The Herald Sun newspaper has released a set of AFL cards. You get an album to display all of the regular cards and random insert cards are present in some packs, including signature cards. If you have been saving the coupons you can still order the packs you need next week.
Here is a selection of the regular cards.
The insert cards will be the big collector items, with the autographed cards being the most sought after.
More information is available at the official site for Footy 2007.
It was a game with a great goal, Robertson’s, and if White had held onto the ball it would have been a magnificent mark. The Saints won and their coaching change worked, and even the recruitment of a “retired” ruckman was a positive.
Saints 93 - Demons 62
Fantasy Player News
St Kilda
Koschitzke: That was a very good game, and he should keep getting better. There is still time to sign him up.
Gehrig: Gehrig dominated, but imagine his fantasy points if he kicked the goals instead of hitting the post.
Fiora: He had a big game, expect his fantasy price to go up if he is consistent.
Montagna: The new coach has given him a big role, his fantasy points will be high and he led the Saints in kicks and tackles for this game.
Goddard: Fantasy coaches might have been worried when he went forward, but he kicked a goal and had some possessions and then moved back later in the game which brought in more possessions in the second half.
Harvey: Found his usual space and had lots of kicks and goals.
X Clarke: Another player to consider signing, he had a big game.
Melbourne
McLean: Brock injured his ankle in the first half and the Demons will have to wait to see how serious the injury is.
Moloney: He played great for total stats, fantasy coaches might want to sign him up.
Holland: He had plenty of handballs in the back line, an unexpected fantasy points outburst.
Whelan: Was injured in the incident with Ball.
C Johnson: In the second half he brought in a lot of fantasy points, had a bad first half.
These two young stars will forever be linked by the 2006 AFL National Draft. They will always be compared to each other and for the next 22 rounds, assuming they both keep playing in the senior teams, their progress will be monitored and their games will be judged.
Not only the statistics, but the big plays they make and how they help their teams win will be looked at. A winner for each round will also be announced.
As each of their teams is missing a special "K" player, Koutoufides and Kelly, both Gibbs and Selwood have a chance in the early rounds for plenty of playing time.
Both of these young players are similar, but different. While both players could have been competing against much older footballers for the past couple of years, only Gibbs was able to. Both will be great midfielders, Gibbs is a bit taller and Selwood is a bit heavier. Gibbs has already be named as part of Carlton's leadership group, Selwood is a future Geelong captain. Both players will also have a number 4 on their back, but with Joel Selwood there will also be the number 1 as his number is 14. Gibbs and Selwood have also been prepared for AFL careers by their families, Gibbs was able to learn from his father and also his pal Kernahan while Joel Selwood had Adam and Troy to watch.
At the end of the season the winning rounds for each player will be added up, and possibly it could show who the winner of the Rising Star award will be.
Gibbs will play his first AFL game against Richmond, and Selwood has been named in the Geelong team that plays the Bulldogs.
This could be a story throughout the season of how not to run a fantasy team. Or the players below may be ones to avoid, as many who were selected in 2006 didn't make it through the season as injuries hit hard. For 22 weeks you can follow the small ups and big downs of this SuperCoach AFL fantasy team.
B David Mundy
B Daniel Pratt
B Andrew Raines
B Grant Birchall
B Graham Polak
B Sean Dempster
B Justin Koschitzke
C Sam Mitchell (captain)
C Luke Hodge
C Steven Salopek
C Paul Hasleby
C Marc Murphy
C Jordan Lewis
R Dean Cox
R Ben Hudson
F Jonathan Brown
F Barry Hall
F Chad Cornes
F Corey Jones
F Gary Ablett
F Jarrad Waite
F Lance Franklin
B Xavier Ellis (emergency)
B Matt Riggio
C Joel Selwood
C Lindsay Thomas (emergency)
R Jonathan Griffin
R Brent Renouf
F Alwyn Davey (emergency)
F Matthew Campbell
The back line will either be the weak link or the position that provides the greatest increase in player values. If Koschitzke is healthy, if Dempster stays off the bench for the Swans and if Polak does become a big-marking centre half back for the Tigers then the fantasy team will be much stronger than expected. Birchall could bring in the most stats for the defenders.
Selwood and Thomas got the bench spot ahead of players like Gibbs and Browne for the midfield. Mitchell and Hodge should be the guaranteed fantasy stars. The other four starters are all capable of having better numbers this year than they did in 2007.
Cox is a great player so no problem there. Hudson has not played in a long time but he could be a big mover when it comes to fantasy price and his stats should be solid. If Hudson does miss then his backup, Griffin, is also available to fill his spot.
Brown could be the best player in fantasy games. Hall and C Cornes should not be far behind for fantasy points. Corey Jones and Gary Ablett are smaller forward/midfield players who can combine lots of disposals and goals. Franklin seemed to have a low fantasy price so he made the team while Waite, who is expected to be played as a defender by Carlton, also could be a good player with a cheap fantasy price. Campbell wasn't just a money saver on the forwards bench, despite having the lowest price in fantasy he showed in the preseason that he can kick goals. Alwyn Davey is another player who has experience in another league and he could contribute earlier than other new AFL players.
Brown will probably be captain for most of the season, but Mitchell got the job this game, as Brown is still not in top game shape.
Melbourne vs St Kilda
The Tip: Melbourne by 17 points.
Best-On-Ground Guess: Cameron Bruce
Chance For An Upset: There is always the stat about teams winning their first game with a new coach, although that often applies to teams that fire a coach in the middle of the season. The Saints have some big stars back so they are a chance for the win.
Melbourne
They win if....Jeff White jumps over everyone and also runs away from the slower Saints ruckmen and scores a couple of goals.
They lose if...they forget how good Hayes is.
The Good News: Moloney is back.
The Bad News: Rivers isn't ready yet.
St Kilda
They win if....M Clarke knows where his onabllers are, or his onballers know where Clarke will tap the ball.
They lose if...Nobody can step up and battle big Neitz.
The Good News: Hayes, Koschitzke and Maguire are playing.
The Bad News: Riewoldt could have been the difference.
Kangaroos vs Collingwood
The Tip: Collingwood by 11 points
Best-On-Ground Guess: Anthony Rocca
Chance For An Upset: While the Kangaroos look a bit small, it could give them the chance to run and in preseason when the Kangaroos got going they were hard to stop.
Kangaroos
They win if....Petrie dominates the back line and they get some unexpected goals from someone like Hansen.
They lose if...they don't contain Josh Fraser, in the ruck and in the forward line.
The Good News: Matthew Campbell, just elevated from the rookie list, gives them a quick forward who can kick goals.
The Bad News: They are without Thompson, Harding and Rocca and they kicked most of their goals in 2006.
Collingwood
They win if....the Kangaroos are not able to combat the height of Fraser, Rocca and Cloke.
They lose if...they allow space to Grant and Harvey and the two veterans score goals.
The Good News: Fraser has extra help this season and will hurt teams when he goes forward.
The Bad News: With Buckley and Didak playing this could have been a guaranteed win.
Fremantle vs Port Adelaide
The Tip: Fremantle by 30 points
Best-On-Ground Guess: Paul Hasleby
Chance For An Upset: The Power are one of the teams that can compete against Sandilands in the ruck, they also have the speed which will challenge the Dockers' midfield pace.
Fremantle
They win if....Pavlich and Tarrant control the air.
They lose if...they allow Lade to go forward and kick goals.
The Good News: They are favourites for the 2007 season.
The Bad News: Michael Johnson and Jeff Farmer would have been useful inclusions if not suspended.
Port Adelaide
They win if....their quick midfielders are able to exploit the Dockers' slower players.
They lose if...they don't have someone stand up and kick 4 or 5 goals.
The Good News: They had a really good preseason and discovered some players who are ready to be stars.
The Bad News: Tredrea is out.
Brisbane vs Hawthorn
The Tip: Brisbane by 7 points
Best-On-Ground Guess: Jason Roe
Chance For An Upset: The Hawks match up very well with the Lions, they have the ruck combo to battle the Lions' big guys and while the midfield for Hawthorn is younger it has enough talent to compete against Black and Power.
Brisbane
They win if....Brown kicks goals.
They lose if...Brown is contained and no other Lions step up and kick goals now that Bradshaw is out.
The Good News: They got to the NAB Cup Grand Final, and now have a returning Nigel Lappin to bolster their team.
The Bad News: Bradshaw will be missed.
Hawthorn
They win if....one of Franklin, Roughead or Boyle can kick a goal a quarter.
They lose if...they don't stop Black and Power.
The Good News: The Hawks are playing better than they have in a long time.
The Bad News: Suspensions mean that Crawford and Brown miss this game.
Sydney vs West Coast
The Tip: Sydney by 29 points.
Best-On-Ground Guess: Nic Fosdike
Chance For An Upset: West Coast won last time they played, so of course they can win. While the Eagles are without several key players, and the Swans now have Everitt, the Eagles can win if they find a few more goals.
Sydney
They win if....they slow down Judd.
They lose if...big Lynch dominates against the smaller Swans' defenders.
The Good News: Everitt fixes a lot of their problems.
The Bad News: The extra run of Schneider would have been an asset.
West Coast
They win if....Cox gives his team first use of the ball.
They lose if...they don't have the size if the Swans have Hall, O'Loughlin, Everitt and Vogels up forward.
The Good News: Most of their 2006 AFL Premiership side is playing in this game.
The Bad News: The players from the 2006 AFL Premiership side who are not available for this game are very important.
Adelaide vs Essendon
The Tip: Adelaide by 11 points.
Best-On-Ground Guess: Michael Doughty
Chance For An Upset: Essendon have a lot of tall forwards and the Crows may not be able to cover all of them. This is a much better team than Essendon had last season and they should not be underestimated.
Adelaide
They win if....they get goals from Bock, Perrie and Welsh.
They lose if...players don't get physical as the Crows will miss the immense presence of Ricciuto.
The Good News: Ben Hudson returns to action after a long injury absence.
The Bad News: The Crows have a very long injured list.
Essendon
They win if....they get enough of the ball to their tall forwards.
They lose if...they don't stop the run that the Crows' defenders provide.
The Good News: The team is loaded with veteran stars, including Mal Michael who plays his first game for Essendon.
The Bad News: Jason Johnson won't be available for this game.
Western Bulldogs vs Geelong
The Tip: Western Bulldogs by 21 points.
Best-On-Ground Guess: Daniel Cross
Chance For An Upset: There isn't a lot separating these two teams. If Ottens is in good form the Bulldogs don't have anyone at his size to stop him.
Western Bulldogs
They win if....they outrun the Cats.
They lose if...Ottens and Mooney are able to go one-on-one with their defenders.
The Good News: Akermanis, a great new addition. The return of Darcy and Murphy is also very important.
The Bad News: Grant and Harris are out, so they are a bit short at the back.
Geelong
They win if....players like Wojcinski and Byrnes can beat the Bulldogs at their own game.
They lose if...they struggle in the ruck without King.
The Good News: Selwood should debut.
The Bad News: The Cats, and their coach, need to start the year off well, but they play one of the best teams in their first match.
Richmond vs Carlton
The Tip: Richmond by 5 points.
Best-On-Ground Guess: Brett Deledio
Chance For An Upset: After their NAB Cup run the Blues are favourites for this game, whoever wins it could be close.
Richmond
They win if....Richardson explodes and kicks a big bag of goals.
They lose if...they don't get a good game from their full back.
The Good News: Polak gives them some more size, their midfield is a bit older than much of Carlton's onball group, as player like Deledio and Tamlbing have a few more years than Murphy and Gibbs.
The Bad News: Simmonds could have dominated against the Carlton ruckmen, he is out injured. Brown was named but won't be available because of his leg.
Carlton
They win if....Waite can cut off the supply to Richardson.
They lose if...Pattison, and maybe Knobel, can exploit a height advantage in the ruck.
The Good News: They have a preseason trophy, lots of money now and top draft picks Gibbs and Murphy.
The Bad News: Ackland and Cloke are short, for ruckmen.
There is a link on the front page of afl.com.au that will take you to their tipping competition. Fill in your name and password, and income level if you want to, and put in your selections for the games.
Link for the AFL tipping game
The ABC won’t be joining in the tipping fun for the AFL, but according to their site you should visit them in 12 months.
Tipping comp - important notice
Nathan Brown had a big preseason but with his leg troubling him again he will miss round 1, and possibly another week too.
News from the Herald Sun newspaper: Leg blow for Tiger Brown
AFL Fantasy Impact:
Richmond’s N Brown was a fantasy sleeper when the fantasy prices were announced. With his preseason form he was going to be a good player to sign, and many people did sign him up. Luckily for fantasy coaches the late withdrawal was mentioned early so fantasy teams can be adjusted. Two players to consider are his Richmond teammates, Pettifer and Krakouer. One of Collingwood’s forwards, Thomas or Medhurst, is at a similar price to Brown. Jared Brennan, Brad Miller, Andrew McDougall and Lance Franklin are more options. In the short term, Richmond’s Pattison or Schulz might be solid fantasy players. An idea could be to play Pattison, as a fantasy forward, for a couple of weeks and then when Simmonds returns it could also be when Nathan Brown is ready to go and Pattison could be traded for Brown.
Below are just some of the AFL players who would have been playing in round 1 if they were healthy. There are even more players out with suspension, and miscellaneous reasons too. A lot of the players in the two teams below will be playing in the upcoming weeks.
FB Richard Vandenberg, Chris Grant, Mark Nicoski
HB Sam Butler, Jared Rivers, Adam Schneider
C Peter Burgoyne, Jason Johnson, Byron Schammer
HF Warren Tredrea, Nick Riewoldt, Nathan Thompson
FF Alan Didak, Daniel Bradshaw, Mark Ricciuto
Foll Steven King, Nathan Buckley, Anthony Koutoufides
bench Troy Simmonds, Nathan G Brown, Ashley Hansen, Trent Hentschel
FB Josh Gibson, Lewis Roberts-Thomson, Jesse Smith
HB Max Rooke, Ken McGregor, Joel Smith
C Raphael Clarke, Chad Fletcher, Paul Bevan
HF Leigh Harding, Lynden Dunn, Mitchell Hahn
FF Sean Rusling, Kent Kingsley, Aaron Hamill
Foll Rhett Biglands, Mark Coughlan, Jared Crouch
bench Max Bailey, Ray Hall, Michael Gardiner, Scott Camporeale
Melbourne vs St Kilda
Melbourne
FB: Carroll, Holland, Whelan
HB: Ward, Miller, Bell
C: Johnstone, McDonald, Bate
HF: Bruce, Robertson, Yze
FF: C.Johnson, Neitz, Davey
Foll: White, Green, McLean
bench: Jamar, Jones, Moloney, Bartram
emergency: Bizzell, Brown, P.Johnson
AFL Fantasy Watch:
The Demons are going a bit small, due to injuries and also possibly the conditions. Those wanting to try Brad Miller in fantasy teams should play him now, with Rivers and Dunn injured and Bizzell and Paul Johnson only emergencies. Chris Johnson had a good NAB Cup game and if he plays well his price will go up. Brent Moloney returns to action and those who sign him early could see fantasy points and a price increase.
St Kilda
FB: Baker, S.Fisher, Goddard
HB: Gram, Maguire, L.Fisher
C: Thompson, Ball, Montagna
HF: Harvey, Koschitzke, Blake
FF: Milne, Gehrig, X.Clarke
Foll: M.Clarke, Hayes, Dal Santo
bench: Fiora, McQualter, Rix, Attard
emergency: Birss, Brooks, Voss
AFL Fantasy Watch:
Xavier Clarke could have a big game, and he does have a small fantasy price. Matthew Clarke isn't very good for fantasy numbers, and he will split time with Rix. With Hudghton out it means someone will have to be moved to full back, that would not be helpful to Maguire's fantasy points. Hayes is back again and as it seems he is totally recovered he should be back among the leaders in fantasy games.
Kangaroos vs Collingwood
Kangaroos
FB: Archer, Firrito, Pratt
HB: Riggio, Petrie, Sinclair
C: Rawlings, Harris, Trotter
HF: Campbell, Brown, Hansen
FF: Harvey, Hale, Grant
Foll: McIntosh, Simpson, Wells
bench: Moran, Swallow, Jones, Thomas
emergency: Watt, Sansbury, Edwards
AFL Fantasy Watch:
An interesting lineup, seem a bit short in the back line without Watt. Petrie's fantasy numbers could be halved if he plays on Rocca as the full back. There are plenty of inexpensive new players from the Kangaroos to sign for fantasy teams.
Collingwood
FB: Lockyer, Prestigiacomo, Maxwell
HB: H.Shaw, Clement, Lonie
C: Pendlebury, O'Bree, Johnson
HF: Fraser, Cloke, Licuria
FF: Thomas, Rocca, Medhurst
Foll: Richards, Davis, Burns
bench: Wakelin, O'Brien, R.Shaw, Swan
emergency: Bryan, Nicholls, Toovey
AFL Fantasy Watch:
Medhurst does get to play his first game for Collingwood so he is another option for fantasy teams. Bryan is out and Richards and Cloke are in, Richards doesn't have the game for fantasy points but T Cloke is a chance if he plays the whole game at centre half forward.
Fremantle vs Port Adelaide
Fremantle
FB: Parker, McPharlin, Hayden
HB: Dodd, Grover, Mundy
C: Peake, Hasleby, McManus
HF: Headland, Pavlich, Solomon
FF: Crowley, Tarrant, Longmuir
Foll: Sandilands, J.Carr, Bell
bench: Browne, Duffield, Murphy, Walker
emergency: Dunn, Gilmore, Webster
AFL Fantasy Watch:
Walker and Browne are named after big preseasons, they have low AFL fantasy prices. Grover is named in Michael Johnson's spot, if he can get close to Johnson's stats then he will be Super Grover for fantasy points.
Port Adelaide
FB: Surjan, Wakelin, Chaplin
HB: Wilson, C.Cornes, Lonie
C: N.Krakouer, K.Cornes, Salopek
HF: Ebert, White, Rodan
FF: Pearce, Lade, Pettigrew
Foll: Brogan, S.Burgoyne, Cassisi
bench: Cockshell, Logan, Motlop, Thurstans
emergency: Bentley, Symes, Westoff
AFL Fantasy Watch:
Krakouer is a bit of a surprise, worth a spot on a fantasy bench if you have little money to spend. Rodan and Ebert were expected to provide a few of their goals, but the Power have added more tall forwards than expected. Cockshell is another new player with a bargain fantasy price. Symes, fantasy superstar last season, is only an emergency.
Brisbane vs Hawthorn
Brisbane
FB: Johnson, Merrett, Roe
HB: Adcock, Brennan, Copeland
C: Sherman, Lappin, Stiller
HF: Moody, Brown, Notting
FF: Rischitelli, Charman, McGrath
Foll: Wood, Black, Power
bench: Begley, Fixter, Patfull, Harding
emergency: McDonald, Tyler, Allan
AFL Fantasy Watch:
The Lions are playing two ruckmen, instead of three, so the fantasy potential of Charman and Wood is higher. Copeland doesn't cost too much and is a good option for a cheaper defender in fantasy teams, Nigel Lappin could also help fantasy coaches because if he is close to his usual numbers his fantasy value could double. Lappin's game time could be limited by the Lions as they gradually bring him back.
Hawthorn
FB: Birchall, Croad, Gilham
HB: Guerra, Jacobs, Hodge
C: Ladson, Mitchell, Clarke
HF: Williams, Franklin, Lewis
FF: Osborne, Roughead, Boyle
Foll: Taylor, Sewell, Bateman
bench: Campbell, Ellis, McGlynn, Young
emergency: Dawson, Dixon, Muston
AFL Fantasy Watch:
The Hawks are going to continue their ruck tandem of Taylor and Campbell. Taylor's fantasy value might go up a bit but Campbell won't be as good for fantasy points if they evenly share the ruck minutes. Xavier Ellis will be added to a few fantasy benches now. Danny Jacobs looks to be returning to the position that brought in many fantasy points in early 2006.
Sydney vs West Coast
Sydney
FB: Richards, Barry, Malceski
HB: Kennelly, C.Bolton, Dempster
C: Buchanan, Kirk, McVeigh
HF: R.O'Keefe, O'Loughlin, J.Bolton
FF: Davis, Hall, Mathews
Foll: Everitt, Goodes, Fosdike
bench: Ablett, Jolly, Phillips, Vogels
emergency: Laidlaw, Moore, Schmidt
AFL Fantasy Watch:
Nick Malceski might be a player to consider signing. Vogels is somewhat of a surprise inclusion, it could mean that Sydney are expecting to play Everitt, and Jolly, mainly in the ruck.
West Coast
FB: Wirrpanda, Glass, B.Jones
HB: Waters, Hunter, Hurn
C: Embley, Priddis, Braun
HF: Stenglein, Staker, Chick
FF: Armstrong, Lynch, Seaby
Foll: Cox, Judd, Kerr
bench: B.Jones, Graham, Rosa, Selwood
emergency: Brown, LeCras, Sampi
AFL Fantasy Watch:
Priddis is named in the middle and he has the potential to have a big fantasy stats year. Staker has been a good fantasy player before, he isn't cheap but with Hansen out he could play a big part.
Adelaide vs Essendon
Adelaide
FB: Johncock, Rutten, Bassett
HB: Doughty, Stevens, Torney
C: Mattner, Goodwin, Thompson
HF: McLeod, Bock, Reilly
FF: Welsh, Perrie, Burton
Foll: Hudson, Edwards, van Berlo
bench from: Griffen, Bode, Shirley, Knights, Douglas, Vince, Porplyzia
AFL Fantasy Watch:
There are some good fantasy prospects named on the bench, Porplyzia and Knights could have much improved fantasy number in 2007.
Essendon
FB: Slattery, Fletcher, Michael
HB: Johnson, Lucas, McPhee
C: Winderlich, Peverill, McVeigh
HF: Hird, Ryder, Welsh
FF: Davey, Lloyd, Jetta
Foll: Hille, Lovett, Stanton
bench from: Bradley, Bolton, Dyson, Johns, Lovett-Murray, Monfries, Watson
AFL Fantasy Watch:
Winderlich, Davey and Jetta could be fantasy bargains. Ryder is another player with a cheap price.
Western Bulldogs vs Geelong
Western Bulldogs
FB: McMahon, Hargrave, Morris
HB: Griffen, Wight, Gilbee
C: Eagleton, S.West, Ray
HF: Giansiracusa, McDougall, Akermanis
FF: Murphy, Darcy, Johnson
Foll: Minson, Cross, Cooney
bench from: Addison, Boyd, Higgins, Power, Robbins, Street, Montgomery
AFL Fantasy Watch:
McDougall is in the side, could be value as his price is below average. Darcy is another player who has a lowish starting price and the potential for much greater stats. Minson could have a good year for stats but it might depend on whether the Bulldogs will also play Street, the big ruckman is named on an extended bench of possible inclusions.
Geelong
FB: Harley, Scarlett, Enright
HB: D.Johnson, Egan, Milburn
C: Wojcinski, Bartel, Mackie
HF: Chapman, Mooney, Byrnes
FF: Gardiner, Ottens, G Ablett
Foll: Blake, Corey, Ling
bench from: N.Ablett, Prismall, Selwood, J.Hunt, Playfair, Djerrkura, Tenace
AFL Fantasy Watch:
Wojcinski might have his best year and he is among the cheaper options for experienced players. Blake is a cheap fantasy ruckman, but with King possibly back next week he may not be useful for too long.
Richmond vs Carlton
Richmond
FB: Raines, Newman, Gaspar
HB: J.Bowden, Polak, Deledio
C: Tivendale, Johnson, Polo
HF: Pettifer, Richardson, Brown
FF: Krakouer, Schulz, Tambling
Foll: Pattison, Tuck, Foley
bench from: Knobel, P.Bowden, Hyde, McGuane, Moore, Howat, King
AFL Fantasy Watch:
Pattison is definitely worth signing, he could be an emergency on a fantasy bench or he might get enough stats if played. Schulz is at a fantasy price where there is a chance for a big value increase if he plays well.
Carlton
FB: Houlihan, S.O'hAilpin, Thornton,
HB: Scotland, Waite, Walker
C: Simpson, Carrazzo, Lappin
HF: Stevens, Whitnall, Fisher
FF: Betts, Fevola, Kennedy
Foll: Ackland, Gibbs, Murphy
bench from: Blackwell, Bentick, Cloke, Grigg, Hartlett, Russell, Wiggins
AFL Fantasy Watch:
Gibbs and Murphy will be good value for fantasy teams. Kennedy may not do a lot as Fevola is the main target for the Blues. Cloke is expected to play and he and Ackland might not be very valuable for fantasy coaches when splitting the minutes.
Carlton are going to keep their winning lineup from the NAB Cup for their round 1 game against Richmond and will use the same tag-team in the ruck. Preseason draftees Cameron Cloke and Cain Ackland will share the ruck responsibilities.
A team would have a problem if they weren’t playing the top overall pick from the draft, and Gibbs will also be there against the Tigers.
From the Herald Sun newspaper: Gibbs up to speed
AFL Fantasy Impact:
This isn’t good for fantasy coaches who wanted to play one of the ruckmen as the expected playing time will probably be split down the middle. If one of them played most of the minutes they could be useful in fantasy games because of their low price, Ackland can sneak forward and kick a goal or two while Cloke can cover a lot of ground and bring in some marks and kicks. Judging by preseason stats, Cloke could have the most potential for fantasy stats. If you are going to play one then the first couple of games will be easier for them than others, as Richmond have Simmonds out and Geelong could be missing Steven King. The next games get a bit more difficult as the shorter Carlton ruckmen will battle Hille and then Dean Cox. Bryce Gibbs is a very good player for a fantasy roster. The choice people have to make is to whether he stays in the bench for a few games or if he is gambled on for round 1. It could be best to wait at least a week to see his stats, he should get to double-figures for possessions.
When the round 1 teams are officially announced there better be plenty of room for the “new players” listing under the Kangaroos lineup. Hansen, Riggio, Thomas, Campbell and Edwards all played well in the NAB Cup, and added needed ingredients to the Kangaroos, and they could all debut against Collingwood. Hansen was a versatile tall who kicked goals in some preseason games and also played as a defender in a practice match. Riggio was a reliable defender and Edwards, a former West Coast Eagle, provided another forward target. The Kangaroos need excitement, and goals, and youngsters Thomas and Campbell can provide that.
From The Age newspaper: Roos to pick four new faces
AFL Fantasy Impact:
Hansen was always going to be a good pick for fantasy teams, even before injuries opened up the prospect of more playing time. Riggio didn’t have any huge games in the preseason, but he was consistent for stats. Edwards with his 100 VFL goals in 2006 is a player to pick for fantasy teams. Campbell kicked a goal or two per game in the SANFL, and kicked 4 goals in one game, and he could have similar numbers in the AFL. Players like Campbell and Thomas should work very well crumbing around big Hale. Lindsay Thomas could combine goals as well as some possessions from bursts in the middle and he could be one of the best first year players for fantasy points. All these players have a very low fantasy price and are worth having on your fantasy team.
A lot of the players available in AFL fantasy competitions are very similar. But following are players who add something else. A small player who gets contested marks or a ruckman with a lot of kicks can bring in more fantasy points.
Non-ruckmen for hitouts.
Lynch, Rocca, Riewoldt, Hall, Merrett, Tarrant and Milburn will get a hitout or two every game. Shane Tuck is very good for an onballer. Luke Hodge and Joel Corey are other midfielders with size who will go for the hitout.
Non-forwards for goals.
Cooney and Scott Thompson are quite effective at going forward from the midfield to kick a goal. Robert Harvey can end a run through the middle with a kick at goal. Marc Murphy of Carlton has also begun kicking goals while playing in the middle. Judd can do most things and he also can sprint through the middle of the ground and finish with a long goal.
Bigs for tackles.
Like a lot of his teammates at Melbourne, Jared Rivers is a very good tackler. For ruckmen, Robert Campbell accumulates plenty of tackles. Craig Bolton isn't the tallest defender, and with his mobility he is able to tackle plenty of players. Drew Petrie is a tall defender, one of the tallest in the AFL, and after he was moved to centre half back last season he increased a lot of his stats and was very good for tackles. Adam Goodes and Anthony Koutoufides possibly could be in this category, they have height and are good for tackles but they also play as midfielders.
Key position players for kicks.
Joel Bowden sometimes is in a key defensive position and he is among the AFL leaders for kicks. A player who is always a key position option is Riewoldt and his kicks totals are much higher than most other tall players. Chad Cornes and Whitnall are also good for a lot of kicks. Scott Lucas was great last season, his kicks numbers should decrease a bit with Hird and Lloyd playing. James Clement is often played at centre half back and he has plenty of kicks. Pavlich might spend a lot of time at full forward but his kicks totals are more than many midfielders. Barry Hall also has high kicks totals for a big forward. Lade and Fraser are often among the leaders for ruckmen/forwards.
Talls for handballs.
A lot of the star ruckmen will get involved with the handball. White, Fraser, Cox and Hille are good talls for handballs. David Mundy at centre half back can also have a lot of handballs.
Smalls for marks.
The smaller players can get marks as a forward target, like Brad Johnson, or they can make space in the midfield and back line and take a lot of uncontested marks. Heath Scotland and Graham Johncock are often marking the ball by themselves at half back. Up on the wing Kade Simpson, Jess Sinclair and Geelong pair Enright and Bartel get a lot of marks. Melbourne's Bruce and Green provide shorter marking options all over the ground. In the middle of the ground there are players like Robert Harvey, Licuria and Stanton who find room and their marks totals also add up.
Talls for total disposals.
Adding up the kicks and handballs for the taller players shows that Fraser is one of the best ruckmen, Cox, White, Lade and Simmonds also get a lot of the ball. Both Bowdens, C Cornes, Milburn, Whitnall when played as a back, Goddard, Goodes, and both Johnson and Mundy of Fremantle are among the best talls for total disposals.
The Bombers drafted some exciting prospects in the first couple of rounds in the AFL National Draft but Essendon fans might have to wait to see them in action. While Alwyn Davey is a possibility, the Bombers don’t look like playing Scott Gumbleton, Tom Hislop or Leroy Jetta against the Crows.
From the Bombers site: Debutants may have to wait – Sheedy
AFL Fantasy Impact:
Gibbs, J Selwood and L Hansen are some players who could start their careers in round 1. They will all be useful for fantasy teams. Alwyn Davey should also be on many fantasy teams if he is named for round 1, although in most cases he will be on a fantasy bench. Gumbleton can probably play in any of the tall positions, but at Essendon when everyone is healthy there is a lot of veteran depth. Only injuries will open up a lot of playing time for Gumbleton. Jetta and Hislop are midfielders with experience playing senior football in lower leagues. While they may not play against Adelaide they both should get a chance early in the season. Jetta’s pace will be a welcome addition while Hislop is a very complete player who is ready for AFL.
2007 Premier: Fremantle
2007 Grand Final: Fremantle vs Sydney
2007 Norm Smith Medallist: Matthew Pavlich
2007 Brownlow Medallist: Chris Judd
2007 Coleman Medallist: Jonathan Brown
2007 Rising Star: Joel Selwood
2007 Ladder
Fremantle
Sydney
Western Bulldogs
West Coast
St Kilda
Adelaide
Melbourne
Geelong
Essendon
Port Adelaide
Hawthorn
Collingwood
Brisbane
Richmond
Carlton
Kangaroos
2007 All-Australian Team Prediction
FB Brendon Goddard, Luke McPharlin, Lindsay Gilbee
HB Kane Cornes, Chad Cornes, Brock McLean
C Adam Goodes, Sam Mitchell, Scott West
HF Cameron Bruce, Jonathan Brown, Gary Ablett
FF Brad Johnson, Matthew Pavlich, Barry Hall
Foll Dean Cox, Chris Judd, Luke Hodge
Bench Aaron Sandilands, Craig Bolton, Brett Deledio, Heath Shaw
All-Australian Captain: Matthew Pavlich
AFL Club Best and Fairest Predictions
Adelaide
Ben Hudson
Some may have forgotten how good he is, if the Crows remain in the top 4 it is because Hudson has played well in the ruck.
Brisbane
Justin Sherman
Brown, Black and Power might have Sherman joining them as the elite in their club.
Carlton
Marc Murphy
Maybe Waite, but Murphy is also a good chance as the younger players make it their team.
Collingwood
Nick Maxwell
H Shaw and Fraser will be other contenders, Maxwell is ready to take a big step this season.
Essendon
Brent Stanton
Stanton and Watson are their new generation.
Fremantle
Matthew Pavlich
Easy pick.
Geelong
Gary Ablett
It will be between G Ablett and Chapman.
Hawthorn
Sam Mitchell
Him or Hodge, Mitchell will have a few more stats this season.
Kangaroos
Jess Sinclair
He is one of their best players every year.
Melbourne
Cameron Bruce
He's one of their best and most consistent, McLean and White will challenge him.
Port Adelaide
Chad Cornes
Either him or his brother.
Richmond
Brett Deledio
This is the year that his club sees how good he is.
St Kilda
Brendon Goddard
A few other contenders will miss the early rounds or start the season after recovering from a serious injury, Goddard will start the season better than them and keep going into September.
Sydney
Craig Bolton
He's good, and he might have a bigger profile this season.
West Coast
Dean Cox
They do have another superstar who could win it, but Cox is just as important to the Eagles winning as Judd is.
Western Bulldogs
Lindsay Gilbee
It's not really the passing of the torch to the next generation, it's just that Gilbee is now at the level of West and Johnson.
The Power know that if they keep Pavlich under control it could produce an upset win against the Dockers. Chad Cornes is a player who reads the ball well and will be trying to get in front of Pavlich and cut off the supply of the football to him. Cornes is also ready for a physical game against the Dockers, and is ready to help not only Boak but also 198cm, 98kg Adam Cockshell if the game gets rough.
From The West Australian: Cornes in Pavlich pledge
AFL Fantasy Impact:
Knobel or Seaby would be expected to get more than 5 possessions, so Cornes will get a lot more. If he is leaving his opponent, possibly Longmuir or Ryan Murphy, and trying to intercept passes to Pavlich it could be good for fantasy games where big points are awarded to marking kicks from the opposition. Cornes would be happy with 5 possessions and a Power win, but he should be around 20. The article also has the stats for Pavlich against the Power, over 20 possessions a game against them recently.
It is possible that Mark Ricciuto tried to avoid a black cat by walking under a ladder which he bumped into a mirror that broke. His back is better, his neck is worse. He is expected to miss at least another month.
From The Advertiser: Injury blow a pain in the neck
AFL Fantasy Impact:
While Ricciuto is unlikely to be in fantasy teams to start the season, some planning can be done for those who intend to trade for him after he returns. Welsh or Bock could be signed now and while their stats will be good when Ricciuto does play they will be better in the early rounds when he isn’t available. Welsh could have the biggest change in stats when Ricciuto does play, as Welsh could go from being the Crows’ full forward to then having to share the goal-square with Ricciuto.
The Hawks have a lot of youngsters with talent, which is their reward for some poor seasons and lots of early draft picks, and with injuries and suspensions opening up spots there could be a couple of young Hawks who debut against the Lions. Xavier Ellis and Beau Muston entered the AFL a year ago but nothing was expected from them until at least 2007, and now they get their chance. One, or possibly both, could play as the Hawks are without Crawford, Vandenberg, Brown and Smith.
Hawthorn also have Queenslander Brent Renouf as a possible round 1 inclusion. Not only would Renouf be playing in a familiar location but he could also fill a role that he is experienced in. Charman could be playing centre half forward for the Lions and Renouf has played a tall defensive role before, in the Queensland league as well as the NAB Cup.
Story from The Age newspaper: Time for one young Hawk to earn his wings
AFL Fantasy Impact:
Any time a young player, with great potential and a very low fantasy price, is named to play their first game it can be a good investment for a fantasy team. As Ellis and Muston have been on the Hawthorn list for a year they are more advanced than the recent draft picks too so either one could become a regular player. If you had to choose one then maybe Ellis is the better option. Renouf moved up a spot on Hawthorn’s depth chart for ruckmen when Bailey went down, and as he can also play as a defender there is certainly the possibility that Renouf will play a few games this season.
Some thought Fevola injured a knee, others said it was a tooth, now the news is Fevola does have a sore knee but they can't find out what the problem is. Carlton say he will be there when they play Richmond in round 1.
From the AFL site: Fevola struggling with knee pain
AFL Fantasy Impact:
If there is a time during the season when Carlton announce that Fevola is going to miss games due to an injury then Josh Kennedy should have an instant increase in fantasy points. Assuming that Waite is still a defender, that would leave Whitnall as their other big forward and he would kick plenty of goals with Fevola absent. But right now it seems that Fevola will play and in the preseason games he has been kicking lots of goals. In the NAB Cup games he also brought down plenty of marks and was awarded quite a few free kicks, they all add up to fantasy points.
Jared Rivers has been trying to overcome a hamstring injury but there is the chance he won't be ready for round 1. While it isn't what the fans want to see, it could even up the game if Riewoldt also misses with his hamstring injury. Although the excitement level could be lowered significantly if the Rivers-Riewoldt showdown is replaced by the Holland-Blake tussle.
AFL Fantasy Impact:
The Dunn injury opened a spot for Miller at one end and if Rivers also misses then Miller would be a candidate for his spot too. So Miller is a player to watch at Melbourne. A couple of bargain fantasy defenders could emerge if the Demons choose them to play, Bizzell in the past has had the game to get fantasy stats and his price is among the lowest for experienced players, even cheaper is Matthew Warnock and he would give the Demons a taller player for the back line.
Some more important AFL predictions will be posted soon, here are 10 questions that are hard to answer and probably won't have any affect on which teams win games in 2007.
First team to replace their coach?
A coin-flip between the Kangaroos and Cats, maybe Geelong.
First player suspended for a regular season indiscretion?
The Power and Dockers should have a big opening game, Headland is a guess.
Which Nathan Brown will play the most games?
The Richmond one seems to be back to his best.
First player to kick a bag of goals, 10 or more?
Lloyd, in one of the first six rounds.
How many times will Max Rooke be called Jarad?
He will have to play before people mention him, maybe once a game people forget the name change.
Who will be the real "Mr Kennedy", the Carlton or Hawthorn version, for this season and over their entire career?
Hawthorn's Mr Kennedy is giving Carlton's a big head start so Carlton's should be better in 2007. Over their careers it will be a lot closer, maybe a slight edge to Carlton's Josh as he is the bigger player.
Who will have the most possessions in a game in 2007?
Sam Mitchell, might have a game or two with over 40 possessions. This would usually go to Scott West but he has a lot more help in the middle now.
Which "star" will unexpectedly find himself in the VFL?
Adem Yze might be the logical choice here, and there already has been some talk of it being possible.
What round will people stop mentioning Mother Hale when talking about David Hale?
The newspapers, who have covered some other AFL topics in the last week or two, have not mentioned Hale in recent times after giving his family a lot of coverage, but a TV commentator might be looking for something to talk about with Hale lining up for goal. It might get a mention in round 1 or 2.
What player will kick the most behinds in a game in 2007?
Maybe Fevola or Richardson, go with Fevola here as a twinge in his knee could affect his kicking in a game.
The Melbourne Demons did the right thing when they extended the contract of star Cameron Bruce. While some teams have players who seem to want to be Ken Bruce, who in the past had "gone completely mad", the Demons have one of the most skilled and versatile players in the AFL with Cameron Bruce.
From the Melbourne site: Bruce commits till 2010
AFL Fantasy Impact:
There are some theories about signing contract extensions, although none of these would apply to Bruce. A "contract year", as in the last year of a player's contract, does force some players to put in extra effort as they want a new and better deal, this can result in more stats. Signing an extension also takes the urgency away from some players, as they get the money no matter what happens so there are some who decline in numbers. Other players see signing a contract during the season as a distraction, others see it as a relief and it allows for a focus on what is happening on the field and not off it.
With Cameron Bruce none of the above will affect him. He is not just one of the stars of the AFL but also for AFL fantasy competitions. Whatever his price is he is worth it. Although this season he has lost a tiny bit in fantasy leagues as he can no longer be played as a forward. There were a couple of games last season when Daniher allowed Bruce to be dragged back to a deep defensive position, that wasn't good for Melbourne and it wasn't good for fantasy points. The Demons should be aware of that strategy, as opposition teams are willing to sacrifice one of their better midfielders as long as it gets Bruce out of the action for a while, and by making sure Bruce is in the action more he could have even better numbers for fantasy AFL than he did last year.
It is a good news/bad news situation at Richmond. The Tigers now have Cameron Howat and Jake King to consider for senior selection after deciding to elevate them from the rookie list but the two vacancies were provided by injuries to Mark Coughlan and youngster Carl Peterson. Howat was very good last season when he played for Richmond, it is possible that he is there in round 1.
AFL Fantasy Impact:
Some of the fantasy impact is from the player who was not elevated, Angus Graham. As another ruckman was not deemed necessary it could mean that Simmonds is much closer to playing than expected, that the club is happy to play Knobel or that Pattison did enough in the practice games to show that he can step up his game. It could be Pattison who helps fantasy teams in the early rounds. If you really want to save money then putting a rookie on your fantasy bench is an idea, now that King is a chance for a senior game he is more valuable than most other rookies. As Howat already has a statistical history in AFL games he also has a higher fantasy price. If the Tiger play Howat, and he is close to his stats from last season, he will be a good fantasy player even at the higher price.
Eagles' midfielder Chad Fletcher may miss a game or two after injuring his knee at training. If there is a problem with the knee it would not be helped by a flight to Sydney.
While Judd and Goodes are the players most will want to see in the round 1 game, there is a chance that Chick will provide plenty of entertainment too. It looks like he could either set a record for tackles in a game, or maybe reports, he seems to be very energetic at the moment.
News from the Eagles: West Coast's Fletcher injures knee
AFL Fantasy Impact:
Sumich has given fantasy coaches everything they need to know. Priddis, Armstrong and Le Cras are players to consider if Chad Fletcher does not play. He also said Embley and Kerr should get their usual stats, and that Rosa is considered to be part of their core group of midfielders now.
While some teams have a settled lineup and play the same full back every game, there are other teams that try different players and move around their defenders depending on what type of full forward is played against them. A full back is not going to get the same fantasy points as a player around half back or a forward who is kicking goals. There are some teams that have players who might be shifted to full back, possibly only for a few games or maybe a permanent move, and their stats could take a hit.
Adelaide
Most of the Crows in the defensive positions accumulate a lot of disposals so there may not be a problem if a player unexpectedly moves to the full back spot. While Bock is going to play forward a lot, there may be times when he is needed in the back half if a large number of tall forwards are played. If Essendon use Lloyd, Lucas, Hird and another marking option like Johns or Ryder then the Crows might need Bock back.
Brisbane
Merrett will be their full back on most occasions but this could change when a smaller, quicker player is the full forward. Jason Roe gets a lot of fantasy points but there will be some games when he will have to play full back, possibly on players like Mark Williams or Brett Ebert, and when Roe is out of the action at full back his stats would be expected to decrease.
Carlton
Waite could be played in the role Whitnall had last season, patrolling around half back made Whitnall a fantasy star in 2006 and the signs are there that Waite will also have increased stats. O'hAilpin would get the big full forwards, Thornton is another option, so there should be no need for Waite to play full back.
Collingwood
Clement could see some action at full back, this depends on the availability of Prestigiacomo as well as the size and speed of the opposing full forward.
Essendon
The Bombers will want to have Michael at full back and Fletcher at centre half back, but opposition teams will try to drag Fletcher out of the play by moving their forwards around.
Fremantle
There was a time when Pavlich spent time at full back, that seems like it was a long time ago. They have a settled defensive unit with McPharlin the player at full back now.
Geelong
Scarlett is a full back that can get disposals even at that position. There will be times that Harley or Egan find themselves at full back, they won't get many fantasy points for those games.
Hawthorn
Croad and Roughead play forward and back for Hawthorn. Both players would have more potential for fantasy points when played as a forward. Jacobs can have big games for fantasy points as a centre half back, if he plays full back it will decrease his stats.
Kangaroos
Firrito is a very versatile player, he can play in the middle if needed in a stopping role but has also found himself deep in the back line. When Firrito is at full back it does release Watt to go more into the action which will help Watt’s fantasy points.
Melbourne
Nathan Carroll is their guy at full back, they don't change things too much so you can pick their players for fantasy teams and have a good idea of their roles.
Port Adelaide
Teams will try to drag Chad Cornes back to full back but that never lasts long. Cornes would probably be good for fantasy stats there, and Chaplin isn't bad either.
Richmond
The Tigers will be hoping Gaspar can again contain the big full forwards, this would keep the Bowdens and Polak more in the play. If Gaspar can't play, and he has been injured frequently in recent years, then one of the other tall backmen will lose stats when moved to full back.
St Kilda
Injuries could affect who the Saints have available to play full back. If it isn't their normal choice, Hudghton, it could result on someone like Maguire being taken out of the action further up the field.
Sydney
Barry will play on most full forwards. That allows players like C Bolton to be in the play more.
West Coast
Glass gives them consistent play at full back, so fantasy coaches can choose other Eagles knowing they won't be pushed out of the play.
Western Bulldogs
Harris will be at full back, when suspensions and injuries allow it. There are times when Grant goes back to play on a big forward.
The strategies here are useful for AFL fantasy leagues with a draft where one player is allocated to one specific fantasy team in the league.
The more teams in the fantasy league the more important the star ruckmen and forwards become:
If it is a 16 team league, push the quality ruckmen and goal-kicking forwards much higher up in player rankings. There are around 5 to 10 really good fantasy ruckmen and forwards, while the midfielder depth for fantasy players is somewhere around 50 to 100 players.
Use the last pick/first pick of the rounds to fill a position:
If your team's first draft picks, for an 8 team league, are 8 and 9 it will be a long wait until you pick again. Draft two ruckmen in succession to get an advantage, if you select White and Fraser or Cox and Lade you can still get star midfielders with your next picks but if you wait for two rounds for your next draft picks it could be too late to get a good ruckman.
Use your bench to cover for your older, angrier or injury-prone players:
If you draft a player like Buckley who might be rested for a game or two throughout the season, you can use a late pick on another Collingwood player who would see increased action in those games. There are some players that are regulars at the AFL tribunal, you can cover the suspension risk by drafting that player's teammate, for example if Mooney is in your team you could use your last pick to put Nathan Ablett on your bench. Ruckmen have their share of injuries over the season, if you are playing a star ruckman in your fantasy team you can have the insurance policy of his backup on your fantasy bench. If Cox is hurt then you put Seaby in, if White is out and you have Jamar on your bench then you have it covered.
Establish how important goals are for that fantasy league:
If a lot more fantasy points are given to goals then obviously the players like Fevola, Gehrig and J Brown become much more important.
Pre-rank the players in the important positions very high on your list:
If you have to rank players for them to be drafted, forget about midfielders for the early picks and put star ruckmen, forwards and backs up the top of your list.
Use the other players' favourite teams against them:
If you know the other fantasy coaches in your league during a live draft, or if you can work out their allegiance due to their fantasy team name it can provide an advantage. If you have a couple of picks close together and are deciding between two players, but are unsure as to which one will last to the next pick, if one of the players you want is a favourite player of someone then you take them as they wouldn't last until the next pick. If your league has trading between fantasy teams, then having a couple of Magpies players could make it easier to trade with a Collingwood supporter, as everyone likes having their favourite players on their fantasy team.
Draft by the previous season's averages:
While total stats are important, when drafting players look at their averages from the previous season. That's why Jonathan Brown will go in the top 3 or so players.
Be careful with drafting older players from bad teams:
There are incentives for teams to rest, or shut down, their star veterans later in the year. It can allow the players more time to prepare for the next season and it doesn't hurt a team's draft picks either. If you had Adam Simpson and Shannon Grant last season in a fantasy team then it wasn't helpful for the final few rounds.
Anthony Koutoufides will miss around 8 weeks after injuring a finger. While he can’t dominate games like he used to, during the preseason he had been used in bursts off the bench and helped Carlton win their NAB Cup games.
From Yahoo7 Sports: Koutoufides out for up to two months
AFL Fantasy Impact:
Kouta missing will open up playing time for some of Carlton’s younger players. If Carlton wanted to play a midfielder with a similar size to Koutoufides then they could turn to Shaun Grigg. Jordan Russell has been used as a stopper in the midfield and he might have a bigger role now. Gibbs will be another player who could benefit with more stats with Koutoufides out.
1: Fremantle Dockers (1 in last AFL Power Rankings)
The Dockers haven’t been in this situation before, big favourites.
2: Western Bulldogs (2)
Darcy is playing, Murphy too, even Tom Williams, the Bulldogs are going to start the season with most of their list to pick from. The Bulldogs are real contenders this season, and Akermanis might be able to take them the extra step to win it all.
3: Sydney Swans (3)
Are now solid favourites for their round 1 match. Everitt is their best new player and Crouch is their comeback player for 2007.
4: West Coast Eagles (4)
Teams can lose a star and still win, the problem for the Eagles is there has to be a chance that another player or two could be in trouble. The Eagles have good depth and some new stars will appear in 2007 to keep the Eagles winning.
5: Adelaide Crows (5)
Will start the season without Ricciuto. He should be back after a few rounds and the Crows can still win without him as their back line is great and they also have several young midfielders who are ready for a bigger role.
6: Geelong Cats (6)
King is an injury concern but Geelong can overcome that. The real problem, if it can be called that, for Geelong is finding spots for new players like Selwood and Varcoe, the Cats will have a very deep midfield this year.
7: Melbourne Demons (7)
Have had a quiet preseason but are quietly confident as most of their list is healthy.
8: Essendon Bombers (8)
With Lloyd, Hird and Lucas they can compete with any team. Sheedy expects finals this season.
9: Port Adelaide Power (9)
Maybe the rebuilding at the Power only took a year as they have reloaded with fast players and will cause trouble for a lot of teams. Then in a few weeks they get Tredrea back too.
10: St Kilda Saints (11)
Hayes is ready, Koschitzke is healthy, Riewoldt might be, the Saints are not in bad shape.
11: Hawthorn Hawks (10)
A couple of veterans are suspended, their captain will miss with an injury, in recent times the Hawks would have been in trouble but they have enough depth to stay competitive with a few players out.
12: Carlton Blues (12)
Unlike the rest of the teams, Carlton haven't lost a game. The teams they did play in the NAB Cup didn't play in the finals in 2006, and the same thing is true of their round 1 opponent. Waite will be the key as he could be a loose defender played in front of Richardson.
13: Collingwood Magpies (13)
Look to be without Buckley and Didak for the first round or two. They do have young players who will step up and that could be enough for them to win against the Kangaroos.
14: Brisbane Lions (14)
Bradshaw and Brown were a dangerous duo, now it's a solo act in the Lions' forward line with Bradshaw hurt.
15: Richmond Tigers (15)
Their round 1 match could be decided by which full forward kicks the most goals, Richardson or Fevola.
16: Kangaroos (16)
Only two of their top 5 goal-kickers from 2006 will be playing this season, Jones and Grant. Their early games are winnable but they need to find a lot more goals.
Collingwood's Alan Didak hasn't been totally ruled out from playing in round 1 but as he hasn't had a practice match it looks like he will have a delayed start to the AFL season. Rocca led the team in goals last season, but the next three players for goals in 2006 won't be there for round 1 with Didak and Buckley injured and Tarrant traded.
AFL Fantasy Impact:
L Davis, A Rocca, C Egan, D Thomas and T Cloke could be the players that comprise the Collingwood forward line in round 1. Bryan could be there instead of Cloke while Josh Fraser is expected to play as a forward for parts of games. Pendlebury and Medhurst are other players in the mix. Rocca could be good value, Davis and Egan are inconsistent but one of them could have a big game. Dale Thomas is at a similar fantasy price to Davis and Egan, Thomas is going to be better this year than he was in his debut season so he can still improve his stats. Cloke and Bryan don't cost a lot, Cloke is a fantasy forward while Bryan is a ruck option. Pendlebury should have a very good year. While some people mention the Tarrant trade being for Medhurst, he was just a bonus for Collingwood as the pick that become Ben Reid was the real reward for Collingwood. Reid could play earlier than expected and he is a first year player with a low price.
The Adelaide Crows have seen a lot of their talls go down injured but with Hudson back to his best and now Griffin impressing with his play the Crows will go into round 1 with a competitive combination in the ruck. Brett Burton thinks Griffin is ready to play and his coach is also happy with the progress Griffin has made.
From The Advertiser: Ruckman earns tick
AFL Fantasy Impact:
Burton is a spectacular player himself, if he thinks Griffin is “impressive” then that is a good indication of where Griffin is at. Fantasy coaches looking for a ruckman to add to their bench should consider Griffin due to his price and his good performances during preseason. He is a ruckman/forward and as the Crows need a little help in both spots it could bring in some fantasy points.
The Dockers could enter the 2007 season as favourites to win it all, they have added some veteran help to the team and have begun to extend the contracts of their star players. The most important player for Fremantle is, of course, Matthew Pavlich. If the Dockers get Pavlich to sign an extension before the season begins it would remove something that could be a distraction during the year. According to this article from The West Australian a contract extension could be close.
Pavlich will stay
If Pavlich does sign a new contract now it would give him the security of a long-term deal, as well as stopping him hearing repeatedly in interviews “are you staying or leaving?”, and if he waits until the season is over he could be negotiating with a Brownlow or Norm Smith as well as a place in the All-Australian team.
The Lions should officially announce Colm Begley’s elevation from the rookie list soon. They will also be able to add another rookie due to Bradshaw’s injury. Read the article from The Sunday Mail to find out what Coach Matthews is going to do to overcome the loss of Bradshaw as well as news on Begley, Lappin, Charman and other Lions.
Lion stands tall
AFL Fantasy Impact:
Begley had an inconsistent NAB Cup with two quiet games and two impressive games. If he does have a regular role with the Lions this season he should average double-figures in possessions, and could have a small increase in fantasy value, a lot will depend on whether Lappin is healthy or if they decide to play Johnson in the back line as that will affect Begley’s playing time. Both Johnson and Lappin are players to watch, the veterans could be undervalued in fantasy games as they are both returning after injuries. It might take a few games for Lappin to get back to his normal stats, and he mentions he might start on the bench when he does return. Charman is a tough player to predict for fantasy stats, especially as a full-time forward. Fantasy coaches might not want to start Charman in round 1 if the Lions play two other ruckmen, and waiting a game or two might show if Charman is getting enough of the ball as a forward to be worth his fantasy price.
Williams was a very high draft pick, and at the time the Bulldogs were hoping he would provide the height they needed then, but injuries have stopped Williams from playing for the Bulldogs. It is certainly good news that he is starting the season healthy and he made it through his comeback game in the VFL.
Bulldogs’ fans also had more good news from the VFL with Murphy and Darcy playing another game. Both should be there for round 1. Peter Street also made an appearance, he might need more time in the VFL. It will be interesting to see if the Bulldogs play two ruckmen as well as Darcy in round 1, or if they are happy to start Minson in the ruck and give Darcy an occasional run in the ruck to allow Minson a break.
Story from The Age: Williams back as Dogs start to shape up
AFL Fantasy Impact:
Something to file away for later in the season, if injuries hit some of their tall defenders like Grant and Wight then Williams may get his chance. As Williams has yet to play in the AFL his fantasy price is still at the lowest level.
Another update on Troy Simmonds’ injury, he is very unlikely to be there for round 1. Coach Wallace now says he expects him back in a few weeks, possibly with a VFL game or two to prepare him.
From The Age: Tiger ruckman to miss
AFL Fantasy Impact:
Nothing new to this and fantasy coaches will need to wait until the team is named to see if a new fantasy ruckman emerges. If the Tigers share the ruck duties with Simmonds out, possibly playing both Knobel and Pattison, it may not give either player enough time to accumulate stats. Knobel also has some injury concerns so possibly the Tigers just go with Pattison, he might get enough fantasy points to make him value at his price, especially if he plays a bit like Simmonds and drifts forward to kick a goal or two.
The Port Adelaide Power have a lot of depth when it comes to quality smalls. Tom Logan is in a group of several players who are competing for a round 1 spot. Averaging around 15 possessions a game in the NAB Cup, which was a small increase from his average from season 2006, Logan could be there when the Power play the Dockers.
From the Power site: Logan thrives on Power lifeline
AFL Fantasy Impact:
In the article Logan explains how the Power already have many talented onballers and that he is in a group with Rodan and Thomson who are trying to get a senior spot. Young players Boak and possibly Krakouer are some other options the Power have. Rodan is around half the fantasy price of Logan or Thomson, although all three players are among the lowest in price for midfielders who are expected to play a good number of games. Any of those three players will be value in fantasy teams if they play significant minutes for the Power.
To assist with selecting players for AFL fantasy teams, here are the top 25 ranked players from various stats in 2006. None of these statistics take into account the effectiveness which is counted for some fantasy AFL games, they are just totals. Some stats have more than 25 players, as there were some players on the same amount of stats. Down the bottom of this post is a list of players who contributed in the most categories.
Kicks
1 Luke Power
2 Ben Johnson
3 Heath Scotland
4 Simon Goodwin
5 Adam Goodes
6 Adem Yze
7 Kane Cornes
8 Travis Johnstone
9 Brent Harvey
10 Brent Stanton
11 Paul Chapman
12 Corey Enright
13 Sam Mitchell
14 Joel Bowden
15 Nick Dal Santo
16 Ryan O'Keefe
17 Brad Johnson
18 Brendon Goddard
19 Lindsay Gilbee
20 Nathan Buckley
21 Kayne Pettifer
22 Heath Shaw
23 Ryan Houlihan
24 Luke Hodge
25 Dane Swan
Handballs
1 Scott West
2 Daniel Cross
3 Jobe Watson
4 Simon Black
5 Sam Mitchell
6 Simon Goodwin
7 Cameron Ling
8 Kane Cornes
9 James McDonald
10 Rowan Jones
11 Shane O'Bree
12 Tyson Edwards
13 Joel Corey
14 Michael Braun
15 Michael Voss
16 Cameron Bruce
17 Michael Doughty
18 Heath Scotland
19 Chris Judd
20 Matthew Boyd
21 Robert Shirley
22 Justin Sherman
23 Peter Bell
24 Scott Burns
25 Daniel Harris
Disposals
1 Scott West
2 Simon Goodwin
3 Daniel Cross
4 Heath Scotland
5 Kane Cornes
6 Sam Mitchell
7 Luke Power
8 James McDonald
9 Ben Johnson
10 Simon Black
11 Brent Harvey
12 Joel Corey
13 Cameron Bruce
14 Tyson Edwards
15 Luke Hodge
16 Chris Judd
17 Nick Dal Santo
18 Cameron Ling
19 Peter Bell
20 Lindsay Gilbee
21 Joel Bowden
22 Corey Enright
23 Shane O'Bree
24 Dane Swan
25 Justin Sherman
Marks
1 Nick Riewoldt
2 Barry Hall
3 Brendon Lade
4 Patrick Bowden
5 Scott Lucas
6 Matthew Pavlich
7 Lance Whitnall
8 Kayne Pettifer
9 Brendon Goddard
10 Cameron Bruce
11 Josh Fraser
12 Brad Johnson
13 Dane Swan
14 Darren Milburn
15 Leo Barry
16 Ryan O'Keefe
17 Nathan Bassett
18 Adam Goodes
19 Heath Shaw
20 Daniel Bradshaw
21 Samuel Fisher
22 Drew Petrie
23 Paul Licuria
24 Graham Johncock
25 Campbell Brown
Goals
1 Brendan Fevola
2 Barry Hall
3 Fraser Gehrig
4 Brad Johnson
5 Scott Lucas
6 Matthew Pavlich
7 David Neitz
8 Mark Williams
9 Nick Riewoldt
10 Daniel Bradshaw
11 Anthony Rocca
12 Quinten Lynch
13 Nathan Thompson
14 Jeff Farmer
15 Matthew Richardson
16 Matthew Robbins
17 Mark Ricciuto
18 Trent Hentschel
19 Alan Didak
20 Russell Robertson
21 Michael O'Loughlin
22 Ben Dixon
23 Brett Burton
24 Chris Tarrant
25 Jonathan Brown
26 Gary Ablett
27 Aaron Davey
Behinds
1 Brendan Fevola
2 Scott Lucas
3 Nathan Thompson
4 Matthew Richardson
5 Brad Johnson
6 Daniel Bradshaw
7 Fraser Gehrig
8 Nick Riewoldt
9 Barry Hall
10 Matthew Pavlich
11 Chris Tarrant
12 Michael O'Loughlin
13 Stephen Milne
14 Quinten Lynch
15 Anthony Rocca
16 Gary Ablett
17 Russell Robertson
18 David Neitz
19 Mark Williams
20 Mark Ricciuto
21 Matthew Robbins
22 Andrew Embley
23 Brett Burton
24 Trent Hentschel
25 Alan Didak
Hitouts
1 Darren Jolly
2 Jeff White
3 Aaron Sandilands
4 Brendon Lade
5 Peter Street
6 Troy Simmonds
7 Dean Cox
8 David Hille
9 Barnaby French
10 Josh Fraser
11 Jamie Charman
12 Rhett Biglands
13 Brad Ottens
14 Peter Everitt
15 Robert Campbell
16 Matthew Clarke
17 Mark Seaby
18 David Hale
19 Mark Jamar
20 Steven King
21 Cain Ackland
22 Dean Brogan
23 Jason Blake
24 Wayde Skipper
25 Hamish McIntosh
Tackles
1 James McDonald
2 Brett Kirk
3 Jude Bolton
4 Shaun Burgoyne
5 Tyson Stenglein
6 Daniel Harris
7 Matthew Bode
8 Simon Black
9 Luke Ball
10 Daniel Cross
11 Chris Judd
12 Nick Dal Santo
13 Cameron Bruce
14 Luke Hodge
15 Paul Chapman
16 Matthew Boyd
17 Clint Bartram
18 Amon Buchanan
19 Adam Bentick
20 Shane O'Bree
21 Scott Thompson
22 Brent Reilly
23 Josh Carr
24 Robert Shirley
25 Luke Power
26 Leigh Montagna
Frees For
1 Scott West
2 James McDonald
3 Luke Hodge
4 Daniel Cross
5 Corey Jones
6 Luke Ball
7 Jude Bolton
8 Josh Fraser
9 Sam Mitchell
10 Joel Corey
11 Chris Judd
12 Josh Mahoney
13 Jeff White
14 Josh Carr
15 Brad Ottens
16 Simon Goodwin
17 Nick Dal Santo
18 Adam Selwood
19 Dean Cox
20 Travis Johnstone
21 Drew Petrie
22 Brendan Fevola
23 Mark Johnson
24 Angus Monfries
25 Simon Black
26 Daniel Kerr
Total Top 25 Stat Categories
This group of players are all in the elite for fantasy stats. They were in the top 25 of 4 of the above categories.
Simon Goodwin
Sam Mitchell
Nick Dal Santo
Brad Johnson
Luke Hodge
Daniel Cross
Simon Black
James McDonald
Cameron Bruce
Chris Judd
These players made it into the top 25 for 3 of the categories, although some of the players had their score boosted by being in the top 25 for behinds, not the most important fantasy stat but they are counted.
Kane Cornes
Heath Scotland
Luke Power
Dane Swan
Scott West
Shane O'Bree
Joel Corey
Nick Riewoldt
Barry Hall
Scott Lucas
Matthew Pavlich
Josh Fraser
Brendan Fevola
Lenny Hayes and Justin Koschitzke should be ready for round 1 after playing for the Casey Scorpions in a VFL practice match. They have now played in two practice matches while Max Hudghton made his first appearance of the preseason in this game.
News from the Saints site: Saints stars survive final hit-out
AFL Fantasy Impact:
With no Hamill, and Riewoldt possibily missing, the Saints could need Koschitzke in the forward line for round 1. With a few marks and a goal or two he should have solid fantasy numbers for his first game back. Hayes is playing at a high level after recovering from his injury and should be back among the top fantasy midfielders in the AFL. Hudghton would be a risk to have in a fantasy team for round 1, not only has he had a very limited preparation but if he does play he will be battling the size of Neitz or possibly the athleticism of Robertson.
A week ago Coach Wallace said Richardson would be available in round 1 and that looks correct after news from Richmond training. While the Tigers did have a win in a practice against Collingwood without Richardson most of their goals that day were kicked by smaller players. Richmond need Richardson and if he is available for all 22 games it could get them to the finals. Troy Simmonds' injury was always going to make his round 1 availability a bit difficult, there is no decision yet and it is likely that Richmond wait until the day of the game.
From the Herald Sun: Richardson ready for Carlton
AFL Fantasy Impact:
If Simmonds does play in round 1 he won't be at his best and as his fantasy price is high you will want to wait until he is back to last season's form. If Simmonds, and possibly Knobel, are unavailable for Richmond's round 1 game then Pattison and Polak could be their ruck options. Polak should get enough fantasy points as a tall defender, but as a ruckman they could be even better and for this game he wouldn't have a height problem as Carlton will also play shorter ruckmen. Pattison has been used by the Tigers as a forward and ruckman, he could take the next step and become a regular player for them if he gets an opportunity and more playing time in round 1. Richardson costs plenty in fantasy leagues but that is because he delivers, with his fitness confirmed for round 1 he should be a player on many fantasy teams.
Bradshaw had a big 2006 but he has had several injuries in the preparation for 2007. It looks like he might now miss the entire year due to a knee injury.
Lions in sweat over Bradshaw injury
AFL Fantasy Impact:
With Bradshaw having such a great year in 2006, due in part to Brown and others missing, it pushed up his fantasy price this year. Now the dilemma of deciding if Bradshaw was worth that price is gone. His absence now pushes up the value of other Lions, Brown was probably going to be worth his huge price but now without Bradshaw he will be even more of a focus for the Lions. Patfull has potential, Tyler has a very cheap price in fantasy and McGrath is another cheap fantasy forward. Bradshaw’s injury also opens up the idea that Matthews had to play three ruckmen. One is forward, one in the ruck and one on the bench. Charman may be a bit overpriced if he has to share time with two other bigmen, maybe Wood is a bargain to consider but possibly Beau should be overlooked. When Leuenberger plays, and they didn’t take him so high in the draft not to play him, it could be as a forward.
Their superstar may wait until the season is over to negotiate his next contract and the club will talk to their coach about his next contract in September. The Dockers have other players to sign to extensions and they got a big one out of the way with Sandilands agreeing to an extra three years.
Sandilands re-signs with Dockers
While Pavlich is of great importance to Fremantle, if they lost Sandilands to another club next season it would have left the expected big hole in their lineup. Warnock hasn’t played yet and Longmuir doesn’t have the size to play in the ruck for an entire game.
On Saturday the Herald Sun will have their AFL preview book included with the newspaper and the next day The Sunday Age will be worth buying as their version of a season preview is free with the purchase of the paper.
These booklets usually have the team lists, predictions and lots of other useful information.
Fremantle
Sydney
West Coast
St Kilda
Adelaide
Western Bulldogs
Geelong
Melbourne
Port Adelaide
Brisbane
Richmond
Carlton
Collingwood
Essendon
Hawthorn
Kangaroos
The AFL captains nominated the clubs they thought would make the 8. The top 3 teams on the list were all unanimous selections while nobody picked the bottom five teams to make the finals. Big things are expected from Geelong, with the AFL captains expecting them to make the finals. Above is a ladder using their predictions, with the bottom 5 all rated the same and the top 3 also with the same votes.
The expectation for the 2007 AFL Grand Final is for Fremantle to play either Sydney or the Eagles.
Judd, who probably couldn’t nominate himself, was the Brownlow pick for around half the captains. Goodes was second favourite.
Lloyd and Fevola are expected to compete for the Coleman Medal while Bryce Gibbs is the consensus pick for the Rising Star Award.
Last season the captains also went for Lloyd for the most goals and they picked Carlton’s previous first overall pick, Marc Murphy, for the Rising Star Award. The Crows were favourites to play in the 2006 Grand Final in last year’s predictions.
Go to the AFL site for the full list of votes for the 2007 predictions:
Skippers tip Judd, Dockers for top honours
One note of interest, from the vision of the event it seemed that teams with more than one captain had to have one specific player. Brown was the man for the Lions and Riewoldt represented the Saints.
You can buy a couple of his boots, plenty of his jumpers and many other assorted items. 80 Buckley auctions is a bit low, it is often over 100.
This item would have increased in value, a football card from the 1994 set that was signed by Buckley. Everyone will want to see what Buckley officially weighs this season, looking at his card from early in his career he has added at least 10kg of muscle.
SIGNED 1994 NATHAN BUCKLEY SELECT CARD
Here is a menu from the Brownlow, signed by Buckley as well as 33 other players. Not really that expensive if you average it out, right now it is only $6 per autograph.
Brownlow Menu signed by THIRTY FOUR
Buckley is a shoe-in for the Hall Of Fame, and here is a shoe or a boot.
Please consider the following from the auction:
PROFESSIONALLY FRAMED AND MATTED AND IS A TRUE INVESTMENT FOR THE BLUES FAN
NATHAN BUCKLEY SIGNED & FRAMED BOOT
Thursdays could be a bit busy from now on, so expect to see the expensive, interesting or strange auction stories on another night.
The preseason draft used to be just before the season started, not surprisingly that is how it got its name. Each team would pick up two or three ready-made players to add to their list, which in those days was much bigger. Now lists are cut back, the preseason draft is pushed forward, and the teams suffer. But there is a way to give teams depth, to give veteran players another chance while also helping clubs in lower leagues.
During the time between the preseason Grand Final and round one of the regular season could be the Emergency Player Allocation AFL Draft. This could be called the EPA but it should not be. All 16 teams have 5 picks to allocate players from other leagues. So players in the VFL, SANFL, WAFL or anywhere else can be chosen. There might be a rule that the players have to be over 21 years of age.
Each club in the lower leagues that had a player allocated would receive an amount of money from the AFL, maybe $1000. This would be a small price for the AFL to pay. More compensation would be received if the player was called up to the AFL team. This not only provides needed finances for clubs, but it also gives them the incentive to recruit bigger names which could result in larger crowds attending matches.
During the season, if there is an injury, retirement, delisting, or anything else that opens a spot then the allocated player can be put on the list of the AFL team. A team is better served by playing a veteran than an untried rookie and the AFL fans will also get to see an old star again. If a team lost several veteran smalls late in the season to injury they could add someone like Troy Makepeace.
Players get injured during preseason training and during practice games. That is a fact, and even though clubs do their best it is inevitable. If a team loses a couple of ruckmen during the preseason to knee injuries then being able to bring a player like Clark Keating or Daniel Bandy into the lineup would help. A lot of teams struggle to kick goals, and if their full forward went down for the season they would be in bad shape. But if the team had a player like Podsiadly to play then it could keep a team in finals contention.
AFL teams would be stronger, players’ careers could be extended longer, local football clubs would receive needed funds, there would be benefits for most of the football leagues. Adelaide could use Clark Keating now, the Kangaroos might like the insurance of having Jason Cloke available if needed, they didn't know that when the AFL drafts occurred as they were held last year. The AFL has looked at changing their drafts and trading period, having a draft either right before the NAB Cup or even before the real season starts could allow teams to address needs and with a better list it will improve the standard of the AFL.
Albert Proud is an aptly-named player to be part of the pride of Lions in Brisbane. He was a possible first round pick in the 2006 draft but lasted until his home-state team had their second round pick. He has been out injured with a shoulder problem but is expected to play in a practice match on the weekend. Nigel Lappin and Richard Hadley are a couple more Lions who have recovered from injuries. Lappin is ready to take part in the practice match while Hadley was close but will take more time before he plays a game.
From the Courier-Mail: Lappin back on field
AFL Fantasy Impact:
Looking at last season's Brisbane side, they were a team that Proud would have walked right into their starting lineup. The NAB Cup games this season showed a much improved Brisbane team, and with Proud missing out on some of the preparation due to his injury it might take a few rounds for him to get a game. Lappin is also returning from injury and if he is successful it will make it harder for Proud to get a game. If Nigel Lappin gets close to his previous form then he will also be useful for fantasy teams, his price is lower this season too. Lappin had several injuries so a good strategy might be to see how he performs for his first one or two games, his most recent injury was the arm problem where he could not fully extend at the elbow. The news article not only talked about Lappin’s comeback but also Richard Hadley. Hadley may have fantasy value later in the AFL season. When Proud does make his debut for the Lions this year he could have a rapid increase in fantasy value just like Roe did for Brisbane last season, and also consider Lappin and Hadley after they have shown they are fully recovered and play a couple of good games.
The Hawks have had an interesting preseason, they discovered some new talent, had to deal with a few reports and now they have to adjust their round 1 plans with Richard Vandenberg out of action. He is another AFL player with a preseason hamstring injury.
News from Hawthorn: Captain to miss start of season
AFL Fantasy Impact:
Not many fantasy teams had Vandenberg in their lineup last season, and that will continue for this season. What his injury does change is the fantasy value of some of the younger Hawthorn players. Crawford and Brown are also suspended for round 1, and now with Vandenberg to miss games it gives playing time to Hawks like Clarke, Young and Guerra. Birchall, Lewis and Sewell will continue to be quality fantasy players in 2007 and should start the season with increased stats as they will take on more responsibility with the veterans out. Vandenberg's injury could open a spot for Xavier Ellis, Hawthorn fans want to see him in action and for fantasy coaches Ellis has great statistical potential combined with a bargain-basement price.
The Dockers have plenty of depth this season and they now have Heath Black, Robert Haddrill and Robert Warnock who could be ready for round 1. There won't be room for all three in the Dockers' round 1 team, Black is the most likely to play against the Power.
Story from The West Australian: Haddrill, Black fit to play
News from the Fremantle site: Focus on Round One
AFL Fantasy Impact:
Warnock has yet to play a game in the AFL, he is a big prospect but for fantasy stats the only way he will contribute this season is if Sandilands and Longmuir are out. Haddrill is among many medium-tall defenders competing for a spot with the Dockers, it will be difficult for him to force his way into the round 1 team. Heath Black is an above average midfielder for fantasy points, he'll get his usual 20 possessions a game this season.
Here is a look back to how a VFL game telecast would start. The highlight has to be the Nissan Ground Report and its graphics. It’s good to see the umpires knew how to bounce the ball back in 1988, the weather outlook is “fine” but the little character holding the flag does not look too happy.
This video also shows that the yo-yo must have been back in fashion in 1988, have a look at the video from the Youtube site and enjoy the music that accompanied the football in those days.
With the season about to begin this will be the last video for a while, as there will be plenty of new highlights when the 2007 season commences.
Friday Night VFL (1988)
Judd moved from a superstar to whatever the next level is when Cousins was out of the Eagles' lineup last season. When Cousins was unavailable in 2006 the West Coast Eagles had a couple of wins, a loss that had less than a kick in it and another loss in an away game to Collingwood.
The Eagles will be able to look back to see what worked when Cousins wasn't playing. Last season they had extra contributions from players like Rosa and Staker and that should happen again. But as long as Judd is there they are in good shape.
Judd averaged approximately 25 disposals last season, but when Cousins was out Judd pushed that closer to 30 per game. Judd didn't just go at the ball for those games, he went after the player with the ball. While maybe there is no reason for the stat increase, if Cousins wasn't playing Judd had an average of over 6 tackles per game. If Judd had maintained that average for the entire season he would have led the AFL. Judd also kicked more goals per game when Cousins was out.
Staker, Rosa and Wooden all had games of 20 or more possessions when Cousins was out. Staker, Wirrpanda, Hunter and Chick also provided extra goals with Cousins out of the lineup. The regular midfielders like Braun, Stenglein, Fletcher and Kerr had their normal stats when Cousins was out.
Phil Matera and Paul Roos both think the Eagles will still be a dominating team. Matera is cheering on his former team while Roos is making sure he doesn't provide any more excitement in the buildup to their round 1 clash.
From the Sydney Swans site: Eagles still very formidable
From the AFL site: Suspension won't hamper Eagles: Matera
If you have any questions during the season for fantasy teams then just leave a comment here. You may want to include your team, which competition you are playing as SuperCoach and Dream Team have different values and points, and anything else that is relevant when you submit your question. Just press the End key and it will take you to the comments box at the bottom of the page.
Here are links for the AFL fantasy competitions.
The Herald Sun SuperCoach game
The AFL Dream Team competition
Kangaroos' backman Josh Gibson was a good news story for the club as he starred in the preseason games but he may not be ready to go for the regular season after injuring a hamstring.
News from the Herald Sun newspaper: Gibson adds to Roos' run of outs
AFL Fantasy Impact:
Gibson had a very good preseason and would have been selected in quite a few fantasy teams as his price was a bit low. When Gibson does return he should be a solid fantasy player. For the one or two rounds that Gibson does miss, it could give players more time in the back line and might allow someone to grab a spot in the team. Archer can play at both ends, and Nathan Thompson suggested he could help the Kangaroos as a forward, but if Archer is in the back line his fantasy numbers can be a lot better. With Gibson out it might cause Laidley to play Archer back, and if Archer is loose around half back it will be good for fantasy points. While he was probably in the team anyway, with Gibson out it will mean someone like Riggio has a bigger role. Riggio is good value for a bench spot on a fantasy roster, he is one of the cheapest players and he did get to double-figures for possessions in a couple of NAB Cup games.
If Ricciuto's back allows it he hopes to be playing in round 3 of the AFL season. When he is free of pain in his back he will be out there for the Crows.
News from The Advertiser newspaper: Ricciuto forced into backflip
AFL Fantasy Impact:
Coach Craig has to juggle his lineup a bit with plenty of injury concerns and fantasy coaches have to adjust their teams too. If you start the season with Welsh and Bode in your team they should be very productive, when Ricciuto does come back it could affect one or both players for fantasy points. Welsh will likely be the number 1 option deep in the Crows' forward line but when Ricciuto plays he will have to share the position, and some of his statistics. Bode will still be a good fantasy player with Ricciuto there as he can go up the ground and get the ball as well as play forward and kick goals. Luke Jericho also had some injury problems, he is a bit of a forgotten player at the Crows but as their forward options diminish they could turn to him at some time during the year. Jericho has a very low fantasy price and would be a good fantasy signing if the Crows play him.
It is the start of the season and every team has a chance, here are the positives that the club has. Nothing negative, one hundred percent optimism. This isn't what you would get from an old, crunchy guy sitting on a couch, only a long-time supporter of the team would enter the season with this positive outlook. Anyone can win, in March 2005 the Swans were not a big favourite and in 1993 the Bombers came from out of nowhere to win, so all 16 teams can have the belief at the start of the season that they could be holding up the cup at the end of the year. This is why they will win it all.
They have Pavlich:
One of the most complete players in the AFL.
Solomon adds strength and September experience:
He needed a change and the Dockers need his physical presence for the finals.
Hasleby is healthy and playing well:
Possibly their most important onballer.
Tarrant gives them more forward options:
They did trade away a piece of their future, but Tarrant will help a lot right now.
Sandilands gives them first use of the ball:
Can't teach height, every game he provides a big obstacle for opposition teams.
Parker deserves a Grand Final appearance:
He's been there from the start, through the thin and the thin of the Dockers' history, he deserves to play in the big game at the MCG.
McPharlin is one of the best tall defenders:
He has the size and athleticism to compete with, and stop, the star forwards of the AFL.
Little Bell Plays Big:
He doesn't give up and he doesn't back down, and he is another Docker who won the AFL Grand Final with a different club.
Their Carrs Crash:
A team would prefer to have an overabundance of physical play than be considered soft, these brothers provide destruction.
Longmuir, a former second overall draft pick, can put them over the top:
He can be the second tall deep in the forward line, he can also go into the ruck so Sandilands can have a rest, Longmuir could be the missing piece for them to win.
Collingwood will be without Nathan Buckley when the season begins. He will miss at least the first two games, Collingwood's round 1 match against the Kangaroos as well as a trip west to play the Eagles in round 2.
Buckley news from Collingwood: Hamstring setback for Bucks
AFL Fantasy Impact:
Better go and move him out of your fantasy team for now. When he is named to play, possibly round 3 or 4, it might be better to wait a game to see how he is going although he could get 30 possessions and 3 goals in his first game back. A few spots have opened up at Collingwood due to recent injuries. With Buckley and Rusling out, the forward line will be without a couple of important players. Pendlebury, Thomas, Medhurst and Cloke could have bigger roles. All of these players are affordable in fantasy leagues and if they perform they could have a solid fantasy price increase. Pendlebury might be the best player to sign, he is a bit cheaper than Thomas and Medhurst. Buckley was also going to get a good amount of time in the middle, the Magpies have many capable onballers and some of them will have an increase in stats with Buckley out. Heath Shaw has a high fantasy price but was expected to have more time in the middle of the ground this season and even better statistics than 2007, Buckley’s absence could result in H Shaw becoming Collingwood’s most productive fantasy player.
These players may be great AFL stars but for fantasy stats it can be a different story. A couple of big games last season could have resulted in exaggerated stats and a high fantasy price this year, a player may be older or maybe their role has changed with new additions to the club.
Round 1 might show that these players deserve their high fantasy price, but right now it might be better to wait before selecting them for your fantasy team. The following players will take up at least 6.25% of a fantasy team salary-cap, with 29 other players needing to be signed to complete the fantasy team it might make these players a bit of a risk.
Patrick Bowden: He was a bit of a surprise last season, for opposition teams and fantasy coaches. It will be tough for him to replicate his great numbers from 2006, but he still might do it.
Lance Whitnall: Could be moved forward and have a big drop in stats from last season, in 2006 he roamed around half back getting lots of kicks and intercepting plenty of opposition attacks which made him a fantasy superstar.
Danny Jacobs: It's been a long time since he played, he has a big price and his round 1 role could be different than it was last season. If Jacobs gets the job on Brisbane's Brown it won't be good for his fantasy points.
Brad Symes: Was more popular with fantasy coaches than he was with some fans at the games last season, his preseason in 2007 hasn't been as good as his 2006 numbers.
Matthew Lappin: Has been thrown around in different positions during preseason, will have some useful games but could be on the bench a lot in others.
Robert Harvey: The Saints might limit his playing time to make sure he is fresh for September.
Adem Yze: He won't be in the action as much as the Demons have many younger players who will get minutes in the middle. While he will still be a great player for the Demons his high price in fantasy leagues means there will be better options than him.
Cameron Ling: Could be played in more shutdown roles this season, that will help Geelong win but could result in some games when his fantasy points are quite low. His time in the middle could also be affected if G Ablett, Chapman and Selwood play more in the centre too.
Leigh Montagna: Teams with a new coach and system can change the numbers of fantasy player stats, Montagna's price is a bit high at the moment.
Chad Fletcher: His spot in the team is not assured as it was in past seasons, maybe he does play a lot in the middle and justify his high fantasy price but there is some risk.
Anthony Koutoufides: Bursts from the bench might be more effective for his team now and could extend his career for an extra year, but it won't help with fantasy points.
Scott Camporeale: The Bombers are a lot healthier and deeper this season, and Camporeale's fantasy price is too high for his expected stats.
Scott Lucas: His fantasy price reflects his 2006 season when Lloyd and Hird missed many games, Lucas will see less of the ball this season with Essendon at full strength.
Mark LeCras: He has a high fantasy price this season due to a high fantasy points average from only a few games last season.
Renaming Moorabbin Oval was slightly overshadowed by other developments in the football world. The Saints will now call their home Linen House Oval. While Linen House produce a brand of products under the Happy House name, it doesn't sound too good that they also sell items under the names Jinx and Hiccups.
A new name for Moorabbin Oval
If this is the same Linen House as the sponsor for the Saints then they better make sure they get what they sign up for. According to their internet site, Linen House said they were selling 100% goose down quilts but upon inspection it was only 50%. The Saints wouldn't want to get fleeced when buying sheets or have the wool pulled over their eyes when acquiring some pillow cases.
The Saints have aired their dirty laundry before, this sponsorship agreement will at least get them some clean stuff. The injuries for the Saints could also go down, if they want to keep a player in cotton-wool they now have a good supply of the product. If the play is crowded and someone says they could "throw a blanket over 16 players", for Saints’ games they can actually try that now. Their new coach has a long, guaranteed contract so he doesn't have to worry about having the rug pulled out from under him. Maybe this is a blanket statement, but you would think it would be difficult for the players there to refer to their home as Linen House Oval.
From now on Moorabbin Oval will be referred to as Linen House Oval on this site, but there won’t be any posts when James Gwilt is called James Quilt.
This is certainly huge news and will affect the Eagles immensely and will certainly make it difficult for the Eagles to travel to Sydney and record a win in round 1. According to the Eagles, “he just didn’t turn up to training”. More news could be released by the Eagles later in the day.
From the AFL site: West Coast suspend Cousins indefinitely
AFL Fantasy Impact:
If Cousins, who is a top 25 fantasy player, isn’t there for round 1 the Eagles have the depth in the midfield to create another fantasy star or two. Priddis is the cheap fantasy option to look at, if there is one thing Priddis does it is get the football and he should provide a lot of fantasy points. Stenglein, Embley, Fletcher and Braun should see a small increase in their stats. Rosa is another player with good fantasy value. When Cousins does return, there probably won’t be any reason to keep him out of fantasy teams.
Young Demons’ forward Lynden Dunn will miss a month or two after being injured in a VFL practice match. Melbourne have also announced that first round pick James Frawley will also miss a similar amount of time with a foot injury:
Injury news from the Melbourne Demons: Dunn out of action
AFL Fantasy Impact:
Dunn could have been a big fantasy sleeper this season if he was their centre half forward in round 1. That will be put on hold for a while, but he could still help the Demons and fantasy teams later in the season. Dunn was competing with Miller, and maybe Paul Johnson, for a spot on the forward line. Brad Miller is probably the player the Demons try now. Miller has been good for fantasy points in the past and right now his price is affordable. Frawley might have been a good player for a fantasy bench, now the Demons might use Bizzell, he was a good fantasy player several years ago and if Melbourne play him he could be value due to his low fantasy price.
Weird Al currently has a concert tour around Australia, and today’s trivia is about a slightly strange Allen.
Post a comment with the easy answer, what was the last name of Melbourne’s Allen who scored around 4 goals per game in the early to mid 1990s? Also, what team in the AFL did this player finish his career with?
The Cats have most of their team ready for round 1 but Steven King may not be there. Geelong have said he has a leg injury and he might not play. This could be a big chance for Blake, the Cats will need him to play most of the minutes as they wouldn't want to take Ottens or Mooney away from their forward spots for too long as they have both been kicking goals.
Story from the AFL: King hit by injury again
AFL Fantasy Impact:
Mark Blake is an interesting fantasy player this season. Blake is actually close to taking the starting ruck spot from King, and now if King is out for round 1 he gets it for at least one game. The value with Blake is in his fantasy price, you can afford to keep him on a fantasy bench as his price is quite low. If King is out and Blake's minutes are increased then he should get enough stats when compared to his fantasy cost. Blake won't get a huge amount of stats, but he gets involved in the middle of the ground and his handballs can add up. With some additional marks and hitouts he could be a solid fantasy ruckman when King is not playing. King didn't play in the Cats’ NAB Cup game against the Power and Blake had nearly 20 possessions, although it was in a very wet game with lots of stoppages for Blake to get involved in so he was in plenty of the action that night.
It is the start of the season and every team has a chance, here are the positives that the club has. Nothing negative, one hundred percent optimism. This isn't what you would get from an old, crunchy guy sitting on a couch, only a long-time supporter of the team would enter the season with this positive outlook. Anyone can win, in March 2005 the Swans were not a big favourite and in 1993 the Bombers came from out of nowhere to win, so all 16 teams can have the belief at the start of the season that they could be holding up the cup at the end of the year. This is why they will win it all.
A few years ago they had very high draft picks, those players are superstars now:
Griffen, Cooney and Ray went top 10 and now are an important part of the team.
Darcy is back, and he provides height and versatility:
The goal against the Eagles in the practice match shows he has confidence in his knee.
They got Akermanis:
He knows what is required to win it all.
They have a very good coach:
Eade is one of the best, and he has September experience as a player and a coach.
McDougall gives them an extra marking player:
One of McDougall's best ever games for the Eagles was against the Bulldogs, so they knew what they were getting when they traded for him.
West and Johnson are not slowing down:
Still Brownlow contenders, and Johnson isn't far off the Coleman as well.
They must be due:
It's been a long time since they won, this year is their best chance in a long time.
Minson and Street can compete with the league's big ruckmen:
That's a lot of size for the ruck spot.
Montgomery is their secret September weapon:
He was good last season, and also won with the Power a few years ago.
Chris Grant and the Bulldogs will be sentimental favourites for the finals:
If the Bulldogs are there for the last Saturday in September you can be sure that most of the "neutrals" who find their way to the MCG for the game will be cheering for the Bulldogs.
Next time: Why Fremantle Will Win In 2007
Go to the AFL site, register and sign up a team of 30 players. A bit simpler than other games as it is just totals for disposals and doesn’t take into account effectiveness.
AFL Dream Team
If you have any questions about AFL fantasy footy, or would like an opinion on your team, just post a comment, with your question and your fantasy team, on the site here.
This is a good deal for fans of the Lions, autographed jumpers worn by players in the NAB Cup games. There are match worn and player worn, so you can still get a jumper that draft picks Leuenberger and Proud wore even though they didn’t play in the games.
Brisbane Lions Online Auctions.
Click on memorabilia on the right of the page for the auction listings.
The Sherman, Notting and Rischitelli jumpers are bargains. If you want Brown, that will likely be over $1000. Fixter and Wood got reported during the game, adding a little story to the memorabilia. If you like your clothes with plenty of room in them then Wood, McDonald, Charman and Merrett are the ones to bid for. Smaller sizes would be Allan and Hooper.
1: Fremantle Dockers (1 in last AFL Power Rankings)
While Tarrant wasn't specifically brought in to kick goals, the Dockers will be happy with his recent effort of 4 goals in the practice match.
2: Western Bulldogs (2)
They beat the Eagles, that was important. Darcy should be ready for round 1.
3: Sydney Swans (3)
Crouch's return is a bonus. Jolly kicking goals could give them another weapon this season.
4: West Coast Eagles (4)
The Eagles will have Cox, Judd, Cousins and Kerr well prepared for round 1, that might be enough to defeat the Swans. Butler is expected to miss that game.
5: Adelaide Crows (5)
They just need to find another forward and they are a top 4 team, but time is running out to tryout more goal kickers, and the list of healthy forwards to choose from isn't that big at the moment.
6: Geelong Cats (7)
Their veterans are in good form, their young players are advanced in their development, there can't be any excuses from Geelong this season.
7: Melbourne Demons (6)
The Demons should be at full strength to start the season, they should not be underestimated.
8: Essendon Bombers (8)
Their opening match could be the second biggest for round 1, and with their height at all positions they could trouble the Crows.
9: Port Adelaide Power (10)
Going along fine without Tredrea, but Ebert and White may not be able to kick a winning score in round 1 against the Dockers.
10: Hawthorn Hawks (9)
If some more suspensions are handed down then the Hawks could struggle in the early rounds.
11: St Kilda Saints (15)
A win was good, but maybe a loss and an appearance by Riewoldt would have been better. Hayes' play was great, his report was not. Maguire has made a good comeback with a couple of games, Koschitzke might be ready for round 1 too.
12: Carlton Blues (13)
They can party like they did in 2005 after winning the preseason competition, that would not be a season they want to replicate. Everything is under control there except the ruck spot, they have been overcoming that as Stevens, Murphy and other onballers have been reading the ball off the opposition ruckman.
13: Collingwood Magpies (12)
They haven't had their best team playing, the return of Buckley and other stars will be very welcome.
14: Brisbane Lions (14)
If Brown, Charman and Patfull all line up for round 1 it could be a powerful forward setup. Although the Lions have been winning, the NAB Cup Grand Final showed the forward line needs some work.
15: Richmond Tigers (16)
They recorded their first preseason win so things are looking up. Coach Wallace also says that both Richardson and Simmonds could be there for round 1.
16: Kangaroos (11)
Nathan Thompson is out, and some want Laidley to follow. The Kangaroos round 1 match is a must-win.
It could be good news for Collingwood as Alan Didak might be there in round 1. When he injured his knee there was the possibility that Didak would miss a lot of season 2007 but he has been training for several weeks and could be ready to play in their opening game.
Story from The Age newspaper: Didak eyes start in round one
AFL Fantasy Impact:
With just a couple of kicks, Didak can turn a game. For fantasy AFL he is one of the better forwards, when he is healthy, as he combines goals and possessions. There would be a risk playing him in a round 1 fantasy team, as you would expect his playing time to be limited as he gets back into game-shape. If you want to trade for Didak after a couple of rounds then one strategy to try is to sign someone for the early rounds who won't be as effective later in the season. You could play someone like Ebert for a round or two, who should have better fantasy numbers in the early games with Tredrea out, and when Didak is back playing at his best you can trade away the other forward and add Didak.
It is the start of the season and every team has a chance, here are the positives that the club has. Nothing negative, one hundred percent optimism. This isn't what you would get from an old, crunchy guy sitting on a couch, only a long-time supporter of the team would enter the season with this positive outlook. Anyone can win, in March 2005 the Swans were not a big favourite and in 1993 the Bombers came from out of nowhere to win, so all 16 teams can have the belief at the start of the season that they could be holding up the cup at the end of the year. This is why they will win it all.
The Swans needed to find another ruckman and a tall forward, and they did that with one trade:
Peter Everitt was the perfect ruckman/forward for the Swans to add, and the trade cost of only a draft pick was a cheap price.
Roos is the calmest coach in AFL history:
The team plays like Roos coaches, in control.
Crouch is back:
A healthy Crouch could be the difference in this season's AFL Grand Final.
They have depth behind Hall if needed:
The Swans still have Vogels in reserve, but have also found goals from Ted Richards and Jesse White in preseason games.
Nick Davis is better prepared this season:
He is a player who can turn around a game with just a few plays.
Goodes is still the goods:
He's good, very good.
The old guys aren't really that old:
Barry, Kirk and Hall have plenty of years left.
Jolly will be concentrating on football in September 2007:
The 2006 game wasn't his best effort, that won't happen again.
Kennelly is still a Swan:
There are always rumours that he will go home, but he is back for at least one more year.
Next time: Why the Western Bulldogs Will Win In 2007
This is not going to be of any importance to AFL teams winning, and it is an everyday occurrence that often goes unnoticed, but when it does happen it can be slightly amusing. There are a lot of players with names that are difficult to spell, the list would include Rishooto, Kozitski, Jancircussueya and Row. Now even though the big media companies have editors, spell checkers, proof readers and computers to make sure the names appear as Ricciuto, Koschitzke, Giansiracusa and Roe there are plenty of names that slip through.
A slip up occurred at Fox Sports, Kouta is a name that is easily misspelled but to also get his captain's name wrong is something that doesn't happen very often. What even makes it worse is the names are on display in the story, so the scoring information on the right of the page is really inexcusable.
Goals
Carlton
Fevola 4
Fisher 4
Carrazzo 1
Koutifides 1
Russell 1
Scotland 1
Stevens 1
Witnell 1
Maybe they will get around to fixing it, but here is the page on the Fox Sports site: Blues ready for real stuff
Round 400 will always be remembered as the time Witnell led Carlton to victory, with some help from Koutifides.
Before the season starts, predictions for the leaders of the major AFL statistics categories can be posted, and at the end of the season you can go back and see how close the guesses were. Just copy the categories below, choose a player to have the most stats for the home and away season and then post it in the comments section below.
The 22 games of the regular season will be used. At the end of the season the official AFL statistics will be used and points will be allocated equal to a player's rank for the stats category. For example, if the predicted kicks leader is Luke Power and he finishes 4th in the AFL for kicks in 2007 that means 4 points, if the choice is O'Bree and he has the 80th most kicks for the year then that gets 80 points. The lowest score for the picks for ten stats is the overall winner. If a player is 100th or worse for the stats then 100 points will be the score for all those players. The best total score would be a 10, with 1 point for all the stats leaders.
Some ideas for picking the players you think will lead a statistical category:
Take into account players who are already suspended, injuries will also affect players. Have a look at the leaders from 2006, some will remain at the top of the stats while others will have a reduction. Other players will have a bigger role this season and could surprisingly top a category. Look at per game average stats from last season, a better idea of what players who were injured last season could do this year is to look at averages and then work out what that could equal for 22 games in 2007.
Predict the AFL stats leaders for 2007:
Most Kicks:
Most Handballs:
Most Total Disposals:
Most Marks:
Most Goals:
Most Behinds:
Most Hitouts:
Most Tackles:
Most Frees For:
Most Frees Against:
Andrew Walker: A midfield-type player for Carlton, but can be used in a back spot for fantasy.
Jordan Russell: You can't play him in fantasy teams yet, even though Carlton are playing him his stats are too low.
Marc Murphy: Is a bargain in fantasy leagues, will have stats and a fantasy price increase too.
Josh Kennedy: Might need an injury to Fevola or Whitnall for Kennedy to have a bigger role.
Brad Fisher: On current form he is undervalued in fantasy games.
Setanta O’hAilpin: Won't cost much to sign, his spoils don't equal fantasy points but he will probably get some marks and kicks.
Eddie Betts: Many small forwards have inconsistent stats, but they can average out to a useful number. Betts' disposals in preseason games have been up and down.
Nick Stevens: Is playing at a top level for fantasy stats.
Brendan Fevola: Could again lead the AFL in goals, so worth his fantasy price.
Cameron Cloke: Didn't have as many stats as he did in other NAB Cup games.
Jarrad Waite: Will be better for fantasy if he doesn't play on the best forwards, he will likely be played in a role around half back and has great fantasy potential this season.
Simon Wiggins: Doesn't have a spot with Fisher up forward.
Anthony Koutoufides: His price is too high as his playing time looks like it will be reduced this season.
Andrew Carrazzo: Seemed out of favour late last season but he is now a big part of their team and will be good for fantasy points.
Jonathan Brown: Not bad, for statistics, for his first game in a long time.
Chris Johnson: Just an average fantasy price, a player to consider.
Ben Fixter: Another Lion whose fantasy price is lower than his expected 2007 stats.
Scott Harding: Definitely a player to sign if he is there for round 1, very inexpensive and has been playing well.
Jed Adcock: Gets plenty of the ball and can be played as a defender in fantasy games.
Tim Notting: Injured his shoulder.
Ashley McGrath: Not getting enough of the ball in the forward line for fantasy stats.
Justin Sherman: A good fantasy player for years to come.
Matthew Tyler: Might be useful on a bench, very low price.
Jared Brennan: Very affordable, 2007 will be his best fantasy statistics year.
Cameron Wood: Has more fantasy potential than many higher-priced fantasy ruckmen.
Cheynee Stiller: Is getting up in fantasy price but he continues to get a lot of the ball.
Some big players were reported in the Hawks-Bombers game, Mooney continues to star in the forward line for Geelong and the Bulldogs took a big step with a win over the Eagles but Chris Grant was injured.
Hille, Bradley and Hodge were reported for striking, Hodge has two charges. Crawford is already suspended for round 1, his abusive language charge should only result in a fine. If Hille misses then Laycock has a big jump in fantasy value, at Hawthorn they would need to find Mitchell some help in the middle if both Crawford and Hodge misses round 1.
Story from the AFL site: Crawford reported again
Mooney and Wojcinski are two Cats who are undervalued in fantasy leagues. Nathan Ablett also has a low price, he did kick 2 goals in this game but is a bit of a risk to play in fantasy teams for round 1. Gardiner also kicked 2 goals and he is competing for N Ablett's spot. Johnstone costs quite a lot in fantasy games but he has been one of Melbourne's best players in both his preseason games so it is worth spending to have him on your team.
Mooney answers coach's call
Chris Grant may be available for round 1, if he does play he might be good for fantasy numbers with Harris out. Higgins has probably done enough over preseason to make it into their round 1 team, he continues to kick goals and his AFL fantasy price is among the lowest prices. Lynch had 4 goals, that is more than enough to make him an effective fantasy forward.
Grant hurt in Bulldogs win
It is the start of the season and every team has a chance, here are the positives that the club has. Nothing negative, one hundred percent optimism. This isn't what you would get from an old, crunchy guy sitting on a couch, only a long-time supporter of the team would enter the season with this positive outlook. Anyone can win, in March 2005 the Swans were not a big favourite and in 1993 the Bombers came from out of nowhere to win, so all 16 teams can have the belief at the start of the season that they could be holding up the cup at the end of the year. This is why they will win it all.
They won last year, they can win this year:
Brisbane won three in a row, Adelaide won a couple, teams can put together a streak of AFL Grand Final wins.
Cox is one of the few elite AFL ruckmen:
He is the league's best ruckman, or at least top 3, as long as he is there they are a contender.
Judd is there, and his shoulder has been fixed too:
If he has improved then the rest of the league is in trouble.
They traded away Michael Gardiner:
Last season he was still officially on their list, now he is someone else's problem.
They didn't lose much of their AFL Grand Final team:
Banfield retired, they can cover that loss easily.
They have quality backups for their midfield spots:
The Eagles may have the best midfield, but they also have depth to cover any injuries to their stars and Staker, Rosa or Priddis could step in if needed.
The Eagles drafted key positions prospects:
It won't take long for Brown and MacKenzie to compete for a senior spot.
It could be the return of Sampi:
The Eagles might want to add a small forward around Lynch, a rejuvenated Sampi could be the solution.
Adam Hunter is starting games in the forward line:
Last season there were some games when the Eagles would fall behind, Worsfold would then move Hunter forward and the comeback would be completed. Now Hunter is being played as a forward at the start of games, so maybe the Eagles won't be ever trailing on the scoreboard.
Next time: Why Sydney Will Win In 2007
The Saints and Tigers will have some momentum going into round 1 after winning their practice matches, the Dockers have shown that Pavlich and Tarrant can be an effective combination and the Power keep on running.
Nathan Brown, the Richmond one, kicked 4 goals and after a long absence from AFL fantasy teams will be a useful forward in 2007. Tambling was supposed to step up this year, and he did for this game, Tambling's fantasy price is a bit low compared to what his stats could be this year. Travis Cloke kicked a couple of goals and could be called upon to help Rocca as a marking target in the forward line, T Cloke has a low fantasy price.
Story from the AFL site: Tigers withstand Magpies surge
The Saints got the usual high quality game from Hayes as he returned from his knee injury, but there was also the unusual as Hayes was reported. Hayes was moving well and if he is available for round 1 it looks like he will be a good addition to fantasy teams. The Kangaroos will have to adjust as they will be without Thompson who injured his knee, Edwards is ready to take his place deep in the forward line. Hansen had a good game as a defender, he might be back in attack for the regular season, wherever he plays he will be good value at his low fantasy price.
Thompson out for season
Ebert kicked 4 goals and he can continue that for the real games as Tredrea won't be playing in the early rounds. Jolly might have had a decrease in fantasy points with Everitt arriving but in the preseason games he has been kicking goals which will give him more fantasy points, he kicked 2 in this game.
Williams praises resilient Port
Tarrant kicked 4 goals as the Dockers won, compared to a lot of other fantasy forwards the price for Tarrant is very affordable. Hasleby is another Docker who is a bit undervalued in fantasy leagues. The Crows had as many scoring shots as the Dockers in this game, they will need to keep looking for an effective forward setup and this could result in creating some unexpected fantasy players like Griffin or Tippett. Bode and Bock are playing well but the Crows will need to find them some help.
Fremantle beats wayward Adelaide
It is the start of the season and every team has a chance, here are the positives that the club has. Nothing negative, one hundred percent optimism. This isn't what you would get from an old, crunchy guy sitting on a couch, only a long-time supporter of the team would enter the season with this positive outlook. Anyone can win, in March 2005 the Swans were not a big favourite and in 1993 the Bombers came from out of nowhere to win, so all 16 teams can have the belief at the start of the season that they could be holding up the cup at the end of the year. This is why they will win it all.
They have the most complete back line in the AFL:
McLeod, Johncock, Mattner, Rutten and Bassett all provide drive from the back half.
They still have a top AFL ruckman:
Biglands is out but Hudson is back and the Crows have won games before with Hudson in the middle.
Ricciuto is not finished yet:
He will return to action soon.
Bock and Welsh are kicking goals:
If they can combine for 5 goals a game it could be enough, and in the preseason games they have been doing that.
Their older midfielders can still play:
Edwards and Goodwin will again be up the top of the AFL disposals rankings.
Burton can win a game with a few minutes of brilliance:
When the Crows won the cup they had Jarman, and now Burton is their unique weapon this century.
They have one of the best coaches in the AFL:
Coach Craig has the support of the players and the Adelaide fans.
Porplyzia, hard to spell but good to watch:
He is a good young player, in 2007 he will keep improving and could play every game.
They have already reached their injury allotment for the season:
Every season a club expects a certain number of injuries, the Crows have already exceeded this so maybe the rest of the season it balances out and everyone remains in good health.
Next time: Why West Coast Will Win In 2007
The Kangaroos were going along nicely until the last quarter a week ago, now they are going to have to rework their entire forward structure as Nathan Thompson could miss the year with a knee injury. Thompson was injured in the practice game against the Saints.
Story from Yahoo7 Sports: Roos lose Thompson for 2007 AFL season
Although some may use this injury as an excuse to put up the white flag for this season, it could also force the Kangaroos to change their game-plan and to push some of their youngsters into the action soon than they wanted, and their young players are up to the task. Hansen looked like going to their back line when he was drafted at number 3, now he should be unleashed as a high-flying forward target. Petrie, Watt and Firrito can handle the defensive duties this season allowing Hansen to play in attack. A forward line of Edwards, Hansen, Hale, Thomas and Campbell with help from players like Grant and Jones can kick a winning score.
AFL Fantasy Impact:
There was a chance that Edwards would get as many fantasy points as Thompson did this season, and kick as many goals as they both operated deep in the forward area. Now Aaron Edwards is going to be a much sought after fantasy forward. Edwards kicked 100 goals in the VFL last season and dominated many AFL-listed defenders, he won't kick 100 AFL goals this season but should lead the Kangaroos in goals. Edwards from the goal square, David Hale around half forward and maybe Lachlan Hansen or Leigh Brown as the third tall forward could be their setup. While Edwards at such a low fantasy price is the best option, Hansen is also an inexpensive player, Brown had a great game against Fremantle recently and Hale has an advantage in fantasy games as he can also be played in a ruck spot.
Right now there are more than a million people in the state of Victoria who are hoping that Chris Judd will move back home. Fans of every Victorian AFL club would be happy to have him on their team. 2007 could be the only chance the Victorian teams have of bringing back Judd.
The easiest way to get Judd, assuming that he does decide to look at all his options at the end of the year, is for a team to finish in 16th spot. Carlton picked McLaren and Ackland with their first overall preseason draft picks in recent years, their timing will have been just a bit off if Judd is ready to move to a new team using the preseason draft in 2007. There is a chance that the first pick in the 2007 preseason draft, and maybe even the second pick too, will be very valuable with both Judd and Pavlich possibly being uncontracted when the 2007 season concludes.
If Judd wants to pick his preferred team then a trade will have to be agreed to with the Eagles. High draft picks and quality players would need to be offered. Maybe Judd leads the Eagles to an early win streak and decides to sign a contract extension, or maybe he does wait until the season is over and his contract has expired. Here are some possible trade packages that might get Judd, although plenty of things can happen between now and the approximately seven months to go on Judd’s contract.
Carlton
1st round pick, Josh Kennedy and Paul Bower.
Kennedy would be a good marking player for Subiaco.
Collingwood
1st round pick, Alan Didak and Sean Rusling.
The Eagles need to add some scoring, this trade could fix that although there is an injury concern at the moment.
Essendon
2nd round pick, Scott Gumbleton and Keplar Bradley.
Another big WA prospect that the Eagles could target, Gumbleton would become a star for the Eagles.
Geelong
1st round pick and Joel Corey.
The Eagles wouldn't lose too much by moving Judd for Corey, and they also get a pick.
Hawthorn
Lance Franklin and Max Bailey.
How could anyone think about trading Franklin, but how could a team turn down a trade for Chris Judd, this would be a dilemma for the Hawks.
Kangaroos
1st round pick and Daniel Wells.
This trade would seem fair for both teams.
Melbourne
1st round pick, 2nd round pick, Brad Miller and Daniel Bell.
Melbourne could be the club that Judd would prefer to go to, but they don't have a lot of assets to trade.
Richmond
1st round pick, 2nd round pick, Richard Tambling, Andrew Krakouer and Jarrad Oakley-Nicholls.
The Tigers don't have a lot to offer, as their stars are too old to trade and their youngsters are mostly unproven.
St Kilda
2nd round pick and Justin Koschitzke.
If Kosckitzke changes teams it might change his luck, and the Eagles would certainly like him in their forward line.
Western Bulldogs
Adam Cooney, Ryan Hargrave and Mitch Hahn.
Cooney isn't Judd but he could help replace him in the Eagles' midfield.
From the AFL site: Judd contract talks “on hold”
From the Herald Sun: Judd up for grabs
The NAB Cup was very entertaining and took football all around Australia. The flooding was of the wet variety in these games, not players running into their back line. Extra time and the Chad Cornes miss provided the most entertaining game, and the biggest surprise was the form of Brisbane. It was certainly a difficult competition to tip the winners as the underdog teams won most of the matches. Only one person tipped even one Brisbane win in the NAB Cup, that was Psycosis. Here are the results from the NAB Cup tipping, which gave 1 point for tipping a round 1 win and 2 points for tipping the correct team in round 2. A new AFL competition will start here on the weekend and everyone can post a guess for the players who will be the most productive in season 2007.
NAB Cup Tipping Results
AFL Insider
7
djburls
6
PaddyOz
5
gavin1116
3
Psycosis
3
Seann_healy
2
The Power were planning for round 1 with the expectation that Warren Tredrea would be unavailable but now Dean Brogan and Peter Burgoyne are also unlikely starters. Brogan has a hamstring problem and Peter Burgoyne a thigh injury.
News from the AFL site: Port's Burgoyne, Brogan break down
AFL Fantasy Impact:
With Brogan missing round 1 it should make Lade the best ruckman for fantasy points. Lade is always up near the top of the rankings for fantasy ruckmen, even with Brogan playing, but he will get more playing time now. Peter Burgoyne’s injury will mean David Rodan will continue to play, the former Tiger looks like being a solid fantasy player this season. Even if Brogan and Burgoyne do play in round 1 they won’t be at their best, so wait a few games before adding them to fantasy teams. With Tredrea and Brogan both possibly out for round 1, it could be a good chance for Ryan Willits to play as he can go forward or into the ruck. Willits has a low fantasy price at the moment.
Hawthorn v Essendon
Hawthorn: 2. Jarryd Roughead, 3. Jordan Lewis, 5. Sam Mitchell, 6. Mark Williams, 8. Danny Jacobs, 9. Shane Crawford, 10. Chance Bateman, 12. Brad Sewell, 13. Simon Taylor, 14. Grant Birchall, 15. Luke Hodge, 17. Beau Muston, 18. Brent Guerra, 19. Ben Dixon, 20. Tim Boyle, 21. Richie Vandenberg, 22. Ben McGlynn, 23. Lance Franklin, 24. Trent Croad, 25. Tim Clarke, 26. Zac Dawson, 27. Stephen Gilham, 28. Matthew Little, 29. Tom Murphy, 30. Campbell Brown, 32. Xavier Ellis, 39. Robert Campbell, 45. Clinton Young.
What to watch, for picking AFL fantasy players:
Robert Campbell was supposed to have a big year in 2007, but in the other preseason games he has been sharing the ruck spot with Taylor. If Campbell is only getting half the ruck minutes during the regular season games it will really hit his fantasy numbers. Croad returns and the back line is his probable destination, he is very affordable in fantasy leagues. Dixon seems to have been around Hawthorn for a very long time, his fantasy points may be a bit low as he is no longer one of their first options in the forward line. Danny Jacobs has had an inconsistent career in the AFL but for fantasy stats he is much better, if Hawthorn once again have him patrolling around half back he could accumulate a lot of statistics.
Essendon: Mark Johnson, Ricky Dyson, Scott Gumbleton, Jobe Watson, James Hird, Angus Monfries, Leroy Jetta, Jason Winderlich, Mark McVeigh, Damien Peverill, Courtenay Dempsey, Kepler Bradley, Matthew Lloyd, David Hille, Henry Slattery, Courtney Johns, Mal Michael, Mark Bolton, Brent Stanton, Scott Lucas, Chris Heffernan, Jason Laycock, Alwyn Davey, Patrick Ryder, Dustin Fletcher, Adam McPhee, Nathan Lovett-Murray, Bachar Houli.
What to watch, for picking AFL fantasy players:
McPhee has missed a few games but could be back for this one, he is a possibility to have a much improved fantasy season. Lloyd is back and it is safe to spend big to add his goals to your fantasy team. If you want a cheaper player to offset the cost of the high-priced players then add Alwyn Davey. Sheedy has mentioned that Winderlich and Dyson will be players he expects to step up, they have low fantasy prices.
Geelong v Melbourne
Geelong: Steven King, Jimmy Bartel, Andrew Mackie, Travis Varcoe, Brad Ottens, Kane Tenace, Joel Corey, Joel Selwood, Charlie Gardiner, Shannon Byrnes, Nathan Djerrkura, Matthew Egan, Cameron Mooney, Henry Playfair, Nathan Ablett, Mark Blake, David Johnson, Matthew Scarlett, Brent Prismall, Paul Chapman, Darren Milburn, David Wojcinski, Corey Enright, Cameron Ling.
What to watch, for picking AFL fantasy players:
It might have been a bit risky to have Chapman in your round 1 fantasy team if he hadn't played in AFL preseason games but he is named here. Joel Selwood is back in the team too, he could be the best fantasy player from the 2006 AFL National Draft. There are not a lot of fantasy stars among AFL ruckmen, but even though Ottens is nearly always played as a forward by Geelong he is position eligible as a ruckmen in fantasy games. With the players that Geelong are playing in the ruck, King and Blake, it seems neither player will do enough for fantasy points if they continue to share the position. If Geelong go into round 1 with only one of them, which would probably be King, then it might be worth signing them for a fantasy spot.
Melbourne: 1. Simon Buckley, 2. Nathan Jones, 3. Clint Bizzell, 4. Ben Holland, 5. Brock McLean, 6. Matthew Bate, 7. Brad Miller, 8. James Frawley, 9. David Neitz, 10. Daniel Ward, 13. Adem Yze, 14. Lynden Dunn, 16. Travis Johnstone, 17. Chris Johnson, 20. Colin Garland, 21. Daniel Bell, 22. Brent Moloney, 24. Russell Robertson, 25. Nathan Brown, 27. Jared Rivers, 32. Cameron Bruce, 33. Byron Pickett, 34. Jeff White, 35. Ryan Ferguson, 36. Aaron Davey, 40. Mark Jamar, 41. Nathan Carroll, 45. Matthew Whelan.
What to watch, for picking AFL fantasy players:
Moloney could be a big fantasy steal, his injuries last season have significantly lowered his fantasy price. Chris Johnson, Bizzell, Frawley and maybe Pickett could be good value with low prices.
West Coast v Western Bulldogs
West Coast: 2. Mark LeCras, 3. Chris Judd, 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, 32. Andrew Embley, 35. Steven Armstrong, 38. Brett Jones, 39. Adam Hunter, 41. Brent Staker, 44. David Wirrpanda, 45. Jamie McNamara.
What to watch, for picking AFL fantasy players:
The Eagles are close to their team from last season so expect similar fantasy points from most of their players. Priddis and Rosa have good fantasy value at the moment, one or both of them could be there in round 1.
Western Bulldogs: Dylan Addison, Jason Akermanis, Matthew Boyd, Adam Cooney, Daniel Cross, Luke Darcy, Nathan Eagleton, Andrejs Everitt, Cameron Faulkner, Daniel Giansiracusa, Lindsay Gilbee, Chris Grant, Ryan Griffen, Ryan Hargrave, Shaun Higgins, Chris Johnson, Andrew McDougall, Jordan McMahon, Will Minson, Brett Montgomery, Dale Morris, Robert Murphy, Sam Power, Farren Ray, Matthew Robbins, Wayde Skipper, Scott West, Cameron Wight.
What to watch, for picking AFL fantasy players:
It is a long time ago when Chris Grant was rated a 9 or 10 in The Age newspaper fantasy AFL game, he is very affordable now and for the first couple of rounds with Harris out he might be a good fantasy option. This game might show if he is going to play in the back line and what his role is. The more Street is out the better Minson's stats should be, and you wouldn't expect the Bulldogs to play Darcy in the ruck for the early rounds so Minson could be quite useful for fantasy teams. McDougall against his old team is also something to watch, it looks like McDougall could be an underrated fantasy player this season
It is the start of the season and every team has a chance, here are the positives that the club has. Nothing negative, one hundred percent optimism. This isn't what you would get from an old, crunchy guy sitting on a couch, only a long-time supporter of the team would enter the season with this positive outlook. Anyone can win, in March 2005 the Swans were not a big favourite and in 1993 the Bombers came from out of nowhere to win, so all 16 teams can have the belief at the start of the season that they could be holding up the cup at the end of the year. This is why they will win it all.
Gary Ablett has the Ablett skills:
He's an Ablett, and he's even better than he was last year.
Mooney has found a happy spot:
Lots of goals, and zero reports, with Mooney playing well at centre half forward.
Varcoe is ready to go:
He came into the AFL with an injury and only managed a few VFL games, but now number 5 is alive.
Selwood was not supposed to last to Geelong's pick:
There may have been plenty of quality in the draft but Joel Selwood was not expected to get past Brisbane and Port Adelaide, the Cats were very lucky.
It is the last year of the coach's contract:
He either wins and stays, or the Cats can now afford to bring in another coach.
They are the only Victorian team with a home ground advantage:
Kardinia Park is still a venue that teams don't want to visit.
Hawkins is a gun who is also the son of a gun:
Tommy Gun Hawkins should be firing in the Cats' forward line for years to come.
Ottens is as good as he ever has been:
Unstoppable in the first NAB Cup game, the Cats made sure that he would be ready to start the season with full fitness.
Kingsley has vacated Kardinia Park:
According to some of their fans it was Kingsley who was the reason they would lose, since he's gone that must mean Geelong will win now.
Their defenders are ready to Hunt:
Josh and Sam are versatile backmen and both can kick the ball a long way.
The father/son rule has loaded the team with talent:
They have a ruckman, nearly an entire forward line and a big defender thanks to the father/son rule.
Next time: Why Adelaide Will Win In 2007
A forgotten piece of memorabilia, signed by the Chief Executive Officer of the AFLPA. Here is your chance to get an inexpensive Brendon Gale jumper. Not just a signed jumper, but from an important year of the AFL too.
AFL Centenary Signed Richmond Football Jumber
A good story also accompanies this bargain as it was "found in the top of a cupboard", although the jumper is not as old as some might think as the wording "the 100th Centenary" would mean the AFL is now 10,011 years old. A "Brandon Gale Jumber", you can't beat that.
Carlton: 1. Andrew Walker, 2. Jordan Russell, 3. Marc Murphy, 4. Bryce Gibbs, 5. Josh Kennedy, 6. Kade Simpson, 7. Adam Bentick, 8. Lance Whitnall, 11. Cain Ackland, 12 Matthew Lappin, 13. Luke Blackwell, 14. Brad Fisher, 16. Shaun Grigg, 17. Setanta O’hAilpin, 18. Paul Bower, 19. Eddie Betts, 23. Adam Hartlett, 24. Nick Stevens, 25. Brendan Fevola, 28. Cameron Cloke, 29. Heath Scotland, 30. Jarrad Waite, 32. Bret Thornton, 33. Ryan Houlihan, Simon Wiggins, 38. Ryan Jackson, 43. Anthony Koutoufides, 44. Andrew Carrazzo.
What to watch, for picking AFL fantasy players:
Fisher had solid stats last game without Kennedy playing, there may not be enough space around the forward line for both players to get good fantasy numbers for the regular season and now Wiggins has been added too as another possible forward. Whitnall and Koutoufides have been going to the bench a lot in NAB Cup games, that won't be good for their stats. Blackwell has been named for this game, if he is there in round 1 then he has fantasy value, he is among the lower-priced midfielders in AFL fantasy leagues. Cameron Cloke will use his mobility to battle a couple of giant ruckmen, if this is again effective for Carlton then Cloke could be a cheap ruck option for fantasy teams.
Brisbane Lions: 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, 20. Simon Black, 21. Daniel Merrett, 24. Joel Patfull, 25. Wayde Mills, 29. Jason Roe, 30. Robert Copeland, 31. Cameron Wood, 32. Cheynee Stiller, 35. Michael Rischitelli, 36. Daniel Bradshaw, 40. Will Hamill, 42. Marcus Allan, 43. Beau McDonald, 46. Colm Begley.
What to watch, for picking AFL fantasy players:
Brown should be there, although his name isn't on the list above. Assuming he does play, that game should prepare him enough for their round 1 game against Hawthorn. Brown could bring in a lot of fantasy points against the Hawks. Colm Begley could be brought onto their senior list soon, he has been a very good player for them in the preseason games, his fantasy price is on the low side for AFL defenders. Moody and Fixter are cheap fantasy players for the centre position. Another possible fantasy bargain on the Lions is forward Patfull.
Jonathan Brown is the big news concerning the NAB Cup Grand Final. Where he plays, how many minutes he gets and who plays on him could determine the winner of the match.
It's been a long time since Brown played a game. His endurance is not going to be there so playing Brown close to goals is the logical move for the Lions. Charman and Patfull have been useful around half forward in the previous games and if they continue in that role it will eliminate the need for Brown to lead further up the ground.
Brown wants to be on the ground for the entire game, his coach would prefer him to have a lot of time on the bench and for his playing time to be limited. The best result could be giving Brown a rest for parts of the second and third quarters. Brown should start the game, as it doesn't make sense for him to warm up to play and then immediately sit. If the game is close, and it probably will be, Brown should be able to play the entire fourth quarter.
Waite says he is ready to play on Brown, Thornton also mentioned he can do it. The name that hasn't been mentioned is Setanta O'hAilpin. The big Irishman has the added height that could be important against Brown. None of the three Carlton backmen will be able to compete physically with Brown but O'hAilpin will have a good chance at spoiling in marking contests. The big Setanta could be the best option at full back, and if Brown does play around half forward then Waite would be the better choice. Waite's mobility and reading of the play would be useful in the larger spaces at half back.
It will be a wait-and-see approach to see if Waite plays on Brown, or if Carlton go with another option. Whatever happens it could have a big impact on the game. Although there is also the intriguing matchup down the other end of the ground. Who does Fevola get, the options for the Lions would be Brennan, Merrett or maybe Roe or Mills, and there is even the chance that there could be an Irish full back at both ends as Colm Begley could be another option that Matthews considers to play against Fevola.
From the Carlton site: Waite wary but eager to take on Brown
Kangaroos v St Kilda
Kangaroos squad: 1. Hamish McIntosh, 3. Brady Rawlings, 4. Daniel Harris, 11. Glenn Archer, 12. Lindsay Thomas, 13. David Trotter, 15. Kasey Green, 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, 34. Gavin Urquhart, 35. Ben Warren, 36. Shannon Watt, 40. Leigh Adams, 42. Scott McMahon, 43. Matt Campbell, 44. Djaran Whyman.
What to watch, for picking AFL fantasy players:
There can be only a couple of bigger forwards teamed with Thompson in their forward setup so Hale, Hansen, Edwards and Brown could be competing for two positions. For fantasy leagues, Hansen and Edwards are very inexpensive. Watt has been impressive in the NAB Cup games, he might have his best statistical year in 2007.
St Kilda squad: 36. Jarryd Allen, 43. Jayden Attard, 10. Steven Baker, 14. Luke Ball, 22. Shane Birss, 27. Jason Blake, 24. Barry Brooks, 28. Matthew Clarke, 3. Xavier Clarke, 26. Nick Dal Santo, 17. Aaron Fiora, 6. Leigh Fisher, 25. Sam Fisher, 42. Jarryn Geary, 9. Fraser Gehrig, 18. Brendon Goddard, 1. Jason Gram, 33. James Gwilt, 35. Robert Harvey, 7. Lenny Hayes, 23. Justin Koschitzke, 31. Matt Maguire, 32. Andrew McQualter, 44. Stephen Milne, 11. Leigh Montagna, 29. Michael Rix, 4. Andrew Thompson, 13. Brett Voss.
What to watch, for picking AFL fantasy players:
Maguire is surprisingly ahead of a lot of other Saints who are trying to overcome injuries and Maguire should be ready for round 1. Hayes and Koschitzke are also named, it might take a few rounds of the real AFL games for Hayes to get to his best, and with his high fantasy price you will only want to play him when he is at the top of his game. Maybe Hayes gets over 20 possessions in this game, if he does that you can disregard everything else and play him in round 1. Xavier Clarke has some value this season as a fantasy player, he doesn't cost a lot and he has been playing well.
Richmond v Collingwood
Richmond squad: 1. Chris Newman, 2. Darren Gaspar, 3. Brett Deledio, 4. Andrew Raines, 6. Graham Polak, 7. Nathan Brown, 11. Joel Bowden, 13. Trent Knobel, 14. Dean Polo, 15. Kayne Pettifer, 16. Patrick Bowden, 17. Kane Johnson, 21. Shane Tuck, 22. Danny Meyer, 25. Jay Schulz, 26. Adam Pattison, 27. Andrew Krakouer, 30. Richard Tambling, 31. Chris Hyde, 32. Greg Tivendale, 38. Luke McGuane, 40. Kelvin Moore, 41. Nathan Foley, 43. Cam Howat, 44. Angus Graham, 46. Jacob King.
What to watch, for picking AFL fantasy players:
This game is a chance for Howat, Graham and King to show they should be elevated from the rookie list. Howat already has a history of producing fantasy stats, his price is probably just below average for a midfielder so he still has value. The fantasy price for Graham or King would be the lowest in the fantasy leagues, right now they aren't anywhere near Howat for fantasy numbers.
Collingwood squad: 1. Leon Davis, 7. Paul Medhurst, 8. James Clement, 10. Scott Pendlebury, 11. Shane O'Bree, 12. Shannon Cox, 13. Dale Thomas, 14. Shane Wakelin, 15. Chris Egan, 17. Scott Burns, 18. Paul Licuria, 19. Ben Davies, 20. Ben Reid, 21. Guy Richards, 22. Rhyce Shaw, 23. Anthony Rocca, 24. Tarkyn Lockyer, 25. Josh Fraser, 26. Ben Johnson, 27. Nick Maxwell, 30. Harry O'Brien, 32. Travis Cloke, 33. Brad Dick, 34. Alan Toovey, 35. Simon Prestigiacomo, 36. Dane Swan, 39. Heath Shaw, 40. Chris Bryan.
What to watch, for picking AFL fantasy players:
Pendlebury and Thomas are still value for fantasy price. Rocca is another player who could be undervalued in fantasy leagues. Ben Reid won't cost a lot this season, this game could get him a round 1 spot.
Sydney v Port Adelaide
Sydney squad: 1. Barry Hall, 2. Nick Davis, 3. Jarrad McVeigh, 4. Ben Mathews, 5. Ryan O’Keefe, 6. Craig Bolton, 9. Nick Malceski, 10. Peter Everitt, 12. Nic Fosdike, 16. Darren Jolly, 17. Tadhg Kennelly, 18. Jesse White, 19. Michael O'Loughlin, 21. Leo Barry, 22. Matthew Laidlaw, 24. Jude Bolton, 25. Ted Richards, 26. Sean Dempster, 28. Jared Crouch, 29. Jonathan Simpkin, 31. Brett Kirk, 32. Amon Buchanan, 33. Jarred Moore, 36. Tim Schmidt, 37. Adam Goodes, 38. Luke Vogels, 46. Sam Rowe, 47. Simon Phillips.
What to watch, for picking AFL fantasy players:
The Swans are getting close to their best team. One inclusion who is a bit of a surprise is Jared Crouch, due to his injuries last season he has a lowish fantasy price.
Port Adelaide squad: 41. Greg Bentley, 10. Travis Boak, 20. Dean Brogan, 7. Peter Burgoyne, 25. Domenic Cassisi, 30. Troy Chaplin, 34. Adam Cockshell, 35. Chad Cornes, 18. Kane Cornes, 33. Brett Ebert, 29. Nathan Krakouer, 5. Brendon Lade, 44. Tom Logan, 12. Nathan Lonie, 22. Josh Mahoney, 4. Daniel Motlop, 16. Danyle Pearce, 36. Michael Pettigrew, 15. David Rodan, 3. Steven Salopek, 9. Jacob Surjan, 23. Brad Symes, 6. Adam Thomson, 28. Toby Thurstans, 2. Darryl Wakelin, 39. Justin Westhoff, 11. Ryan Willits, 21. Michael Wilson.
What to watch, for picking AFL fantasy players:
The Power are getting close to their team for round 1, there are still a few places open and a midfield spot and a tall forward spot could produce a cheap fantasy player. Tredrea is not expected to be there for round 1 and in this game the Power will see if Willits, Pettigrew, Thurstans or Cockshell can provide a marking target up forward. Maybe Boak is in the running for a midfield position, like all first year players he won't cost a lot for fantasy leagues.
Adelaide v Fremantle
Adelaide squad: 3. Kris Massie, 4. Kurt Tippett, 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, 15. Jason Torney, 17. Scott Welsh, 18. Graham Johncock, 21. Chris Knights, 22. Ian Perrie, 23. Andrew McLeod, 24. Brett Burton, 25. Ben Rutten, 26. Richard Douglas, 27. Scott Stevens, 28. Bernie Vince, 33. Brent Reilly, 36. Simon Goodwin, 39. Martin Mattner, 40. Jason Porplyzia, 44. Nathan Bock.
What to watch, for picking AFL fantasy players:
The Crows' forward setup is something to watch, it will probably be Welsh, Bock and Perrie in the tall spots for round 1. This game should see goals from those three but it will also be a chance for Griffin or Tippett to push for a round 1 spot as a backup forward/ruckman. Both young giants are very cheap in fantasy leagues, and Griffin also kicked a couple of goals in Adelaide's NAB Cup game.
Fremantle squad: Peter Bell, Andrew Browne, Adam Campbell, Josh Carr, Matt Carr, Ryan Crowley, Steven Dodd, Paul Duffield, Daniel Gilmore, Antoni Grover, Robert Haddrill, Paul Hasleby, Des Headland, Roger Hayden, Garrick Ibbotson, Justin Longmuir, Shaun McManus, Luke McPharlin, David Mundy, Ryan Murphy, Shane Parker, Matthew Pavlich, Brett Peake, Aaron Sandilands, Dean Solomon, Chris Tarrant, James Walker, Luke Webster.
What to watch, for picking AFL fantasy players:
With Farmer suspended, and the addition of a couple of new players, the Dockers' forward line could look a bit different for round 1. Where the goals come from could determine several players fantasy value, Longmuir could play deep in the forward line and a couple of goals a game would really help his fantasy numbers. Browne has been effective in a small forward role and he might be there in round 1. This game could also show where Tarrant and Solomon will be played and if that will increase their stats.
It is the start of the season and every team has a chance, here are the positives that the club has. Nothing negative, one hundred percent optimism. This isn't what you would get from an old, crunchy guy sitting on a couch, only a long-time supporter of the team would enter the season with this positive outlook. Anyone can win, in March 2005 the Swans were not a big favourite and in 1993 the Bombers came from out of nowhere to win, so all 16 teams can have the belief at the start of the season that they could be holding up the cup at the end of the year. This is why they will win it all.
Jeff White is one of the most athletic ruckmen in the AFL:
If he is healthy then the Demons can be a contender, and right now he is healthy.
Their midfield is loaded with young stars:
The midfield has plenty of young, tough players like Brock McLean, Brent Moloney, Nathan Jones and many more.
They have a settled team with very few offseason changes:
Other teams are figuring out where to play their new players, the Demons enter the season with everyone knowing their place and their role.
Neitz is one of the few dominating power forwards in the AFL:
The full backs of the AFL are not going to be able to stop him with the new rule interpretations, not that they could stop him before anyway.
There are not many players with more skills than Cameron Bruce:
He can do everything and play anywhere, he can win a game by himself.
Lynden Dunn is ready to take the next step:
2007 should be his big year, with plenty of marks around half forward for the Demons.
Daniher is certainly experienced in the coaching job:
He has already taken Melbourne to the AFL Grand Final, he can do it again.
Jared Rivers is an elite tall defender:
If he's not in the All-Australian team this year then maybe new team selectors should be found.
Frawley seems to be way ahead of schedule:
Their draft picks were supposed to contribute in a couple of years, but Frawley can help them right now.
Pickett can still scare teams:
He has a win with the Kangaroos, and also with the Power, maybe he can be the difference for the Demons in September 2007.
Next time: Why Geelong Will Win In 2007
During his coaching career at two clubs, Terry Wallace has made a lot of choices between a small or a tall player, in the drafts and trades he has often opted for the little guy. It looks like he now has to pick a player from Richmond's rookie list to elevate to the senior team. The choice is the big ruckman or the quality small onballer.
Mark Coughlan's injury opens up the roster spot, but it is Troy Simmonds health that could determine the type of player that the Tigers elevate. Polak can play in the ruck but he is needed in the back line, Pattison has ruck size but right now he is probably better as a forward. Knobel might be the Tigers' ruckman for round 1, or even longer if Simmonds isn't ready, and big Angus Graham could be promoted from the rookie list to be Knobel's backup. Graham at 200cm can add the size Richmond want.
The Tigers do need the extra height, but to address that need instead of elevating Cameron Howat would be a big decision. Howat was up near the top of Richmond's preseason rankings, he was very good when played last season and his preseason form has been good as well. Howat had 18 possessions and a goal against the Eagles in round 22 last year, he can play.
Story on the Richmond site: Graham in frame to boost ruck division
There are some who accept the umpire's decision, there are others who complain, and then there is Anthony Rocca who really gets his point across. This video is a great example of the saying "he who laughs last, laughs loudest". The umpire may have thought he was a big man, but Anthony Rocca certainly puts him in his place. The link will take you to the Youtube site, AFL Heritage Round 16 Collingwood VS Eagles - Rocca incident.
This highlight doesn't just have Rocca performing, there is also plenty of Robert Walls' positive and uplifting commentary which includes "stupid", "immature" and the always helpful "pull your head in".
That Frank Spencer guy falling off ladders and crashing through windows is quite amusing, and watching Benny Hill run around at the end of his show is always entertaining, but maybe for this one occasion the NAB Cup Grand Final could be shown at an earlier time in all states.
If fans of the Lions have to not only sit through the comedy shows but also a Rocky Maivia movie to see the NAB Cup Grand Final it won't be very fair. It may not be the last Saturday in September but it is still a game played for a trophy.
Below is the TV schedule for Saturday evening from the Yahoo7 site. If a Brisbane fan would like to leave a comment to confirm that the NAB Cup game is actually on so late, or if the game's televised time has now been changed, that would be very helpful.
Channel 7 TV Schedule
- Melbourne VIC
SATURDAY 17 March
06:30 pm The Great Outdoors G TV-G Travel
07:30 pm 2007 NAB Cup G TV-G Sport
10:00 pm Great Comedy Classics PG TV-PG Comedy
- Brisbane QLD
SATURDAY 17 March
06:30 pm The Great Outdoors G TV-G Travel
07:30 pm Great Comedy Classics PG TV-PG Comedy
09:45 pm Walking Tall M TV-M Action
11:30 pm 2007 NAB Cup G TV-G Sport
- Sydney NSW
SATURDAY 17 March
06:30 pm The Great Outdoors G TV-G Travel
07:30 pm Great Comedy Classics PG TV-PG Comedy
09:45 pm Walking Tall M TV-M Action
11:30 pm 2007 NAB Cup G TV-G Sport
There has been plenty of news out of Adelaide about the Crows’ injury problems and it seems confirmed that Ricciuto and McGregor will join the list of players who will be unavailable for round 1. Other injured Crows include Biglands, Hentschel, Meesen, Maric, Hinge, Gill and Campbell.
Injury news for Ricciuto and McGregor from the Crows’ site:
McGregor return delayed
AFL Fantasy Impact:
Ricciuto used to be one of the first players picked for AFL fantasy teams, now injuries have robbed him of the ability to consistently accumulate fantasy points. When he does come back, and has a few games played, he could be a good fantasy forward to sign. While the Crows did announce bad news about Ricciuto there was also a mention of Jason Porplyzia being ready to play, Porplyzia can be played as a forward in some AFL fantasy games so while the Crows use him in the middle of the ground he could take Ricciuto’s place as a forward for fantasy teams. McGregor could have had a much bigger role, and more fantasy points, this season as the Crows have lost a lot of other talls. McGregor will be a player to consider when he does play, especially if any more Crows’ talls are out. With all the injuries at Adelaide it should make Bock and Welsh more effective fantasy forwards, and Burton and Bode should continue to have big fantasy numbers as they are eligible as a forward but spend plenty of time up the ground getting disposals too.
It is the start of the season and every team has a chance, here are the positives that the club has. Nothing negative, one hundred percent optimism. This isn't what you would get from an old, crunchy guy sitting on a couch, only a long-time supporter of the team would enter the season with this positive outlook. Anyone can win, in March 2005 the Swans were not a big favourite and in 1993 the Bombers came from out of nowhere to win, so all 16 teams can have the belief at the start of the season that they could be holding up the cup at the end of the year. This is why they will win it all.
Hodge and Mitchell are one of the best young midfield combinations:
They will combine for 50 to 60 possessions a game.
They have Lance Franklin:
He's good.
Birchall is a star:
He was a draft steal for the Hawks and is a future All-Australian.
Mark Williams is one of the better small forwards, and one of the most accurate:
They are adding taller forward options but they still have Williams who can give them 50 goals.
Veterans Croad, Crawford and Smith can still contribute:
Croad and Crawford can still win a game for Hawthorn, while Smith provides depth and experience in the back line.
Drafting Tuck and now Kennedy will bring Hawthorn's tradition back:
The Hawks were contenders all the other times they had a Tuck and a Kennedy.
Ellis could be their X-factor:
Xavier will arrive soon.
Trading Everitt was the right move with Campbell and Taylor ready:
Campbell showed last year that he can be their starting ruckman and Simon Taylor has also improved his game.
Brown and Guerra provide the strength Hawthorn was lacking:
Over the past few seasons the Hawks have been missing something, Brown and Guerra might not be Dermie and Dipper but they do provide a needed element.
They will win most, or maybe all, of their Tasmanian games:
The games in Tasmania should not only provide help on the financial side but the home ground advantage should also bring in more wins.
Next time: Why Melbourne Will Win In 2007
The Eagles look like they won't be able to consider Sam Butler for their round 1 game against the Swans. So far there is no official news about this from the Eagles so maybe they have not ruled him out yet.
News about Butler from thewest.com.au :
Butler out of running for Swans showdown
AFL Fantasy Impact:
He's one of the versatile players that Worsfold can use in several positions. He might replace him with another versatile player, like Brent Staker, or he could look for a player to address a specific requirement. For round 1 the Eagles might need another tall defender to combat Everitt, Jaymie Graham would fit that role. If he wants a midfield player to replace Hunter than that could mean Priddis stays in the team for round 1. Priddis should be a good fantasy player when the Eagles give him a chance.
Injuries, suspensions, poor form, retirements and just what their coach thinks of them could make the following players a detriment to a Fantasy AFL team, at least for the early rounds of the season. Here are just some of the players who you may not want to sign and play for your fantasy team's opening match.
B Raphael Clarke (injury)
B Ray Hall (injury)
B Jesse Smith (injury)
B Michael Johnson (suspension)
B Ken McGregor (injury)
B Brian Harris (suspension)
B Paul Bevan (injury)
B Lewis Roberts-Thomson (injury)
B Jonathan Hay (retired)
C Shane Crawford (suspension, but just 1 game)
C Mark Coughlan (injury)
C Adam Schneider (injury)
C Brodie Holland (suspension)
C Byron Schammer (injury)
C James Kelly (suspension)
C Matthew Stokes (suspension)
C Nigel Lappin (injury)
R Rhett Biglands (injury)
R Max Bailey (injury)
R John Meesen (injury)
R Robert Warnock (injury)
F Trent Hentschel (injury)
F Sean Rusling (injury)
F Kent Kingsley (injury)
F Rhan Hooper (missed preseason)
F Fergus Watts (injury)
F Chris Scott (injury)
F Aaron Hamill (injury)
F Jeff Farmer (suspension)
F Leigh Harding (injury)
Other players who may not be ready for round 1 or could be out for much longer, for various reasons, could include Michael Gardiner, Tom Hawkins, Chris Dawes, Troy Simmonds, Ivan Maric, Alan Didak, Nick Gill, Mark Ricciuto, Jared Crouch, Steve Johnson, Luke Ablett, Sam Butler, Mitch Hahn and Richard Hadley. But check the injury news at the team websites for all the players listed here for up to date injury details. There is also plenty of time between now and the start of the regular season for other players to get injured or for some of the above players to make an unexpected recovery.
The preseason games have shown the improvement in some players and have also given a glimpse of the potential for a number of young players and now that fantasy prices are being released there are a few bargains that could help you win in AFL fantasy games. An investment for your bench, a money saving option so you can afford more expensive stars or maybe you can start some of these players. All these players are among the lowest in fantasy price at their position.
Lindsay Thomas:
A very cheap player, but judging his potential by his great stats in preseason he should be a huge fantasy steal.
Bryce Gibbs:
Should play every game for the Blues, and should be on many fantasy teams.
Alwyn Davey:
Sheedy seems ready to put him in their forward line, fantasy managers should do the same.
Aaron Edwards:
It looks like the Kangaroos need to play him, a fantasy forward with a low price but a good chance of kicking plenty of goals.
Jason Winderlich:
2007 could be his breakout year and his fantasy price is quite low so there is little risk in signing him.
Cameron Cloke:
It's unbelievable, he could be an above-average fantasy ruckman this season.
Sam Hunt:
This could be the biggest steal of the lot, he has played AFL before but his price doesn't reflect that. If the Cats keep playing him then he should quadruple in value.
Justin Koschitzke:
His price is actually so low that it could be justified putting him on a fantasy bench. Of course if he returns to his past form his stats will be among the top 100 players.
Joel Selwood:
There is no logical reason why the Cats wouldn't have him in their senior team, he should also be on many AFL fantasy teams.
Jonathon Griffin:
He is one of the few healthy talls for the Crows, he showed he could kick goals in the NAB Cup game and his price is very low.
Travis Varcoe:
Has the advantage over the first-year, low-priced players as he was with Geelong last season too, he is more than ready for AFL football.
David Rodan:
His preseason stats were a lot better than expected, his fantasy price was lower than expected.
Simon Taylor:
Has been playing more in preseason games, if that continues he might do enough for stats with his low fantasy price.
Sean Dempster:
Has a cheap price and with LRT sitting he has a role to play for the Swans now.
Andrew Browne:
Farmer's possible replacement for the Dockers, and a cheap fantasy option.
Matt Riggio:
Has done enough to have a spot in the Kangaroos' team and his price is so low he should have a spot in fantasy teams too.
Chris Knights:
A few of the Crows' smaller players have been slowed with injuries, Knights is ready to take their place in round 1.
Tom Hawkins:
There has to be a time in the season when Ottens gets hurt or Mooney gets suspended, and then Hawkins will have a big game, at a low fantasy price.
Richard Cole:
If Essendon name him for round 1 then a fantasy spot might make sense as his cost is quite low.
Daniel Merrett:
Doesn't cost a lot and will play every game, will get some stats but not a lot.
Tim Boyle:
Kicking goals every game now for the Hawks, although it's just preseason, and his price is very low.
Clint Bizzell:
Old now but he used to be a defender with a lot of the ball, his fantasy price is low enough to take a risk on playing him if the Demons do.
Xavier Ellis:
Still cheap in fantasy leagues, he should have some good games this season.
Nathan Ablett:
He's an Ablett, his fantasy price is low, could be worth a roster spot.
Matt Tyler:
Could depend on how many talls they get back for their first game but Tyler could keep his spot in the team.
David Armitage:
Injuries have mostly hit the Saints' bigs, but a couple of their small players also have injury problems and Armitage is a likely starter for their round 1 team.
Josh Kennedy:
This is the Carlton one, a low price really undervalues his potential as a big-marking forward.
Djaran Whyman:
Had a brief run in the NAB Cup games, he is a player that Laidley might play this season.
Jack Riewoldt:
They are running out of talls at Richmond, if Jack is healthy then he could be playing in their senior team.
Matthew Campbell:
Might as well remember him when selecting fantasy players even though he is currently a rookie. With Harding, and his long-term injury, and Hay going away the Kangaroos should be able to elevate Campbell to the senior list, although right now it seems they won't be able to replace Hay with a rookie.
Crawford shouldn't be too unhappy because it seems like he got two for the price of one, the striking charges for incidents with Bell and Dunn only resulted in one week off. Geelong's James Kelly is out for two weeks, it looked similar to what Stokes did but Kelly received a shorter suspension.
News from the AFL: Crawford accepts one-match suspension
AFL Fantasy Impact:
If Crawford was in your fantasy team you might want to move him out, and bring him back for round 2. Or if you really want Crawford on your team you could conserve your trades and sit him for the first week and play one of your bench midfielders. Kelly's two game suspension will open a spot in the Cats' midfield, possibly for J Selwood. You could put the two ideas together, if Joel Selwood is named for round 1 you could start him and then for round 2 you could start Crawford and put Selwood back on your bench. While Selwood is a player who could have a bigger role at Geelong with Kelly out, at Hawthorn it could be Bateman or Clarke who see an increase in stats as Crawford misses.
Brisbane may be the underdog for the 2007 NAB Cup Grand Final, but they were also the underdog for their previous three matches so they should not be taken lightly. Brisbane could add another cup against Carlton but the question for today is when they won their first trophy. Leave a comment if you know what year and in which form of AFL/VFL competition, preseason, reserves or seniors, that Brisbane won their first premiership.
Adelaide have been playing Bock and Welsh as their key forwards but it looks like they will also have Ian Perrie back for round 1. Perrie might play against Fremantle in a practice match so that should be enough preparation for him to play against Essendon in round 1.
Go to the story from Adelaide newspaper The Advertiser for news on Perrie's return and other information about the Crows' injury list:
Perrie given green light
AFL Impact:
Bock and Welsh would have had better fantasy numbers if they were the only two tall forwards playing for Adelaide, they won't lose many stats to Perrie and will continue to kick goals. Perrie doesn't cost a lot for fantasy AFL but there are better options at his price level, like Franklin, Richmond's Nathan Brown, Jared Brennan or Dale Thomas. There is also a chance that Bock is played in the back line again by the Crows, that could push Perrie's stats a lot higher and make him a much better fantasy forward.
It is the start of the season and every team has a chance, here are the positives that the club has. Nothing negative, one hundred percent optimism. This isn't what you would get from an old, crunchy guy sitting on a couch, only a long-time supporter of the team would enter the season with this positive outlook. Anyone can win, in March 2005 the Swans were not a big favourite and in 1993 the Bombers came from out of nowhere to win, so all 16 teams can have the belief at the start of the season that they could be holding up the cup at the end of the year. This is why they will win it all.
Lloyd is in perfect health:
That's good news for everyone at Essendon, with Lloyd playing they can kick a competitive score every week.
Mal Michael fills an important need:
The backmen last season were mostly of the tall and thin variety, Michael gives them the muscle to battle big full forwards.
Sheedy is fighting for another contract:
He knows that wins will get him a new deal at Essendon, he recruited Michael and tried for Akermanis and has set up Essendon to be very competitive this season.
Hird is going around again:
Could be shades of Timmy in 1993 when he was the old guy when they won.
The young midfielders like Watson and Stanton have taken over now:
The Johnson and Johnson midfield was just a band-aid solution after Mercuri and Misiti left, young Watson and Stanton will be the engine room for the team for the next decade.
Hille is a mountain:
He's one of the bigger players in the AFL, and a key part to Essendon's success.
They aren't playing Camporeale and don't need to:
Sheedy recently said they made a mistake when they brought in players like Matthew Allan and Mark Alvey. Camporeale is a similar story but with Jetta, Hislop, Winderlich, Cole and other young players stepping up the Bombers can keep Camporeale in the VFL.
Alwyn Davey isn't far off Aaron Davey's skill level:
He's quick and kicks goals, Alwyn will bring the needed pace to their forward line.
Lovett-Murray, Bradley and McPhee can cause havoc:
These players won't need to play key positions this season, they can play anywhere on the ground and exploit a big mismatch. Sheedy can play a couple of very tall wingmen this season.
Lucas gets the second or third best defender this season:
Last year opponents could focus on Lucas, this year Essendon has a healthy forward line, so instead of Lucas getting the best defender he will now be able to dominate one of the lesser players.
Next time: Why Hawthorn Will Win In 2007
1: Fremantle Dockers (1 in last AFL Power Rankings)
Back in winning form, and Tarrant finally made his debut for them so he should be an integral part of the team for round 1. The Dockers will have a good workout next week as the go to Adelaide to play the Crows.
2: Western Bulldogs (2)
Successful returns for Murphy and Darcy, Cooney back playing too. McDougall continues to provide a tall target for the Bulldogs.
3: Sydney Swans (3)
Everitt seems to have fitted in perfectly. He and Jolly could become the AFL's top ruck duo.
4: West Coast Eagles (4)
Judd is back and everything is fine. Still need to score more, they might solve that with Hunter up forward.
5: Adelaide Crows (5)
Bock and Welsh look to be their key forwards to start the season, it may not be enough and the Crows will be hoping that Ricciuto is there to help them.
6: Melbourne Demons (7)
White is back, so is Johnstone. If the Demons start the season with a full list to pick from they could win their first three matches, and a better start than they had last season could setup a top 4 spot.
7: Geelong Cats (6)
No Ottens, maybe no Geelong. Ottens will be there for round 1 and maybe it won't be too long until Hawkins is there too. Hawkins did see some action with the Geelong VFL team on the weekend.
8: Essendon Bombers (9)
Lloyd is back to his best. He kicked 7 goals against the Bulldogs, his good form should continue next week against Zac Dawson and the Hawks.
9: Hawthorn Hawks (8)
Franklin and Boyle playing well up forward. Some concerns for them with Crawford reported.
10: Port Adelaide Power (13)
Rodan is getting more attention this preseason than he did for his entire career with Richmond. Richmond, at the time, didn't make the wrong decision by letting him go, and the Power certainly did the right thing by drafting him. The Power will have a good test with an away game in Sydney next week.
11: Kangaroos (11)
Haven't performed too well at the end of games for the past two weeks. But are playing much better than they did in 2006.
12: Collingwood Magpies (12)
Taking it slowly in preseason. The Magpies should have a win next Friday and that will give them some momentum going into round 1.
13: Carlton Blues (15)
They have no ruckman but they are winning. Their wins may have come against teams that didn't play in finals last season but they are still wins and will give them confidence for the real stuff.
14: Brisbane Lions (14)
One more win next week and the Lions will have convinced most that they are for real, and it could happen with big Brown ready to play.
15: St Kilda Saints (10)
Just like last season the ruck position could be a problem again, maybe they have it sorted out for round 1. Riewoldt needs to be playing next week or the Saints could take a few rounds to figure things out. At least Maguire had a good game on the weekend after recovering from his broken leg. The Saints need to defeat the Kangaroos next week to get a win on the board.
16: Richmond Tigers (16)
Right now there is a large gap between Richmond and the teams above them. The big reason is their big players, if Richardson and Simmonds both play in round 1 it could fix all their problems. Richardson should be there but it doesn't look like Simmonds will be available.
It has been all bad news for Jonathan Hay over the past couple of years but if you go back a bit more there was a time when he was the best full back in the AFL. It is a bit too early to talk about a comeback to AFL for Hay but according to this story from The Age newspaper he will be available to all teams when the next drafts come along.
Hay free to move in 2008
Here is a quick analysis about the AFL teams and the possibility that they might look to draft Hay.
Adelaide: No chance. They have plenty of quality defenders.
Brisbane: Yes chance. The Lions could use another tall defender and they had success previously when they recruited Pike from North Melbourne.
Carlton: They have brought in players a lot worse than Hay. Carlton have probably changed their recruiting rules about the age of players, but Hay wouldn't be a good fit with youngsters like Bower ready for a senior spot at Carlton.
Collingwood: Wakelin and Clement are getting older, maybe there is a small chance that Hay could help.
Essendon: It could be another Sheedy reclamation project, although Sheedy being there in 2008 is not guaranteed yet.
Fremantle: It does make sense in a few ways, he was originally from WA and if Hay made it back to AFL level it would allow the Dockers to move McPharlin forward on more occasions.
Geelong: It would probably not be a success, but if Geelong don't make it deep into September this year then changes will need to be made and Hay would give them another tall defender.
Hawthorn: They don't want to be involved in any of that again.
Kangaroos: If they are continuing to pay him then maybe they could look to play him again, it would be very unlikely as many bridges would have been burned.
Melbourne: The Demons don't do many unexpected things, Melbourne drafting Hay would be very unexpected.
Port Adelaide: Bringing in Hay could allow them to play Chaplin further up the ground and then Chad Cornes could be used in other spots. But recruiting Hay would go against their youth policy which they currently have and are getting results with.
Richmond: Gaspar could be gone after this season and there isn't a lot of depth for tall defenders there. This is a team that might be a good fit.
St Kilda: They will try things to get players to the club, like talking M Clarke out of retirement, so maybe they might consider it.
Sydney: Hay is a bit younger than Leo Barry. Sydney would seem to be a team that would not be scared away from drafting Hay.
West Coast: They have too many tall defenders to bring in Hay.
Western Bulldogs: In the past they have been a very small team that would have been happy to add a big, athletic full back. Times have changed now and the Bulldogs have the tall positions covered and wouldn't need Hay.
While the biggest and most popular AFL fantasy games allow anyone to select any player, there are also competitions where players are drafted and a player can only be on one team in the fantasy league. Here is a fantasy mock draft for eight teams.
There are lots of strategies that come into play in a fantasy draft. As there are only a small number of star ruckmen they have a much higher fantasy value. The 5th best midfielder in the AFL isn't that much better than the 50th best for fantasy points but the 5th best ruckman could be twice as good as the 10th best. The more teams in a fantasy league, the more valuable the small number of elite ruckmen become. In a 16 team AFL fantasy league that drafts players, you will need to get ruckmen like White and Cox early or you could be looking at selecting Bryan and Brooks in later rounds.
Depending on the rules of the league and how fantasy points are calculated, big forwards who kick a lot of goals may also be very valuable. There will be a few big forwards who are around 100 goals for the season, drafting a couple of those could win a fantasy league.
There will be another post explaining tips and strategies for drafting players. If you are drafting in the middle of the round it is often easier than drafting at either end, although a winning team can be drafted anywhere from the first to the last pick. Another way the fantasy draft can setup who wins the league is when the injured or suspended players are picked. You want to draft a ruckman like Simmonds, but you have to take into account that he might miss several rounds. Another thing to consider is using a late pick on a player who will be replacing someone who is out, if you draft Michael Johnson you can add Grover for the first few rounds and if you draft Didak you might want to play one of Collingwood's other forwards until he returns.
This mock draft went for 22 rounds and the approximate positions for the players should result in 7 defenders, 6 centres, 2 ruckmen and 7 forwards. A fantasy draft might go another 3 to 8 rounds to add players to the teams’ benches. This mock draft is the usual "snake draft" where the team who picks first then has to wait to the last pick of the second round to pick again.
Feel free to copy this 2007 AFL fantasy mock draft, inserting other players and changing the order of players around, to use as a cheat sheet for your AFL fantasy drafts.
Round 1
Team A Chris Judd
Team B Adam Goodes
Team C Jonathan Brown
Team D Barry Hall
Team E Nick Riewoldt
Team F Joel Bowden
Team G Matthew Pavlich
Team H Ben Cousins
Round 2
Team H Sam Mitchell
Team G Scott West
Team F Brett Kirk
Team E Chad Cornes
Team D Cameron Bruce
Team C Kane Cornes
Team B Brad Johnson
Team A Shaun Burgoyne
Round 3
Team A Lindsay Gilbee
Team B Andrew McLeod
Team C Luke Hodge
Team D Dean Cox
Team E Nick Dal Santo
Team F Matthew Lloyd
Team G Brendon Goddard
Team H Paul Chapman
Round 4
Team H Brendon Lade
Team G Brock McLean
Team F Daniel Cross
Team E Aaron Sandilands
Team D Heath Scotland
Team C Jess Sinclair
Team B Gary Ablett
Team A Peter Bell
Round 5
Team A Josh Fraser
Team B Jeff White
Team C Corey Jones
Team D Graham Johncock
Team E Simon Goodwin
Team F James McDonald
Team G Dustin Fletcher
Team H Nathan Bassett
Round 6
Team H Nathan Buckley
Team G Luke Power
Team F James Bartel
Team E Brett Burton
Team D James Hird
Team C David Hille
Team B Brendan Fevola
Team A Tyson Edwards
Round 7
Team A Troy Simmonds
Team B Justin Koschitzke
Team C Darren Milburn
Team D David Wirrpanda
Team E Lenny Hayes
Team F Ryan O'Keefe
Team G Brad Ottens
Team H David Mundy
Round 8
Team H Jamie Charman
Team G Matthew Richardson
Team F Cameron Mooney
Team E Sam Fisher
Team D Simon Black
Team C Joel Corey
Team B Patrick Bowden
Team A Drew Petrie
Round 9
Team A Jobe Watson
Team B Ben Hudson
Team C Daniel Harris
Team D Daniel Kerr
Team E Brent Harvey
Team F Heath Shaw
Team G Lance Whitnall
Team H Daniel Wells
Round 10
Team H Craig Bolton
Team G Jude Bolton
Team F Peter Everitt
Team E Jason Akermanis
Team D Nathan Lovett-Murray
Team C Fraser Gehrig
Team B Luke Ball
Team A Dane Swan
Round 11
Team A Jared Rivers
Team B Corey Enright
Team C Grant Birchall
Team D Shane Crawford
Team E Brent Stanton
Team F Justin Sherman
Team G Adam Cooney
Team H Scott Lucas
Round 12
Team H Josh Carr
Team G Andrew Raines
Team F Andrew Embley
Team E Nick Stevens
Team D David Neitz
Team C Adam Simpson
Team B Shane Tuck
Team A Tarkyn Lockyer
Round 13
Team A Brad Green
Team B Scott Burns
Team C Michael Rischitelli
Team D Steven Salopek
Team E Will Minson
Team F Travis Johnstone
Team G Peter Burgoyne
Team H Robert Harvey
Round 14
Team H Brett Deledio
Team G Jason Gram
Team F Jason Roe
Team E Kayne Pettifer
Team D Andrew Carrazzo
Team C Justin Longmuir
Team B Jed Adock
Team A Adem Yze
Round 15
Team A Jarrad Waite
Team B James Clement
Team C Aaron Davey
Team D Dean Brogan
Team E Josh Hunt
Team F Quinten Lynch
Team G Robert Campbell
Team H Alan Didak
Round 16
Team H Matthew Scarlett
Team G Nathan Bock
Team F Michael Johnson
Team E Nathan Thompson
Team D Tyson Stenglein
Team C Kade Simpson
Team B Michael O'Loughlin
Team A Matthew Whelan
Round 17
Team A Matthew Bode
Team B Leo Barry
Team C Danny Jacobs
Team D Warren Tredrea
Team E Brent Guerra
Team F Mark Ricciuto
Team G Chris Tarrant
Team H Adam Hunter
Round 18
Team H Nathan G. Brown
Team G Anthony Rocca
Team F Martin Mattner
Team E Daniel Bradshaw
Team D Jordan McMahon
Team C Scott Welsh
Team B Cameron Ling
Team A Nick Davis
Round 19
Team A Andrew Lovett
Team B Bret Thornton
Team C Tadgh Kennelly
Team D Andrew Welsh
Team E Campbell Brown
Team F Jeff Farmer
Team G Adam McPhee
Team H Daniel Pratt
Round 20
Team H Scott Stevens
Team G Troy Chaplin
Team F Chris L. Johnson
Team E Mark Williams
Team D Nick Maxwell
Team C Lance Franklin
Team B Jared Brennan
Team A Josh Mahney
Round 21
Team A Andrew Walker
Team B Brett Ebert
Team C Damon White
Team D Andrew Krakouer
Team E Steven Dodd
Team F Raphael Clarke
Team G Angus Monfries
Team H Leigh Fisher
Round 22
Team H Chris Grant
Team G Trent Croad
Team F Andrew McDougall
Team E Luke McPharlin
Team D Robert Murphy
Team C Russell Robertson
Team B Dale Thomas
Team A David Hale
Team A
Backs: Lindsay Gilbee. Drew Petrie. Jared Rivers. Tarkyn Lockyer. Matthew Whelan. Dane Swan. Andrew Walker.
Centres: Chris Judd. Shaun Burgoyne. Peter Bell. Tyson Edwards. Jobe Watson. Brad Green.
Rucks: Josh Fraser. Troy Simmonds.
Forwards: Adem Yze. Jarrad Waite. Matthew Bode. Nick Davis. Andrew Lovett. Josh Mahoney. David Hale.
Team B
Backs: Andrew McLeod. Justin Koschitzke. Patrick Bowden. Jed Adcock. James Clement. Leo Barry. Bret Thornton.
Centres: Adam Goodes. Luke Ball. Corey Enright. Shane Tuck. Scott Burns. Cameron Ling.
Rucks: Jeff White. Ben Hudson.
Forwards: Brad Johnson. Gary Ablett. Brendan Fevola. Michael O'Loughlin. Jared Brennan. Brett Ebert. Dale Thomas.
Team C
Backs: Jess Sinclair. Luke Hodge. Corey Jones. Darren Milburn. Grant Birchall. Danny JAcobs. Tadgh Kennelly.
Centres: Kane Cornes. Joel Corey. Daniel Harris. Adam Simpson. Michael Rischitelli. Kade Simpson.
Rucks: David Hille. Justin Longmuir.
Forwards: Jonathan Brown. Fraser Gehrig. Aaron Davey. Scott Welsh. Lance Franklin. Damon White. Russell Robertson.
Team D
Backs: Graham Johncock. David Wirrpanda. Nathan Lovett-Murray. Andrew Carrazzo. Jordan McMahon. Andrew Welsh. Nick Maxwell.
Centres: Heath Scotland. Simon Black. Daniel Kerr. Shane Crawford. Steven Salopek. Tyson Stenglein.
Rucks: Dean Cox. Dean Brogan.
Forwards: Barry Hall. Cameron Bruce. James Hird. David Neitz. Warren Tredrea.
Team E
Backs: Chad Cornes. Sam Fisher. Josh Hunt. Brent Guerra. Campbell Brown. Steven Dodd. Luke McPharlin.
Centres: Simon Goodwin. Nick Dal Santo. Lenny Hayes. Brent HArvey. Brent Stanton. Nick Stevens.
Rucks: Aaron Sandialnds. Will Minson.
Forwards: Nick Riewoldt. Brett Burton. Jason Akermanis. Kayne Pettifer. Nathan Thompson. Daniel Bradshaw. Mark Williams.
Team F
Backs: Joel Bowden. Heath Shaw. Jason Roe. Michael Johnson. Martin Mattner. Chris L Johnson. Raphael Clarke.
Centres: Brett Kirk. Daniel Cross. James McDonald. James Bartel. Justin Sherman. Travis Johnstone.
Rucks: Cameron Mooney. Peter Everitt.
Forwards: Matthew Lloyd. Ryan O'Keefe. Andrew Embley. Quinten Lynch. Mark Ricciuto. Jeff Farmer. Andrew McDougall.
Team G
Backs: Brendon Goddard. Dustin Fletcher. Lance Whitnall. Andrew Raines. Jason Gram. Adam McPhee. Troy Chaplin.
Centres: Scott West. Brock McLean. Luke Power. Jude Bolton. Adam Cooney. Peter Burgoyne.
Rucks: Brad Ottens. Robert Campbell.
Forwards: Matthew Pavlich. Matthew Richardson. Nathan Bock. Chris Tarrant. Anthony Rocca. Angus Monfries. Trent Croad.
Team H
Backs: Nathan Bassett. David Mundy. Craig Bolton. Matthew Scarlett. Daniel Pratt. Leigh Fisher. Scott Stevens.
Centres: Ben Cousins. Sam Mitchell. Daniel Wells. Josh Carr. Robert Harvey. Brett Deledio.
Rucks: Brendon Lade. Jamie Charman.
Forwards: Paul Chapman. Nathan Buckley. Scott Lucas. Alan Didak. Adam Hunter. Nathan G Brown. Chris Grant.
It is the start of the season and every team has a chance, here are the positives that the club has. Nothing negative, one hundred percent optimism. This isn't what you would get from an old, crunchy guy sitting on a couch, only a long-time supporter of the team would enter the season with this positive outlook. Anyone can win, in March 2005 the Swans were not a big favourite and in 1993 the Bombers came from out of nowhere to win, so all 16 teams can have the belief at the start of the season that they could be holding up the cup at the end of the year. This is why they will win it all.
They were close to the AFL Grand Final before, and are older and more experienced now:
The core of their team has been together for several years now and are ready to take the next step.
They have a top 5 player in Riewoldt:
Premiership teams have a big star who takes them to the title, Riewoldt can do that.
Hayes is back:
He is the leader of their midfield, and probably their entire team, when he plays the Saints are a much better team.
They gave another coach a go:
Some teams kept their underachieving coaches, the Saints didn't win the cup so they brought in a new coach with new ideas.
Goddard is playing like a former number 1 pick:
Maybe Goddard's first couple of years weren't that great but he reached the top level last season and will again star in 2007.
Maguire has recovered well from his serious injury:
There was a chance that he would miss a lot, or all, of season 2007 but he is already able to play.
Robert Harvey is still going, at a high level too:
He isn't some old guy hanging on, he is a star who not only deserves his place in the team but is still one of the first players picked each week.
They have more ruck options with the arrival of Gardiner and Clarke:
The Saints add Michael Gardiner and Matthew Clarke, and only lose Ackland, their ruck depth is much better this season.
Koschitzke can be the difference:
He could see time as a forward, down back or in the ruck. He will give the Saints the extra skilled tall that they need.
Big Fraser can still kick 100 goals:
Gehrig has a few more years as an elite full forward left in him.
Next time: Why Essendon Will Win In 2007
The Dockers won with Chris Tarrant playing his first game for them, the Demons got goals from Jeff White and the Bulldogs defeated Essendon but more importantly Luke Darcy and Robert Murphy returned to action.
Shane Crawford's report is the biggest news from the Fremantle-Hawthorn game. Tarrant hasn't has the best preseason preparation but he should be much better for round 1. Xavier Ellis played for the Hawks in this game. Story from the AFL site:
Crawford reported as Dockers down Hawks
Travis Johnstone had a big game as the Demons continued Richmond's bad preseason. Polak was again one of the Tigers' better talls, but with so many other big players out it was always going to be difficult for Richmond to contain White and Neitz.
Demons outwrestle Tigers
The Bulldogs had a lot more aerial power with Murphy and Darcy playing, add McDougall into the mix and they have the height up forward that will compliment the speed of Johnson, Robbins and Akermanis. Essendon also played well, Lloyd with 7 goals and Davey with 2 are a preview of their round 1 forward line. Hird, Lucas and Lovett would be the other players expected to lineup in the forward 50 for round 1.
Bulldogs fire in Darcy return
AFL Fantasy Impact:
If Crawford is suspended then it will allow another Hawk to get more stats for a few games, and it could also mean Hodge plays a lot more in the middle which could help his fantasy points. Boyle continues to kick goals and might be someone to add for a cheap fantasy price. Tarrant is priced among the second tier of fantasy forwards, it might be better to wait a round or two to see how they play him. Polak looks like a good inclusion for fantasy teams, Bizzell played better in this game and if the Demons keep him for round 1 he could have fantasy value as his price is low for a veteran. You have to pay big dollars for Lloyd but after kicking 7 goals he showed he is worth it. The Bulldogs ruckmen, which includes Darcy, are all a similar price in fantasy leagues. If Darcy is healthy and close to his best he would bring in the most fantasy points but it would be a risk to play him in the early rounds of the season. With Harris suspended for the opening 2 rounds, Cameron Wight might be a player to try but only when Harris is out.
Kangaroos v Carlton
Hamish McIntosh: If he played more minutes he could become a top 8 fantasy ruckman.
Shannon Grant: Kicked a bunch of goals, combine that with a lot of possessions and it would mean many fantasy points.
Jess Sinclair: Could be the best fantasy player from the Kangaroos.
Glenn Archer: Played back last week, forward this week, was solid for fantasy points in each position.
Lindsay Thomas: Sign him up.
David Trotter: Should be there for round 1 and could be an underrated fantasy performer.
Nathan Thompson: There are a lot better fantasy forwards than Thompson, he has slipped in fantasy points production.
Matt Riggio: Is very inexpensive, worth a spot on the fantasy bench.
Daniel Pratt: His fantasy price might be a bit low, a player to look at signing.
Shannon Watt: Running a lot more and his possessions have gone up, has fantasy value this season.
Josh Gibson: Worth considering for a fantasy spot, had a lot of the ball this game.
Marc Murphy: His price seems a bit low in fantasy leagues, he has arrived as an elite midfielder, and is kicking goals too.
Bryce Gibbs: Another solid game and he should be there in round 1, a cheap bench option with a lot of potential.
Adam Bentick: Was as good as any of their midfielders in this game, and will be a solid fantasy player.
Brad Fisher: Fantasy strategy for Fisher could be to play him if Kennedy is out.
Setanta O’hAilpin: Now knows about the new free kick rules, not a bad choice for a defender at a low price.
Eddie Betts: Didn't just kick goals, he also got a lot of possessions.
Brendan Fevola: A lot of goals, that equals a lot of fantasy points.
Anthony Koutoufides: Spends a bit of time on the bench, if this continues for the real games he will be just an average player for fantasy points.
Cameron Cloke: If you are going to sign a Carlton ruckman for a fantasy AFL team, it probably has to be Cloke. He won’t get many hitouts, but his marks and kicks do add up.
It is the start of the season and every team has a chance, here are the positives that the club has. Nothing negative, one hundred percent optimism. This isn't what you would get from an old, crunchy guy sitting on a couch, only a long-time supporter of the team would enter the season with this positive outlook. Anyone can win, in March 2005 the Swans were not a big favourite and in 1993 the Bombers came from out of nowhere to win, so all 16 teams can have the belief at the start of the season that they could be holding up the cup at the end of the year. This is why they will win it all.
They found more forward options:
Thompson is still there, and now Edwards, Brown, Hale, Thomas, Grant and Jones can help the Kangaroos kick a winning score.
It was time to hit the Hay:
Maybe nobody knows the whole story but with Hay gone it could help the Kangaroos, addition by subtraction as there won't be any of the distractions for the club that there were last year.
They drafted Hansen:
There were some draft prospects available who might be stars in 2009 or later, Hansen's time is now.
Petrie could be one of the league's best tall defenders:
There were games last season when Petrie dominated around half back, he was not only stopping attacks but he was sending the ball forward with good accuracy.
The coach is in a "contract year":
The team needs to win now, the coach really needs to win now, the rebuilding time is over for the Kangaroos.
The veterans have been well prepared:
When the season was completely lost last year the Kangaroos shut down some of their older players, so far that has worked and their list is at full strength.
The Kangaroos have another home field advantage:
They should be able to develop a significant advantage with their second ground on the Gold Coast.
They have good depth in the ruck:
McIntosh, Moran or Hale is worthy of their number 1 ruck position. They also have Goldstein too.
Next time: Why St Kilda Will Win In 2007
The Power keep running, the Eagles got Judd back and the Swans won with a lot of their big stars in action together for the first time.
Port Adelaide's win over the Saints again showed how valuable their small players are. Rodan, Pearce, Krakouer, Ebert and Gray were all among the goal kickers, as well as big men Willits and Cockshell. The Saints did not play Riewoldt. Story from the AFL site:
Rodan shines as Port thumps Saints
Judd's return was enough to get the Eagles the win against the Crows. Lynch and Hunter were the Eagles' better forwards, so maybe Hunter will be played as a forward a lot more this season.
West Coast storm to victory
The Swans kicked 19 goals so that is a good sign for the regular season. Goodes got forward and had 4 goals, Hall and Jolly both kicked a couple of goals. Rocca kicked 3 goals for Collingwood.
Swans too strong for young Magpies
AFL Fantasy Impact:
Rodan must be a certainty for the Power's round 1 team, his fantasy price is very low. Ebert is at an average price for a fantasy forward but his stats could be much better with Tredrea out. Their coach hasn't figured out the Saints lineup yet and fantasy AFL managers will have to wait to see who they play, Blake was again a target in the forward line for them and might be a cheap fantasy pickup worth signing. Judd can go from sitting out several games to best on ground, he is worth the very high cost in fantasy leagues. It looks like Bock and Welsh will be Adelaide's key forwards for round 1, they will both be good fantasy players. Jolly doesn't usually kick goals, but if he and Everitt rotate the ruck and a forward spot it might allow both players to help fantasy teams. Bevan did have a hamstring injury, that could open a spot for a fantasy sleeper, like Phillips. Rocca could be good value this season, his fantasy price is very affordable and with Tarrant gone and now Rusling hurt the Magpies will be directing plenty of the football to big Rocca.
Geelong v Brisbane
Steven King: There are times when Blake is outplaying him, if those two split the ruck minutes down the middle it won't help either player for fantasy numbers.
Travis Varcoe: It took them over a year to unleash Varcoe, it only took him a quarter to show his skills, would be a worth a bench spot at his low price but it would be better if he was forward eligible in fantasy games.
Josh Hunt: Had a knee problem, check the news from Geelong for more.
James Kelly: Looks to have worked himself back into the regular lineup, but there was an incident that might be looked at.
Charlie Gardiner: In a group with N Ablett and Playfair competing for the third tall forward spot.
Shannon Byrnes: Quick as he always is but has improved in other areas of his game, might be an improver in fantasy numbers too.
Nathan Djerrkura: Is cheap if you want him in a fantasy team, had some impressive runs through the middle.
Cameron Mooney: Again was a dominant forward, worth signing for a fantasy team.
Mark Blake: Could be ready to challenge King for ruck minutes.
David Johnson: A bit exposed at full back, but had a solid game, may not be in their 22 for round 1.
Gary Ablett: An injury had him on the bench in the second half, didn't seem serious.
Brent Prismall: An improved player, affordable in AFL fantasy games at the moment.
Sam Hunt: Got a lot of the ball in the back line, could be a steal at a low price and might be there for round 1.
Chris Johnson: Looks injury free and also had a moment when he was free of gravity with a big mark, could be someone who is underpriced in fantasy leagues.
Luke Power: Had a power of possessions, worth the price in fantasy leagues.
Jed Adcock: Took a hit but returned to action, has a big fantasy price this season but might be worth it.
Ashley McGrath: Again played deep in the forward line, is cheap to acquire and he might be even better for stats when Brown is back.
Justin Sherman: A midfielder who kicks goals, a good combination for fantasy stats.
Matthew Tyler: Doesn't cost anything as he is a minimum-priced fantasy player, might be worth putting in a bench spot.
Jared Brennan: The type of player who is a concern for fantasy games where effectiveness of disposals is mentioned, but he was certainly everywhere in this game getting the ball.
Joel Patfull: Plays a secondary centre half forward role, and has been playing it well in preseason. Won't cost a lot.
Beau McDonald: Really stood up late in the game and was marking strong, it is hard to separate him, Wood and Charman as they have all played very well.
It is the start of the season and every team has a chance, here are the positives that the club has. Nothing negative, one hundred percent optimism. This isn't what you would get from an old, crunchy guy sitting on a couch, only a long-time supporter of the team would enter the season with this positive outlook. Anyone can win, in March 2005 the Swans were not a big favourite and in 1993 the Bombers came from out of nowhere to win, so all 16 teams can have the belief at the start of the season that they could be holding up the cup at the end of the year. This is why they will win it all.
Fraser is fit and firing:
Probably their biggest and most important player, there are few ruckmen in the league that can challenge him, and if there ever is a game when his ruck work isn't the best he can go forward and kick goals.
Buckley is back bigger and bigger:
At the end of last season it seemed he was giving away the captaincy and was going to a forward pocket, now he is ready to go in the middle and has Lex Luger dimensions, making Buckley the total package of the AFL.
They smartly drafted Dale Thomas and Scott Pendlebury:
Both were surprise picks, but Collingwood were right when they identified them as future stars. They will both be very important players this season, the only problem for Collingwood fans might be deciding which of the two is actually better than the other.
They extended Malthouse, eliminating a distraction for the season:
They may as well keep the Buckley-Malthouse combination going for the next couple of seasons, signing Malthouse to a new deal made sense and removed a possible problem of contract talks becoming an annoyance.
The Irish guy might be good:
Harry O'Brien, and his Irish-sounding last name, was a great find by Collingwood. This time they went over to Ireland and found a promising prospect in Marty Clarke.
Holland will be a big boost to the club when he returns:
After a month of regular season games there are some teams that start to slow down, but Collingwood will be able to add Holland who will be fresh and ready to go.
They have the only Rocca in the AFL:
It is a huge asset for a club to have a player who can kick 60m goals, everyone can run around and flood the forward line and Rocca can just score from long range.
They took the daggers to the Clokes:
It wasn't going to work there, with the three similar brothers and maybe only one spot for that type of player on the team. They chose which one they wanted and it should be a more settled situation there now.
Strauchnie and Neil Balme won't be around:
Not sure what they were actually doing on Channel 10 last season, but it didn't seem to help Collingwood in any way at all. This season the Magpies have added Mr Bean, and his inclusion should mean more wins for the Magpies, also Mr Bean's skinfold tests must surely be better than Strauchnie's.
Next time: Why The Kangaroos Will Win In 2007
The Hawks have quietly been securing the team’s future the past couple of weeks. Star of the near future Grant Birchall signed an extension recently and Hawthorn have also announced that big Max Bailey has agreed to extend his stay with Hawthorn. While Birchall, from Tasmania, doesn’t have the “go home factor” there was always the possibility that Bailey from Western Australia might not be around for the long term. But just as Hawthorn did with Franklin, they managed to keep another interstate player.
Bailey is out injured this season but he could return in 2008 and be in the running for their number 1 ruck spot. At around 206cm in height, Bailey is obviously a big prospect. If he can add 10kg of muscle during his recuperation he could be an imposing player.
Hawthorn’s announcement about maximum height Max: Bailey on ice
Magnificent news for Collingwood with a visit from Mr Bean. The highlight had to be the rowing machine effort with Brodie Holland, the machine that Mr Bean used might need some repair work after his disjointed exercise.
News from the Herald Sun about Mr Bean finally meeting Nathan Buckley and the rest of the Collingwood team:
Mr Bean takes on the Pies
Story from the Collingwood site:
Collingwood welcomes Mr.Bean
Another update to the fantasy player rankings and also included are the total possessions for round 1 and 2 of the NAB Cup. The player ranking, 1 to 10, is to give an estimate of how good a fantasy player they will be in 2007. Players at 10 are great, players at 1 are unlikely to see action, and everything in between is a guide to how good the player will be in fantasy statistics. The unofficial statistics for the NAB Cup should not be given too much importance, with extended benches and teams looking to experiment with their lineup. For players who played both rounds, some idea of their consistency can be seen. On the list, there are some players who played for round 1 or 2 but their statistics are unavailable at the moment.
Nathan Bassett 8
NAB Cup Round 1 total possessions: 20
Rhett Biglands 1
Nathan Bock 7
NAB Cup Round 1 total possessions: 16
Matthew Bode 7
NAB Cup Round 1 total possessions: 8
Brett Burton 9
Bryce Campbell 3
Michael Doughty 8
NAB Cup Round 1 total possessions: 13
Richard Douglas 6
NAB Cup Round 1 total possessions: 11
Tyson Edwards 9
NAB Cup Round 1 total possessions: 9
Nick Gill 2
Simon Goodwin 9
Jonathon Griffin 4
NAB Cup Round 1 total possessions: 10
Trent Hentschel 1
John Hinge 2
Benjamin Hudson 8
NAB Cup Round 1 total possessions: 19
Luke Jericho 2
Graham Johncock 9
Chris Knights 4
NAB Cup Round 1 total possessions: 23
David MacKay 2
Ivan Maric 2
Kris Massie 5
Martin Mattner 8
NAB Cup Round 1 total possessions: 6
Ken McGregor 5
Andrew McLeod 9
NAB Cup Round 1 total possessions: 8
John Meesen 2
NAB Cup Round 1 total possessions: 1
Ian Perrie 5
Darren Pfeiffer
NAB Cup Round 1 total possessions: 8
Jason Porplyzia 7
NAB Cup Round 1 total possessions: 15
Brent Reilly 7
NAB Cup Round 1 total possessions: 15
Mark Ricciuto 8
Ben Rutten 5
NAB Cup Round 1 total possessions: 13
James Sellar 3
Robert Shirley 6
NAB Cup Round 1 total possessions: 19
Scott Stevens 6
NAB Cup Round 1 total possessions: 14
Scott Thompson 8
NAB Cup Round 1 total possessions: 17
Kurt Tippett 2
Jason Torney 4
NAB Cup Round 1 total possessions: 12
Nathan van Berlo 4
NAB Cup Round 1 total possessions: 8
Bernie Vince 2
Scott Welsh 7
NAB Cup Round 1 total possessions: 7
Jed Adcock 7
NAB Cup Round 1 total possessions: 11
NAB Cup Round 2 total possessions: 13
Marcus Allan 4
NAB Cup Round 1 total possessions: 4
NAB Cup Round 2 total possessions: 12
Simon Black 9
NAB Cup Round 1 total possessions: 24
NAB Cup Round 2 total possessions: 22
Daniel Bradshaw 7
Jared Brennan 4
NAB Cup Round 1 total possessions: 17
NAB Cup Round 2 total possessions: 15
Jonathan Brown 9
Jamie Charman 7
NAB Cup Round 1 total possessions: 11
NAB Cup Round 2 total possessions: 8
Mitchell Clark 3
Robert Copeland 4
NAB Cup Round 1 total possessions: 18
NAB Cup Round 2 total possessions: 11
Josh Drummond 7
Ben Fixter 4
NAB Cup Round 1 total possessions: 19
NAB Cup Round 2 total possessions: 7
Pat Garner 3
Richard Hadley 4
Scott Harding 3
NAB Cup Round 1 total possessions: 14
NAB Cup Round 2 total possessions: 14
James Hawksley 2
Rhan Hooper 4
Chris Johnson 6
NAB Cup Round 1 total possessions: 8
Nigel Lappin 5
Matthew Leuenberger 3
Joel Macdonald 5
Beau McDonald 3
NAB Cup Round 1 total possessions: 5
NAB Cup Round 2 total possessions: 9
Ashley McGrath 4
NAB Cup Round 1 total possessions: 0
NAB Cup Round 2 total possessions: 9
Daniel Merrett 3
NAB Cup Round 1 total possessions: 2
NAB Cup Round 2 total possessions: 7
Wayde Mills 2
NAB Cup Round 1 total possessions: 11
NAB Cup Round 2 total possessions: 6
Matthew Moody 6
NAB Cup Round 1 total possessions: 15
NAB Cup Round 2 total possessions: 16
Tim Notting 6
NAB Cup Round 1 total possessions: 2
NAB Cup Round 2 total possessions: 24
Joel Patfull 5
NAB Cup Round 1 total possessions: 14
NAB Cup Round 2 total possessions: 13
Luke Power 9
NAB Cup Round 1 total possessions: 11
NAB Cup Round 2 total possessions: 25
Albert Proud 4
Michael Rischitelli 7
NAB Cup Round 1 total possessions: 24
NAB Cup Round 2 total possessions: 29
Jason Roe 7
NAB Cup Round 2 total possessions: 10
Chris Schmidt 4
Christopher Scott 5
Troy Selwood 6
Sam Sheldon 2
Justin Sherman 8
NAB Cup Round 1 total possessions: 14
NAB Cup Round 2 total possessions: 9
Cheynee Stiller 7
NAB Cup Round 1 total possessions: 14
NAB Cup Round 2 total possessions: 12
Matt Tyler 3
Cameron Wood 4
NAB Cup Round 1 total possessions: 7
NAB Cup Round 2 total possessions: 5
Cain Ackland 3
NAB Cup Round 1 total possessions: 5
NAB Cup Round 2 total possessions: 10
Joe Anderson 3
Mark Austin 2
Jordan Bannister 2
Clinton Benjamin 2
Adam Bentick 6
NAB Cup Round 2 total possessions: 15
Eddie Betts 5
NAB Cup Round 1 total possessions: 11
NAB Cup Round 2 total possessions: 12
Luke Blackwell 6
Paul Bower 4
Andrew Carrazzo 6
NAB Cup Round 1 total possessions: 23
NAB Cup Round 2 total possessions: 18
Cameron Cloke 3
NAB Cup Round 1 total possessions: 10
NAB Cup Round 2 total possessions: 8
Jake Edwards 2
Brendan Fevola 8
NAB Cup Round 1 total possessions: 10
NAB Cup Round 2 total possessions: 15
Bradley Fisher 4
NAB Cup Round 1 total possessions: 11
NAB Cup Round 2 total possessions: 6
Craig Flint 2
Bryce Gibbs 7
Shaun Grigg 3
Shaun Hampson 2
Adam Hartlett 2
Ryan Houlihan 6
NAB Cup Round 1 total possessions: 25
NAB Cup Round 2 total possessions: 15
Josh Kennedy 5
NAB Cup Round 1 total possessions: 5
NAB Cup Round 2 total possessions: 8
Anthony Koutoufides 6
NAB Cup Round 1 total possessions: 13
NAB Cup Round 2 total possessions: 13
Matthew Lappin 5
NAB Cup Round 1 total possessions: 8
NAB Cup Round 2 total possessions: 15
Dylan McLaren 3
Marc Murphy 8
NAB Cup Round 1 total possessions: 15
NAB Cup Round 2 total possessions: 23
Setanta O'hAilpin 5
NAB Cup Round 1 total possessions: 4
NAB Cup Round 2 total possessions: 7
Anthony Raso 2
Jordan Russell 3
NAB Cup Round 1 total possessions: 11
NAB Cup Round 2 total possessions: 4
Jason Saddington 3
NAB Cup Round 1 total possessions: 3
NAB Cup Round 2 total possessions: 4
Heath Scotland 9
NAB Cup Round 1 total possessions: 17
NAB Cup Round 2 total possessions: 21
Kade Simpson 8
NAB Cup Round 1 total possessions: 17
NAB Cup Round 2 total possessions: 18
Nick Stevens 8
NAB Cup Round 1 total possessions: 21
NAB Cup Round 2 total possessions: 29
David Teague 2
Bret Thornton 7
NAB Cup Round 1 total possessions: 14
NAB Cup Round 2 total possessions: 15
Jarrad Waite 6
NAB Cup Round 1 total possessions: 16
NAB Cup Round 2 total possessions: 13
Andrew Walker 7
NAB Cup Round 1 total possessions: 10
NAB Cup Round 2 total possessions: 21
Lance Whitnall 9
NAB Cup Round 1 total possessions: 12
NAB Cup Round 2 total possessions: 6
Simon Wiggins 4
John Anthony 2
Nathan Brown 3
Chris Bryan 3
NAB Cup Round 1 total possessions: 11
Nathan Buckley 9
Scott Burns 7
NAB Cup Round 1 total possessions: 29
James Clement 7
Travis Cloke 3
NAB Cup Round 1 total possessions: 11
Ryan Cook 2
NAB Cup Round 1 total possessions: 8
Shannon Cox 2
Benjamin Davies 2
NAB Cup Round 1 total possessions: 14
Leon Davis 4
NAB Cup Round 1 total possessions: 14
Chris Dawes 1
Brad Dick 2
Alan Didak 8
Chris Egan 5
NAB Cup Round 1 total possessions: 13
Josh Fraser 8
Tyson Goldsack 2
Brodie Holland 6
Sam Iles 3
NAB Cup Round 1 total possessions: 11
Ben Johnson 7
NAB Cup Round 1 total possessions: 28
Paul Licuria 5
Tarkyn Lockyer 7
Ryan Lonie 7
NAB Cup Round 1 total possessions: 17
Nick Maxwell 6
NAB Cup Round 1 total possessions: 18
Paul Medhurst 5
NAB Cup Round 1 total possessions: 9
Shane O'Bree 7
Harry O'Brien 4
NAB Cup Round 1 total possessions: 2
Scott Pendlebury 6
NAB Cup Round 1 total possessions: 29
Simon Prestigiacomo 4
Ben Reid 3
Guy Richards 2
NAB Cup Round 1 total possessions: 9
Anthony Rocca 6
Sean Rusling 3
NAB Cup Round 1 total possessions: 5
Heath Shaw 9
NAB Cup Round 1 total possessions: 24
Rhyce Shaw 5
NAB Cup Round 1 total possessions: 21
Daniel Stanley 2
Dane Swan 8
Dale Thomas 6
NAB Cup Round 1 total possessions: 17
Alan Toovey 2
NAB Cup Round 1 total possessions: 6
Shane Wakelin 3
NAB Cup Round 1 total possessions: 12
Mark Bolton 2
Kepler Bradley 4
NAB Cup Round 1 total possessions: 20
Scott Camporeale 5
Richard Cole 4
NAB Cup Round 1 total possessions: 8
Alwyn Davey 3
Courtenay Dempsey 3
NAB Cup Round 1 total possessions: 8
Ricky Dyson 4
Dustin Fletcher 9
NAB Cup Round 1 total possessions: 15
Scott Gumbleton 3
Chris Heffernan 4
David Hille 8
NAB Cup Round 1 total possessions: 6
James Hird 9
NAB Cup Round 1 total possessions: 14
Tom Hislop 5
Bachar Houli 2
Leroy Jetta 4
Courtney Johns 4
NAB Cup Round 1 total possessions: 5
Jason Johnson 7
Mark Johnson 6
Jason Laycock 4
NAB Cup Round 1 total possessions: 7
Andrew Lee 2
Matthew Lloyd 9
NAB Cup Round 1 total possessions: 10
Sam Lonergan
Andrew Lovett 6
NAB Cup Round 1 total possessions: 18
Nathan Lovett-Murray 8
NAB Cup Round 1 total possessions: 14
Scott Lucas 8
NAB Cup Round 1 total possessions: 10
Adam McPhee 7
Mark McVeigh 4
NAB Cup Round 1 total possessions: 13
Mal Michael 4
NAB Cup Round 1 total possessions: 13
Angus Monfries 5
NAB Cup Round 1 total possessions: 22
Jay Nash 4
Jay Neagle 3
Damien Peverill 5
NAB Cup Round 1 total possessions: 15
Kyle Reimers 2
Paddy Ryder 2
NAB Cup Round 1 total possessions: 5
Henry Slattery 3
NAB Cup Round 1 total possessions: 7
Brent Stanton 9
NAB Cup Round 1 total possessions: 14
Jobe Watson 9
NAB Cup Round 1 total possessions: 23
Andrew Welsh 7
NAB Cup Round 1 total possessions: 17
Jason Winderlich 4
NAB Cup Round 1 total possessions: 18
Peter Bell 9
NAB Cup Round 2 total possessions: 22
Heath Black 7
Andrew Browne 3
NAB Cup Round 1 total possessions: 13
NAB Cup Round 2 total possessions: 20
Adam Campbell 2
NAB Cup Round 1 total possessions: 4
Josh Carr 8
NAB Cup Round 1 total possessions: 20
NAB Cup Round 2 total possessions: 24
Matthew Carr 5
NAB Cup Round 1 total possessions: 10
NAB Cup Round 2 total possessions: 12
Clayton Collard 3
Troy Cook 5
Ryan Crowley 5
NAB Cup Round 1 total possessions: 13
NAB Cup Round 2 total possessions: 11
Steven Dodd 5
NAB Cup Round 1 total possessions: 12
NAB Cup Round 2 total possessions: 16
Marcus Drum 3
NAB Cup Round 1 total possessions: 9
NAB Cup Round 2 total possessions: 8
Paul Duffield 4
NAB Cup Round 1 total possessions: 12
NAB Cup Round 2 total possessions: 18
Ryley Dunn 3
Jeff Farmer 6
NAB Cup Round 1 total possessions: 7
NAB Cup Round 2 total possessions: 12
Daniel Gilmore
NAB Cup Round 1 total possessions: 13
NAB Cup Round 2 total possessions: 13
Antoni Grover 5
NAB Cup Round 1 total possessions: 15
NAB Cup Round 2 total possessions: 7
Robert Haddrill 5
Paul Hasleby 8
NAB Cup Round 1 total possessions: 13
NAB Cup Round 2 total possessions: 24
Roger Hayden 5
NAB Cup Round 1 total possessions: 13
NAB Cup Round 2 total possessions: 15
Des Headland 7
NAB Cup Round 1 total possessions: 24
NAB Cup Round 2 total possessions: 6
Garrick Ibbotson
Michael Johnson 7
NAB Cup Round 1 total possessions: 11
NAB Cup Round 2 total possessions: 15
Justin Longmuir 7
NAB Cup Round 1 total possessions: 8
NAB Cup Round 2 total possessions: 8
Shaun McManus 5
NAB Cup Round 1 total possessions: 14
Luke McPharlin
NAB Cup Round 1 total possessions: 16
NAB Cup Round 2 total possessions: 8
Calib Mourish 2
David Mundy 8
NAB Cup Round 1 total possessions: 15
NAB Cup Round 2 total possessions: 10
Ryan Murphy 5
NAB Cup Round 1 total possessions: 10
NAB Cup Round 2 total possessions: 8
Brock O'Brien 2
Shane Parker 5
Matthew Pavlich 9
NAB Cup Round 1 total possessions: 11
NAB Cup Round 2 total possessions: 10
Brett Peake 8
NAB Cup Round 1 total possessions: 7
NAB Cup Round 2 total possessions: 17
Aaron Sandilands 6
NAB Cup Round 1 total possessions: 14
NAB Cup Round 2 total possessions: 17
Byron Schammer 5
Dean Solomon 6
NAB Cup Round 1 total possessions: 11
NAB Cup Round 2 total possessions: 11
Chris Tarrant 7
Scott Thornton 3
James Walker 4
NAB Cup Round 1 total possessions: 24
NAB Cup Round 2 total possessions: 25
Robert Warnock 2
Luke Webster 5
NAB Cup Round 1 total possessions: 11
Gary Ablett 9
NAB Cup Round 1 total possessions: 25
NAB Cup Round 2 total possessions: 18
Nathan Ablett 5
NAB Cup Round 1 total possessions: 9
NAB Cup Round 2 total possessions: 11
Jimmy Bartel 9
NAB Cup Round 1 total possessions: 13
NAB Cup Round 2 total possessions: 26
Mark Blake 3
NAB Cup Round 1 total possessions: 8
NAB Cup Round 2 total possessions: 17
Shannon Byrnes 4
NAB Cup Round 1 total possessions: 24
NAB Cup Round 2 total possessions: 13
Tim Callan 4
NAB Cup Round 2 total possessions: 2
Paul Chapman 9
Joel Corey 9
NAB Cup Round 1 total possessions: 23
NAB Cup Round 2 total possessions: 23
Nathan Djerrkura 3
Matt Egan 4
NAB Cup Round 1 total possessions: 10
NAB Cup Round 2 total possessions: 11
Corey Enright 9
NAB Cup Round 1 total possessions: 23
NAB Cup Round 2 total possessions: 15
Ryan Gamble 3
Charlie Gardiner 4
NAB Cup Round 1 total possessions: 15
NAB Cup Round 2 total possessions: 12
Tom Harley 4
NAB Cup Round 1 total possessions: 7
NAB Cup Round 2 total possessions: 10
Tom Hawkins 5
Simon Hogan 2
Sam Hunt 3
NAB Cup Round 1 total possessions: 8
NAB Cup Round 2 total possessions: 10
Josh Hunt 8
NAB Cup Round 1 total possessions: 9
NAB Cup Round 2 total possessions: 12
David Johnson 4
NAB Cup Round 2 total possessions: 11
Steve Johnson 3
James Kelly 5
NAB Cup Round 1 total possessions: 17
NAB Cup Round 2 total possessions: 11
Steven King 4
NAB Cup Round 1 total possessions: 11
Cameron Ling 8
NAB Cup Round 1 total possessions: 33
Andrew Mackie 5
NAB Cup Round 1 total possessions: 20
NAB Cup Round 2 total possessions: 11
Darren Milburn 8
NAB Cup Round 1 total possessions: 5
Cameron Mooney 6
NAB Cup Round 1 total possessions: 12
NAB Cup Round 2 total possessions: 9
Brad Ottens 7
NAB Cup Round 1 total possessions: 9
Stephen Owen 2
Henry Playfair 3
NAB Cup Round 2 total possessions: 5
Brent Prismall 2
NAB Cup Round 1 total possessions: 18
NAB Cup Round 2 total possessions: 9
Max Rooke 5
Matthew Scarlett 7
NAB Cup Round 1 total possessions: 9
NAB Cup Round 2 total possessions: 18
Joel Selwood 5
Matthew Spencer 2
Mathew Stokes 3
NAB Cup Round 1 total possessions: 21
NAB Cup Round 2 total possessions: 15
Kane Tenace 3
Travis Varcoe 3
Trent West 2
NAB Cup Round 2 total possessions: 2
David Wojcinski 5
NAB Cup Round 1 total possessions: 21
Max Bailey 1
Chance Bateman 5
NAB Cup Round 1 total possessions: 18
NAB Cup Round 2 total possessions: 11
Grant Birchall 7
NAB Cup Round 1 total possessions: 23
NAB Cup Round 2 total possessions: 17
Tim Boyle 3
NAB Cup Round 1 total possessions: 3
NAB Cup Round 2 total possessions: 12
Campbell Brown 7
NAB Cup Round 1 total possessions: 7
Robert Campbell 7
NAB Cup Round 1 total possessions: 5
NAB Cup Round 2 total possessions: 4
Tim Clarke 4
NAB Cup Round 1 total possessions: 15
NAB Cup Round 2 total possessions: 22
Shane Crawford 8
NAB Cup Round 1 total possessions: 21
NAB Cup Round 2 total possessions: 26
Trent Croad 5
Zac Dawson 2
NAB Cup Round 1 total possessions: 7
NAB Cup Round 2 total possessions: 6
Ben Dixon 4
Beau Dowler 4
Xavier Ellis 4
Lance Franklin 7
NAB Cup Round 1 total possessions: 13
NAB Cup Round 2 total possessions: 11
Stephen Gilham 3
NAB Cup Round 1 total possessions: 12
NAB Cup Round 2 total possessions: 12
Brent Guerra 3
NAB Cup Round 1 total possessions: 11
NAB Cup Round 2 total possessions: 15
Luke Hodge 9
NAB Cup Round 1 total possessions: 23
NAB Cup Round 2 total possessions: 22
Danny Jacobs 6
Josh P. Kennedy 4
Rick Ladson 5
NAB Cup Round 1 total possessions: 3
Jordan Lewis 7
NAB Cup Round 1 total possessions: 20
NAB Cup Round 2 total possessions: 24
Matthew Little 2
NAB Cup Round 2 total possessions: 3
Ben McGlynn 3
NAB Cup Round 1 total possessions: 15
NAB Cup Round 2 total possessions: 11
Sam Mitchell 9
NAB Cup Round 1 total possessions: 14
NAB Cup Round 2 total possessions: 31
Jarryd Morton 2
Garry Moss 3
Thomas Murphy 4
NAB Cup Round 2 total possessions: 9
Beau Muston 3
NAB Cup Round 1 total possessions: 8
Michael Osborne 3
Brent Renouf 4
Jarryd Roughead 4
NAB Cup Round 1 total possessions: 12
NAB Cup Round 2 total possessions: 7
Brad Sewell 7
NAB Cup Round 1 total possessions: 16
NAB Cup Round 2 total possessions: 20
Joel Smith 4
Simon Taylor 3
NAB Cup Round 1 total possessions: 10
NAB Cup Round 2 total possessions: 7
Mitchell Thorp 4
Josh Thurgood 3
Travis Tuck 2
NAB Cup Round 2 total possessions: 9
Richard Vandenberg 4
Mark Williams 6
NAB Cup Round 1 total possessions: 9
NAB Cup Round 2 total possessions: 11
Clinton Young 4
NAB Cup Round 1 total possessions: 11
NAB Cup Round 2 total possessions: 19
Glenn Archer 5
NAB Cup Round 2 total possessions: 16
Leigh Brown 4
NAB Cup Round 2 total possessions: 17
Aaron Edwards 4
NAB Cup Round 1 total possessions: 10
Michael Firrito 5
NAB Cup Round 1 total possessions: 20
NAB Cup Round 2 total possessions: 9
Joshua Gibson 4
NAB Cup Round 1 total possessions: 17
NAB Cup Round 2 total possessions: 18
Todd Goldstein 2
Shannon Grant 7
NAB Cup Round 1 total possessions: 15
NAB Cup Round 2 total possessions: 14
Kasey Green 4
Blake Grima 2
David Hale 6
NAB Cup Round 1 total possessions: 9
Lachlan Hansen 5
NAB Cup Round 1 total possessions: 8
Leigh Harding 1
Daniel Harris 8
NAB Cup Round 1 total possessions: 19
NAB Cup Round 2 total possessions: 16
Brent Harvey 7
NAB Cup Round 1 total possessions: 16
NAB Cup Round 2 total possessions: 17
Jonathan Hay 1
Corey Jones 8
NAB Cup Round 1 total possessions: 21
NAB Cup Round 2 total possessions: 5
Ed Lower 2
Daniel McConnell 5
Hamish McIntosh 5
NAB Cup Round 1 total possessions: 12
NAB Cup Round 2 total possessions: 9
Scott McMahon 2
Brad Moran 5
NAB Cup Round 1 total possessions: 14
NAB Cup Round 2 total possessions: 4
Drew Petrie 8
NAB Cup Round 1 total possessions: 15
NAB Cup Round 2 total possessions: 10
Daniel Pratt 7
NAB Cup Round 1 total possessions: 14
NAB Cup Round 2 total possessions: 9
Brady Rawlings 7
NAB Cup Round 1 total possessions: 15
Matt Riggio 3
NAB Cup Round 1 total possessions: 12
NAB Cup Round 2 total possessions: 7
Ben Ross 3
Eddie Sansbury 3
NAB Cup Round 1 total possessions: 20
NAB Cup Round 2 total possessions: 24
Adam Simpson 8
NAB Cup Round 1 total possessions: 21
NAB Cup Round 2 total possessions: 22
Jess Sinclair 8
NAB Cup Round 1 total possessions: 25
NAB Cup Round 2 total possessions: 17
Jesse W. Smith 4
Andrew Swallow 3
NAB Cup Round 1 total possessions: 14
NAB Cup Round 2 total possessions: 7
Lindsay Thomas 5
NAB Cup Round 1 total possessions: 11
Nathan Thompson 6
NAB Cup Round 1 total possessions: 7
NAB Cup Round 2 total possessions: 9
David Trotter 2
Callum Urch 2
Gavin Urquhart 3
Ben Warren 2
Shannon Watt 4
NAB Cup Round 1 total possessions: 19
NAB Cup Round 2 total possessions: 7
Daniel Wells 8
NAB Cup Round 1 total possessions: 21
NAB Cup Round 2 total possessions: 16
Djaran Whyman 4
NAB Cup Round 2 total possessions: 10
Clint Bartram 5
Matthew Bate 6
NAB Cup Round 1 total possessions: 19
Daniel Bell 4
NAB Cup Round 1 total possessions: 16
Clint Bizzell 3
NAB Cup Round 1 total possessions: 6
Nathan D. Brown 5
NAB Cup Round 1 total possessions: 29
Cameron Bruce 9
NAB Cup Round 1 total possessions: 29
Simon Buckley 2
NAB Cup Round 1 total possessions: 11
Nathan Carroll 4
NAB Cup Round 1 total possessions: 16
Aaron Davey 7
Lynden Dunn 5
NAB Cup Round 1 total possessions: 10
Ryan Ferguson 2
James Frawley 3
Colin Garland 2
Simon Godfrey 4
NAB Cup Round 1 total possessions: 14
Brad Green 8
NAB Cup Round 1 total possessions: 20
Ben Holland 4
Mark Jamar 3
NAB Cup Round 1 total possessions: 10
Chris Johnson 4
NAB Cup Round 1 total possessions: 20
Paul Johnson 3
NAB Cup Round 1 total possessions: 12
Travis Johnstone 8
Nathan Jones 6
NAB Cup Round 1 total possessions: 18
James McDonald 9
NAB Cup Round 1 total possessions: 21
Brock McLean 9
Brad Miller 6
NAB Cup Round 1 total possessions: 4
Brent Moloney 7
David Neitz 7
NAB Cup Round 1 total possessions: 9
Heath Neville 2
Michael Newton 2
Ricky Petterd 3
Byron Pickett 4
Jared Rivers 8
NAB Cup Round 1 total possessions: 10
Russell Robertson 6
NAB Cup Round 1 total possessions: 10
Colin Sylvia 5
Daniel Ward 6
NAB Cup Round 1 total possessions: 21
Matthew Warnock 3
NAB Cup Round 1 total possessions: 11
Isaac Weetra 2
Paul Wheatley 4
Matthew Whelan 8
Jeff White 8
Adem Yze 7
NAB Cup Round 1 total possessions: 11
Greg Bentley 4
NAB Cup Round 1 total possessions: 7
NAB Cup Round 2 total possessions: 7
Travis Boak 4
Dean Brogan 6
NAB Cup Round 1 total possessions: 11
NAB Cup Round 2 total possessions: 7
Peter Burgoyne 7
NAB Cup Round 1 total possessions: 19
Shaun Burgoyne 9
NAB Cup Round 1 total possessions: 17
NAB Cup Round 2 total possessions: 23
Alipate Carlile 2
Domenic Cassisi 7
NAB Cup Round 1 total possessions: 12
NAB Cup Round 2 total possessions: 17
Troy Chaplin 7
NAB Cup Round 1 total possessions: 19
NAB Cup Round 2 total possessions: 9
Adam Cockshell 3
Chad Cornes 9
NAB Cup Round 1 total possessions: 12
NAB Cup Round 2 total possessions: 22
Kane Cornes 9
NAB Cup Round 1 total possessions: 24
NAB Cup Round 2 total possessions: 30
Fabian Deluca 2
Brett Ebert 6
NAB Cup Round 1 total possessions: 6
NAB Cup Round 2 total possessions: 12
Jonathan Giles 2
Robert Gray 2
Nathan Krakouer 3
Brendon Lade 8
NAB Cup Round 1 total possessions: 11
NAB Cup Round 2 total possessions: 13
Tom Logan 4
NAB Cup Round 1 total possessions: 13
NAB Cup Round 2 total possessions: 18
Nathan Lonie 7
NAB Cup Round 1 total possessions: 18
NAB Cup Round 2 total possessions: 12
Nick Lower 3
NAB Cup Round 1 total possessions: 10
NAB Cup Round 2 total possessions: 4
Josh Mahoney 6
NAB Cup Round 1 total possessions: 10
NAB Cup Round 2 total possessions: 12
Hugh Minson 2
Daniel Motlop 5
NAB Cup Round 1 total possessions: 14
Danyle Pearce 7
NAB Cup Round 1 total possessions: 16
NAB Cup Round 2 total possessions: 21
Michael Pettigrew 4
NAB Cup Round 1 total possessions: 4
NAB Cup Round 2 total possessions: 11
David Rodan 3
NAB Cup Round 1 total possessions: 14
NAB Cup Round 2 total possessions: 24
Steven Salopek 9
NAB Cup Round 1 total possessions: 22
Paul Stewart 2
Jacob Surjan 5
Brad Symes 8
NAB Cup Round 2 total possessions: 14
Matt Thomas 3
Adam Thomson 3
NAB Cup Round 1 total possessions: 12
NAB Cup Round 2 total possessions: 22
Toby Thurstans 3
NAB Cup Round 2 total possessions: 12
Warren Tredrea 6
Darryl Wakelin 3
NAB Cup Round 1 total possessions: 9
Justin Westhoff 2
Damon White 4
NAB Cup Round 1 total possessions: 12
NAB Cup Round 2 total possessions: 20
Ryan Williams 2
Ryan Willits 3
NAB Cup Round 1 total possessions: 4
NAB Cup Round 2 total possessions: 0
Michael Wilson 5
NAB Cup Round 1 total possessions: 19
NAB Cup Round 2 total possessions: 25
Joel Bowden 9
NAB Cup Round 1 total possessions: 23
Patrick Bowden 8
Nathan G. Brown 6
NAB Cup Round 1 total possessions: 17
Travis Casserly 3
Andrew Collins 2
Daniel Connors 2
Mark Coughlan 1
Brett Deledio 8
NAB Cup Round 1 total possessions: 9
Shane Edwards 3
Nathan Foley 5
NAB Cup Round 1 total possessions: 17
Darren Gaspar 3
NAB Cup Round 1 total possessions: 9
Ray Hall 3
Brent Hartigan 4
NAB Cup Round 1 total possessions: 8
Cleve Hughes 4
NAB Cup Round 1 total possessions: 5
Chris Hyde 3
NAB Cup Round 1 total possessions: 8
Daniel Jackson 2
NAB Cup Round 1 total possessions: 3
Kane Johnson 6
Kent Kingsley 3
Trent Knobel 4
NAB Cup Round 1 total possessions: 6
Andrew Krakouer 6
NAB Cup Round 1 total possessions: 4
Luke McGuane 2
Danny Meyer 3
NAB Cup Round 1 total possessions: 4
Kelvin Moore 3
NAB Cup Round 1 total possessions: 6
Chris Newman 6
NAB Cup Round 1 total possessions: 17
Jarrad Oakley-Nicholls 3
Adam Pattison 3
Carl Peterson 2
Kayne Pettifer 8
NAB Cup Round 1 total possessions: 11
Graham Polak 5
NAB Cup Round 1 total possessions: 21
Dean Polo 6
NAB Cup Round 1 total possessions: 17
Andrew Raines 7
NAB Cup Round 1 total possessions: 17
Matthew Richardson 8
NAB Cup Round 1 total possessions: 9
Jack Riewoldt 3
Jay Schulz 3
Troy Simmonds 7
Richard Tambling 6
NAB Cup Round 1 total possessions: 12
Will Thursfield 3
Greg Tivendale 7
NAB Cup Round 1 total possessions: 25
Shane Tuck 8
NAB Cup Round 1 total possessions: 21
Matthew White 4
NAB Cup Round 1 total possessions: 4
Jarryd Allen 4
David Armitage 6
Steven Baker 5
NAB Cup Round 1 total possessions: 3
Luke Ball 8
Shane Birss 4
NAB Cup Round 1 total possessions: 12
Jason Blake 2
NAB Cup Round 1 total possessions: 9
Barry Brooks 4
NAB Cup Round 1 total possessions: 7
Matthew Clarke 3
NAB Cup Round 1 total possessions: 4
Raphael Clarke 2
Xavier Clarke 5
NAB Cup Round 1 total possessions: 20
Nick Dal Santo 8
Matthew Ferguson 2
NAB Cup Round 1 total possessions: 24
Aaron Fiora 4
NAB Cup Round 1 total possessions: 13
Leigh Fisher 7
Samuel Fisher 8
NAB Cup Round 1 total possessions: 19
Michael Gardiner 4
Fraser Gehrig 7
Sam Gilbert 3
Brendon Goddard 8
NAB Cup Round 1 total possessions: 13
Jason Gram 7
NAB Cup Round 1 total possessions: 19
James Gwilt 3
NAB Cup Round 1 total possessions: 19
Aaron Hamill 4
Robert Harvey 7
Lenny Hayes 8
Brad Howard 3
Max Hudghton 5
Justin Koschitzke 7
Matthew Maguire 6
Andrew McQualter 3
NAB Cup Round 1 total possessions: 14
Stephen Milne 4
NAB Cup Round 1 total possessions: 5
Leigh Montagna 6
NAB Cup Round 1 total possessions: 21
Phillip Raymond 3
Nick Riewoldt 8
Michael Rix 3
NAB Cup Round 1 total possessions: 6
Justin Sweeney 3
Andrew Thompson 4
NAB Cup Round 1 total possessions: 23
Brett Voss 5
Fergus Watts 2
Luke Ablett 5
Leo Barry 7
Paul Bevan 5
NAB Cup Round 1 total possessions: 16
Craig Bolton 8
NAB Cup Round 1 total possessions: 23
Jude Bolton 8
Ryan Brabazon 3
NAB Cup Round 1 total possessions: 7
Amon Buchanan 8
NAB Cup Round 1 total possessions: 9
Jared Crouch 5
Daniel Currie 2
Nick Davis 6
NAB Cup Round 1 total possessions: 11
Sean Dempster 5
NAB Cup Round 1 total possessions: 14
Stephen Doyle 3
Peter Everitt 6
Peter Faulks 2
Nic Fosdike 5
Adam Goodes 10
NAB Cup Round 1 total possessions: 14
Heath Grundy 2
Barry Hall 9
Darren Jolly 5
Tadhg Kennelly 7
Brett Kirk 9
Matthew Laidlaw 3
Nick Malceski 4
NAB Cup Round 1 total possessions: 14
Ben Mathews 5
NAB Cup Round 1 total possessions: 23
Jarrad McVeigh 5
NAB Cup Round 1 total possessions: 14
Jarred Moore 2
Daniel O'Keefe 3
Ryan O'Keefe 9
NAB Cup Round 1 total possessions: 11
Michael O'Loughlin 7
Simon Phillips 3
Ted Richards 4
NAB Cup Round 1 total possessions: 13
Lewis Roberts-Thomson 3
Tim Schmidt 3
NAB Cup Round 1 total possessions: 17
Adam Schneider 6
Jonathan Simpkin 3
NAB Cup Round 1 total possessions: 19
Kristin Thornton 2
NAB Cup Round 1 total possessions: 6
Luke Vogels 4
NAB Cup Round 1 total possessions: 5
Jesse White 3
Steven Armstrong 4
NAB Cup Round 1 total possessions: 14
Michael Braun 7
NAB Cup Round 1 total possessions: 13
Mitchell Brown 3
Sam Butler 7
Daniel Chick 4
NAB Cup Round 1 total possessions: 10
Ben Cousins 9
NAB Cup Round 1 total possessions: 26
Dean Cox 9
NAB Cup Round 1 total possessions: 16
Andrew Embley 7
Chad Fletcher 7
NAB Cup Round 1 total possessions: 15
Darren Glass 5
NAB Cup Round 1 total possessions: 12
Jaymie Graham 3
NAB Cup Round 1 total possessions: 8
Ashley Hansen 5
NAB Cup Round 1 total possessions: 10
Tim Houlihan 2
Adam Hunter 6
NAB Cup Round 1 total possessions: 10
Shannon Hurn 2
Brett Jones 4
NAB Cup Round 1 total possessions: 19
Rowan Jones 5
NAB Cup Round 1 total possessions: 11
Chris Judd 10
Daniel Kerr 8
Mark LeCras 5
NAB Cup Round 1 total possessions: 14
Quinten Lynch 7
NAB Cup Round 1 total possessions: 13
Eric MacKenzie 3
Ben McKinley 2
NAB Cup Round 1 total possessions: 3
Mitch Morton 2
Mark Nicoski 4
Matthew Priddis 4
NAB Cup Round 1 total possessions: 26
Matthew Rosa 5
NAB Cup Round 1 total possessions: 25
Ashley Sampi 3
Will Schofield 2
Mark Seaby 3
NAB Cup Round 1 total possessions: 11
Adam Selwood 6
NAB Cup Round 1 total possessions: 6
Matthew Spangher 2
Brent Staker 4
NAB Cup Round 1 total possessions: 12
Tyson Stenglein 8
NAB Cup Round 1 total possessions: 23
James Thomson 2
Beau Waters 4
NAB Cup Round 1 total possessions: 7
David Wirrpanda 8
NAB Cup Round 1 total possessions: 11
Josh Wooden 2
Dylan Addison 4
NAB Cup Round 1 total possessions: 7
NAB Cup Round 2 total possessions: 13
Jason Akermanis 8
NAB Cup Round 1 total possessions: 10
Travis Baird 2
NAB Cup Round 1 total possessions: 3
NAB Cup Round 2 total possessions: 7
Matthew Boyd 7
NAB Cup Round 1 total possessions: 16
NAB Cup Round 2 total possessions: 21
Adam Cooney 8
Daniel Cross 9
NAB Cup Round 1 total possessions: 23
NAB Cup Round 2 total possessions: 24
Luke Darcy 4
Nathan Eagleton 5
NAB Cup Round 2 total possessions: 17
Andrejs Everitt 3
Cameron Faulkner 4
NAB Cup Round 1 total possessions: 12
Daniel Giansiracusa 7
NAB Cup Round 1 total possessions: 18
NAB Cup Round 2 total possessions: 23
Lindsay Gilbee 9
NAB Cup Round 1 total possessions: 15
NAB Cup Round 2 total possessions: 18
Chris Grant 6
Ryan Griffen 6
NAB Cup Round 1 total possessions: 15
Mitchell Hahn 5
Ryan Hargrave 5
NAB Cup Round 2 total possessions: 22
Brian Harris 5
NAB Cup Round 1 total possessions: 12
NAB Cup Round 2 total possessions: 21
Shaun Higgins 3
NAB Cup Round 1 total possessions: 10
NAB Cup Round 2 total possessions: 19
Josh Hill 2
Brad Johnson 9
NAB Cup Round 1 total possessions: 10
Malcolm Lynch 3
Damian McCormack 2
NAB Cup Round 1 total possessions: 14
Andrew McDougall 5
NAB Cup Round 1 total possessions: 18
NAB Cup Round 2 total possessions: 10
Jordan McMahon 7
NAB Cup Round 1 total possessions: 16
NAB Cup Round 2 total possessions: 17
Will Minson 4
NAB Cup Round 1 total possessions: 10
NAB Cup Round 2 total possessions: 13
Brett Montgomery 4
NAB Cup Round 1 total possessions: 12
NAB Cup Round 2 total possessions: 20
Dale Morris 5
NAB Cup Round 2 total possessions: 7
Robert Murphy 6
Paul O'Shea 2
Sam Power 5
NAB Cup Round 1 total possessions: 15
NAB Cup Round 2 total possessions: 20
Farren Ray 5
NAB Cup Round 1 total possessions: 10
NAB Cup Round 2 total possessions: 10
Matthew Robbins 4
NAB Cup Round 1 total possessions: 9
NAB Cup Round 2 total possessions: 5
Wayde Skipper 3
NAB Cup Round 1 total possessions: 3
NAB Cup Round 2 total possessions: 7
Brennan Stack 2
Peter Street 5
Stephen Tiller 3
Tim Walsh 3
Scott West 9
NAB Cup Round 1 total possessions: 19
NAB Cup Round 2 total possessions: 25
Cameron Wight 4
NAB Cup Round 1 total possessions: 3
NAB Cup Round 2 total possessions: 8
Tom Williams 3
Exciting Collingwood forward Sean Rusling will miss several months with a shoulder injury. Here is a short report from the AFL site:
Rusling to miss most of season
AFL Fantasy Impact
Rusling had the potential to be a big player in fantasy stats, he could have accumulated plenty of marks, kicks and goals as he would have provided a lot of the things that Tarrant did for Collingwood. Now the door is open for another player to be a regular forward for the Magpies and they could also become a valuable fantasy player. Thomas and Pendlebury are candidates, they both have the athleticism that Rusling has, they already are worth playing in fantasy leagues but now their value might go up a bit more. Medhurst is a different type of player to Rusling, Medhurst has shown in the past that he can kick goals. The back line is settled this season at Collingwood with their three veteran talls, maybe first round picks Brown and Reid get a chance to play up forward. As Rusling was going to be an aerial target in the Magpies' forward line, if they want to replace him with another marking player then Cloke could see more playing time. A long-term injury to Rusling could also open up a senior spot for a rookie, Clarke could have a chance to make a debut ahead of schedule.
Most of the AFL teams are out of the NAB Cup, but the practice matches scattered around the country can also help with selecting players for fantasy teams. Read the game reports for goal-kickers, best players and statistics to find a fantasy sleeper or two.
Sydney v Collingwood
Sydney squad: 1. Barry Hall, 2. Nick Davis, 3. Jarrad McVeigh, 4. Ben Mathews, 5. Ryan O’Keefe, 6. Craig Bolton, 9. Nick Malceski, 10. Peter Everitt, 12. Nic Fosdike, 16. Darren Jolly, 18. Jesse White, 19. Michael O'Loughlin, 24. Jude Bolton, 25. Ted Richards, 26. Sean Dempster, 29. Jonathan Simpkin, 31. Brett Kirk, 32. Amon Buchanan, 33. Jarred Moore, 36. Tim Schmidt, 37. Adam Goodes, 38. Luke Vogels, 42. Paul Bevan, 46. Sam Rowe, 47. Simon Phillips, 48. Kieren Jack.
What to watch, for picking AFL fantasy players:
How many goals Everitt can kick per game will affect his fantasy value, he should be able to get a couple of goals as he joins Hall and O'Loughlin up forward when Jolly is in the ruck.
Collingwood squad: 3. Ryan Lonie, 8. James Clement, 10. Scott Pendlebury, 11. Shane O'Bree, 12. Shannon Cox, 13. Dale Thomas, 15. Chris Egan, 16. Nathan Brown, 18. Paul Licuria, 19. Ben Davies, 20. Ben Reid, 21. Guy Richards, 23. Anthony Rocca, 24. Tarkyn Lockyer, 26. Ben Johnson 27. Nick Maxwell, 29. Ryan Cook, 34. Alan Toovey, 35. Simon Prestigiacomo, 36. Dane Swan, 37. Sam Iles, 39. Heath Shaw, 40. Chris Bryan, 41. Sharrod Wellingham, 43. Martin Clarke, 44. Daniel Nicholls, 45. Brent Macaffer.
What to watch, for picking AFL fantasy players:
Rocca won't be at his best for this game but he should be firing for round 1, this game might show if his stats will improve with Tarrant gone.
Port Adelaide v St Kilda
Port Adelaide squad: 41. Greg Bentley, 10. Travis Boak, 20. Dean Brogan, 7. Peter Burgoyne, 25. Domenic Cassisi, 30. Troy Chaplin, 34. Adam Cockshell, 33. Brett Ebert, 38. Jonathan Giles, 17. Robert Gray, 29. Nathan Krakouer, 44. Tom Logan, 12. Nathan Lonie, 26. Nick Lower, 22. Josh Mahoney, 4. Daniel Motlop, 16. Danyle Pearce, 36. Michael Pettigrew, 15. David Rodan, 3. Steven Salopek, 9. Jacob Surjan, 23. Brad Symes, 6. Adam Thomson, 28. Toby Thurstans, 2. Darryl Wakelin, 39. Justin Westhoff, 19. Ryan Williams, 11. Ryan Willits.
What to watch, for picking AFL fantasy players:
There are a few tall forwards in this game competing for a possible spot in the round 1 team if Tredrea is still out. White is probably the player for that role, but maybe Pettigrew or Willits do something big this game to get them in the team for round 1.
St Kilda squad: 20. David Armitage, 43. Jayden Attard, 10. Steven Baker, 14. Luke Ball, 22. Shane Birss, 27. Jason Blake, 24. Barry Brooks, 28. Matthew Clarke, 3. Xavier Clarke, 26. Nick Dal Santo, 21. Matthew Ferguson, 17. Aaron Fiora, 25. Sam Fisher, 9. Fraser Gehrig, 18. Brendon Goddard, 1. Jason Gram, 33. James Gwilt, 35. Robert Harvey, 38. Clint Jones, 32. Andrew McQualter, 44. Stephen Milne, 11. Leigh Montagna, 12. Nick Riewoldt, 29. Michael Rix, 4. Andrew Thompson, 31. Matt Maguire.
What to watch, for picking AFL fantasy players:
Obviously Riewoldt is the player to watch, if he is playing in this game then he should be in perfect health for round 1. Maguire is another player making a return to action.
Adelaide v West Coast
Adelaide squad: 3. Kris Massie, 4. Kurt Tippett, 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, 15. Jason Torney, 17. Scott Welsh, 18. Graham Johncock, 19. Darren Pfeiffer, 21. Chris Knights, 23. Andrew McLeod, 24. Brett Burton, 25. Ben Rutten, 26. Richard Douglas, 27. Scott Stevens, 28. Bernie Vince, 33. Brent Reilly, 36. Simon Goodwin, 39. Martin Mattner, 42. Rhys Archard, 43. Andrew McIntyre, 44. Nathan Bock.
What to watch, for picking AFL fantasy players:
Knights has been getting the ball a lot for the Crows and could be a fantasy player that will increase in value. Big Tippett must have recovered from his injury as he is named in the squad, he might play a few games but Griffin has to be ahead of him on their depth chart.
West Coast squad: 1. Mitchell Brown, 2. Mark LeCras, 3. Chris Judd, 4. Daniel Kerr, 5. Tyson Stenglein, 10. Michael Braun, 11. Matt Priddis, 14. Mark Seaby, 15. Chad Jones, 16. Eric McKenzie, 17. Daniel Chick, 18. Rowan Jones, 19. Tim Houlihan, 20. Dean Cox, 21. Quinten Lynch, 22. Jaymie Graham, 24. Matt Rosa, 25. Shannon Hurn, 27. Ben McKinley, 29. Ashley Hansen, 30. Matt Spangher, 32. Andrew Embley, 35. Steven Armstrong, 38. Brett Jones, 39. Adam Hunter, 40. Llane Spandermaan, 41. Brent Staker, 45. Jamie McNamara.
What to watch, for picking AFL fantasy players:
Judd's return is important for the Eagles, but for fantasy leagues it is also his impact on other players that is something to watch. Maybe Priddis and Rosa don't get the ball as much with the Eagles having more of their star midfielders playing, or maybe players like Rosa actually benefit as Judd playing will mean the Eagles have the ball more and someone like Rosa can be on the end of a few kicks from Judd.
Essendon v Western Bulldogs
Essendon squad: Mark Bolton, Kepler Bradley, Alwyn Davey, Courtenay Dempsey, Ricky Dyson, Scott Gumbleton, Chris Heffernan, David Hille, James Hird, Heath Hocking, Bachar Houli, Leroy Jetta, Mark Johnson, Jason Laycock, Matthew Lloyd, Andrew Lovett, Nathan Lovett-Murray, Mark McVeigh, Adam McPhee, Mal Michael, Angus Monfries, Jay Neagle, Damien Peverill, Patrick Ryder, Henry Slattery, Brent Stanton, Jobe Watson, Jason Winderlich.
What to watch, for picking AFL fantasy players:
Winderlich is better this season and could be a cheap fantasy player. Maybe Gumbleton can push for a spot with Johns out.
Western Bulldogs squad: Dylan Addison, Jason Akermanis, Matthew Boyd, Adam Cooney, Daniel Cross, Luke Darcy, Nathan Eagleton, Andrejs Everitt, Cameron Faulkner, Daniel Giansiracusa, Lindsay Gilbee, Chris Grant, Ryan Hargrave, Brian Harris, Shaun Higgins, Chris Johnson, Damien McCormack, Andrew McDougall, Jordan McMahon, Will Minson, Dale Morris, Robert Murphy, Paul O'Shea, Sam Power, Farren Ray, Matthew Robbins, Wayde Skipper, Cameron Wight.
What to watch, for picking AFL fantasy players:
Darcy's fantasy worth will most likely depend on the amount of goals he kicks, and it could be a new forward structure for the Bulldogs as Darcy, McDougall, Grant and Murphy could all play up there. Again there is no Street, making Minson a much better ruckman for fantasy stats.
Melbourne v Richmond
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, 13. Adem Yze, 14. Lynden Dunn, 16. Travis Johnstone, 17. Chris Johnson, 18. Brad Green, 21. Daniel Bell, 22. Brent Moloney, 23. James McDonald, 24. Russell Robertson, 25. Nathan Brown, 27. Jared Rivers, 32. Cameron Bruce, 33. Byron Pickett, 34. Jeff White, 35. Ryan Ferguson, 36. Aaron Davey, 40. Mark Jamar, 41. Nathan Carroll, 45. Matthew Whelan.
What to watch, for picking AFL fantasy players:
There are a few position battles for the Demons, this will affect fantasy leagues. It could be Miller or Dunn up forward, in the back line there may only be one spot for Holland, Frawley and Bizzell.
Richmond squad: 1. Chris Newman, 3. Brett Deledio, 4. Andrew Raines, 6. Graham Polak, 7. Nathan Brown, 11. Joel Bowden, 13. Trent Knobel, 14. Dean Polo, 15. Kayne Pettifer, 17. Kane Johnson, 21. Shane Tuck, 22. Danny Meyer, 23. Daniel Jackson, 25. Jay Schulz, 26. Adam Pattison, 27. Andrew Krakouer, 31. Chris Hyde, 32. Greg Tivendale, 33. Brent Hartigan, 34. Cleve Hughes, 36. Will Thursfield, 38. Luke McGuane, 40. Kelvin Moore, 41. Nathan Foley, 43. Cam Howat, 46. Jacob King.
What to watch, for picking AFL fantasy players:
Schulz gets another chance, he has the ability to get a lot of marks but he hasn't been able to produce consistently. It looks like Knobel could be their round 1 ruckman, check his price but it would have to be very low to risk signing him.
Fremantle v Hawthorn
Fremantle squad: Peter Bell, Andrew Browne, Adam Campbell, Matt Carr, Troy Cook, Ryan Crowley, Benet Copping, Steven Dodd, Marcus Drum, Paul Duffield, Ryley Dunn, Jeff Farmer, Daniel Gilmore, Robert Haddrill, Des Headland, Garrick Ibbotson, Michael Johnson, Shaun McManus, Calib Mourish, David Mundy, Ryan Murphy, Shane Parker, Brett Peake, Darren Rumble, Chris Tarrant, James Walker, Luke Webster.
What to watch, for picking AFL fantasy players:
The important thing about this game is finding out the players who will take over the roles of Farmer and Johnson. Parker is back for this game and will be added to their back line, Farmer is hard to replace for the Dockers but Webster might be able to do the job.
Hawthorn squad: 2. Jarryd Roughead, 3. Jordan Lewis, 8. Danny Jacobs, 9. Shane Crawford, 10. Chance Bateman, 12. Brad Sewell, 13. Simon Taylor, 16. Beau Dowler, 17. Beau Muston, 18. Brent Guerra, 20. Tim Boyle, 22. Ben McGlynn, 23. Lance Franklin, 26. Zac Dawson, 27. Stephen Gilham, 28. Matthew Little, 29. Tom Murphy, 30. Campbell Brown, 32. Xavier Ellis, 33. Josh Thurgood, 34. Brent Renouf, 35. Jarryd Morton, 36. Josh Kennedy, 37. Gary Moss, 38. Travis Tuck, 40. Luke McEntee, 43. Sam Gibson, 45. Clinton Young.
What to watch, for picking AFL fantasy players:
The Hawks could produce some young and inexpensive fantasy players. Kennedy, Ellis, the Beau boys, Renouf and Boyle will be players to watch. Danny Jacobs has missed a lot of games but when at his best he gets many fantasy points in the back line.
It is the start of the season and every team has a chance, here are the positives that the club has. Nothing negative, one hundred percent optimism. This isn't what you would get from an old, crunchy guy sitting on a couch, only a long-time supporter of the team would enter the season with this positive outlook. Anyone can win, in March 2005 the Swans were not a big favourite and in 1993 the Bombers came from out of nowhere to win, so all 16 teams can have the belief at the start of the season that they could be holding up the cup at the end of the year. This is why they will win it all.
Lade and Brogan are the best ruck combo in the AFL:
The team that gets first use of the ball is at a big advantage, and Lade and Brogan can both provide that for the Power. They are big, mobile, can take marks and Lade is also a quality shot at goal.
They won without Primus and Francou, so if needed they can win without Tredrea:
The Power can overcome injuries to their stars, but it won't be a big factor because Treadrea should return in the early rounds of the season.
Port don't just have one Cornes and one Burgoyne, they have two of each:
That is a lot of skilful players at the coach's disposal. One for the back line, one up forward and a couple in the middle.
Chaplin could be the All-Australian full back:
There isn't a lot of competition for this spot, and Chaplin is the young gun of full backs in the AFL.
Ebert will be as big as Qbert was in the 1980s:
Qbert, the video game character, would jump around and was difficult to control but was entertaining. Ebert can jump and entertain, and can control the forward line with his marks on the lead.
They struck gold at the very end of the draft with Rodan:
If Rodan keeps running, tackling and getting possessions he will be a great new addition to the team.
Williams signed a new contract, giving the team stability for the future:
There are a few coaches in the AFL who are in their last year of their contracts, Williams is no longer part of this group after signing his new deal and the Power should have a better season because of that decision.
Next time: Why Collingwood Will Win In 2007
NAB Cup semi-final:
Kangaroos v Carlton
Kangaroos squad: 1. Hamish McIntosh, 4. Daniel Harris, 6. Shannon Grant, 7. Adam Simpson, 8. Daniel Wells, 9. Jess Sinclair, 11. Glenn Archer, 12. Lindsay Thomas, 13. David Trotter, 14. Callum Urch, 15. Kasey Green, 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, 32. Eddie Sansbury, 36. Shannon Watt, 38. Josh Gibson, 43. Matt Campbell, 44. Djaran Whyman.
What to watch, for picking AFL fantasy players:
Thomas might already be on your fantasy team, this is another opportunity for him to prove he is ready to play. Edwards and Brown might not even play in round 1, as Hale should be back, but those two have kicked goals in the NAB Cup. Edwards is a lot cheaper than Brown for fantasy teams. Hansen has been solid but not his spectacular self, he may have the problem that Samson did after a haircut, but Hansen should be a player to sign for fantasy teams and he might be worth starting. He is another Kangaroo whose playing time and role could change if Hale is playing. Wells has been very exciting in the preseason games, he is probably good value at his fantasy price.
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, 10. Dylan McLaren, 11. Cain Ackland, 12. Matthew Lappin, 14. Brad Fisher, 16. Shaun Grigg, 17. Setanta O’hAilpin, 18. Paul Bower, 19. Eddie Betts, 23. Adam Hartlett, 24. Nick Stevens, 25. Brendan Fevola, 28. Cameron Cloke, 29. Heath Scotland, 30. Jarrad Waite, 32. Bret Thornton, 33. Ryan Houlihan, 38. Ryan Jackson, 41. 43. Anthony Koutoufides, 44. Andrew Carrazzo.
What to watch, for picking AFL fantasy players:
The ruck situation could be even more confused with McLaren also named. For good fantasy stats a player needs to be getting a lot of playing time, and if two of the Carlton ruckmen are splitting the minutes it won't help either player for fantasy numbers. Koutoufides and Whitnall have been elite fantasy players over their careers, but so far they haven't had big numbers in the 2007 NAB Cup. Kennedy is a player to watch, he is still inexpensive to purchase in fantasy leagues. Grigg hasn't been a part of their preseason games so far, it would be good if he played as he has a versatile game that would bring in a lot of fantasy stats if he got playing time. Gibbs has improved in each game he has played so far, worth a fantasy spot but he isn't at the level required to be started in fantasy for round 1, but he does have another week or possibly two in the NAB Cup to get better. Kade Simpson is getting up in price, he may not be worth it at a very high cost, although he does get a lot of the ball. Carlton continue to play Jordan Russell, he is around a third of the price of Simpson, Russell is a bit of a risk as he could sit on their bench a lot but he is cheap.
There hasn't been a lot of Geelong Cats premiership merchandise in the past 44 years, except the official DVD of their NAB Cup win last season. Here is a poster celebrating Geelong's win in 1963.
GEELONG CATS 1963 PREMIERS WEG POSTER.
You have to scroll down a bit to see the picture, of a very ferocious Cat.
This is certainly a good idea for a collectable item, cards of Tom Hawkins and Jack Hawkins, maybe get one of each player signed and framed. Cards of the 21st century player should be plentiful soon, but it might be hard to find cards of "Jumping" Jack. Flash cards of his, with foil and individual numbering, won't be found from the old VFL cards, but this is a solid example of the cards from the early 1980s. Looking at the Geelong uniform of the day, they were certainly sponsored by Ford.
1982 Scanlen VFL No 098"Jack Hawkins"Geelong
The Brisbane Lions are running out of premiership players and it seems that Chris Scott could be their latest veteran who retires. He has not been able to overcome a hip injury. Read the story from The Age internet site about Scott’s injury, Rischitelli’s rise to stardom and the possibility that Jonathan Brown will be ready to play in the NAB Grand Final, if the Lions get there.
Young Lion gets coach's nod of approval
AFL Fantasy Impact:
Chris Scott might be able to recover and play a few games this season but his days as a fantasy player would seem to be over. The Lions could look at putting Scott on the long-term injury list which could open up a roster spot for a rookie. Anthony Corrie, who has also been injured, might be the player that Brisbane elevate. Corrie is priced in fantasy leagues at a higher price than Scott so he might be useful if he plays. Colm Begley has played well in the preseason games, and Brisbane might look to him to replace Scott’s role in the back line. Haydn Kiel is another youngster who could be elevated from the rookie list.
It is the start of the season and every team has a chance, here are the positives that the club has. Nothing negative, one hundred percent optimism. This isn't what you would get from an old, crunchy guy sitting on a couch, only a long-time supporter of the team would enter the season with this positive outlook. Anyone can win, in March 2005 the Swans were not a big favourite and in 1993 the Bombers came from out of nowhere to win, so all 16 teams can have the belief at the start of the season that they could be holding up the cup at the end of the year. This is why they will win it all.
Their ruckmen are huge and plentiful:
Jamie Charman is actually their shortest ruckmen, and he is huge at around 198cm and over 100kg. Wood is young and tall, McDonald is another big body and he has plenty of experience, the best of them all could be the 4th overall draft pick Leuenberger.
Their youngsters had some good teachers:
Sherman, Rischitelli and the rest of their young players had to have learned something watching Voss and the other premiership players they had there over the past couple of years.
Their coach wins, that's what he does better than all others:
Hawthorn won a lot when he played, he is the only coach to take Collingwood to the top in the past five decades, he took Brisbane from the bottom to four consecutive AFL Grand Finals. Matthews can coach.
Brown is one of the best:
Could be favourite for the Coleman Medal, the Lions midfield will keep feeding him the ball and he will keep kicking goals.
Merrett and Brennan can compete with most big forwards:
The Lions can go with the bulk and strength of Merrett or the athleticism of Brennan when they need to find a matchup against a tall forward.
Roe was a great find:
It could be a quick trip from a rookie list to the All-Australian team for Jason Roe. He can stop nearly all types of forwards and then can send the Lions into attack with his run and kicking.
They play an away game just down the road from their home:
Having to travel to the Gold Coast is easier than flying to Melbourne.
Next time: Why Port Adelaide Will Win In 2007
NAB Cup semi-final:
Geelong v Brisbane
Geelong squad: Steven King, Tom Harley, Jimmy Bartel, Andrew Mackie, Travis Varcoe, Brad Ottens, Josh Hunt, James Kelly, Joel Corey, Charlie Gardiner, Shannon Byrnes, Nathan Djerrkura, Matthew Egan, Cameron Mooney, Henry Playfair, Nathan Ablett, Mark Blake, David Johnson, Gary Ablett, Matthew Scarlett, Brent Prismall, Todd Grima, Joel Reynolds, Sam Hunt, Darren Milburn, David Wojcinski, Corey Enright, Cameron Ling
What to watch, for picking AFL fantasy players:
If Wojcinski gets a regular spot for Geelong in their back half he should bring in plenty of fantasy stats, he is back for this game and another good performance should solidify his spot in their senior team. ottens is back for this game too, which pushes N Ablett into his more suited role of a third tall forward, Nathan Ablett is among the cheaper forwards in fantasy leagues so if he gets the ball a bit and kicks a couple of goals in this game he is a player to consider for your fantasy team. If you want Milburn on your team you will have to pay a big price, this game will show if he is worth it, and if he has recovered from the big boot a couple of weeks ago. Mooney, like Ottens, is a forward/ruckman in fantasy leagues, it is probably better to play them as a forward if you select them. Varcoe could be getting a run for Geelong, there is plenty of upside with him as his price is very low.
Brisbane Lions 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, 29. Jason Roe, 30. Robert Copeland, 31. Cameron Wood, 32. Cheynee Stiller, 35. Michael Rischitelli, 40. Will Hamill, 41. Scott Clouston 42. Marcus Allan, 43. Beau McDonald, 45. 46. Colm Begley
What to watch, for picking AFL fantasy players:
Copeland is a very affordable fantasy player, he has been very effective so far in the NAB Cup and might be a bargain for your fantasy team. Merrett is a cheap defender for a fantasy roster, he will be playing every game for the Lions this season so he may have some value. Rischitelli had close to 30 possessions last game, he isn't near the elite midfielders in fantasy price but he can get similar stats. Marcus Allan was very effective in the forward line last game, if he maintains his goal-scoring for the regular season he will be a good fantasy pickup.
Last week's video was Lynch kicking a goal for the Eagles at Princes Park, this time it is Carlton getting a goal against West Coast as Craig Bradley goes on one of his huge runs and finishes it with a difficult shot at goal. Matera couldn’t catch him on this occasion, Guy McKenna missed but it was a good effort and big Jakovich couldn’t stop it at the goals. Probably from a game late in the 1994 season. The video is on the Youtube site.
Craig Bradley - Goal against West Coast
The 2007 SuperCoach fantasy competition has just started, you can sign up and select your fantasy team. It is a bit different to last season, with changes in the number of ruckmen played and they have also altered the pricing of some new players.
SuperCoach 2007
It was a very busy day at the tribunal and the Dockers will be without a couple of stars for the early rounds. Jeff Farmer is out for 6 weeks and Michael Johnson misses 4 games. Geelong's small forward Stokes is also out for 4 games. Sydney's Nic Fosdike had a much better result at the tribunal and is now available for their round 1 game.
From the AFL site: Farmer hit for six in Dockers double blow
AFL Fantasy Impact:
The Dockers might have played a Farmer/Browne combo of small forwards in round 1 as Browne was in great form for the preseason games. Now with Farmer out it should guarantee Andrew Browne a role in the forward line, at least for the early rounds, and if Browne continues to kick goals he could be a good pickup for fantasy teams. Johnson should be better than Farmer for fantasy stats this season, while he is out it will be up to Mundy, Grover and maybe Crowley to step up their games. Mundy is one of the better fantasy defenders while Grover has been getting the ball more in preseason games and his stats might go up without Johnson there. With Stokes out for Geelong, it could mean Byrnes has a bigger role and Selwood will also have one less player to compete with to make their round 1 team.
It is the start of the season and every team has a chance, here are the positives that the club has. Nothing negative, one hundred percent optimism. This isn't what you would get from an old, crunchy guy sitting on a couch, only a long-time supporter of the team would enter the season with this positive outlook. Anyone can win, in March 2005 the Swans were not a big favourite and in 1993 the Bombers came from out of nowhere to win, so all 16 teams can have the belief at the start of the season that they could be holding up the cup at the end of the year. This is why they will win it all.
A lot of forward marking options:
Fevola is there, Kennedy is their centre half forward, Whitnall and Koutoufides are played there too and Brad Fisher is another player with height. Teams will struggle to find enough tall defenders to shut them down.
Marc Murphy and Bryce Gibbs are already playing well together:
They have the M & M teamed with the Bee Gee in the Carlton midfield, and they are on the same page. Gibbs to Murphy, Murphy to Gibbs there will be a lot of that this season.
They finally have height in the back line:
Thornton can now look up and there is the big Setanta and Waite as well. No longer undersized, Carlton have the bodies to compete against the league's tall forwards.
Bentick can stop star midfielders:
Shutting down an opposition star in the middle can change a game, Bentick has the ability to do that, and he can also get the ball himself.
Eddie Betts knows where the goals are:
If they have the height in the forward line they need to compliment that with a super quick little guy who can crumb and score. Betts is perfect for that role.
They now have an enforcer:
There are times when a football team needs to have a player who can put fear into the opposition, Cameron Cloke may not look as fearsome as he did before with his head now shaved but he is still intimidating.
Houlihan has cut his hair:
There is nothing wrong with long hair, Tommy Alvin proved that for this club, but some players have had the distraction of trying to kick the ball while brushing their hair out of their eyes. Houlihan should have a lot fewer hair-induced clangers now.
Everybody is going to get paid:
There won't be any tin rattling needed at MC Hammer Park now, due to the arrival of their new president, and this will allow the players to concentrate more on their football.
Gavin Crosisca is coaching there now:
A new voice to freshen up the coaching there, Crosisca will bring some ideas that helped his team in the VFL.
Next time: Why Brisbane Will Win In 2007
The AFL has Big Red, and the Blues too, it is a very colourful league. There is the yellow and black and a team was sponsored by Orange. The youngsters are green and the umpires now have clothing in every colour. You could even make a team with the colourful names of players. It would certainly create confusion for opposition coaches, they would have to assign defenders to Brown, Brown and Brown. Here is the All-Colours team of current players, so the team is without Paul Brown and is even Billy Brownless-less.
FB Nathan Brown-Demons, Matthew Scarlett, Matthew White
HB Leigh Brown, Cameron Wight, Campbell Brown
C Simon Black, Luke Blackwell, Heath Black
HF Brad Green, Damon White, Andrew Browne
FF Mitch Brown, Jonathan Brown, Nathan Brown-Magpies
Foll Jeff White, Nathan Brown-Tigers, Kasey Green
bench
Jesse White, Robert Gray, Tyson Goldsack, Todd Goldstein
The Cats are one win from the NAB Cup Grand Final, so are Carlton. Geelong will probably make it, as it is called the N.ABlett Cup, but Carlton will have a much tougher game. When was the last time those two teams met in a Grand Final, for either the preseason title or for the AFL Premiership? Leave a comment if you know the year when Geelong most recently played Carlton in, any type of, Grand Final.
Maybe this should be the trivia question for today, when was the last time Luke Darcy played, whenever it was it was a long time ago. But both Darcy and Robert Murphy are expected to make a return to action, after recovering from their knee injuries, with a practice match on the weekend. Both players give the Bulldogs marking targets that they need, and if everything goes well one or both of them could be there for round 1.
Story from The Age: Murphy, Darcy set for return
AFL Fantasy Impact:
In some fantasy sports a player who has been out for a long time has a very low price and there is little risk in buying the player. For AFL fantasy games, it doesn’t seem to work that way. If you wanted Darcy on your AFL fantasy team last season it would have meant opening up the bank as he was an expensive acquisition. Unless Darcy is either very cheap, or is actually playing at a high level with plenty of stats, you probably won’t want to sign him. For average stats last season, Robert Murphy was the best Murphy to have, even better than Marc. His cost should be just a bit above an average player, so he should be affordable, and if that is the case then he might be a good signing. He can play all over the ground, he gets marks as well as possessions, and he can also kick goals, he should be back close to his best and that might mean plenty of fantasy points.
It is the start of the season and every team has a chance, here are the positives that the club has. Nothing negative, one hundred percent optimism. This isn't what you would get from an old, crunchy guy sitting on a couch, only a long-time supporter of the team would enter the season with this positive outlook. Anyone can win, in March 2005 the Swans were not a big favourite and in 1993 the Bombers came from out of nowhere to win, so all 16 teams can have the belief at the start of the season that they could be holding up the cup at the end of the year. This is why they will win it all.
You can't stop Matthew Richardson:
100 goal potential, and they can't push him in the back now, not that they could actually move the big guy anyway. If they play in front of him he will just jump over them. He is bigger, stronger and faster than nearly every defender.
Troy Simmonds is a unique ruckman:
Has the ability to hurt the teams with bigger, slower ruckmen. He can win a hitout, sprint into the forward 50, mark the football and kick the goal.
The midfield is young, deep and talented:
There is size and pace, and they should be able to compete with any other team in the middle.
Polak fills their big need in the back half:
The Tigers have been short in the back line for a while, this offseason they went out and traded for a needed big body. Polak was an early draft pick for Fremantle and he still has the potential he had then.
Schulz and Pattison are ready to star:
Smalls make an impact in the AFL sooner than big prospects, both these talls are ready for a bigger role after learning for several years.
Howat is a star of the future:
The future could be real soon too, will go from the rookie list and right into their starting 18.
Jack Riewoldt is related to Nick:
That's a good start for a footballer. Jack can be just as good as Nick, eventually, but right from the start he should be an above average tall who can play at either end.
Deledio is Brownlow quality:
The young gun of AFL midfielders, has the skills and size to dominate and to get noticed for votes.
Next time: Why Carlton Will Win In 2007
If your team finished in the finals last season it is already out of the 2007 NAB Cup. West Coast and Sydney were in the 2006 AFL Grand Final, but didn't get past round 1 of the NAB Cup. The Crows, Dockers, Saints, Magpies, Demons and Bulldogs also played in the real September action last year but are all eliminated from this year's NAB Cup. Three of the bottom four teams from last season are alive in the NAB Cup, as well as the winner of the 2006 NAB Cup who finished in 10th spot for the regular season.
It is guaranteed, either the 16th or the 14th team from last season's standings will be playing in the NAB Cup grand final. The Blues or the Roos will be in the grand final. They will play either Brisbane, who finished in 13th spot last season, or Geelong. If Cornes had won the game in Darwin and put the Power into the next round, the semi-finals of the NAB Cup would have been contested by four of the bottom five teams from 2006.
There has to be a reason for this, possibly injuries, more time training, more incentive to win, or a lack of importance for the teams who know they can win when its needed.
Brisbane is the exception for this, but Carlton, the Kangaroos and Geelong have not had many injuries over preseason. If the Lions can put together a win streak with victories over two top 8 teams from last season without Brown and Bradshaw, they should be able to play a lot better compared to last season when they are at full strength.
Everyone knows the Kangaroos have been preparing for 2007 before the games in 2006 were over. They shut down a couple of veterans, made sure everyone was going to be ready for 2007. So far it has worked for them, but if it continues to work for the regular season then they should be congratulated.
Up until a few weeks ago Carlton would have really needed the money from winning the preseason. They probably still have to find money to purchase snacks and drinks for the enormous board they elected, and transporting the team's leadership group could also be pricey, but their new guy in charge has bigger pockets than VFL Park used to. The Kangaroos would be happy to bring in a bit more money, and Geelong and Brisbane wouldn't say no to it either. There is a greater importance on securing the prize money for these teams than if the Crows or Eagles were still playing in the NAB Cup.
There are other incentives, and for the Kangaroos they are getting the media time that they often miss out on. Being on TV every week, and winning, is a good way of promoting their upcoming regular season games on the Gold Coast. They need members and the best advertisement for that is to win games with exciting players.
While some of these proposed reasons make sense, at least for picking a team and how much the stars play, it is not the way to get the best out of the players. Competition for spots is what these bottom teams from last season have. Wojcinksi put in a great effort as a small defender, and when Geelong played again they got the same from David Johnson. The Kangaroos have a few open spots in their forward line, it seemed that Aaron Edwards was a chance after his game against Collingwood but then Leigh Brown had a huge game against the Dockers.
High draft picks can also help a team improve, and that is happening with some of the teams here. Selwood has been one of Geelong's best players and the Kangaroos have gotten plenty of goals from Thomas and Hansen. Gibbs had some solid games but nothing huge yet, while the Lions have been winning despite missing their big pick, Matthew Leuenberger.
After a few more games there will be a coach who is being applauded for lifting his team off the bottom half of the standings from last season and taking them to the preseason trophy. While this is important, what will be remembered is if the team can continue with that form during the real season and make sure they don't replicate the previous two winners of the preseason tournament who failed when the games really mattered.
1: Fremantle Dockers (1 in last AFL Power Rankings)
They slipped up, as did a few teams this past weekend. They should be better when Parker and Tarrant are playing, although the tribunal could affect the Dockers' team for round 1.
2: Western Bulldogs (2)
Things didn't go to plan for the NAB Cup, but the Bulldogs will have Cooney, Griffen, Akermanis and many more stars ready for round 1.
3: Sydney Swans (4)
Everitt played his first game for them, the Swans should be close to full strength for their round 1 game.
4: West Coast Eagles (3)
Having problems scoring goals, that isn't new and they usually find a way to win when the games count.
5: Adelaide Crows (5)
They are getting players back, like Burton, so things are looking good for the Crows.
6: Geelong Cats (6)
Should be favourites for the NAB Cup, although winning it last year didn't help them for the real games. Mooney is playing better as a big forward while Selwood is the most impressive first year player in the AFL so far. The Cats aren't always making the right decisions, but to rest Ottens and King for the Darwin game should help them.
7: Melbourne Demons (7)
The Demons often start the season slowly. They should be going for round 1.
8: Hawthorn Hawks (8)
Used an odd forward strategy for parts of last game, they will need to change that and play a big marking player at centre half forward, not push everyone close to goals and have a big space 50m out.
9: Essendon Bombers (10)
Lloyd is getting better every week, if their veterans stay healthy they can compete with anyone.
10: St Kilda Saints (9)
They get to use the injuries excuse for a couple more weeks, but at least they have Fraser Gehrig back.
11: Kangaroos (13)
They have height and now with players like Lindsay Thomas they are getting some run.
12: Collingwood Magpies (12)
Big Josh Fraser could be their most important player, he kicked 4 goals against the Saints and he not only gives them another forward target but he is still one of the AFL's best ruckmen, and he might have a bit more help there this season with a healthy Richards and also Chris Bryan.
13: Port Adelaide Power (11)
They didn't have a bad game in the rain in Darwin, but they will need to find more goals with Tredrea out for the early rounds. But the Power have to be happy with Rodan, a good choice at the end of the draft.
14: Brisbane Lions (14)
They are winning with their young, underrated midfield. The play of Merrett and Brennan in the back line has also improved.
15: Carlton Blues (15)
They have a winning streak, that's something new. They will be tested by the bigger Kangaroos' ruckmen next week.
16: Richmond Tigers (16)
More injury concerns with Hall and Kingsley out for the early rounds. Maybe Schulz or Pattison can step up and help.
Kangaroos v Fremantle
Brady Rawlings: Missed the game with a small hamstring injury.
Glenn Archer: First game for a while and was solid for stats.
Lindsay Thomas: Another big game, should be a very useful fantasy forward at a very low price.
Leigh Brown: Brown played in Hale's spot as a big forward, and was better than he has ever been, may not replicate that for the regular season.
Brad Moran: Would be one of the better ruckmen for fantasy points, but only if McIntosh is out and Moran starts in the ruck.
Drew Petrie: In his usual role around centre half back, was in the action and will be one of the better bigs for fantasy AFL.
Michael Firrito: Can play in several spots, was the full back this game, won't get the big stats when played there.
Lachlan Hansen: Played forward and kicked a couple of goals, still getting used to AFL, but will be a cheap addition to your fantasy team.
Peter Bell: Just another great game from Bell, is always consistent so is a safe pick for fantasy teams.
Andrew Browne: Another big game, the Dockers probably keep playing him and he might be an option for AFL fantasy teams.
Paul Duffield: A lot of kicks, might be a player to remember when picking fantasy teams.
Jeff Farmer: Found the ball in front of goal. There could be more news about him from this game though.
Paul Hasleby: A great player in the middle for the Dockers, a healthy Hasleby is a big fantasy star.
Michael Johnson: Could be in trouble, with an incident similar to the Stokes report in the Geelong game, possibly connecting high.
Aaron Sandilands: Another big game for hitouts, again got forward but had a bit of a struggle in front of goal.
Dean Solomon: Might miss games as he was reported.
James Walker: Another good game, possibly a fantasy option in 2007.
The Crows defeated Melbourne and of greater importance would have been the play of McLeod and Burton. McLeod played in his usual spot around half back, Burton is back from his injuries after his 4 goal game. The Swans beat the Tigers, Fosdike was back and kicked a couple of goals while Everitt made his first appearance for the Swans. The Eagles lost again, Lloyd kicked 3 goals in the Bombers' victory.
Reports from the Herald-Sun:
McLeod rattles Demons
Spida has bite
Bomber Jetta on target
Hawthorn v Carlton
Jarryd Roughead: Again played as a forward, might be a solid fantasy player but isn’t worth a big price.
Tim Boyle: Had a great game as the third tall forward, should be an inexpensive player to sign.
Jordan Lewis: Lewis, and Clarke, covered plenty of ground and got a lot of the ball. Will get plenty of fantasy points.
Sam Mitchell: Will be one of the best fantasy midfielders in 2007.
Lance Franklin: Plenty of good signs, his actual stats should be enough to justify his price as it will be a lot lower than the best fantasy forwards.
Shane Crawford: Covered a lot of ground, should again be a very good fantasy player.
Simon Taylor: Is a good player for hitouts, hasn't improved in other areas enough to be a good fantasy player yet. For fantasy leagues, his solid play at bounces could reduce Campbell’s playing time and stats a bit.
Grant Birchall: Another impressive game, his game is very suited to getting fantasy points.
Brent Renouf: Is providing a needed tall body in the back line, could be a player for a fantasy bench spot as a ruckman or defender.
Luke Hodge: Played back and in the middle, he should again be eligible in fantasy AFL for both positions.
Travis Tuck: Probably needs another year in the VFL, may be a fantasy option in 2008.
Clinton Young: Should get a regular spot for the Hawks and is a good kick of the ball, which should mean plenty of fantasy points.
Brent Guerra: Had a good game, his career has been inconsistent but he seems to have found a role with the Hawks.
Gary Moss: Looked a bit overwhelmed in his first game, but if a couple of injuries hit their midfield he could be a surprise fantasy player later in 2007.
Jordan Russell: Is getting his chance but not doing enough,
Marc Murphy: Is one of their big stars, and will be for fantasy points too, their captain in 2008.
Bryce Gibbs: Hasn't exploded with stats yet, looks to be a bit of a risk to start him on fantasy teams for round 1. But he has another game next week to show further improvement.
Josh Kennedy: Showed that he would have the ball kicked to him, will be a star in fantasy AFL in the future and should have plenty of solid games this season.
Cain Ackland: Does have the ability to go forward and kick a goal, but not a lot of other skills.
Setanta O’hAilpin: If his fantasy price is low then he might be a good player for a fantasy bench.
Cameron Cloke: Carlton seem to go with him more than Ackland as the game progresses, it sounds strange but this Cloke may have AFL fantasy value.
Heath Scotland: The perfect fantasy stats role, just sitting there alone at half back.
Jarrad Waite: Not as good as last week but his fantasy value is much higher than last season.
Anthony Koutoufides: Was on the bench and also played as a forward, that won't help his fantasy numbers.
Andrew Carrazzo: Could be a good fantasy player with his forward/midfielder role.
Geelong v Port Adelaide
Joel Selwood: Another great game, he plays like a 10 year veteran.
Nathan Djerrkura: Certainly has some skills, should see some action in 2007.
Cameron Mooney: Looks to be a forward this year, could be a good fantasy player, especially if Ottens misses games during the regular season.
Nathan Ablett: Not the best conditions, obviously, but he still looked like he would be a fixture on their forward line this season.
Mark Blake: Might be a good signing if King misses regular season games, Blake has potential.
Mathew Stokes: May have been reported, there didn't seem to be a lot of contact in the incident.
David Johnson: Worked hard so still has a chance at round 1, Wojcinski might be the better option for Geelong and for fantasy teams.
Gary Ablett: Seemed to be in the action all the time, will be on many fantasy teams.
Matthew Scarlett: Had a lot of the ball, will be a useful fantasy player, won't cost the big money.
Brendon Lade: A very valuable fantasy ruckman, had a solid game in the rain.
Travis Boak: Didn't really do enough to guarantee a spot for round 1, but should play a few games this year.
David Rodan: If he is a cheap fantasy forward he might be too good not to sign for a fantasy team.
Damon White: If you want to try a big Port forward with Tredrea out then add White to your fantasy team.
Domenic Cassisi: A bit cheaper than some of the star fantasy midfielders, but isn't far off their statistics.
Chad Cornes: Had a big impact on the result, but for fantasy numbers he was again getting the ball all over the ground.
Brisbane Lions v Western Bulldogs
Nathan Eagleton: Didn't do much early, but showed his foot skills in the second half.
Lindsay Gilbee: The Bulldogs keep looking to give him the ball, and he will keep getting kicks and fantasy points.
Ryan Hargrave: Had a good game, is a useful fantasy player at an affordable price.
Shaun Higgins: If he keeps playing so well the Bulldogs will have to play him, and he might be a good pick for fantasy teams.
Andrew McDougall: Didn't have a big game but is a player to consider as a fantasy forward.
Will Minson: Was very active, could be worth a fantasy spot but is a player to definitely play if Street is out.
Cameron Wight: Doesn't get a lot of the ball, but might be worth the risk in the first couple of rounds with Harris out.
Tim Notting: Always had fantasy potential, he should be better this year with Voss and other veterans gone.
Jared Brennan: Had plenty of the ball, might have even been trusted with a kickout, 2007 could be his year.
Jamie Charman: Was reported. He had a good game providing a target up forward with Brown and Bradshaw out.
Jason Roe: He could have been best-on-ground, a big achievement in his first game back from injury.
Robert Copeland: Another big game, someone to think about signing for fantasy teams.
Cameron Wood: His price is still affordable in fantasy leagues, might be useful if Charman misses a game.
Michael Rischitelli: Will be a very good fantasy midfielder this season.
Marcus Allan: Three big goals got him noticed, may be inexpensive for fantasy teams.
Beau McDonald: It could get a bit crowded in the ruck spots if everyone is healthy this season, McDonald doesn't have many fantasy points anyway.
Good news for Collingwood as Fraser is back from his small knee problem. With 4 goals against the Saints in a practice match it means he will be more than ready to go for round 1.
Practice match results and news from The Age newspaper:
New Magpies waiting in wings
AFL Fantasy Impact:
While it is great news for Collingwood, Fraser starring on the forward line brings some questions for fantasy AFL. If Fraser plays the majority of his time in the forward line it could reduce his fantasy points, unless he is able to kick 3 or 4 goals per game. In fantasy leagues where there are different types of scoring for different types of marks, Fraser’s total marks could decrease as he isn’t roaming around in space up the field but possibly his contested marks could go up as he provides a target in the forward line. Malthouse has to decide how much time Fraser plays in the ruck, and fantasy managers will have to decide if Fraser’s stats could be affected. Bryan or Richards could develop some AFL fantasy value, but if they continue to split the ruck minutes their stats won’t be high enough. If one of them gets the spot helping Fraser and the other is playing at Williamstown then they could be considered for a fantasy team, Bryan with his long-kicking skills would seem to have the better game for fantasy than Richards.
A small update to the fantasy player rankings and also included are the total possessions for round 1 of the NAB Cup. The player ranking, 1 to 10, is to give an estimate of how good a fantasy player they will be in 2007. Players at 10 are great, players at 1 are unlikely to see action, and everything in between is a guide to how good the player will be in fantasy statistics. The unofficial statistics for the NAB Cup should not be given too much importance, with extended benches and teams looking to experiment with their lineup they may not be indicative of how a player will go during the regular season. On the following list, there are some players who played for round 1 but their statistics are unavailable at the moment.
Nathan Bassett 8
NAB Cup Round 1 total possessions: 20
Rhett Biglands 1
Nathan Bock 7
NAB Cup Round 1 total possessions: 16
Matthew Bode 7
NAB Cup Round 1 total possessions: 8
Brett Burton 9
Bryce Campbell 3
Michael Doughty 8
NAB Cup Round 1 total possessions: 13
Richard Douglas 6
NAB Cup Round 1 total possessions: 11
Tyson Edwards 9
NAB Cup Round 1 total possessions: 9
Nick Gill 3
Simon Goodwin 9
Jonathon Griffin 4
NAB Cup Round 1 total possessions: 10
Trent Hentschel 1
John Hinge 2
Benjamin Hudson 7
NAB Cup Round 1 total possessions: 19
Luke Jericho 2
Graham Johncock 9
Chris Knights 4
NAB Cup Round 1 total possessions: 23
David MacKay 2
Ivan Maric 2
Kris Massie 5
Martin Mattner 8
NAB Cup Round 1 total possessions: 6
Ken McGregor 5
Andrew McLeod 9
NAB Cup Round 1 total possessions: 8
John Meesen 2
NAB Cup Round 1 total possessions: 1
Ian Perrie 5
Darren Pfeiffer
NAB Cup Round 1 total possessions: 8
Jason Porplyzia 7
NAB Cup Round 1 total possessions: 15
Brent Reilly 7
NAB Cup Round 1 total possessions: 15
Mark Ricciuto 8
Ben Rutten 5
NAB Cup Round 1 total possessions: 13
James Sellar 3
Robert Shirley 6
NAB Cup Round 1 total possessions: 19
Scott Stevens 6
NAB Cup Round 1 total possessions: 14
Scott Thompson 8
NAB Cup Round 1 total possessions: 17
Kurt Tippett 2
Jason Torney 4
NAB Cup Round 1 total possessions: 12
Nathan van Berlo 4
NAB Cup Round 1 total possessions: 8
Bernie Vince 2
Scott Welsh 7
NAB Cup Round 1 total possessions: 7
Jed Adcock 7
NAB Cup Round 1 total possessions: 11
Marcus Allan
NAB Cup Round 1 total possessions: 4
Simon Black 9
NAB Cup Round 1 total possessions: 24
Daniel Bradshaw 7
Jared Brennan 4
NAB Cup Round 1 total possessions: 17
Jonathan Brown 9
Jamie Charman 7
NAB Cup Round 1 total possessions: 11
Mitchell Clark 3
Robert Copeland 4
NAB Cup Round 1 total possessions: 18
Josh Drummond 7
Ben Fixter 4
NAB Cup Round 1 total possessions: 19
Pat Garner 3
Richard Hadley 4
Scott Harding 3
NAB Cup Round 1 total possessions: 14
James Hawksley 2
Rhan Hooper 4
Chris Johnson 6
NAB Cup Round 1 total possessions: 8
Nigel Lappin 6
Matthew Leuenberger 3
Joel Macdonald 5
Beau McDonald 2
NAB Cup Round 1 total possessions: 5
Ashley McGrath 4
NAB Cup Round 1 total possessions: 0
Daniel Merrett 3
NAB Cup Round 1 total possessions: 2
Wayde Mills 2
NAB Cup Round 1 total possessions: 11
Matthew Moody 6
NAB Cup Round 1 total possessions: 15
Tim Notting 6
NAB Cup Round 1 total possessions: 2
Joel Patfull 5
NAB Cup Round 1 total possessions: 14
Luke Power 9
NAB Cup Round 1 total possessions: 11
Albert Proud 4
Michael Rischitelli 7
NAB Cup Round 1 total possessions: 24
Jason Roe 7
Chris Schmidt 4
Christopher Scott 5
Troy Selwood 6
Sam Sheldon 2
Justin Sherman 8
NAB Cup Round 1 total possessions: 14
Cheynee Stiller 7
NAB Cup Round 1 total possessions: 14
Matt Tyler 3
Cameron Wood 4
NAB Cup Round 1 total possessions: 7
Cain Ackland 3
NAB Cup Round 1 total possessions: 5
Joe Anderson 3
Mark Austin 2
Jordan Bannister 2
Clinton Benjamin 2
Adam Bentick 6
Eddie Betts 5
NAB Cup Round 1 total possessions: 11
Luke Blackwell 6
Paul Bower 4
Andrew Carrazzo 6
NAB Cup Round 1 total possessions: 23
Cameron Cloke 3
NAB Cup Round 1 total possessions: 10
Jake Edwards
Brendan Fevola 8
NAB Cup Round 1 total possessions: 10
Bradley Fisher 4
NAB Cup Round 1 total possessions: 11
Craig Flint 2
Bryce Gibbs 7
Shaun Grigg 3
Shaun Hampson 2
Adam Hartlett 2
Ryan Houlihan 6
NAB Cup Round 1 total possessions: 25
Josh Kennedy 6
NAB Cup Round 1 total possessions: 5
Anthony Koutoufides 6
NAB Cup Round 1 total possessions: 13
Matthew Lappin 5
NAB Cup Round 1 total possessions: 8
Dylan McLaren 3
Marc Murphy 8
NAB Cup Round 1 total possessions: 15
Setanta O'hAilpin 5
NAB Cup Round 1 total possessions: 4
Anthony Raso 2
Jordan Russell 3
NAB Cup Round 1 total possessions: 11
Jason Saddington 3
NAB Cup Round 1 total possessions: 3
Heath Scotland 9
NAB Cup Round 1 total possessions: 17
Kade Simpson 8
NAB Cup Round 1 total possessions: 17
Nick Stevens 8
NAB Cup Round 1 total possessions: 21
David Teague 2
Bret Thornton 7
NAB Cup Round 1 total possessions: 14
Jarrad Waite 6
NAB Cup Round 1 total possessions: 16
Andrew Walker 7
NAB Cup Round 1 total possessions: 10
Lance Whitnall 9
NAB Cup Round 1 total possessions: 12
Simon Wiggins 5
John Anthony 2
Nathan Brown 3
Chris Bryan 3
NAB Cup Round 1 total possessions: 11
Nathan Buckley 9
Scott Burns 7
NAB Cup Round 1 total possessions: 29
James Clement 7
Travis Cloke 3
NAB Cup Round 1 total possessions: 11
Ryan Cook 2
NAB Cup Round 1 total possessions: 8
Shannon Cox 2
Benjamin Davies 2
NAB Cup Round 1 total possessions: 14
Leon Davis 4
NAB Cup Round 1 total possessions: 14
Chris Dawes 1
Brad Dick 2
Alan Didak 8
Chris Egan 5
NAB Cup Round 1 total possessions: 13
Josh Fraser 8
Tyson Goldsack 2
Brodie Holland 6
Sam Iles 3
NAB Cup Round 1 total possessions: 11
Ben Johnson 7
NAB Cup Round 1 total possessions: 28
Paul Licuria 5
Tarkyn Lockyer 7
Ryan Lonie 7
NAB Cup Round 1 total possessions: 17
Nick Maxwell 6
NAB Cup Round 1 total possessions: 18
Paul Medhurst 5
NAB Cup Round 1 total possessions: 9
Shane O'Bree 7
Harry O'Brien 4
NAB Cup Round 1 total possessions: 2
Scott Pendlebury 5
NAB Cup Round 1 total possessions: 29
Simon Prestigiacomo 4
Ben Reid 3
Guy Richards 2
NAB Cup Round 1 total possessions: 9
Anthony Rocca 6
Sean Rusling 6
NAB Cup Round 1 total possessions: 5
Heath Shaw 9
NAB Cup Round 1 total possessions: 24
Rhyce Shaw 5
NAB Cup Round 1 total possessions: 21
Daniel Stanley 2
Dane Swan 8
Dale Thomas 6
NAB Cup Round 1 total possessions: 17
Alan Toovey 2
NAB Cup Round 1 total possessions: 6
Shane Wakelin 3
NAB Cup Round 1 total possessions: 12
Mark Bolton 2
Kepler Bradley 4
NAB Cup Round 1 total possessions: 20
Scott Camporeale 5
Richard Cole 4
NAB Cup Round 1 total possessions: 8
Alwyn Davey 3
Courtenay Dempsey 3
NAB Cup Round 1 total possessions: 8
Ricky Dyson 4
Dustin Fletcher 9
NAB Cup Round 1 total possessions: 15
Scott Gumbleton 3
Chris Heffernan 4
David Hille 8
NAB Cup Round 1 total possessions: 6
James Hird 9
NAB Cup Round 1 total possessions: 14
Tom Hislop 5
Bachar Houli 2
Leroy Jetta 4
Courtney Johns 4
NAB Cup Round 1 total possessions: 5
Jason Johnson 7
Mark Johnson 6
Jason Laycock 4
NAB Cup Round 1 total possessions: 7
Andrew Lee 2
Matthew Lloyd 9
NAB Cup Round 1 total possessions: 10
Sam Lonergan
Andrew Lovett 6
NAB Cup Round 1 total possessions: 18
Nathan Lovett-Murray 8
NAB Cup Round 1 total possessions: 14
Scott Lucas 8
NAB Cup Round 1 total possessions: 10
Adam McPhee 7
Mark McVeigh 4
NAB Cup Round 1 total possessions: 13
Mal Michael 4
NAB Cup Round 1 total possessions: 13
Angus Monfries 5
NAB Cup Round 1 total possessions: 22
Jay Nash 4
Jay Neagle 3
Damien Peverill 5
NAB Cup Round 1 total possessions: 15
Kyle Reimers 2
Paddy Ryder 2
NAB Cup Round 1 total possessions: 5
Henry Slattery 3
NAB Cup Round 1 total possessions: 7
Brent Stanton 9
NAB Cup Round 1 total possessions: 14
Jobe Watson 9
NAB Cup Round 1 total possessions: 23
Andrew Welsh 7
NAB Cup Round 1 total possessions: 17
Jason Winderlich 4
NAB Cup Round 1 total possessions: 18
Peter Bell 9
Heath Black 7
Andrew Browne 3
NAB Cup Round 1 total possessions: 13
Adam Campbell 2
NAB Cup Round 1 total possessions: 4
Josh Carr 8
NAB Cup Round 1 total possessions: 20
Matthew Carr 5
NAB Cup Round 1 total possessions: 10
Clayton Collard 3
Troy Cook 5
Ryan Crowley 5
NAB Cup Round 1 total possessions: 13
Steven Dodd 5
NAB Cup Round 1 total possessions: 12
Marcus Drum 3
NAB Cup Round 1 total possessions: 9
Paul Duffield 4
NAB Cup Round 1 total possessions: 12
Ryley Dunn 3
Jeff Farmer 7
NAB Cup Round 1 total possessions: 7
Daniel Gilmore
NAB Cup Round 1 total possessions: 13
Antoni Grover 5
NAB Cup Round 1 total possessions: 15
Robert Haddrill 5
Paul Hasleby 8
NAB Cup Round 1 total possessions: 13
Roger Hayden 5
NAB Cup Round 1 total possessions: 13
Des Headland 7
NAB Cup Round 1 total possessions: 24
Garrick Ibbotson
Michael Johnson 8
NAB Cup Round 1 total possessions: 11
Justin Longmuir 7
NAB Cup Round 1 total possessions: 8
Shaun McManus 5
NAB Cup Round 1 total possessions: 14
Luke McPharlin
NAB Cup Round 1 total possessions: 16
Calib Mourish 2
David Mundy 8
NAB Cup Round 1 total possessions: 15
Ryan Murphy 5
NAB Cup Round 1 total possessions: 10
Brock O'Brien 2
Shane Parker 5
Matthew Pavlich 9
NAB Cup Round 1 total possessions: 11
Brett Peake 8
NAB Cup Round 1 total possessions: 7
Aaron Sandilands 6
NAB Cup Round 1 total possessions: 14
Byron Schammer 5
Dean Solomon 6
NAB Cup Round 1 total possessions: 11
Chris Tarrant 7
Scott Thornton 3
James Walker 4
NAB Cup Round 1 total possessions: 24
Robert Warnock 2
Luke Webster 5
NAB Cup Round 1 total possessions: 11
Gary Ablett 9
NAB Cup Round 1 total possessions: 25
Nathan Ablett 5
NAB Cup Round 1 total possessions: 9
Jimmy Bartel 9
NAB Cup Round 1 total possessions: 13
Mark Blake 2
NAB Cup Round 1 total possessions: 8
Shannon Byrnes 4
NAB Cup Round 1 total possessions: 24
Tim Callan 4
Paul Chapman 9
Joel Corey 9
NAB Cup Round 1 total possessions: 23
Nathan Djerrkura 3
Matt Egan 4
NAB Cup Round 1 total possessions: 10
Corey Enright 9
NAB Cup Round 1 total possessions: 23
Ryan Gamble 3
Charlie Gardiner 4
NAB Cup Round 1 total possessions: 15
Tom Harley 4
NAB Cup Round 1 total possessions: 7
Tom Hawkins 5
Simon Hogan 2
Sam Hunt 3
NAB Cup Round 1 total possessions: 8
Josh Hunt 8
NAB Cup Round 1 total possessions: 9
David Johnson 4
Steve Johnson 3
James Kelly 5
NAB Cup Round 1 total possessions: 17
Steven King 4
NAB Cup Round 1 total possessions: 11
Cameron Ling 8
NAB Cup Round 1 total possessions: 33
Andrew Mackie 5
NAB Cup Round 1 total possessions: 20
Darren Milburn 8
NAB Cup Round 1 total possessions: 5
Cameron Mooney 6
NAB Cup Round 1 total possessions: 12
Brad Ottens 7
NAB Cup Round 1 total possessions: 9
Stephen Owen 2
Henry Playfair 3
Brent Prismall 2
NAB Cup Round 1 total possessions: 18
Max Rooke 5
Matthew Scarlett 7
NAB Cup Round 1 total possessions: 9
Joel Selwood 5
Matthew Spencer 2
Mathew Stokes 4
NAB Cup Round 1 total possessions: 21
Kane Tenace 3
Travis Varcoe 3
Trent West 2
David Wojcinski 4
NAB Cup Round 1 total possessions: 21
Max Bailey 1
Chance Bateman 5
NAB Cup Round 1 total possessions: 18
Grant Birchall 7
NAB Cup Round 1 total possessions: 23
Tim Boyle 3
NAB Cup Round 1 total possessions: 3
Campbell Brown 7
NAB Cup Round 1 total possessions: 7
Robert Campbell 8
NAB Cup Round 1 total possessions: 5
Tim Clarke 4
NAB Cup Round 1 total possessions: 15
Shane Crawford 8
NAB Cup Round 1 total possessions: 21
Trent Croad 5
Zac Dawson 2
NAB Cup Round 1 total possessions: 7
Ben Dixon 4
Beau Dowler 4
Xavier Ellis 4
Lance Franklin 7
NAB Cup Round 1 total possessions: 13
Stephen Gilham 3
NAB Cup Round 1 total possessions: 12
Brent Guerra 3
NAB Cup Round 1 total possessions: 11
Luke Hodge 9
NAB Cup Round 1 total possessions: 23
Danny Jacobs 6
Josh P. Kennedy 4
Rick Ladson 5
NAB Cup Round 1 total possessions: 3
Jordan Lewis 5
NAB Cup Round 1 total possessions: 20
Matthew Little 2
Ben McGlynn 2
NAB Cup Round 1 total possessions: 15
Sam Mitchell 9
NAB Cup Round 1 total possessions: 14
Jarryd Morton 2
Garry Moss 3
Thomas Murphy 4
Beau Muston 3
NAB Cup Round 1 total possessions: 8
Michael Osborne 3
Brent Renouf 4
Jarryd Roughead 4
NAB Cup Round 1 total possessions: 12
Brad Sewell 7
NAB Cup Round 1 total possessions: 16
Joel Smith 4
Simon Taylor 2
NAB Cup Round 1 total possessions: 10
Mitchell Thorp 4
Josh Thurgood 3
Travis Tuck 2
Richard Vandenberg 4
Mark Williams 6
NAB Cup Round 1 total possessions: 9
Clinton Young 3
NAB Cup Round 1 total possessions: 11
Glenn Archer 5
Leigh Brown 4
Aaron Edwards 4
NAB Cup Round 1 total possessions: 10
Michael Firrito 5
NAB Cup Round 1 total possessions: 20
Joshua Gibson 4
NAB Cup Round 1 total possessions: 17
Todd Goldstein 2
Shannon Grant 7
NAB Cup Round 1 total possessions: 15
Kasey Green 4
Blake Grima 2
David Hale 6
NAB Cup Round 1 total possessions: 9
Lachlan Hansen 5
NAB Cup Round 1 total possessions: 8
Leigh Harding 1
Daniel Harris 8
NAB Cup Round 1 total possessions: 19
Brent Harvey 7
NAB Cup Round 1 total possessions: 16
Jonathan Hay 1
Corey Jones 8
NAB Cup Round 1 total possessions: 21
Ed Lower 2
Daniel McConnell 5
Hamish McIntosh 5
NAB Cup Round 1 total possessions: 12
Scott McMahon 2
Brad Moran 5
NAB Cup Round 1 total possessions: 14
Drew Petrie 8
NAB Cup Round 1 total possessions: 15
Daniel Pratt 7
NAB Cup Round 1 total possessions: 14
Brady Rawlings 7
NAB Cup Round 1 total possessions: 15
Matt Riggio 3
NAB Cup Round 1 total possessions: 12
Ben Ross 3
Eddie Sansbury 3
NAB Cup Round 1 total possessions: 20
Adam Simpson 8
NAB Cup Round 1 total possessions: 21
Jess Sinclair 8
NAB Cup Round 1 total possessions: 25
Jesse W. Smith 4
Andrew Swallow 3
NAB Cup Round 1 total possessions: 14
Lindsay Thomas 4
NAB Cup Round 1 total possessions: 11
Nathan Thompson 6
NAB Cup Round 1 total possessions: 7
David Trotter 2
Callum Urch 2
Gavin Urquhart 3
Ben Warren 2
Shannon Watt 4
NAB Cup Round 1 total possessions: 19
Daniel Wells 8
NAB Cup Round 1 total possessions: 21
Djaran Whyman 4
Clint Bartram 5
Matthew Bate 6
NAB Cup Round 1 total possessions: 19
Daniel Bell 4
NAB Cup Round 1 total possessions: 16
Clint Bizzell 3
NAB Cup Round 1 total possessions: 6
Nathan D. Brown 5
NAB Cup Round 1 total possessions: 29
Cameron Bruce 9
NAB Cup Round 1 total possessions: 29
Simon Buckley 2
NAB Cup Round 1 total possessions: 11
Nathan Carroll 4
NAB Cup Round 1 total possessions: 16
Aaron Davey 7
Lynden Dunn 5
NAB Cup Round 1 total possessions: 10
Ryan Ferguson 2
James Frawley 3
Colin Garland 2
Simon Godfrey 4
NAB Cup Round 1 total possessions: 14
Brad Green 8
NAB Cup Round 1 total possessions: 20
Ben Holland 4
Mark Jamar 3
NAB Cup Round 1 total possessions: 10
Chris Johnson 4
NAB Cup Round 1 total possessions: 20
Paul Johnson 3
NAB Cup Round 1 total possessions: 12
Travis Johnstone 8
Nathan Jones 6
NAB Cup Round 1 total possessions: 18
James McDonald 9
NAB Cup Round 1 total possessions: 21
Brock McLean 9
Brad Miller 6
NAB Cup Round 1 total possessions: 4
Brent Moloney 7
David Neitz 7
NAB Cup Round 1 total possessions: 9
Heath Neville 2
Michael Newton 2
Ricky Petterd 3
Byron Pickett 4
Jared Rivers 8
NAB Cup Round 1 total possessions: 10
Russell Robertson 6
NAB Cup Round 1 total possessions: 10
Colin Sylvia 5
Daniel Ward 6
NAB Cup Round 1 total possessions: 21
Matthew Warnock 3
NAB Cup Round 1 total possessions: 11
Isaac Weetra 2
Paul Wheatley 4
Matthew Whelan 8
Jeff White 8
Adem Yze 7
NAB Cup Round 1 total possessions: 11
Greg Bentley 4
NAB Cup Round 1 total possessions: 7
Travis Boak 5
Dean Brogan 6
NAB Cup Round 1 total possessions: 11
Peter Burgoyne 7
NAB Cup Round 1 total possessions: 19
Shaun Burgoyne 9
NAB Cup Round 1 total possessions: 17
Alipate Carlile 2
Domenic Cassisi 7
NAB Cup Round 1 total possessions: 12
Troy Chaplin 7
NAB Cup Round 1 total possessions: 19
Adam Cockshell 2
Chad Cornes 9
NAB Cup Round 1 total possessions: 12
Kane Cornes 9
NAB Cup Round 1 total possessions: 24
Fabian Deluca 2
Brett Ebert 6
NAB Cup Round 1 total possessions: 6
Jonathan Giles 2
Robert Gray 2
Nathan Krakouer 3
Brendon Lade 8
NAB Cup Round 1 total possessions: 11
Tom Logan 4
NAB Cup Round 1 total possessions: 13
Nathan Lonie 7
NAB Cup Round 1 total possessions: 18
Nick Lower 3
NAB Cup Round 1 total possessions: 10
Josh Mahoney 6
NAB Cup Round 1 total possessions: 10
Hugh Minson 2
Daniel Motlop 5
NAB Cup Round 1 total possessions: 14
Danyle Pearce 7
NAB Cup Round 1 total possessions: 16
Michael Pettigrew 4
NAB Cup Round 1 total possessions: 4
David Rodan 3
NAB Cup Round 1 total possessions: 14
Steven Salopek 9
NAB Cup Round 1 total possessions: 22
Paul Stewart 2
Jacob Surjan 5
Brad Symes 8
Matt Thomas 3
Adam Thomson 3
NAB Cup Round 1 total possessions: 12
Toby Thurstans 3
Warren Tredrea 6
Darryl Wakelin 3
NAB Cup Round 1 total possessions: 9
Justin Westhoff 2
Damon White 4
NAB Cup Round 1 total possessions: 12
Ryan Williams 2
Ryan Willits 3
NAB Cup Round 1 total possessions: 4
Michael Wilson 5
NAB Cup Round 1 total possessions: 19
Joel Bowden 9
NAB Cup Round 1 total possessions: 23
Patrick Bowden 8
Nathan G. Brown 6
NAB Cup Round 1 total possessions: 17
Travis Casserly 3
Andrew Collins 2
Daniel Connors 2
Mark Coughlan 1
Brett Deledio 8
NAB Cup Round 1 total possessions: 9
Shane Edwards 3
Nathan Foley 5
NAB Cup Round 1 total possessions: 17
Darren Gaspar 3
NAB Cup Round 1 total possessions: 9
Ray Hall 3
Brent Hartigan 4
NAB Cup Round 1 total possessions: 8
Cleve Hughes 4
NAB Cup Round 1 total possessions: 5
Chris Hyde 3
NAB Cup Round 1 total possessions: 8
Daniel Jackson 2
NAB Cup Round 1 total possessions: 3
Kane Johnson 6
Kent Kingsley 3
Trent Knobel 4
NAB Cup Round 1 total possessions: 6
Andrew Krakouer 6
NAB Cup Round 1 total possessions: 4
Luke McGuane 2
Danny Meyer 3
NAB Cup Round 1 total possessions: 4
Kelvin Moore 3
NAB Cup Round 1 total possessions: 6
Chris Newman 6
NAB Cup Round 1 total possessions: 17
Jarrad Oakley-Nicholls 3
Adam Pattison 3
Carl Peterson 2
Kayne Pettifer 8
NAB Cup Round 1 total possessions: 11
Graham Polak 5
NAB Cup Round 1 total possessions: 21
Dean Polo 6
NAB Cup Round 1 total possessions: 17
Andrew Raines 7
NAB Cup Round 1 total possessions: 17
Matthew Richardson 8
NAB Cup Round 1 total possessions: 9
Jack Riewoldt 3
Jay Schulz 3
Troy Simmonds 7
Richard Tambling 6
NAB Cup Round 1 total possessions: 12
Will Thursfield 3
Greg Tivendale 7
NAB Cup Round 1 total possessions: 25
Shane Tuck 8
NAB Cup Round 1 total possessions: 21
Matthew White 4
NAB Cup Round 1 total possessions: 4
Jarryd Allen 4
David Armitage 6
Steven Baker 5
NAB Cup Round 1 total possessions: 3
Luke Ball 8
Shane Birss 4
NAB Cup Round 1 total possessions: 12
Jason Blake 2
NAB Cup Round 1 total possessions: 9
Barry Brooks 4
NAB Cup Round 1 total possessions: 7
Matthew Clarke 3
NAB Cup Round 1 total possessions: 4
Raphael Clarke 2
Xavier Clarke 5
NAB Cup Round 1 total possessions: 20
Nick Dal Santo 8
Matthew Ferguson 2
NAB Cup Round 1 total possessions: 24
Aaron Fiora 4
NAB Cup Round 1 total possessions: 13
Leigh Fisher 7
Samuel Fisher 8
NAB Cup Round 1 total possessions: 19
Michael Gardiner 4
Fraser Gehrig 7
Sam Gilbert 3
Brendon Goddard 8
NAB Cup Round 1 total possessions: 13
Jason Gram 7
NAB Cup Round 1 total possessions: 19
James Gwilt 3
NAB Cup Round 1 total possessions: 19
Aaron Hamill 4
Robert Harvey 7
Lenny Hayes 8
Brad Howard 3
Max Hudghton 5
Justin Koschitzke 7
Matthew Maguire 6
Andrew McQualter 3
NAB Cup Round 1 total possessions: 14
Stephen Milne 4
NAB Cup Round 1 total possessions: 5
Leigh Montagna 6
NAB Cup Round 1 total possessions: 21
Phillip Raymond 3
Nick Riewoldt 8
Michael Rix 3
NAB Cup Round 1 total possessions: 6
Justin Sweeney 3
Andrew Thompson 4
NAB Cup Round 1 total possessions: 23
Brett Voss 5
Fergus Watts 2
Luke Ablett 5
Leo Barry 7
Paul Bevan 5
NAB Cup Round 1 total possessions: 16
Craig Bolton 8
NAB Cup Round 1 total possessions: 23
Jude Bolton 8
Ryan Brabazon 3
NAB Cup Round 1 total possessions: 7
Amon Buchanan 8
NAB Cup Round 1 total possessions: 9
Jared Crouch 5
Daniel Currie 2
Nick Davis 6
NAB Cup Round 1 total possessions: 11
Sean Dempster 5
NAB Cup Round 1 total possessions: 14
Stephen Doyle 3
Peter Everitt 6
Peter Faulks 2
Nic Fosdike 5
Adam Goodes 10
NAB Cup Round 1 total possessions: 14
Heath Grundy 2
Barry Hall 9
Darren Jolly 5
Tadhg Kennelly 7
Brett Kirk 9
Matthew Laidlaw 3
Nick Malceski 4
NAB Cup Round 1 total possessions: 14
Ben Mathews 5
NAB Cup Round 1 total possessions: 23
Jarrad McVeigh 5
NAB Cup Round 1 total possessions: 14
Jarred Moore 2
Daniel O'Keefe 3
Ryan O'Keefe 9
NAB Cup Round 1 total possessions: 11
Michael O'Loughlin 7
Simon Phillips 3
Ted Richards 4
NAB Cup Round 1 total possessions: 13
Lewis Roberts-Thomson 3
Tim Schmidt 3
NAB Cup Round 1 total possessions: 17
Adam Schneider 6
Jonathan Simpkin 3
NAB Cup Round 1 total possessions: 19
Kristin Thornton 2
NAB Cup Round 1 total possessions: 6
Luke Vogels 4
NAB Cup Round 1 total possessions: 5
Jesse White 3
Steven Armstrong 4
NAB Cup Round 1 total possessions: 14
Michael Braun 7
NAB Cup Round 1 total possessions: 13
Mitchell Brown 3
Sam Butler 7
Daniel Chick 4
NAB Cup Round 1 total possessions: 10
Ben Cousins 9
NAB Cup Round 1 total possessions: 26
Dean Cox 9
NAB Cup Round 1 total possessions: 16
Andrew Embley 7
Chad Fletcher 7
NAB Cup Round 1 total possessions: 15
Darren Glass 5
NAB Cup Round 1 total possessions: 12
Jaymie Graham 3
NAB Cup Round 1 total possessions: 8
Ashley Hansen 5
NAB Cup Round 1 total possessions: 10
Tim Houlihan 2
Adam Hunter 6
NAB Cup Round 1 total possessions: 10
Shannon Hurn 2
Brett Jones 4
NAB Cup Round 1 total possessions: 19
Rowan Jones 5
NAB Cup Round 1 total possessions: 11
Chris Judd 10
Daniel Kerr 8
Mark LeCras 5
NAB Cup Round 1 total possessions: 14
Quinten Lynch 7
NAB Cup Round 1 total possessions: 13
Eric MacKenzie 3
Ben McKinley 2
NAB Cup Round 1 total possessions: 3
Mitch Morton 2
Mark Nicoski 4
Matthew Priddis 4
NAB Cup Round 1 total possessions: 26
Matthew Rosa 5
NAB Cup Round 1 total possessions: 25
Ashley Sampi 3
Will Schofield 2
Mark Seaby 3
NAB Cup Round 1 total possessions: 11
Adam Selwood 6
NAB Cup Round 1 total possessions: 6
Matthew Spangher 2
Brent Staker 4
NAB Cup Round 1 total possessions: 12
Tyson Stenglein 8
NAB Cup Round 1 total possessions: 23
James Thomson 2
Beau Waters 4
NAB Cup Round 1 total possessions: 7
David Wirrpanda 8
NAB Cup Round 1 total possessions: 11
Josh Wooden 2
Dylan Addison 4
NAB Cup Round 1 total possessions: 7
Jason Akermanis 8
NAB Cup Round 1 total possessions: 10
Travis Baird 2
NAB Cup Round 1 total possessions: 3
Matthew Boyd 7
NAB Cup Round 1 total possessions: 16
Adam Cooney 8
Daniel Cross 9
NAB Cup Round 1 total possessions: 23
Luke Darcy 4
Nathan Eagleton 5
Andrejs Everitt 3
Cameron Faulkner 4
NAB Cup Round 1 total possessions: 12
Daniel Giansiracusa 7
NAB Cup Round 1 total possessions: 18
Lindsay Gilbee 9
NAB Cup Round 1 total possessions: 15
Chris Grant 6
Ryan Griffen 6
NAB Cup Round 1 total possessions: 15
Mitchell Hahn 5
Ryan Hargrave 5
Brian Harris 5
NAB Cup Round 1 total possessions: 12
Shaun Higgins 3
NAB Cup Round 1 total possessions: 10
Josh Hill 2
Brad Johnson 9
NAB Cup Round 1 total possessions: 10
Malcolm Lynch 3
Damian McCormack 2
NAB Cup Round 1 total possessions: 14
Andrew McDougall 5
NAB Cup Round 1 total possessions: 18
Jordan McMahon 7
NAB Cup Round 1 total possessions: 16
William Minson 4
NAB Cup Round 1 total possessions: 10
Brett Montgomery 4
NAB Cup Round 1 total possessions: 12
Dale Morris 5
Robert Murphy 6
Paul OShea 2
Sam Power 4
NAB Cup Round 1 total possessions: 15
Farren Ray 5
NAB Cup Round 1 total possessions: 10
Matthew Robbins 4
NAB Cup Round 1 total possessions: 9
Wayde Skipper 3
NAB Cup Round 1 total possessions: 3
Brennan Stack 2
Peter Street 5
Stephen Tiller 3
Tim Walsh 3
Scott West 9
NAB Cup Round 1 total possessions: 19
Cameron Wight 4
NAB Cup Round 1 total possessions: 3
Tom Williams 3
Geelong v Port Adelaide
Geelong squad: Tom Harley, Jimmy Bartel, Andrew Mackie, Tim Callan, Josh Hunt, James Kelly, Joel Corey, Trent West, Joel Selwood, Charlie Gardiner, Shannon Byrnes, Nathan Djerrkura, Matthew Egan, Cameron Mooney, Henry Playfair, Nathan Ablett, Mark Blake, Mathew Stokes, David Johnson, Gary Ablett, Matthew Scarlett, Brent Prismall, Joel Reynolds, Sam Hunt, Jason Davenport, Corey Enright, Cameron Ling.
What to watch, for picking AFL fantasy players:
With Ottens out for this game it means that N Ablett has the chance to be the Cats' number 1 forward. The expectation should be 3 or 4 goals for Nathan Ablett, while for the regular season if he can score a couple of goals a game it should be enough for fantasy teams. Selwood gets another game and the cat is out of the bag for him as a fantasy AFL option. Blake gets the number 1 ruck spot for this game, it could be a preview of later in the season if King is out again, don't expect a lot of kicks from Blake but he can get into the action with his handballs. Wojcinski was great last game as a small defender, he is out and David Johnson or Djerrkura will be filling his role, but for fantasy teams Wojcinski would be a much better option.
Port Adelaide squad: 2. Darryl Wakelin, 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:
Ebert didn't have a huge game last week but he and the other Port small forwards could cause Geelong a lot of trouble in this game. Ebert and Mahoney are solid fantasy forwards, and there is a chance that Rodan could join them as he has been playing well for Port Adelaide. With Tredrea out there is a vacancy for a big forward, Pettigrew or Willits might be able to push for that spot, one of them could be a fantasy option for round 1.
Kangaroos v Fremantle
Kangaroos squad: 1. Hamish McIntosh, 3. Brady Rawlings, 4. Daniel Harris, 6. Shannon Grant, 7. Adam Simpson, 8. Daniel Wells, 9. Jess Sinclair, 11. Glenn Archer, 12. Lindsay Thomas, 13. David Trotter, 14. Callum Urch, 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, 32. Eddie Sansbury, 36. Shannon Watt, 38. Josh Gibson, 43. Matt Campbell, 44. Djaran Whyman.
What to watch, for picking AFL fantasy players:
With Hale out it could mean a much bigger role for Edwards, it looks like he will be a regular player for the Kangaroos this season and will find his way onto a few fantasy teams. Lindsay Thomas goes around again and if he again scores a few goals make sure you consider him for a fantasy forward spot.
Fremantle squad: Peter Bell 32, Andrew Browne 36, Adam Campbell 24, Josh Carr 2, Matthew Carr 9, Troy Cook 10, Ryan Crowley 15, Steven Dodd 25, Marcus Drum 30, Paul Duffield 41, Jeff Farmer 33, Daniel Gilmore 27, Antoni Grover 14, Paul Hasleby 4, Roger Hayden 43, Des Headland 11, Michael Johnson 37, Justin Longmuir 20, Shaun McManus 8, Luke McPharlin 18, David Mundy 16, Ryan Murphy 28, Matthew Pavlich 29, Brett Peake 7, Aaron Sandilands 31, Dean Solomon 6, James Walker 19, Luke Webster 1.
What to watch, for picking AFL fantasy players:
Walker and Hayden haven't been too good for fantasy points but that could change if they continue to play as they did last week. Headland was another player who filled up the stats sheet against the Eagles, consistency hasn't been one of his attributes but that could be changing. If he continues to get 20 possessions per game then sign him up for fantasy teams. Solomon and Sandilands both spent time up forward last game, if they can show they will score goals consistently it will give them a few more points in fantasy leagues.
Brisbane Lions v Western Bulldogs
Western Bulldogs squad: Dylan Addison, Travis Baird, Matthew Boyd, Daniel Cross, Nathan Eagleton, Andrejs Everitt, Cameron Faulkner, Daniel Giansiracusa, Lindsay Gilbee, Jarrod Harbrow, Ryan Hargrave, Brian Harris, Shaun Higgins, Josh Hill, Malcolm Lynch, Damien McCormack, Andrew McDougall, Jordan McMahon, Will Minson, Brett Montgomery, Dale Morris, Marty Pask, Sam Power, Farren Ray, Matthew Robbins, Wayde Skipper, Scott West, Cameron Wight.
What to watch, for picking AFL fantasy players:
It will be interesting to see if McDougall can repeat his play from the Swans game, he will once again be the big target up forward with Grant and Darcy out. Eagleton plays his first game of the preseason competition, he is a solid player for fantasy numbers but he does have new competition for the small forward role with Akermanis and also Malcolm Lynch. Faulkner had a good game last week, he might be able to repeat that and solidify his spot in the team.
Brisbane Lions squad: 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, 29. Jason Roe, 30. Robert Copeland, 31. Cameron Wood, 32. Cheynee
Stiller, 35. Michael Rischitelli, 37 Sam Sheldon, 38. Will Hamill, 42. Marcus Allan, 43. Beau McDonald, 45. Daniel Dzufer, 46. Colm Begley.
What to watch, for picking AFL fantasy players:
Jason Roe had a serious knee injury last season so it will be important to Brisbane, and for fantasy teams, to see if he is back to his best. Charman and Wood will have better conditions for this game, Charman has been a very good fantasy ruckman with a lot of playing time in recent years, but Wood could take some of his ruck time which could lower Charman's stats. The Lions didn't need a lot of goals in the wet last round, they will need a lot more goals this time and where they get the goals from could be important, they might find a player who is a fantasy forward sleeper.
Hawthorn v Carlton
Hawthorn squad: 2. Jarryd Roughead, 20. Tim Boyle, 3. Jordan Lewis, 22. Ben McGlynn, 5. Sam Mitchell, 23. Lance Franklin, 6. Mark Williams, 25. Tim Clarke, 9. Shane Crawford, 26. Zac Dawson, 10. Chance Bateman, 27. Stephen Gilham, 28. Matthew Little, 12. Brad Sewell, 13. Simon Taylor, 14. Grant Birchall, 34. Brent Renouf, 15. Luke Hodge, 38. Travis Tuck, 16. Beau Dowler, 39. Robert Campbell, 45. Clinton Young, 18. Brent Guerra, 29. Tom Murphy, 33. Josh Thurgood, 36. Josh Kennedy, 37. Gary Moss, 16. Beau Dowler, 43. Sam Gibson.
What to watch, for picking AFL fantasy players:
It could be Mr Kennedy versus Mr Kennedy in this game if they both play, not important for fantasy AFL but still something of interest. Hawthorn's Josh will be a bit cheaper for fantasy teams than Carlton's. Franklin's game against Melbourne was more than enough to have people signing Franklin for their fantasy teams, but it would still be a good sign if Franklin can have another multiple goal game. Dawson had a solid game against the Demons, he gets another chance against one of Carlton's big forwards. Birchall returns home for this game and another 20-plus possession performance is expected, his fantasy cost will be much higher this season but he could still be a big bargain.
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, 16. Shaun Grigg, 17. Setanta O’hAilpin, 18. Paul Bower, 19. Eddie Betts, 22. Shaun Hampson, 24. Nick Stevens, 25. Brendan Fevola, 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:
With another good game Cameron Cloke could become Carlton's number 1 ruckman, he only has to beat Ackland and McLaren for the spot. Hampson is named in the squad, he has the height but probably needs a lot more time to develop before becoming a regular player. Gibbs didn't do much in the game against Essendon, he should be better this time and is still a player to sign for fantasy teams. If the matchup is Waite against Franklin, it will be of great importance in determining the game's result and for fantasy AFL it could show if either young player is ready to become an elite fantasy player. If Waite can slow down Franklin while still getting 15 to 20 possessions it could mean that Waite will be a big success this season as a fantasy defender.
Here is a piece of memorabilia from a game that was huge at the time but has sort of faded from memory now, Collingwood versus Carlton in the "Game of the Century".
AFL GAME OF THE CENTURY FOOTBALL RECORD
Collingwood was the big favourite for this game, but their 100th birthday party didn't go to plan as Carlton kicked a lot more accurately for goal and won the game, Tony Shaw was also reported. There are a lot of innovations in football and the scheduling of matches, but not a lot of people mention this game that was played on a Thursday night. The reason for the Thursday game, on May 7 1992, was because Collingwood's first ever game was against Carlton and that took place on May 7 1892.
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