Ultimate practice match intel: Every player reviewed and rated after a huge weekend of footy
It was the biggest trade period in footy history. How did all the new recruits look in their practice matches? We’ve reviewed all of them.
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It was a huge weekend of AFL practice matches.
Who stood out for your team? And where are the potential issues?
See our player ratings from all the big games.
HAWTHORN
- Chris Cavanagh
3 Jai Newcombe – Finished second in the Hawks’ best and fairest last year and has started off 2023 at a similar level. Attended plenty of centre bounces and found plenty of the footy working hard both ways. Finished with 27 disposals and seven clearances.
4 Jarman Impey – Provided some run off half-back as he usually does and logged 18 disposals.
5 James Worpel – Had an underwhelming first practice match against Geelong the previous week, but Hawks fans would have been thrilled with what he showed against the Pies. Was his side’s leading disposal winner on the ground with 30 touches and also had nine clearances.
6 James Sicily – The new skipper worked hard in defence, spending a fair bit of time on Brody Mihocek who was relatively quiet. Took a lot of kick-ins on his way to 22 disposals.
7 Ned Reeves – Was very competitive as the main man in the ruck in the first practice match against Geelong but had a tougher time against the Collingwood pairing of Mason Cox and Darcy Cameron. Logged 13 hitouts but only three disposals around the ground. Did slot a goal in the third quarter, though.
8 Sam Frost – Played his usual role in a key defensive post for the first half before being pulled out of the game at half-time.
9 Changkuoth Jiath – Makes big difference in defence for the Hawks with his intercepting ability and run and rebound. Was managed for the first practice match against Geelong but was impressive on return, particularly in the first half. Finished with 15 touches.
10 Karl Amon – The former Port Adelaide running machine set himself on a wing for most of the day and worked hard to get back and support his defence. Had 14 touches in the first half but only eight more after that.
11 Conor Nash – A quieter game for the wingman, who only found the footy on nine occasions.
12 Will Day – Spent a bit of time down back, up forward and on a wing in the first quarter before being thrown into some centre bounces and playing primarily through the midfield after that. Had some nice centre bounce wins playing as a sweeper, among 20 disposals for the game. Well worth persisting with in the new role.
13 Dylan Moore – Impressed playing mostly as a forward in the first half, mixed in with a little bit of midfield time. Had 15 touches and kicked two goals to the main break before being pulled out of the game.
15 Blake Hardwick – A quiet game from the fierce defender. Logged just seven touches before being rested for most of the second half.
16 Lachlan Bramble – Caught the eye the previous week against Geelong but was relatively quiet in defence this time around. Only had four touches in the first half before finding 11 more after that. Floated forward to kick a goal in the second quarter.
17 Lloyd Meek – Split his time between forward and ruck, helping out Ned Reeves. Booted one goal in the first term and had 15 hitouts but only nine disposals.
20 Chad Wingard – The Hawks need more from one of their few experienced players. Finished with 17 disposals but only went at 59 per cent efficiency his goalkicking radar was off.
22 Luke Breust – The veteran returned after being managed in the first practice match against Geelong but was unusually held goal-less as he finished with 0.3, including one easy miss in the second quarter.
23 Jacob Koschitzke – Took a couple of big pack marks in a positive sign, but looks low on confidence with his goalkicking with was very wayward. Finished with 1.4 from nine disposals.
24 Denver Grainger-Barras – Sat out the first half before coming on during the third quarter and slotting into the defence. Didn’t have an impact.
25 Josh Ward – A classy player who looks set for a big year. Mixed his time between playing onball and on a wing and kicked a fourth-quarter goal to go along with 18 disposals.
26 Fergus Greene – Again caught the eye and firms as a certain starter to fill in for the injured Mitch Lewis up forward in Round 1. Made the most of his opportunities to kick 3.2 from eight disposals.
28 Cam Mackenzie – Wowee. Get him in your KFC SuperCoach team because he’s playing round 1. Had missed the previous practice match against Geelong with a corky, but the No. 7 draft pick from last year slotted straight into the Hawks’ midfield and starred with 24 disposals. Capped off his performance with a third-quarter goal.
30 Sam Butler – Spent the first half on the bench before being activated in the third quarter and heading to the forward line but only found the footy three times.
31 Connor Macdonald – Another young player to get excited about as he looks to take another step forward this year. Booted two goals to go with 17 disposals mixing his time between the forward line and midfield.
32 Finn Maginness – Wore Nick Daicos like a glove in a tagging role, particularly in the first half. Also had 10 disposals of his own.
36 James Blanck – Played almost the entire game down back in a key defensive post but logged only eight disposals and didn’t take a mark in a tough day.
44 Henry Hustwaite – Again played only the second half for a second week but the No. 37 draft pick from last year again showed some good composure with ball in hand as he logged seven disposals from limited game time.
COLLINGWOOD
- Chris Cavanagh
1 Patrick Lipinski – Looks like spending more time across half-forward this year, given Collingwood’s riches through the midfield. More than capable of still having an impact in attack, though. Had 22 disposals and kicked 2.2 before hurting his already strapped left shoulder while laying a tackle midway through the final term.
2 Jordan De Goey – The most influential player on the ground in the first quarter and stepped it up again in the second half. Looks fit and was explosive as he won plenty of clearances and drove a lot of ball inside-50 playing almost exclusively through the midfield. Finished with a game-high 31 disposals, along with eight clearances. Laid a sling tackle on Lloyd Meek in the final quarter which will be looked at by the match review panel.
3 Isaac Quaynor – Provided some run off half back as he usually does, on his way to 18 disposals.
5 Jamie Elliott – Looked hungry in the first half when he was one of the most lively forwards on the ground with nine disposals and two goals. Didn’t add any further stats to his name before he was pulled out of the game midway through the third quarter.
6 Tom Mitchell – Had an impact through the middle playing against his old team for the first time. Was handball-happy as he looked to win first possession and set up teammates, recording 20 handballs and only eight kicks from his 28 disposals.
7 Josh Daicos – All class as usual on a wing in a big game. Finished with 26 disposals and floated forward to kick a goal in the third quarter.
9 John Noble – Only four touches in the first half across half-back but got going after that to finish with 18 disposals.
10 Scott Pendlebury – The former skipper spent some time across half-back but still played significant midfield minutes. He accumulated 11 disposals before being put on ice midway through the third quarter.
11 Dan McStay – Was solid enough in the first half as a key forward in attack, going into the main break with six disposals and two goals to his name. Only added one disposal and one behind to his tallies after that, though.
13 Taylor Adams – Spent a bit more time forward, where he was able to impact with two first-half goals. Played a bit more through the middle in the second half and finished with 22 disposals.
14 Darcy Cameron – Shared the ruck duties with Mason Cox and also had a bit of impact around the ground with 11 disposals to go with his 18 hitouts.
17 Billy Frampton – Played almost the entire game as a key defender alongside Moore, Murphy and Howe for the first half. Doesn’t win a lot of the ball but had some good moments and some not so good moments.
22 Steele Sidebottom – The veteran was primarily playing on a wing but had one of his quieter games with only 12 disposals and a third-quarter goal.
23 Bobby Hill – No Jack Ginnivan? No worries. The small forward was a livewire up forward throughout the game and made the most of his opportunities. He had only four disposals in the first half but recorded five score involvements from them. Booted one goal in the third quarter.
25 Jack Crisp – Spent some time in the middle as well as across half-back and finished with 24 disposals.
26 Reef McInnes – Came into the game midway through the third quarter and headed into attack. Kicked a goal in the third term but missed a sitter in the last quarter.
28 Nathan Murphy – Worked hard down back in a key defensive post but didn’t have a huge impact on the contest.
30 Darcy Moore – The new skipper was reliable as always with his intercept possession wins in defence. Took nine marks to go with 19 disposals.
31 Beau McCreery – Played forward but was largely unsighted for large periods of the match. Had three touches to half-time and finished with seven.
32 Will Hoskin-Elliott – Was a regular in the team last season as he played 24 games but didn’t get any game time in this one until the fourth quarter. Did boot one goal shortly after he came on.
35 Nick Daicos – Uh oh. The tags have already started. Was shadowed by Finn Maginness, particularly in the first half, and didn’t have his usual impact as he logged just four kicks from 10 disposals to the main break. Finished with 17 touches, attending a few more centre bounces in the second half.
37 Oleg Markov – The first look at the SSP addition, who is at his third AFL club after prior stints with Richmond and Gold Coast. Warmed the bench for the first half before being activated midway through the term and heading into defence. Logged eight disposals.
38 Jeremy Howe – Relatively quiet across half-back before being pulled out of the game with nine touches to his name early in the third quarter.
41 Brody Mihocek – Didn’t have a huge impact in a high-scoring game. Copped a corky in the third quarter but played on. Missed a sitter in the final term but still finished with 2.3 from nine touches.
45 Josh Carmichael – Sat out the first half and had limited opportunities in the second half, managing just four disposals.
46 Mason Cox – Shared the ruck duties with Darcy Cameron and had a game-high 28 hitouts but didn’t have much other impact around the ground otherwise.
PORT ADELAIDE
- Matt Turner
1. Tom Jonas – The Power captain had his hands full standing ex-Fremantle skipper Nat Fyfe, who was in his new role as a permanent forward. Gave Fyfe too much space a few times, cut off several other chances and the dual Brownlow Medallist finished with a game-high three goals.
2. Sam Powell-Pepper – Another impressive showing for the bullocking forward/midfielder who has been one of the club’s best performers this pre-season. Used his strength to hold off Andrew Brayshaw and boot the Power’s first goal and provided his usual, workmanlike efforts. Inconsistent until last year, Powell-Pepper is now one of the club’s most reliable players.
3. Ryan Burton – Fremantle small forward Lachie Schultz was able to find space behind him and mark inside 50 a few times as the Dockers rebounded quickly from defence. Made a good spoil close to goal on tall forward Josh Treacy and took several Power kick-ins.
4. Todd Marshall – Relatively quiet day in attack, finishing with nine disposals, four marks and one scoring shot – a behind. After a breakout 2022 campaign, he should benefit from Charlie Dixon’s return.
5. Dan Houston – Gave the Power plenty of drive from half-back and gathered 25 disposals. Looks on track for another strong season after finishing third in the club’s best-and-fairest last year.
6. Kane Farrell – Farrell is settling into his half-back role he finished last season playing. He provided rebound, a piercing kick and even did some nice defensive things, including a desperate lunge to save a goal in the third term.
7. Xavier Duursma – Keen to atone for a disappointing 2022 campaign, Duursma again worked hard both ways, setting up several attacking forays. Some tardy kicking at times let him down.
9. Zak Butters – Split his time between midfield and attack without having a major influence. It was his return game from a shoulder injury so would be expected to step up again in round 1. Had 16 disposals.
12. Trent McKenzie – The key defender lined up in just a third of the match and kicked a goal from beyond 50m during the last quarter. Expected to again battle Tom Clurey for a spot, having been chosen ahead of him on Thursday.
13. Orazio Fantasia – Crunched by Fremantle recruit Jaeger O’Meara during the first quarter before recovering and kicking a goal a short time later. The Power would be pleased the injury-prone goalsneak got through another game, playing 80 per cent of Thursday’s. Finished with eight touches.
14. Miles Bergman – Arguably the Power’s best against the Dockers. Playing on a wing, Bergman registered 25 touches as well as a game-high 651 metres gained. Was neat in possession and kicked a goal. He looks primed to take another step in his development this year.
16. Ollie Wines – The 2021 Brownlow Medallist registered a team-high 26 disposals in a typically industrious performance. Had some nice moments, such as setting up a Bergman goal, but the Power midfield was well beaten.
18. Jason Horne-Francis – Offered a heap of grunt and dash, charging forward from stoppages and laying a great, early chase-down tackle. He played directly, had some neat, drawing passes as well as a couple of poor turnovers and free kicks against.
19. Mitch Georgiades – Finished the game on the bench with cramp. The West Australian did not have a shot at goal in a quiet outing, albeit in just 58 per cent game time.
20. Connor Rozee – Looks to have picked up where he left off after his All-Australian campaign, zipping through the midfield, pushing forward at times and being one of the most creative players for the visitors. He gathered six disposals in the first term and finished with 25, behind only Wines for the Power.
21. Aliir Aliir – Stood key forward Matt Taberner for the most part in what was an intriguing battle. Taberner finished with two majors, but Aliir often read the ball better and was able to cut off Fremantle forays with intercepts.
22. Charlie Dixon – Returned to the side and his usual role as the spearhead of attack, before being moved into the ruck to start the third term to try to combat Sean Darcy’s dominance. Port looked better with him in the middle, which should ensure some interesting match committee discussions ahead of round 1.
26. Riley Bonner – Only played 24 per cent of the game and did not feature until the last quarter, indicating he was not in the Power’s best 23. Not long after being thrown into the action, the wingman was caught holding the ball.
27. Brynn Teakle – Offered something a little different against Darcy in the ruck, leaping into the Fremantle big man, but he played only 28 per cent game time. Made a costly turnover in the defensive half in the first term that resulted in a Dockers goal. Looks likely to start the season out of the Power side.
28. Willem Drew – You know what you are getting with Drew – he works tirelessly as a defensive midfielder and has impressed new assistant Josh Carr this pre-season. Still needs to add more to his offensive game.
29. Scott Lycett – After two strong performances helped him reclaim the No. 1 ruck mantle, Lycett struggled against Darcy, particularly in the first half. Darcy led Fremantle’s dominance in the middle and Lycett could not negate his influence. He is still working his way back from missing most of last season with a shoulder injury but what the Power does in ruck this year remains something to watch. Getting caught napping in possession summed up his day.
31. Francis Evans – The ex-Geelong small forward pushed his selection case with a lively last-quarter cameo that included two majors, a goal assist and another near miss. Only played 35 per cent of the match but created more opportunities than several teammates. With Junior Rioli to return for round 1, Evans may struggle to hold his spot.
33. Darcy Byrne-Jones – Came back into the team after missing last week’s match and played his usual role at half-back.
34. Lachie Jones – With Jase Burgoyne, Farrell, Houston and Byrne-Jones looking locked in at half-back, Jones again played bursts in the midfield, rotating at half-forward. Cannot fault his tenacity and defensive efforts, though needs to improve his kicking.
36. Jase Burgoyne – The Power clearly likes him, playing him for the majority of the game, despite being loaded with half-backs. And it is easy to see why – the son of Power great Peter Burgoyne is composed in possession and makes good decisions.
41. Jed McEntee – Like Evans, McEntee is trying to stake his claim for a small forward berth, although he offers more defensive qualities and not as much of an attacking threat. The Sturt product played more of the game than Evans (56 per cent to 35 per cent) but had less influence.
GEELONG
- Chris Cavanagh
1 Rhys Stanley – Was the starting ruckman for the Cats but split the duties with Ceglar. Had 10 disposals and kicked a goal in the third quarter to go with his ruck duties.
2 Zach Tuohy – Started on a wing and also spent some time in defence. Not his biggest ever night with 16 disposals, but had some good moments including cleverly winning a 1 v 2 in the backline against Daniher and Cameron in the third quarter.
3 Brandon Parfitt – Started at the first centre bounce and spent a fair chunk of his time through the midfield as he logged 16 disposals.
4 Tanner Bruhn – Close to best on ground against Hawthorn the previous week playing a lot of midfield minutes, but started forward against the Lions. Had some more midfield opportunities as the match went on and made the most of them as he racked up 19 disposals and seven tackles. The former Giant should play a lot of footy for the Cats this year.
8 Jake Kolodjashnij – The defender had a relatively quiet night, logging just four disposals before copping a head knock in a marking contest late in the third quarter and being ruled out of the rest of the game.
9 Max Holmes – The Grand Final heartbreak story from last year started on a wing and was lively, particularly early. A very clever player in and around the contest with his breakaway speed. Logged 15 disposals for the night.
11 Cooper Whyte – Got a run in the main side after playing mostly in the VFL match simulation the previous week. Sat out the first half before coming into the game in the third quarter. Had some good moments in the second half.
15 Jonathon Ceglar – Didn’t start in the ruck but ended up having a better night in there than Stanley, with 20 hitouts and six disposals.
16 Sam De Koning – The key defender didn’t have a huge impact on the contest in the first half, before being swung forward in the third quarter and getting on the end of a goal.
17 Esava Ratugolea – Continues to impress in his new role down back. Started on Jack Gunston and also spent time on Joe Daniher. Took a couple of good intercept marks and had 10 disposals for the night. Copped a knock in a marking contest in the third quarter which caused a cut eye but returned to the ground to play out the game.
18 Tyson Stengle – Worked hard up the ground and found a fair bit of the footy but it came at an expense on the scoreboard. Had 20 disposals but only kicked two goals in junk time in the last quarter.
23 Gary Rohan – Returned after missing the previous week’s scratch match against Hawthorn but had a relatively quiet night in a forward line missing Tom Hawkins and Jeremy Cameron. Kicked the Cats’ first goal in the second quarter but it was his only one for the night. Also had to take a few ruck contests at the attacking end given Hawkins’ absence.
24 Jed Bews – Played his usual role in defence but only had seven touches.
27 Sam Menegola – Was picked in the side but, like Blicavs, he never played.
28 Ollie Dempsey – Impressed in the first scratch match against Hawthorn a week earlier as he booted three goals and again started forward against the Lions. Kicked a goal in the second quarter among 13 disposals to put his hat in the ring for some early senior games this year.
29 Cam Guthrie – Was one of the ticks for the Cats through the midfield, particularly in the first half when he 14 touches. Finished with 22 for the night.
30 Tom Atkins – Started at the first centre bounce, after playing only the second half against Hawthorn in the scratch match the previous week. After a stellar 2022, it was a quieter performance with just 13 disposals.
32 Gryan Miers – Not normally a big ball winner as a small forward but worked hard up the ground to rack up a team-high 23 disposals for the night. Didn’t kick a score himself but had four score involvements.
35 Patrick Dangerfield – Led the Cats out for his first game since being named as the club’s new captain, albeit a pre-season affair. Attended the first centre bounce and played a reasonable amount of midfield minutes while also having some time forward. Didn’t register a score but logged 20 disposals.
36 Ollie Henry – One of the standout performers in the first scratch match against Hawthorn with four goals but had a tougher time this week. Went scoreless from 11 disposals and four marks.
37 Sam Simpson – First hitout of the season after missing the practice match against Hawthorn the previous week. Played forward and had 11 disposals in the first half but faded after that as he added just one touch to his name after the main break and did not register a score.
39 Zach Guthrie – Found a bit of the footy in defence with 17 disposals.
42 Mark O’Connor – Had 13 disposals down back playing all four quarters after coming on for only the final term of the main match against Hawthorn the previous week.
44 Tom Stewart – The vice-captain saved the day on a couple of occasions down back with his strong reading of the ball. He did give away a free kick for a hold on Lincoln McCarthy which resulted in a goal at the start of the third quarter. But it was an easy one to laugh off in a pre-season hitout.
45 Brad Close – Ran hard as he always does but the small forward was kept relatively quiet with just 12 disposals and one behind.
46 Mark Blicavs – Was picked but didn’t play due to a bout of gastro. Had played the scratch match the previous week against Hawthorn so will be ready to go in round 1.
BRISBANE
- Chris Cavanagh
Deven Robertson – Started on a wing, where he played for most of the night. Had 15 disposals and a goal.
3 Joe Daniher – The key forward worked hard throughout the night. He got on the end of two easy goals in the first half, the second of which came from a 50m penalty. Wasn’t able to add to the goal tally after the main break, though.
5 Josh Dunkley – The new recruit was in at the first centre bounce alongside Neale and McCluggage. Copped a few knocks but bounced back up and made his way to an equal game-high 31 disposals for the night. Should only get better as he gels with his new teammates.
6 Hugh McCluggage – Spent most the night as an onballer alongside Neale and McCluggage and found plenty of the footy as he often does with 26 disposals.
8 Will Ashcroft – The Lions might have found their next Lachie Neale. The son of a gun is as composed a first-year player as you will see and slotted in seamlessly to the Lions midfield. Started forward and very nearly snapped the first goal of the game, with the ball being touched on the line. Won some good clearances when he was in the centre bounce and got to the right spots around the ground on his way to 26 disposals for the night.
9 Lachie Neale – Has picked up where he left off last year, when he won a third club best-and-fairest. Played onball throughout the night and had an equal game-high 31 disposals as well as kicking a nice long-range goal in the second term.
10 Daniel Rich – The veteran super-boot defender didn’t waste too many of his 20 touches in his usual role across half-back. Turns 33 in June but is still going strong.
11 Lincoln McCarthy – The forward had a few opportunities to hit the scoreboard against his old side. Booted 2.2 from 11 disposals before sitting out the final quarter.
12. Nakia Cockatoo – Sat out the first three quarters, before coming into the game in the final term. Had just two touches from his limited game time.
16 Cam Rayner – Previously a forward, the former No. 1 draft pick started in defence as a new role across halfback beckons this year. He pushed forward on a couple of occasions but spent most his night in the back half and collected 13 touches. There’s work to do, but it might work for Rayner down back.
18 Keidean Coleman – The classy half-back logged 15 disposals and also pushed forward to kick a nice goal in the third quarter.
19 Jack Gunston – The former Hawk looks like being a steal for the Lions after being secured for pick 48 and a future fourth-round selection during the trade period last year. Appears as fit as he’s been in years has great footy smarts which see him find plenty of space in attack. Faded out of the game a little in the second half but booted the first goal of the game after winning a race back to an open goal, among 1.3 he put on the board before the main break.
20 Jaxon Prior – Spent much of his time on a wing and gathered 14 disposals.
22 Harry Sharp – Sat out the first three quarters before coming into the game midway through the final quarter for a quick run. Had just three touches before the final siren sounded.
23 Charlie Cameron – Not the best night from the star small forward. Took a screamer in the second quarter but managed only one behind and had a couple of clangers among his 13 disposals.
26 Conor McKenna – It has been a long time between games for the former Essendon backman, but the Irishman was okay without being outstanding across halfback. Finished with 14 touches.
29 James Tunstill – Quite impressive for a player who only featured in three senior games on debut last season. Spent a bit of time forward and through the midfield and had six score involvements among his 12 touches.
30 Eric Hipwood – The key forward kicked one goal in the opening term among what was an otherwise fairly quiet first half. He copped a corky and a head knock in a marking contest in the third term and was put on ice for the rest of the game.
31 Harris Andrews – The new Lions co-captain was at his very best, marking or spoiling almost everything that came his way in defence. He was reading the ball exceptionally well on his way to 23 disposals and seven marks for the night.
32 Darcy Fort – Spent the first half on the bench as McInerney shouldered the ruck load, before being activated in the third quarter. Spent time both forward and in the ruck and kicked two goals in the final term including a lovely set shot from outside 50.
33 Zac Bailey – Not a bad night for the crafty forward, who played his role with 16 disposals and two goals.
37 Brandon Starcevich – The defender had 13 disposals and took five mark down back.
40 Jack Payne – Was good in defence across the first three quarters before coming off with a left hamstring issue and sitting in the back row on the bench with ice on it in the last quarter.
41 Darragh Joyce– The former St Kilda backman sat out the first three quarters before slotting into defence in the final term after Payne went off with a hamstring.
44 Darcy Wilmot –The spring surprise in finals last year started on a wing and worked hard to get back and support the defence on occasions but didn’t get his hands on a lot of the footy as he finished with nine touches.
46 Oscar McInerney – Was the leading ruckman on the ground with 25 hitouts as the No. 1 man for the Lions. Didn’t have a big impact around the ground though, with just eight disposals and one mark.
ST KILDA
- Chris Cavanagh
4 Jade Gresham – Spent most of his day forward, not attending any centre bounces. Had 18 touches but was not particularly damaging and didn’t hit the scoreboard
5 Brad Crouch – Started at the first centre bounce and was a prolific ball-winner through the day in the midfield, gathering a game-high 34 disposals.
7 Nasiah Wanganeen-Milera – Very good in defence across the afternoon. Used the ball well by foot and made a few intercepts on his way to 23 disposals.
8 Brad Hill – Was picked but pulled out on the day due to personal reasons.
9 Jack Steele – The captain was hard at it in the midfield as he always is.
10 Mitch Owens – The mid-sized forward was the equal-leading goalkicker on the ground with three majors for the day, all of which came in the second half.
11 Hunter Clark – Looking good after being restricted to just eight games last year due to injury. Got some midfield opportunities as well as spending some time across halfback and racked up 24 touches.
13 Ryan Byrnes – Solid enough afternoon on a wing, collecting 17 disposals.
14 Liam Stocker – The former Blue and SSP signing played his role across half-back. Wouldn’t have done his chances of a Round 1 debut in his new colours any harm as he had 19 disposals and took six marks.
16 Dan Butler – Lively as a small forward in the first half and snapped a goal in the second quarter but didn’t see a lot of the footy after the main break. Looked hungry with his pressure and tackling, though.
17 Marcus Windhager – The midfielder made it through only minutes before breaking a bone in his right hand and sitting out the rest of the match. Still expected to be available for round 1.
19 Rowan Marshall – Looks to be loving life back as the No. 1 ruckman following Paddy Ryder’s retirement. Was the dominant big man on the ground and bombed a long goal in the second quarter to go with 24 disposals, seven marks and 18 hitouts. Spent most of the day head-to-head with Sam Draper.
20 Dylan Howard – Played his usual role as a key post in defence.
21 Zaine Cordy – The former Bulldogs backman was used as a key forward throughout the day. He only won six disposals, but competed well at times and brought the ball to ground.
22 Jack Higgins – Hungry for sausages in the forward line as he always is. Booted three goals from 14 disposals in a strong day out.
23 Jack Bytel – Was slated to be a reserve player but came on midway through the first quarter for Windhager after his injury and had a good game through the midfield.
25 Mattaes Phillipou – The No. 10 pick in last year’s draft kicked his side’s first goal in the second quarter with a clever snap. Playing forward throughout the day, it was his only goal but he finished with 15 disposals to throw his hat in the ring for Round 1.
26 Josh Battle – Is settled back in defence and put in a good performance with 17 disposals and seven marks.
29 Jimmy Webster – Played down back and defended reasonably well, while also finding a bit of the footy himself.
32 Mason Wood – Arguably the best player on the ground playing on a wing after a big summer building his tank. Was strong with his marking in the air and gathered 28 disposals, A second-quarter goal was icing on the cake.
33 Ben Paton – Has got an opportunity on a wing, having previously been a defender primarily. Gathered 13 touches for the day.
34 Tom Highmore – Was picked in the side but didn’t receive any game time for the match.
35 Jack Sinclair – Mixed his time between half-back and through the midfield and had 21 disposals.
43 Cooper Sharman – Was picked in the side but didn’t receive any game time for the match.
44 Callum Wilkie – A staple down back who took some good marks and provided some drive off half-back with his kicking.
47 Anthony Caminiti – The late SSP signing surprise put in an eye-catching performance as a key forward. Only had 11 disposals and didn’t hit the scoreboard, but presented well at the ball and took some strong marks. Right in the frame for a Round 1 debut.
ESSENDON
- Chris Cavanagh
1 Andrew McGrath – Has settled back into defence and provided some rebound off half-back with his kicking. Didn’t attend any centre bounces but had 25 disposals for the day.
2 Sam Draper – Went head-to-head with Rowan Marshall in the ruck for most of the afternoon. Won the hitout count with 29 but Marshall had the better of him around the ground.
3 Darcy Parish – A quiet day for the midfielder. Gathered only five disposals to half-time and it didn’t get much better from there as he finished with 10 touches.
6 Jy Caldwell – Ran through the midfield but played less than half of the game time. Came off with a left ankle injury late in the third quarter.
7 Zach Merrett – The new captain was one of the better players for the Bombers with 23 disposals through the midfield.
9 Dylan Shiel – Attended his fair share of centre bounces and also spent some time on a wing. Had 19 disposals for the day, 13 of which were handballs.
10 Sam Weideman – The former Demon started in the goalsquare at full forward but didn’t register a score for the day. Took a few nice marks though and helped out as a back-up ruckman at stages.
11 Will Snelling – Sat out the first three quarters before playing the entire final term. Had four disposals playing forward during that time.
12 Will Setterfield – Started at the first centre bounce and had a good day out through the midfield with 25 disposals.
14 Jordan Ridley – The pick of the Essendon defender. Got himself free time and again and took 12 marks on his way to 27 disposals. Particularly good in the first half.
15 Jayden Laverde – Played alongside Ridley down back and had five marks and 13 disposals for the day.
16 Archie Perkins – Played forward and missed a couple of shots on goal but found a bit of the footy with 17 disposals.
19 Nick Hind – Was picked in the side but didn’t receive any game time for the match.
20 Peter Wright – The key forward had a ripping season last year but this was a quiet game for him. Was barely sighted in the first half aside from one behind in the opening term, before getting on the end of 1.3 after halftime.
22 Sam Durham – Spent time down back and on a wing. Gathered 12 disposals and kicked a third-quarter goal.
23 Harry Jones – Good to see the key forward back out there after a couple of injury interrupted years but he didn’t look like it. Booted 0.1 from seven disposals in a quiet afternoon.
26 Kaine Baldwin – The key forward warmed the bench for the first three quarters. Had two disposals after being activated in the final term.
27 Mason Redman – Solid enough day in defence for the reliable backman with 17 disposals.
29 Jake Kelly – Gathered 22 disposals across half-back.
30 Brandon Zerk-Thatcher – Picked up 18 disposals and nine marks playing at the defensive end.
33 Alwyn Davey Jnr – The father-son pick’s first half was particularly exciting. He kicked the first goal with a quick snap after getting in the right place for the crumb at the front of the pack. Went on to provide some good pressure and took the game on when he had the opportunity with ball in hand. Had 11 disposals to his name at halftime but was quieter after that, only adding two more disposals for the afternoon.
34 Andrew Phillips – Was picked in the side but didn’t receive any game time for the match, with Draper shouldering the ruck duties.
37 Nick Martin – Started on a wing and had a good afternoon with 22 disposals. Could have been better if he had hit the scoreboard, but he only managed 0.3 for the day.
42 Massimo D’Ambrosio – The mid-season draft pick from last year caught the eye in defence. Used the ball typically well from his 17 disposals and even took a couple of nice marks for a smaller player.
43 Anthony McDonald-Tipungwuti – Good to see him back out there but he’s still got a little bit of work to do to get back to full match fitness after taking time away from the game. Played 74 per cent game time but only managed six disposals and 0.1 in the forward line.
47 Jye Menzie – After kicking three goals in the first practice match, he started forward and had some almost moments but it was a tougher day at the office as he managed just 0.1 from nine disposals.
SYDNEY
- Daniel Cherny
1. Chad Warner – Played as an inside midfielder, was busy early, overshadowed by Gulden.
2. Hayden McLean – Played two-thirds of the game, rotating forward and ruck, took a nice grab and kicked two
3. Dylan Stephens – Tidy if unobtrusive performance on the wing.
5. Isaac Heeney – Was on restricted minutes but had some moments of brilliance playing as a deep forward with midfield bursts.
6. Logan McDonald – Went goalless but was industrious and had his best moment with a strong defensive grab.
7. Harry Cunningham – The veteran has been redeployed as a small forward in the absence of Ryan Clarke and it reaped dividends with two goals.
8. James Rowbottom – Did plenty of grunt work around the ball but others were more prominent.
9. Will Hayward – Appeared in flashes but didn’t impact scoreboard until many others.
13. Ollie Florent – Solid display down back where to be fair things were quiet.
16. Braeden Campbell – Worked into the game nicely, drifted forward and kicked an impressive goal.
19. Peter Ladhams – Arguably the best tall on the ground. Beat the Blues rucks around the contest and fought on despite copping a knock to the jaw.
20. Sam Reid – Not yet a spent force on this showing. Looked dangerous and kicked two goals.
21. Errol Gulden – Simply magnificent. Hard to imagine anyone playing a better game. Was everywhere, finished well, an aerial presence even at his height and pressured maniacally.
22. Nick Blakey – A strong game from the rebounding defender, who pushed forward to kick a goal.
23. Lance Franklin – Provided one of the moments of the night with a sublime dribbled goal but looked frustrated and slow at times.
24. Dane Rampe – Serviceable and kept the Blues’ small forwards pretty quiet.
26. Luke Parker – Was excellent, no-fuss Parker. Found a lot of the ball and played a handy second fiddle to Gulden.
27. Justin McInerney – Wasn’t overly influential playing on a wing.
28. Will Edwarfds – Was given a brief taste but barely sighted.
29. Angus Sheldrick – Got his hands on it a bit during what was around a quarter of game time.
30. Tom McCartin – Had his hands full with Charlie Curnow but battled reasonably well.
34. Matt Roberts – Youngster had some nice involvements on the wing to put himself in the round one frame.
39. Paddy McCartin – Wasn’t an especially busy night but did his job.
41. Lachlan Rankin – Untested second-year forward only had a small taste of the action.
44. Jake Lloyd – Steady down back without being needed a great deal.
46. Lachlan McAndrew – Conditions didn’t suit him and he struggled to make an impact from limited game time.
CARLTON
- Daniel Cherny
1. Jack Silvagni – Competed well floating through half-forward. Far from Carlton’s worst.
2. Paddy Dow – Pretty quiet game which ended early with an upper body knock.
3. Jesse Motlop – Kicked a goal but wasn’t a major threat.
4. Lochie O’Brien – Has fallen behind Hollands and Acres and had negligible impact.
5. Adam Cerra – Needed to do more when the heat was on early but found a bit of the ball.
7. Matt Kennedy – Overawed in the first quarter storm before working his way into the game.
12. Tom De Koning – On a tough night for talls he was beaten in the first half but took a couple of excellent second half marks.
13. Blake Acres – Will play round one, clearly. Did his bit including kicking a long-range major.
14. Ollie Hollands – Held down a wing again and looks well in the round one mix.
15. Sam Docherty – Rotated through half-back and the midfield and was typically prolific.
16. Jack Carroll – Played less than a quarter but found the footy.
20. Lachie Plowman – Was a liability at times down back, didn’t look comfortable.
23. Jacob Weitering – One of his side’s best, stopping Franklin for the most part and holding up against the tide.
25. Zac Fisher – Ran hard and kicked a goal but not a massive night.
26. Lachie Cowan – Only the 10 disposals but one excellent contested mark and generally composed.
27. Marc Pittonet – De Koning got the first go in the middle although Pittonet had a crack when given the chance.
29. George Hewett – Finished with 26 disposals but really didn’t do enough to stop the damage early given his defensive importance.
30. Charlie Curnow – Weather didn’t help but the superstar held up his end of the bargain in the absence of Harry McKay.
33. Lewis Young – Outgunned in the air by the Swans, needs more help.
35. Ed Curnow. – Looked a bit off the pace after so little footy in recent times.
36. Josh Honey – Played less than half the game and barely sighted.
38. Sam Durdin – Came on for a quarter and performed solidly.
40. Alex Cincotta – Not as impressive as seven days earlier against the Pies but doesn’t look out of place.
42. Adam Saad – Off the pace, especially given how much ball was coming into the Blues’ defensive 50.
44. Matt Owies – Created chances but couldn’t take them. On the fringes.
ADELAIDE
- Matt Turner
2. Ben Keays – Has embraced his shift from the midfield to half-forward and looks dangerous whenever the ball is near him. Kicked a goal in each quarter to be among the Crows’ best.
3. Sam Berry – The hardworking midfielder looks poised to take another step this year. Buzzed about between contests, registering 19 disposals, four clearances and applying plenty of pressure, as evidenced by winning a holding the ball free kick late then converting the goal.
5. Matt Crouch – Came on late, playing only 15 per cent of the game and did not waste time, gathering nine touches. The midfielder looks set to be on the fringes again.
8. Josh Rachele – Only had 11 disposals but sliced through the Eagles’ midfield a few times. Started several ball-ups in the centre square before pushing forward.
9. Rory Sloane – Another tick for the former captain in his comeback from a season-ending knee injury. Had 18 touches and played 82 per cent of the match, lining up mostly on the wing.
10. Luke Pedlar – Went a long way to locking in a round 1 berth as a small forward after another encouraging showing. Pedlar is powerful, provides grunt, is good in the air and boasts a long kick. His inclusion is keeping Ned McHenry and Lachlan Murphy out of the side.
12. Jordan Dawson – As he often did last season, Dawson (26 disposals) set up so many attacking forays from half-back and the wing. The new captain’s pinpoint kick is a great weapon but his defensive work, such as his intercepting, spoiling and desperation, is probably a little underrated externally. His guts and leadership was exemplified by him running back with the flight of the ball to spoil in the third quarter, knowing a collision was coming and getting crunched. He was on his haunches for a few moments before getting up and playing on.
13. Taylor Walker – Returned to the side after being rested last week and kicked the first goal of the game with a brilliant left-foot snap off one step. Could have booted more, if not for unselfishly assisting teammates twice. Played well overall.
14. Jake Soligo – Used as a high half-forward, on the wing and in the middle, and provided his usual compilation of important little things. Showed his fast hands in traffic on several occasions. Rarely makes bad decisions.
16. Max Michalanney – The draftee defender looks on track to make his AFL debut in round 1 after a solid performance. Selected ahead of the likes of Will Hamill, Michalanney hardly put a foot wrong, making a couple of important spoils and being neat in possession.
20. Mitch Hinge – Again offered plenty of drive from half-back and the wing, cutting off Eagles forward forays then launching the ball forward with his long left-foot kicks to finish with a game-high 582 metres gained. Also had 23 disposals and five tackles to be one of the Crows’ best. Reckon he is a little underrated as a player.
21. Tyler Brown – Featured in only 21 per cent of game time after coming on late, an indication of him being outside the Crows’ best 22. The tall midfielder registered eight disposals.
22. Izak Rankine – Had a quiet first half before kicking the first goal of the third term thanks to an unselfish assist from Walker. Then a Rankine handball set up a goal for Rory Laird. Finished with 13 touches and the second-most tackles (six) on the ground.
23. Shane McAdam – Does not look like a big night on paper – eight disposals, three marks, three tackles – but he is becoming a very handy player for the Crows. His quickness to break away from chasing Eagles helped set up a late goal and his workrate as a high half-forward was impressive.
26. Harry Schoenberg – Not a big night (18 possessions, three tackles) but did not do much wrong either.
28. Nick Murray – Did not have a lot to do, given West Coast went inside 50 a mere 37 times, compared to Adelaide’s 65, but positioned himself well as part of a very sound Crows defensive structure.
29. Rory Laird – He was one of the stars of the night and seemingly everywhere for the Crows. He collected a game-high 32 disposals, kicked two goals and ran hard both ways, laying a match-best 10 tackles. Rarely has a quiet game.
32. Darcy Fogarty – It will not surprise if Fogarty kicks 50 goals this season, such is his form, confidence and ability. Kicked three first-quarter majors and showed his smarts in the second term by backing into intercept king Jeremy McGovern to create space, then keeping the ball in front of him to mark. Missed a sitter, for him, in the third quarter. Added another
goal in the last term to make it four. Was one of the best few players on the ground.
33. Brodie Smith – A typical Smith game – 464 metres gained (third-best on the ground), 22 disposals and started a heap of attacking chains from the back half.
34. Elliott Himmelberg – Chosen ahead of Riley Thilthorpe as Reilly O’Brien’s back-up and was solid with a few nice moments. Took a couple of nice marks, squandered two opportunities at goal (two behinds) and showed his mobility in the ruck by winning three clearances. Interesting battle between those two ahead of round 1.
37. Patrick Parnell – The Crows’ really like his kicking and decision-making, both of which he did well against the Eagles.
39. Tom Doedee – West Coast’s forwards rarely threatened, as the team found it difficult to get the ball to the wing from the backline, let alone its attacking 50. Doedee was a rock, making several key spoils.
41. Jordon Butts – There was no Jack Darling and Josh Kennedy was now retired, but Butts held firm in defence.
43. Reilly O’Brien – With no Nic Naitanui or Bailey Williams, O’Brien went up against nine-gamer Callum Jamieson – an ideal match-up to find some form. The Crows ruckman started very well but Adelaide ended up losing the clearances 37-33 despite dominating on the scoreboard. Will be a big surprise if he does not start the season in the AFL side but there does not seem to be much of a gap between him and the other Crows’ big men.
WESTERN BULLDOGS
- Sam Landsberger
1. ADAM TRELOAR. Left-foot snap goal from boundary early in the first quarter was beautiful. Unselfishly gave his captain a goal in the third quarter. Looked sharp and will increase midfield minutes this year with best mate Josh Dunkley up north.
2. JAMARRA UGLE-HAGAN. Grew up idolising Buddy Franklin, but fell in love with the way Jeremy Cameron played in 2022. Mercurial talent who looks primed to breakout … and leave egg on the faces of those who questioned his development in 2021-222.
3. CODY WEIGHTMAN. Late withdrawal with a sore adductor. Still appears likely to play in round 1, where his tackling and pressure will be a huge asset at the feet of the league’s longest forward line.
4. MARCUS BONTEMPELLI. Jonathan Brown called: “Bont for Brownlow! He’s looked sensational today” seconds before Bontempelli slotted the first goal of the second half. Dogs outscored North by 50 points from stoppages and Bont had 10 clearances. You could sense footy was back when a bunch of Roos supporters heckled ‘Bont’ relentlessly over the boundary line for being ‘smug’ in the first few minutes. Started pre-season early with the club’s youngsters and has not missed a single training session. Watchout.
6. BAILEY SMITH. Started the second centre bounce out of the goalsquare, but that was a rarity as Instagram’s most-liked footballer chalked up 30 disposals and five clearances. Won a game-high 18 contested possessions playing inside.
7. RORY LOBB. Only the one mark and one goal as he searches for synergy in his third AFL forward line. Unmissable wherever he runs.
9. HAYDEN CROZIER. Dislocated finger, which popped through the skin, ended his afternoon after 13 disposals dashing out of defence. Wonder whether it will be Crozier or Vandermeer for a place in the backline when the latter returns from a broken leg.
10. SAM DARCY. Towering mark in the third quarter was a scary glimpse at what this kid will become. Played forward (although that didn’t stop him tackling Cunnington in the centre square) but is the one tall target – ahead of Naughton, Ugle-Hagan and Lobb – who is likely to be swung behind the ball when match-ups require.
11. JACK MACRAE. Played as an outside midfielder and pumped the ball inside 50m nine times. Luke Beveridge once noted that Macrae often starts AFL seasons slowly however he still had 32 in the warm-up game.
13. OSKAR BAKER. Plan was to stay on the bench, but with injuries the Dogs were forced to bring him on as a forward … and he kicked the first goal of the game. Former Demon has nice wheels.
14. RHYLEE WEST. The son of a gun was surprisingly dropped for last year’s elimination final and only came into the extended team when Weightman withdrew, and on to the field in the second quarter. Booted a last-quarter goal but on pre-season selection appears to be behind Arthur Jones. Hopefully West gets a good crack at it this season after a trio of father-sons (Cordy, Hunter, Wallis) all left the club.
15. TAYLOR DURYEA. Walked out of Ikon Park with the doctor in the first quarter wearing a neck brace. Taken to hospital for precautionary neck scans, but they came back all-clear. Big relief because the on-field leader and shutdown defender might be the man to play on Kozzie Pickett in the season-opener.
16. TOBY McLEAN. After playing just four games since suffering his first ACL in 2020 it was simply heart-warming to see McLean fit in March. Played on the wing at times and won 16 disposals. Only one tackle on Saturday but when the real stuff starts expect his animal-like attack to fire up once again.
17. JOSH BRUCE. Back to where it all began at AFL level for Bruce, playing as a key defender. He came on earlier than anticipated and took an intercept mark in the first term. Promising signs, particularly with Zaine Cordy gone and Ryan Gardner injured.
19. LIAM JONES. Eyebrows were raised when Jones, 32, was handed a three-year contract. Admittedly, it is still zero games into that contract – but after one scratch match it looks a shrewd decision. Might be the missing piece for a backline that was scored against too easily last year. Closing speed and competitiveness are elite and nine intercept marks showed he was often impassable.
20. ED RICHARDS. Suffered a bad corkie to his left leg in the second quarter. That won’t hamper his round 1 chances.
21. TOM LIBERATORE. Kicked two goals – one from about 50m – to go with eight clearances, 33 disposals and seven tackles. This was vintage Libba in the summertime as he caught the Kangas kids an onball lesson. Started last season at half-forward but lock and load him in the centre square this year.
28. ANTHONY SCOTT. One of the summer success stories after sealing a spot on the wing. As Rohan Smith said, Scott has a super tank so he can get up and down the ground, he’s got speed and, as three first-half goals showed, he hits the scoreboard. Set to play round 1.
31. BAILEY DALE. Nobody on the field kicked it more than Dale (22) and we’ve seen the past two years what a weapon that is.
32. ARTHUR JONES. The kid with ties to football greats Jim and Phil Krakouer is a bolter, although it would be a surprise if he played round 1. The Dogs need speed, pressure and competitiveness at the feet of their talls and this kid brings that. Booted two goals.
33. AARON NAUGHTON. Hard to know what was more impressive – six tackles or 4.0? Naughton’s first combined both, coming after winning a holding the ball free kick. That would’ve pleased the coaches immensely. The sometimes-wonky spearhead didn’t miss on Saturday after slotting 51.34 last year. Can Naughton convert 70 from, say, 100 shots this year? That would put him in Coleman Medal territory.
34. BAILEY WILLIAMS. Utility who often lined up on the wing last year played a mostly outside game with 12 disposals. Not one for SuperCoach.
35. CALEB DANIEL. The helmet was back – Daniel didn’t don it in the intra-club – and he was mainly deployed on a halfback flank.
39. JASON JOHANNISEN. Pleasing to see him run out for Footscray after the AFL game as the Norm Smith winner builds fitness.
42. ALEX KEATH. Passed a concussion test and returned to the field in the third quarter. With Ryan Gardner injured and Zaine Cordy at St Kilda … phew.
44. TIM ENGLISH. Is this the 2023 All-Australian ruckman? Gave away a few free kicks but his tap work has improved out of sight and is effectively an extra midfielder.
NORTH MELBOURNE
- Sam Landsberger
2. JAIDYN STEPHENSON. Sat out the first half. Started the second with a shot on goal and finished with 1.1 from 10 touches. Alastair Clarkson will be the 2018 Rising Star winner’s fourth coach in as many years … will the penny drop?
3. HARRY SHEEZEL. The one-step snap after two teammates collided in the first quarter was very Luke Breust. But 10 disposals playing behind the ball in the fourth quarter has Roos thinking about reprogramming their teenage jet into a halfback, Nick Daicos-style.
7. JACK ZIEBELL. Started at halfback and mainly used the ball by foot. Important leadership alongside Luke McDonald in the back half.
8. BAILEY SCOTT. Played on the wing and had 10 disposals.
9. LUKE DAVIES-UNIACKE. Six clearances, three inside 50s and a goal for the kid who stormed to the finish line last season. Needs to roll that form into 2023.
10. BEN CUNNINGTON. Pleasure to watch the old warrior play. At 31 he had another nine clearances to show he will help lead the way for the glut of baby onballers.
11. LUKE McDONALD. Spent plenty of time on Jamarra Ugle-Hagan and the captaincy appears to be a snug fit for the fearless defender who racks up plenty of the ball. Reckon ‘Clarko’ would love this kid.
12. JY SIMPKIN. The other co-captain was North’s best player, leading the way with 31 disposals and four tackles. His handballs always seem to find a teammate and there’s a nice split between inside and outside possessions.
14. LIAM SHIELS. Premiership teammate Jordan Lewis said he was surprised the Hawks let Shiels go, and the Roos have loved the standards he has helped set. Spent some time on the wing and on McLean, and finished with 11 touches. Mids and wings are learning so much from Shiels.
16. AIDAN BONAR. Undersized defender who is on the fringe of selection.
19. GRIFFIN LOGUE. Former Fremantle swingman started on Aaron Naughton at full-back on what was an all-too-familiar difficult day for North’s defenders. But Logue put himself in good positions to mark the ball and will form a strong partnership with full-back Ben McKay.
20. NICK LARKEY. Snagged three goals from six kicks however so many of North’s straight entries were gobbled up by Bulldog backmen.
22. TODD GOLDSTEIN. The veteran had 19 hit-outs as the Roos played two genuine rucks alongside Xerri.
23. BEN McKAY. Difficult day playing against the land of the giants attack but McKay took an important step developing his one-two defensive combination with recruit Griffin Logue.
24. TOM POWELL. Never kicked two goals in an AFL match but slotted a pair in the last quarter. Got better as the game wore on and the Roos love the ball in Powell’s hands because he uses it so well, particularly forward of centre. Looked to have bulked up and is one Roo with a bright future.
25. PAUL CURTIS. Played as a pressure forward and finished with 1.2 with three score assists. Zero tackles on Saturday.
27. MILLER BERGMAN. Only came on in the final quarter, when he laid a couple of tackles and had five touches.
28. KAYNE TURNER. Small forward who spent some time on Bailey Dale and attended a few centre bounces, winning one takeaway.
29. WILL PHILLIPS. Won a nice centre clearance late in the last quarter to finish with four clearances for the match. Phillips, who missed all of 2022 with glandular fever, was still on a modified training program in November, so it’s a fair effort to put himself in contention for round 1. As Leigh Adams said: “We just can’t wait to get games into him and let the outside world see how good of a player we think he can be”.
30. CHARLIE COMBEN. The kid was badly beaten against an experienced defence and gave away five free kicks. Still, lots to like about the 199cm key forward.
31. JOSH GOATER. Rotated through the backline but turned the ball over a few times by foot. Another Roo who has talent but needs time.
38. TRISTAN XERRI. Won plenty of hit-outs but the Dogs’ onball brigade were dominant at stoppages. Looks like the Roos will back in the Xerri-Goldstein partnership.
39. FLYNN PEREZ. Nice tackle to bring down Adam Treloar was a nice moment for the young halfback who had 13 disposals and four rebound 50s.
44. CAMERON ZURHAAR. Sat out the second half with a tight calf after being held scoreless from eight disposals and no marks. Didn’t play as much centre bounce as last week, although that was due to Ben Cunnington and Jy Simpkin sitting out. Certain to be fit for round 1 and likely to play about a 70-30 split between forward-midfield.
MELBOURNE
- Chris Cavanagh
Steven May: Kept a rusty Tom Lynch on a tight rein, while offensively helped himself to 22 disposals, nine marks and more than 500 metres gained. Star!
Harrison Petty: Never gets a lot of the ball, but doesn’t need to. Solid as always in trying to quell the Tigers’ tall timber
Trent Rivers: Trying to lock in the spot that he temporarily lost last season during a dip in form. Had 19 disposals against the Tigers which should lock in round 1.
Charlie Spargo: Kicked the opening goal of the game to set the scene for the Demons and finished with another late in the game. Makes the most of his chances.
Jake Lever: Had a relatively easy day, particularly early when the Tigers were under siege. Turned in a solid defensive game with 12 touches and six marks.
Jedd McVee: Second-year rookie who looks to have plenty of upside after a strong preseason. Had limited impact on Saturday but the Demons like him and he will get his chance at some stage this season.
Lachie Hunter: He didn’t get the Group 1 victory he was hoping for with his horse Elliptical at Flemington, but the former Bulldog booked a round 1 spot on the wing against his old mob. Gathered 26 touches and slotted home a nice late goal. Could be a significant recruit in terms of their flag hopes.
Clayton Oliver: How good is this bloke? This was the perfect pipe-opener ahead of a Round 1 showdown with the Bulldogs with 31 touches and nine clearances. Had the second most metres gained on the field, with more than 600.
Ed Langdon: Was hard to pick up at times with his freshly shorn hair but the wingman was in the midst of the action throughout the game, with 22 touches.
Kade Chandler: Provided some spark for the Demons, kicking a goal and being amongst the action. Didn’t have a lot of the ball, but what did was good. He’s been a depth player throughout his AFL career so far but after a good preseason he’s given himself a chance to be more.
Kozzie Pickett: Looks ready to take his game to a new level with more midfield minutes. His work in attack was just as good, particularly a third quarter left foot goal that had Demons fans screaming “please sign a new deal soon’.
Alex Neal-Bullen: Almost criminally underrated outside the club, but highly rated internally. Kicked a steadying goal in the second term and had 22 touches in a good display
Tom McDonald: Was overshadowed early by the Gawn-Grundy show before working into the game with three of his own goals. The Demons didn’t lose a game with him in the side last year. They have to hope he stays sound in 2023.
James Harmes: Had a third term run-in with Trent Cotchin and was typically pugnacious in his approach to the contest. Spent plenty of time in the midfield mix.
Max Gawn: If anyone thought the recruiting Brodie Grundy was going to temper the influence of Max Gawn, you need to think again. Three first half goals and maximum impact in the ruck as well as down forward. Massive game.
Christian Petracca: Would have been a great advertisement for the ‘Slip Slop Slap’ campaign having caked his face in sunscreen. He needed it, for he was out there for 86 per cent of game time. Thirty-two disposals (21 handballs) and a goal made for a dominant afternoon.
Angus Brayshaw: The uncertainty around Christian Salem (thyroid) in the early part of the season means the versatile Brayshaw will predominantly play off half back. Went to a few centre bounces, but based more in defence with 21 touches.
Brodie Grundy: Get excited Demons fans; look away Pies fans. On the early evidence, ‘Gawndy’ could be a game changer. Was meant to be on reduced minutes (69 per cent game time), but still contributed three goals and some contested marks. Is ready and raring to go to take on Tim English in R1.
Bailey Laurie: ‘Bill’, as they call him, had six disposals in limited game time, but got some good exposure in what was a relatively hot contest.
Jake Bowey: Another Demon with a point to prove after being overlooked in the finals. He was good across half back with 19 disposals.
Tom Sparrow: Pencil in some extra midfield time for Sparrow as the Demons look to have a revolving midfield throughout the season. He got plenty of exposure against the Tigers, having 18 disposals and kicking a goal.
Taj Woewodin: Came on in the final term and helped to set up one of the Demons’ steadying goals. Still a work in progress, but some great experience gained.
Ben Brown: Who was that bloke with the shaved head? At least we recognised the No. 50. Took a while to get going as the Gawn-Grundy-McDonald show took all the attention down forward, but managed to get a goal late to end up with 10 disposals.
RICHMOND
- Chris Cavanagh
Dylan Grimes: Had plenty of work early as the Demons’ first half onslaught put the Richmond defence under duress. Played almost 70 per cent of the game and will be fit and ready to go to take on the Dogs’ tall timber in Round 1.
Noah Balta: Took up a key defensive role in the game as the defence tried to deal with the Demons’ tall brigade. Snuck forward late to roost home a 60m goal.
Tylar Young: Mature-age defensive rookie who had his hands full deep in the back half.
Liam Baker: They build them bloody tough in Lake Grace! Just two weeks after having appendicitis surgery, Baker was back to his brilliant best, having a game-high 36 touches and having 660 metres gained.
Nick Vlastuin: Typically solid game from this defensive creative playmaker. Just don’t ask Ivan Soldo what he thought … an errant Vlastuin kick landed in his face with a painful falcon.
Daniel Rioli: Twenty six disposals, almost 400 metres gained and a brilliant goal running through half forward. Has taken his game in defence to a new level in the space of 12 months. Such a critical player now.
Kamdyn McIntosh: Had 11 touches on the wing but the Dees wingers seemed to hold sway for much of the day.
Dion Prestia: Richmond fans, cross your fingers and toes. He sat out the last three quarters of this match after suffering a pectoral issue. Scans this week will determine if he is fit to take on Carlton in round 1.
Judson Clarke: Not a bad performance from this youngster who is doing his best to push his case for early matches this season after getting a taste last year. Had 14.
Trent Cotchin: Had a run-in wrestle with James Harmes, which cost him a free kick. Played much of the early part of the game in attack, but looked better when he returned later in the midfield. Gifted Tim Taranto with a nice goal.
Shai Bolton: Solid performance with a few nice highlights after missing last week’s game for personal reasons. He will be primed for round 1, and it will come with more midfield exposure.
Dustin Martin: Played exclusively in attack, kicking a goal and having 16 touches. Assistant coach Andrew McQualter was only half-joking when he said Dusty picks where he wants to play, with certain parameters. Looks like it will be more forward this year than midfield.
Jack Riewoldt: Kicked a goal but only had five disposals. He’ll be ready for when the real stuff starts on Thursday week.
Noah Cumberland: Has a goal run-up approaching Ben Brown’s run-up, but looks as if he will play a lot more this season. Nine games for 19 goals last season.
Tom Lynch: He’d be the first to admit he was a bit rusty, but who cares … he was out there. That was the purpose of Saturday as he is coming back from a foot injury that threatened to keep him out of round 1. He’ll take on the Blues now. Was beaten by Steven May, but still managed to kick a goal and took six marks before being rested in the final term.
Toby Nankervis: Had his hands full initially with Gawn and Grundy, before finishing with 10 disposals and 24 hitouts. He’ll be ready for Tom De Koning and/or Marc Pittonet in round 1.
Tim Taranto: Was busy all day in a midfield that had its colours lowered to the Demons. Had 33 touches, eight marks and five clearances. Looks good in yellow and black and could be in for a big year.
Jacob Hopper: Had nine clearances so he was busy getting his hands dirty. Had 26 touches.
Ivan Soldo: Tried to give Nank a chop out in the ruck at times. Will be nursing a sore head after copping a painful falcon.
Nathan Broad: Back from a hamstring injury and seemed to get through Ok with 16 touches.
Jayden Short: Had 15 disposals and kicked a goal for the Tigers.
Maurice Rioli Jr: Gave plenty of chase in attack, but could only manage six tackles and one crunching tackle
Thomson Dow: Liked the look of him, kicking a goal and having 15 touches. Looks ready to make a bigger mark in his fourth year at the club.
Steely Green: Got some really good exposure at the top level and will benefit from it.
Samson Ryan: Big effort to play three quarters in the VFL game before emerging in the final term of the AFL game to make an impact. Kicked a goal and could have had two or three, and looked lively.
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