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KFC SuperCoach 2022: Champion Data runs the rule over every club to find the best picks
With Round 1 just two days away, the stats gurus at Champion Data run the rule over every team to find the best selections for your KFC SuperCoach team.
Fantasy Freako
15 min read
March 14, 2022 - 12:35PM
News Corp Australia Sports Newsroom
00:35
AFL captains choose SuperCoach must-haves
AFL captains tell us who from their teams you should be picking in your SuperCoach team
View more related videos
After a summer of pre-season hype, players looking fitter than ever, intra-club, unofficial and official practice matches, Round 1 is just days away.
The stats gurus at Champion Data put every club under the microscope to find who to select – and who to avoid – in KFC SuperCoach this season.
Scroll down to see all the KFC SuperCoach scores for the AAMI Community Series and key stats including points per minute.
ADELAIDE
Jordan Dawson $550,300 DEF – Cross
We haven’t seen Dawson during the pre-season due to a calf complaint, which places a question mark on his selection in KFC SuperCoach. He was also only running laps at training this week. When he plays though, he’s likely to share his time between the wing and centre bounces. Dawson racked up a career-high 158 points in Round 23 last season.
Matt Crouch $482,000 MID – Tick
Crouch’s ball-winning credentials are well-documented – ranking second in the competition for disposals per minute when he last played in 2020. He has slowly built up his fitness base in recent weeks and won a team-high 31 disposals against the Power in the AAMI Community Series. With Rory Laird sidelined for up to six weeks, the onus will be on Crouch to get the Crows going in the midfield.
MORE: FANTASY FREAKO REVEALS HIS SUPERCOACH TEAM
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Josh Rachele is primed to make his AFL debut in Round 1. Picture: Sarah Reed
Josh Rachele $184,800 FWD/MID – Tick
Rachele oozes class and we have already seen this in his two pre-season appearances. He booted a team-high three goals against the Power and was involved in six scoring chains. His defensive effort has somewhat gone unnoticed, recording a game-high nine tackles but, more importantly, he also had a tackle efficiency of 100 per cent. He’s a lock to debut in Round 1.
BRISBANE LIONS
Jarrod Berry $268,500 MID – Tick
Berry never got going last season, having three separate stints on the sidelines with injury – averaging a career-low 50 points in the process. That has reduced his starting price significantly and after a strong pre-season, he currently sits in 25 per cent of all teams at the time of writing. Berry attended 11 centre bounces against the Bulldogs, scoring 80 points from 19 disposals.
Lachie Neale $543,200 MID – Tick
After a faultless pre-season, Neale looks set for a bounce-back season. His average of 99.8 last year was his equal-lowest since 2015 – topping 100 points just five times. He’s back hunting the ball, winning a team-high 23 disposals in general play in the AAMI Community Series – collecting 106 points along the way.
Lachie Neale is ready to return to his best this season. Picture: Michael Willson/AFL Photos via Getty Images
Keidean Coleman $263,200 DEF/FWD – Cross
Coleman’s future looks to be in defence after he made the switch in Round 21 last year. Add to that the retirement of Grant Birchall, and we could see Coleman become a key player for the Lions. But a hamstring injury has halted his progress and he’s now out for up to 10 weeks. Currently sitting in 5 per cent of teams at the time of writing, he must be replaced ASAP!
CARLTON
George Hewett $399,000 DEF/MID – Tick
The injury to Sam Walsh enhances Hewett’s stocks significantly. Scoring 100-plus points in each of his last three games for Sydney, Hewett has already been busy in the midfield this pre-season, gathering 33 disposals against the Demons. He also attended 24 centre bounces – with only Patrick Cripps (26) attending more.
Patrick Cripps $454,800 MID – Tick
Averaging his fewest points since his debut season in 2014, Cripps was well below his best in 2021. It makes him a much more affordable option this season and on the back of a starring role in the AAMI Community Series, he’s back in our thoughts. Cripps finished with 30 disposals, four goals and 149 points.
Mitch McGovern is thriving in a new role in defence. Picture: Michael Willson/AFL Photos via Getty Images
Mitch McGovern $256,000 FWD – Question mark
New rules that allow player to earn DPP status during the season make McGovern an intriguing fantasy selection. A forward in KFC SuperCoach, he’ll likely gain defender status, but is he worth the risk? McGovern has missed a total of 35 games through injury in the past four seasons but he looks to be rejuvenated as a defender. If you’re brave, go for it!
COLLINGWOOD
Nick Daicos $193,800 MID – Tick
Daicos’s selection is a no-brainer. He didn’t miss a beat in the AAMI Community Series and was one of only 16 players in the competition to have more than 30 disposals – gathering 31 against the Giants. He dominated in the NAB League last year, averaging 36 disposals, two goals and 159 points.
Jack Crisp $571,000 DEF/MID – Tick
In terms of durability, no player in the competition comes close to Crisp – playing 163 games in succession. That makes him the safest pick in the game. Another feather in his cap is his pending midfield role, attending a team-high 16 centre bounces in the AAMI Community Series. He finished with 25 disposals, six inside-50s, three score assists and 111 points.
Father-son recruit Nick Daicos has stepped straight in the Magpie midfield. Picture: Daniel Pockett/Getty Images
Charlie Dean $102,400 DEF – Cross
The injury to Jordan Roughead had opened the door for Dean to step in and play, but a foot injury has put an end to that. Still in 19 per cent of teams at the time of writing, he needs to be offloaded ahead of Round 1. He’ll be a handy trade-down target in the second half of the year after averaging 94 points and 10 intercept possessions in his last five games in the VFL in 2021.
ESSENDON
Jye Caldwell $266,700 MID – Tick
Caldwell attended 16 centre bounces and had 22 disposals and nine tackles on his Bombers debut in Round 1 last season but then injury hit. But with plenty of midfield depth at the Bombers, can we rely on him getting plenty of time in the middle? He attended 12 centre bounces in the AAMI Community Series and scored 111 points – ranked third on the ground.
Nick Martin $102,400 FWD – Tick
Martin has only recently been added to Essendon’s list, but he showed enough against the Saints to suggest that he may be in line for an AFL debut. Starting on the wing, he played in the second half and had 12 disposals in the third term – collecting a game-high 16 for the half. He also scored 50 points to cap off a strong performance.
The arrival of Jake Kelly has freed up Jordan Ridley. Picture: NCA NewsWire / Daniel Pockett
Jordan Ridley $537,100 DEF – Tick
Ridley started last season in blazing fashion, averaging 133 points in the first month before injury struck. He averaged 94 points after his return, which was a solid return. Ridley played on from all five kick-ins in the AAMI Community Series – finishing with 19 disposals, four intercept marks and 10 intercept possessions.
With Round 1 just two days away, the stats gurus at Champion Data run the rule over every team to find the best selections for your KFC SuperCoach team.
Fantasy Freako
15 min read
March 14, 2022 - 12:35PM
News Corp Australia Sports Newsroom
00:35
AFL captains choose SuperCoach must-haves
AFL captains tell us who from their teams you should be picking in your SuperCoach team
View more related videos
After a summer of pre-season hype, players looking fitter than ever, intra-club, unofficial and official practice matches, Round 1 is just days away.
The stats gurus at Champion Data put every club under the microscope to find who to select – and who to avoid – in KFC SuperCoach this season.
Scroll down to see all the KFC SuperCoach scores for the AAMI Community Series and key stats including points per minute.
ADELAIDE
Jordan Dawson $550,300 DEF – Cross
We haven’t seen Dawson during the pre-season due to a calf complaint, which places a question mark on his selection in KFC SuperCoach. He was also only running laps at training this week. When he plays though, he’s likely to share his time between the wing and centre bounces. Dawson racked up a career-high 158 points in Round 23 last season.
Matt Crouch $482,000 MID – Tick
Crouch’s ball-winning credentials are well-documented – ranking second in the competition for disposals per minute when he last played in 2020. He has slowly built up his fitness base in recent weeks and won a team-high 31 disposals against the Power in the AAMI Community Series. With Rory Laird sidelined for up to six weeks, the onus will be on Crouch to get the Crows going in the midfield.
MORE: FANTASY FREAKO REVEALS HIS SUPERCOACH TEAM
FROM OUR PARTNERS
Join host Andrew Bucklow for a dive into the day’s biggest stories. Listen now
Josh Rachele is primed to make his AFL debut in Round 1. Picture: Sarah Reed
Josh Rachele $184,800 FWD/MID – Tick
Rachele oozes class and we have already seen this in his two pre-season appearances. He booted a team-high three goals against the Power and was involved in six scoring chains. His defensive effort has somewhat gone unnoticed, recording a game-high nine tackles but, more importantly, he also had a tackle efficiency of 100 per cent. He’s a lock to debut in Round 1.
BRISBANE LIONS
Jarrod Berry $268,500 MID – Tick
Berry never got going last season, having three separate stints on the sidelines with injury – averaging a career-low 50 points in the process. That has reduced his starting price significantly and after a strong pre-season, he currently sits in 25 per cent of all teams at the time of writing. Berry attended 11 centre bounces against the Bulldogs, scoring 80 points from 19 disposals.
Lachie Neale $543,200 MID – Tick
After a faultless pre-season, Neale looks set for a bounce-back season. His average of 99.8 last year was his equal-lowest since 2015 – topping 100 points just five times. He’s back hunting the ball, winning a team-high 23 disposals in general play in the AAMI Community Series – collecting 106 points along the way.
Lachie Neale is ready to return to his best this season. Picture: Michael Willson/AFL Photos via Getty Images
Keidean Coleman $263,200 DEF/FWD – Cross
Coleman’s future looks to be in defence after he made the switch in Round 21 last year. Add to that the retirement of Grant Birchall, and we could see Coleman become a key player for the Lions. But a hamstring injury has halted his progress and he’s now out for up to 10 weeks. Currently sitting in 5 per cent of teams at the time of writing, he must be replaced ASAP!
CARLTON
George Hewett $399,000 DEF/MID – Tick
The injury to Sam Walsh enhances Hewett’s stocks significantly. Scoring 100-plus points in each of his last three games for Sydney, Hewett has already been busy in the midfield this pre-season, gathering 33 disposals against the Demons. He also attended 24 centre bounces – with only Patrick Cripps (26) attending more.
Patrick Cripps $454,800 MID – Tick
Averaging his fewest points since his debut season in 2014, Cripps was well below his best in 2021. It makes him a much more affordable option this season and on the back of a starring role in the AAMI Community Series, he’s back in our thoughts. Cripps finished with 30 disposals, four goals and 149 points.
Mitch McGovern is thriving in a new role in defence. Picture: Michael Willson/AFL Photos via Getty Images
Mitch McGovern $256,000 FWD – Question mark
New rules that allow player to earn DPP status during the season make McGovern an intriguing fantasy selection. A forward in KFC SuperCoach, he’ll likely gain defender status, but is he worth the risk? McGovern has missed a total of 35 games through injury in the past four seasons but he looks to be rejuvenated as a defender. If you’re brave, go for it!
COLLINGWOOD
Nick Daicos $193,800 MID – Tick
Daicos’s selection is a no-brainer. He didn’t miss a beat in the AAMI Community Series and was one of only 16 players in the competition to have more than 30 disposals – gathering 31 against the Giants. He dominated in the NAB League last year, averaging 36 disposals, two goals and 159 points.
Jack Crisp $571,000 DEF/MID – Tick
In terms of durability, no player in the competition comes close to Crisp – playing 163 games in succession. That makes him the safest pick in the game. Another feather in his cap is his pending midfield role, attending a team-high 16 centre bounces in the AAMI Community Series. He finished with 25 disposals, six inside-50s, three score assists and 111 points.
Father-son recruit Nick Daicos has stepped straight in the Magpie midfield. Picture: Daniel Pockett/Getty Images
Charlie Dean $102,400 DEF – Cross
The injury to Jordan Roughead had opened the door for Dean to step in and play, but a foot injury has put an end to that. Still in 19 per cent of teams at the time of writing, he needs to be offloaded ahead of Round 1. He’ll be a handy trade-down target in the second half of the year after averaging 94 points and 10 intercept possessions in his last five games in the VFL in 2021.
ESSENDON
Jye Caldwell $266,700 MID – Tick
Caldwell attended 16 centre bounces and had 22 disposals and nine tackles on his Bombers debut in Round 1 last season but then injury hit. But with plenty of midfield depth at the Bombers, can we rely on him getting plenty of time in the middle? He attended 12 centre bounces in the AAMI Community Series and scored 111 points – ranked third on the ground.
Nick Martin $102,400 FWD – Tick
Martin has only recently been added to Essendon’s list, but he showed enough against the Saints to suggest that he may be in line for an AFL debut. Starting on the wing, he played in the second half and had 12 disposals in the third term – collecting a game-high 16 for the half. He also scored 50 points to cap off a strong performance.
The arrival of Jake Kelly has freed up Jordan Ridley. Picture: NCA NewsWire / Daniel Pockett
Jordan Ridley $537,100 DEF – Tick
Ridley started last season in blazing fashion, averaging 133 points in the first month before injury struck. He averaged 94 points after his return, which was a solid return. Ridley played on from all five kick-ins in the AAMI Community Series – finishing with 19 disposals, four intercept marks and 10 intercept possessions.
FREMANTLE
Caleb Serong $451,000 MID – Tick
Serong is primed for a breakout season after racking up 30-plus disposals in each of his last three games last year. He was one of seven Dockers players to reach 100 points against the Eagles last week, finishing with 21 effective disposals, 17 uncontested possessions, six inside-50s and one score assist.
Sean Darcy $642,600 RUC – Question mark
The biggest question SuperCoaches face is whether to pay up for Darcy or go with the proven Max Gawn and Brodie Grundy at a similar price. Darcy was one of the most improved players in the AFL last year, topping 120 points in nine games. But his durability is a worry. He came off the ground injured nine times and even though he didn’t miss any games, it places somewhat of a question mark around him after an interrupted pre-season.
Sean Darcy can put up huge numbers, but can you trust his body? Picture: Paul Kane/Getty Images
Will Brodie $224,300 MID/FWD – Tick
Brodie has impressed in Fremantle’s midfield during the pre-season. He was busy against the Eagles in the AAMI Community Series, finishing with 23 disposals, four clearances and a game-high eight tackles. It remains to be seen what role he plays once Nat Fyfe returns, but hopefully for SuperCoaches he’s still in the midfield mix.
GEELONG
Mitch Duncan $540,000 MID/FWD – Question mark
Duncan’s DPP status in 2022 makes him one of the most obvious picks, however, there is one caveat – his durability. We have already seen him spend time on the sidelines in recent weeks and considering he has played all 22 home-and-away games just once since 2017, he’s a risky pick. Duncan missed a total of 12 games through injury last season.
Patrick Dangerfield $567,800 MID – Tick
We have to go way back to 2011 for the last time Dangerfield averaged fewer than 105 points. Injury and suspension kept him out for most of the first half of 2021, but he averaged 23 disposals, one goal and 107 points after the bye. With a measly ownership of just 2 per cent he’s the ultimate POD this year.
Sam De Koning is a rare defensive rookie likely to play in Round 1. Picture: Peter Ristevski
Sam De Koning $123,900 DEF/MID – Tick
De Koning looked right at home in Geelong’s defence against the Suns, collecting 19 disposals, five marks and six intercept possessions. The Cats are looking to inject some youth into their team in 2022 and he’s one of a handful of players in the mix for a Round 1 start. De Koning is the ideal bench option.
GOLD COAST
Matt Rowell $342,900 MID – Tick
Can Rowell recapture the form he showed in his debut season? The answer is a resounding yes! He finished with 27 disposals and 18 contested possessions against the Cats in the AAMI Community Series – both career-highs. Injury once again impacted his year in 2021, averaging just 14 disposals and 63 points, never scoring more than 84 in any match.
Elijah Hollands $123,900 FWD/MID – Question mark
Hollands could manage only three games in the VFL last season as he returned from a serious injury. We haven’t seen him at AFL level this pre-season and at the time of writing, close to half of the competition had selected the youngster. He’s unlikely to debut in Round 1 against West Coast, but I’m confident he won’t be too far away.
Matt Rowell starred in Gold Coast’s two pre-season games. Picture: Matt Roberts/AFL Photos/via Getty Images
Jack Lukosius $438,400 DEF/MID – Cross
A role change all but rules out Lukosius as a fantasy asset in 2022. The injury to Ben King has seen Lukosius move back into the forward line, after playing as a wing/half-back last season. He was even taking kick-ins last year, but as a forward, unless he’s kicking plenty of goals, he’s unlikely to post the scores we’re after.
GWS GIANTS
Lachie Whitfield $502,600 DEF/MID – Tick
The most obvious question mark around Whitfield is his durability – playing all 22 home-and-away games just once in nine seasons – but when fit he’s an exceptional fantasy player. He’s underpriced to start with and has had a full pre-season under his belt, which is always a good sign. Whitfield reached 125 points six times in a career-best season in 2019.
Stephen Coniglio $261,300 FWD/MID – Tick
The noise coming out of the Giants is that Coniglio hasn’t missed a beat all summer, and his pre-season backs that up. He’s back playing as a centre bounce midfielder again and had 27 disposals, 10 contested possessions, five tackles and 112 points against the Magpies. At his best, he averaged 27 disposals, one goal and 101 points in 2019.
Stephen Coniglio is one of the biggest bargains in KFC SuperCoach this year. Picture: Phil Hillyard
Tim Taranto $529,700 MID/FWD – Question mark
On the surface, Taranto playing as a half-forward isn’t ideal, but he has shown that he can post decent scores in that role, scoring 131 as a forward against the Tigers in Round 22 last season, but that was on the back of a four-goal haul. Initially, it may be wise to avoid him until Toby Greene returns, which makes him an excellent trade-up target.
HAWTHORN
James Sicily $448,100 DEF – Tick
Sicily’s return is a major boost for the Hawks. His intercept play was missed last season, averaging the equal-most intercept possessions of any current player in the AFL alongside Jeremy McGovern from 2018-20. Sicily played on from both kick-ins against the Tigers in the AAMI Community Series and scored 87 points from 14 effective disposals.
Josh Ward $180,300 MID – Tick
No player in the competition won more contested possessions in the AAMI Community Series than Ward. A ball magnet as a junior, he also ranked fifth in the competition for disposals per minute after racking up 29 against the Tigers. Both Tom Mitchell and Jaeger O’Meara were both missing from the team, but that shouldn’t take any of the gloss off Ward’s game.
Josh Ward was in brilliant form in the AAMI Community Series. Picture: Quinn Rooney/Getty Images
Connor MacDonald $117,300 MID – Tick
MacDonald, a ball magnet midfielder as a junior, hasn’t put a foot wrong over summer and is in the mix for a Round 1 debut against North Melbourne. He didn’t attend any centre bounces in the AAMI Community Series, but had an impact nonetheless – finishing with 16 disposals, eight contested possessions and one goal. Even if he doesn’t play in the season opener, he’s a solid bench option.
Caleb Serong $451,000 MID – Tick
Serong is primed for a breakout season after racking up 30-plus disposals in each of his last three games last year. He was one of seven Dockers players to reach 100 points against the Eagles last week, finishing with 21 effective disposals, 17 uncontested possessions, six inside-50s and one score assist.
Sean Darcy $642,600 RUC – Question mark
The biggest question SuperCoaches face is whether to pay up for Darcy or go with the proven Max Gawn and Brodie Grundy at a similar price. Darcy was one of the most improved players in the AFL last year, topping 120 points in nine games. But his durability is a worry. He came off the ground injured nine times and even though he didn’t miss any games, it places somewhat of a question mark around him after an interrupted pre-season.
Sean Darcy can put up huge numbers, but can you trust his body? Picture: Paul Kane/Getty Images
Will Brodie $224,300 MID/FWD – Tick
Brodie has impressed in Fremantle’s midfield during the pre-season. He was busy against the Eagles in the AAMI Community Series, finishing with 23 disposals, four clearances and a game-high eight tackles. It remains to be seen what role he plays once Nat Fyfe returns, but hopefully for SuperCoaches he’s still in the midfield mix.
GEELONG
Mitch Duncan $540,000 MID/FWD – Question mark
Duncan’s DPP status in 2022 makes him one of the most obvious picks, however, there is one caveat – his durability. We have already seen him spend time on the sidelines in recent weeks and considering he has played all 22 home-and-away games just once since 2017, he’s a risky pick. Duncan missed a total of 12 games through injury last season.
Patrick Dangerfield $567,800 MID – Tick
We have to go way back to 2011 for the last time Dangerfield averaged fewer than 105 points. Injury and suspension kept him out for most of the first half of 2021, but he averaged 23 disposals, one goal and 107 points after the bye. With a measly ownership of just 2 per cent he’s the ultimate POD this year.
Sam De Koning is a rare defensive rookie likely to play in Round 1. Picture: Peter Ristevski
Sam De Koning $123,900 DEF/MID – Tick
De Koning looked right at home in Geelong’s defence against the Suns, collecting 19 disposals, five marks and six intercept possessions. The Cats are looking to inject some youth into their team in 2022 and he’s one of a handful of players in the mix for a Round 1 start. De Koning is the ideal bench option.
GOLD COAST
Matt Rowell $342,900 MID – Tick
Can Rowell recapture the form he showed in his debut season? The answer is a resounding yes! He finished with 27 disposals and 18 contested possessions against the Cats in the AAMI Community Series – both career-highs. Injury once again impacted his year in 2021, averaging just 14 disposals and 63 points, never scoring more than 84 in any match.
Elijah Hollands $123,900 FWD/MID – Question mark
Hollands could manage only three games in the VFL last season as he returned from a serious injury. We haven’t seen him at AFL level this pre-season and at the time of writing, close to half of the competition had selected the youngster. He’s unlikely to debut in Round 1 against West Coast, but I’m confident he won’t be too far away.
Matt Rowell starred in Gold Coast’s two pre-season games. Picture: Matt Roberts/AFL Photos/via Getty Images
Jack Lukosius $438,400 DEF/MID – Cross
A role change all but rules out Lukosius as a fantasy asset in 2022. The injury to Ben King has seen Lukosius move back into the forward line, after playing as a wing/half-back last season. He was even taking kick-ins last year, but as a forward, unless he’s kicking plenty of goals, he’s unlikely to post the scores we’re after.
GWS GIANTS
Lachie Whitfield $502,600 DEF/MID – Tick
The most obvious question mark around Whitfield is his durability – playing all 22 home-and-away games just once in nine seasons – but when fit he’s an exceptional fantasy player. He’s underpriced to start with and has had a full pre-season under his belt, which is always a good sign. Whitfield reached 125 points six times in a career-best season in 2019.
Stephen Coniglio $261,300 FWD/MID – Tick
The noise coming out of the Giants is that Coniglio hasn’t missed a beat all summer, and his pre-season backs that up. He’s back playing as a centre bounce midfielder again and had 27 disposals, 10 contested possessions, five tackles and 112 points against the Magpies. At his best, he averaged 27 disposals, one goal and 101 points in 2019.
Stephen Coniglio is one of the biggest bargains in KFC SuperCoach this year. Picture: Phil Hillyard
Tim Taranto $529,700 MID/FWD – Question mark
On the surface, Taranto playing as a half-forward isn’t ideal, but he has shown that he can post decent scores in that role, scoring 131 as a forward against the Tigers in Round 22 last season, but that was on the back of a four-goal haul. Initially, it may be wise to avoid him until Toby Greene returns, which makes him an excellent trade-up target.
HAWTHORN
James Sicily $448,100 DEF – Tick
Sicily’s return is a major boost for the Hawks. His intercept play was missed last season, averaging the equal-most intercept possessions of any current player in the AFL alongside Jeremy McGovern from 2018-20. Sicily played on from both kick-ins against the Tigers in the AAMI Community Series and scored 87 points from 14 effective disposals.
Josh Ward $180,300 MID – Tick
No player in the competition won more contested possessions in the AAMI Community Series than Ward. A ball magnet as a junior, he also ranked fifth in the competition for disposals per minute after racking up 29 against the Tigers. Both Tom Mitchell and Jaeger O’Meara were both missing from the team, but that shouldn’t take any of the gloss off Ward’s game.
Josh Ward was in brilliant form in the AAMI Community Series. Picture: Quinn Rooney/Getty Images
Connor MacDonald $117,300 MID – Tick
MacDonald, a ball magnet midfielder as a junior, hasn’t put a foot wrong over summer and is in the mix for a Round 1 debut against North Melbourne. He didn’t attend any centre bounces in the AAMI Community Series, but had an impact nonetheless – finishing with 16 disposals, eight contested possessions and one goal. Even if he doesn’t play in the season opener, he’s a solid bench option.
MELBOURNE
Max Gawn $657,400 RUC – Tick
The emergence of Luke Jackson may put some doubts in the mind of SuperCoaches about Gawn’s prospects in 2022, but I’d be very surprised if he didn’t finish in the top-three scorers among the rucks. Since 2019, no player in the competition has scored 120-plus points more often than Gawn (35 in total). He had a blinder in the AAMI Community Series, grabbing six contested marks to go with 134 points.
Clayton Oliver $672,000 MID – Tick
Oliver is one of the most reliable scorers in the game. In 2021, he averaged a career-high 32 disposals, 17 contested possessions and 125 points across the premiership season. Yes, like any midfielder he is prone to being tagged, with his two lowest scores both coming against the Giants. Just pick him and throw away the key!
Max Gawn is in no hurry to hand over his KFC SuperCoach crown. Picture: Daniel Pockett/Getty Images
Christian Petracca $606,200 MID – Tick
If you’re looking for an alternative to Clayton Oliver and wanted to save a few dollars, then Petracca is an excellent option. As he demonstrated during the finals series, his explosiveness can be devastating – averaging 34 disposals, 17 contested possessions, two goals and 138 across his three finals.
NORTH MELBOURNE
Jason Horne-Francis $207,300 MID – Tick
Horne-Francis more than held his own at senior level in the SANFL last season, finishing with 24 disposals, three goals and 160 points in the grand final. In total, he had five tons to his name from 20 games. We have already seen glimpses of his talents in the pre-season, finishing with 16 disposals, 11 contested possessions, two goals and 87 points against the Swans.
Tarryn Thomas $459,300 MID/FWD – Tick
Thomas looms as a huge breakout candidate. He was one of just two players in the competition to average at least 22 disposals and more than one goal in the last six rounds of 2021 – averaging 109 points along the way. He didn’t reach any great heights against Sydney but did attend 13 centre bounces, ranked third at the club.
North Melbourne is set to unveil No1 draft pick Jason Horn-Francis in Round 1. Picture: Mark Stewart
Tristan Xerri $208,200 FWD – Tick
Has Xerri ousted Todd Goldstein for the No.1 ruck role at the Kangaroos? Only time will tell. Xerri attended 52 ruck contests to Goldstein’s 41 in the AAMI Community Series, but we need to be mindful that Callum Coleman-Jones didn’t play. Should Xerri play in the season--opener he could be a shrewd selection, especially as he’s likely to become a DPP at some stage.
PORT ADELAIDE
Zak Butters $443,600 FWD – Tick
Butters was on his way to a breakout season in 2021 after averaging 102 points in the opening month before injury hit. That makes him a prime candidate this year and he has starred on the track over the summer. He had 32 disposals, 13 contested possessions, two score assists, one goal and 114 points against the Crows. With more midfield time Butters is all but certain to gain DPP status, which adds even more to his appeal.
Sam Hayes $123,900 RUC – Tick
Hayes looks to be the standout rookie bench option in the ruck after the departure of Peter Ladhams. With Charlie Dixon looking less likely to play in the season opener after ankle surgery, Hayes is a strong chance to debut in Round 1. He scored 120-plus points in four games in the SANFL last season and had seven tons in total.
Zak Butters is set for a breakout season for Port Adelaide. Picture: Brenton Edwards
Josh Sinn $157,800 DEF/MID – Tick
The Power moved up in the draft to snap up Sinn. He has impressed everyone over the summer and a debut in Round 1 is a strong possibility, however it’s touch and go as he only played in the second half in the AAMI Community Series. After he came on he gained 240 metres, ranked third on the ground. Sinn is a handy bench option and it won’t be long before we see him in the AFL.
RICHMOND
Dustin Martin $503,500 MID/FWD – Tick
Historically, Martin starts every season strongly, averaging 110 points across the opening four rounds since 2017. But that figure drops to 88 points per game for the next four rounds. Does that make him a bad pick? Definitely not. He’s set to spend more time in the midfield in 2022, collecting 26 disposals (79 per cent disposal efficiency) against the Hawks in the AAMI Community Series.
Jayden Short $535,200 DEF – Tick
The retirement of Bachar Houli is likely to boost Short’s numbers. Short averaged 102 points without Houli from Rounds 1-3 last season and 106 points without him from Rounds 17-23. Short will also have a monopoly on the kick-ins, playing on from six of the nine he took in the AAMI Community Series.
Hugo Ralphsmith is pushing for a spot in Richmond’s best 22. Photo by Michael Klein
Dustin Martin has played as a pure midfielder in the pre-season. Picture: Michael Klein
Hugo Ralphsmith $206,700 FWD/MID – Tick
Ralphsmith’s direct play will be important for the Tigers especially after Bachar Houli’s retirement. A Fwd/Mid in SuperCoach, Ralphsmith is set for a role change this year and will play in defence. He already looks to be a valuable ball-carrier, having 470 metres gained in the AAMI Community Series – second-most at Richmond behind Jayden Short.
Max Gawn $657,400 RUC – Tick
The emergence of Luke Jackson may put some doubts in the mind of SuperCoaches about Gawn’s prospects in 2022, but I’d be very surprised if he didn’t finish in the top-three scorers among the rucks. Since 2019, no player in the competition has scored 120-plus points more often than Gawn (35 in total). He had a blinder in the AAMI Community Series, grabbing six contested marks to go with 134 points.
Clayton Oliver $672,000 MID – Tick
Oliver is one of the most reliable scorers in the game. In 2021, he averaged a career-high 32 disposals, 17 contested possessions and 125 points across the premiership season. Yes, like any midfielder he is prone to being tagged, with his two lowest scores both coming against the Giants. Just pick him and throw away the key!
Max Gawn is in no hurry to hand over his KFC SuperCoach crown. Picture: Daniel Pockett/Getty Images
Christian Petracca $606,200 MID – Tick
If you’re looking for an alternative to Clayton Oliver and wanted to save a few dollars, then Petracca is an excellent option. As he demonstrated during the finals series, his explosiveness can be devastating – averaging 34 disposals, 17 contested possessions, two goals and 138 across his three finals.
NORTH MELBOURNE
Jason Horne-Francis $207,300 MID – Tick
Horne-Francis more than held his own at senior level in the SANFL last season, finishing with 24 disposals, three goals and 160 points in the grand final. In total, he had five tons to his name from 20 games. We have already seen glimpses of his talents in the pre-season, finishing with 16 disposals, 11 contested possessions, two goals and 87 points against the Swans.
Tarryn Thomas $459,300 MID/FWD – Tick
Thomas looms as a huge breakout candidate. He was one of just two players in the competition to average at least 22 disposals and more than one goal in the last six rounds of 2021 – averaging 109 points along the way. He didn’t reach any great heights against Sydney but did attend 13 centre bounces, ranked third at the club.
North Melbourne is set to unveil No1 draft pick Jason Horn-Francis in Round 1. Picture: Mark Stewart
Tristan Xerri $208,200 FWD – Tick
Has Xerri ousted Todd Goldstein for the No.1 ruck role at the Kangaroos? Only time will tell. Xerri attended 52 ruck contests to Goldstein’s 41 in the AAMI Community Series, but we need to be mindful that Callum Coleman-Jones didn’t play. Should Xerri play in the season--opener he could be a shrewd selection, especially as he’s likely to become a DPP at some stage.
PORT ADELAIDE
Zak Butters $443,600 FWD – Tick
Butters was on his way to a breakout season in 2021 after averaging 102 points in the opening month before injury hit. That makes him a prime candidate this year and he has starred on the track over the summer. He had 32 disposals, 13 contested possessions, two score assists, one goal and 114 points against the Crows. With more midfield time Butters is all but certain to gain DPP status, which adds even more to his appeal.
Sam Hayes $123,900 RUC – Tick
Hayes looks to be the standout rookie bench option in the ruck after the departure of Peter Ladhams. With Charlie Dixon looking less likely to play in the season opener after ankle surgery, Hayes is a strong chance to debut in Round 1. He scored 120-plus points in four games in the SANFL last season and had seven tons in total.
Zak Butters is set for a breakout season for Port Adelaide. Picture: Brenton Edwards
Josh Sinn $157,800 DEF/MID – Tick
The Power moved up in the draft to snap up Sinn. He has impressed everyone over the summer and a debut in Round 1 is a strong possibility, however it’s touch and go as he only played in the second half in the AAMI Community Series. After he came on he gained 240 metres, ranked third on the ground. Sinn is a handy bench option and it won’t be long before we see him in the AFL.
RICHMOND
Dustin Martin $503,500 MID/FWD – Tick
Historically, Martin starts every season strongly, averaging 110 points across the opening four rounds since 2017. But that figure drops to 88 points per game for the next four rounds. Does that make him a bad pick? Definitely not. He’s set to spend more time in the midfield in 2022, collecting 26 disposals (79 per cent disposal efficiency) against the Hawks in the AAMI Community Series.
Jayden Short $535,200 DEF – Tick
The retirement of Bachar Houli is likely to boost Short’s numbers. Short averaged 102 points without Houli from Rounds 1-3 last season and 106 points without him from Rounds 17-23. Short will also have a monopoly on the kick-ins, playing on from six of the nine he took in the AAMI Community Series.
Hugo Ralphsmith is pushing for a spot in Richmond’s best 22. Photo by Michael Klein
Dustin Martin has played as a pure midfielder in the pre-season. Picture: Michael Klein
Hugo Ralphsmith $206,700 FWD/MID – Tick
Ralphsmith’s direct play will be important for the Tigers especially after Bachar Houli’s retirement. A Fwd/Mid in SuperCoach, Ralphsmith is set for a role change this year and will play in defence. He already looks to be a valuable ball-carrier, having 470 metres gained in the AAMI Community Series – second-most at Richmond behind Jayden Short.
ST KILDA
Jade Gresham $299,000 MID/FWD – Question mark
St Kilda missed Gresham’s speed and link-up play last season. Now back in the team, we’d need him to average north of 90 points as a mid-pricer to make him a worthwhile pick – something he hasn’t achieved in his career to date. Brett Ratten has also referred to him as an “impact player”, which is a worry. Gresham attended just five centre bounces in the AAMI Community Series.
Jack Steele $685,800 MID – Tick
Steele is worth every dollar. He has finished in the top-three ranked St Kilda players in 31 games across the last two seasons – ranked No.1 in the league. He was solid more than anything against the Bombers in the AAMI Community Series, collecting 89 points from just 20 disposals, but we shouldn’t be taking out proven premiums based on one pre-season game.
Jack Steele was one of the leading KFC SuperCoach scorers in 2021. Picture: Michael Klein
Rowan Marshall $536,800 RUC – Tick
With Paddy Ryder nowhere near ready to play, Marshall looks set to lead the ruck division in his absence. Marshall dominated with Ryder out of the side from Round 20 last season, averaging 19 disposals, one goal, nine hitouts-to-advantage and 118 points. He scored 100 points from 24 disposals against the Bombers in the AAMI Community Series.
SYDNEY
Isaac Heeney $454,500 FWD – Tick
Heeney has frustrated SuperCoaches in the past, but could he be revived in a new role in 2022? He has been earmarked to play in the midfield, but he spent most of his time forward against the Giants in the absence of Buddy Franklin, Peter Ladhams and Tom Papley. Heeney starred in attack with four goals, ranking equal-third in the league for points per 100 minutes.
Patrick McCartin $157,800 DEF/FWD – Tick
Rewind one month and not many SuperCoaches would have had McCartin in their sights. He’s now in the frame to make a return as a defender for Sydney after a terrific pre-season – having 14 disposals and an equal team-high seven intercept possessions against the Giants. If named, he’s a safe player to field in Round 1.
Isaac Heeney has been promised more midfield time. Picture: Mark Jesser/AFL Photos via Getty Images
Dylan Stephens $167,800 MID – Tick
Stephens was a bit part player last season, managing just 49.4 per cent game time. But he looks set to play a prominent role on the wing in 2022 and the Swans used his outside run to full effect against the Giants in the AAMI Community Series, finishing with 10 handball-receives and 18 uncontested possessions – ranked third at the club in both measures.
WEST COAST
Nic Naitanui $627,400 RUC – Question mark
Naitanui had a career-best season in 2021 and posted career-highs across the board. However, with a host of Eagles midfielders sidelined through injury his hitout-to-advantage numbers may take a hit. Against the Dockers, he had a hitout-to-advantage rate of just 18 per cent – the third-worst return of any ruckman in the league. At his price, it may be wise to back one of the big two instead.
Hugh Dixon $102,400 FWD/RUCK – Tick
With no Jack Darling and Oscar Allen injured, the Eagles have turned to ex-Docker Dixon in attack. At the basement low rookie price, he was targeted inside 50 a team-high six times in the AAMI Community Series, grabbing one contested mark to go with nine disposals. If you also own Jack Hayes, swapping the two between ruck and forward could be more than handy.
Greg Clark $117,300 MID – Cross
Clark still sits in 9 per cent of teams at the time of writing despite a long-term shoulder injury. He looms as a trade-down target at best mid-year and I’m sure we’ll flock to him at some stage. He posted excellent numbers in the WAFL last year and averaged 121 points, which included scoring 181 in the Grand Final.
WESTERN BULLDOGS
Adam Treloar $483,200 FWD/MID – Tick
Injury hit at the worst possible time for Treloar in 2021, averaging 97 points from Rounds 1-9 compared to just 76 points from Rounds 21-23. He racked up 123 and 122 points respectively in his last two finals to propel him into our thoughts ahead of 2022. Now a DPP, he scored 132 points in the AAMI Community Series from 29 disposals and two goals.
Adam Treloar has been flying over the pre-season. Picture: Michael Klein
Marcus Bontempelli $651,700 MID – Tick
Missing just three games through injury in the past six seasons, Bontempelli is as durable as they come. A midfield double-up with Jack Macrae looms as a real POD – with the duo ranking in the top-five in the competition for total points scored since 2019. Bontempelli has scored 120-plus points 28 times over this period – ranked fourth overall.
More CoverageFinal verdict: The 11 must-have players in KFC SuperCoachRookie Bible: Every SuperCoach cheapie you need to knowConsensus rankings: Best SuperCoach picks on every line
Josh Dunkley $558,200 MID/FWD – Tick
Injury once again derailed Dunkley’s season in 2021. He ranked third in the league for points scored in the opening six rounds with a whopping average of 128, but that figure dropped to 71 points per game from Round 18 upon his return. Dunkley attended a team-high 21 centre bounces in the AAMI Community Series – scoring 121 from 32 disposals.
Jade Gresham $299,000 MID/FWD – Question mark
St Kilda missed Gresham’s speed and link-up play last season. Now back in the team, we’d need him to average north of 90 points as a mid-pricer to make him a worthwhile pick – something he hasn’t achieved in his career to date. Brett Ratten has also referred to him as an “impact player”, which is a worry. Gresham attended just five centre bounces in the AAMI Community Series.
Jack Steele $685,800 MID – Tick
Steele is worth every dollar. He has finished in the top-three ranked St Kilda players in 31 games across the last two seasons – ranked No.1 in the league. He was solid more than anything against the Bombers in the AAMI Community Series, collecting 89 points from just 20 disposals, but we shouldn’t be taking out proven premiums based on one pre-season game.
Jack Steele was one of the leading KFC SuperCoach scorers in 2021. Picture: Michael Klein
Rowan Marshall $536,800 RUC – Tick
With Paddy Ryder nowhere near ready to play, Marshall looks set to lead the ruck division in his absence. Marshall dominated with Ryder out of the side from Round 20 last season, averaging 19 disposals, one goal, nine hitouts-to-advantage and 118 points. He scored 100 points from 24 disposals against the Bombers in the AAMI Community Series.
SYDNEY
Isaac Heeney $454,500 FWD – Tick
Heeney has frustrated SuperCoaches in the past, but could he be revived in a new role in 2022? He has been earmarked to play in the midfield, but he spent most of his time forward against the Giants in the absence of Buddy Franklin, Peter Ladhams and Tom Papley. Heeney starred in attack with four goals, ranking equal-third in the league for points per 100 minutes.
Patrick McCartin $157,800 DEF/FWD – Tick
Rewind one month and not many SuperCoaches would have had McCartin in their sights. He’s now in the frame to make a return as a defender for Sydney after a terrific pre-season – having 14 disposals and an equal team-high seven intercept possessions against the Giants. If named, he’s a safe player to field in Round 1.
Isaac Heeney has been promised more midfield time. Picture: Mark Jesser/AFL Photos via Getty Images
Dylan Stephens $167,800 MID – Tick
Stephens was a bit part player last season, managing just 49.4 per cent game time. But he looks set to play a prominent role on the wing in 2022 and the Swans used his outside run to full effect against the Giants in the AAMI Community Series, finishing with 10 handball-receives and 18 uncontested possessions – ranked third at the club in both measures.
WEST COAST
Nic Naitanui $627,400 RUC – Question mark
Naitanui had a career-best season in 2021 and posted career-highs across the board. However, with a host of Eagles midfielders sidelined through injury his hitout-to-advantage numbers may take a hit. Against the Dockers, he had a hitout-to-advantage rate of just 18 per cent – the third-worst return of any ruckman in the league. At his price, it may be wise to back one of the big two instead.
Hugh Dixon $102,400 FWD/RUCK – Tick
With no Jack Darling and Oscar Allen injured, the Eagles have turned to ex-Docker Dixon in attack. At the basement low rookie price, he was targeted inside 50 a team-high six times in the AAMI Community Series, grabbing one contested mark to go with nine disposals. If you also own Jack Hayes, swapping the two between ruck and forward could be more than handy.
Greg Clark $117,300 MID – Cross
Clark still sits in 9 per cent of teams at the time of writing despite a long-term shoulder injury. He looms as a trade-down target at best mid-year and I’m sure we’ll flock to him at some stage. He posted excellent numbers in the WAFL last year and averaged 121 points, which included scoring 181 in the Grand Final.
WESTERN BULLDOGS
Adam Treloar $483,200 FWD/MID – Tick
Injury hit at the worst possible time for Treloar in 2021, averaging 97 points from Rounds 1-9 compared to just 76 points from Rounds 21-23. He racked up 123 and 122 points respectively in his last two finals to propel him into our thoughts ahead of 2022. Now a DPP, he scored 132 points in the AAMI Community Series from 29 disposals and two goals.
Adam Treloar has been flying over the pre-season. Picture: Michael Klein
Marcus Bontempelli $651,700 MID – Tick
Missing just three games through injury in the past six seasons, Bontempelli is as durable as they come. A midfield double-up with Jack Macrae looms as a real POD – with the duo ranking in the top-five in the competition for total points scored since 2019. Bontempelli has scored 120-plus points 28 times over this period – ranked fourth overall.
More CoverageFinal verdict: The 11 must-have players in KFC SuperCoachRookie Bible: Every SuperCoach cheapie you need to knowConsensus rankings: Best SuperCoach picks on every line
Josh Dunkley $558,200 MID/FWD – Tick
Injury once again derailed Dunkley’s season in 2021. He ranked third in the league for points scored in the opening six rounds with a whopping average of 128, but that figure dropped to 71 points per game from Round 18 upon his return. Dunkley attended a team-high 21 centre bounces in the AAMI Community Series – scoring 121 from 32 disposals.
@Shannon can you post this with the proper format. Can't do off mobile.
AAMI Series - SuperCoach
PlayerClubPricePosPtsPts/100 minsTOG%Luke PedlarADE$123,900MID/FWD2512915%Reilly O'BrienADE$520,600RUC10810282%Rory LairdADE$632,600MID549444%Matt CrouchADE$482,000MID839071%Riley ThilthorpeADE$329,300FWD928782%Rory SloaneADE$528,000MID868776%Joshua RacheleADE$184,800MID/FWD858478%Brodie SmithADE$459,600DEF888283%Harry SchoenbergADE$390,200MID736785%Ned McHenryADE$292,900FWD696582%Mitchell HingeADE$180,900DEF646379%Lachlan ShollADE$361,700MID675790%Luke BrownADE$325,100DEF635786%Tom DoedeeADE$464,700DEF325644%Jake SoligoADE$117,300MID455366%Ben KeaysADE$560,400MID575088%Nick MurrayADE$312,400DEF574892%Andrew McPhersonADE$307,900DEF454675%Chayce JonesADE$273,300DEF504488%Ben DavisADE$204,500DEF/FWD254345%Darcy FogartyADE$288,800FWD484288%Jordon ButtsADE$309,800DEF433789%Sam BerryADE$250,400FWD142740%Elliott HimmelbergADE$251,100FWD172455%Lachlan GollantADE$123,900FWD242478%Keidean ColemanBRL$263,200DEF/FWD4011030%Callum Ah CheeBRL$273,800DEF5610842%Daniel RichBRL$582,700DEF8110662%Jarryd LyonsBRL$640,100MID9510375%Lachie NealeBRL$543,200MID1069988%Hugh McCluggageBRL$544,100MID919281%Charlie CameronBRL$375,800FWD959086%Jarrod BerryBRL$268,500MID808082%Brandon StarcevichBRL$325,400DEF817984%Zac BaileyBRL$459,900FWD/MID767880%Daniel McStayBRL$412,200FWD777583%Marcus AdamsBRL$417,300DEF9174100%Nakia CockatooBRL$265,600FWD697377%Harris AndrewsBRL$517,900DEF7763100%Mitch RobinsonBRL$400,900MID576275%Noah AnswerthBRL$246,800DEF536269%Darcy FortBRL$307,900RUC636185%Joe DaniherBRL$430,500FWD676090%Oscar McInerneyBRL$509,600RUC585782%Deven RobertsonBRL$343,300MID345154%Jack PayneBRL$338,700DEF125019%Tom FullartonBRL$262,400FWD454680%Lincoln McCarthyBRL$421,800FWD424184%Harry SharpBRL$193,200MID143830%James MaddenBRL$310,300DEF182364%Matthew KennedyCAR$440,900MID14214078%Patrick CrippsCAR$454,800MID14913883%Mitch McGovernCAR$256,000FWD10012362%Adam CerraCAR$490,200MID12311979%Zac FisherCAR$353,300FWD12010786%George HewettCAR$399,000DEF/MID10710479%Nic NewmanCAR$477,100DEF114
AAMI Series - SuperCoach
PlayerClubPricePosPtsPts/100 minsTOG%Luke PedlarADE$123,900MID/FWD2512915%Reilly O'BrienADE$520,600RUC10810282%Rory LairdADE$632,600MID549444%Matt CrouchADE$482,000MID839071%Riley ThilthorpeADE$329,300FWD928782%Rory SloaneADE$528,000MID868776%Joshua RacheleADE$184,800MID/FWD858478%Brodie SmithADE$459,600DEF888283%Harry SchoenbergADE$390,200MID736785%Ned McHenryADE$292,900FWD696582%Mitchell HingeADE$180,900DEF646379%Lachlan ShollADE$361,700MID675790%Luke BrownADE$325,100DEF635786%Tom DoedeeADE$464,700DEF325644%Jake SoligoADE$117,300MID455366%Ben KeaysADE$560,400MID575088%Nick MurrayADE$312,400DEF574892%Andrew McPhersonADE$307,900DEF454675%Chayce JonesADE$273,300DEF504488%Ben DavisADE$204,500DEF/FWD254345%Darcy FogartyADE$288,800FWD484288%Jordon ButtsADE$309,800DEF433789%Sam BerryADE$250,400FWD142740%Elliott HimmelbergADE$251,100FWD172455%Lachlan GollantADE$123,900FWD242478%Keidean ColemanBRL$263,200DEF/FWD4011030%Callum Ah CheeBRL$273,800DEF5610842%Daniel RichBRL$582,700DEF8110662%Jarryd LyonsBRL$640,100MID9510375%Lachie NealeBRL$543,200MID1069988%Hugh McCluggageBRL$544,100MID919281%Charlie CameronBRL$375,800FWD959086%Jarrod BerryBRL$268,500MID808082%Brandon StarcevichBRL$325,400DEF817984%Zac BaileyBRL$459,900FWD/MID767880%Daniel McStayBRL$412,200FWD777583%Marcus AdamsBRL$417,300DEF9174100%Nakia CockatooBRL$265,600FWD697377%Harris AndrewsBRL$517,900DEF7763100%Mitch RobinsonBRL$400,900MID576275%Noah AnswerthBRL$246,800DEF536269%Darcy FortBRL$307,900RUC636185%Joe DaniherBRL$430,500FWD676090%Oscar McInerneyBRL$509,600RUC585782%Deven RobertsonBRL$343,300MID345154%Jack PayneBRL$338,700DEF125019%Tom FullartonBRL$262,400FWD454680%Lincoln McCarthyBRL$421,800FWD424184%Harry SharpBRL$193,200MID143830%James MaddenBRL$310,300DEF182364%Matthew KennedyCAR$440,900MID14214078%Patrick CrippsCAR$454,800MID14913883%Mitch McGovernCAR$256,000FWD10012362%Adam CerraCAR$490,200MID12311979%Zac FisherCAR$353,300FWD12010786%George HewettCAR$399,000DEF/MID10710479%Nic NewmanCAR$477,100DEF114
This guy who finshed top 150 has some interesting selections including Hewitt.
View: https://youtu.be/x0psooCtvTU
KFC SuperCoach 2022: The Phantom’s final team revealed
The KFC SuperCoach season is almost here and The Phantom has settled on his starting team – and there are two big points-of-difference. See the side here.
Sometimes boring in KFC SuperCoach isn’t a bad thing.
The popular players are popular for a reason. We don’t spend all summer narrowing the shortlist for nothing.
So if you sprinkle in some of your own flavour, in the form a few unique picks across every line, don’t stress if you’re team looks a little similar to others.
That’s what I’ve done – Darcy Parish and Sean Darcy are both in 12 per cent of teams or less - and I think I’m settled for the moment.
Well maybe not on the bench, that might need some work as the teams start to drop. Crow Mitch Hinge ($180k) could become Paddy McCartin ($157k) for extra cash or even Matt Rowell ($342k) to Jarrod Berry ($268k) if I really get stuck.
But I’m happy with the on-field 22 – for now.
DEFENCE
Jack Crisp (Coll) $571,000, Mid
Lachie Whitfield (GWS) $502,600, Mid
James Sicily (Haw) $448,100
George Hewett (Carl) $399,000, Mid
Mitch Hinge (Adel) $180,900
Sam De Koning (Geel) $123,900, Fwd
BENCH: Jordan Boyd (Car), $123,900, Mitch Cox (Bris) $102,400, Mid
With Jordan Dawson’s interrupted pre-season, Giant Lachie Whitfield is the biggest change in defence. If you haven’t just come to pot me two days out from the season-opener, you will know I’ve been big on Dawson for a while, but I’ve come to the realisation that Whitfield is almost too cheap to pass up and the Crow recruit’s calf niggle created an opening. His ceiling is as high as any KFC SuperCoach defender, and we’ve got the extra trades if he finds another way to get injured. Crisp averaged 110 points from Round 8 onwards in a big finish to last year, as he floated through the Collingwood midfield, and he hasn’t missed a game in his seven seasons at the Magpies. Lock. I still like Jordan Ridley, with the inclusion of Jake Kelly at the Bombers, but you can save $140k and go George Hewett, who is a chance to push three figures in Carlton’s midfield. Ideally, I have Mitch Hinge and Swan McCartin ($157k) on field, but I just can’t afford – yet. Jordan Boyd is touch-and-go for Round 1, while D8 could be my non-playing loophole.
MIDFIELD
Jack Macrae (WB) $699,900
Jack Steele (StK) $685,800
Darcy Parish (Ess) $621,300
Lachie Neale (Bris) $543,200
Matt Rowell (GC) $342,900
Jason Horne-Francis (NM) $207,300
Nick Daicos (Coll) $193,800
Dylan Stephens (Syd) $167,800
BENCH: Connor MacDonald (WC) $117,300, Brady Hough (WC) $117,300, Jake Soligo (Adel) $117,300,
The midfield looks pretty similar to my pre-AAMI Series team, with Matt Rowell the only big inclusion, replacing breakout candidate Caleb Serong at M5. As much as I like Serong as a player, you’re picking him as keeper at that price. At $342k, Rowell’s potential cash generation is likely to justify his starting selection alone. But, after back-to-back KFC SuperCoach tons in the pre-season, I’m tipping he might be more than just a stepping stone. He’s pushed Jarrod Berry out, though, which I don’t love, given the value in the injury-plagued Lion. But I want to go with the four big guns, including Parish. Given he was only a bit-part player through the middle in the opening month last year and still averaged 114, along with his enormous ceiling, I think the star Bomber, who is in eight per cent of teams, can be a 120-point man very soon. I’m currently willing to overlook the tag and returning teammates concerns because he might just be, simply, too good for any of it to matter. On the bench, I like Connor MacDonald and Brady Hough at $117k, with Eagles coach Adam Simpson confirming they will have more than one debutant in Round 1, but Jake Soligo might not stay. Dylan Stephens and Hawk Josh Ward ($180k) switching at M8/M9 is another thing I really like, but just can’t afford it for the moment, either
RUCK
Sean Darcy (Fre) $642,600
Brodie Grundy (Coll) $627,100
BENCH: Hugh Dixon (WC) $102,400 Fwd
Sadly, after the suspension, the Braydon Preuss R2 dream is over. But with Flynn still in the picture, maybe it was always going to be a nightmare, anyway. So back to my original combination it is. I’m tipping Brodie Grundy to return to his best and, if last year’s scoring and the 95, on the back of two kicks in the AAMI Series, is anything to go by, Sean Darcy could be about to take over. Yes, he finds away to cop a knock, but I’m happy taking the risk.
FORWARD
Josh Dunkley (WB) $558,200, Mid
Adam Treloar (WB) $483,200, Mid
Zak Butters (Port) $443,600
Stephen Coniglio (GWS) $261,300, Mid
Will Brodie (GC) $224,300
Josh Rachele (Adel) $184,800, Mid
BENCH: Nick Martin (Ess) $102,400, Jack Hayes (StK) $102,400, Ruck
I said all along if Justin Longmuir picks Will Brodie, I will pick him, too. And, after two impressive pre-season matches, the signs are good. He comes in at the expense of Lion Cam Rayner. The only other change is Jordan De Goey out and Adam Treloar in. After two pre-season KFC SuperCoach tons, and two in the finals last year, the Bulldogs gun is close to the only other forward option you can be sure about hitting a three-figure average, behind Josh Dunkley, Mitch Duncan and Zak Butters. He might not get back to his 110-point days but he doesn’t need to in this year’s KFC SuperCoach forward pool. Josh Rachele should be on your field and we’re all praying Nick Martin and Jack Hayes get named.
Counting Sicily, I’m starting with 12 premiums, plus Rowell, Coniglio and Hewett, who all also have premium scoring potential.
Let’s, you know what, go.
The KFC SuperCoach season is almost here and The Phantom has settled on his starting team – and there are two big points-of-difference. See the side here.
Sometimes boring in KFC SuperCoach isn’t a bad thing.
The popular players are popular for a reason. We don’t spend all summer narrowing the shortlist for nothing.
So if you sprinkle in some of your own flavour, in the form a few unique picks across every line, don’t stress if you’re team looks a little similar to others.
That’s what I’ve done – Darcy Parish and Sean Darcy are both in 12 per cent of teams or less - and I think I’m settled for the moment.
Well maybe not on the bench, that might need some work as the teams start to drop. Crow Mitch Hinge ($180k) could become Paddy McCartin ($157k) for extra cash or even Matt Rowell ($342k) to Jarrod Berry ($268k) if I really get stuck.
But I’m happy with the on-field 22 – for now.
DEFENCE
Jack Crisp (Coll) $571,000, Mid
Lachie Whitfield (GWS) $502,600, Mid
James Sicily (Haw) $448,100
George Hewett (Carl) $399,000, Mid
Mitch Hinge (Adel) $180,900
Sam De Koning (Geel) $123,900, Fwd
BENCH: Jordan Boyd (Car), $123,900, Mitch Cox (Bris) $102,400, Mid
With Jordan Dawson’s interrupted pre-season, Giant Lachie Whitfield is the biggest change in defence. If you haven’t just come to pot me two days out from the season-opener, you will know I’ve been big on Dawson for a while, but I’ve come to the realisation that Whitfield is almost too cheap to pass up and the Crow recruit’s calf niggle created an opening. His ceiling is as high as any KFC SuperCoach defender, and we’ve got the extra trades if he finds another way to get injured. Crisp averaged 110 points from Round 8 onwards in a big finish to last year, as he floated through the Collingwood midfield, and he hasn’t missed a game in his seven seasons at the Magpies. Lock. I still like Jordan Ridley, with the inclusion of Jake Kelly at the Bombers, but you can save $140k and go George Hewett, who is a chance to push three figures in Carlton’s midfield. Ideally, I have Mitch Hinge and Swan McCartin ($157k) on field, but I just can’t afford – yet. Jordan Boyd is touch-and-go for Round 1, while D8 could be my non-playing loophole.
MIDFIELD
Jack Macrae (WB) $699,900
Jack Steele (StK) $685,800
Darcy Parish (Ess) $621,300
Lachie Neale (Bris) $543,200
Matt Rowell (GC) $342,900
Jason Horne-Francis (NM) $207,300
Nick Daicos (Coll) $193,800
Dylan Stephens (Syd) $167,800
BENCH: Connor MacDonald (WC) $117,300, Brady Hough (WC) $117,300, Jake Soligo (Adel) $117,300,
The midfield looks pretty similar to my pre-AAMI Series team, with Matt Rowell the only big inclusion, replacing breakout candidate Caleb Serong at M5. As much as I like Serong as a player, you’re picking him as keeper at that price. At $342k, Rowell’s potential cash generation is likely to justify his starting selection alone. But, after back-to-back KFC SuperCoach tons in the pre-season, I’m tipping he might be more than just a stepping stone. He’s pushed Jarrod Berry out, though, which I don’t love, given the value in the injury-plagued Lion. But I want to go with the four big guns, including Parish. Given he was only a bit-part player through the middle in the opening month last year and still averaged 114, along with his enormous ceiling, I think the star Bomber, who is in eight per cent of teams, can be a 120-point man very soon. I’m currently willing to overlook the tag and returning teammates concerns because he might just be, simply, too good for any of it to matter. On the bench, I like Connor MacDonald and Brady Hough at $117k, with Eagles coach Adam Simpson confirming they will have more than one debutant in Round 1, but Jake Soligo might not stay. Dylan Stephens and Hawk Josh Ward ($180k) switching at M8/M9 is another thing I really like, but just can’t afford it for the moment, either
RUCK
Sean Darcy (Fre) $642,600
Brodie Grundy (Coll) $627,100
BENCH: Hugh Dixon (WC) $102,400 Fwd
Sadly, after the suspension, the Braydon Preuss R2 dream is over. But with Flynn still in the picture, maybe it was always going to be a nightmare, anyway. So back to my original combination it is. I’m tipping Brodie Grundy to return to his best and, if last year’s scoring and the 95, on the back of two kicks in the AAMI Series, is anything to go by, Sean Darcy could be about to take over. Yes, he finds away to cop a knock, but I’m happy taking the risk.
FORWARD
Josh Dunkley (WB) $558,200, Mid
Adam Treloar (WB) $483,200, Mid
Zak Butters (Port) $443,600
Stephen Coniglio (GWS) $261,300, Mid
Will Brodie (GC) $224,300
Josh Rachele (Adel) $184,800, Mid
BENCH: Nick Martin (Ess) $102,400, Jack Hayes (StK) $102,400, Ruck
I said all along if Justin Longmuir picks Will Brodie, I will pick him, too. And, after two impressive pre-season matches, the signs are good. He comes in at the expense of Lion Cam Rayner. The only other change is Jordan De Goey out and Adam Treloar in. After two pre-season KFC SuperCoach tons, and two in the finals last year, the Bulldogs gun is close to the only other forward option you can be sure about hitting a three-figure average, behind Josh Dunkley, Mitch Duncan and Zak Butters. He might not get back to his 110-point days but he doesn’t need to in this year’s KFC SuperCoach forward pool. Josh Rachele should be on your field and we’re all praying Nick Martin and Jack Hayes get named.
Counting Sicily, I’m starting with 12 premiums, plus Rowell, Coniglio and Hewett, who all also have premium scoring potential.
Let’s, you know what, go.
I've noticed this with a lot of "expert" teams, that they are going light on the bench. Their on field teams do look better as a result, but I can see them finding upgrades that bit harder if things go wrong, as they'll be using a lot of sideways trades / trading players earlier than planned due to lack of bench cover. Maybe it's the way to go?
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KFC SuperCoach AFL 2022 Rookie Bible: The cheapies you must consider
The teams have dropped and some popular rookies have been left out. Find out which KFC SuperCoach cash cows you need to pick.
Dan Batten and The Phantom
51 min read
March 17, 2022 - 6:57PM
News Corp Australia Sports Newsroom
It’s down to this.
KFC SuperCoach teams are almost locked in as Round 1 gets underway, with one major exception – rookies.
Crucial to every SuperCoach side, which cheapies we select will determine our 2022 fortunes and potentially allow some late moves with more expensive players.
Only a tiny number of rookies are locked out after the grand final rematch, so who should you be picking in your team?
Dan Batten and The Phantom have been tracking the top juniors and mature-age recruits for months. Here is their verdict on the Round 1 locks, probables and possibles, and their predicted scoring averages for 2022.
CONFIRMED ROUND 1 LOCKS
DEFENCE
Paddy McCartin
2021 SC Ave: 70 (VFL) 2022 PS score: 74
Predicted average: 60-65 Job security: High
The former No.1 pick has entered the KFC SuperCoach frame as he looks to re-ignite his stalled career at the Swans. McCartin, who was signed as a rookie during the supplemental selection period, has been clunking intercept marks in his new role down back, where he shone at VFL level last year. Taking out an injury-affected score of eight, the 25-year-old averaged 85.5 points across four matches – with a lengthy suspension in between – for Sydney’s reserves. He has valuable DEF/FWD eligibility and provides some value at his price tag, but he does carry an injury risk with his concussion history. McCartin posted 74 points from 14 disposals in the Community Series, taking seven marks and growing in confidence in his intercept role.
DB: BUY. Never thought I’d say this, but I am picking Paddy McCartin in SuperCoach. His intercept marking role down back is promising, and he is one of only a few defensive rookies available.
TP: BUY. Concussion history is a concern but he impressed in the new role and his job security seems secure, putting him near the front of the defensive rookie queue. In my team, on field.
Mitchell Hinge (Adel) $180,900 DEF
2021 SC ave (AFL) 31 2022 PS score: 79, 64 (71.5)
Predicted average: 60-65 Job security: High
Hinge has played just two proper matches in the last two seasons – a score of 31 from 44 per cent game time in 2021 and a ton with Brisbane in 2020 – with a spate of shoulder dislocations cruelling his first year at the Crows. However, the 23-year-old runner has been playing on a wing for the stronger Crows side during the pre-season and appears in line for a Round 1 berth. Underlined his SuperCoach credentials with 79 points against Brisbane in the Crows’ first pre-season clash, and another 64 in the Community Series before going off with injury.
DB: BUY. Has emerged as one of the leading options in defence despite his price tag – his injury concern is his only query. But the Crows have confirmed he will play.
TP: BUY. Set to resume training this week and is a Round 1 lock for the Crows if he’s right to go - and the signs are good. On-field option.
Josh Gibcus (Rich) $171,300
2021 SC Ave: 83 (NAB League) 2022 PS score: 65
Predicted average: 50-55 Job security: High
Gibcus is the intercept king of last year’s draft, leading the NAB League in intercept marks (3.2 per game) and intercept possessions (7.9). The retirement of David Astbury opens the door for a key defender, and has done everything right this pre-season. He appears set to debut in Round 1 regardless of whether co-captain Dylan Grimes recovers from a finger injury.
DB: BUY. He may be a touch expensive for a first-year key defender, but Gibcus’s job security appears strong, and his Community Series effort was a sign his scoring could be solid. A good back-up option if Hinge isn’t named.
TP: BUY. The price is a little off-putting for a first-year key defender but we aren’t blessed with options in defence. I’d pick McCartin ahead of him, though.
Sam De Koning (Geel) $123,900, DEF/FWD
2021 SC ave: 27 (AFL), 65 (VFL)
Predicted average: 45-55 Job security: Medium
A versatile 202cm tall, De Koning has settled in defence this pre-season as he vies for a spot in the Geelong side. The former first-round draftee has added considerable size to his frame and may be the beneficiary of Lachie Henderson’s retirement. De Koning started for the Cats in defence in their six-period practice match, in a sign he could force his way in early. De Koning was one of the surprise packets of the Community Series, all but locking in a Round 1 spot with 19 disposals, five marks and 92 points in defence.
DB: BUY... Looks to be our saviour in defence, and is a confirmed starter in for his second AFL game.
TP: BUY.Might not get 19 disposals every week but looks comfortable in Geelong’s back-six and his height and athleticism means he can impact contests regularly. Finally – touch wood – a bench lock in defence.
MIDFIELD
Jason Horne-Francis (NM) $207,300 MID
2021 SC Ave: 88 (SANFL) 2022 PS score: 83, 87 (85)
Predicted average: 80-85 Job security: Very high
24 disposals. 18 contested possessions. 11 clearances. 160 SuperCoach points. And 3.2. In a SANFL preliminary final – at 18! The highlights of this dominant display should ease any concerns for those who aren’t keen on starting a high-priced rookie. The No.1 draft pick should be locked and loaded for Round 1 after 29 games against grown men over the past two seasons. However, David Noble wasn’t making any promises, saying he will have to prove himself over the pre-season. Sure enough, JHF went and blitzed an intra-club and scored 83 points in the Roos’ practice-match drubbing to show just how insulting this was. Displayed his high-impact scoring with 87 points from just 16 disposals at 43 per cent efficiency against the Swans, booting 2.2 and winning 11 contested possessions.
DB: MUST-HAVE. Noble’s pre-practice match comments are looking sillier by the day. It’s hard to see a world where he isn’t playing every game this year. You have just got to pick him.
TP: MUST-HAVE.Will spend plenty of time forward, but as he proved again in the AAMI Series, IT DOESN’T MATTER. Lock. Next.
Nick Daicos (Coll) $193,800 MID
2021 SC Ave: 159 (NAB League) 2022 PS score: 100
Predicted average: 80-85 Job security: Very high
In his five NAB League games last year, Daicos posted KFC SuperCoach scores of 177, 166, 145, 169 and 138. He was ready for AFL footy last season – even the Magpies said he probably would’ve got a game. Daicos, who averaged 36 disposals and two goals, has the versatility and skill set to be used on each line, but new coach Craig McRae told News Corp recently the Magpies will “try to play him across halfback and through the midfield” early in his career. Playing in that precise role in Collingwood’s intra-club, Daicos tallied a game-high 24 disposals and even took some kick-ins. To top it off, he was the leading disposal winner for the Pies against the Giants in the Community Series, finishing with a KFC SuperCoach ton. .
DB: MUST-HAVE.Daicos is a cut above the rest from last year’s draft crop, along with Horne-Francis. Should get plenty of the Sherrin in that Pies backline — lock it up.
TP: MUST-HAVE. Worth the top-end rookie price tag, even alongside Horne-Francis. They both could get DPP at some stage, too.
Josh Ward (Haw) $180,300 MID
2021 SC Ave: 133 (NAB League) 2022 PS score: 124
Predicted average: 75-80 Job security: High
An ultra-consistent midfielder in the mould of his coach, Ward posted 124 points or above in four of his five NAB League games. And that’s the score he posted in an immense Community Series display, tallying 29 disposals, 19 contested possessions and six clearances. Ward can be used on the inside and outside and his immense work-ethic means it’ll be a matter of when, rather than if, he debuts in 2022. Sam Mitchell will look to blood more kids in the Hawks’ regenerating phase and Ward looks set to be first cab off the rank. There was also plenty of buzz around him after their pre-season intra-club match, where he started in the centre-bounce and was one of the standouts.
DB: BUY. JHF, Daicos and Ward - three high-priced midfield rookies you need to have. His monster showing was without Tom Mitchell and Jaeger O’Meara, but he is only just getting started.
TP: BUY. Big junior numbers, elite work rate and a team in need of a new look in the midfield. It might be the year to go expensive on the bench.
The teams have dropped and some popular rookies have been left out. Find out which KFC SuperCoach cash cows you need to pick.
Dan Batten and The Phantom
51 min read
March 17, 2022 - 6:57PM
News Corp Australia Sports Newsroom
It’s down to this.
KFC SuperCoach teams are almost locked in as Round 1 gets underway, with one major exception – rookies.
Crucial to every SuperCoach side, which cheapies we select will determine our 2022 fortunes and potentially allow some late moves with more expensive players.
Only a tiny number of rookies are locked out after the grand final rematch, so who should you be picking in your team?
Dan Batten and The Phantom have been tracking the top juniors and mature-age recruits for months. Here is their verdict on the Round 1 locks, probables and possibles, and their predicted scoring averages for 2022.
CONFIRMED ROUND 1 LOCKS
DEFENCE
Paddy McCartin
2021 SC Ave: 70 (VFL) 2022 PS score: 74
Predicted average: 60-65 Job security: High
The former No.1 pick has entered the KFC SuperCoach frame as he looks to re-ignite his stalled career at the Swans. McCartin, who was signed as a rookie during the supplemental selection period, has been clunking intercept marks in his new role down back, where he shone at VFL level last year. Taking out an injury-affected score of eight, the 25-year-old averaged 85.5 points across four matches – with a lengthy suspension in between – for Sydney’s reserves. He has valuable DEF/FWD eligibility and provides some value at his price tag, but he does carry an injury risk with his concussion history. McCartin posted 74 points from 14 disposals in the Community Series, taking seven marks and growing in confidence in his intercept role.
DB: BUY. Never thought I’d say this, but I am picking Paddy McCartin in SuperCoach. His intercept marking role down back is promising, and he is one of only a few defensive rookies available.
TP: BUY. Concussion history is a concern but he impressed in the new role and his job security seems secure, putting him near the front of the defensive rookie queue. In my team, on field.
Mitchell Hinge (Adel) $180,900 DEF
2021 SC ave (AFL) 31 2022 PS score: 79, 64 (71.5)
Predicted average: 60-65 Job security: High
Hinge has played just two proper matches in the last two seasons – a score of 31 from 44 per cent game time in 2021 and a ton with Brisbane in 2020 – with a spate of shoulder dislocations cruelling his first year at the Crows. However, the 23-year-old runner has been playing on a wing for the stronger Crows side during the pre-season and appears in line for a Round 1 berth. Underlined his SuperCoach credentials with 79 points against Brisbane in the Crows’ first pre-season clash, and another 64 in the Community Series before going off with injury.
DB: BUY. Has emerged as one of the leading options in defence despite his price tag – his injury concern is his only query. But the Crows have confirmed he will play.
TP: BUY. Set to resume training this week and is a Round 1 lock for the Crows if he’s right to go - and the signs are good. On-field option.
Josh Gibcus (Rich) $171,300
2021 SC Ave: 83 (NAB League) 2022 PS score: 65
Predicted average: 50-55 Job security: High
Gibcus is the intercept king of last year’s draft, leading the NAB League in intercept marks (3.2 per game) and intercept possessions (7.9). The retirement of David Astbury opens the door for a key defender, and has done everything right this pre-season. He appears set to debut in Round 1 regardless of whether co-captain Dylan Grimes recovers from a finger injury.
DB: BUY. He may be a touch expensive for a first-year key defender, but Gibcus’s job security appears strong, and his Community Series effort was a sign his scoring could be solid. A good back-up option if Hinge isn’t named.
TP: BUY. The price is a little off-putting for a first-year key defender but we aren’t blessed with options in defence. I’d pick McCartin ahead of him, though.
Sam De Koning (Geel) $123,900, DEF/FWD
2021 SC ave: 27 (AFL), 65 (VFL)
Predicted average: 45-55 Job security: Medium
A versatile 202cm tall, De Koning has settled in defence this pre-season as he vies for a spot in the Geelong side. The former first-round draftee has added considerable size to his frame and may be the beneficiary of Lachie Henderson’s retirement. De Koning started for the Cats in defence in their six-period practice match, in a sign he could force his way in early. De Koning was one of the surprise packets of the Community Series, all but locking in a Round 1 spot with 19 disposals, five marks and 92 points in defence.
DB: BUY... Looks to be our saviour in defence, and is a confirmed starter in for his second AFL game.
TP: BUY.Might not get 19 disposals every week but looks comfortable in Geelong’s back-six and his height and athleticism means he can impact contests regularly. Finally – touch wood – a bench lock in defence.
MIDFIELD
Jason Horne-Francis (NM) $207,300 MID
2021 SC Ave: 88 (SANFL) 2022 PS score: 83, 87 (85)
Predicted average: 80-85 Job security: Very high
24 disposals. 18 contested possessions. 11 clearances. 160 SuperCoach points. And 3.2. In a SANFL preliminary final – at 18! The highlights of this dominant display should ease any concerns for those who aren’t keen on starting a high-priced rookie. The No.1 draft pick should be locked and loaded for Round 1 after 29 games against grown men over the past two seasons. However, David Noble wasn’t making any promises, saying he will have to prove himself over the pre-season. Sure enough, JHF went and blitzed an intra-club and scored 83 points in the Roos’ practice-match drubbing to show just how insulting this was. Displayed his high-impact scoring with 87 points from just 16 disposals at 43 per cent efficiency against the Swans, booting 2.2 and winning 11 contested possessions.
DB: MUST-HAVE. Noble’s pre-practice match comments are looking sillier by the day. It’s hard to see a world where he isn’t playing every game this year. You have just got to pick him.
TP: MUST-HAVE.Will spend plenty of time forward, but as he proved again in the AAMI Series, IT DOESN’T MATTER. Lock. Next.
Nick Daicos (Coll) $193,800 MID
2021 SC Ave: 159 (NAB League) 2022 PS score: 100
Predicted average: 80-85 Job security: Very high
In his five NAB League games last year, Daicos posted KFC SuperCoach scores of 177, 166, 145, 169 and 138. He was ready for AFL footy last season – even the Magpies said he probably would’ve got a game. Daicos, who averaged 36 disposals and two goals, has the versatility and skill set to be used on each line, but new coach Craig McRae told News Corp recently the Magpies will “try to play him across halfback and through the midfield” early in his career. Playing in that precise role in Collingwood’s intra-club, Daicos tallied a game-high 24 disposals and even took some kick-ins. To top it off, he was the leading disposal winner for the Pies against the Giants in the Community Series, finishing with a KFC SuperCoach ton. .
DB: MUST-HAVE.Daicos is a cut above the rest from last year’s draft crop, along with Horne-Francis. Should get plenty of the Sherrin in that Pies backline — lock it up.
TP: MUST-HAVE. Worth the top-end rookie price tag, even alongside Horne-Francis. They both could get DPP at some stage, too.
Josh Ward (Haw) $180,300 MID
2021 SC Ave: 133 (NAB League) 2022 PS score: 124
Predicted average: 75-80 Job security: High
An ultra-consistent midfielder in the mould of his coach, Ward posted 124 points or above in four of his five NAB League games. And that’s the score he posted in an immense Community Series display, tallying 29 disposals, 19 contested possessions and six clearances. Ward can be used on the inside and outside and his immense work-ethic means it’ll be a matter of when, rather than if, he debuts in 2022. Sam Mitchell will look to blood more kids in the Hawks’ regenerating phase and Ward looks set to be first cab off the rank. There was also plenty of buzz around him after their pre-season intra-club match, where he started in the centre-bounce and was one of the standouts.
DB: BUY. JHF, Daicos and Ward - three high-priced midfield rookies you need to have. His monster showing was without Tom Mitchell and Jaeger O’Meara, but he is only just getting started.
TP: BUY. Big junior numbers, elite work rate and a team in need of a new look in the midfield. It might be the year to go expensive on the bench.
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Dylan Stephens (Syd) $167,800 MID
2021 SC Ave: 30.8 (AFL), 101 (VFL) 2022 PS score: 63
Predicted average: 65-70 Job security: High
On the surface, Stephen’s average of 30.8 from six matches in his second season sets off alarm bells. But Stephens was hardly given a chance by John Longmire, spending just 49.4 per cent of his time on the park. It looks it it’ll be a different story in 2022, and that’s straight from the Horse’s mouth: “Dylan Stephens is one that really stands out. He has been training at a really high intensity and he’s put on some size, which we wanted him to do.” The top-five draft pick, who averaged 101 points and 28 disposals in the reserves last year, looms as a possible on-field cheapie option. Gathered 20 possessions and scored 83 points against North Melbourne, franking a strong pre-season.
DB: BUY. With the shortage of cheaper midfield rookies, Stephens is a possible bench or on-field option.
TP: BUY. Ticks more boxes than some draftees and provides plenty of value at that price in his third season. M8 for me.
Brady Hough (WCE) $117,300 MID
2021 SC Ave: 114 (WAFL), 117 (WAFLC) 2022 PS scores: 11, 47 (29)
Predicted average: 50-55 Job security: High
An athletic utility with good skills, Hough turned heads in his sole WAFL senior appearance for Peel Thunder last year, tallying 22 disposals, nine marks, a goal and 114 points. The 190cm product played a variety of different roles at WAFL Colts and state level, and was another young Eagle to show promise in their intra-club game off half-back. Hough showed promise out of defence in the Community Series, tallying 14 disposals, eight marks and 47 points, with teammate Jack Redden declaring post-match that Hough is ready to go.
DB: BUY. West Coast’s injury crisis has worked in his favour, and he should have a nice role across halfback.
TP: BUY. The space at Optus Stadium will suit the composed draftee and he’s another to consider for the bench, depending on which other rookies are named.
Connor MacDonald (Haw) $117,300 MID
2021 SC Ave: 148 (NAB League) 2022 PS score: 52
Predicted average: 55-60 Job security: Medium
MacDonald was a ball-winning machine for the Dandenong Stingrays, averaging 30 disposals, 14 contested possessions, seven inside 50s, five clearances and 148 KFC SuperCoach points per game in the NAB League last season. The midfielder’s professionalism should hold him in good stead as he vies for a debut, and we know the Hawks have an ageing midfield group. MacDonald was another to put his case forward in Hawthorn’s internal trial. MacDonald took another step towards a Round 1 berth, getting his hands on the footy, with assistant coach Stephen Gilham remarking on commentary that he is “ready to go.” MacDonald continued his promising pre-season with 16 disposals, a goal and 52 points against the Tigers in the Community Series.
DB: BUY. His junior numbers are impressive, and he has been shown enough as a bench pick during the practice games. It’s a toss-up between him and Soligo for me, and I’m leaning towards MacDonald.
TP: BUY. Looks the best of a very small group of $117k midfield rookies that in the Round 1 mix. Looms as a popular bench pick.
Jake Soligo (Carl) $117,300 MID
2021 SC Ave: 114 (NAB League) 2022 PS score: 31, 45 (38)
Predicted average: 50-55 Job security: Low
There were some comparisons made to Swan Errol Gulden around draft time, given Soligo’s foot skills, clean hands at ground level and footy IQ. And that should get the attention of all KFC SuperCoaches. The 18-year-old matched it with the bigger bodies in the VFL last year and averaged 23 disposals, 10 contested possessions and six tackles in the NAB League. After being sighted with the stronger Crows side in match simulation, Soligo shapes as a Round 1 bolter. Soligo had some nice moments on a wing in Adelaide’s pre-season hitout, but managed just 31 points. He performed slightly better in the Community Series, where he scored 45 points from nine touches and 66 per cent time-on-ground.
DB: CONSIDER. Being a confirmed starter for round 1 with Jordan Dawson in the side is a good sign. But are there better options with greater job security?
TP: CONSIDER. Could hold his place in the side for Round 1 if recruit Jordan Dawson isn’t right to go. Scoring is a concern, but at least he might be there.
2021 SC Ave: 30.8 (AFL), 101 (VFL) 2022 PS score: 63
Predicted average: 65-70 Job security: High
On the surface, Stephen’s average of 30.8 from six matches in his second season sets off alarm bells. But Stephens was hardly given a chance by John Longmire, spending just 49.4 per cent of his time on the park. It looks it it’ll be a different story in 2022, and that’s straight from the Horse’s mouth: “Dylan Stephens is one that really stands out. He has been training at a really high intensity and he’s put on some size, which we wanted him to do.” The top-five draft pick, who averaged 101 points and 28 disposals in the reserves last year, looms as a possible on-field cheapie option. Gathered 20 possessions and scored 83 points against North Melbourne, franking a strong pre-season.
DB: BUY. With the shortage of cheaper midfield rookies, Stephens is a possible bench or on-field option.
TP: BUY. Ticks more boxes than some draftees and provides plenty of value at that price in his third season. M8 for me.
Brady Hough (WCE) $117,300 MID
2021 SC Ave: 114 (WAFL), 117 (WAFLC) 2022 PS scores: 11, 47 (29)
Predicted average: 50-55 Job security: High
An athletic utility with good skills, Hough turned heads in his sole WAFL senior appearance for Peel Thunder last year, tallying 22 disposals, nine marks, a goal and 114 points. The 190cm product played a variety of different roles at WAFL Colts and state level, and was another young Eagle to show promise in their intra-club game off half-back. Hough showed promise out of defence in the Community Series, tallying 14 disposals, eight marks and 47 points, with teammate Jack Redden declaring post-match that Hough is ready to go.
DB: BUY. West Coast’s injury crisis has worked in his favour, and he should have a nice role across halfback.
TP: BUY. The space at Optus Stadium will suit the composed draftee and he’s another to consider for the bench, depending on which other rookies are named.
Connor MacDonald (Haw) $117,300 MID
2021 SC Ave: 148 (NAB League) 2022 PS score: 52
Predicted average: 55-60 Job security: Medium
MacDonald was a ball-winning machine for the Dandenong Stingrays, averaging 30 disposals, 14 contested possessions, seven inside 50s, five clearances and 148 KFC SuperCoach points per game in the NAB League last season. The midfielder’s professionalism should hold him in good stead as he vies for a debut, and we know the Hawks have an ageing midfield group. MacDonald was another to put his case forward in Hawthorn’s internal trial. MacDonald took another step towards a Round 1 berth, getting his hands on the footy, with assistant coach Stephen Gilham remarking on commentary that he is “ready to go.” MacDonald continued his promising pre-season with 16 disposals, a goal and 52 points against the Tigers in the Community Series.
DB: BUY. His junior numbers are impressive, and he has been shown enough as a bench pick during the practice games. It’s a toss-up between him and Soligo for me, and I’m leaning towards MacDonald.
TP: BUY. Looks the best of a very small group of $117k midfield rookies that in the Round 1 mix. Looms as a popular bench pick.
Jake Soligo (Carl) $117,300 MID
2021 SC Ave: 114 (NAB League) 2022 PS score: 31, 45 (38)
Predicted average: 50-55 Job security: Low
There were some comparisons made to Swan Errol Gulden around draft time, given Soligo’s foot skills, clean hands at ground level and footy IQ. And that should get the attention of all KFC SuperCoaches. The 18-year-old matched it with the bigger bodies in the VFL last year and averaged 23 disposals, 10 contested possessions and six tackles in the NAB League. After being sighted with the stronger Crows side in match simulation, Soligo shapes as a Round 1 bolter. Soligo had some nice moments on a wing in Adelaide’s pre-season hitout, but managed just 31 points. He performed slightly better in the Community Series, where he scored 45 points from nine touches and 66 per cent time-on-ground.
DB: CONSIDER. Being a confirmed starter for round 1 with Jordan Dawson in the side is a good sign. But are there better options with greater job security?
TP: CONSIDER. Could hold his place in the side for Round 1 if recruit Jordan Dawson isn’t right to go. Scoring is a concern, but at least he might be there.