Richardson Ready, Simmonds A Possibility Too
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.
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.
