likely to see plenty of early action in his debut season.

The Crows want to put their highest-ever pick on show in 2021 and, after having a big impact at senior level over the past two years, Thilthorpe is ready.

“We’d really like to get him out there, the more games we can get into him early the better,” coach Matthew Nicks said on SEN in February.

His hands are terrific in the air and even better on the ground and, apart from being a strong-marking forward, has the ability to ruck or play on a wing, as he did in the second-half of the Crows’ intra-club hitout.

Thilthorpe averaged 139 KFC SuperCoach points for South Australia at the under-16 national carnival in 2018.

And on either side of his five senior appearances for West Adelaide as a 17-year-old in 2019, Thilthorpe posted scores of 138, 138, 172 and 144 in his final four SANFL under-18 games.

Then, before a lingering groin injury ended his season, Thilthorpe averaged 85 points in his nine league games in 2019, playing a ruck-forward role – one similar to what he’s going to start his AFL career in.

He appears to have put the groin issue behind him and, now the big pre-season question might become which tall makes way at West Lakes?

The Phantom’s post-AAMI Verdict: He was overlooked for the practice match against Port but he went and dominated the SANFL trial instead, a performance earnt him an AAMI Series start. But he only appeared late in the second-half and is one for down the track in KFC SuperCoach.

FORWARDS

1. James Rowe (Adel)

$117,300

AAMI Series score: 63

After booting 35 goals in 2019, Rowe booted 38 majors in the minor round last year to win the Ken Farmer Medal as the SANFL’s leading goalkicker.

There’s, arguably, no player from the 2020 draft class more ready for the AFL than Rowe, who boasts uncanny goal sense and elite footy IQ. And, after a standout summer, and with Tyson Stengle stood down, the Crows agree.

“He is going really well – I’m happy to talk Rowey up,” Crows forwards coach James Rahilly said in February.

“He’s at an AFL level, I’m very confident.”

The Phantom’s Post-AAMI verdict: Rowe averaged 96 points per game, after posting 10 KFC SuperCoach tons, as a small-forward in the SANFL and he had 15 touches, booting three behinds, in the big AAMI Series loss to the Power. He’s a lock.

2. Braeden Campbell (Syd)

$189,300, Mid

AAMI Series score: 85

“We like what Braeden can deliver off half-back and through the midfield, just because of his kicking,” John Longmire said recently.

Co-captain Josh Kennedy was just as excited about the Academy gun, declaring on Melbourne radio that Campbell will “have a pretty immediate impact either in the midfield or half-forward/half-back”.

That’s probably enough for me – his junior numbers are just the sweetener.

The skilful, goalkicking midfielder starred at every level he played at through a standout underage career, averaging 127 KFC SuperCoach points at the under-16 national carnival and 123 in four NAB League games in his bottom-age season of 2019.

The Phantom’s Post-AAMI verdict: All signs still point to Campbell being worth the top-end rookie price tag, especially after his 85-point performance on Saturday.

3. Chad Warner (Sydney)

$144,000

AAMI Series score: 89

The second-year Swan was flying under the KFC SuperCoach radar until his standout performance against the Giants.

Warner, who broke through for two senior games last year, tallied 19 disposals, 89 points and the second-most metres gained for the Swans.

In his draft year of 2019, Warner averaged a huge 156 SuperCoach points per game at WAFL Colts level.

The Phantom’s Post-AAMI verdict: I was concerned about where he fits in but with Dylan Stephens overlooked, Warner looks set for a Round 1 midfield berth.

4. Paddy Dow (Carl)

$202,400, Mid

AAMI Series score: 89

He won 60 per cent of his possession at the under-18 championships in a contest in 2017 and tallied 35 disposals, 21 contested possessions and six clearances in his final junior game.

Since then, however, Dow has passed the 80-point mark in KFC SuperCoach just once in 42 AFL matches.

But after a blistering midfield performance against the Bombers, could this be the year the former No. 3 pick finally delivers on his potential?

The Phantom’s Pre-AAMI verdict: Possibly. And you don’t really want to miss out on the $202k price tag if it is.

 

[Presto]

5. Miles Bergman (Port)

$123,900

AAMI Series score: 77

“I think Bergs (Miles Bergman) and Jonesy (Lachie Jones) will be stiff if they miss out on playing round 1.”

That’s what Port Adelaide defender Dan Houston told SEN in Adelaide before the AAMI Series.

And he’s not the only one to be impressed by the 19-year-old’s pre-season, which has seen his continued transition into defence.

“Miles looks really sharp. He’s ready to go,” Power assistant coach Brett Montgomery said of the converted half-back following practice match win over the Crows.

The talented Bergman averaged 120 points in the final six NAB League games of his draft year in 2019, playing a high half-forward/wing role.

The Phantom’s Post-AAMI Verdict: Initially, the only thing keeping him down the list was the strength of Port Adelaide’s 22. But, after tallying 17 disposals and eight marks in 79 per cent game-time on Sunday, Bergman might be in it.

6. Tyler Brockman (Haw)

$117,300, Mid

AAMI Series score: 80

“He is doing a few little special things where you think, there are not too many who could have done what he just did,” Hawks head of development Sam Mitchell said of the draftee in February.

And many others were thinking the same after the 18-year-old’s three first-quarter goals against the Kangaroos.

The Phantom’s Post-AAMI verdict: KFC SuperCoach and small-forwards don’t usually mix but his job security might be solid.

7. Joe Daniher (Bris)

$233,300

AAMI Series score: 64.

I’m nervous. But he’s on fire.

Can we leave out a $233k player who averaged 86 points in his last full season and posted a KFC SuperCoach ton in his first game back from a long spell last year?

Probably not.

Sure, that season was 2017 and Daniher has played just 15 of a possible 66 home-and-away matches since, but even if the 26-year-old, being fed by a star-studded Brisbane midfield, produced a big opening month, it would be worth it.

The Phantom’s Post-AAMI verdict: There’s been no setback over summer and he booted four goals in the Lions’ intra-club hitout, four against the Suns in the practice match and another three on Monday. Sure, it could break you, but it could also make your year.

8. Jarman Impey (Haw)

$212,800

AAMI Series score: 39

After returning from a knee reconstruction midway through last season, Impey spent time at either end of the ground, struggling to have a consistent impact.

But he’s back in defence, a position he averaged 74 points in from 17 games in 2019, and was a highlight of the Hawks’ intra-club hitout.

“His run and carry and his ability to break a line off half-back, we really missed that last year,” Hawthorn development coach Sam Mitchell told the club’s website in February.

After a slow start in his first year at the club in 2018, Impey also averaged 71 points from Round 8 onwards.

A return to even that level will see the 25-year-old make some early cash.

The Phantom’s Post-AAMI verdict:It might all depend on which bottom-price rookies make the Round 1 cut but there’s no doubt Impey will play – and make money. Impey followed-up his impressive intra-club showing in the practice match against the Bulldogs, reaffirming this verdict. Don’t worry about the reduced minutes in the AAMI Series.

9. Ned Cahill (Ess)

$161,200

AAMI Series score: 52

“I don’t want to put too much pressure on a guy in his second year, but I’m encouraged by Ned. He’s extremely neat with the footy,” Bombers assistant coach Daniel Giansiracusa told the club’s website of Cahill’s move to defence in 2021.

And that’s encouraging, given the hole Adam Saad has left across half-back.

But with Dyson Heppell’s likely return to the back-half, and the fact Cahill, who was drafted as small-forward, admitting to never playing in defence before, I’m not fully convinced.

The Phantom’s Pre-AAMI verdict: I’m starting to come around, though, after his recent showings.

10. Alec Waterman (Ess)

$102,400

AAMI Series score: 13

Waterman was officially a Bomber on Tuesday, and he should be in your KFC SuperCoach team on Wednesday.

After averaging 95 and 111 KFC SuperCoach points in each of the past two WAFL seasons respectively, the 24-year-old, who was delisted by the Eagles last year, booted four goals against the Blues in the practice match.

The Phantom’s Post-AAMI verdict: Very limited game-time in the AAMI Series has resulted in a big fall for Waterman. He might not last here for long.

And one more...
Ely Smith, $123,900, Mid

AAMI Series score: DNP

Smith was drafted as an inside-midfielder, with a brilliant vertical leap, after averaging 23 disposals, 12 contested possessions, five clearances, five tackles and 114 KFC SuperCoach points in the NAB League in 2018.

But with the depth of midfield talent at the Lions, Smith, who is yet to play a senior game, has trimmed down and dramatically improved his running capabilities in a bid to play on the outside.

And the 20-year-old, who averaged 19 disposals and 88 points in his first season in the NEAFL in 2019, has been one of the standouts over the pre-season, according to his teammates.

The Phantom’s Post-AAMI verdict: Was left out in order to play a full game in the reserves. Is that his Round 1 chances gone? Maybe not with Cam Rayner’s knee injury. And that’s why I can’t take him off completely just yet.

OTHERS TO WATCH:Kade Chandler (Melb), Oliver Henry (Coll), Archie Perkins (Ess),Harrison Jones (Ess), Phoenix Spicer (NM), Finlay Macrae (Coll), Nakia Cockatoo (Bris), Deven Robertson (Bris), Liam Henry (Freo), Sam

 

[Professor]

SuperCoach AFL jury: Key questions answered after pre-season games
The pre-season is done and dusted, but how much should it really mean for your KFC SuperCoach team? Our jury of experts answer the key questions ahead of Round 1.


9 min read
March 10, 2021 - 6:00AM
News Corp Australia Sports Newsroom





HERALDSUN.COM.AU0:52
Heath Shaw's Best Bargains in KFC SuperCoach AFL
KFC SuperCoach AFL ambassador Heath Shaw knows a few players worth taking a punt on this season – spoiler alert: they're all ex-Giants.


The clock is ticking for KFC SuperCoaches as the first bounce of the AFL season draws closer.
That of course means the days of unlimited trades and team tinkering are numbered and KFC SuperCoaches need to make decisions on their Round 1 sides.
We’ve called on KFC SuperCoach jury after the pre-season games to help with your decisions.

Here’s their best advice for the season ahead and the calls they’re making on some of the key positions in KFC SuperCoach teams for 2021.
PRE-SEASON: EVERY KFC SUPERCOACH SCORE FROM COMMUNITY SERIES
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KFC SuperCoaches are desperate for popular rookies such as Lachlan Jones to be named for Round 1.
How many rookies are you starting on field?
@azzajewell: I currently have six rookies on field. But it’s been fluctuating between four and nine, with four meaning more mid-pricers on field (something I’m trying to avoid) or nine being a full guns-and-rookies side. Round 1 team sheets can’t come soon enough.
@DamoSC: I’d like to start eight or nine with 12 or 13 keepers as I’m more of a guns-and-rookies type player, but this year I just don’t know if it’s possible. In my current set up, which isn’t locked in, I have seven.


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@damoj88: Trying to limit it to as few as possible at this stage. I have two defenders, two midfielders and two forwards.
@nacheers: At the moment I have six rookies, two defenders, four mids and no forwards. On top of this I also have Hayden Young, Jarman Impey, Jye Caldwell and Ned Cahill.
@empr_x: As few as possible, but ideally avour five depending on the final make up of my team. Currently one forward, three mids and one defender, but that will no doubt change once we learn who will debut in Round 1. Have a plan for every set up!
@JordsSupercoach: I currently have five base priced rookies on-field, and five players between 170-280k, as I am preparing for the worst come round 1 when it comes to rookies being named. I’d prefer to have less 150-250k players if possible.
@lekdogsc: At this stage I have six rookie-priced players sitting on my field with four in the midfield and one in defence and up forward.
@hunterpunter_1: Seven players under $200k at the moment. I might need to compromise on a premium pick if the rookies don’t get selected Round 1.
@BolchDylan: Right now — eight. That’s pretty grim though when you consider the lack of youngsters putting their hands up for Round 1.
@honeyballafl: Hate to say it, but it’s just too hard to be definitive at this point. The availability and quality of rookies play a big part in forming your line-up structure and that’s a bit of an unknown until we get more info from the AAMI Series and Round 1 selection.

Jayden Short’s dominant pre-season game has our jury interested.

 

[Professor]

Who’s your D3 and D4? (third defender and fourth defender)
@azzajewell: Callum Mills currently occupies my D3 position with James Harmes at D4. Both with less than 10 per cent ownership and they are also my big PODs at the moment. Mills was a beast against GWS in their practice game and Harmes is back in the main midfield group where he belongs, something tells me they might not be PODs for much longer.

@DamoSC: Jayden Short and Jeremy Howe.

@damoj88: My D3 is currently Short, but tossing up between him and Liam Duggan. Harmes was my smokie D4, but I have since downgraded him to Hayden Young in order to upgrade Zac Williams to Short.

@nacheers: Tom Stewart is my D3 and Short is my D4. This is subject to change. I’m unsure on whether I start Jake Lloyd or not. This is the area of my team I am really torn on what to do.

@empr_x: This changes hourly and given the lack of defensive rookies I’ve had Short, Stewart, Ridley and Duggan all in the rotation for those two spots.

Callum Mills’ midfield switch has jury member Azza Jewell interested.
@JordsSupercoach: Daniel and Stewart. Daniel feels relatively safe and really hit form at the back end of 2020. Stewart also seems a safe option, but has had some slight durability issues over the past two off seasons.

@lekdogsc: The last iteration of my team has Caleb Daniel and Zac Williams at D3 and D4, but Williams all but certainly missing Round 1 has put paid to that. James Harmes returning to the midfield has him sitting at D5 but he might have to slide to D4. Please let some other rookies appear in defence.

@hunterpunter_1: I currently have Tom Stewart and Jayden Short.

@BolchDylan: D3 is Jayden Short and D4 is Nik Cox. I’m not sure how feasible the guns and rookies structure is at the moment, so it’s still very up in the air. James Harmes and Hayden Young are two players that could make their way into my side.

The KFC SuperCoach jury are bullish about Dustin Martin as a forward.
How many forward premiums are you starting?
@azzajewell: It’s been floating between two or three, with Patrick Dangerfield, Steele Sidebottom, Josh Dunkley, Dustin Martin and Dayne Zorko all firmly in my sights. At the moment, I’m running with Dangerfield, Dunkley and Martin, but that’ll probably change in 30 seconds at the rate I keep tinkering with my side.

@DamoSC: Only Dustin Martin.

@damoj88: This could be the one year I go into the season with less than my usual three. At present, Dangerfield is the only premium I am rolling with, who is locked and loaded. Due to going deeper in the midfield, and the plethora of mid price options in the forwards (Impey/Ziebell), I am happy with this structure.

@nacheers: Five days ago I had a structure of 3/4/2/3 — premiums per position. With the excitement defenders scoring potential, lack of rookie defenders and some decent options around 200k-300k in the forward line. This has switched to 4/4/2/2.

Is Patrick Dangerfield worth paying more than $600,000 for?
@empr_x: Just Danger. Even then, I may play Danger in the middle and swing him forward later. Historically, the top forward premos don’t really show up and announce themselves until a fair way into the year so I’m happy to wait.

Tom Phillips is growing in popularity with DPP and a friendly role at Hawthorn.
@JordsSupercoach: One — Tom Phillips. It has come to my attention that Hawks will use him both inside and outside, that is good enough for me for 400k. Dusty is in consideration.

@lekdogsc: I’ll be starting two premium forwards in the forward line, Dustin Martin and Dayne Zorko. I think they’ll pretty much hold their price and are both durable in a year where we only get the teams being named 24 hours out from a game.

@hunterpunter_1: Dangerfield and Dusty.

@BolchDylan: At this stage I’ve got Dangerfield and Dunkley, although it is likely that one of them goes if the rookies don’t show themselves.

Luke Ryan is the defensive premium KFC SuperCoaches are overlooking — again.

 

[Professor]

Who’s the player you want to pick but can’t fit in?
@azzajewell: Cameron Rayner was the one I kept coming back to, but sadly after his knee injury against Gold Coast we almost certainly won’t see him again this year. I was very bullish about a breakout.

@DamoSC: Luke Ryan isn’t in my current team set up. He has been at various stages but proving to be just that little bit too expensive to give my team the proper balance it needs. Removing Jake Lloyd because of injury makes my team look better as well. I will want both eventually though.

@damoj88: Paddy ‘Wow’ (Dow). As seen in Carlton’s scratch match with Essendon, he looks to have added some muscle to his slight frame, and is playing with new-found confidence; sidestepping opponents and performing fend o*** that would make Dusty proud. Just need to find a spare $70k to fit him in!

@nacheers: At the moment I need to decide between a couple of different structures. Weighing up Rory Laird vs Jake Lloyd essentially.

New Bomber Jye Caldwell has had a promising pre-season.
@empr_x: Nat Fyfe. Having watched his huge first half against the Eagles in the trial game and with no injury setbacks in his preparation this season, I feel like this is the year he will finally finish in the top-10 for total points. But I can’t afford him and with the lack of rookie options he’s the one that will provide the cash to upgrade them to mid pricers.

@JordsSupercoach: I need to choose between one of Merrett and Petracca and I haven’t decided yet. Both I feel will be strong selections.

@lekdogsc: Jayden Short, I think he’ll rocket into the top-eight defenders this year, the new man in the mark rules are made for him. At $519k he is a bargain but he’s not as bankable as a Laird or Daniel so I’ll look to upgrade to him early in the year.

@hunterpunter_1: Travis Boak. POD and very consistent. Just can’t fit another uber premium into my midfield.

@BolchDylan: Jye Caldwell is a possibility. He should have played more senior footy at the Giants and looks to have a solid role down at Tullamarine now. Without sounding like a broken record, my answer to this question could be very different on the eve of Round 1, where I potentially have to sacrifice a guy I am really keen on.

KFC SuperCoaches might have to pay up for the likes of Hayden Young due to a lack of rookie options.
How many mid-pricers ($250k-$450k) will you start with?

@azzajewell: I’m aiming to have no more than three mid-pricers in my side, one in every line except the rucks. Currently I have Harmes, Tom Green and Ziebell, but there’s still so many on the watch list.

@DamoSC: Three. Hayden Young, Tom Phillips and Jack Ziebell.

@damoj88: I am running with three at the moment (Caldwell/Ziebell/Harmes), but you could also add Williams and Taranto into that bracket as they are both within the vicinity of $450k.

@nacheers: I currently have two players in this price range, Young and Ziebell. Seeing Ziebell on kick-ins swung me towards him.

Jack Ziebell is high on the mid-price priority list at $257k.
@empr_x: Quite a few. With there being a distinct lack of rookies with solid job security, sacrificing one premo for a few players who should deliver some serviceable scores early is a no-brainer. Currently I have Ziebell, Rayner, Young, Taranto and you could probably lump Impey and Dow in there too.

@JordsSupercoach: Two – Ziebell and Tom Phillips.

@lekdogsc: You only have to read my 11 commandments to know my position on mid-pricers, I’ve capped myself at two for the year in James Harmes (defence) and Jye Caldwell (forward) … I’ll have to let Jackson Hately, Cam Rayner and Ben Cunnington slide by.

@hunterpunter_1: Two – Caldwell and Ziebell. Love the upside of Caldwell in that inside mid role for Essendon and the fact he is listed as a forward means he’s in for me. Looks like Ziebell may take some of the kick-ins and get some cheap ball in the defensive half.

@BolchDylan: Jack Ziebell is my sole mid-pricer right now. I keep trying to convince myself that guns and rookies will work but in reality I think it’s going to be difficult and my hand will be forced.

@honeyballafl: Probably Willem Drew who’s a real smokie in the $300k range which is a bit high for someone slightly speculative who didn’t play at all last year. He had good CBAs in the scratch match against Adelaide so one to monitor as it’s a leap of faith.

You can’t start everyone in KFC SuperCoach — but do you still need Lachie Neale?
What’s the one piece of advice you would give other KFC SuperCoaches?

@azzajewell: My advice has and will always be simple when it comes to SuperCoach – have fun and enjoy it.

@DamoSC: You can’t start everyone, and that’s okay. Don’t pick your team based on scratch match performances, dig deeper than that. Doing your research will also give you an idea of who may be cheaper down the line as well.

@damoj88: Pretty simple; back your gut and your own research. Don’t get caught up in not picking a premium because they don’t present as good ‘value’. They are priced high for a reason, and their price fluctuation is irrelevant when they are selected to pump out consistent 100+ scores on average.

@nacheers: I have lots of people write to me asking for ideas, plans or trade options. At the end of the day you need to back your gut. If you believe it then roll with it! No one has a crystal ball to make decisions. Most of all enjoy it, it can absorb you sometimes but remember its just a bit of fun!

@empr_x: Trust your research when it comes to premiums. You picked them for a reason, so don’t go trading them out after a few poor games. Worst-case scenario is they bounce back to dominate, and you’ve wasted a trade. Remember, it’s a marathon not a sprint.

@JordsSupercoach: I would make sure your starting team isn’t high risk. I’d get a good read on rookie job security and ensure premiums have a KFC SuperCoach friendly role with a good history of durability for the vast majority. One risk pick might be reasonable. Mine is McDonald.

@lekdogsc: Daniel Rich is never a bad option … oh and you should select plenty of DPP’s for extra flexibility.

@hunterpunter_1: Pick durable players when selecting your premiums. Injuries will disrupt the upgrade process. You don’t want to be burning trades for players you were planning to keep for the season.

@BolchDylan: Back your own instincts. Listen, read and watch as much of the content and resources that are available, but go with your own gut. There’s nothing worse than thinking I should probably pick that player, then not, and watching him go bananas.

@honeyballafl: Consume as much information as possible right now and throughout pre-season and never rule anyone in (except Gawn) or out, but when it comes to decision time in the days leading up to Round 1, back your gut.

 

[Socrates2]

4. Josh Treacy (Freo)

$102,400, Fwd

AAMI Series score: 27

Before the Preuss/Marshall/Flynn news, Treacy was every KFC SuperCoach’s R3, featuring in more than 55.7 per cent of teams – only Nakia Cockatoo was in more.

And with dual-position status and a basement price tag, it was a no-brainer.

It probably still is, too, if you going to trust a Peter Ladhams, Rory Lobb or the rookie next on this list in the forward line as your back-up ruck.

But he’s impressed over summer with his physicality and contested marking, with forward Matt Taberner recently declaring Treacy has “a body ready for the AFL”.

In his bottom-age NAB League season, 194cm rookie-listed forward averaged 13 disposals, five score involvements, four marks – one contested – and 90 KFC SuperCoach points per game, while also booting 15 goals.

He may not turn out to be the best non-playing R3 loophole after all. He could, in fact, make money at some point.

The Phantom’s post-AAMI Verdict: A very interesting one. The perfectly-priced DPP for R3 but there’s a genuine chance he plays at some point.

6. Tom Fullarton (Bris)

$128,900, Fwd

AAMI Series score: 65

The former basketballer, who was recruited as a category B rookie from the NBL in 2018, has developed dramatically during his time at the Lions.

After impressing in the NEAFL with his athleticism, marking and running ability for a 200cm tall in 2019, Fullarton made his senior debut last year, booting 1.2 from eight disposals to finish with 54 KFC SuperCoach points.

He was injured in the first quarter of Brisbane’s next game.

Breakout big man Oscar McInerney is set to lead the ruck but Stefan Martin is no longer at the club and Archie Smith is yet to make the back-up spot his own.

The Phantom’s Pre-AAMI verdict: If you’re not throwing the R3 spot, Fullarton could be make some money early in the season. And the forward status could come in handy. Pending selection, of course. Will Chris ***an play a second ruckman or rely on Joe Daniher to give McInerney a chop-out? Fullarton’s two goals on Monday night will help his case.

5. Riley Thilthorpe (Adel)

$202,800, Fwd

AAMI Series score: 12

As the No. 2 pick, he’s expensive but Thilthorpe is likely to see plenty of early action in his debut season.

The Crows want to put their highest-ever pick on show in 2021 and, after having a big impact at senior level over the past two years, Thilthorpe is ready.

“We’d really like to get him out there, the more games we can get into him early the better,” coach Matthew Nicks said on SEN in February.

His hands are terrific in the air and even better on the ground and, apart from being a strong-marking forward, has the ability to ruck or play on a wing, as he did in the second-half of the Crows’ intra-club hitout.

Thilthorpe averaged 139 KFC SuperCoach points for South Australia at the under-16 national carnival in 2018.

And on either side of his five senior appearances for West Adelaide as a 17-year-old in 2019, Thilthorpe posted scores of 138, 138, 172 and 144 in his final four SANFL under-18 games.

Then, before a lingering groin injury ended his season, Thilthorpe averaged 85 points in his nine league games in 2019, playing a ruck-forward role – one similar to what he’s going to start his AFL career in.

He appears to have put the groin issue behind him and, now the big pre-season question might become which tall makes way at West Lakes?

The Phantom’s post-AAMI Verdict: He was overlooked for the practice match against Port but he went and dominated the SANFL trial instead, a performance earnt him an AAMI Series start. But he only appeared late in the second-half and is one for down the track in KFC SuperCoach.

FORWARDS

1. James Rowe (Adel)

$117,300

AAMI Series score: 63

After booting 35 goals in 2019, Rowe booted 38 majors in the minor round last year to win the Ken Farmer Medal as the SANFL’s leading goalkicker.

There’s, arguably, no player from the 2020 draft class more ready for the AFL than Rowe, who boasts uncanny goal sense and elite footy IQ. And, after a standout summer, and with Tyson Stengle stood down, the Crows agree.

“He is going really well – I’m happy to talk Rowey up,” Crows forwards coach James Rahilly said in February.

“He’s at an AFL level, I’m very confident.”

The Phantom’s Post-AAMI verdict: Rowe averaged 96 points per game, after posting 10 KFC SuperCoach tons, as a small-forward in the SANFL and he had 15 touches, booting three behinds, in the big AAMI Series loss to the Power. He’s a lock.

2. Braeden Campbell (Syd)

$189,300, Mid

AAMI Series score: 85

“We like what Braeden can deliver off half-back and through the midfield, just because of his kicking,” John Longmire said recently.

Co-captain Josh Kennedy was just as excited about the Academy gun, declaring on Melbourne radio that Campbell will “have a pretty immediate impact either in the midfield or half-forward/half-back”.

That’s probably enough for me – his junior numbers are just the sweetener.

The skilful, goalkicking midfielder starred at every level he played at through a standout underage career, averaging 127 KFC SuperCoach points at the under-16 national carnival and 123 in four NAB League games in his bottom-age season of 2019.

The Phantom’s Post-AAMI verdict: All signs still point to Campbell being worth the top-end rookie price tag, especially after his 85-point performance on Saturday.

3. Chad Warner (Sydney)

$144,000

AAMI Series score: 89

The second-year Swan was flying under the KFC SuperCoach radar until his standout performance against the Giants.

Warner, who broke through for two senior games last year, tallied 19 disposals, 89 points and the second-most metres gained for the Swans.

In his draft year of 2019, Warner averaged a huge 156 SuperCoach points per game at WAFL Colts level.

The Phantom’s Post-AAMI verdict: I was concerned about where he fits in but with Dylan Stephens overlooked, Warner looks set for a Round 1 midfield berth.

4. Paddy Dow (Carl)

$202,400, Mid

AAMI Series score: 89

He won 60 per cent of his possession at the under-18 championships in a contest in 2017 and tallied 35 disposals, 21 contested possessions and six clearances in his final junior game.

Since then, however, Dow has passed the 80-point mark in KFC SuperCoach just once in 42 AFL matches.

But after a blistering midfield performance against the Bombers, could this be the year the former No. 3 pick finally delivers on his potential?

The Phantom’s Pre-AAMI verdict: Possibly. And you don’t really want to miss out on the $202k price tag if it is.

Dow had a 'blistering midfield performance' says the Phantom which is not what I heard.
I would like to know where the Phantom finishes every year, many posters here have a better idea than the Phantom.

 

[Ratzondix]

Dow had a 'blistering midfield performance' says the Phantom which is not what I heard.
I would like to know where the Phantom finishes every year, many posters here have a better idea than the Phantom.

Dow scored 54 sc as well not 89.

 

[dlanod]

Anyone got https://www.heraldsun.com.au/sport/...s/news-story/42b994f5b326826df133e6e81fe518da ???

 

[Professor]

Anyone got https://www.heraldsun.com.au/sport/...s/news-story/42b994f5b326826df133e6e81fe518da ???

Every KFC SuperCoach score from the AAMI Community Series
The full round of official practice matches is in the books — and so are the KFC SuperCoach scores from every game. See who starred and who flopped.

The Phantom, Al Paton and Tim Michell

12 min read
March 9, 2021 - 12:04PM
News Corp Australia Sports Newsroom





HERALDSUN.COM.AU3:45
Dan Batten updates his KFC SuperCoach AFL team
Intra-club matches and injuries has seen rookie expert Dan Batten make a few changes to his KFC SuperCoach AFL team ahead of the 2021 season.


The AAMI Community series is here and it could be the most important round of pre-season matches in KFC SuperCoach history.
It’s clubs’ one and only official Round 1 dress rehearsal.
CHECK BACK OVER THE WEEKEND FOR EVERY SCORE FROM EVERY GAME

So which rookies put their name in the selection frame? Who confirmed their breakout contender status? And which stars have hit the ground running in 2021?
Here is every KFC SuperCoach from the opening game of the AAMI Series.

Watch every match of the 2021 AAMI Community Series LIVE on Kayo. New to Kayo? Try 14-Days Free Now >
SUNS V LIONS
SUNS
All eyes were on Matt Rowell ($495,100 MID) in the first game most of us have seen him play since he injured his shoulder in Round 5 last season. he former No.1 draft pick had 20 dispoals in 81 per cent of game time for 91 points, but the stat that will please his tens of thousands of KFC SuperCoach owners is 17 contested possessions — four more than anyone else on the field. Ex-Tiger Oleg Markov ($314,300 DEF) started like a house on fire but couldn’t maintain the rage, and please don’t pick Darcy MacPherson ($306,700 FWD) despite an impressive showing. He starred in the pre-season last year but was one of the biggest disappointments of 2020, averaging just 57 points a game.


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Lachie Weller 110
Jarrod Witts 103
Wil Powell 103
Darcy MacPherson 97
Alex Sexton 93
Touk Miller 91
Matt Rowell 91
Will Brodie 90
Brandon Ellis 89
Sam Day 84
Connor Budarick 83
Hugh Greenwood 75
Charlie Ballard 75
Jarrod Harbrow 63
Oleg Markov 63
Jack Lukosius 61
Noah Anderson 55
Jack Bowes 54
Caleb Graham 51
David Swallow 48
Ben King 45
Sam Collins 39
Ben Ainsworth 14
Chris Burgess 7
Nick Holman 7
LIONS
Superstar midfielder Lachie Neale ($721,800 MID) just rolled his arm over, cracking a KFC SuperCoach ton after a very slow start to ease any concerns over a calf issue that interrupted his pre-season. Joe Daniher ($233,300 FWD) kicked three goals and spent some time in the ruck and, crucially, didn’t get injured. He’s looking like — dare we say it — a safe pick for Round 1. Rookie hopes Nakia Cockatoo and Ely Smith both missed the best 22 but we could have a late defensive cheapie bolter in the form of Harry Sharp ($117,300 DEF/MID), who picked up 10 disposals and kicked a goal in just under 50 per cent of game time.
Jarrod Berry 114
Charlie Cameron 107
Dayne Zorko 105
Lachie Neale 101
Daniel Rich 96
Grant Birchall 93
Zac Bailey 90
Harris Andrews 85
Oscar McInerney 76
Ryan Lester 74
Hugh McCluggage 73
Tom Fullarton 65
Joe Daniher 63
Mitch Robinson 61
Eric Hipwood 55
Lincoln McCarthy 54
Harry Sharp 52
Jarryd Lyons 49
Jack Payne 45
Callum Ah Chee 44
Brandon Starcevich 42
Keidean Coleman 32
Cam Rayner 22
MORE: ULTIMATE AAMI SERIES SUPERCOACH SCOUTING REPORT

Matt Rowell of the Suns. Picture: Getty Images
BULLDOGS V DEMONS
DOGS
So much for The Bont being “POD” in KFC SuperCoach. Coaches have shied away from the star Bulldogs midfielders out of fear of them stealing each other’s points, but on this evidence there are plenty to go around, even after Adam Treloar is added to the midfield mix. Marcus Bontempelli ($623,900 MID) was supreme with 32 disposals and three goals, Jack Macrae ($650,100 MID) had the ball on a string and Josh Dunkley ($560,200 FWD/MID) laid 11 tackles. To top it off Caleb Daniel buzzed off half-back on his way to 34 touches of his own, making his past six KFC SuperCoach scores 110, 118, 120, 92, 152 and 141. And the Dogs weren’t just offering up premium options across the field — bottom-priced rookies Anthony Scott ($102,400 MID/FWD) and Lachie McNeil ($102,400 MID) are right in the frame for a Round 1 start.
Marcus Bontempelli 198
Josh Dunkley 170
Jack Macrae 158
Caleb Daniel 141
Tom Liberatore 140
Patrick Lipinski 108
Bailey Williams 100
Bailey Dale 95
Tim English 85
Anthony Scott 79
Josh Bruce 75
Lachie Hunter 71
Stefan Martin 68
Hayden Crozier 66
Bailey Smith 64
Rhylee West 55
Ryan Gardner 45
Mitch Wallis 43
Buku Khamis 37
Lachlan McNeil 35
Aaron Naughton 25
Alex Keath 22
Dominic Bedendo 11
Laitham Vandermee r4
DEMONS
Speaking of point of difference picks, Steven May ($507,900 DEF) was a great pick-up in the run home last year when he averaged 111 over the past seven rounds. He could be a good unique option again in 2021. James Harmes ($344,700 DEF) played in the midfield but did he do enough as a mid-price pick? Meanwhile, rookie hope James Jordon ($123,900 MID) started brightly, hopefully his 14 touches is enough to convince Simon Goodwin to pick him in Round 1.
Steven May 140
Jake Lever 123
Alex Neal-Bullen 113
Max Gawn 102
Ed Langdon 88
Bayley Fritsch 79
Christian Petracca 79
James Harmes 72
Trent Rivers 59
Kade Chandler 59
Nathan Jones 58
Luke Jackson 50
Adam Tomlinson 43
Neville Jetta 43
Charlie Spargo 42
Tom Sparrow 40
Jayden Hunt 38
James Jordon 37
Tom McDonald 34
Jake Bowey 31
Oskar Baker 27
Aaron vandenBerg 25
Jay Lockhart 16
Toby Bedford 9
MORE: ULTIMATE AAMI SERIES SUPERCOACH SCOUTING REPORT

Caleb Daniel continued his hot run of form.

 

[Professor]

DOCKERS V EAGLES
DOCKERS

Stop tempting us Nat Fyfe ($608,300 MID). The Fremantle skipper continued his red-hot pre-season with another dominant outing against the Eagles. There were plenty of eyes on second-year Docker Hayden Young ($279,400 DEF) and he enjoyed kick-out duties in the absence of Luke Ryan. It was a pleasing return for those planning to start Young, but not enough to result in a bandwagon jumping on. Lloyd Meek ($123,900 RUCK) is firming for a Round 1 start and could be a perfect R3 if Matthew Flynn misses out at GWS. He might even be a better cash cow regardless, although Meek is set to face Max Gawn on debut. Andrew Brayshaw ($544,200 MID) did just enough to be considered as a POD midfielder, although there’s better options at the same price or cheaper. The story was undoubtedly Fyfe — will you take the risk and hope he gets through a full campaign?

Nat Fyfe 128

Ethan Hughes 122

Brennan Cox 122

Andrew Brayshaw 94

Hayden Young 83

James Aish 82

David Mundy 78

Michael Frederick 77

Lloyd Meek 75

Blake Acres 75

Alex Pearce 71

Darcy Tucker 69

Lachie Schultz 57

Joel Hamling 57

Reece Conca 51

Tobe Watson 50

Connor Blakely 49

Bailey Banfield 48

Mitch Crowden 37

Liam Henry 34

Michael Walters 30

Josh Treacy 27

Matt Taberner 20

Travis Colyer 20

Heath Chapman 16

Rory Lobb 6

ROOKIE BIBLE: ALL THIS YEAR’S TOP SUPERCOACH CHEAPIES

Nat Fyfe starred for the Dockers — again.
EAGLES

Not much to consider from West Coast, although a fast finish by Liam Duggan ($448,600 DEF) gave KFC SuperCoaches plenty to think about. Duggan was meandering to a score of about 80 in his new midfield role before launching late. If you still weren’t impressed, it might be worth finding the extra $70k to start Jayden Short instead. Liam Ryan ($409,600 FWD) produced some great moments but what would he have scored without three goals? He’s a huge risk-reward play. Not sure I could reccomend Andrew Gaff ($570,800 MID). His big possession numbers don’t equate to big KFC SuperCoach scores often enough and that was the case again on Sunday night. You’d have to love a unique player to start Barrass or Sheppard — but they’re great options in KFC SuperCoach Draft.

Tom Barrass 120

Luke Shuey 103

Brad Sheppard 101

Dom Sheed 98

Liam Duggan 98

Jack Darling 89

Tom Cole 88

Jack Redden 88

Shannon Hurn 87

Liam Ryan 86

Andrew Gaff 85

Alex Witherden 81

Jackson Nelson 77

Jeremy McGovern 76

Jamie Cripps 64

Oscar Allen 62

Xavier O’Neill 59

Jamaine Jones 54

Jack Petruccelle 51

Josh Rotham 42

Nic Naitanui 39

Zane Trew 22

Nathan Vardy 16

Harry Edwards 16

Zac Langdon 12

Isiah Winder 11


POWER V CROWS
POWER

Add Zak Butters ($471,400 FWD) to your list of mid-price forwards after a 24-disposals, 10-mark performance, but you can cross off Connor Rozee ($377,200 FWD). He was possibly even more brilliant against the Crows but confirmed post-match he’s likely to have foot surgery which will rule him out of the opening rounds. Rookie watchers had to wait until the seond half to see Lachie Jones ($139,800 DEF) but he was super impressive in his shortened game time. Come on, Kenny, back him in!

Dan Houston 134

Zak Butters 127

Aliir Aliir 122

Robbie Gray 121

Ollie Wines 111

Willem Drew 109

Riley Bonner 109

Karl Amon 94

Peter Ladhams 89

Darcy Byrne-Jones 88

Connor Rozee 86

Kane Farrell 85

Ryan Burton 85

Tom Jonas 81

Orazio Fantasia 79

Miles Bergman 77

Xavier Duursma 75

Scott Lycett 68

Steven Motlop 58

Tom Rockliff 45

Tom Clurey 44

Lachlan Jones 43

Mitch Georgiades 37

Travis Boak 36

Charlie Dixon 28

Jackson Mead 25

CROWS

Another tough day at the office but Rory Laird ($564,700 DEF/MID) played as a midfielder all day, which is a positive sign for his 2021 prospects. James Rowe ($117,300 FWD) is a Round 1 lock and would have scored better if he didn’t hit the post from a metre out after a piece of sharp crumbing in the goalsquare. Rory Sloane ($471,900 MID) offers value but cheapies Riley Thilthorpe ($202,800 FWD) and Sam Berry ($117,300 MID) only played a half and didn’t see much of it.

Brodie Smith 108

Rory Laird 99

Rory Sloane 98

Andrew McPherson 84

Matt Crouch 83

Jordon Butts 70

Lachlan Sholl 68

James Rowe 63

Reilly O’Brien 58

Paul Seedsman 56

Taylor Walker 52

Ben Keays 46

Darcy Fogarty 44

Will Hamill 42

Luke Brown 41

Nicholas Murray 39

Shane McAdam 35

Mitchell Hinge 35

Harry Schoenberg 30

Ned McHenry 29

Billy Frampton 23

Chayce Jones 13

Sam Berry 13

Riley Thilthorpe 12

MORE: THE 11 PLAYERS YOU MUST PICK IN SUPERCOACH

Lachlan Jones of the Power. Picture: Getty Images
GWS GIANTS V SYDNEY
GIANTS

The Giants’ ruck setup will be one of the biggest KFC SuperCoach talking points leading into Round 1. Matthew Flynn($123,900 RUCK) looked set to take over the No.1 ruck role after an injury to Braydon Preuss, but he rolled an ankle opening the door for Kieren Briggs ($123,900 DEF/FWD), who held his own in the role against Sydney, while Shane Mumford played in a reserves trial match. Mid-price midfielders Tim Taranto ($453,700 MID) and Tom Green ($351,400 MID) didn’t lose any fans while Josh Kelly ($615,500 MID) looks like he will love the new man on the mark rule.

Toby Greene 132

Josh Kelly 109

Tim Taranto 106

Harry Perryman 87

Tom Green 83

Sam Reid 82

Kieren Briggs 81

Matt de Boer 76

Harry Himmelberg 76

Callan Ward 73

Jacob Hopper 72

Stephen Coniglio 70

Connor Idun 69

Isaac Cumming 69

Matt Buntine 68

Lachie Ash 66

Jack Buckley 62

Tanner Bruhn 62

Sam Taylor 57

Nick Haynes 52

Daniel Lloyd 50

Lachlan Keeffe 45

Jake Riccardi 39

Xavier O’Halloran 23

Jeremy Finlayson 17

Nick Shipley -2

SWANS

The Sydney rookie factory is in full production with a trio of exciting youngsters in line to make their debut in Round 1. Braeden Campbell ($189,300 MID/FWD) hardly wasted any of his 18 disposals, Errol Gulden (4117,300 MID) was busy with 14 disposals, four tackles and a goal, and No.4 draft pick Logan McDonald ($193,800 FWD) showed some great signs after coming on at halftime, although that is a lot to pay for a young key forward. The other Swans cheapie to watch is Chad Warner ($144,000 FWD), who played two tames last year without setting the world on fire (soring 29 and 38) but seems to have taken some big strides over the pre-season.

James Rowbottom 114

Luke Parker 96

Sam Wicks 90

Chad Warner 89

Braeden Campbell 85

George Hewett 79

Tom McCartin 79

Jordan Dawson 78

Callum Mills 78

Oliver Florent 77

Errol Gulden 77

Josh P. Kennedy 76

Isaac Heeney 76

Nick Blakey 62

Logan McDonald 61

Sam Reid 52

Lewis Melican 51

Tom Hickey 50

Will Hayward 46

Tom Papley 43

Harry Cunningham 41

Dane Rampe 36

Callum Sinclair 24

Matthew Ling 8

Ryan Clarke 5

James Bell 3

Isaac Heeney gives off a handball under pressure.

 

[Professor]

GEELONG v ESSENDON
Patrick Dangerfield ($611,900 FWD/MID) eased his way back into the action after an interrupted summer and should be firing on all cylinders for Round 1, but the big bolter for the Cats was Jordan Clark ($241,900 DEF/MID) who managed just three matches last year. He played on a wing but drifted back to take a kick-out and forward to kick a goal among his 27 disposals. Rookie forward Francis Evans ($123,900 FWD) only came on late but did snag a goal.

CATS

Tom Stewart 133

Tom Atkins 120

Jordan Clark 119

Patrick Dangerfield 94

Josh Jenkins 92

Lachie Henderson 87

Mark Blicavs 82

Jed Bews 79

Isaac Smith 79

Mark O’Connor 77

Tom Hawkins 74

Jeremy Cameron 73

Brandan Parfitt 70

Joel Selwood 70

Cameron Guthrie 68

Sam Menegola 49

Zach Guthrie 47

Gryan Miers 46

Shaun Higgins 44

Charlie Constable 43

Gary Rohan 42

Francis Evans 38

Zach Tuohy 38

Sam De Koning 34

Jack Henry 34

Jake Kolodjashnij 33

BOMBERS

Expect the KFC SuperCoach popularity of Zach Merrett ($620,900 MID) to shoot up after a slick 37-disposal performance. He has been one of the most reliable SuperCoach midfielders of recent seasons and looks set to pick up from where he left off last season (personal pest average 115.6). Jordan Ridley ($547,700 DEF) is a very viable option down back, but there are some concerns over mid-pricer Dyson Heppell ($319,100 MID) who looked in good shape gathering 21 disposals, but scored just 53 points. Speaking of alarm bells, practice match surprise packet Alec Waterman ($102,400 FWD) scored just 13 after playing only 25 per cent game time.

Zach Merrett 126

Jordan Ridley 110

Darcy Parish 89

Peter Wright 89

Jye Caldwell 87

Kyle Langford 85

Jayden Laverde 79

Cale Hooker 76

Devon Smith 74

Andrew McGrath 72

Sam Draper 71

Dylan Shiel 68

Anthony McDonald-Tipungwuti 63

Nick Hind 60

Dyson Heppell 53

Ned Cahill 52

Aaron Francis 48

Harrison Jones 43

Will Snelling 36

Nikolas Cox 32

Nick Bryan 29

Brayden Ham 28

Martin Gleeson 24

James Stewart 24

Alec Waterman 13

Archie Perkins 3

Tom Phillips was dominant against North Melbourne. Picture: Getty Images
NORTH MELBOURNE V HAWTHORN
ROOS

Mid-pricers have been taunting KFC SuperCoaches for most of pre-season but Luke Davies-Uniacke might be the real deal. A $432k midfielder, the tough on-baller was dominant in the clinches against the Hawks. Dom Tyson ($243k MID) looms as a potential bolter after a three-goal outing, while $257k FWD Jack Ziebell all but confirmed himself as a lock for Round 1 playing in his new defensive role. He even took a few kick-outs.

Luke Davies-Uniacke 122

Dom Tyson 111

Jack Ziebell 107

Josh Walker 105

Jaidyn Stephenson 91

Aidan Corr 85

Jy Simpkin 78

Kayne Turner 76

Tarryn Thomas 75

Todd Goldstein 68

Shaun Atley 62

Tom Powell 57

Nick Larkey 50

Lachie Young 50

Kyron Hayden 46

Luke McDonald 46

Ben McKay 44

Atu Bosenavulagi 38

Bailey Scott 36

Cameron Zurhaar 35

Tom Campbell 28

Curtis Taylor 27

Charlie Lazzaro 21

Will Phillips 19

Jack Mahony 16

Phoenix Spicer 8

HAWKS

Tom Phillips F2 anyone? At $402k, the former Pie represents serious value for a player who averaged 90 in 2018 and will get more time on the inside as a Hawk — especially with Tom Mitchell in doubt for Round 1. Jacob Koschitzke won’t kick six goals every week but if you need a defensive rookie, at least we know he’ll be playing Round 1. Eyebrows were raised when Gilbert Gardiner had Changkuoth Jiath ($266k DEF) in his seven must-haves in January..well it’s time we eat humble pie after this intercepting masterclass. Tyler Brockman’s 80 sent his ownership skyrocketing.

Liam Shiels 144

Tom Phillips 134

Jacob Koschitzke 130

Harry Morrison 127

Changkuoth Jiath 123

Dylan Moore 108

Jonathon Ceglar 92

Ben McEvoy 87

James Worpel 80

Oliver Hanrahan 80

Tyler Brockman 80

Blake Hardwick 65

Will Day 65

Conor Nash 64

Daniel Howe 62

Sam Frost 55

Kyle Hartigan 55

Tim O’Brien 51

Shaun Burgoyne 50

Connor Downie 40

Jarman Impey 39

Damon Greaves 35

Lachlan Bramble 29

Michael Hartley 0

Finn Maginness 0

COLLINGWOOD v RICHMOND
MAGPIES

Jordan De Goey ($435,200 FWD) was the beneficiary of Steele Sidebottom’s injury, spending more time in the middle, attending the second-most centre bounces for the Pies and tallying 27 disposals and five clearances. Only Jack Crisp ($533,200 DEF) won more of the ball, finishing with a team-high 130 points, on the back of 29 touches. Jeremy Howe ($517,900 DEF) had 20 disposals in a half while mid-price options Brayden Sier ($313,800 MID) and Isaac Quaynor ($404,300 DEF) did enough to stay in the minds of KFC SuperCoaches. But it wasn’t a good night for the rookie-price Magpies, with Trent Bianco ($123,900 MID) failing to play any minutes and Oliver Henry ($135,800 FWD) struggling to have much of an impact.

Jack Crisp 130

Brodie Grundy 118

Brayden Maynard 107

Scott Pendlebury 104

Jordan De Goey 100

Jeremy Howe 90

Mason Cox 84

John Noble 80

Brayden Sier 76

Isaac Quaynor 73

Darcy Moore 71

Darcy Cameron 67

Josh Thomas 63

Tyler Brown 58

Jack Madgen 58

Josh Daicos 56

Jamie Elliott 55

Jordan Roughead 52

Callum L. Brown 49

Will Hoskin-Elliott 28

Trey Ruscoe 26

Will Kelly 11

Steele Sidebottom 8

Oliver Henry 7

Trent Bianco 0

Levi Greenwood 0

Jayden Short racked up 43 disposals. Picture: Getty Images
TIGERS

Jayden Short ($519,300 DEF) was the KFC SuperCoach story of Friday’s clash with his ownership jumping 7.4 per cent overnight after the running defender did as he pleased against the Magpies. Short tallied 43 disposals and 12 marks, on his way to a game-high 164 points. Josh Caddy ($335,100 MID) had 29 disposals on a wing but we’ve seen that in the pre-season before, while Dustin Martin ($541,600 FWD) cruised to 70 points, from 23 disposals, in three quarters. Richmond’s rookie-price midfield hope Riley Collier-Dawkins ($123,900 MID) showed enough to suggest he’s ready, attending eight centre bounces and recording eight disposals in 39 per cent game-time. But will it be enough?


Jayden Short 165

Josh Caddy 101

Jack Riewoldt 98

Shane Edwards 98

Kamdyn McIntosh 95

Liam Baker 93

Jack Graham 78

Nick Vlastuin 77

Jason Castagna 76

Dustin Martin 70

David Astbury 69

Kane Lambert 69

Toby Nankervis 62

Dylan Grimes 61

Callum Coleman-Jones 59

Marlion Pickett 56

Shai Bolton 54

Daniel Rioli 52

Nathan Broad 49

Mabior Chol 45

Noah Balta 42

Trent Cotchin 41

Jake Aarts 40

Derek Eggmolesse-Smith 34

Will Martyn 26

Riley Collier-Dawkins 16

CARLTON V ST KILDA

Zac Williams impressed in his first official game as a Blue. Picture: Michael Klein
BLUES

Jack Silvagni ($257,400 FWD) topscored for Carlton, booting 3.1 from his 17 disposals, but Williams’ ($458,600 DEF) first half was the highlight for KFC SuperCoaches. The former Giant had 10 disposals, five clearances, five tackles, two goals and 64 points by halftime and finished with 82 from 72 per cent game time. Fellow recruit Adam Saad ($526,200) also impressed with 21 disposals and a long-range goal while young gun Sam Walsh ($543,300 MID), who also spent time on the bench in the final term, attended more centre bounces than any other Blue, on his way to a team-high 25 disposals in 75 per cent game time. His ball use was the only thing to let him down slightly. The midfield role was again there for Paddy Dow ($202,400 MID-FWD) but skipper Patrick Cripps’ ($523,700 MID) time deep inside-50 was a concern.

Jack Silvagni 107

Marc Pittonet 101

Liam Jones 93

Marc Murphy 88

Adam Saad 86

Zac Williams 82

Zac Fisher 82

Sam Docherty 76

Oscar McDonald 74

Patrick Cripps 69

Will Setterfield 66

Lachie Fogarty 64

Jacob Weitering 63

Sam Walsh 61

Sam Petrevski-Seton 56

Paddy Dow 54

Ed Curnow 52

Lachie Plowman 44

David Cuningham 42

Lochie O’Brien 39

Jack Newnes 38

Jack Martin 35

Tom Williamson 32

Callum Moore 14

Michael Gibbons 0

Harry McKay -3

Jack Higgins found plenty of the ball for the Saints. Picture: AFL Photos via Getty Images
SAINTS

The Jacks were back at it on Thursday night. Jack Sinclair ($426,600 MID) was the KFC SuperCoach star, tallying a game-high 28 disposals and 130 points, while co-captain Jack Steele ($658,000 MID) picked up where he left off with a typically prolific display, finishing with 27 disposals and 101 points. But former Tiger Higgins ($419,600 FWD) could be the story of the night, backing up an impressive practice match performance with 24 disposals, seven marks, three goal assists, one goal and 104 points to put his hand up in the mid-price bracket in the forward line. SSP rookie Paul Hunter ($102,400) has KFC SuperCoach crying out for an extra ruck bench spot while Tom Highmore ($117,300) is firming for a Round 1 star after a solid display - and James Frawley’s injury.

Jack Sinclair 130

Shaun McKernan 109

Bradley Hill 105

Jack Lonie 105

Jack Higgins 104

Jack Steele 101

Sebastian Ross 97

Hunter Clark 96

Tim Membrey 94

Jade Gresham 80

Paul Hunter 77

Callum Wilkie 75

Jimmy Webster 72

Nick Coffield 67

Jack Billings 66

Ben Long 65

Dougal Howard 64

Max King 58

Brad Crouch 50

Dan Butler 47

Thomas Highmore 47

Josh Battle 31

Daniel McKenzie 19

Jack Bytel 19

Mason Wood 10

James Frawley -1

 

[sethlad]

How many forward premiums are you starting?
"JordsSupercoach: One — Tom Phillips"

Is there two Tom Phillips?

 

[Professor]

First five rounds of AFL season to reveal true impact of new rules, Mark Robinson writes
It’s only been one weekend of practice matches but the new rules have already had a major impact and it could spark backlash for the AFL.

Mark Robinson

5 min read
March 10, 2021 - 10:00AM
News Corp Australia Sports Newsroom





FOXSPORTS1:25
New stars shine for Port in massive win over Crows
AFL: New recruits Orazio Fantasia and Aliir Aliir have starred in Port Adelaide's pre-season demolition of the Adelaide Crows.


Port Adelaide coach Ken Hinkley sensed something was weird the more the game was played out.
By the end Port, had taken 190 marks.
Adelaide was meek at best and pitiful at worst but, still, 190 marks in a game footy is insane.

If this was a regular season game, 190 marks would’ve been the most taken in a single match in the history of the game.
And under new rules, Hinkley believes even more marks could be taken in a game this season.
“It’s clearly a big number and the way the game is played it gives you the opportunity to mark the ball more often that not,” Hinkley told the Herald Sun.
“And potentially that number could be beaten during the year.
“It will depend on what day you have and what game you get.
“We sensed there were a lot of marks, but there was no intent to take a lot of marks.”


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After one weekend of pre-season matches — and as coaches, players, media and fans assess the results of changes to the game — there’s no doubt the game has more ball movement and less congestion.
Five Port players took 10 or more marks against the Crows.
It’s time to register for Australia’s best fantasy footy game – KFC SuperCoach. Register now at supercoach.com.au >

Port Adelaide broke the marks record in the pre-season clash against Adelaide. Picture: Getty
Dan Houston (16 marks) and Aliir Aliir (14) were prevalent in defence because the Crows lost shape ahead of the ball and Riley Bonner (15), Zak Butters (10) and Ollie Wines (10) roamed the midfield.
Hinkley said it was not about changing their game style from being a surge, clearance, forward-half team to a kick-and-pop team.
“I’d like to think we are composed footy team, whether that’s by using speed or the option of marking the ball,’’ he said.
“But the way we … expect our game to be high intense.’’
Port’s marking number was the hysterical statistic from the pre-season weekend.
But Richmond’s marking number, while less dramatic, was stark for coach Damien Hardwick.
The Tigers recorded 136 marks against Collingwood on Friday night.
Last season, they averaged a normalised 85.4 marks per match.
“We took 120 uncontested marks; that’s normally a two-game total for us,’’ Hardwick said in his post-match interview.
“It’s a different look and we’ll do a little bit of work on that and see whether it’s something we have to work our way through.”
By extension, pressure was markedly down in the pre-season.
Pressure is categorised as tackling and harassing and corralling.

Mark stats were up during the pre-season matches. Picture: Michael Klein
Last year’s league average was 185. At the weekend it dropped to 171.
In the Port Adelaide and Richmond games, it was difficult to try to tackle/harass when so many marks were taken.
It has to be noted, the two worst pressure teams were Adelaide and Collingwood.
Last season the Dons recorded two of the three worst pressure games — 155 against Melbourne in Round 18 and 162 against Fremantle in Round 1 — so new coach Ben Rutten would be thrilled with that number.
Overall, tackles dropped from an average 63 last season to 49 at the weekend.
Fox Footy analyst David King said several times in commentary the pressure applied between the arcs had diminished.
Tackles in that zone dropped from 39 to 31.
True, the data is one weekend old, and they were practice matches, but could footy replace the rolling maul with a game of keepings off?
We’ll know more after five rounds.
HOW CATS CAN CASH IN ON NEW RULES
- By Jon Ralph
Geelong premiership star Cam Mooney says new AFL rules will drag back the leading forward from the verge of football extinction.
And the beloved Cats key forward says Geelong must cash in with its two power forwards and win that elusive premiership by quicker ball movement through the corridor.
Fox Footy expert Mooney said he had feared the art of hitting up at the ball carrier as a forward had been dying out given zoning defences and slow ball movement.
The league’s game analysis committee will now meet on Friday to consider the fallout from the changes, which include 75 interchanges, freezing the man on the mark and a deeper launch zone from full back.

The Cats will be hard to stop with Jeremy Cameron and Tom Hawkins inside 50. Picture: Michael Klein
But the Herald Sun reported on Monday proposed tweaks to give umpires more discretion are likely not needed given the pace at which players have adjusted to the changes.
Some clubs had players kicking out who regularly reached the centre square as scores skyrocketed from 75 points in 2020 (normalised for game length) to 88,6 points for what was admittedly a single AAMI series round.
Clubs will put in place defensive mechanisms to slow ball movement but after only five 50m penalties for players moving on the mark the league is already thrilled with the implementation of the changes.
For a club like Geelong with dual Coleman Medallists in Tom Hawkins and Jeremy Cameron it could give them a distinct competitive advantage.
“The one thing I have hated in our game for a while is the lead-up forward has died out,” Mooney told the Herald Sun.
“That was virtually my game and you don’t see those blokes any more. Thankfully in the last 12 months clubs have left a big power forward like Tom Hawkins or Dustin Martin inside 50, but I watched the games on the weekend and watched live at Geelong and it’s going to be a brilliant rule.
“It’s going to quicken the game up. Unfortunately we might see some injuries early which we have already have, but I would cop that over seeing the game improve from a scoring perspective.

“This is like watching Geelong in its heyday when they took it fast up the middle.”
Mooney is embracing Geelong’s aggressive trade and free agency attitude which has brought them a trio of experienced stars in Isaac Smith, Jeremy Cameron and Shaun Higgins.
“From Geelong’s point of view this is as good a chance as they will get (to win a flag again),” he said of a team which has fallen agonisingly short on repeat occasions since the trio of premierships from 2007-2011.
“I loved it when they went and got Cameron and then Smith and Higgins, they just bring a bit of class. Whether it gets them over the line we will wait and see.
“I still think Geelong need to move the ball quicker. Even on Saturday night (against Essendon) when they moved it slow, they are defended pretty easily.”
Mooney says scores will increase not only because of greater ball speed but because of the capacity of forwards to take marks in front of goal.
More Coverage
Robbo v Mick: Why we can’t agree on new mark ruleHocking: Why 50m penalty works for breaking new mark rule
Tom Hawkins kicked 49.36 last year despite relentlessly being forced wide on his leads and often being forced to kick from deep in the pockets.
“Any time you can move the ball quick before a defence settles you will get easier shots. It’s the golden rule. You want more goals from both Hawkins and Cameron but Geelong doesn’t need them kicking all the goals, good teams share the load,” he said.

 

[GrainFedBeef]

Going to be interesting how coaches respond, whether man standing on mark protecting inside of corridor rather than where mark is taken slows the ball movement. Do other players protect the corridor and does it allow an easier mark if you go down the wing.

 

[Erek22]

https://www.heraldsun.com.au/sport/...n/news-story/bd269b12b395fc82b11c4f90f5d05028
KFC SuperCoach Plus: The 11 things we learned in pre-season
Roos coach David Noble has revealed his plans for a forgotten midfielder and a potential KFC SuperCoach bargain. Plus GWS’ ruck battle and all the pre-season news.

SC Plus Article

9 min read
March 12, 2021 - 11:31AM
News Corp Australia Sports Newsroom

0 comments

With the pre-season over, time is running out for KFC SuperCoaches to lock in their team for Round 1.

While our rookie bible has been updated, the top-20 mid-pricers have been revealed and Al Paton has revealed his top cash cows of 2021, the intel which has slipped under the radar is what can set your team apart.
We’ve dug back through the games and the KFC SuperCoach Plus stats to find the nuggets other coaches might have missed to help finalise your team.

1. THERE IS FIERCE COMPETITION FOR RUCK BENCH SPOT
The R3 position is often used by KFC SuperCoaches to hide away a player we know won’t ever take the field. But this year is very different.
Giant Matt Flynn was a popular pick after Braydon Preuss suffered a shoulder injury, but now there are doubts over his role (see below).
But don’t panic. There are two more players lining up to challenge for the R3 spot.
Rory Lobb’s knee injury has given 203cm Fremantle ruckman Lloyd Meek ($123,900 RUC) a fast lane to a Round 1 debut against Melbourne and the No.1 KFC SuperCoach scorer of 2020, Max Gawn. And don’t let the possible return from injury of Sean Darcy put you off picking Meek, who averaged 87 ranking points from seven WAFL games in 2019. Dockers coach Justin Longmuir hinted after his side’s pre-season loss to West Coast the pair could play in the same team: “I thought he performed really well again,” he said of Meek. “He competed really hard, tried his best to nullify Nic in the ruck … I think he’s firming for Round 1.”
Meanwhile, St Kilda’s recent Supplementary Selection Period signing Paul Hunter ($102,400 RUC) will lead the Saints’ ruck division in the absence of Rowan Marshall (foot) and Paddy Ryder, who has requested personal leave from the club.
“Four weeks ago Paul Hunter wasn’t even at our football club but within four weeks he’s going to play Round 1. It’s amazing,” Saints coach Brett Ratten said on Wednesday night.
Hunter, who was on Adelaide’s list from 2016-19 without playing a senior game, put up some huge numbers in the SANFL last season.
Playing for South Adelaide, he averaged 16.76 disposals, 30 hitouts and 136 SuperCoach points, with a lowest score of 94. He scored 77 points against Carlton last Friday night.

2. THE ‘CASH COW OF THE YEAR’ MIGHT NOT PLAY ROUND 1
When Leon Cameron says the Giants’ ruck situation is “intriguing”, you just know KFC SuperCoaches are going to be left sweating.
Matt Flynn was supposed to generate cash from R3 for most of the season — bar the odd appearance from Shane Mumford — after Braydon Preuss was ruled out for 4-5 months. But Flynn could not have rolled his ankle at a worse time, missing the Giants’ win over Sydney in their last pre-season hitout.
Kieren Briggs ($123,900 DEF/FWD) filled the ruck role in that game and had 22 hitouts, five disposals and kicked a goal to tally 81 KFC SuperCoach points.
Here’s what Cameron said post-match: “Our rucks (are) an intriguing part at the moment. Matty Flynn would have played this week, but he rolled his ankle. We expect him to be right for Round 1. But young Kieren Briggs jumped up today … he got his opportunity in his third year and he really grabbed it with both hands. His centre bounce work was terrific. We’ve got spots up for that ruck … it will be interesting to see who fights that out for those two boys.”

3. BRISBANE HAS A ROUND 1 BOLTER
Cam Rayner’s ACL injury gave youngster Harry Sharp ($117,300 DEF/MID) the chance to press his claims for Round 1, and he did not disappoint against Gold Coast.
Sharp had 10 disposals and kicked a goal in about 50 per cent game time, recording 52 KFC SuperCoach points. The Lions do not lack options to replace Rayner, with Zach Bailey already slated for greater midfield time.
But Chris Fagan was clearly impressed by what he saw from Sharp, telling reporters after his side’s victory over the Suns: “It was a pleasant surprise to see him do so well tonight, I must say. The plan was to give him a quarter at the end of the game but he ended up coming on for Cam. He got a bit more time than he bargained for.”
Maybe the defensive rookie we have been craving might come from an unlikely source. “He looks like he’s going to be able to play at the level at some point in time,” Fagan said.

4. DOGS BULLISH ABOUT STATE LEAGUE DUO
As KFC SuperCoaches clamoured to add premiums Caleb Daniel, Marcus Bontempelli and Jack Macrae after they dominated Melbourne, many would have missed VFL draftee Anthony Scott.
Available for a bargain basement $102,400 and with FWD/MID swing, the 2019 Footscray best-and-fairest has had an eye-catching pre-season playing as a small defender. He was named ahead of Jason Johannisen against Melbourne, so clearly has his admirers. Scott scored 79 KFC SuperCoach points against the Demons and will rocket above 10 per cent of teams if there’s any suggestion he’ll debut in Round 1.
Lachlan McNeil ($102,400 FWD), another state league draftee, also had some nice moments against Melbourne. But as a small forward, his KFC SuperCoach scoring is likely to be more volatile.
Coach Luke Beveridge said post-match the pair “haven’t put a foot wrong” and “promise to be really important players for us in the future”.

5. SAINTS DEFENSIVE DEPTH COULD BE A PROBLEM … FOR US
Depth is a godsend for coaches — unless you’re talking KFC SuperCoaches. Saints coach Brett Ratten didn’t have to think too hard when he reeled off the options available to him to replace injured recruit James Frawley, who is set to miss up to 10 weeks after hurting his hamstring.
Quizzed about potential Frawley replacements after his side defeated Carlton, Ratten mentioned Jake Carlisle, Tom Highmore, Darragh Joyce and suggested Jimmy Webster or Nick Coffield could step in as a third tall.
That would hardly have filled KFC SuperCoaches with confidence SANFL product Highmore ($117,300 DEF) will debut after originally only being slated for one quarter against the Blues. At least Frawley’s injury meant he got greater game time to try and put his hand up.

6. THE CATS ARE PLAYING DOWN CLARK HYPE
KFC SuperCoaches thought the defensive rookie crisis had been solved — at least to an extent — when Jordan Clark was close to best on ground in Geelong’s pre-season win over Essendon.
It didn’t take long before reality set in, though, when assistant coach Matthew Knights played down any ideas Clark was suddenly a certainty for a Round 1 berth. After praising Clark’s performance, Knights added: “He’s certainly improving as a player and he’s giving himself a chance to be up for selection Round 1. But that’s yet to be decided. You’re still there with 26 tonight so it’s a bit of a false economy … and we might have some players coming back into that line-up also.”
The Cats still have Mitch Duncan to return and their squad will be squeezed from 26 in pre-season to 22. But surely Clark can’t be left out after having 29 disposals, kicking 1.2 and taking 10 marks against the Bombers?
His DPP is great, but the last thing you need is to pay $241k for a player who gets dropped a few rounds into the season.

 

[Erek22]

7. GET USED TO DE GOEY THE MIDFIELDER
The Dusty comparisons started almost immediately. But it was hard not to take notice of the extra time Jordan De Goey ($435,200 FWD) spent as an onballer in Collingwood’s loss to Richmond.
De Goey attended an equal team-high 19 centre bounces against the Tigers after the Magpies lost Steele Sidebottom to a calf injury. That blow will no doubt have forced Nathan Buckley to amp up De Goey’s time in the middle, especially with Taylor Adams still sidelined. After 27 disposals and 2.2 against the Tigers, will Buckley be able to resist the temptation of De Goey being a greater midfield threat?
“He played nearly exclusively mid and the ball spent a lot of time in our back half, so he was probably happier being a midfielder than sitting forward and not having it come to him. We will explore that,” Buckley said.
It might be what helps him take the next step from an average of 80-85 to a genuine KFC SuperCoach forward premium.

Collingwood captain Scott Pendlebury spoke about Jordan De Goey playing forward, Eddie McGuire stepping down as club president and the new on-the-mark rule changes for the 2021 season

8. MERRETT MAY HAVE GONE TO ANOTHER LEVEL
Sometimes it’s the little things the best players do which make them a better KFC SuperCoach option than their rivals — think the knock-ons which lead to goals Marcus Bontempelli is so often involved in.
No one doubts Zach Merrett’s ability to find the ball, but perhaps the best sign the Essendon midfielder is set for a dominant campaign was the pressure he applied against Geelong. Bombers coach Ben Rutten noted post-match Merrett’s pressure points were equal to the career-best pressure numbers he posted in 2019.
“(He performed) outstanding tonight in all phases of the game. We know how good Zach is with the ball, but I think 50-60 pressure points as well just shows his level of determination and his application to his game.”
Merrett’s ownership has surged to 18 per cent since scoring 126 against the Cats.

9. WHY WAS JOSH DUNKLEY BACK IN THE RUCK?
Luke Beveridge must have known the questions were coming about Josh Dunkley. And while he suggested his earlier comments that Dunkley’s spot in the team was in jeopardy had been overblown, some KFC SuperCoaches will have noticed Dunkley being used in the ruck — at least once — against Melbourne. But don’t fret KFC SuperCoaches, it certainly wasn’t intentional.
“It was by accident today. It didn’t happen very often last year, actually,” Beveridge said.
“Whether it was Jack Macrae or Marcus Bontempelli or Dunks being that extra ruckman. Usually at centre bounce, we’d at least have Josh Bruce or Tim English there last year.” Beveridge said on Monday a miscommunication where English and Bruce stayed forward was to blame. Although Adam Treloar is still due to return, Dunkley’s effort against the Demons (170 KFC SuperCoach points) showed how dominant he can be as a centre-bounce midfielder.

10. DOM TYSON IS A KFC SUPERCOACH SLEEPER
Our KFC SuperCoach BBL investor Daniel Begala is a fan, and so is North Melbourne coach David Noble. It’s been five years since Dom Tyson ($243,900 MID) averaged 90 in KFC SuperCoach and the oft-injured midfielder has only managed three games in the past two years. But of all the options $200k-$250k in KFC SuperCoach, Tyson is the one who has slipped under the radar.
Tyson scored 111 KFC SuperCoach points against Hawthorn and could prove a midfield cash cow. Certainly, Noble is planning for the ex-Giant and Demon to be an important part of his Roos engine room: “I like what he can actually bring to our team. He’s got great hands, he reads the ball really well in that stoppage. He can play a various number of roles, too — go half-back, wing, midfield, which helps with your rotations. I’m pleased for him. He’s put a lot of hard effort and hard work in.”

11. HAWK REINFORCEMENTS MIGHT BE AN ISSUE
Most KFC SuperCoaches are expecting Tyler Brockman ($117,300 FWD/MID) and Connor Downie ($117,300 MID) will be locks for Hawthorn’s Round 1 team — and the rookies may well be. But it’s worth noting the cavalry the Hawks have to come back, something Alastair Clarkson mentioned after his team’s win over North Melbourne.
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KFC SuperCoach’s key pre-season questions answered
Clarkson noted the Hawks had six or seven players out of their best side in that pre-season game and they include walk-up starts such as Tom Mitchell and Chad Wingard. Don’t rule Brockman or Downie out of your plans as they’ve likely played themselves into Round 1 calculations. But be mindful their senior run could be a short one, pending form of course.

 

[PC]

I just know that Scott is going to **** over and troll SC players this season with the standard Cats practice of late outs and non selections. Might take Clark out just to pre empt the need for a rant rampage.