Last season the Lions discovered an exciting defender when they debuted Jason Roe. He could play on all types of players and provided a lot of run from the back. He missed the end of the season with a knee injury and it was uncertain as to whether he would be ready for round 1, but Brisbane have included Roe in their squad to play the Bulldogs.
Squad and injury news from the Brisbane Lions: Two changes for Lions
AFL Fantasy Impact:
Roe was one of the best fantasy players last season for not only statistics but also value. He started at the lowest price in fantasy leagues but would quickly rise in value after every round he played. He would finish among the top 5 players on his team for average statistics, and if he is healthy it would be expected that he repeats that in 2007. If the Lions use Merrett and Brennan in their key defensive spots they can play Roe as a third tall defender or as a loose player in the back line. That should give Roe plenty of freedom to run around collecting statistics and he should continue to be one of the top 100 fantasy players in the AFL. Last season Roe had a better fantasy points per game average than Petrie, Rivers, Clement, Mundy and Barry. You will have to pay 4 or 5 times the amount it cost last season to sign Roe for fantasy teams but he could still be worth it as long as he is recovered from his injury.
The Eagles may not have won in 2006 if it wasn't for big Lynch and his glove. They needed a big marking forward and last season Lynch did everything the Eagles wanted. Here is footage of when it all started, Lynch kicking his first goal, with his first kick in his first AFL game. This Youtube video has a lot of things you won't see now at AFL games, including Princes Park as a venue and Michael Collica and Luke Livingston playing. In Lynch’s first game the Eagles also had both Materas playing, as well as Jakovich, McIntosh and Merenda. Lynch was definitely not goalless in his first game, but he was gloveless.
Quinten Lynch First goal
Adelaide Crows: West Adelaide Bearcats
Both teams won but it is a while ago now. Rehn and Jarman brought them cups in 1997 and 1998, Leroy Loggins took West Adelaide to their only championship. The Crows now share the city of Adelaide with the Power in the AFL, but in the mid 1980s Adelaide was not big enough for two NBL teams so the Bearcats joined forces with the 36ers.
Brisbane Lions (Bears): Townsville Crocodiles (Suns)
A lion is more ferocious than a bear, especially the Bears team that had Capper and Hardie playing for them, changing the name was an improvement. The sun can hurt you, but you can just put on some sunscreen or find some shade, a much better name for a sporting team is to name it after a predator like the crocodile. Both these Queensland clubs improved after changing their names. The Lions were luckier because when they changed their name it not only brought in some extra players but also the ability to take Brown as a father/son pick. The Lions have played in 4 AFL Grand Finals since their name change, the Townsville Crocodiles also played in the 2001 NBL Grand Final.
Carlton Blues: Wollongong Hawks
They used to have good players, but both are rebuilding now. There has also been coaching controversy at both clubs, plenty of board meetings to vote on removing the coach.
Collingwood Magpies: Sydney Kings
A couple of the biggest teams in their sports. They have a lot of fans, as well as a lot of opposition fans who don't like them. The both have the big money and chase not only the best players but also the best coaches, Malthouse was who the Magpies wanted and they got him while the Sydney Kings brought in Brian Goorjian. The Sydney Kings were also a possibility to be compared to the Saints of the AFL, the Kings had the D-Train while the Saints now have the G-Train.
Essendon Bombers: Canberra Cannons
Both teams should have the firepower, according to their name, and in the past they did. Both Essendon and Canberra owned a large part of the 1980s in their leagues.
Fremantle Dockers: Eastside Melbourne Spectres
"The Man Mountain", the Spectres had the enormous Dean Uthoff and the Dockers currently have big Aaron Sandilands. Sandilands is one of the tallest sportspeople in Australian sport, Uthoff might have been the strongest person to compete in an Australian sporting league. Uthoff was only 3 or 4 centimetres shorter than Sandilands too. The Dockers can get past the Perth team in their league but can't get to a grand final, the Spectres could get to a grand final but in that series they couldn't get past the Perth team of the NBL.
Geelong Cats: West Sydney Razorbacks
They can get to grand finals but can't quite win the trophy. Both teams were built on scoring, but it didn't work in the most important games. The Cats did have a touch of the cash-flow problems a while ago but that has been solved, the Razorbacks are currently in a worse spot than Geelong was before Cook and Costa arrived.
Hawthorn Hawks: Southern Dragons
Both clubs handed their team over to a little guy called Shane who had bleached hair. Hawthorn went through one of their worst eras with Crawford as captain, the Dragons have just started so the jury is still out on player/coach Heal.
Kangaroos: North Melbourne Giants
No strangers to changing their name or possibly being relocated, or worse. But there was a time in the mid to late 1990s when the North Melbourne Kangaroos were a dominant team, and the North Melbourne Giants were a top team in the late 1980s and early 1990s.
Melbourne Demons: Hobart Tassie Devils
The Demons have a link with Tasmania and have recruited quite a few players from there, when Hobart played in the NBL a lot of their players were from Victoria. A couple of evil-sounding teams, one nearly merged while the other one was nowhere near as lucky and has disappeared from the NBL.
Port Adelaide Power: Adelaide 36ers
It's all about Dean Brogan, not the most important player for either club but he was a member of their title teams. A bench player for the 36ers, he was just a bit too short for his forward/centre role in basketball. But in the AFL he is one of the bigger players, and he plays a much bigger role, although he could still be considered a backup to Lade with the Power.
Richmond Tigers: New Zealand Breakers
They can play hard and compete but everyone soon sees that they don't have the players to contend. The Tigers need a big ruckman with good skills while the Breakers also need more size. But each club has loyal fans who make plenty of noise when they are winning.
St Kilda Saints: Southern Melbourne Saints
The basketball Saints may be gone but it is only 27 years since they were the champion, the AFL version needs to go back a lot more to their premiership season.
Sydney Swans: Melbourne Tigers
Each club had their league's biggest scorer, Lockett in Sydney and Gaze in Melbourne, but they have actually had more team success after those players left.
West Coast Eagles: Perth Wildcats
The city of Perth had a title from the Eagles in 1992 and 1994 and the Wildcats were champions in 1990, 1991 and 1995. In 1993 the Wildcats also made the NBL Grand Final. The Eagles have come back to dominate again, with their win last season, and the Wildcats are also close to contending now.
Western Bulldogs: Geelong Supercats
Underdogs from the west, of their city or state at least. Sometimes undersized but often entertaining, while most AFL clubs have a big body at full forward the Bulldogs have had success with Johnson and Robbins, when the Supercats last played in the NBL their best scorer was Bobby Locke who is even shorter than Brad Johnson. The Bulldogs might have been in trouble if they didn't keep Chris Grant when cashed-up clubs tried to recruit him, the Geelong Supercats once lost nearly their entire starting 5 to bigger clubs when players like Shane Heal, John Dorge and Terry Dozier all left at the same time.
Next Time: The NSL Teams
Biglands, Meesen, Tippett and now Maric won't be available for the Crows when the AFL season begins. Maric needs surgery to fix his hip injury and will have an extended stay on the injury list. Maric had a good start to his AFL career last season and it was expected that he would be the backup to Hudson this season.
Story from The Advertiser: Crows' crisis deepens
Short statement from the Crows: Maric to have surgery
At the end of last season there was the idea that the Crows would draft Clark Keating, or maybe even try to trade for Everitt, but they were happy with their ruck depth and only added young forward/ruckman Tippett in the draft. Even with the retirement, at the time, of Clarke and the injury to Biglands it did seem that the Crows had enough ruck options. Now the Crows are one injury away from playing Nathan Bassett in the ruck, the Crows didn't make the wrong decision at the time to not add another veteran ruckman they have just been unlucky.
AFL Fantasy Impact:
This should be the last mention of the Crows' ruck injuries. Instead of the Crows, and fantasy managers, having to decide who to pick there are only two options available for their ruck spots for round 1. Hudson will start and play a lot, which is great for fantasy statistics, while Griffin will rotate through the forward line, the bench and as the backup to Hudson in the ruck. When the fantasy competitions start, and that will be very soon, a good idea could be to sign both ruckmen from the Crows. Hudson should be very good, and Griffin will be cheap and his value will increase while he has also shown he can kick a goal. Maric will need time to recover, and then will probably be played in the SANFL for a few games. A third of the season could be completed before Maric plays for the Crows but when he does return he might have fantasy value if his price is low.
Ottens played one of his better games for Geelong on the weekend against his former team. The trivia question for today is what was the cost for Geelong, which players and/or draft picks were traded, to acquire Brad Ottens from Richmond?
The big preseason competition among the four ruck contenders at Adelaide is not going to eventuate as John Meesen will miss several months after injuring his knee in Adelaide's NAB Cup game against the Power and Ivan Maric also has an injury.
Adelaide's ruck injuries news, from The Advertiser: Crows hit by ruck crisis
AFL Fantasy Impact:
Maric might make it back for round 1, but you wouldn't want to be playing him in fantasy leagues. Hudson could be one of the better ruckmen and he showed that he is fully recovered after missing last season. Sign up Hudson, he won’t be as expensive as Cox or White but he may not be far behind them for fantasy points. Griffin has a long way to go to be a good ruckman but he can help the Crows, and fantasy teams, as a forward by kicking goals and taking marks. The Crows will need to play him as they need height in their forward line. An inexpensive player to sign for fantasy teams, Griffin would be a good idea for a fantasy bench ruckman. He was only eligible as a ruckman in fantasy competitions last season but he could also be a forward this time. Maybe Meesen gets back into the team halfway through the season, but for now don't sign him for fantasy teams.
1: Fremantle Dockers (4 in last AFL Power Rankings)
They are very impressive, and can still add Tarrant and others into the lineup.
2: Western Bulldogs (2)
McDougall looks like he will help, the Akermanis Era is just beginning. Griffen is improved, and might be an outsider for the Brownlow to consider.
3: West Coast Eagles (1)
There are problems in various areas there. But maybe all they need is Hansen playing, their good luck charm.
4: Sydney Swans (3)
Nothing to be worried about as Hall, O'Loughlin, Everitt, Roberts-Thomson, Schneider and many more will be playing soon.
5: Adelaide Crows (5)
Had to be very happy with Hudson, and he will have veterans like Ricciuto and Goodwin with him during the regular season. Bock was solid as a big forward, but they need to find more goals.
6: Geelong Cats (10)
Ottens has done this before, but he needs to consistently kick goals when the games really count. The addition of Selwood helps the Cats in the middle.
7: Melbourne Demons (6)
All they really need is Jeff White and Brock McLean, and they will have them to start the real games.
8: Hawthorn Hawks (11)
You can't stop Lance Franklin, you can only hope to contain him.
9: St Kilda Saints (7)
They led most of the way in the NAB Cup game without a lot of their team. As long as Riewoldt, Gehrig and Koschitzke are there in round 1 the Saints can be a force.
10: Essendon Bombers (8)
Lloyd will be much better next month. They lost, by a kick, but there were so many positives. The Bombers have great depth but they need to find the right combination on the field.
11: Port Adelaide Power (13)
Two huge ruckmen and a very fast and skilled midfield can win games. Lade and Brogan are in good form.
12: Collingwood Magpies (12)
When they add Fraser, Buckley, Rocca and other stars for round 1 it could be a different result.
13: Kangaroos (14)
Found the speed and excitement that they needed. But they won't be facing an undermanned team in the next round of the NAB Cup, that game will be a much better indicator of how good they are.
14: Brisbane Lions (15)
A win is a win, even in a flood. But for the real season it will all depend on big Brown.
15: Carlton Blues (16)
Waite and Kennedy will be much better at opposite ends of the ground, but the ruck is a big question as it always is.
16: Richmond Tigers (9)
Simmonds could be the key to their success, they need him there for round 1. They have a few concerns there, especially at full back.
Geelong v Richmond
Steven King: Had a solid game but it would not have translated into AFL fantasy points.
Brad Ottens: Played exclusively in the forward line and dominated, has to be considered for a fantasy spot on that form.
James Kelly: Back in favour, like most on his team he had plenty of the ball.
Joel Selwood: If he is a low-priced player then he has to be signed.
Shannon Byrnes: Found lots of space, and the football, but hasn't cemented a senior spot.
Cameron Mooney: Started at centre half forward and kicked 4 goals, could have good stats with S Johnson and Hawkins out.
Nathan Ablett: Had the third forward role, there were good signs with his play.
Mark Blake: Was the backup ruckman, could have a big role if King is out during the season.
Mathew Stokes: Kicked a goal and provided the needed speed around the forward line, should be a regular player this season.
Gary Ablett: Lots of goals and possessions, could take another step up in fantasy points this season.
Brent Prismall: A big game but may not be around when Geelong have all their players to pick from.
Sam Hunt: Will be a very cheap player to sign for fantasy teams if the Cats continue to play him.
Darren Milburn: Could have a serious injury, check injury news.
David Wojcinski: A big game with his speed taking the ball from the back, could be a very good fantasy player with that role.
Chris Newman: Was an above average fantasy player before and is back to that level.
Darren Gaspar: Was not good, never a big fantasy player and should be avoided again.
Brett Deledio: One of their best and is a player to sign for fantasy teams.
Andrew Raines: Will again be a very good fantasy player.
Graham Polak: Richmond will need to play him this season and he should improve greatly on his stats from 2006.
Nathan Brown: He is officially back to his best and will again be a good fantasy player.
Joel Bowden: As always he was a magnet for the football.
Matthew Richardson: A small leg injury.
Trent Knobel: Didn't do a lot with Simmonds out, there are better ruck options for fantasy AFL.
Dean Polo: Had a lot of the ball and will again be a good fantasy player.
Kayne Pettifer: A solid fantasy player and worth signing this season, kicked a goal in this game.
Shane Tuck: Played everywhere and that is great for fantasy statistics, will be a popular player for fantasy GMs.
Andrew Krakouer: Nowhere near his form from the All Stars game, and was reported.
Richard Tambling: Like a lot of their smalls, rotated through different spots, but will be in the middle more which should mean big fantasy numbers.
Cam Howat: One of their best, sign for fantasy when Richmond bring him off the rookie list.
Hawthorn v Melbourne
Jarryd Roughead: Played forward, a bit of a surprise move, kicked a couple of goals and could be a good fantasy forward this season.
Chance Bateman: Was very good and productive, a solid fantasy player.
Simon Taylor: Might have done enough for regular playing time in the ruck.
Grant Birchall: He is one of Hawthorn's best fantasy players, buy him early before his price goes up.
Beau Muston: Would be a bargain buy in fantasy leagues, doesn't have a senior spot yet but had a solid game against Melbourne.
Lance Franklin: If his fantasy price is what it was last season then Franklin is a definite buy.
Campbell Brown: Might have a problem with the tribunal.
Brent Renouf: Didn't have a problem when given a tall defensive role, might be a cheap fantasy player for the bench.
Clinton Young: Should stay in the side as he had a good game, could become a good fantasy player.
Nathan Jones: Looks like he will improve on his good debut year, can get a bit of the football.
Clint Bizzell: Will struggle to find a spot with the Demons, unlikely to have an impact on fantasy teams.
James Frawley: Did not have a bad start to his career, a cheap fantasy backman to store on your fantasy bench.
David Neitz: Took strong marks, and was mobile at ground-level too, will continue to be a very good fantasy forward.
Lynden Dunn: Had some good plays, was more effective than Miller so maybe Dunn plays round 1.
Chris Johnson: His best ever performance, won't cost much to buy in fantasy leagues so a player to conisder if he is there for round 1.
Russell Robertson: Was in one of his jumping moods, that usually brings in marks, goals and therefore fantasy points.
Nathan Brown: Did not play a lot in 2006 but when he did he got fantasy points, he had a good game here.
Jared Rivers: Is one of the better tall defenders for AFL fantasy and he confirmed that again with a good performance.
Cameron Bruce: Was in top form, and worth the top price in fantasy leagues.
Mark Jamar: Don't play Jamar in fantasy games, White will be back for round 1.
Fremantle v West Coast
Luke Webster: Did enough and might cement a regular spot.
Paul Hasleby: Controlled the middle well and had plenty of the football.
Dean Solomon: Seemed to get into the action as a forward, might be able to improve his numbers from 2006.
Des Headland: Looked better than last season, his skills and accuracy are back.
Ryan Crowley: Showed he can also kick goals.
James Walker: Played his best football, a bargain in fantasy leagues if he keeps that up.
Justin Longmuir: Took a while to get going but then was good, can be inconsistent in fantasy but should be good in 2007.
Aaron Sandilands: The Dockers' idea for him to go forward a lot should result in a few more goals and fantasy numbers.
Roger Hayden: Had a very good game and had a lot of the ball, would have gotten plenty of fantasy points.
Mark LeCras: Was played in a couple of spots and could be useful for fantasy, depending on his price.
Ben Cousins: Had plenty of the ball, as always.
Matt Priddis: He got plenty of the ball, although with other midfielders out, but a player to consider for fantasy teams.
Jaymie Graham: Doesn't quite have the game for accumulating fantasy points.
Matt Rosa: Seemed to be by himself a lot, that will get him plenty of fantasy points.
Steven Armstrong: Had a bigger role, kicked a goal and was very prominent around half forward.
Brent Staker: Played as a forward, should become a regular player for them again.
David Wirrpanda: In his usual role in the back half, which gets him fantasy points.
AFL Fantasy Player News: McDougall Dominates, Waite Moves To The Backline
Western Bulldogs v Sydney
Ryan Griffen: Could be a better fantasy player this season, was great in this game.
Cameron Faulkner: Provided a lot of run and could be an inclusion for round 1.
Jason Akermanis: Started in the middle, a good sign for statistics for the regular season.
Will Minson: Showed a lot of skills and would be a star fantasy ruckman if he didn't split minutes with Street.
Matthew Robbins: Kicked a couple of goals, a good fantasy player but never stars.
Andrew McDougall: Could be a fantasy player this season, will be a player to sign early.
Wayde Skipper: A backup to Minson in this game, but Street should be back next time, Skipper's not a fantasy player if the Bulldogs have their other ruckman healthy.
Brian Harris: In good form, but is suspended for the first 2 rounds.
Cameron Wight: A slight injury after a big mark, should be a better fantasy player this season and has a low price.
Malcolm Lynch: Did well in his first game, with 3 goals, so a possible bench player in fantasy teams.
Ryan O’Keefe: Will find it easier when the rest of the Swans are there with him in the forward line.
Nick Malceski: Injured in the second half, but will be important for them when he is playing. Check the injury news though.
Jesse White: Had a good start to his career, a player for the future.
Ted Richards: Played again as a forward, with Hall and O'Loughlin out.
Sean Dempster: Had a bigger role with several other defenders out.
Brett Kirk: Is playing very well and will again be one of the top AFL fantasy midfielders.
Adam Goodes: Did play in this game, didn't play a lot but what he did was high quality as always.
Carlton v Essendon
Marc Murphy: Will be worth the higher price this season for fantasy leagues.
Bryce Gibbs: Didn't star in this game, so sign him but don't start him for round 1.
Josh Kennedy: Should be cheap to buy in fantasy leagues, he did enough in this game to show he will be a big improver this season.
Jason Saddington: Didn't really have a position available, won't have fantasy value unless injuries hit.
Cain Ackland: Not going to be a good fantasy ruckman, judging by this game, but he could improve as it was his first game there.
Setanta O’hAilpin: Should be their number 1 key defender, could be a low-cost option for fantasy teams.
Cameron Cloke: Might have a future in fantasy AFL leagues.
Jarrad Waite: Could have a big leap in stats this season as he collects possessions across half back.
Ryan Houlihan: Started good, ended not as well, but he does get fantasy points.
Angus Monfries: Kicked 3 goals, his fantasy stats could go up a bit this season.
Jason Winderlich: Had a big game and could be a bargain buy in fantasy leagues.
Andrew Lovett: Did a lot and should have a better and more consistent season in 2007 than last year.
Kepler Bradley: Not good for fantasy stats last season, is now freed from a key post and might do more if the Bombers continue to play him more up the ground.
Matthew Lloyd: Was quiet but it was his first game in a long time, but you shouldn't pay a top 10 price for him this season.
David Hille: Was solid and should again be a top fantasy ruckman.
Courtney Johns: The Bombers still have to adjust their forward setup, Johns may not be a good fantasy player next to Lloyd.
Mal Michael: The back line seemed a bit confused at times, when they get it figured out Michael should have a similar role and similar stats to his previous seasons.
Richard Cole: Not as good as he was against the All Stars, still needs to cement his spot with Essendon before being signed for fantasy teams.
Alwyn Davey: A good strategy could be signing him at a cheap price for a bench spot on your fantasy team.
St Kilda v Brisbane
Xavier Clarke: Looked in much better form, someone to consider for a fantasy back line spot.
Andrew Thompson: Was a big player as the Saints were without Dal Santo, Hayes and others in the middle.
Brendon Goddard: At times he seemed to be playing a lot further up the ground.
David Armitage: Will have a lot more stats when he isn't playing during a storm, a good signing for a fantasy bench spot.
Matthew Ferguson: Had a big game and might be a chance for regular senior games.
Barry Brooks: Kicked a couple of early goals, might be playing in round 1.
Jason Blake: Not a ruckman now, did provide a marking target up forward.
Matthew Clarke: It is unlikely that Clarke will be a good fantasy player this season unless several other ruckmen are out.
Michael Rix: Could still be in the running for their top ruck spot, but won't have big fantasy numbers.
James Gwilt: Was a good player, but may not play if Hudghton and Maguire are ready.
Jarryd Allen: Managed a goal in his first game with the Saints, a fantasy option if many other forwards there are out.
Chris Johnson: Should have a better season for stats in 2007.
Justin Sherman: One of their better players, and is now one of the top AFL fantasy players.
Jared Brennan: One of those players who is better in leagues that count totals, and not effectiveness of disposals.
Jamie Charman: Will be their number 1 ruckman, and useful for fantasy teams.
Daniel Merrett: He won't cost a lot in fantasy leagues, he will play more this season so his stats might be a bit better.
Robert Copeland: A huge game and could be a good player for fantasy teams this season.
Sam Sheldon: Could be someone to sign for fantasy later in the season.
AFL Fantasy Player News: Griffin Arrives For Crows, Thomas Stars For Kangaroos
Port Adelaide v Adelaide
Steven Salopek: Was in good form and looks set to improve on his great season last year, will be a star in fantasy games.
Peter Burgoyne: Not the best player in his family, but one of the best on the ground this game.
Shaun Burgoyne: Had a lot of the ball and will be a top fantasy player.
David Rodan: Was very useful and might find a spot on the Power team, could be a cheap bench forward for fantasy teams.
Dean Brogan: Could have broken his nose, that should not affect his regular season production.
Michael Wilson: Stepped up and is now the veteran in the back line, got a lot of stats and could have a big fantasy year.
Brett Ebert: Kicked a couple and setup a few more, much better fantasy player with Tredrea out.
Tom Logan: Will be inexpensive for fantasy AFL and is a player to consider signing.
John Meesen: Went down with an injury early. He’s out of the running for their backup ruck spot now.
Scott Thompson: Was all over the ground and should be one of the better Crows' fantasy players this season.
Jonathan Griffin: Great as a forward early, didn't do well in the ruck, but pencil him in as a cheap fantasy player for your bench.
Nathan Bassett: Lots of statistics in the back half like he always does.
Tyson Edwards: He was the captain for this game, he kicked goals and had plenty of the ball.
Ben Hudson: Might have been the Crows' best player, did enough to once again be a very good fantasy ruckman.
Scott Welsh: Kicked a couple of goals and was very active, back in contention for a fantasy forward spot.
Andrew McLeod: Didn't do a lot in this game, but still a great fantasy backman/midfielder.
Scott Stevens: Kicked a goal and covered plenty of ground, a solid fantasy player.
Jason Porplyzia: Could be a big player this season and is a bit of a fantasy sleeper.
Nathan Bock: Played forward and was a very good player, should be on lots of fantasy teams.
Kangaroos v Collingwood
Hamish McIntosh: Was solid but for fantasy he doesn't play enough with Moran there too.
Jonathan Hay: Retired.
Shannon Grant: Active around the forward line and scored a couple of goals, a good fantasy forward.
Daniel Wells: Was in great form, add him to your fantasy teams.
Jess Sinclair: Their best midfielder, a great fantasy player.
Lindsay Thomas: 4 goals from Thomas, a player to sign for fantasy, on the bench or maybe starting as a forward.
Brad Moran: Is very mobile, and would be a good fantasy ruckman, but will split minutes with McIntosh.
Corey Jones: Seemed to be by himself in the forward half, just kept getting the ball. Top quality fantasy forward.
Nathan Thompson: Not a star fantasy forward in recent years, he only had 1 goal in this game.
Aaron Edwards: Showed a lot of aerial ability and is worth a spot on a fantasy bench.
David Hale: Started slow but has potential as a tall forward, watch his next game to see if he improves.
Matt Campbell: A very impressive display from the rookie-listed player, he could be elevated soon, he will be the cheapest player to sign.
Sean Rusling: Didn't perform great, but the ball wasn't down his end a lot.
Paul Medhurst: Did get the ball a bit, he could get back to being a solid fantasy forward.
Scott Pendlebury: Not really a fantasy sleeper, as he had a few good games last season, but is a player to sign and will be cheap.
Shane Wakelin: Had a good game, but won't go as well when Collingwood have Clement and Prestigiacomo playing.
Scott Burns: Many veterans missed this game, Burns played and showed he can have another great fantasy AFL season.
Harry O’Brien: Was injured, but had some good runs through the middle during the game, he has fantasy potential.
Travis Cloke: There were times when he was very good, a player to consider for fantasy.
Chris Bryan: Didn't do a lot with his new team, but has the skills to be a solid fantasy forward or ruckman.
As the teams are using preseason games to get ready for the real season, the player news from the games will help you assemble your AFL fantasy teams.
Kangaroos full back Jonathan Hay has announced his retirement. The timing of the announcement may have been a surprise, as he was even named in the squad to play Collingwood, but his decision to quit is not a shock.
Kangaroos’ statement: Hay quits Kangaroos
AFL Fantasy Impact:
There is a happy rookie at the Kangaroos with a spot opening up, Campbell might be the player that is elevated to the senior list. Looking at his NAB Cup game, Campbell could play a few senior games this season if added to their main list and might also be someone to add in a fantasy team spot. Hay leaving will also secure Watt’s position in the senior side, Watt doesn’t produce a lot of stats but he did play up the ground more against Collingwood.
This will be updated and adjusted after the NAB Cup, with more information included about each player too. Players are ranked out of 10, for what their expected fantasy stats could be in season 2007. 10 is the best, and only Goodes and Judd get that mark for now, while a rank of 1 will indicate the player won't be playing in 2007. Like everything else in the AFL fantasy section on this site, these are ideas and options that might help you select players for your fantasy team. Past statistics, injuries, suspensions, preseason form, expected role, and many other aspects of the players' skills and attributes were used to give the players a fantasy ranking.
Nathan Bassett 8
Rhett Biglands 1
Nathan Bock 7
Matthew Bode 7
Brett Burton 9
Bryce Campbell 3
Michael Doughty 8
Richard Douglas 6
Tyson Edwards 9
Nick Gill 3
Simon Goodwin 9
Jonathon Griffin 4
Trent Hentschel 1
John Hinge 2
Benjamin Hudson 6
Luke Jericho 2
Graham Johncock 9
Chris Knights 4
David MacKay 2
Ivan Maric 3
Kris Massie 4
Martin Mattner 8
Ken McGregor 5
Andrew McLeod 9
John Meesen 3
Ian Perrie 5
Darren Pfeiffer 3
Jason Porplyzia 7
Brent Reilly 7
Mark Ricciuto 8
Ben Rutten 5
James Sellar 3
Robert Shirley 6
Scott Stevens 6
Scott Thompson 8
Kurt Tippett 2
Jason Torney 4
Nathan van Berlo 4
Bernie Vince 2
Scott Welsh 7
Jed Adcock 7
Marcus Allan 3
Simon Black 9
Daniel Bradshaw 7
Jared Brennan 4
Jonathan Brown 9
Jamie Charman 7
Mitchell Clark 3
Robert Copeland 4
Josh Drummond 7
Ben Fixter 4
Pat Garner 3
Richard Hadley 4
Scott Harding
James Hawksley 2
Rhan Hooper 4
Chris Johnson 6
Nigel Lappin 6
Matthew Leuenberger 3
Joel Macdonald 5
Beau McDonald 2
Ashley McGrath 4
Daniel Merrett 3
Wayde Mills 2
Matthew Moody 6
Tim Notting 6
Joel Patfull 5
Luke Power 9
Albert Proud 4
Michael Rischitelli 7
Jason Roe 7
Chris Schmidt 4
Christopher Scott 5
Troy Selwood 6
Sam Sheldon 2
Justin Sherman 8
Cheynee Stiller 7
Matt Tyler 2
Cameron Wood 4
Cain Ackland 4
Joe Anderson 3
Mark Austin 2
Jordan Bannister 2
Clinton Benjamin 2
Adam Bentick 6
Eddie Betts 5
Luke Blackwell 6
Paul Bower 4
Andrew Carrazzo 6
Cameron Cloke 2
Jake Edwards 3
Brendan Fevola 8
Bradley Fisher 4
Craig Flint 2
Bryce Gibbs 7
Shaun Grigg 3
Shaun Hampson 2
Adam Hartlett 2
Ryan Houlihan 6
Josh Kennedy 6
Anthony Koutoufides 6
Matthew Lappin 5
Dylan McLaren 3
Marc Murphy 8
Setanta O'hAilpin 5
Anthony Raso 2
Jordan Russell 3
Jason Saddington 3
Heath Scotland 9
Kade Simpson 8
Nick Stevens 8
David Teague 2
Bret Thornton 7
Jarrad Waite 6
Andrew Walker 7
Lance Whitnall 9
Simon Wiggins 5
John Anthony 2
Nathan Brown 3
Chris Bryan 3
Nathan Buckley 9
Scott Burns 7
James Clement 7
Travis Cloke 3
Ryan Cook 2
Shannon Cox 2
Benjamin Davies 2
Leon Davis 4
Chris Dawes 1
Brad Dick 2
Alan Didak 8
Chris Egan 5
Josh Fraser 8
Tyson Goldsack 2
Brodie Holland 6
Sam Iles 3
Ben Johnson 7
Paul Licuria 5
Tarkyn Lockyer 7
Ryan Lonie 7
Nick Maxwell 6
Paul Medhurst 5
Shane O'Bree 7
Harry O'Brien 4
Scott Pendlebury 5
Simon Prestigiacomo 4
Ben Reid 3
Guy Richards 2
Anthony Rocca 6
Sean Rusling 6
Heath Shaw 9
Rhyce Shaw 5
Daniel Stanley 2
Dane Swan 8
Dale Thomas 6
Alan Toovey 2
Shane Wakelin 3
Mark Bolton 2
Kepler Bradley 3
Scott Camporeale 5
Richard Cole 4
Alwyn Davey 3
Courtenay Dempsey 3
Ricky Dyson 4
Dustin Fletcher 9
Scott Gumbleton 3
Chris Heffernan 4
David Hille 8
James Hird 9
Tom Hislop 5
Bachar Houli 2
Leroy Jetta 4
Courtney Johns 4
Jason Johnson 7
Mark Johnson 6
Jason Laycock 4
Andrew Lee 2
Matthew Lloyd 9
Sam Lonergan 3
Andrew Lovett 5
Nathan Lovett-Murray 8
Scott Lucas 8
Adam McPhee 7
Mark McVeigh 4
Mal Michael 4
Angus Monfries 5
Jay Nash 4
Jay Neagle 3
Damien Peverill 5
Kyle Reimers 2
Paddy Ryder 2
Henry Slattery 3
Brent Stanton 9
Jobe Watson 9
Andrew Welsh 7
Jason Winderlich 4
Peter Bell 9
Heath Black 7
Andrew Browne 2
Adam Campbell 2
Josh Carr 8
Matthew Carr 5
Clayton Collard 3
Troy Cook 5
Ryan Crowley 5
Steven Dodd 5
Marcus Drum 3
Paul Duffield 4
Ryley Dunn 3
Jeff Farmer 7
Daniel Gilmore
Antoni Grover 5
Robert Haddrill 5
Paul Hasleby 8
Roger Hayden 5
Des Headland 7
Garrick Ibbotson 3
Michael Johnson 8
Justin Longmuir 7
Shaun McManus 5
Luke McPharlin
Calib Mourish 2
David Mundy 8
Ryan Murphy 5
Brock O'Brien 2
Shane Parker 5
Matthew Pavlich 9
Brett Peake 8
Aaron Sandilands 6
Byron Schammer 5
Dean Solomon 6
Chris Tarrant 7
Scott Thornton 3
James Walker 3
Robert Warnock 2
Luke Webster 5
Gary Ablett 9
Nathan Ablett 5
Jimmy Bartel 9
Mark Blake 2
Shannon Byrnes 4
Tim Callan 4
Paul Chapman 9
Joel Corey 9
Nathan Djerrkura 3
Matt Egan 4
Corey Enright 9
Ryan Gamble 3
Charlie Gardiner 4
Tom Harley 4
Tom Hawkins 5
Simon Hogan 2
Sam Hunt 3
Josh Hunt 8
David Johnson 4
Steve Johnson 3
James Kelly 5
Steven King 4
Cameron Ling 8
Andrew Mackie 5
Darren Milburn 8
Cameron Mooney 6
Brad Ottens 7
Stephen Owen 2
Henry Playfair 3
Brent Prismall 2
Max Rooke 5
Matthew Scarlett 7
Joel Selwood 5
Matthew Spencer 2
Mathew Stokes 4
Kane Tenace 3
Travis Varcoe 3
Trent West 2
David Wojcinski 4
Max Bailey 1
Chance Bateman 5
Grant Birchall 7
Tim Boyle 3
Campbell Brown 7
Robert Campbell 8
Tim Clarke 4
Shane Crawford 8
Trent Croad 5
Zac Dawson 2
Ben Dixon 4
Beau Dowler 4
Xavier Ellis 4
Lance Franklin 7
Stephen Gilham 2
Brent Guerra 3
Luke Hodge 9
Danny Jacobs 6
Josh P. Kennedy 4
Rick Ladson 6
Jordan Lewis 5
Matthew Little 2
Ben McGlynn 2
Sam Mitchell 9
Jarryd Morton 2
Garry Moss 3
Thomas Murphy 4
Beau Muston 3
Michael Osborne 3
Brent Renouf 4
Jarryd Roughead 4
Brad Sewell 7
Joel Smith 4
Simon Taylor 2
Mitchell Thorp 4
Josh Thurgood 3
Travis Tuck 2
Richard Vandenberg 4
Mark Williams 6
Clinton Young 3
Glenn Archer 5
Leigh Brown 4
Aaron Edwards 4
Michael Firrito 4
Joshua Gibson 4
Todd Goldstein 2
Shannon Grant 7
Kasey Green 4
Blake Grima 2
David Hale 6
Lachlan Hansen 6
Leigh Harding 1
Daniel Harris 8
Brent Harvey 7
Jonathan Hay 1
Corey Jones 8
Ed Lower 2
Daniel McConnell 6
Hamish McIntosh 5
Scott McMahon 2
Brad Moran 5
Drew Petrie 8
Daniel Pratt 7
Brady Rawlings 7
Matt Riggio 3
Ben Ross 3
Eddie Sansbury 3
Adam Simpson 8
Jess Sinclair 8
Jesse W. Smith 4
Andrew Swallow 3
Lindsay Thomas 4
Nathan Thompson 6
David Trotter 2
Callum Urch 2
Gavin Urquhart 3
Ben Warren 2
Shannon Watt 4
Daniel Wells 8
Djaran Whyman 4
Clint Bartram 5
Matthew Bate 6
Daniel Bell 4
Clint Bizzell 3
Nathan D. Brown 4
Cameron Bruce 9
Simon Buckley 2
Nathan Carroll 4
Aaron Davey 7
Lynden Dunn 5
Ryan Ferguson 2
James Frawley 3
Colin Garland 2
Simon Godfrey 4
Brad Green 8
Ben Holland 4
Mark Jamar 3
Chris Johnson 3
Paul Johnson 3
Travis Johnstone 8
Nathan Jones 6
James McDonald 9
Brock McLean 9
Brad Miller 6
Brent Moloney 7
David Neitz 7
Heath Neville 2
Michael Newton 2
Ricky Petterd 3
Byron Pickett 4
Jared Rivers 8
Russell Robertson 6
Colin Sylvia 5
Daniel Ward 6
Matthew Warnock 2
Isaac Weetra 2
Paul Wheatley 4
Matthew Whelan 8
Jeff White 8
Adem Yze 7
Greg Bentley 4
Travis Boak 6
Dean Brogan 6
Peter Burgoyne 7
Shaun Burgoyne 9
Alipate Carlile 2
Domenic Cassisi 7
Troy Chaplin 7
Adam Cockshell 2
Chad Cornes 9
Kane Cornes 9
Fabian Deluca 2
Brett Ebert 6
Jonathan Giles 2
Robert Gray 2
Nathan Krakouer 3
Brendon Lade 8
Tom Logan 4
Nathan Lonie 7
Nick Lower 3
Josh Mahoney 6
Hugh Minson 2
Daniel Motlop 5
Danyle Pearce 7
Michael Pettigrew 4
David Rodan 3
Steven Salopek 9
Paul Stewart 2
Jacob Surjan 5
Brad Symes 8
Matt Thomas 3
Adam Thomson 3
Toby Thurstans 3
Warren Tredrea 6
Darryl Wakelin 3
Justin Westhoff 2
Damon White 4
Ryan Williams 2
Ryan Willits 3
Michael Wilson 5
Joel Bowden 9
Patrick Bowden 8
Nathan G. Brown 6
Travis Casserly 3
Andrew Collins 2
Daniel Connors 2
Mark Coughlan 1
Brett Deledio 8
Shane Edwards 3
Nathan Foley 5
Darren Gaspar 3
Ray Hall 3
Brent Hartigan 4
Cleve Hughes 4
Chris Hyde 3
Daniel Jackson 2
Kane Johnson 6
Kent Kingsley 3
Trent Knobel 4
Andrew Krakouer 6
Luke McGuane 2
Danny Meyer 3
Kelvin Moore 3
Chris Newman 6
Jarrad Oakley-Nicholls 3
Adam Pattison 3
Carl Peterson 2
Kayne Pettifer 8
Graham Polak 5
Dean Polo 6
Andrew Raines 7
Matthew Richardson 8
Jack Riewoldt 3
Jay Schulz 3
Troy Simmonds 7
Richard Tambling 6
Will Thursfield 3
Greg Tivendale 7
Shane Tuck 8
Matthew White 4
Jarryd Allen 4
David Armitage 6
Steven Baker 5
Luke Ball 8
Shane Birss 4
Jason Blake 2
Barry Brooks 4
Matthew Clarke 4
Raphael Clarke 2
Xavier Clarke 5
Nick Dal Santo 8
Matthew Ferguson 2
Aaron Fiora 4
Leigh Fisher 7
Samuel Fisher 8
Michael Gardiner 5
Fraser Gehrig 7
Sam Gilbert 3
Brendon Goddard 8
Jason Gram 7
James Gwilt 3
Aaron Hamill 4
Robert Harvey 7
Lenny Hayes 8
Brad Howard 3
Max Hudghton 5
Justin Koschitzke 7
Matthew Maguire 6
Andrew McQualter 3
Stephen Milne 4
Leigh Montagna 6
Phillip Raymond
Nick Riewoldt 8
Michael Rix 3
Justin Sweeney 3
Andrew Thompson 4
Brett Voss 5
Fergus Watts 3
Luke Ablett 5
Leo Barry 7
Paul Bevan 5
Craig Bolton 8
Jude Bolton 8
Ryan Brabazon 3
Amon Buchanan 8
Jared Crouch 5
Daniel Currie 2
Nick Davis 6
Sean Dempster 5
Stephen Doyle 3
Peter Everitt 6
Peter Faulks 2
Nic Fosdike 5
Adam Goodes 10
Heath Grundy 2
Barry Hall 9
Darren Jolly 5
Tadhg Kennelly 7
Brett Kirk 9
Matthew Laidlaw 3
Nick Malceski 4
Ben Mathews 4
Jarrad McVeigh 5
Jarred Moore 2
Daniel O'Keefe 3
Ryan O'Keefe 9
Michael O'Loughlin 7
Simon Phillips 3
Ted Richards 4
Lewis Roberts-Thomson 3
Tim Schmidt 2
Adam Schneider 6
Jonathan Simpkin 2
Kristin Thornton 2
Luke Vogels 4
Jesse White 3
Steven Armstrong 4
Michael Braun 7
Mitchell Brown 3
Sam Butler 7
Daniel Chick 4
Ben Cousins 9
Dean Cox 9
Andrew Embley 7
Chad Fletcher 7
Darren Glass 5
Jaymie Graham 3
Ashley Hansen 5
Tim Houlihan 2
Adam Hunter 6
Shannon Hurn 2
Brett Jones 4
Rowan Jones 5
Chris Judd 10
Daniel Kerr 8
Mark LeCras 5
Quinten Lynch 7
Eric MacKenzie 3
Ben McKinley 2
Mitch Morton 2
Mark Nicoski 4
Matthew Priddis 4
Matthew Rosa 5
Ashley Sampi 3
Will Schofield 2
Mark Seaby 3
Adam Selwood 6
Matthew Spangher 2
Brent Staker 4
Tyson Stenglein 8
James Thomson 2
Beau Waters 4
David Wirrpanda 8
Josh Wooden 2
Dylan Addison 4
Jason Akermanis 8
Travis Baird 2
Matthew Boyd 7
Adam Cooney 8
Daniel Cross 9
Luke Darcy 4
Nathan Eagleton 5
Andrejs Everitt 3
Cameron Faulkner 4
Daniel Giansiracusa 7
Lindsay Gilbee 9
Chris Grant 6
Ryan Griffen 6
Mitchell Hahn 5
Ryan Hargrave 5
Brian Harris 5
Shaun Higgins 2
Josh Hill 2
Brad Johnson 9
Malcolm Lynch 3
Damian McCormack 2
Andrew McDougall 5
Jordan McMahon 7
William Minson 4
Brett Montgomery 4
Dale Morris 5
Robert Murphy 6
Paul OShea 2
Sam Power 4
Farren Ray 5
Matthew Robbins 4
Wayde Skipper 3
Brennan Stack 2
Peter Street 5
Stephen Tiller 3
Tim Walsh 3
Scott West 9
Cameron Wight 4
Tom Williams 3
If you want to see if you were paying attention over the AFL offseason then try this trivia game at the afl.com site. Question 6 might be answered by looking at the picture on the page to the right of the questions.
Think you know your footy?
The answers to the questions will be on their site soon.
Important Outs:
R Smith, S Birss, A Morgan
Important Ins:
J Akermanis, A Everitt, A McDougall
Injury News:
L Darcy (knee, might not be ready for opening rounds of regular season)
Fantasy Stars:
West and Johnson were superstars last season and that should continue, but there is always a chance that at their age they might slow down a bit. The Bulldogs have plenty of youngsters ready to take over from those two and you can also expect huge stats from Gilbee, Cross, Cooney and Giansuracusa. The Bulldogs also welcome Akermanis, and he will become one of their best fantasy players. Other Bulldogs who could be highly-ranked in AFL fantasy leagues include McMahon, Boyd, Ray and Griffen.
Possible Fantasy Stars:
Chris Grant is still going and is a solid fantasy player.
Harris does miss a couple of early games but after that he is a good option for a fantasy full back.
Hahn was a good fantasy player before his injury, it might take him a few rounds but he should get close to his 2006 numbers.
McDougall has been solid for fantasy stats when he has played, maybe he is someone to consider.
Don't overpay for Eagleton, he does get stats but his price is often too high.
Morris and Hargrave had solid stats for fantasy defenders last season.
Darcy hasn't played for a long time, so don't expect big numbers early in the season, but he might produce solid fantasy numbers after he has played a few games.
Possible Fantasy Sleeper:
Robert Murphy. With the addition of McDougall, the possible return of Darcy and the drafting of Everitt there should not be a reason for the Bulldogs to play Murphy in a key position. He should have an easier time playing around half forward, with a licence to run all over the field getting marks and possessions. Instead of being an undersized key position player, like he was last season, he could be more of a forward/midfielder who often has a height and marking advantage over his opponent. This will all depend on if he returns totally recovered from his injury.
First Year Players For AFL Fantasy:
The Bulldogs drafted young projects with their picks in the AFL National Draft. So don't expect Everitt or any of the other youngsters to play a lot. The NAB Cup might give an indication of how far off Everitt is, and if he does get a game later in the season he might be useful for fantasy play as he can play a role in the back line where he accumulates a lot of the ball.
Rhan Hooper is back with the Brisbane Lions but it will be several months before he could be playing AFL football after he missed preseason training.
Story from Brisbane newspaper The Courier-Mail: Lions fine Hooper
AFL Fantasy Impact:
The Lions do need Hooper out there as he is one of their better small forwards. Maybe he makes an appearance in round 6 or 8, or later in the season , and he might be worth a fantasy spot if his price is low. Last season, Hooper’s price in fantasy leagues tripled in value, so he is a player to watch.
Geelong v Richmond
Geelong squad: 1. Steven King, 2. Tom Harley, 3. Jimmy Bartel, 4. Andrew Mackie, 6. Brad Ottens, 7. Tim Callan, 8. Josh Hunt, 9. James Kelly, 11. Joel Corey, 14. Joel Selwood, 16. Charlie Gardiner, 17. Shannon Byrnes, 18. Nathan Djerrkura, 19. Matthew Egan, 21. Cameron Mooney, 23. Nathan Ablett, 24. Mark Blake, 27. Mathew Stokes, 29. Gary Ablett, 30. Matthew Scarlett, 32. Brent Prismall, 36. Todd Grima, 37. Joel Reynolds, 38. Sam Hunt, 39. Darren Milburn, 40. David Wojcinski, 44. Corey Enright, 45. Cameron Ling.
What to watch, for picking AFL fantasy players:
With no Hawkins it is "other Ablett" who could establish himself as a big forward for the Cats. Nathan Ablett should have a good year, which will mean he is a steal for AFL fantasy leagues. The small forward spot at Geelong might be between little Byrnes and Stokes, they are both very quick but the Cats might only have a spot for one of them in the team. Sam Hunt has a good kick and it will be interesting to see if he gets a spot in their regular season team, and also something to watch is to see how many times he is called Josh. If Gibbs has already been anointed as a leader by Carlton then Selwood might be getting a similar spot with the Cats soon. Watch to see how Selwood handles the AFL but he should not have any problems and he will be a player who is on a lot of fantasy teams.
Richmond squad: 1. Chris Newman, 2. Darren Gaspar, 3. Brett Deledio, 4. Andrew Raines, 6. Graham Polak, 7. Nathan Brown, 10. Shane Edwards, 11. Joel Bowden, 12. Matthew Richardson, 13. Trent Knobel, 14. Dean Polo, 15. Kayne Pettifer, 16. Patrick Bowden, 17. Kane Johnson, 21. Shane Tuck, 22. Danny Meyer, 26. Adam Pattison, 27. Andrew Krakouer, 30. Richard Tambling, 31. Chris Hyde, 32. Greg Tivendale, 33. Brent Hartigan, 34. Cleve Hughes, 35. Matthew White, 40. Kelvin Moore, 41. Nathan Foley, 43. Cam Howat, 44. Angus Graham.
What to watch, for picking AFL fantasy players:
No Kingsley, that will be a disappointment to the fans there for both teams. It will be a forward line of Richardson and mostly some smalls, with Schulz and Riewoldt also out of this game. Maybe the ruck spot will produce a new fantasy player. Knobel, Pattison and Polak could all play there in this game and with Simmonds possibly out for round 1 a fantasy ruck could be found. Shane Edwards might be a player to sign for fantasy teams if the Tigers continue to play him.
Hawthorn v Melbourne
Hawthorn squad: 2. Jarryd Roughead, 3. Jordan Lewis, 4. Rick Ladson, 5. Sam Mitchell, 6. Mark Williams, 9. Shane Crawford, 10. Chance Bateman, 12. Brad Sewell, 13. Simon Taylor, 14. Grant Birchall, 15. Luke Hodge, 16. Beau Dowler, 17. Beau Muston, 18. Brent Guerra, 20. Tim Boyle, 21. Richard Vandenberg, 22. Ben McGlynn, 23. Lance Franklin, 25. Tim Clarke, 26. Zac Dawson, 27. Stephen Gilham, 28. Matthew Little, 30. Campbell Brown, 33. Josh Thurgood, 34. Brent Renouf, 38. Travis Tuck, 39. Robert Campbell, 45. Clinton Young.
What to watch, for picking AFL fantasy players:
How the Hawks structure their forward line is not only important for them but it can have an affect on several fantasy players. Franklin, Dowler and Williams could all be solid fantasy forwards. Campbell is their number 1 ruckman but this game could decide who his backup is, Renouf or Taylor. Thurgood and Dawson could be playing, maybe not important for fantasy teams but if they battle Neitz it could make headlines.
Melbourne squad: 1. Simon Buckley, 2. Nathan Jones, 3. Clint Bizzell, 4. Ben Holland, 6. Matthew Bate, 7. Brad Miller, 8. James Frawley, 9. David Neitz, 10. Daniel Ward, 11. Paul Johnson, 13. Adem Yze, 14. Lynden Dunn, 17. Chris Johnson, 18. Brad Green, Number. Name, 21. Daniel Bell, 23. James McDonald, 24. Russell Robertson, 25. Nathan Brown, 27. Jared Rivers, 30. Simon Godfrey, 32. Cameron Bruce, 33. Byron Pickett, 35. Ryan Ferguson, 37. Matthew Warnock, 38. Daniel Hughes, 40. Mark Jamar, 41. Nathan Carroll, 45. Matthew Whelan.
What to watch, for picking AFL fantasy players:
It could be the return of Bizzell, maybe he gets back into form but the Demons might have better options now. Frawley is more advanced than expected and he might earn a spot in the back half, and that should be enough to make him useful for fantasy AFL. The Demons might want to play another tall forward and this game could showcase Paul Johnson, Dunn, Miller and Warnock.
Fremantle v West Coast
Fremantle squad: 1. Luke Webster, 2. Josh Carr, 4. Paul Hasleby, 5. Ryley Dunn, 6. Dean Solomon, 7. Brett Peake, 8. Shaun McManus, 9. Matt Carr, 11. Des Headland, 14. Antoni Grover, 15. Ryan Crowley, 16. David Mundy, 18. Luke McPharlin, 19. James Walker, 20. Justin Longmuir, 24. Adam Campbell, 25. Steven Dodd, 27. Daniel Gilmore, 28. Ryan Murphy, 29. Matthew Pavlich, 30. Marcus Drum, 31. Aaron Sandilands, 33. Jeff Farmer, 35. Garrick Ibbotson, 36. Andrew Browne, 37. Michael Johnson, 41. Paul Duffield, 43. Roger Hayden.
What to watch, for picking AFL fantasy players:
Solomon as a forward might be good for fantasy statistics, this game will give an idea. Mundy or Johnson as a midfielder could also happen and that will be important for fantasy teams. Webster has good skills but hasn't secured a regular spot, he has the potential to be a big fantasy player.
West Coast squad: 1. Mitch Brown, 2. Mark LeCras, 4. Daniel Kerr, 5. Tyson Stenglein, 7. Chad Fletcher, 8. Beau Waters, 9. Ben Cousins, 10. Michael Braun, 11. Matt Priddis, 14. Mark Seaby, 15. Chad Jones, 17. Daniel Chick, 18. Rowan Jones, 19. Tim Houlihan, 20. Dean Cox, 21. Quinten Lynch, 22. Jaymie Graham, 23. Darren Glass, 24. Matt Rosa, 25. Shannon Hurn, 27. Ben McKinley, 29. Ashley Hansen, 35. Steven Armstrong, 37. Adam Selwood, 38. Brett Jones, 39. Adam Hunter, 41. Brent Staker, 44. David Wirrpanda.
What to watch, for picking AFL fantasy players:
There isn't a lot of changes with the Eagles. Brown is someone to watch and he might become the Eagles' third tall forward. if that happens then sign him to your fantasy team. This game is also another chance for players like Staker and Graham to push for a spot, Staker produces for AFL fantasy when the Eagles play him. Priddis has the potential to become a very good centre player for fantasy points. If selecting a Jones for fantasy AFL from the Eagles, select Rowan then Brett before Chad.
Some interesting football cards from over a decade ago. Mick Martyn, with hair, Wayne Carey, with hair, as well as Austinn Jones and Tony Modra. A subset of players who starred in the preseason Ansett Cup competition. North Melbourne won the Ansett Cup in 1995, the Saints were victorious in 1996.
1995 Select series 2 Ansett Cup stars
Here is something that all fans of the Saints will want, a life-size Nick Riewoldt. A bargain and would be something to take along to the games, why take a flag when you could have a cardboard Riewoldt.
Lifesize Nick Riewoldt St Kilda Standee
Riewoldt might have had the action figure last year but that is nothing compared to this, Mark "Jacko" Jackson's battery operated Oi! Jacko Gym.
'Oi Jacko Gym' Mark Jackson AFL Football battery toy
Western Bulldogs v Sydney
Western Bulldogs squad: 1. Farren Ray, 4. Daniel Cross, 5. Matthew Boyd, 6. Brad Johnson, 7. Scott West, 9. Lindsay Gilbee, 13. Daniel Giansiracusa, 15. Sam Power, 16. Ryan Griffen, 18. Cameron Faulkner, 19. Shaun Higgins, 20. Travis Baird, 21. Jason Akermanis, 22. Dylan Addison, 23. Jordan McMahon, 27. Will Minson, 28. Damien McCormack, 29. Andrejs Everitt, 30. Matthew Robbins, 31. Josh Hill, 32. Andrew McDougall, 34. Wayde Skipper, 36. Brian Harris, 37. Cameron Wight. 39. Malcolm Lynch, 40. Jarrod Harbrow, 41. Marty Pask, 43. Brett Montgomery.
What to watch, for picking AFL fantasy players:
If Everitt is playing he will be a player to watch. If any of their first year players are to become solid fantasy players it will be Everitt, in a role around half back. Akermanis will get all the attention from fans, but for fantasy teams Akermanis is a known commodity while McDougall could be a fantasy steal this season. Watch to see where they play McDougall and how much of the ball is directed to him. Addison is another player who could get a regular spot in the Bulldogs team, and he is an inexpensive fantasy option. Faulkner might be an option to replace Rohan Smith's run from the back, if he performs anywhere near that level then sign him up for AFL fantasy.
Sydney squad: 2. Nick Davis, 3. Jarrad McVeigh, 4. Ben Matthews, 5. Ryan O’Keefe, 6. Craig Bolton, 8. Daniel O’Keefe, 9. Nick Malceski, 18. Jesse White, 22. Matthew Laidlaw, 23. Peter Faulks, 25. Ted Richards, 26. Sean Dempster, 27. Kristin Thornton, 29. Jonathan Simpkin, 31. Brett Kirk, 32. Amon Buchanan, 34. Ryan Brabazon, 35. Daniel Currie, 36. Tim Schmidt, 37. Adam Goodes, 38. Luke Vogels, 40. Nick Smith, 41. Ed Barlow, 42. Paul Bevan, 45. Earl Shaw, 46. Sam Rowe, 47. Simon Phillips, 48. Kieren Jack.
What to watch, for picking AFL fantasy players:
Dempster should be one of the big fantasy steals so watch how he goes in this game, he should have a much bigger role. Richards kicked a bunch of goals against Collingwood a week ago, you would not expect him to be moved to the forward line for the regular season but you never know. Players like Bevan and D O'Keefe could be competing for Schneider's spot, this game could be important for that. Although listed, Goodes may not be playing in this game, and if he does it will be with limited minutes.
Carlton v Essendon
Carlton squad: 1. Andrew Walker, 2. Jordan Russell, 3. Marc Murphy, 4. Bryce Gibbs, 5. Josh Kennedy, 6. Kade Simpson, 7. Adam Bentick, 8. Lance Whitnall, 9. Jason Saddington, 11. Cain Ackland, 12. Matthew Lappin, 14. Brad Fisher, 17. Setanta O’hAilpin, 18. Paul Bower, 19. Eddie Betts, 23. Adam Hartlett, 24. Nick Stevens, 25. Brendan Fevola, 26. Joe Anderson, 28. Cameron Cloke, 29. Heath Scotland, 30. Jarrad Waite, 32. Bret Thornton, 33. Ryan Houlihan, 38. Ryan Jackson, 41. Ross Young, 43. Anthony Koutoufides, 44. Andrew Carrazzo.
What to watch, for picking AFL fantasy players:
Waite in the back line is something fantasy managers have been waiting for, he could be a big fantasy player at centre half back. That move would also help Kennedy, who would be their big target at centre half forward. Both players will be affordable in fantasy leagues, Kennedy could be very cheap. This game is also a chance for Ackland to grab the number 1 ruck spot, if he does play a lot of minutes in the ruck he might find a use for fantasy teams. The biggest thing to watch is Gibbs, he's already made it into Carlton's leadership battalion so sign him up for AFL fantasy.
Essendon squad: 4. Jobe Watson, 5. James Hird, 6. Angus Monfries, 8. Jason Winderlich, 10. Mark McVeigh, 11. Damien Peverill, 12. Andrew Welsh, 13. Andrew Lovett, 14. Jason Johnson, 15. Courtenay Dempsey, 16. Kepler Bradley, 18. Matthew Lloyd, 19. David Hille, 20. Henry Slattery, 21. Courtney Johns, 22. Mal Michael, 23. Mark Bolton, 23. Richard Cole, 24. Brent Stanton, 25. Scott Lucas, 26. Chris Heffernan, 27. Jason Laycock, 29. Alwyn Davey, 30. Patrick Ryder, 31. Dustin Fletcher, 36. Sam Lonergan, 42. Nathan Lovett-Murray, 43. Bachar Houli.
What to watch, for picking AFL fantasy players:
It's supposed to be the unveiling of Essendon's unstoppable forward line. So see if Lloyd, Hird, Johns, Lucas, Lovett and Davey get enough of the ball. Most should be effective fantasy players, with maybe Johns and Davey not getting as much of the ball. But Johns has been in good form so don't count him out, and Davey will be one of the cheaper fantasy forwards to purchase too. Cole has had a good preseason and might be worth a fantasy roster spot if he gets a regular spot in the Essendon back line. Big Laycock is listed to get a run in this game, he might not be a fantasy player now but if Hille is out then Laycock woud be a player to consider signing.
St Kilda v Brisbane
Brisbane squad: 2. Chris Johnson, 4. Ben Fixter, 5. Scott Harding, 6. Luke Power, 7. Jed Adcock, 8. Tim Notting, 9. Ashley McGrath, 10. Matthew Moody, 11. Justin Sherman, 12. James Hawksley, 13. Chris Schmidt, 15. Matthew Tyler, 17. Jared Brennan, 19. Jamie Charman, 20. Simon Black, 21. Daniel Merrett, 24. Joel Patfull, 25. Wayde Mills, 30. Robert Copeland, 31. Cameron Wood, 32. Cheynee Stiller, 35. Michael Rischitelli, 37. Sam Sheldon, 38. Haydn Kiel, 40. Will Hamill, 42. Marcus Allan, 43. Beau McDonald 46. Colm Begley.
What to watch, for picking AFL fantasy players:
Leuenberger misses with a minor injury so Charman and Wood will get ruck minutes, if Wood plays well he could be a good fantasy ruckman. But there is also McDonald in the mix too. Charman may play forward a lot in this game. Schmidt might be a goal-kicker that the Lions go to, with Brown and Bradshaw out. It will also be interesting to see where they play Brennan.
St Kilda squad: 1. Jason Gram, 3. Xavier Clarke, 4. Andrew Thompson, 10. Steven Baker, 11. Leigh Montagna, 17. Aaron Fiora, 18. Brendon Goddard, 20. David Armitage, 21. Matthew Ferguson, 22. Shane Birss, 24. Barry Brooks, 25. Sam Fisher, 27. Jason Blake, 28. Matthew Clarke, 29. Michael Rix, 30. Brad Howard, 32. Andrew McQualter, 33. James Gwilt, 34. Phil Raymond, 36. Jarryd Allen, 37. Justin Sweeney, 38. Clint Jones, 39. Luke van Rheenen, 40. Robert Eddy, 41. James Wall, 42. Jarryn Geary, 43. Jayden Attard, 44. Stephen Milne.
What to watch, for picking AFL fantasy players:
The Saints have lost a few players to injuries but that could help them find some other players who are ready to step up. Armitage should be a regular in their side this season, and also in a lot of fantasy teams, but Birss could use this game to push for a senior spot and youngsters like Allen could also use this game to impress the coach. If Riewoldt, Hamill, Watts and Koschitzke are not ready for round 1 then a tall like Allen could have a big role. Also watch to see if Brooks is able to dominate against Brisbane again. It's been a long time since Matthew Clarke debuted for the Bears, but his debut for the Saints in this game might setup the number 1 ruck spot for him with Gardiner out.
If they have frequent operating room points then Aaron Hamill is rich, as he is back having knee surgery. It looks like he will miss some games but hopefully he returns smaller, according to the Saints he slimmed down a bit, and better.
Official news from the Saints: Knee setback for Hamill
AFL Fantasy Impact:
Hamill was supposed to be the secret weapon for fantasy teams this season, he would have been overlooked by many people and his fantasy price would have been low. A healthy Hamill could have picked up plenty of stats as other teams focused on stopping Riewoldt and Gehrig. With his latest injury problem that plan will be put on hold, at least with Hamill, as there could be another Saint who finds more playing time. The Saints have their two big forwards, a bunch of small guys who can play there, but without Hamill there they don’t have the medium-sized option. Watch to see how Coach Lyon addresses this, it might produce a surprise fantasy player. Fiora is as tall as Hamill, although everything else about them is different, but maybe he plays better as a forward. If Maguire is playing then the Saints have the back line under control, maybe Gram, Goddard or a Fisher go forward. But if that happens they could have lower fantasy stats. The Saints might go with three talls, with Gehrig and Riewoldt being joined by Koschitze, Brooks or Allen. Brooks was a top 10 fantasy player last season by per game averages, although as everyone knows he only played in the one regular season game and that was against a depleted Brisbane team.
The AFL have an exciting-looking updated official site, but not all the news is current. If you want to go back to February 2002 then click on their NAB Cup link. Exciting stories from 5 years ago include:
Roos kick past the Swans
Sun, Feb 24, 02 | Saverio Rocca gave Sydney a lesson in how to kick goals as the Roos kept their hopes of a Wizard Home Loans Cup semi-fin...
Crows survive the heat
Sun, Feb 24, 02 | Adelaide weathered the hot conditions and a fast-finishing St Kilda at Football Park to record its second win of the Wiz...
Blues surge late to keep Wizard hopes alive
Sat, Feb 23, 02 | Two goals late in time-on have given Carlton a hard-fought 12-point win over Geelong in an entertaining Wizard Home Loan...
Gutsy Bulldogs down Bombers
Sat, Feb 23, 02 | The never-say-die spirit of the Western Bulldogs was certainly evident today as the club ended one of the worst weeks of...
Port continues to impress
Sat, Feb 23, 02 | Port Adelaide has maintained its excellent pre-season form with a comfortable 66-point victory over a young Fremantle ou...
Voss inspires Lions back to winners list
Fri, Feb 22, 02 | The Brisbane Lions have survived a scare from Melbourne in the second round of the Wizard Home Loans Cup thanks to some ...
Hall boots five in crushing Sydney win
Sun, Feb 17, 02 | New Sydney spearhead Barry Hall could well turn out to be the recruit of the year if his dominant display for the Swans ...
Not only is Rocca, the elder, still playing but Barry Hall is Sydney’s “recruit of the year”. They will have this fixed soon, you would think, but until then if you want to go back in time here is your chance.
Home>Season 2007
The NAB Cup
Adelaide’s Mark Ricciuto may not play in any of the NAB Cup games, if Adelaide do progress to the finals, and his preparation for round 1 of the regular season will be very limited.
Story from The Advertiser: Craig waits on Roo
AFL Fantasy Impact:
You don’t want to risk fantasy players who may not be ready, but as the story points out Ricciuto kicked 6 goals last season under similar circumstances. So there is a precedent to show that making an exception for Ricciuto might be a good idea. It would probably depend on Ricciuto’s fantasy price, the other forwards that Adelaide play and Ricciuto’s form in any practice matches that he gets before the season as to whether playing him in round 1 is the right thing to do. Without a solid preseason it is likely that Ricciuto is a permanent forward, with very little or no time in the middle of the ground. His days of being a fantasy superstar are probably over but he should still have plenty of value and could be a 50-goal forward.
They have Pavlich at one end of the ground who gets all the attention, and he deserves it, but the Dockers also have an excitement machine in their defensive half. Luke McPharlin has permission to take-off, and this video shows a memorable leap.
McPharlin Mark of the Year 2005. From the Youtube site.
Port Adelaide v Adelaide
Port Adelaide squad: 2. Darryl Wakelin, 3. Steven Salopek, 4. Daniel Motlop, 5. Brendon Lade, 6. Adam Thomson, 7. Peter Burgoyne, 8. Shaun Burgoyne, 10. Travis Boak, 11. Ryan Willits, 12. Nathan Lonie, 15. David Rodan, 16. Danyle Pearce, 18. Kane Cornes, 20. Dean Brogan, 21. Michael Wilson, 22. Josh Mahoney, 23. Brad Symes, 24. Damon White, 25. Domenic Cassisi, 26. Nick Lower, 29. Nathan Krakouer, 30. Troy Chaplin, 33. Brett Ebert, 35. Chad Cornes, 36. Michael Pettigrew, 39. Justin Westhoff, 41. Greg Bentley, 44. Tom Logan
What to watch, for picking AFL fantasy players:
Tredrea may not be there for round 1 so a couple of the Power forwards might have increased stats in the early regular season games. Watch to see how they use Ebert, Mahoney, Rodan and even Krakouer. Willits, Pettigrew and White could be the marking options up forward with no Tredrea. First-year players provide cheap fantasy players so watch Boak in his first big game, he could be a good fantasy centreman for your bench.
Adelaide squad: 2. John Meesen, 5. Scott Thompson, 6. Jonathan Griffin, 7. Nathan Van Berlo, 8. Nathan Bassett, 9. Tyson Edwards, 10. Matthew Bode, 11. Michael Doughty, 12. Robert Shirley, 13. Ben Hudson, 14. David Mackay, 15. Jason Torney, 16. Ken McGregor, 17. Scott Welsh, 19. Darren Pfeiffer, 21. Chris Knights, 23. Andrew McLeod, 25. Ben Rutten, 26. Richard Douglas, 27. Scott Stevens, 28. Bernie Vince, 33. Brent Reilly, 36. Simon Goodwin, 39. Martin Mattner, 40. Jason Porplyzia, 42. Rhys Archard, 43. Andrew McIntyre, 44. Nathan Bock
What to watch, for picking AFL fantasy players:
The big thing is the key forward positions. Welsh and Bock probably are the players in this game who get a chance to grab a forward position. Bock and Welsh are both solid fantasy players, but would be even more effective without Perrie and others playing. McGregor is another to watch, and he could also be tried in the ruck. Meesen also gets a chance to secure a senior spot. The Crows might also reveal where McLeod will be played, he may not have as many fantasy points if played as a forward.
Kangaroos v Collingwood
Kangaroos squad: 1. Hamish McIntosh, 2. Jonathan Hay, 3. Brady Rawlings, 4. Daniel Harris, 6. Shannon Grant, 7. Adam Simpson, 8. Daniel Wells, 9. Jess Sinclair, 12. Lindsay Thomas, 13. David Trotter, 16. Leigh Brown, 18. Brad Moran, 19. Andrew Swallow, 20. Drew Petrie, 21. Corey Jones, 23. Nathan Thompson, 24. Michael Firrito, 26. Lachlan Hansen, 27. Aaron Edwards, 28. Matt Riggio, 29. Brent Harvey, 30. Daniel Pratt, 31. David Hale, 32. Eddie Sansbury, 36. Shannon Watt, 38. Josh Gibson, 43. Matt Campbell, 44. Djaran Whyman
What to watch, for picking AFL fantasy players:
Not just for fantasy football, but also for entertainment you should be watching Hansen. You will want Hansen on your fantasy team no matter where the Kangaroos play him. He's probably a defender for them, and will get even more stats there. With McIntosh and Moran named in the team, you can bet that Hale will be played forward. There should be enough space up forward for Hale, Thompson and Edwards. Especially keep an eye on Edwards, he could be a very cheap fantasy player and he can kick plenty of goals. Leigh Brown is another player who might have a big fantasy year, he could have a midfield role with Petrie, Watt and Hansen in their back line. Watt might have competition for the full back spot with Hay named in the team. Lindsay Thomas will be an option for fantasy teams, he could be a low-priced forward or centre.
Collingwood squad: 1. Leon Davis, 2. Sean Rusling, 3. Ryan Lonie, 7. Paul Medhurst, 10. Scott Pendlebury, 13. Dale Thomas, 14. Shane Wakelin, 15. Chris Egan, 16. Nathan Brown, 17. Scott Burns, 19. Ben Davies, 20. Ben Reid, 21. Guy Richards, 22. Rhyce Shaw, 26. Ben Johnson. 27. Nick Maxwell, 28. Danny Stanley, 29. Ryan Cook, 30. Harry O’Brien, 32. Travis Cloke, 33. Brad Dick, 34. Alan Toovey, 37. Sam Iles, 39. Heath Shaw, 40. Chris Bryan, 41. Sharrod Wellingham, 43. Martin Clarke, 44. Daniel Nicholls
What to watch, for picking AFL fantasy players:
Bryan and Richards will have a good hitout in this game and they will be competing for the role as Fraser's backup for the regular season, or the number 1 ruck spot if Fraser misses games. There is also competition for forward spots with Thomas, Pendlebury, Rusling, Medhurst, Egan and others in the mix to replace Tarrant, and also Didak as he is still out. Thomas, Pendlebury and Rusling might be the best options for AFL fantasy teams. First round picks Reid and Brown will also be on show, they both have great potential and this game will show how far off they are from a regular spot. Martin Clarke might get a chance to play AFL in season 2007, if a long-term injury opens up a spot, so watch this game to get an idea of how good the Irish import is going to be.
It could have been a serious setback to the Demons’ chances this season but as Jeff White’s sight is alright Melbourne will have close to a full list to choose from for their NAB Cup game. White was hit by an elbow during Melbourne’s intra-club game yesterday.
News from Melbourne: White OK for NAB Cup
Plenty of other news from the Melbourne game, with James Frawley playing well and in contention for selection for the NAB Cup. Ricky Petterd, the Demons’ second round pick, had a minor leg injury during the game and may not be ready for Melbourne’s game against Hawthorn. Paul Johnson also gets a mention, he has been so forgotten about that some media outlets didn’t even include him on the Melbourne list. But Johnson could be a big forward option as long as he stays healthy.
Important Outs:
D Banfield, M Gardiner, A McDougall, P Matera, T Gaspar
Important Ins:
M Brown, E MacKenzie
Injury News:
M Nicoski (shoulder, expected to miss several games)
Fantasy Stars:
Judd is one of the best players in all AFL fantasy competitions. Cox is close behind Judd, and as the big guy is a ruckman he provides great value in a position that doesn't have a lot of stars. Cousins, Kerr, Stenglein and Embley are other options for a fantasy centre player. Wirrpanda has a great role for fantasy points, and he collects plenty of points as he patrols the back line. Lynch is a solid option for a fantasy forward too.
Possible Fantasy Stars:
Butler was very good last season and that should continue.
Braun is a consistent player for stats.
Fletcher isn't as good as he once was but will probably do enough this season.
Selwood improved his stats last season and will again be better than average.
Rowan Jones is a solid player for stats.
Hunter can be played forward or back on fantasy teams, just like the Eagles do.
Glass is a useful fantasy player for a full back.
Possible Fantasy Sleeper:
Matthew Priddis. He was put on the Eagles' senior list after being a rookie last season. With Banfield retired, and an injury or two among the Eagles' smaller players, Priddis could be played often.
First Year Players For AFL Fantasy:
Brown might get some playing time up forward if Hansen is out, MacKenzie is another tall option for them but the Eagles have more depth in the tall backs so MacKenzie might not play a lot in 2007. Their other draft picks are further down the depth chart for tall positions.
It might be on Channel 7 tonight, a story about Cometti and McAvaney commentating during the Melbourne Demons intra-club match at Telstra Dome. Peter Mitchell was on Melbourne radio talking about it, with Cometti and McAvany being joined by Watson, Schwarz and Olarenshaw.
There is also injury news from this game, as Jeff White hurt his eye during the game.
From Yahoo Sports: White injures eye in Demons' match
The best player in the preseason grand final is given the Michael Tuck Medal. One year the medal was presented by the former Hawthorn star but he called the medal something else. Leave your answer in the comments section for this question, what did Michael Tuck mistakenly call the Michael Tuck Medal?
The Eagles have been winning but it hasn’t been due to a dominating forward line. Maybe the Eagles have found a third tall to team with Lynch and Hansen as first round pick Mitch Brown could be picked for their NAB Cup game. The supply to the forward line for that game won’t be what is usually is as Judd and Kerr will be missing.
Story from The Age: Hamstring to sideline in-form Kerr
AFL Fantasy Impact:
Mitch Brown wasn’t expected to have a big role this season but if he can give the Eagles another marking target up forward he could become a regular player. Possibly sign him for a bench spot, but if Hansen or Lynch are hurt then Brown could be very useful in AFL fantasy teams.
Important Outs:
P Williams, D Spriggs
Important Ins:
P Everitt, D O'Keefe, D Currie, P Faulks, J White
Injury News:
A Schneider (hamstring, may miss round 1), L Roberts-Thomson (foot, could miss first 4 rounds)
Fantasy Stars:
Goodes leads his team, and sometimes the entire AFL, in fantasy stats. Sign up Goodes and also consider Hall, Kirk and J Bolton. They are all top 50 players. Buchanan, O'Loughlin, C Bolton and Leo Barry are also AFL fantasy stars.
Possible Fantasy Stars:
When healthy, Schneider gets a lot of the ball, but don't sign him until his injury is gone.
Kennelly is a consistent player with statistics.
Davis was not a good signing last season but he might be a cheaper player to sign this time.
Everitt will get hitouts, marks and some goals and is a solid option for a fantasy ruckman.
Jolly had a lot of hitouts last season, but in some leagues that doesn't bring in a lot of points.
Fosdike and Ablett are important to the Swans but they don't dominate in possessions, so they are just average fantasy players, but if their price isn’t high they could be useful.
Possible Fantasy Sleeper:
Sean Dempster. He hasn't done a lot in his career but that's because the Swans have had a settled lineup and Dempster was often on the bench. This season should be different and as the Swans have had several injuries already it should open up a regular position for Dempster.
First Year Players For AFL Fantasy:
D O'Keefe should be a chance for some action in 2007, he might be someone the Swans play to replace Schneider if he misses games. White and Currie could play if the Swans are missing a couple of talls.
The Tigers have announced their top 15 players from preseason training who will be selected in their NAB Cup match against Geelong.
1. Deledio
2. Foley
3. Howat
4. Tambling
5. Krakouer
6. Pettifer
7. Tivendale
8. J. Bowden
9. Tuck
10. Brown
11. Raines
12. P. Bowden
13. Moore
14. White
15. Newman
Deledio takes out the Challenge
Looking back at Richmond's top 25 from a week ago, the following players would have just missed out on an automatic spot:
Kane Johnson, Graham Polak, Daniel Jackson, Angus Graham, Dean Polo, Matthew Richardson, Brent Hartigan, Adam Pattison, Luke McGuane and Danny Meyer.
The AFL could fine and/or suspend four players for violating AFL rules concerning gambling. Simon Goodwin, Daniel Ward, David Hale and Keiren Jack are the players the AFL is investigating.
Statement from the AFL: Players named in betting probe
Story from The Age: Four players named in AFL gambling probe
AFL Fantasy Impact:
It's nearly time to choose AFL fantasy sides and Goodwin, Hale and Ward would have been in a lot of teams. But if they are suspended that will change fantasy points for several of their teammates. If Goodwin is out then the Crows have to find someone to replace his many kicks in the middle of the ground. More stats for Thompson, Reilly and Doughty would be expected. For a bargain in fantasy leagues a player like Porplyzia or Douglas might be an option. Hale was supposed to be the Kangaroos' new centre half forward this season, in the unlikely event he is suspended a couple of Kangaroo forwards could see more of the ball. Edwards is a player to watch and Ben Ross is an option too, and there is a also a chance that Hansen could be played forward. Ward consistently gets the ball for Melbourne but the Demons have plenty of options to replace him if that becomes necessary. For fantasy leagues that could mean more time and statistics for Sylvia, Bartram and Brown or the Demons might look to Petterd or Frawley. If Daniher does give one of his draft picks a game, sign them up for fantasy leagues.
Here are the games that Foxtel have circled in their advertisements as live AFL games on Pay TV. The listings are for games on Fox Sports that will be live in Victoria.
Round 1
Saturday, 31st March
Fremantle vs. Port Adelaide
Brisbane vs. Hawthorn
Sunday, 1st April
Adelaide vs. Essendon
Carlton vs. Richmond
Round 2
Saturday, 7th April
Richmond vs. Sydney
Geelong vs. Carlton
Sunday, 8th April
Port Adelaide vs. Kangaroos
Western Bulldogs vs. Adelaide
Round 3
Saturday, 14th April
Port Adelaide vs. Adelaide
Fremantle vs. West Coast
Sunday, 15th April
Sydney vs. Brisbane
Kangaroos vs. Hawthorn
Round 4
Saturday, 21st April
St. Kilda vs. Essendon
Kangaroos vs. Brisbane
Sunday, 22nd April
Hawthorn vs. Geelong
West Coast vs. Carlton
Round 5
Saturday, 28th April
Richmond vs. West Coast
Carlton vs. Brisbane
Sunday, 29th April
Hawthorn vs. Western Bulldogs
Fremantle vs. Adelaide
Round 6
Saturday, 5th May
West Coast vs. Western Bulldogs
Kangaroos vs. Sydney
Sunday, 6th May
Brisbane vs. Fremantle
Richmond vs. Geelong
Round 7
Saturday, 12th May
Collingwood vs. Carlton
Brisbane vs. Adelaide
Sunday, 13th May
Geelong vs. West Coast
Fremantle vs. Hawthorn
Round 8
Saturday,19th May
Geelong vs. Fremantle
Kangaroos vs. Carlton
Sunday, 20th May
Sydney vs. Port Adelaide
West Coast vs. Melbourne
Round 9
Saturday, 26th May
Carlton vs. Adelaide
Brisbane vs. Collingwood
Sunday, 27th May
Western Bulldogs vs. Sydney
Port Adelaide vs. Geelong
Round 10
Saturday, 2nd June
West Coast vs. Kangaroos
Richmond vs. Brisbane
Sunday, 3rd June
Port Adelaide vs. Hawthorn
St. Kilda vs. Geelong
Round 11
Saturday, 9th June
Hawthorn vs. Sydney
Carlton vs. Port Adelaide
Sunday, 10th June
Adelaide vs. Geelong
Fremantle vs. Richmond
Round 12
Saturday, 16th June
Western Bulldogs vs. Fremantle
Sunday, 17th June
Geelong vs. Brisbane
Port Adelaide vs. Essendon
Sunday, 24th June
West Coast vs. St. Kilda
Round 13
Saturday, 30th June
Fremantle vs. Carlton
Brisbane vs. Port Adelaide
Sunday, 1st July
Adelaide vs. West Coast
Collingwood vs. Hawthorn
Round 14
Saturday, 7th July
Western Bulldogs vs. Port Adelaide
West Coast vs. Brisbane
Sunday, 8th July
Sydney vs. Fremantle
Richmond vs. Kangaroos
Round 15
Saturday, 14th July
Port Adelaide vs. West Coast
Melbourne vs. Brisbane
Sunday, 15th July
Sydney vs. Carlton
Fremantle vs. Kangaroos
Round 16
Saturday, 21st July
Adelaide vs. Fremantle
St. Kilda vs. Hawthorn
Sunday, 22nd July
Brisbane vs. Carlton
Kangaroos vs. Melbourne
Round 17
Saturday, 28th July
Fremantle vs. Geelong
Sydney vs. Richmond
Sunday, 29th July
Hawthorn vs. Kangaroos
Port Adelaide vs. Melbourne
Round 18
Saturday, 4th August
Geelong vs. Richmond
Brisbane vs. Kangaroos
Sunday, 5th August
Melbourne vs. Sydney
West Coast vs. Fremantle
Round 19
Saturday, 11th August
Hawthorn vs. Brisbane
Sydney vs. St. Kilda
Sunday, 12th August
Kangaroos vs. West Coast
Fremantle vs. Essendon
Round 20
Saturday, 18th August
Essendon vs. Carlton
Brisbane vs. Sydney
Sunday, 19th August
Hawthorn vs. Port Adelaide
Adelaide vs. Western Bulldogs
Round 21
Saturday, 25th August
Fremantle vs. Melbourne
Adelaide vs. Brisbane
Sunday, 26th August
Western Bulldogs vs. Hawthorn
Essendon vs. Richmond
Round 22
Saturday, 1st September
West Coast vs. Essendon
Port Adelaide vs. Fremantle
Sunday, 2nd September
Sydney vs. Hawthorn
Melbourne vs. Carlton
Sydney forward Adam Schneider was injured in the Sydney - Collingwood practice match. The seriousness of the injury should be known later today or tomorrow, but it is likely that he misses the NAB Cup. Schneider joins backman LRT on the Swans' injury list.
News from the Swans: Mixed bag for Swans
AFL Fantasy Impact:
The Swans do have depth for small forwards/midfielders and if they need to replace Schneider for round 1 it could mean another player becomes useful for fantasy. Paul Bevan might be the player they choose, he disappeared a bit last season so he will have an average price for fantasy leagues. The Swans used their first round pick in the draft to take Daniel O'Keefe, he would also be suited to filling Schneider's role. Watch their NAB Cup game to see if the Swans think D O'Keefe is ready.
It is a surprise that Cameron Howat is not already on the Richmond senior list but his elevation off the rookie list should happen soon. If his coach says he is "impressive" that is a good sign. Howat has also been in the top 5 for the Tigers' preseason NAB Challenge.
Click here to read about Richmond's preseason training and intra-club match:Wallace sees 'nice signs'
AFL Fantasy Impact:
Howat played very well last season when the Tigers played him towards the end of the year, he was a useful addition to fantasy teams then. Now Howat could be a regular starter for AFL fantasy teams, and he should be affordable compared to many other centres.
He has a leg injury but he should be there in round 1. He joins a big list of players there who are a bit injured now but should be ready for round 1. Other Saints that have a minor injury include Riewoldt and Hudghton while other players like Hamill, Maguire and Hayes are coming back from long-term injuries.
Read the story from the Saints' site: Quad sidelines Kosi
AFL Fantasy Impact:
Koschitzke is a big fantasy player, when healthy. This injury will obviously hurt his preparation for the regular season so playing him for round 1 might not be the best strategy. Gardiner is doubtful for round 1 too, so maybe M Clarke is an option for just the first game or two, especially in leagues that give fantasy points for hitouts.
Here is a preview of a possible team for the AFL Fantasy Dream Team competition. The positions are from last season's competition, or an estimate for the new players. The team was put together using approximate prices for the players.
Jonathan Brown: He could be the leading goal-kicker in the AFL this season, and that would make him one of the best AFL fantasy players. Don't look at the totals for stats with Brown, as he missed half of 2006, the averages tell how dominant he can be.
Barry Hall: Hall doesn't just kick goals, for fantasy play he gets the mark, then a kick and then usually a goal. That adds up, and even if he kicks a point in Dream Team he gets points for that.
Lance Franklin: Sometimes his fantasy price doesn't equal his potential and with the Dream Team game he can be a bargain. He increased his goals per game average last season and would be expected to increase it again in 2007.
Matthew Pavlich: Will be worth it whatever the price in fantasy AFL.
Gary Ablett: The goals and marks of key position forwards can bring in big fantasy points in Dream Team, but small forwards are also very useful, especially ones that will often be played in the middle too.
Paul Chapman: Just like his teammate Ablett, but a few more possessions and a bit less hair.
Sean Rusling: The Magpies have a few skilful forwards, the big target in Rocca but their main leading option will be Rusling. Rusling will not be very expensive to start the season but should see a good increase in value if he kicks a few goals early in the season.
Courtney Johns: Might not have enough money left in the game's salary-cap to have an experienced forward on the bench but Johns didn't have a big price last season.
Beau Dowler: Can be played as a forward or back, won't cost a lot and he might have a big year.
B C Kornes
B A McPhee
B A McLeod
B S Fisher
B S Dempster
B N Maxwell
B G Polak
B X Ellis
B L Hansen
C S Mitchell
C D Harris
C B McLean
C R Tambling
C T Hislip
C B Gibbs
R R Campbell
R D Cox
R J White
R A Sandilands
R J Meesen
R M Clark
F J Brown
F B Hall
F L Franklin
F M Pavlich
F G Ablett
F P Chapman
F S Rusling
F C Johns
F B Dowler
Important Outs:
J Peckett, S Powell, C Ackland, T Schwarze, M McGough
Important Ins:
M Gardiner, M Clarke, D Armitage, S Birss, J Allen
Injury News:
N Riewoldt (hamstring, should be ready for regular season), M Gardiner (groin, may miss some early games)
Fantasy Stars:
If Riewoldt and Hayes are healthy then they are the best the Saints have for AFL fantasy points. Goddard and Dal Santo are among the leaders for fantasy points too, and other players like S Fisher, Gram, Ball and even Robert Harvey can star too. Harvey might not be the huge star he was when The Age had the fantasy game a decade ago when you had to cut out the coupon and mail it in, but he hasn't dropped that far off. Fraser Gehrig is a player that can help win a fantasy round when he has a big game, and his fantasy points average out to a good number too. The important thing with the Saints is their new coach, he will change things and some previous fantasy stars could have smaller roles now and other players could see a big jump in stats.
Possible Fantasy Stars:
Koschitzke is a player to watch for his price, if he is again one of the most expensive then stay away, but if his price has moved down a bit then sign him. Just check the injury news to make sure he is playing.
The other Fisher, Leigh, is a solid fantasy player but doesn't get huge numbers like others in the back line there.
Montagna has had consistent numbers for AFL fantasy but he might be a player that Lyon doesn't play as much.
Maguire has recovered well from his injury and his stats are solid for a tall defender.
Voss is always out there and he gets consistent stats every game.
Possible Fantasy Sleeper:
Aaron Hamill. He has not been healthy for a long time, so if his fantasy price is low and he plays a lot this season then he could be a steal for AFL fantasy. Gets possessions, is useful for contested marks and can also kick goals.
First Year Players For AFL Fantasy:
Armitage should be the only first-year Saint who does anything big in the stats. Sign him up if the Saints name him in their team. Howard might not be able to get any minutes this season while Allen is a good prospect but there isn't an available position for him in their team right now.
Possibly one or two Collingwood fans will not qualify to bid on this auction as "the winner of the auction and their playing partner must have current Golf Australia Handicaps". That rules out some people who would have bid on the auction to play a round of golf with Buckley and Caracella. "The winner of the auction and their playing partner agree to adhere to the etiquette and dress regulations of the Metropolitan Golf Club Inc". You not only get to see Buckley but he will also give you a signed Collingwood jumper, but then you are banned from wearing it, that takes the fun out of it.
Play Golf with Nathan Buckley & Blake Caracella!
There are a bunch of prizes involved in this auction, including a lunch and also a lesson from Funch. All proceeds will go to a professional golfer, that's what it says.
If a round of golf isn't expensive enough then purchase the original hand-painted Collingwood life membership certificate.
Collingwood Certificate
Nothing to do with football, yet the following auction has a starting price of $2,899.00 and is listed in the merchandise area for Carlton collectables. "Also listed in: Sports Memorabilia > AFL / VFL > Carlton Blues > Merchandise". If you can figure out why then leave a comment. Is a player selling an old car to pay a fine, is the licence plate considered by illiterates to be a Carlton full forward's nickname, did the car get a parking ticket outside MC Hammer Labour Optus Princes Park one day?
1993 Holden GS Apollo Sedan
The Bulldogs of today, and the Footscray Bulldogs players who were there in 1992.
A look at players who were in some small way similar to what the club has now, these are not direct player comparisons as there were plenty of players who were unique, one-of-kind stars. A fun test to see how many players were memorable from the past team, and how many have been forgotten about.
Western Bulldogs 2007 and 1992:
Dylan Addison - Nigel Kellett
Versatile player.
Jason Akermanis - Doug Hawkins
Starring on a wing.
Travis Baird - Danny Del-Re
Forward option.
Matthew Boyd - Tony Liberatore
Has a defensive part to their game.
Adam Cooney - Terry Wallace
Big midfielder.
Daniel Cross - Simon Atkins
Handballs.
Luke Darcy - Barry Standfield
Versatile tall.
Nathan Eagleton - Steven Kolyniuk
Short, little goal scorer.
Andrejs Everitt - Steven Kretiuk
Thin, athletic defender.
Cameron Faulkner - Shannon Corcoran
Often overlooked for selection.
Daniel Giansiracusa - Darren Baxter
Important runner.
Lindsay Gilbee - Leon Cameron
Designated kicker.
Chris Grant - Chris Grant
Grant had already played more than 50 career games by 1992.
Ryan Griffen - Shane Ellen
Important player in big games.
Mitchell Hahn - Mark Hunter
Same initials, same position.
Ryan Hargrave - Matthew Croft
Defender who takes on the big tasks.
Brian Harris - Tony Campbell
Full back.
Shaun Higgins - Gary Barrow
Backup midfielder.
Josh Hill - Troy Moloney
Small position prospect.
Brad Johnson - Brian Royal
Small forward with a lot of goals.
Malcolm Lynch - Darren Stanley
Very short player.
Damian McCormack - Tyson Lane
Small forward.
Andrew McDougall - Justin Charles
Big guy who didn't reach his potential.
Jordan McMahon - Matthew Mansfield
A bit thin but plays hard.
Will Minson - Ilija Grgic
Big guy.
Brett Montgomery - Steven Wallis
Veteran backman.
Dale Morris - Keenan Reynolds
Third tall defender option.
Robert Murphy - Bernard Toohey
A bit short but can still play a key position.
Paul O'Shea - Ben Sexton
Project big.
Sam Power - Michael Frost
Secondary midfielder.
Farren Ray - Rohan Smith
Midfielder/half back who gets a lot of the ball.
Matthew Robbins - Stephen MacPherson
Another quality small forward.
Wayde Skipper - Glenn Coleman
A big body to put in some different spots on the field.
Brennan Stack - Jamie Grant
Small forward/midfielder.
Peter Street - Scott Wynd
Tall ruckman.
Stephen Tiller - Greg Eppelstun
Depth on the list.
Tim Walsh - Adrian Campbell
Backup big forward.
Scott West - Scott West
West played his first game in 1993.
Cameron Wight - Peter Foster
Underrated tall defender.
Tom Williams - Jon Ballantyne
Forgotten bigman.
Here is a preview of a possible team for the AFL Fantasy Dream Team competition. The positions are from last season's competition, or an estimate for the new players. The team was put together using approximate prices for the players.
Robert Campbell: No Everitt or Bailey to compete with Campbell for playing time in 2007 so Campbell should have a good year for statistics.
Dean Cox: He gets hitouts, marks and possessions and plays a lot of minutes so he will continue to be one of the best fantasy ruckmen.
Jeff White: He also plays a lot of minutes, has plenty of marks and kicks for a ruckman and can also kick an occasional goal. He is one of the best fantasy ruckmen.
Aaron Sandilands: None of the four ruckmen here have a backup player pushing them for playing time. Like the three players above, Sandilands will play a lot, and for Dream Team hitouts can be a useful statistic.
John Meesen: A cheap option for a bench ruck spot, but a chance to play a few games. The NAB Cup game, and also Adelaide's game against Norwood, will give an idea of whether the Crows go with Meesen or Maric as the backup to Hudson.
Mitchell Clark: Was a ruckman, and a forward, last season for eligible positions. Probably still can be put in a ruck position although with Brisbane if he plays it will be in a key position. Maybe he gets a shot at centre half forward, or they could move him to the back line.
B C Kornes
B A McPhee
B A McLeod
B S Fisher
B S Dempster
B N Maxwell
B G Polak
B X Ellis
B L Hansen
C S Mitchell
C D Harris
C B McLean
C R Tambling
C T Hislip
C B Gibbs
R R Campbell
R D Cox
R J White
R A Sandilands
R J Meesen
R M Clark
He might not be on television this season, but you will probably be able to hear him on the radio. In this game a lot of people would have been able to hear him as he let the umpire know he had a slight disagreement with his officiating. Click on the link to watch Brian Taylor in action with the video from the Youtube site.
BT loses the plot
Make sure you watch the end of the video, as you will see how Brian Taylor explains to several Essendon players that he is not pleased with the umpiring.
The Eagles of today, and the players who were there in 1992.
A look at players who were in some small way similar to what the club has now, these are not direct player comparisons as there were plenty of players who were unique, one-of-kind stars. A fun test to see how many players were memorable from the past team, and how many have been forgotten about.
West Coast 2007 and 1992:
Steven Armstrong - Brett Heady
Small forward who can score the important goals.
Michael Braun - Don Pyke
Underrated onballer.
Mitchell Brown - Matt Clape
Aerial skills.
Sam Butler - Karl Langdon
Toughness.
Daniel Chick - Dean Laidley
Tough mid-sized defender.
Ben Cousins - Craig Turley
Likes surfing and football.
Dean Cox - Jason Ball
The big guy.
Andrew Embley - Daniel Metropolis
Versatile player for either end of the ground.
Chad Fletcher - Scott Watters
Secondary option in the middle.
Darren Glass - Ashley McIntosh
Dominating full back.
Jaymie Graham - Mitchell White
Plays in most games, but not the AFL Grand Final.
Ashley Hansen - David Hynes
Important tall who helps them win the big games.
Tim Houlihan - Brendan Krummel
Backup medium/big.
Adam Hunter - Chris Waterman
Can make an impact in several positions on the field.
Shannon Hurn - Troy Ugle
Backup midfielder.
Brett Jones - Michael Brennan
Solid, fundamental play.
Rowan Jones - David Hart
Honest effort and quiet leadership.
Chris Judd - Peter Matera
Acceleration.
Daniel Kerr - Chris Lewis
Provides extra bite to the Eagles midfield.
Mark LeCras - Paul Peos
Backup forward.
Quinten Lynch - Peter Sumich
Goals.
Eric MacKenzie - Glen Jakovich
Big defender.
Ben McKinley - Trent Nichols
Backup forward.
Mitch Morton - Andrew Lockyer
Utility player.
Mark Nicoski - Chris Mainwaring
Pace and foot skills.
Matthew Priddis - Adrian Barich
Ball-winning ability.
Matthew Rosa - Phil Scott
190cm utility player.
Ashley Sampi - Tony Evans
Productive small forward.
Will Schofield - Mark Hepburn
Reserve tall.
Mark Seaby - Dean Irving
Big backup ruckman.
Adam Selwood - John Worsfold
Plays with anger.
Matthew Spangher - Ryan Turnbull
Backup tall.
Brent Staker - Derek Hall
Athletic player with good marking ability.
Tyson Stenglein - Dwayne Lamb
Overlooked, but important, member of the team.
James Thomson - Paul Harding
Tall player.
Beau Waters - Peter Wilson
Enforcer-type.
David Wirrpanda - Guy McKenna
Turns defending into attacking.
Josh Wooden - Dean Kemp
Small player.
Here is a preview of a possible team for the AFL Fantasy Dream Team competition. The positions are from last season's competition, or an estimate for the new players. The team was put together using approximate prices for the players.
Sam Mitchell: Among the league leaders in kicks and handballs. He gets the big totals for stats and that is what the Dream Team game is about.
Daniel Harris: Tackles and handballs can add up to a lot of fantasy points in this competition and Harris gets them consistently.
Brock McLean: You could also take McDonald from Melbourne, but McLean could be cheaper and while McDonald might not repeat his huge numbers from last season there is every chance that McLean will be even better in 2007 compared to his very good season in 2006.
Richard Tambling: News of the Coughlan injury affected the possible playing time of numerous Richmond players, Tambling was already being given a bigger role and now his time in the middle could increase quite a lot.
Tom Hislop: Hislop might be eligible at more than one position, but even if he can only be played in the centre he has enough potential to be one of the bench players on your fantasy team to start the year.
Bryce Gibbs: You play four of your six centres in Dream Team so Gibbs could be a starter, or an emergency. If you do start Gibbs then you can save money, as you will be getting star stats from a low-priced player, which will allow you to buy another high-priced player for your team.
B C Kornes
B A McPhee
B A McLeod
B S Fisher
B S Dempster
B N Maxwell
B G Polak
B X Ellis
B L Hansen
C S Mitchell
C D Harris
C B McLean
C R Tambling
C T Hislop
C B Gibbs
The Swans of today, and the players who were there in 1992.
A look at players who were in some small way similar to what the club has now, these are not direct player comparisons as there were plenty of players who were unique, one-of-kind stars. A fun test to see how many players were memorable from the past team, and how many have been forgotten about.
Sydney 2007 and 1992:
Luke Ablett - Daryn Cresswell
Connections with Geelong.
Leo Barry - Andrew Dunkley
Jumping, spoiling full back.
Paul Bevan - Andrew McGovern
Short midfielder.
Craig Bolton - David Strooper
Versatile defender.
Jude Bolton - Dennis Carroll
Important midfielder.
Ryan Brabazon - Paul Atkins
Reserve midfielder.
Amon Buchanan - Stephen Wright
Underrated small.
Jared Crouch - Neil Brunton
Hard-working midfielder.
Daniel Currie - Gavin Rose
Ruck project.
Nick Davis - Jason Love
Skilful small forward.
Sean Dempster - Troy Gray
Versatile mid-sized player.
Stephen Doyle - Gareth John
Backup ruckman.
Peter Everitt - Warren McKenzie
Traded to Sydney for a draft pick.
Peter Faulks - Stuart Wigney
Key position player.
Nic Fosdike - Barry Mitchell
Midfield worker.
Adam Goodes - Troy Luff
Goodesy and Luffy, versatile talls.
Heath Grundy - Darren Holmes
Backup defender.
Barry Hall - Jason Mooney
Big, tough forward.
Darren Jolly - Greg Stafford
Tall ruckman.
Tadhg Kennelly - Mark Bayes
Dash from the back and a long kick.
Brett Kirk - Paul Kelly
Midfield toughness and determination.
Matthew Laidlaw - Justin Clarkson
Backup midfielder.
Nick Malceski - David Murphy
Versatile player.
Ben Mathews - Robert Kerr
Solid defender.
Jarrad McVeigh - Ben Doolan
One lost a Grand Final, the other lost his teeth.
Jarred Moore - Gary Stevens
Short midfielder.
Daniel O'Keefe - Robert Neill
Useful player who can play in different positions.
Ryan O'Keefe - Leon Higgins
Smaller goal-kicker.
Michael O'Loughlin - Dale Lewis
Smaller in height but effective in a key forward position.
Simon Phillips - Jamie Lawson
Real little guy that the crowd cheers for.
Ted Richards - Neil Cordy
Back line player.
Lewis Roberts-Thomson - Simon Minton-Connell
The Hyphen Nation.
Tim Schmidt - Sanford Wheeler
Running midfielder.
Adam Schneider - Darren Kappler
Runs then kicks the ball long.
Jonathan Simpkin - Alan Thorpe
Small forward option.
Kristin Thornton - Terry Thripp
Midfielder/forward.
Luke Vogels - Craig Nettelbeck
Key position depth.
Jesse White - Brad Tunbridge
Big-bodied ruck option.
Important Outs:
M Chaffey, G Stafford, D Rodan, A Kellaway
Important Ins:
G Polak, J Riewoldt, K Kingsley, D Connors, S Edwards
Injury News:
M Coughlan (knee, out for 2007), T Simmonds (ankle, could miss early rounds)
Fantasy Stars:
One Bowden was expected to be a star last season but both Joel and Patrick were among the top AFL fantasy players. Both will come with a huge price-tag this season. Deledio was a great fantasy player last season and that will continue, both he and Tuck lead their midfield. Richardson is still one of the best forwards for fantasy statistics. Simmonds plays forward and in the ruck, and is usually eligible for either spot in fantasy competitions, but watch his injury status before signing. Pettifer is another Richmond forward to sign for fantasy football. Tivendale and Raines should also have good stats in 2007.
Possible Fantasy Stars:
Andrew Kellaway produced useful stats last season and his numbers could be replaced by Polak.
Kane Johnson isn't a prolific stats player but good enough for fantasy teams.
Nathan Foley is a useful midfielder for fantasy and should see an increase in role.
Richard Tambling might become a big star as he could be moved into the middle this season.
Krakouer needs to kick a few more goals to be a valuable fantasy player but he might do it in 2007.
Dean Polo was a productive player in AFL fantasy last season, his price will be higher but his production might be too.
Brown is still a risk for AFL fantasy if his price is high, so unless he is a bargain a wait-and-see strategy with Brown might be best, the NAB Cup might give an indication of where he will be playing and how effective he is.
Possible Fantasy Sleeper:
Cameron Howat. He should be elevated from their rookie list soon and will play a lot of AFL this season. Howat can get a lot of the ball.
First Year Players For AFL Fantasy:
The Tigers first three picks in the AFL National Draft are all a chance to be fantasy stars. Jack Riewoldt could play a tall position at either end, he will more likely be a forward and in competition with Schulz and Kingsley for playing time. Small players Edwards and Connors could also be playing AFL in 2007. Another injury or two to the Tigers' onballers and one or both of Edwards and Connors could be useful fantasy players. Peterson and Collins are unlikely to play AFL this season.
Here is a preview of a possible team for the AFL Fantasy Dream Team competition. The positions are from last season's competition, or an estimate for the new players. The team was put together using approximate prices for the players.
Chad Cornes: His brother was an expensive player in Dream Team last season, Chad is a bit cheaper and will have a similar season with statistics.
Adam McPhee: An expectation of a more attacking role means his statistics could be a lot better than other years as he often had to fill a tall defensive spot in the past.
Andrew McLeod: A star player and after his performance in the All Stars game in Darwin he has shown he has plenty left in the tank.
Sam Fisher: He gets so much of the ball and he can play on many different types of players, that keeps him up the top for fantasy stats.
Sean Dempster: Maybe just to start the year, with Roberts-Thomson out, although Dempster might do enough anyway to keep for AFL fantasy when LRT returns. If Dempster is getting more playing time at the start of the season his disposals per game could be double his average from 2006. If he increases his value after a few weeks he could be an asset to trade.
Nick Maxwell: A player who could improve a lot with his stats and Collingwood seem to be pushing him into a bigger role.
Graham Polak: A value-based pick, if his price is similar to what it was last season then he should be a bargain and a good contributor for fantasy stats with his new team. Richmond need his height in the back line, and he might also play a bit in the ruck if Simmonds isn't playing. He is going to get some kicks, marks and hitouts so that will add up.
Xavier Ellis: He was eligible as a defender last season so he could have that position this year too. Might as well add him as a cheap player with a big upside.
Lachlan Hansen: Whatever AFL fantasy game you are playing, Hansen will be a good signing. He is going to get a lot of stats, and in the Dream Team competition if some of his kicks or handballs don't hit their target it won't matter, as it's the totals that count for this fantasy competition. Maybe Hansen could be a starter instead of on the bench, at least assign him to be an emergency.
B C Kornes
B A McPhee
B A McLeod
B S Fisher
B S Dempster
B N Maxwell
B G Polak
B X Ellis
B L Hansen
Brisbane's Nigel Lappin may be missing more games as he has another injury. He can't straighten his arm, and this could mean he misses the NAB Cup.
News from Brisbane newspaper The Courier-Mail:
Lappin injury setback
AFL Fantasy Impact:
Lappin was going to be one of the healthy veterans that the Lions were expecting to play a big part in their 2007 season. Along with Brown and Johnson, Lappin could have been a big contributor for the Lions and AFL fantasy teams. It was always going to be interesting to see the price of Nigel Lappin in AFL fantasy leagues, as he missed last season with injury. If his arm gets better and his fantasy price is not too high then play him when the Lions do. If Lappin is not ready to play, then consider some of their young players for a fantasy spot. Proud is the one who could have the biggest fantasy value as he is a first-year player, you can buy him cheap at the start of the season and his value will increase a lot.
Sleeves that help hold onto the ball, AFL teams must be thinking about trying out this new technology. The NRL Brisbane Broncos have unveiled their new uniform, some of the features include an area on the sleeves that will help the player grip the ball and there is also a part of the shorts that will allow a player to dry their hands. This will also be useful, just as long as players dry their hands on their own shorts.
News from the Brisbane Broncos:
New Jersey Launched as WCC Squad Named
Dean Laidley and Mark Thompson are two AFL coaches who are under pressure this season. The question for today is who was the coach of the Kangaroos before Laidley, and who was the coach of the Cats that was replaced by Thompson? Post your answer in the comments section below.
The Saints of today, and the players who were there in 1992.
A look at players who were in some small way similar to what the club has now, these are not direct player comparisons as there were plenty of players who were unique, one-of-kind stars. A fun test to see how many players were memorable from the past team, and how many have been forgotten about.
St Kilda 2007 and 1992:
Jarryd Allen - Sean Ralphsmith
Player who can fill a spot at either end.
David Armitage - Stephen Newport
Valuable small.
Steven Baker - Jayson Daniels
Not the most skills, but a lot of hustle.
Luke Ball - Nathan Burke
Tough, little midfielder
Shane Birss - Justin Peckett
Running back pocket player.
Jason Blake - Gordon Fode
Reserve big.
Barry Brooks - Lazar Vidovic
Inconsistent ruckman.
Matthew Clarke - Lawrence Bingham
Tall ruckman.
Raphael Clarke - Steven Clark
The Saints like the name Clark(e).
Xavier Clarke - Dale Kickett
Speed.
Nick Dal Santo - Gilbert McAdam
Lots of possessions.
Matthew Ferguson - Jeff Hilton
Backup defender.
Aaron Fiora - Nicky Winmar
Pace on the wing.
Leigh Fisher - Dean Greig
Strong defender/wing.
Sam Fisher - Tim Pekin
Underrated defender with run.
Michael Gardiner - Peter Everitt
Controversial ruckman/forward.
Fraser Gehrig - Tony Lockett
100-goal kicker.
Sam Gilbert - Michael Ford
Same playing weight, Gilbert just has an extra 10cm in height.
Brendon Goddard - Russell Morris
Quality backman who gets plenty of kicks.
Jason Gram - Mick Dwyer
Good foot skills.
James Gwilt - Peter Francis
Taller midfield option.
Aaron Hamill - David Grant
Big leap.
Robert Harvey - Robert Harvey
He's been there a long time.
Lenny Hayes - Adrian Fletcher
Gets a lot of the ball.
Brad Howard - John Georgiou
Young prospect.
Max Hudghton - Danny Frawley
Tall backman.
Justin Koschitzke - Dean Rice
Superstar, but never healthy.
Matthew Maguire - Jamie Shanahan
Strong tall defender.
Andrew McQualter - Craig O'Brien
Small but effective.
Stephen Milne - Danny Craven
Miniature footballer.
Leigh Montagna - Brett Bowey
Smallish footballer.
Phillip Raymond - Darren Davies
Backup forward.
Nick Riewoldt - Stewart Loewe
Marks anything that is kicked to him.
Michael Rix - Darren Flanigan
Lesser-used ruck option.
Justin Sweeney - Damen Shaw
Depth on the list.
Andrew Thompson - Frank Coghlan
Midfield player who hustles.
Brett Voss - Craig Devonport
Two-team player.
Fergus Watts - Tim Allen
Forgotten full forward.
There was a chance that Collingwood’s Alan Didak and St Kilda’s Matt Maguire could miss a lot of the 2007 AFL season but recently it has all been good news as the players are now looking at an early comeback. Both players recently said that round 1 is a possibility for them to make their return to AFL action.
AFL stories from last week about Didak and Maguire:
Didak return imminent
Maguire making good progress
A story from The Herald-Sun about Collingwood’s family day on Sunday, with a small mention about Didak training there:
Collingwood to work on defence
Maguire’s recovery news from The Herald-Sun:
Matt Maguire eyes Round 1 return
AFL Fantasy Impact:
Didak was one of Collingwood’s best fantasy players last season. If he did that with a partial tear in his ligament then he should be even better this season with that fixed. Probably worth the risk of playing him in AFL fantasy whenever the Magpies first play him. Didak has the fantasy points that a midfielder produces but he is a forward so that can be very beneficial to a fantasy team. A healthy Didak will be a Top 75 player for fantasy points, if his price is affordable then he could be a steal at the start of the AFL fantasy season. Didak playing would limit the playing time and fantasy points of several Magpies, these could include Medhurst, Davis and possibly Pendlebury or Egan.
Maguire’s return could push a few players into different spots for the Saints. Koschitzke might have been considered to replace Maguire as a tall defender but with Maguire back it might make Koschitzke more of a ruckman/forward. Blake might have been another tall defensive option for the Saints but he is unlikely to play if Maguire is healthy. Sam Fisher might have been tried as a centre half back, but with Maguire there he will be in his better spot on a flank and he produces plenty of fantasy points there. Maguire can be a solid fantasy player, in fantasy value he is comparable to other tall backs like Harris, Chaplin and Michael. If Maguire’s injury has knocked his fantasy price down a bit then he should be considered for a fantasy team when he plays.
The Tigers of today, and the players who were there in 1992.
A look at players who were in some small way similar to what the club has now, these are not direct player comparisons as there were plenty of players who were unique, one-of-kind stars. A fun test to see how many players were memorable from the past team, and how many have been forgotten about.
Richmond 2007 and 1992:
Joel Bowden - Brian Leys
Versatile tall.
Patrick Bowden - Sean Bowden
We are family.
Nathan G. Brown - Nathan Bower
Nathans.
Travis Casserly - Robert Walker
Mid-sized player.
Andrew Collins - Jason Smith
Young player on the list.
Daniel Connors - Craig Lambert
Tenacious midfielder.
Mark Coughlan - Peter Schwab
Onballer.
Brett Deledio - Stuart Maxfield
Strength, run and big kicking.
Shane Edwards - Stuart Griffiths
Shortish.
Nathan Foley - Dale Weightman
Small midfielder.
Darren Gaspar - Scott Turner
A big full back.
Ray Hall - Mark Pitura
Versatile tall.
Brent Hartigan - Todd Breman
Utility.
Cleve Hughes - Terry Keays
Backup forward.
Chris Hyde - Greg Hamilton
Utility player.
Daniel Jackson - Craig Smith
Versatile medium-sized player.
Kane Johnson - Matthew Knights
Midfield leader.
Kent Kingsley - Des Ryan
Forward option.
Trent Knobel - Ty Esler
Height.
Andrew Krakouer - Chris Naish
Forward pocket.
Luke McGuane - Matthew Francis
Backup big.
Danny Meyer - Luke Donald
Small forward,
Kelvin Moore - Stephen Ryan
Tall/medium project player.
Chris Newman - Tony Free
Underrated defender.
Jarrad Oakley-Nicholls - Paul Dimattina
Terry Wallace coached.
Adam Pattison - Steven O'Dwyer
Tall backup.
Carl Peterson - Bruce Lennon
Forward prospect.
Kayne Pettifer - Nick Daffy
Goals and possessions in the forward line.
Graham Polak - David Honeybun
Tall player for various roles.
Dean Polo - Mark McQueen
Solid defender/midfielder.
Andrew Raines - Wayne Campbell
Outside runner.
Matthew Richardson - Jeff Hogg
If he kicks a lot of goals, they win.
Jack Riewoldt - Stuart Edwards
Full forward option.
Jay Schulz - Stevan Jackson
Inconsistent tall forward.
Troy Simmonds - Brendon Gale
Mobile ruckman and goal kicker.
Richard Tambling - Anthony Banik
High draft pick.
Will Thursfield - Duncan Kellaway
Strength in the back line.
Greg Tivendale - Todd Menegola
Bigger midfield option.
Shane Tuck - Ashley Prescott
Taller onballer.
Matthew White - Tim Livingstone
Smaller utility player.
The Eagles and Dockers could both finish in the Top 4, all their stars are ready to go but injuries have hit players on both teams. The Eagles would have expected big things from Mark Nicoski in 2007 but that will be put on hold as he has another injury to recover from. The Dockers don't need another ruckman with Sandilands there, but Robert Warnock was probably going to play a few games this season as his backup. Warnock injured his foot so his preparation for season 2007 will be affected.
Statement about Nicoski's injury: Nicoski injured in hit-out
News about Warnock: Warnock setback for Dockers
AFL Fantasy Impact:
Nicoski nearly made it into their Grand Final side and will probably force his way into the Eagles team when he recovers from his shoulder problem. Will probably be a good fantasy player at some time during the season, until he is back that will leave an open spot for someone like Priddis or Staker. Priddis won't cost a lot so if he is playing for the Eagles you might want to sign him.
Toe injuries can be serious for big guys so Warnock may not be ready for the opening round. Warnock would only have AFL fantasy value if Sandilands was out of the team. The Dockers will continue with Sandilands in the ruck and Longmuir will take over for him when Sandilands needs a rest.
The Demons of today, and the players who were there in 1992.
A look at players who were in some small way similar to what the club has now, these are not direct player comparisons as there were plenty of players who were unique, one-of-kind stars. A fun test to see how many players were memorable from the past team, and how many have been forgotten about.
Melbourne 2007 and 1992:
Clint Bartram - Darren Kowal
Very good small player.
Matthew Bate - Darren Cuthbertson
Solid secondary forward option.
Daniel Bell - Andrew Obst
Strong midfielder.
Clint Bizzell - Peter Rohde
Moved to Demons after time at another club.
Nathan D. Brown - Paul Hopgood
Short defender.
Cameron Bruce - Andy Lovell
Talented player who knows where the goals are.
Simon Buckley - Michael Pickering
Midfielder/forward.
Nathan Carroll - Sean Wight
The full back.
Aaron Davey - Sean Charles
The small forward.
Lynden Dunn - Garry Lyon
Big forward, both have a name starting with "Ly" too.
Ryan Ferguson - Andrew Lamprill
Tall/medium defender.
James Frawley - Andy Goodwin
Tallish defender.
Colin Garland - Grant Williams
Tall forward project.
Simon Godfrey - Darren Bennett
Long kick.
Brad Green - Glenn Lovett
Skilful onballer/forward.
Ben Holland - Brian Stynes
Someone's brother.
Mark Jamar - Greg Doyle
Backup big.
Chris Johnson - Chris Sullivan
They're called Chris.
Paul Johnson - Paul Bryce
Backup tall on their list.
Travis Johnstone - Stephen Tingay
Run on the wing.
Nathan Jones - Rod Keogh
Strength in the middle.
James McDonald - Greg Healy
Important onballer.
Brock McLean - Todd Viney
Midfield toughness, one with a headband and one without.
Brad Miller - David Schwarz
Strong-bodied key forward.
Brent Moloney - Brett Lovett
Tough midfielder.
David Neitz - David Neitz
Has certainly been there a long time.
Heath Neville - Haydn Robins
Smaller defender.
Michael Newton - Shane Burgmann
Tall prospect.
Ricky Petterd - Graeme Yeates
Footballer with solid skills.
Byron Pickett - Rod Grinter
Ouch.
Jared Rivers - Wayne Henwood
Tall back.
Russell Robertson - Allen Jakovich
A different type of forward.
Colin Sylvia - Kevin Dyson
Important part of midfield unit.
Daniel Ward - Matthew Febey
A lot of the ball.
Matthew Warnock - Simon Eishold
Forward option.
Isaac Weetra - Luke Beveridge
Small forward.
Paul Wheatley - John Howat
Defender.
Matthew Whelan - Steven Febey
Run and disposals from the back.
Jeff White - Jim Stynes
Dominating ruckman, but different styles.
Adem Yze - Steven Stretch
Run on the wing or around half forward at the MCG.
A quick look at some of the players from the Essendon Bombers - Indigenous All Stars game and how they might go in AFL fantasy leagues for 2007, and if they played in different positions in this game compared to previously in their career.
Richard Cole: Had a bad season when he first joined Essendon, but was a strong defender during this game. There may be a spot for him in the Essendon team this season. His fantasy price will be affordable too.
Alwyn Davey: He was as advertised, very quick and very effective in the forward area. Another player who will be cheap to buy in AFL fantasy leagues. He didn't play too deep in the forward line, more of a half forward flank, so for fantasy stats that is better than him being in the forward pocket.
Dustin Fletcher: Should be freed from the full back spot and will get more of the ball around half back. Was very effective in this game, but he did have half a foot of height on most opponents. He's injury-free and in the action more so he could have a much better season for fantasy statistics than in previous years.
David Hille: He was the biggest player out there, at least until McKinnon replaced him in the ruck, so it wasn't difficult for him to dominate. But he was in good form and should be a good option for your fantasy team.
James Hird: Started slow but ended up with a couple of goals. Found plenty of space up forward and depending on his price he will be a valuable fantasy player once more.
Tom Hislop: He might be playing in round 1 for the Bombers so keep an eye on him. In all parts of the game he is ready to play now. He will be one of the cheapest players to buy for fantasy teams but he should end up with a much higher price when he does play AFL. If any of the Bombers' first year players are there in round 1 it will be Hislop or Davey, maybe both of them.
Courtney Johns: The idea at Essendon seems to be Lloyd and Johns deep in the forward line, with Lucas and Hird further out from goal. Johns would be a much better player for AFL fantasy teams without Lloyd, so maybe wait to see how effective Johns is before playing him. Watch the NAB Cup game to see if there is room for both Lloyd and Johns in the forward 50.
Sam Lonergan: Had plenty of the ball but may not be in the senior side a lot this season.
Andrew Lovett: He was on the wrong team this game, and might find himself competing with Davey for a forward pocket role with the Bombers this season.
Nathan Lovett-Murray: Was one of the bigger players on the other team, which was not easy against the big Bombers. The forward line is full so Lovett-Murray will probably play as a defender for the Bombers in 2007. He has solid fantasy stats there.
Scott Lucas: Still in the good form of last season, but again that was without Lloyd also there.
Adam McPhee: McPhee won't be played deep in the back line, Michael is there now as well as Bradley, Lovett-Murray and Fletcher. McPhee had space through the middle of the ground during this game and if he does have a more attacking role it could provide a lot more stats. McPhee could be a big marking option on the wing for Essendon, he would be a good player for AFL fantasy if that happened.
Mal Michael: He seems to have fitted in perfectly. Won't be a big star with stats but might be a solid player if his fantasy price is low. The question of where Fletcher and Michael would play was quickly answered, as Michael will be playing in his best spot at full back.
Paddy Ryder: He was the tall option for the All Stars but he couldn't compete with some of the stronger Essendon players. He might need another year of bulking-up before he gets regular AFL action. He struggled in the ruck against Hille, and Essendon have a loaded forward line, so there isn't a spot for Ryder unless an injury hits the Bombers.
Brent Stanton: Plenty of the ball and will be a very good fantasy player this season.
Jason Winderlich: There may not be a spot in the side right now but he is close, he had a very good game here.
Des Headland: Hit the post a couple of times, but he was getting the ball in scoring position. If he could increase his goals output to 40 for 2007 his fantasy points would be a lot higher.
Aaron Davey: Nothing wrong with his ankle so that is the most important thing. Should again be one of the better forwards for AFL fantasy.
Andrew Krakouer: He did not have the ideal offseason preparation but in this game he showed he is ready for 2007. Was probably the best forward for the All Stars in this game.
Richard Tambling: This is supposed to be the year when he steps up, but didn't do a lot in this game. But for Richmond he fits his team better, as the speed element to the midfield strength of Tuck and Deledio.
Byron Pickett: Looked big and strong, and ready to go. He started last season a bit slow but that shouldn't happen this year.
Andrew McLeod: Just a typical game of his, taking the ball at half back and going on a big run, and he did this plenty of times. Maybe the Crows won't be playing him forward very much when he is playing so well in his usual spot. For AFL fantasy statistics he will be more valuable if he plays around half back or the midfield.
It must be remembered that the All Stars were without a lot of their taller players, so many who played were out of position. The ones who did play would have had a good hitout to start the season and many players on the team will be AFL fantasy stars when the season begins.
Here is a simple tipping game for the AFL preseason competition. It is similar to the NCAA tournament or the soccer World Cup tipping as you fill in all the results before the competition starts.
Just copy and paste the schedule below, and fill in who you think will be the winner for each game. Starting with the second round, you then pick between the two teams you had winning in the previous round. For example, in week two the winner for game 9 of the NAB Cup will be between the winners of game 5 and game 3. Then after going through all the games you select the winner of the NAB Cup. It is unlikely to be needed, but for a tiebreaker to see who wins the tipping the score for the NAB Grand Final can also be guessed. Just copy the list of games, select who you think will win all the games and then post it in the comment section for this post.
Make sure you have posted your selections before the games start on February 23. To determine a winner for the tipping challenge, points for picking each game winner will be given. 1 point for predicting the correct team in week 1 games, 2 points for week 2, 4 points for week 3 and 8 points for correctly predicting the NAB Cup winner.
Week 1
1. Port Adelaide v Adelaide
Winner:
2. Kangaroos v Collingwood
Winner:
3. Western Bulldogs v Sydney
Winner:
4. Carlton v Essendon
Winner:
5. St Kilda v Brisbane
Winner:
6. Geelong v Richmond
Winner:
7. Melbourne v Hawthorn
Winner:
8. Fremantle v West Coast
Winner:
Week 2
9. #5 v #3 (StK/Bri v WB/Syd)
Winner:
10. #7 v #4 (Haw/Mel v Car/Ess)
Winner:
11. #6 v #1 (Ric/Gee v Port/Ade)
Winner:
12. #2 v #8 (Kan/Col v Fre/WCE)
Winner:
Week 3
13. Winners of Matches 9 and 11
Winner:
14. Winners of Matches 10 and 12
Winner:
NAB Cup Grand Final
15. Winners of Matches 13 and 14
Winner:
NAB Cup Grand Final score:
The Kangaroos of today, and the North Melbourne players who were there in 1992.
A look at players who were in some small way similar to what the club has now, these are not direct player comparisons as there were plenty of players who were unique, one-of-kind stars. A fun test to see how many players were memorable from the past team, and how many have been forgotten about.
Kangaroos 2007 and 1992:
Glenn Archer - Glenn Archer
A long, successful career.
Leigh Brown - Ian Fairley
Fairly good defenders.
Aaron Edwards - John Longmire
Plenty of goals.
Michael Firrito - Darren Steele
Multi-position player.
Joshua Gibson - Anthony Dwyer
Underrated skills.
Todd Goldstein - Alex Ischenko
Huge ruckman.
Shannon Grant - Joe Romero
Small player who can kick a few goals.
Kasey Green - Darren Crocker
Helpful to the coach as he plays wherever there is a need.
Blake Grima - Justin Staritski
Backup midfielder.
David Hale - Mark Roberts
Can play in both the ruck and the forward line.
Lachlan Hansen - Wayne Carey
Very important key position player.
Leigh Harding - John McCarthy
Underappreciated smaller forward.
Daniel Harris - Anthony Rock
Tough, little onballer.
Brent Harvey - Peter German
Goal-kicker and leader.
Jonathan Hay - Craig Sholl
Athlete, at least in their early days.
Corey Jones - Brett Allison
Provides a spark in the forward line with exciting play.
Ed Lower - Ben Buckley
Medium defender.
Daniel McConnell - Paul Spargo
Effective midfielder/forward.
Hamish McIntosh - Michael Gallagher
Lumbering height.
Scott McMahon - Dean McRae
Medium utility player.
Brad Moran - Jason Daniltchenko
Exciting on debut.
Drew Petrie - Corey McKernan
Ruck type who can cover a lot of ground and play a key position.
Daniel Pratt - Alastair Clarkson
Small worker in the middle.
Brady Rawlings - Liam Pickering
Midfielder.
Matt Riggio - Donald McDonald
Big, strong defender.
Ben Ross - Shaun Smith
Excitement machine.
Eddie Sansbury - Leigh Tudor
Small forward.
Adam Simpson - Anthony Stevens
Same initials, similar game.
Jess Sinclair - Matthew Larkin
Underappreciated midfielder.
Jesse Smith - Ross Smith
Family.
Andrew Swallow - Adam McCarthy
Utility player.
Lindsay Thomas - Marty Christensen
Small with skills.
Nathan Thompson - Peter Mann
Big forward.
David Trotter - Richard Dennis
Reserve forward.
Callum Urch - Glenn Page
Small defender.
Gavin Urquhart - Stuart Anderson
Running defender.
Ben Warren - Mark Brayshaw
Versatile mid-sized player.
Shannon Watt - Mick Martyn
Full back.
Daniel Wells - Wayne Schwass
Midfield run.
Djaran Whyman - Carl Dilena
Under 180cm player.
The Bombers defeated the Indigenous All Stars in Darwin, 14 - 9 - 93 to 6 - 7 - 43. Courtney Johns had a big game as Lloyd was rested. Lucas was also effective in attack as Essendon had a big height advantage.
The Davey on each team was impressive. Alwyn Davey for Essendon was very quick, scored a late goal too, and he might be there for Essendon in round 1. Aaron Davey had a slight knock to his ankle but shook it off very quickly.
Goals:
Essendon: 4 Lucas, 3 Johns, 2 Hird, Houli, Jetta, Monfries, Stanton, Davey
All Stars: 2 Krakouer, 2 McLeod, Davey, Motlop
Will have a fantasy AFL analysis later, as there were new players to see and other players were tried in new spots. McPhee was in the middle of the ground a bit during the game, that could happen a lot more this season with the inclusion of Michael. While Johns was very good, and Neagle also was good towards the end of the game, when Lloyd plays it won’t be helpful to Johns’ statistics. Krakouer got a lot of the ball in front of goals, and with better accuracy he would have had 4 goals, so keep him as a possibility for a fantasy forward. Hislop showed a bit of potential too, his kicking was solid and his size was useful for him too, could be an option for a midfield bench spot for AFL fantasy leagues.
FB: No Overrating, Call Home I'm Calm, Can Kick Miles
HB: Air Level Six, Thank Bacon, Ace Crumber On
C: Ask Major Insane, Clock Mr Bean, Mr Congenial
HF: March On With Trades, One Wild Trick, Great Tribunal Joy
FF: The Goal Antenna, Fresh Rage Rig, Bar Fan Love Den,
Foll: Don't Be Star, Bounciness, Tried To Bleed
bench: Grand Bench Arrived, Miner Laid Charge, King Cobra Bistro, Stinky Leg Ken
emergency: Lobster Hits News-room, Mr Bank Loot, Car Dealer Hiring
This team of stars is made up of the anagrams of the following players, listed below in alphabetical order but arranged in the team in their correct positions:
Gary Ablett Junior
Jason Akermanis
Nathan Bock
Mark Bolton
Cameron Bruce
Ben Cousins
Brett Deledio
Nathan Eagleton
Xavier Ellis
Brendan Fevola
Charlie Gardiner
Michael Gardiner
Fraser Gehrig
Antoni Grover
Garrick Ibbotson
Kent Kingsley
Cameron Ling
Nick Malceski
Brock McLean
Malcolm Michael
Brad Ottens
Matthew Richardson
Nick Riewoldt
Lewis Roberts-Thomson
Richard Vandenberg
Important Outs:
S Dew, G Wanganeen, J Francou, A Kingsley, P Walsh, M Bishop
Important Ins:
T Boak, D Rodan
Injury News:
W Tredrea (knee, may miss early rounds)
Fantasy Stars:
If you have someone called Cornes on your fantasy team then you will have a very good team. Kane actually had a slightly better fantasy value than his brother last season, although both are among the top fantasy players. A couple of Burgoynes are also useful for AFL fantasy teams, Shaun might be the better of the two. There is also ruck help from the Power, Lade is a fantasy superstar and Brogan isn't far behind him either. So if one of them is out injured make sure you sign the other. Pearce and Salopek get plenty of the ball and are still capable of more improvement. Lonie, Symes and Cassisi consistently get stats, and there will be even more opportunities with players like Dew, Walsh and Wanganeen gone now.
Possible Fantasy Stars:
Tredrea isn't an elite fantasy forward now, so don't pay too much for him. He may not be ready to go early in the season.
Bentley and Logan were promoted from the rookie list and both could have good AFL fantasy seasons.
Chaplin is a very useful player for fantasy stats for a tall backman.
Josh Mahoney is underrated in fantasy, and give more consideration to playing him if the Power are without Tredrea.
Brett Ebert was a big improver last season, but that may have pushed up his price too high this season.
Possible Fantasy Sleeper:
Jacob Surjan. He had a big season last year so he won't be a bargain, but there is a good chance that he is even better this season and will be worth the much higher price.
First Year Players For AFL Fantasy:
Travis Boak should play in 2007, put him on your bench when the Power name him to play. Small forwards Gray and Krakouer have a lot of competition among the other forwards there so don't expect them to play, but if they do play in 2007 they might be able to score some goals. Stewart, Westhoff, Williams and Cockshell may not see senior action until the last few rounds of the 2007 season.
Clinton Young: Only Counting
If you are only counting the players with a name that starts with Y, there are two.
Adem Yze: Dye Maze
A maze is like an anagram, confusing but fun.
That is the end of the AFL anagrams for now, with the exception of the All-AFL Anagram Team which will be posted soon.
The Hawks of today, and the players who were there in 1992.
A look at players who were in some small way similar to what the club has now, these are not direct player comparisons as there were plenty of players who were unique, one-of-kind stars. A fun test to see how many players were memorable from the past team, and how many have been forgotten about.
Hawthorn 2007 and 1992:
Max Bailey - Stephen Lawrence
Tall ruckman.
Chance Bateman - John Platten
Not just the hair.
Grant Birchall - Gary Ayres
Defender with many skills.
Tim Boyle - Domenic Berry
Tall guy on their list.
Campbell Brown - Dermott Brereton
The enforcer.
Robert Campbell - Greg Dear
Another big ruckman.
Tim Clarke - Glenn Nugent
Can run.
Shane Crawford - Shane Crawford
He's been there a while.
Trent Croad - Mark Graham
A tall option at either end.
Zac Dawson - Simon Crawshay
Gangly.
Ben Dixon - Paul Hudson
Secondary forward option.
Beau Dowler - Andrew Gowers
Tall with versatility, probably best as a forward.
Xavier Ellis - Darrin Pritchard
Dash through the middle.
Lance Franklin - Jason Dunstall
Hard to contain forward.
Stephen Gilham - Scott Maginness
Tallish defender.
Brent Guerra - Richard Taylor
Small guy.
Luke Hodge - Darren Jarman
Midfield dominance and can play down either end too.
Danny Jacobs - Chris Mew
Patrols the half back area.
Josh P. Kennedy - Alex McDonald
Versatile.
Rick Ladson - Ricky Nixon
Two Ricks.
Jordan Lewis - Anthony Condon
Can bring a bit more size to the midfield, or play in other spots too.
Matthew Little - Stuart Steele
Combined, they make Stuart Little.
Ben McGlynn - Scott Crow
Smallish midfielder.
Sam Mitchell - Ben Allan
The man in the middle.
Jarryd Morton - Phillip Murton
Similar last name.
Garry Moss - Chris Wittman
Underrated player.
Thomas Murphy - Dean Anderson
Underrated secondary forward option.
Beau Muston - Tony Hall
Talented half forward/midfield player.
Michael Osborne - Paul Cooper
Backup player.
Brent Renouf - Greg Madigan
Tall and versatile.
Jarryd Roughead - Chris Langford
Big, strong backman.
Brad Sewell - Greg Whittlesea
Good foot skills.
Joel Smith - Ray Jencke
Backman.
Simon Taylor - Jason Taylor
Tall guy called Taylor.
Mitchell Thorp - Paul Dear
Big player with versatility.
Josh Thurgood - Austin McCrabb
Fan favourite in the back line.
Travis Tuck - Michael Johnston
Someone who knows Michael Tuck.
Richard Vandenberg - Andrew Collins
Small player with solid skills and leadership.
Mark Williams - James Morrissey
Small goal kicker with freakish skills.
Clinton Young - Matthew Young
Young player in the back line.
A game-worn, unique jumper that was used by one of the game's best young talents, what a bargain. Not only was it from a special "throwback" round but it was also worn by a star who was in his first year of AFL football, Lance Franklin.
Hawthorn's Lance Franklin's MATCH WORN Guernsey
Not just something unique to have hanging on your wall, there has to be investment potential for this too. Although the best fun would be to wear it, and as Franklin is around 196cm tall then this jumper will be big enough for nearly anyone. It would also make a great present for someone, you could give it to a buddy. In the auction it says it comes with a Certificate Of Authenticity, so if this is the jumper that Lance Franklin played in then it could become a great collectable in the future. First year, or "rookie", items are often the hardest to find among sports collectables.
If you prefer the usual Hawthorn look, the same seller on ebay also has the 2006 version with Franklin's updated number too.
Last season the Crows had a very effective ruck combo of Biglands and Clarke, but neither of those players will play in 2007. Hudson and Maric were expected to be the two ruckmen that the Crows played in 2007 but Meesen and Griffin are also in the running.
Click on this link to read the story from The Advertiser newspaper: Who will stand tall for Adelaide
AFL Fantasy Impact:
A real bargain fantasy player could emerge from this contest. Meesen and Griffin haven't played AFL before so their fantasy price will be very low. Maric only played a few games in a backup role last season so he will also be affordable. Hudson's value could be anywhere, it might be low because he missed last season or it could be a bit too high if the fantasy league considers his past games. Hudson was actually quite expensive at the start of the AFL fantasy competitions last season. Hudson should be a good fantasy ruckman and is very likely to be their number 1 option. Meesen could also surprise as he is ready and the Crows need to see what they have with him, putting Meesen in a ruck spot on your bench might be a good idea. But watch their game against the Power for a better idea on who the Crows are going to play in the ruck.
It's a simple strategy, if you have a midfielder who is being tagged you just send him deep into the forward line. Players like Deledio, who have above average height for a midfielder, then usually have a mismatch. If the other team then shifts a bigger defender onto him then he goes back into the middle where an advantage in pace is then gained.
Read this story from the Age newspaper to hear more about what Richmond might do in 2007: Tigers to grant Deledio free rein to shake taggers with a goalward shift
AFL Fantasy Impact:
This could be good for his stats, especially if he increases his goals totals and also contested marks, but there is obviously a possible negative side to it too. If he spends too much time up forward and the ball doesn't get to him then his fantasy stats will go missing. The ideal situation would be Deledio only going forward when he needs a rest from the middle, as you can't get statistics sitting on the bench. There may not be too much emphasis by Richmond to send Deledio forward when the season starts but it is something to watch as it could drastically change his AFL fantasy points. More time for Deledio up forward could also affect players like Tambling, Pettifer and Krakouer who would then have a shot at a bit more playing time in the middle of the action.
The Cats of today, and the players who were there in 1992.
A look at players who were in some small way similar to what the club has now, these are not direct player comparisons as there were plenty of players who were unique, one-of-kind stars. A fun test to see how many players were memorable from the past team, and how many have been forgotten about.
Geelong 2007 and 1992:
Gary Ablett - Mark Bairstow
Midfield leader who also kicks goals.
Nathan Ablett - Gary Ablett Version 1
Forward with a lot of skill.
Jimmy Bartel - Sean Simpson
Gets the ball and has defensive skills too.
Mark Blake - David Mensch
Strong ruckman, not the best foot skills.
Shannon Byrnes - Russell Merriman
Small who can play forward or in the middle.
Tim Callan - Darren Forssman
Forward/midfielder.
Paul Chapman - Garry Hocking
Tough onballer.
Joel Corey - Peter Riccardi
Run and long kicking for goal.
Nathan Djerrkura - Gary Phillips
Small defender/midfielder.
Matt Egan - Tim Darcy
Underrated defender.
Corey Enright - Andrew Bews
Small player with strength and skill.
Ryan Gamble - Adrian Hickmott
Talented small forward.
Charlie Gardiner - Mark Neeld
Medium/tall who usually plays forward.
Tom Harley - Tim McGrath
Important defender.
Tom Hawkins - Billy Brownless
The big forward.
Simon Hogan - Tony Malakellis
Small runner.
Sam Hunt - Michael Schulze
Height in the back half.
Josh Hunt - Ken Hinkley
Defender who can launch the team into attack.
David Johnson - Steven Hocking
Tough defender.
Steve Johnson - Andrew Wills
Secondary forward option behind an Ablett.
James Kelly - Geoff Miles
Bigger midfielder.
Steven King - Damian Bourke
Huge ruckman.
Cameron Ling - Neville Bruns
Red.
Tom Lonergan - Paul Lynch
Unlucky.
Andrew Mackie - Paul Brown
Tallish utility player who can fill several roles.
Darren Milburn - Michael Mansfield
Possessions in the defensive half.
Cameron Mooney - John Barnes
Mobile ruckman, and not your normal footballer.
Brad Ottens - Barry Stoneham
Big with a big game but injuries too.
Stephen Owen - Martin Heffernan
Forward prospect.
Henry Playfair - Steven Handley
Not the most skill on the team.
Brent Prismall - Andrew Rogers
Onballer/defender.
Max Rooke - Trevor Poole
The double O last name, and a solid game on the field too.
Matthew Scarlett - Ben Graham
Full back.
Joel Selwood - Paul Couch
Midfield leader.
Matthew Spencer - Jamie Lamb
Taller defender.
Mathew Stokes - Robert Scott
Quick small forward.
Kane Tenace - Anthony Darcy
184cm utility player.
Travis Varcoe - Andrew MacNish
Small guy.
Trent West - Matthew Primus
Big guy who is behind a couple of other ruckmen at Geelong.
David Wojcinski - Spiro Malakellis
Small runner.
Djaran Whyman: Why Jan Ran Mad
Poor Jan.
Simon Wiggins: Win Go Missing
Success has disappeared from his club.
Cameron Wight: More Watching
If the Bulldogs are at full strength then he might not be picked every week and that might mean more watching of the games.
Beau Wilkes: Is Weak Blue
Not the best player in the blue and yellow.
Mark Williams: Warm Aim Skill
His good aim at kicking for goal is one of his best skills.
Tom Williams: Omit All Swim
Is usually only doing the light training, like swimming.
Ryan Willits: As In Will try
When the Power do include Willits in their team he will always try.
Michael Wilson: So Machine Will
A machine getting possessions in the defensive end for the Power.
Jason Winderlich: Jordan Lewis Chin
If that is the charge at the tribunal then he gets two or three weeks.
David Wirrpanda: Did Rip Van Award
Another award for him, but forgot to shake the hand of the person, or kid, who presented it.
David Wojcinski:
Too quick on the field and gets away from an anagram here too.
Cameron Wood: Rodeo Cowman
There may not be a place for a 202cm person in the rodeo.
Important Outs:
P Read, S Motlop, A Nicholson
Important Ins:
R Petterd, J Frawley
Injury News:
No significant injuries reported.
Fantasy Stars:
The Demons can help your fantasy team in all spots. Jeff White is one of the best ruckmen for fantasy, that should continue. The Demons don't have a lot of forwards that they play, but that is great for their fantasy stats. Bruce, Davey and Neitz have all been quality players in AFL fantasy. Rivers is a big back who gets fantasy points, Whelan has been another good player for a fantasy defender. The midfield provides plenty of options with McDonald, McLean, Green, Yze, Johnstone, Ward and Bruce can be played there too.
Possible Fantasy Stars:
Jones had a big start to his career, in fantasy last season he was a big steal. He could keep improving.
Bate provided good stats when he played last season, he is useful especially if eligible to play as a fantasy forward.
Some days Robertson seems to be a bit injured, other times he can't be stopped. Not the most consistent fantasy player but can have big games. But his fantasy points average out to be a solid number.
Moloney might be a player to sign this season, could be very cheap compared to his statistics potential when healthy.
Colin Sylvia might find a bigger role this season.
Possible Fantasy Sleeper:
Lynden Dunn. There is a need for another taller forward in the Demons' forward line. Dunn would be capable of providing a marking target around centre half forward.
First Year Players For AFL Fantasy:
The Demons are unlikely to get any help from their draft picks. Petterd might be the best option, he is ready for AFL and could get plenty of the ball as a back pocket. Maybe an injury or two hits the Demons' tall defenders and that could open a spot for James Frawley, he might have the skills to get the ball as well as defending and that is what produces fantasy points. Their other new players are a long way off playing.
The Dockers and Power of today, and the players who were with Fitzroy in 1992.
Something different had to be done to fit the Dockers and the Power on this list, as they were not around in 1992, so the current teams have had some of their best players selected and then compared to what the Fitzroy Lions had on their list 15 years ago.
A look at players who were in some small way similar to what the clubs have now, these are not direct player comparisons as there were plenty of players who were unique, one-of-kind stars. A fun test to see how many players were memorable from the past team, and how many have been forgotten about.
Fremantle and Port Adelaide of 2007 and Fitzroy of 1992:
Peter Bell - Jim Wynd
Small in size, big in effort.
Josh Carr - Ross Lyon
Strong midfielder.
Troy Cook - Shayne Stevenson
Plays forward or midfield.
Jeff Farmer - Matthew Armstrong
Small goal-kicker.
Paul Hasleby - Brad Boyd
Important part of midfield group.
Des Headland - Brendan McCormack
Goal-kicker.
Michael Johnson - John Blakey
Defender who can play in the middle too.
Luke McPharlin - Paul Abbott
Big body at either end of the ground.
David Mundy - Peter Caven
Possessions accumulator around centre half back.
Shane Parker - Michael Gale
Dependable running medium defender.
Matthew Pavlich - Paul Roos
Star.
Brett Peake - Jason Baldwin
Speed.
Aaron Sandilands - Peter Sartori
Size.
Dean Solomon - Brett Stephens
Versatile medium/tall.
Chris Tarrant - Darren Wheildon
Kicks plenty of goals, other similarities too.
Dean Brogan - Ashley Matthews
A tall.
Peter Burgoyne - Matthew Dundas
Gets the ball in the middle and can also play as a forward.
Shaun Burgoyne - Joe Cormack
Little goal-kicker.
Troy Chaplin - Stephen Paxman
Big defender.
Chad Cornes - Marcus Seecamp
Mobile defender who plays tall.
Kane Cornes - Jamie Elliott
Useful player that can get plenty of the ball when playing as a defender.
Brett Ebert - Richard Osborne
Forward who plays very big, when compared to his actual height.
Brendon Lade - Gavin Exell
Mobile ruckman.
Nathan Lonie - Jeremy Guard
Solid foot skills.
Josh Mahoney - Paul Broderick
Little worker.
Danyle Pearce - David Donato
Hard to catch.
Steven Salopek - David Johnston
Dependable small.
Warren Tredrea - Alastair Lynch
Power forward.
Darryl Wakelin - David O'Connell
Good tall defender.
Michael Wilson - Duane Rowe
Good small defender.
Coughlan won't be playing this season after more problems with his knee. This isn't confirmed but with Coughlan's long-term injury it could likely mean that Howat finds a spot on their senior list.
Read the statement from the Tigers about Coughlan's injury: Slip-up costs Coggo
AFL Fantasy Impact:
If Coughlan was healthy he would have been a very good fantasy player, one of Richmond's best midfielders along with Delidio and Tuck. But now other players will step up, and who gets a spot in the centre square might become apparent during the NAB Cup. Richard Tambling could be the answer and for AFL fantasy he could be a big improver in 2007. Johnson, Foley and Raines could also have better numbers if played more in the middle. Another player to watch is Daniel Connors. He will be an inexpensive first year player for AFL fantasy but if the Tigers play him his fantasy value will increase rapidly, and don't forget Howat if the Tigers elevate him.
Fergus Watts: Few Trust Gas
Thomas didn't trust Fergus enough to play him, maybe he gets a new chance with a new coach.
Luke Webster: Sweeter Bulk
Has the skills but needs a bit more strength.
Daniel Wells: Aliens Dwell
His powers are out of this world.
Andrew Welsh: Drawn Wheels
Strange anagram.
Scott Welsh: Stews Cloth
He would have been stewing if the Crows didn't give him a new contract.
Michael West: Whistle Came
When he hears a whistle he is in Werribee.
Scott West:
Misses out on an anagram, maybe by just one vote.
Trent West: Strew Tent
Will need to camp out in the VFL until King or Ottens go down with an injury.
Paul Wheatley: A Wheat Pulley
Will find more opportunities with a country league.
Matthew Whelan: Them Want Whale
They probably don't want him.
Damon White: With A Demon
On this alphabetical list Damon White is right there with a Demon, or actually three of them.
Jeff White:
No anagram for White.
Matthew White: Meet With What
He will meet any challenge.
Lance Whitnall: Clean Thin Wall
A defensive wall there with clean disposal, the Blues are a bit thin when it comes to key backmen.
The Richmond Tigers NAB 15 Challenge seemed like an odd idea at the time, as logically the top 15 players for preseason training were going to be very short and key position players would struggle. It made sense that Gaspar was not going to beat many Richmond onballers in a long distance run. Here is a quick look at the top 25 players in contention for the 15 automatic selections for the Tigers versus Cats NAB Cup opening round game. You won't see Knobel on the list. Richmond fans should be very happy with Polak, he must have certainly trained hard after the trade from Fremantle.
The Richmond preseason player rankings, and their height in centimetres.
1. Nathan Foley 177
2. Brett Deledio 188
3. Cam Howat 182
4. Richard Tambling 179
5. Greg Tivendale 185
6. Shane Tuck 188
7. Kane Johnson 186
8. Andrew Krakouer 176
9. Kayne Pettifer 183
10. Matthew White 179
11. Kelvin Moore 190
12. Andrew Raines 184
13. Daniel Jackson 188
14. Joel Bowden 188
15. Graham Polak 194
16. Chris Newman 182
17. Patrick Bowden 191
18. Dean Polo 187
19. Brent Hartigan 178
20. Matthew Richardson 195
21. Darren Gaspar 192
22. Nathan Brown 177
23. Angus Graham 200
24. Luke McGuane 191
24. Adam Pattison 197
For which team did Darren Bennett first play for in the AFL, before moving to the Melbourne Demons? Leave a comment below if you can remember where it started for Bennett.
1: West Coast Eagles (1 in last AFL Power Rankings)
Nothing has changed in the last month to affect them on the field.
2: Western Bulldogs (4)
Everyone is ready to go, now they just have to figure out where players like Darcy and Murphy fit.
3: Sydney Swans (2)
LRT isn't their most important player, but the Swans would prefer he was there in round 1.
4: Fremantle Dockers (3)
Schammer won't be there to start the season.
5: Adelaide Crows (5)
Everything is going well for the Crows right now, but they have their fingers crossed that no more ruckmen get hurt.
6: Melbourne Demons (9)
Quietly going about their business, good news at this time of year.
7: St Kilda Saints (6)
Any time Riewoldt has an injury it is a problem, but it is a minor injury. R Clarke is also out for an extended time, Gardiner may miss games too.
8: Essendon Bombers (11)
Sheedy has a full list to choose from, now he just has to figure out who plays where. Their game in Darwin might feature players in new positions.
9: Richmond Tigers (7)
Training hard, and their Riewoldt is healthy, but a lot will depend on how quickly Simmonds returns from injury.
10: Geelong Cats (8)
Hawkins could be their most important player, but he might not be there in round 1.
11: Hawthorn Hawks (10)
Are down a ruckman with Bailey out for the year.
12: Collingwood Magpies (13)
Have had some injuries to players on their list but their core group is ready, except for Didak.
13: Port Adelaide Power (12)
Tredrea isn't ready to go, so the Power won't be operating at peak capacity.
14: Kangaroos (14)
Their draft picks are progressing well.
15: Brisbane Lions (15)
Hooper leaving isn't the best way to start the season..
16: Carlton Blues (16)
It wasn't their president who played, but his departure might give the club a fresh start. Trying Waite in the back line, probably a good idea.
The Bombers of today, and the players who were there in 1992.
A look at players who were in some small way similar to what the club has now, these are not direct player comparisons as there were plenty of players who were unique, one-of-a-kind stars. A fun test to see how many players were memorable from the past team, and how many have been forgotten about.
Essendon 2007 and 1992:
Mark Bolton - Paul Hills
Finds it difficult to get a regular game.
Kepler Bradley - Peter Cransberg
Long.
Scott Camporeale - Ricky Olarenshaw
Like looking in a mirror.
Richard Cole - David Grenvold
Medium backman.
Alwyn Davey - Darren Bewick
Small forward with special skills.
Courtenay Dempsey - Michael Symons
Athletic.
Ricky Dyson - Glenn Kilpatrick
Good midfield player.
Dustin Fletcher - Glenn Manton
Inspector Gadget arms.
Scott Gumbleton - Simon Madden
Skills for the ruck and as a key forward.
Chris Heffernan - Ed Considine
186cm player who can play in several spots.
David Hille - Paul Salmon
The big man.
James Hird - James Hird
Had played 4 games in 1992, a few more since then.
Tom Hislop - Joe Misiti
Bigger, stronger midfielder.
Bachar Houli - Peter Filandia
Very short.
Leroy Jetta - Michael Long
Quick outside midfielder.
Courtney Johns - Todd Ridley
Athletic key position from WA.
Jason Johnson - Greg Anderson
Dash through the middle, but combined with hardness at the ball.
Mark Johnson - Mark Thompson
A "Mark" of toughness in the back line for Essendon premiership sides.
Jason Laycock - Steven Alessio
A big body.
Andrew Lee - Ryan O'Connor
A big one.
Matthew Lloyd - Terry Daniher
Among the leaders at Essendon for goals in a career.
Sam Lonergan - David Calthorpe
Small but strong.
Andrew Lovett - Derek Kickett
Have "ett" to finish their names, and can also finish in front of goal.
Nathan Lovett-Murray - Kieran Sporn
Versatile, can play at either end.
Scott Lucas - Anthony Daniher
Big who can kick a goal or play back if needed.
Adam McPhee - Mark Harvey
It could be the hair, but it is the poise around half back.
Mark McVeigh - Gary O'Donnell
Small defender who finds the ball.
Malcolm Michael - Dean Wallis
Tough defender.
Angus Monfries - Alan Ezard
Smaller goal-kicker.
Jay Nash - Chris Daniher
Medium-sized player with versatility.
Jay Neagle - David Flood
Goal kicking ability.
Damien Peverill - Sean Denham
The midfield defensive player.
Kyle Reimers - Bradley Plain
Small forward.
Paddy Ryder - Peter Somerville
A shorter ruckman option, can also kick goals.
Henry Slattery - Mark Cullen
Small with ability.
Brent Stanton - Gavin wanganeen
Brownlow quality.
Jobe Watson - Willie Dick
Family connections at Essendon.
Andrew Welsh - Mark Mercuri
Versatile player.
Jason Winderlich - Damien Hardwick
A couple of "ick" players.
In the future Brendan Fevola could be an Oakland Raider, Anthony Rocca could be a Pittsburgh Steeler and Brendon Goddard could be a New Orleans Saint. Darren Bennett opened the door, Ben Graham eventually followed and Saverio Rocca is also getting a chance to play in the NFL. If NFL teams want to sign a punter then the AFL is the place to look.
Australian football has always been a sport where kicking the ball long was very important. A century ago Albert Thurgood was reportedly kicking the ball 75 yards. Dave McNamara was credited with a kick that went 97 yards.
NFL scouts should be visiting some former and current AFL players. Stuart Dew would be the main player to talk to. His game was all about getting the ball, taking a couple of steps and sending the football 60m. Dew retired early, compared to most AFL footballers, so he could have a long NFL punting career if he changed his mind and pursued it.
There are also some former AFL players who would have been very good at NFL punting, but they missed their chance. Ang Christou would have been a good option for the NFL. Richard Osborne was a former AFL player who did think about the NFL. He didn't make it though, either did Nathan Chapman although he did play a preseason game. Bill Brownless could have had a great career in the NFL. Kicking the ball over a wheat silo is a good indication of hang time.
Quinten Lynch is a current player who would be looked at by NFL scouts, and if he becomes a Green Bay Packer, Buffalo Bill or Seattle Seahawk he is already equipped with gloves for the cold, rain or snow. Fraser Gehrig would have been a good NFL player, as a middle linebacker or as a punter. That would probably be a rare combination. Scott Lucas has as big a left foot as Ben Graham does.
But assuming that Saverio Rocca makes it onto the Eagles' roster for next season, the next AFL player to go to the NFL could be Saverio's huge little brother. According to Sav, Anthony is also interested in going to the NFL. There are only 32 positions for punters in the NFL, already two are filled with long-kicking Australians with Big Sav another possible addition. It wouldn't surprise if in the near future there were ten Australian footballers in the AFL. It isn't a bad retirement plan for former AFL footballers.
The Saints have ruck depth this season, and they will need it as former Eagle Michael Gardiner may not be ready to go when the AFL season starts.
Have a look at this story from The Age newspaper for the details about Gardiner: Injured Gardiner to miss NAB Cup
AFL Fantasy Impact
The Saints don't think Gardiner will miss any regular season games but if he does then the AFL fantasy value of several players will change. Koschitzke or Clarke should be the players who benefit. Clarke doesn't help a lot in fantasy statistics but Koschitzke could have a big start to the AFL season if he is the Saints' starting ruckman. Koschitzke would have a useful number of possessions and his marks totals could be very high. Koschitzke was a high-priced player in AFL fantasy a year ago but due to all his injuries he could be much cheaper this season.
Adelaide Crows: Dallas Cowboys
Nobody is bigger in their town. They have the crowds, the cash and the publicity. But it has been a while now since both clubs won, the last Cowboys' SuperBowl triumph was in 1996 while the Crows have to go back nearly a decade for their back-to-back wins of 1997 and 1998.
Brisbane Lions: New England Patriots
The closest thing to a dynasty in recent seasons. It's not easy winning once, three times is a big achievement. The Lions had four AFL Grand Finals in a row, winning in 2001, 2002 and 2003. The Patriots, unlike the Lions, are still a contender and in the next couple of years they could add to their titles from 2002, 2004 and 2005.
Carlton Blues: San Francisco 49ers
When the 49ers had Montana and the Blues had Kernahan they were great, but right now they are both down the bottom and adding first overall draft picks. Alex Smith has a tough job leading the 49ers back to where they were and the duo of Murphy and Gibbs have an equally difficult task to take the Blues back to the top.
Collingwood Magpies: Oakland Raiders
Magpies fans might think they are loud, intimidating and an army, and they are right. But the fans who follow the Raiders might exceed them in those categories. A gold jacket doesn't match up with fans in facepaint, Darth Vader helmets and spiky costumes like the Legion Of Doom wrestlers used to wear.
Essendon Bombers: Pittsburgh Steelers
Bill Cowher recently retired after a huge run as coach, 15 years, although that is nothing compared to the longevity of Sheedy. But Sheedy might be happy to copy Cowher and retire after winning another title.
Fremantle Dockers: San Diego Chargers
The little team on the west coast who has a huge star. The new LT, LaDainian Tomlinson, leads the Chargers on the field while the Dockers have the great Pavlich, who has not been nicknamed MP. If the Dockers were a bit tougher they could have been compared to the Minnesota Vikings teams of the 1970s, the Purple People Eaters.
Geelong Cats: Buffalo Bills
Geelong had 1989, 1992, 1994 and 1995. Buffalo had 1991, 1992, 1993 and 1994. So that is a combined 0 and 8, for teams to get to the big game so often and never win is quite amazing. Gary Ablett was at Geelong, while the Bills were the home to OJ when he was playing, both might have been superstars on the field but better not mention anything else. Buffalo will always be overshadowed by New York City while Geelong also has to compete against the biggest city in their state.
Hawthorn Hawks: Washington Redskins
Both clubs had a good run during the 1980s and early 1990s, not a lot has gone right since. At least the Hawks got Dunstall back after he injured his knee, the Redskins were not as lucky with Joe Theismann when he injured his leg. Hawthorn's decade of dominance ended after their 1991 win while the Redskins have not been successful since defeating the Bills in 1992
Kangaroos: Detroit Lions
They have no chance of winning the trophy this season. But at least the Kangaroos do have a few trophies in their cabinet, the Detroit Lions have never even appeared in a SuperBowl.
Melbourne Demons: New York Jets
Maybe Kevin Arnold would have worn a Melbourne Demons jacket, maybe he wouldn't have. They may not have that in common but both clubs do have a similar history of success a long time ago, and nothing much since. But the 1960s were good for both clubs, with the Barrassi-led Demons and the Jets and their star Joe Namath.
Port Adelaide Power: Baltimore Ravens
A newer team in their leagues but also a winner. The Power in 2004 and the Ravens in 2001. That is a big accomplishment for the Power to win so soon after entering the AFL, and the Ravens also had a big turnaround to win a SuperBowl after moving from Cleveland.
Richmond Tigers: Cincinnati Bengals
Both teams like the stripes of a tiger. Richmond go as far as a healthy Richardson takes them while the Bengals need a healthy Carson Palmer to fire.
St Kilda Saints: Kansas City Chiefs
A lot of offense, but can't stop their opponent in the big games. But are still fun to watch during the regular season, when the Saints have Riewoldt dominating and the Chiefs have the unstoppable Larry Johnson. Both teams did win the trophy a long time ago, the Saints in 1966 and the Chiefs in 1970.
Sydney Swans: Tampa Bay Buccaneers
Laughing stock material for a lot of the past few decades, but both teams have turned it around in recent years and both the Swans and Buccaneers got to the top. The Swans won in 2005, the Buccaneers were successful in 2003.
West Coast Eagles: Philadelphia Eagles
Big games, controversy, star players, packed stadiums, they have a lot in common. The Eagles of the NFL got rid of TO, the Eagles of the AFL got rid of Michael Gardner. In Philadelphia they had a courthouse and jail for their fans, maybe West Coast could use that setup too, but not for their fans.
Western Bulldogs: Green Bay Packers
The small market team that can win. Chris Grant has not been able to do what Brett Favre did though, win it all. But Grant and Favre do have something else in common, loyalty to their club and extreme longevity. Their fans in the past have been unique too, for a while the Bulldogs had a bark when their team goaled while the Packers' fans enjoy their cheeseheads and also look forward to the 'Lambeau Leap' when their team scores a touchdown.
Next Time: The NBL Teams
The Magpies of today, and the players who were there in 1992.
A look at players who were in some small way similar to what the club has now, these are not direct player comparisons as there were plenty of players who were unique, one-of-a-kind stars. A fun test to see how many players were memorable from the past team, and how many have been forgotten about.
Collingwood 2007 and 1992:
John Anthony - Glenn Sandford
Big guy yet to make his senior debut.
Nathan Brown - Shane Morwood
Tall star who can make an impact at either end.
Chris Bryan - James Manson
Versatile ruckman/forward.
Nathan Buckley - Mick McGuane
Skills.
Scott Burns - Doug Barwick
Veteran onballer.
James Clement - Ron McKeown
Important backman.
Travis Cloke - Mark Richardson
Father/son connections, key position player.
Ryan Cook - Ian McMullin
Smallish forward.
Shannon Cox - Jason Croall
Tall/medium defender.
Benjamin Davies - Terry Hecker
Some unknown player.
Leon Davis - Brad Rowe
Small who knows where the goals are.
Chris Dawes - Craig Starcevich
Big, strong forward.
Brad Dick - Barry Rowlings
Knows where the goals are.
Alan Didak - Peter Daicos
Skilled around the goals.
Chris Egan - Troy Lehmann
Possibly underrated, but also possible trade bait.
Josh Fraser - Damien Monkhorst
202cm ruckman.
Tyson Goldsack - Brendan Tranter
At least they are on a list in the AFL.
Brodie Holland - Tony Shaw
Annoying to opponents.
Sam Iles - Shane Kerrison
Not flashy, but know their role.
Ben Johnson - Shane Watson
Takes the ball at half back and sends it to the forwards with a run and a kick.
Paul Licuria - Graham Wright
Hardness and a lot of the football.
Tarkyn Lockyer - Brad Hardie
Back pocket who has plenty of possessions.
Ryan Lonie - Scott Russell
Sends the ball from the back line up to the forwards.
Nick Maxwell - Gavin Crosisca
Plenty of possessions for a defender/wing.
Paul Medhurst - Tony Francis
Small who knows where the goals are located.
Shane O'Bree - Tony Woods
Does the hard work.
Harry O'Brien - Gary Pert
Reliable defender who started his career at Collingwood a bit later.
Scott Pendlebury - Jamie Turner
Versatile player.
Simon Prestigiacomo - Michael Christian
Strong-bodied tall defender.
Ben Reid - Jason McCartney
High draft pick prospect.
Guy Richards - Mick Gayfer
Not the most skilled, but still effective in their role.
Anthony Rocca - Saverio Rocca
A big Rocca.
Sean Rusling - Paul Sharkey
Medium/tall with a lot of potential.
Heath Shaw - Paul Williams
Speed all over the ground.
Rhyce Shaw - Mark Fraser
At least he can run fast.
Daniel Stanley - Jon Hassall
Not one of the first names picked for the team.
Dane Swan - Alan Richardson
Underrated worker who is an important part of their team.
Dale Thomas - Gavin Brown
Undersized, underrated but overachieves.
Alan Toovey - Darren Saunders
Defender.
Shane Wakelin - Craig Kelly
Third tall defender.
Jarrad Waite: Air Jet Award
Has aerial skills.
Darryl Wakelin: Ready, Warn, Kill
That's the attitude needed to win a premiership.
Shane Wakelin: He Walk Insane
Again he finishes second to his brother.
Andrew Walker: Knew Real Draw
Played in the Carlton-Essendon draw.
James Walker: Mark As Jewel
Walker taking a contested mark is as a rare as a jewel.
Daniel Ward: Wild DNA Era
That's a good era, at least better than the Allen Jakovich era they had.
Matthew Warnock: Watchmaker Town
That's just south of Zurich.
Robert Warnock: Won't Back Error
If he improves his game he might see some time next year as a backup in the ruck.
Beau Waters: Water Abuse
He abuses those on the field who get in his way too.
Jobe Watson: No Sweat Job
He doesn't sweat anyone.
Shannon Watt:
What, no anagram?
Kevin Sheedy just needed to hear that Mal Michael was retired to know that Essendon were a chance at acquiring him. Now the Adelaide Crows may have heard the words from Pavlich that will give them the incentive to do everything they can to get him. “I've never said never, whether that's during my career or after my career”, is Pavlich’s response about going back to Adelaide.
You can read the Sunday Mail story here: Pavlich: I want to come home
The easiest way for the Crows to get Pavlich is to finish last in 2007, Pavlich is out of contract and the Crows use the first pick in the preseason draft to take him. But that is not going to happen. So what would it take for the Crows to trade for Pavlich?
The following, very improbable, scenarios depend on Pavlich not signing an extension during season 2007, and telling the Dockers that they trade him or else he goes in the preseason draft:
1) Adelaide send three first round picks, including two top ten picks, to the Dockers.
Pavlich is worth more than the top overall pick, but maybe three first round picks might get the Dockers interested. The Crows would have to acquire two high draft picks, but they do have Victorian talent they could use to trade with the Melbourne clubs for draft picks. The Dockers would not add a big salary with this trade, and that could help them sign their other stars too.
2) Adelaide trade their first and second round picks, Trent Hentschel and Nathan Van Berlo.
If the Crows can’t get extra picks then for a start they will have to offer the Dockers their first two draft picks. The Dockers may have an interest in Van Berlo who is from West Perth. The Dockers will want a forward if they trade Pavlich, Hentschel may come back from his injury and be a very good player. Perrie would be a healthier option and is another former WA player, but he is older than Hentschel and he doesn’t have the upside that Hentschel does.
3) Adelaide trade their first round pick, Richard Douglas, John Meesen and Luke Jericho. Douglas and Meesen were high draft picks, and would give the Dockers a young onballer and a backup for Sandilands. Jericho is a forward who has not found a spot with the Crows but he has solid skills.
It would be one of the biggest AFL trades of all time, and if the Dockers don’t get to the grand final this season and they don’t extend Pavlich before trade week then Crows' fans might see this as a possibility next October.
The Blues of today, and the players who were there in 1992.
A look at players who were in some small way similar to what the club has now, these are not direct player comparisons as there were plenty of players who were unique, one-of-a-kind stars. A fun test to see how many players were memorable from the past team, and how many have been forgotten about.
Carlton 2007 and 1992:
Cain Ackland - Jamie Dunlop
Undersized.
Joe Anderson - Ian Herman
Only three letters in their first name.
Mark Austin - Luke O'Sullivan
Both had injury problems.
Jordan Bannister - Mark Athorn
Defensive journeyman player.
Clinton Benjamin - David Glascott
Good run and versatility.
Adam Bentick - Chris Bond
Midfielder who can shut down an opponent.
Eddie Betts - Brent Heaver
Very small forward.
Luke Blackwell - Brett Ratten
Effective onballer.
Paul Bower - Ian Aitken
Hard-working defender.
Andrew Carrazzo - Matthew Hogg
Little hustle player.
Cameron Cloke - David Kernahan
Not the most famous member of their family.
Jake Edwards - Tim Rieniets
Can fill a spot forward or back if he gets the chance.
Brendan Fevola - Jon Dorotich
Controversial forward.
Bradley Fisher - Rohan Welsh
Can play the third forward spot, or down back, but numerous injuries.
Craig Flint - Darren Tarczon
Medium-sized player not close to senior side selection.
Bryce Gibbs - Craig Bradley
South Australian star.
Shaun Grigg - Mil Hanna
Versatile player who can star on a wing or score a goal up forward.
Shaun Hampson - Justin Madden
Tall.
Adam Hartlett - Adrian Bassett
Tall defender who doesn't play very much.
Ryan Houlihan - Tommy Alvin
Run from the back line.
Josh Kennedy - Stephen Kernahan
Important centre half forward.
Anthony Koutoufides - Anthony Koutoufides
He was on the list 15 years ago.
Matthew Lappin - Mark Arceri
Small.
Dylan McLaren - Andrew Cavedon
Undersized ruckman or slow forward.
Marc Murphy - Adrian Gleeson
Little midfielder who keeps running and getting the ball.
Setanta O'hAilpin - Stephen Silvagni
Strong full back.
Anthony Raso - Simon Verbeek
Goal kicking prospect.
Jordan Russell - Brett Sholl
Not getting a regular game.
Jason Saddington - David Rhys-Jones
Former Sydney defender.
Heath Scotland - Greg Williams
Lots of possessions.
Kade Simpson - Ron De Iulio
Pace and enthusiasm.
Nick Stevens - Fraser Brown
Important midfielder.
David Teague - Peter Dean
Plays much bigger than their listed height.
Bret Thornton - Michael Sexton
Dependable tall defender.
Jarrad Waite - James Cook
Forward who hasn't found the right position among the tall options there.
Andrew Walker - Ang Christou
Run with dash from the back half.
Lance Whitnall - Earl Spalding
Strong-bodied key position player.
Simon Wiggins - Stephen Oliver
Forward who doesn't play a lot.
Nathan Van Berlo: Than A Nonverbal
His actions speak louder than his words.
Richard Vandenberg: Grand Bench Arrived
The anagram has spoken, don't expect to see him get a lot of playing time.
Travis Varcoe: Caviar Voters
He is playing at Geelong, who do seem to have a lot of politicians in their crowd.
Bernie Vince: Beer Inn Vice
Not as good as Miami Vice.
Luke Vogels: Evoke Gulls
Could be playing for Williamstown in the future.
Brett Voss: Robs TV Set
There have been a few bad apples at St Kilda, Voss isn't usually one of them.
Lewis Roberts-Thomson is expected to miss the first month of the regular season due to a foot injury.
Click the link to read the story from The Age newspaper. Swans lose injured defender for start
AFL Fantasy Impact:
Lewis Roberts-Thomson wasn’t going to have a big impact in AFL fantasy leagues, he is a defensive player and does not accumulate a lot of statistics. But everything that happens in the AFL affects fantasy numbers and with Lewis Roberts-Thomson out it will mean a spot opens up in the Swans’ back half. They still have Barry, Bolton, Richards and Kennelly who can play on tall/medium forwards. But another player they might give a bigger role to is Sean Dempster. He could be a good player to add to AFL fantasy teams at the start of the AFL season, he is usually a back in AFL fantasy leagues but he can fill numerous spots on the field for Coach Roos. A taller option for the Swans could be Heath Grundy while Paul Bevan is a chance if they want a smaller player.
There is just over a month to go before the SuperCoach AFL fantasy competition is to begin. Using the statistics, estimated values and the rules of SuperCoach a preview of a possible fantasy lineup will be posted.
A possible bench group.
Jesse Smith: Could be among the cheapest players, so a no-risk but possible high-reward signing. If he is playing in the first month of the season his fantasy value will go way up, and if he is unable to play then you just swap him for another low-cost player.
Beau Dowler: Might be eligible to be played as a fantasy backman but could be playing forward for Hawthorn. Should not cost a lot to sign.
Xavier Ellis: Will be a much sought after player in fantasy, so get him early. Has the experience of a year on a list in the AFL, but won't cost much to sign for AFL fantasy.
Travis Boak: The Power overlooked some big names in the draft to take Boak with their first rounder so they really wanted him. Smaller players who were high draft picks like Boak, or Selwood, could have seasons similar to what Marc Murphy had last season.
John Meesen: Could be a steal as his price should be low as he hasn't played yet. The Crows will play a couple of ruckmen and Meesen is a chance to play a lot in 2007. Just one more injury to a ruckman there and Meesen could be their starter.
Matthew Leuenberger: Check the NAB Cup games, and the status of Charman and Wood, before signing Leuenberger. But there is a chance he gets some time as a forward as well as a ruckman. But it might take an injury to a Brisbane tall for him to play a lot.
Tom Hawkins: With his stress injury he may not be ready for the start of the season, but it's Hawkins and every fantasy team will benefit from him at some time during the season.
Ryan Gamble: A bit of a risk, or even a gamble, but he might be available at a low price and he does have good potential. The Cats need to try some new things and Gamble could find a spot on the wing or in the forward line. But for most of the lower-cost players like Gamble, the NAB Cup games will give people an idea as to how likely it is that they will be playing AFL in round 1.
B D Mundy
B L Whitnall
B B Goddard
B C Cornes
B L Hodge
B A Proud
B L Hansen
C C Judd
C A Goodes
C S Thompson
C B Gibbs
R D Cox
R D Hille
R R Campbell
R D Petrie
F M Pavlich
F B Hall
F N Riewoldt
F C Bruce
F S Rusling
F N Ablett
F J Riewoldt
bench
B J Smith
B B Dowler
C X Ellis
C T Boak
R J Meesen
R M Leuenberger
F T Hawkins
F R Gamble
That is a possible SuperCoach lineup, when the prices and player positions are released another idea for a team will be posted, along with other strategies and lists of bargain players. For this preview of a team, star players are balanced by the lower-cost first year players. Right now there are some injury concerns over a few of the players, but if Nick Riewoldt is hurt then Gehrig or Lloyd could be signed. Hawkins and Smith could miss the start of the year, if that is confirmed in the coming weeks then other minimum-cost players like Urquhart, Grigg or Thorp would be options.
The Lions of today, and the Bears players who were there in 1992.
A look at players who were in some small way similar to what the club has now, these are not direct player comparisons as there were plenty of players who were unique, one-of-a-kind stars. A fun test to see how many players were memorable from the past team, and how many have been forgotten about.
Brisbane 2007 and 1992:
Jed Adcock - Brendon Retzlaff
Defender/midfielder.
Marcus Allan - Matthew Ahmat
Very short midfield prospect.
Simon Black - David Bain
A midfield leader.
Daniel Bradshaw - Scott McIvor
Versatile tall player.
Jared Brennan - Darryl White
Athlete without a real defined AFL position.
Jonathan Brown - Roger Merrett
Big forward that is not to be messed with.
Jamie Charman - Clark Keating
Big, physical ruckman.
Mitchell Clark - Richard Champion
Good tall.
Robert Copeland - Russell Jeffrey
Useful player that a coach can put into different spots.
Josh Drummond - Matthew Campbell
188cm players who can fill a number of roles.
Ben Fixter - Peter Worsfold
Useful defender.
Pat Garner - Ray Windsor
Key position player.
Richard Hadley - David Cameron
Versatile player.
Scott Harding - Adam Kerinaiua
Small who doesn't play.
James Hawksley - Nigel Palfryman
Running half back flanker.
Rhan Hooper - Matthew Ryan
Small runner.
Chris Johnson - Troy Clarke
Small player but very important.
Nigel Lappin - Mark Zanotti
Dash from the back.
Matthew Leuenberger - Matthew Clarke
Very tall ruckman.
Joel Macdonald - Ashley Green
Versatile medium-sized player.
Beau McDonald - Brent Green
Tall and long.
Ashley McGrath - Colin Alexander
Small who knows where the goals are.
Daniel Merrett - Matthew Kennedy
Big body that can contest forward or back.
Wayde Mills - Peter Curran
Tall with skills.
Matthew Moody - Shane Hamilton
Small/medium player who can kick goals and get the ball.
Tim Notting - Danny Noonan
Mid-sized player with ability.
Joel Patfull - Rudi Frigo
Solid but unspectacular tall forward.
Luke Power - Marcus Ashcroft
Midfield star.
Albert Proud - Michael McLean
Plenty of run from the back line through the midfield.
Michael Rischitelli - Craig Potter
Solid midfielder.
Jason Roe - Martin Leslie
Underappreciated backman.
Chris Schmidt - John Hutton
Small/medium forward option.
Christopher Scott - John Gastev
Defender who takes on big jobs.
Troy Selwood - Shaun Hart
Tough midfielder.
Sam Sheldon - Rod Owen
St Kilda connection.
Justin Sherman - Michael Voss
Strong midfielder.
Cheynee Stiller - Steven McLuckie
Very small but a fan favourite.
Matt Tyler - Simon Luhrs
Key position prospect.
Cameron Wood - Matt Rendell
Extremely large ruckman.
Adelaide 2007 and 1992
Richard Tambling: Hard Climb Rating
The Tigers' players are getting rated on everything they do for preseason, Tambling has been one of the best.
Chris Tarrant: Ran Rich Start
Should have a good start to the season with the Dockers.
Simon Taylor: Almost Irony
He was bound for the VFL, until Bailey got hurt, almost ironic but probably isn't.
David Teague: Give Due Data
Maybe the coach asked Teague what he thought, he gave the data that was due and the coach didn't like it.
Kane Tenace: Cane At Knee
Plenty of injuries to Geelong players, but they haven't had this problem.
Dale Thomas: Ashamed Lot
Those that questioned why Collingwood drafted Thomas so early are now ashamed at what they thought.
Matt Thomas: At Most Math
That anagram doesn't add up.
Andrew Thompson: Phantom Wonders
Not only does The Ghost Who Walks wonder how Thompson is still there at his age, but plenty of Saints fans do too.
Nathan Thompson: Than Non-stop Ham
Shouldn't use the term non-stop, Thompson will need a rest.
Scott Thompson: Top Costs Month
Will be one of the players leading the Crows into September.
Adam Thomson: Shoot Madman
Often the best strategy.
Ashley Thornton: Then Only A Short
Not really a tall, so then only play him on a short.
Bret Thornton: Not Rent Broth
He is one person at Carlton who has the money so he doesn't have to rent.
Kristin Thornton: Stink In North Rot
If he was on the Kangaroos list he might be getting a game.
Scott Thornton: Notch Ton Trots
He won't be kicking 100 goals.
Josh Thurgood: Do Rush Hot Jog
Always a hard worker during preseason.
Will Thursfield: Drills With Fuel
Could have a big year, he is fuelled-up and ready to go, may not be drilling too many goals though.
Toby Thurstans: Hot Nasty Burst
Don't get in the way of Toby.
Stephen Tiller: Tell The Sniper
Plenty of other Bulldogs are better kicks for goal than him.
Greg Tivendale: Even Glad Tiger
Is happy to be a Richmond Tiger.
Alan Toovey: Toe Any Oval
Plays on a lot of ovals, from Williamstown to Bendigo.
Jason Torney: Not Near Joys
Can't get to the AFL Grand Final.
Warren Tredrea: Net Rare Reward
Lead the Power to their only cup so far.
David Trotter: Avert DDT Riot
Could learn a thing or two from Jake "The Snake" Roberts.
Shane Tuck: Cheat Sunk
You can't break the rules and think you can get away with it when playing against Tuck.
Travis Tuck: Truck Vista
If he was a truck he is still in the parking lot.
Backs: Antoni Grover, Rodger Hayden, Graham Johncock, Chris Johnson, Nathan Lovett-Murray, Andrew McLeod, Byron Pickett, Darryl White, David Wirrpanda
Midfielders: Chance Bateman, Peter Burgoyne, Shaun Burgoyne, Xavier Clarke, Troy Cook, Daniel Motlop, Danyle Pearce, Richard Tambling
Forwards: Eddie Betts, Aaron Davey, Chris Egan, Jeff Farmer, Lance Franklin, Des Headland, Andrew Krakouer, Andrew Lovett, Michael O’Loughlin, Matthew Stokes, Mark Williams
Ruckmen: Adam Goodes, Patrick Ryder
There is only a week to go until the All Stars play the Bombers in Darwin.
Important Outs:
S Rocca, T Makepeace, J Perry
Important Ins:
L Hansen, G Urquhart, L Thomas, B Ross, A Edwards, T Goldstein
Injury News:
Jesse Smith (ankle, could miss a few regular season games)
Fantasy Stars:
Simpson and Grant have been preparing for this season for a long time, they were shut down late in the 2006 season, so those two players should be fresh and ready and two of the Kangaroos' best for AFL fantasy. Other midfield options from the Kangaroos are Sinclair, Wells, Harris, Jones, Harvey and Rawlings. Petrie was certainly a player last year who changed from an average fantasy player to often one of the best. Last year he was position eligible for the ruck and forward, but for a lot of the season he played around half back for the Kangaroos and dominated in fantasy statistics.
Possible Fantasy Stars:
Nathan Thompson isn't a big star in AFL fantasy, a useful player but don't overpay.
Daniel McConnell could be a sleeper among AFL fantasy players and he might be a bargain that has a big year.
David Hale is expected to make the move from the ruck to a permanent position in the forward line, this could improve his fantasy numbers.
Archer is a solid player for stats when he plays.
Pratt can be useful to a fantasy team, he usually isn't very expensive for the stats he gets.
Brown might have a role in the middle this season, that could make him a surprising fantasy star.
Possible Fantasy Sleeper:
Aaron Edwards. The Kangaroos need goals and Edwards kicked 100 of them last season. He might be among the cheapest players in AFL fantasy leagues so sign him up. There is no Rocca now or Harding, those two players combined for 42 goals last season, and Edwards should find a role as the leading player from the goal square.
First Year Players For AFL Fantasy:
The Kangaroos could provide 3 or 4 fantasy stars from their first year players. Hansen will be on a lot of fantasy teams, he will get a lot of stats and his fantasy value will just keep going up. Urquhart may also see a good amount of playing time, watch to see what his role is when he makes his debut in 2007. Urquhart was picked ahead of many highly-rated players so the Kangaroos really wanted him so it makes sense that they play him early. Lindsay Thomas has something the Kangaroos need, pace, so he might find his way into the team. The Kangaroos have a few tall forwards but they need someone smaller around them, that could be the spot that Ben Ross gets. Ross won't get a huge amount of stats in a forward pocket, but at the cheapest price in fantasy he is still a bargain if the Kangaroos do play him.
There is just over a month to go before the SuperCoach AFL fantasy competition is to begin. Using the statistics, estimated values and the rules of SuperCoach a preview of a possible fantasy lineup will be posted.
A possible starting forward line.
Matthew Pavlich: One of the best in the AFL and is up the top for fantasy points too. Tarrant isn't expected to be played too close, so the forward line should be open with Pavlich the focal point. Goals, contested marks, lots of possessions for a key position player, Pavlich can get stats in many different categories.
Barry Hall: Adding Everitt should not hurt his stats so Hall should continue to be an elite AFL fantasy forward. He doesn't just mark and goal, he is a very good passer of the ball and even enjoys a tackle, that all adds up to a lot of fantasy points.
Nick Riewoldt: Should continue to be one of the best fantasy players who plays a key position. All players are a risk in fantasy when it comes to injuries, so no need to avoid Riewoldt after his minor hamstring strain.
Cameron Bruce: His fantasy price goes up and down a bit so he could be one of the higher priced players or he could be a bit cheaper and more affordable. Has plenty of the ball and uses it well, he also can kick goals so he gets fantasy points in many areas.
Sean Rusling: Fantasy steals are the players who suddenly have a much bigger role with more playing time and statistics, Rusling had some good games last season and now the Magpies are without Tarrant. Rusling should be a big improver, and a player whose fantasy value will go up.
Nathan Ablett: If you are going to sign the younger Ablett then get him early as there will be no Steve Johnson for the first month or so and Hawkins may not be ready to go too. This could be the season when N Ablett really establishes himself so if you get him early your fantasy team will get the benefits.
Jack Riewoldt: This will depend on his NAB Cup form as well as how much money is left to spend under the fantasy team salary cap. If you have more money left when putting together your team you can go with a more expensive veteran option. But if there is only room for a minimum-cost player then J Riewoldt might be a good buy, Kingsley and Schulz are not having the best preseason so far and J Riewoldt might be a better player than them anyway. He has already played VFL football so the Tigers shouldn't have any problem with putting him on the field for round 1.
B D Mundy
B L Whitnall
B B Goddard
B C Cornes
B L Hodge
B A Proud
B L Hansen
C C Judd
C A Goodes
C S Thompson
C B Gibbs
R D Cox
R D Hille
R R Campbell
R D Petrie
F M Pavlich
F B Hall
F N Riewoldt
F C Bruce
F S Rusling
F N Ablett
F J Riewoldt
Seems to be something topical in the AFL at the moment, and if you want to compare the current Carlton to a time of the past it is possible.
CARLTON FC..1989 ANNUAL REPORT AND BALANCE SHEET
But you can go back a lot more than that, as the Carlton internet site has the Annual Report and Balance Sheet for 1906.
Owing to the dashing play of the team, and to the successful management, the membership has, as a natural corollary, increased greatly, numbering, all told, the satisfactory total of 2811, an increase of 316 from the previous season. The list is as follows: Members 2447, Ladies and Boys, 364. The membership is an easy record so far as the Club is concerned, the increase during the last five years being simply extraordinary, amounting to no less a number than 2339. “There’s nothing succeeds like success.
The finances of the Club are in a highly satisfactory condition, especially when it is taken into consideration that the Ground Committee received the large amount of £729, and the players were given a trip to Sydney, besides numerous social entertainments. There is a credit balance of £34 7s. 8d.
Annual Report and Balance Sheet for Season 1906
But there is plenty of other Carlton action in the auctions, and if you are a fan of Vin Catoggio then buy his football card.
VFL 1980 Carlton's Vin Catoggio TRADING CARD
The Crows of today, and the players who were there in 1992.
A look at players who were in some small way similar to what the club has now, these are not direct player comparisons as there were plenty of players who were unique, one-of-a-kind stars. A fun test to see how many players were memorable from the past team, and how many have been forgotten about.
Adelaide 2007 and 1992:
Nathan Bassett - Nigel Smart
Defender who gets a lot of the ball.
Rhett Biglands - David Pittman
Big, solid ruckman.
Nathan Bock - Anthony Ingerson
Capable backman but can also go forward if needed.
Matthew Bode - Matthew Liptak
Effective small forward.
Brett Burton - Tony Modra
They can jump.
Bryce Campbell - Darel Hart
Small onballer.
Michael Doughty - Andrew Jarman
Plenty of handballs.
Richard Douglas - Grantley Fielke
Small but useful.
Tyson Edwards - Eddie Hocking
A couple of little guys.
Nick Gill - John Klug
Prefer one syllable names, and can kick a goal.
Simon Goodwin - Chris McDermott
Huge numbers of disposals.
Jonathon Griffin - Paul Patterson
Some big prospects.
Trent Hentschel - Rod Jameson
Can play a big spot at either end, but sore knees.
John Hinge - Matthew Kelly
Unknown medium-sized player.
Benjamin Hudson - Shaun Rehn
Ruckman with knee injuries.
Luke Jericho - Michael Murphy
Talented medium forward who doesn't get into many games.
Graham Johncock - Scott Lee
Lots of possessions.
Chris Knights - Stephen Rowe
Solid small player.
David MacKay - Andrew Payze
Small midfielder.
Ivan Maric - Romano Negri
Big ruckman.
Kris Massie - Brenton Sanderson
Journeyman.
Martin Mattner - Ben Hart
A lot of possessions for a player who can play in a defensive spot.
Ken McGregor - Jonathon Ross
Big key position player.
Andrew McLeod - Tony McGuinness
Prolific kick-winner.
John Meesen - Mark Mickan
Huge ruckman.
Ian Perrie - Peter McIntyre
Goal-kicking tall.
Darren Pfeiffer - David Marshall
Small forward.
Jason Porplyzia - David Brown
Talented smaller player.
Brent Reilly - Steven Schwerdt
Underrated onballer.
Mark Ricciuto - Wayne Weidemann
The crowd in Adelaide have a couple of fan favourites, the 'Roo' and the 'Weed'.
Ben Rutten - Rodney Maynard
Solid defender.
James Sellar - Paul Rouvray
Key position prospect.
Robert Shirley - Mark Bickley
Important midfielder.
Scott Stevens - Darren Smith
Key position size for either end.
Scott Thompson - Bruce Abernethy
Small who gets the ball and can kick a goal.
Kurt Tippett - Randall Bone
Big, huge, gigantic forward.
Jason Torney - Sean Tasker
Useful medium defender.
Nathan van Berlo - Bruce Lindner
Can play on the wing as well as other spots.
Bernie Vince - Simon Tregenza
Run through the middle.
Scott Welsh - Scott Hodges
Full forward.
Check back here for the next two weeks as a total of 15 teams are looked at.
More Posts
2162 Posts dating from January 2006
Email Subscription
Receive e-mail notifications of new posts on this blog:
Add Comments
Comments (2)