AFL 2022 AAMI Series scouting report: All the latest from every club
There is no pre-season trophy any more but we’ve crunched the numbers to see which clubs are flying and who needs to improve for Round 1. Plus latest pre-season news, stats.
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Who won the 2022 pre-season?
There is no trophy or grand final any more (RIP Wizard Cup) and there is a danger in reading too much into practice matches, but most coaches would rather go into the season in winning form.
On that score, you can’t beat the Dockers, who scored two wins against an injury-depleted West Coast including one 97-point thumping.
SCROLL DOWN FOR THE LATEST PRE-SEASON NEWS AND KEY STATS AT EVERY CLUB
Brisbane is primed for another top-four finish but the big surprises of the pre-season were Gold Coast – which registered two wins against 2021 preliminary finalists Geelong and Port Adelaide – and Carlton, which will face another unbeaten pre-season team in Richmond at the MCG in Round 1.
At the other end of the pre-season ladder, the Western Bulldogs failed to register a win, although losses to Essendon and the Lions were by a combined 12 points, while Chris Scott will be hoping a different Geelong outfit runs out next week after coming up short against the Suns and Tigers.
Although it should be noted the Richmond result was one of several pre-season matches played over six “quarters” with most players on the list getting a run. So take these results with a grain of salt!
Who are the players who still need to prove their fitness? And who will get more midfield time?
See the latest on your club, plus all the key stats from the pre-season.
ADELAIDE
ROUND ONE CHANCES
Josh Rachele has to be locked in for a Round 1 spot and is quickly becoming a fan favourite for the Crows.
After three more goals against Port Adelaide the No. 6 pick has six goals from two games this pre-season as the hype continues to grow.
Against the Power he showed he wasn’t just a goal machine, laying a game-high nine tackles as well as having 12 disposals.
Fellow 2021 draftee Jake Soligo is still in the mix for a Round 1 spot, looking comfortable against the Power.
Lachlan Gollant made his debut in Round 23 and kicked a goal against the Power to put his name forward for another AFL game, especially with the Crows still working on how to fill the Taylor Walker-shaped hole in their attack.
WELCOME BACK
Matt Crouch got through the game and led the Crows on the disposal count with 31 despite being on limited minutes.
Matthew Nicks was pleased with how the former All-Australian fared, and while he had no tackles against the Power expect that number to improve as he continues to work his way back.
Mitch Hinge only featured off the bench as the medical sub in 2021 but showed he had plenty of guts in Round 1 against Geelong, dislocating his shoulder on multiple occasions.
The former Brisbane Lion should feature a lot more for the Crows in 2022 and he impressed against the Power.
After Crows hearts were in their mouths when Hinge looked to be in some distress over the shoulder he hurt in 2021 but he was able to return to the ground and finished with 12 disposals, a goal and three tackles.
Playing mainly off a wing, Hinge offers some versatility and height the Crows need.
WHO’S HOT
Reilly O’Brien didn’t have the year he or the Crows fans expected in 2021.
But the Crows big man looks to be back to his best and was dominant in the ruck against the Power.
He also had 15 disposals, six marks, four tackles and a goal against the Power and looks primed for a big 2022.
Just how much time Rory Sloane plays in the midfield will be seen but the Crows captain turned back the clock against the Power.
After missing the practice match against Brisbane Sloane led the way for the Crows in the engine room with 28 disposals and three tackles.
KEY STATS
Centre Bounce Attendances - Matt Crouch (22), Rory Sloane (20), Ben Keays (15), Sam Berry (14), Harry Schoenberg (13), Rory Laird (12)
Kick-ins - Brodie Smith (2), Chayce Jones (2), Andrew McPherson (2), Luke Brown (1), Ben Davis (1)
INJURY ROOM
Reigning club champion Rory Laird broke his hand in the loss and the Crows are hopeful he will avoid surgery, but he is expected to miss 4-6 weeks.
Gun recruit Jordan Dawson missed the match with calf soreness but is on track for Round 1.
Shane McAdam was out with abductor soreness but also should be in the mix for Round 1.
Wayne Milera played in the SANFL game earlier on in the day and is considered a strong chance for the season opener if everything continues to track well.
Lachlan Murphy has returned to training following surgery on his neck while a time frame for Paul Seedsman recovery is unknown as he deals with concussion issues.
ONE MORE THING
Could the Crows go with a four-man tall forward line to try and replace Walker.
The absence of the former captain as he serves the final three games of his racial vilification ban is going to hurt the Crows and Nicks went with four talls against the Power – Riley Thilthorpe, Darcy Fogarty, Elliott Himmelberg and Gollant.
All had their moments and gave Nicks something to think about ahead of Round 1.
BRISBANE
ROUND 1 CHANCES
After being traded to the Lions at the end of last year seeking more opportunities, former Geelong ruckman Darcy Fort showed he could combine well with frontline ruckman Oscar McInerney. Fort, who has played eight games in the past two years, had 12 disposals and 22 hitouts against the Western Bulldogs. Lions coach Chris Fagan was pleased with the way he combined with McInerney and said he would be an important inclusion for the team, especially with key forward Eric Hipwood set to miss a large chunk of the season with an ACL injury. “We are hopeful they can form a good combination. They are still pretty handy up forward as well, they can bring the ball to ground and they can mark it as well,” Fagan said.
“I think we will keep going with that. A couple of reasons we got Darcy Fort was to help us out because Eric was going to be absent for a while but also because our other ruckmen on our list are young blokes and they are not ready to play yet.
“So we needed a guy like Darcy Fort who can not only form a partnership with Oscar but he can actually take Oscar’s place and can play in the AFL team in his own right if we need him to. We think he’s been a good recruit.”
WELCOME BACK
He has not played an AFL game since Round 17, 2020, but Noah Answerth will prove a handy addition to the Lions’ backline. Fagan said Answerth, who missed all of last season with a groin injury, had worked hard to get his body strong again and was like a “recruit” for the team this season. “He is such a good competitor and I think his last game was against the Sydney Swans in Cairns in 2020,” Fagan said. “So he didn’t play in the AFL team at all last year due to a groin complaint and he has worked really hard to get his body strong again. He has had a fantastic pre-season and he played well last week and contributed strongly again (against the Bulldogs) so we are happy to have him back, he’s like a recruit for us.” Answerth had 10 disposals, three marks and three tackles against the Dogs.
WHO WAS HOT
After an injury interrupted year last season, 2020 Brownlow medallist Lachie Neale showed his preparations for the season were on track with 30 disposals and one goal. Neale was restricted to 17 matches last season after a series of injury set-backs. Charlie Cameron (20 disposals and two goals) was dangerous in attack, while Daniel McStay (2.3) could have finished with a bigger bag.
KEY STATS
Centre Bounce Attendances - Lachie Neale (23), Zac Bailey (16), Hugh McCluggage (14), Jarrod Berry (11), Jarryd Lyons (8), Dylan Robertson (5), Nakia Cockatoo (1)
Kick-ins - Daniel Rich (5), Brandon Starcevich (4), Keidan Coleman (1), Harris Andrews (1), Marcus Adams (1), Jack Payne (1)
INJURY WARD
The Lions’ six-point win over the Bulldogs came at a cost with hamstring injuries to Keidean Coleman and Deven Robertson, while James Madden (ankle) was also hurt. But the Lions expect Cam Rayner (family), Darcy Gardiner (quad) and captain Dayne Zorko (health and safety protocols) to all be back for the opening round.
ONE MORE THING
The Lions haven’t been dwelling over the summer after a third year of finals heartache last season. “We have played in finals for the last three years and you have regrets - and they all would have,” Fagan said. “There’s three things you can choose to do about regrets: you can ignore them – that’s not a good idea; or you can get over-emotional about them – not a good idea; or you can learn from them, and that’s the approach that we’ve always taken and we won’t veer away from that.”
ROUND 1: Brisbane Lions v Port Adelaide, Gabba, Saturday March 19
CARLTON
ROUND 1 CHANCES
Recruits Adam Cerra and George Hewett have slotted comfortably into the Carlton line-up after joining the club in the off-season. Former Docker Cerra had 30 disposals (11 of which were contested), four clearances, four inside-50s and seven score involvements against Melbourne to look at home right away in the Blues’ midfield. Former Swan Hewett had 33 disposals, seven clearances, six inside-50s and nine score involvements as he and Cerra linked impressively with Cripps and Matthew Kennedy (37 disposals). The pair have added immediate depth and strength to the Blues’ midfield, which is without Sam Walsh as he recovers from an ankle syndesmosis injury.
WELCOME BACK
He might not have played in the main production against Melbourne, but former captain Sam Docherty’s return in the VFL was welcome news for everyone at the club. Docherty took a big step towards an inspirational return to Carlton’s senior line-up after impressing with 38 disposals in the Blues’ VFL game last Thursday. The defender was diagnosed with a second bout of testicular cancer in August last year and was forced to undergo another 12-week round of chemotherapy. Coach Michael Voss did not rule out what would be a stunning Round 1 selection against Richmond for the 28-year-old. “The first time I turned up (to the club) he was pretty determined to ensure that he was going to figure early in the season and he’s done everything possible to be able to put himself in that position,” Voss said.
WHO WAS HOT
Carlton captain Patrick Cripps was a standout for the Blues against Melbourne with 31 disposals - 13 of which were contested - 10 clearances, eight tackles and four goals. After two years of dealing with injuries, the midfield gun’s performance prompted a pre-season warning from Voss. “He’s moving very well, he’s dynamic and going to prove a real threat to the opposition,” Voss said after the Blues’ win.
KEY STATS
Centre Bounce Attendances - Patrick Cripps (26), George Hewett (24), Adam Cerra (19), Matt Kennedy (17), Zac Fisher (4)
Kick-ins - Nic Newman (3), Zac Williams (3), Mitch McGovern (2), Adam Saad (1)
INJURY WARD
Jack Silvagni (shoulder) and small forward Corey Durdin (calf) failed to finish the game, but both are expected to be available for Round 1 after scans cleared them of any concerns. Charlie Curnow and Jacob Weitering, who were both rested but are also expected to be fit to take on the Tigers in the opening round. Brodie Kemp (calf tightness) is also expected to be available for selection. Harry McKay only played the first half as part of the club’s management plan with the key forward.
ONE MORE THING
Mitch McGovern has struggled to make an impact since arriving at the Blues due to a string of injury set-backs but a defensive role has the Blues buoyant about what the inconsistent forward can bring to the team this year. Voss was impressed with McGovern’s performance as an intercept defender, stepping in to fill the void of the retired Liam Jones.
“He just sees the game really well from behind the ball,” Voss said.
“He’s taken on that role, he’s really embraced that role, he definitely wants to play there and play an important role within our team.”
ROUND 1: Carlton v Richmond, MCG, Thursday March 17.
COLLINGWOOD
ROUND 1 CHANCES
Last year’s No.4 draft pick Nick Daicos is more of a Round 1 lock than a chance.
Remarkably, he was again one of the Magpies’ best in their pre-season clash with GWS, racking up a team-high 31 disposals.
WELCOME BACK
Jordan De Goey was back in the fold for the Magpies’ final pre-season hitout after being sidelined with a rib injury in previous weeks.
The forward-midfielder was solid with 17 disposals and also kicked a goal.
WHO’S HOT
The Daicos brothers – Josh and Nick – were both standouts for the Pies and will provide plenty of excitement for supporters this year.
Captain Scott Pendlebury is settling in to his new role in defence, while Jack Crisp is relishing some more midfield time.
KEY STATS
Centre Bounce Attendances - Jack Crisp (16), Jordan De Goey (15), Tyler Brown (12), Jamie Elliott (10), Nick Daicos (9), Scott Pendlebury (6), Callum Brown (6), Pat Lipinski (4), Finlay Macrae (3)
Kick-ins - Darcy Moore (5), Scott Pendlebury (2), Brayden Maynard (1), John Noble (1)
INJURY ROOM
Former Bulldog Patrick Lipinski (ankle) had been firmly in the Round 1 frame before hurting himself against the Giants, while fellow recruit Nathan Kreuger was concussed.
Key defenders Jordan Roughead (shoulder) and Charlie Dean (foot) will miss the start of the season, but fellow backman Jeremy Howe (groin) and midfielder Taylor Adams (hamstring) are on track to feature in the season-opener.
Brody Mihocek also missed the last pre-season game will illness, but is expected to be ready to go.
ONE MORE THING
Mason Cox was brilliant in the first practice game against Hawthorn, but struggled to have much impact against the Giants.
ROUND 1: St Kilda v Collingwood, Marvel Stadium,Friday March 18
ESSENDON
ROUND 1 CHANCES
After officially signing on as a Bomber late last month, summer rookie Nick Martin pushed his name forward for a Round 1 debut against Geelong. Martin entered the game against St Kilda in the second half and finished with 16 disposals. Last year’s summer rookie Kaine Baldwin, who had 10 disposals and one goal, also pushed his case to take on the Cats.
WELCOME BACK
Half-back Nick Hind missed last year’s elimination final against the Western Bulldogs after a visit to the supermarket to grab a roast chicken ended up in him being unable to travel to Tasmania due to being at an exposure site. But he was back against the Saints, amassing 19 disposals.
WHO WAS HOT
After his breakout season last year, midfielder Darcy Parish has picked up where he left off to lead the Bombers’ with a 25-disposal performance. Parish, 24, finished second in the Bombers’ best and fairest last year. Peter Wright top-scored for the Bombers with three majors.
KEY STATS
Centre Bounce Attendances - Darcy Parish (19), Will Snelling (12), Jye Caldwell (12), Zach Merrett (11), Andrew McGrath (9), Archie Perkins (5), Nik Cox (4)
Kick ins - Jordan Ridley (5), Tom Cutler (2), Nick Hind (2)
INJURY WARD
Jake Stringer (groin), Aaron Francis (corked leg) and Dylan Shiel (managed) are expected to be available for Round 1 after missing the match against St Kilda. The Bombers said there was no issue surrounding Zach Merrett’s fitness after the 2021 club best and fairest sat out the second half. Livewire small forward Anthony McDonald-Tipungwuti is back training after having time off for personal reasons but the Bombers said he would need time to work his way back to match fitness.
ONE MORE THING …
After 21 games in his debut AFL season last year, top-10 draft pick Archie Perkins reiterated what an exciting young prospect he is with two goals and 17 disposals.
ROUND 1: Essendon v Geelong, MCG, Saturday, March 19
FREMANTLE
ROUND 1 CHANCES
Again no draftees were blooded by the Dockers but two of their recruits via the trade have all but locked in Round 1 spots.
Former Gold Coast Sun Will Brodie had 23 touches and eight tackles in an inside midfield role while ex-Geelong speedster Jordan Clark has added plenty of dash to the Dockers.
Heath Chapman put in another good showing to all but lock in a Round 1 spot with 23 disposals.
WELCOME BACK
Star Docker Michael Walters had a quiet year by his standards as he played mostly forward in 2021.
Against West Coast he again started forward, but had centre rotations, and kicked two goals to go with 16 touches.
He was big in the final term to help Fremantle claim the win over its fierce rivals.
WHO’S HOT
Andrew Brayshaw looks ready to go to another level for the Dockers this year.
Teammates have said he has gotten even stronger and the inside bull finished with 30 disposals and five tackles.
Luke Ryan had 13 marks and 24 disposals to show why he is so important to the Dockers defence.
KEY STATS
Centre Bounce Attendances - Mitch Crowden (22), Andrew Brayshaw (15), Caleb Serong (15), Will Brodie (13), David Mundy (10)
Kick-ins - Luke Ryan (4), Brennan Cox (1), Nathan Wilson (1)
INJURY ROOM
Rory Lobb and Nathan Wilson did not finish the match against the Eagles.
Lobb collided with big man Sean Darcy while Wilson went head-on into Alex Witherden’s leg and clutched his right shoulder before heading into the rooms.
Nat Fyfe (shoulder) and Darcy Tucker (hamstring) are the only players missing from Fremantle’s best side.
ONE MORE THING
He was inaccurate against the Eagles but Michael Frederick will tear a game apart this year.
The exciting forward kicked 1.4 and had eight disposals and seven marks.
He looms as an excitement machine for the Dockers this year.
GEELONG
ROUND 1 CHANCES
Sam De Koning only played one AFL game in his debut season last year but was impressive in one of the Cats’ key defensive posts on Monday night and should have done enough to earn himself a spot in the Round 1 side even after Tom Stewart returns.
De Koning logged 19 disposals and five marks in his side’s loss to the Suns.
Cooper Stephens, a first-round draft pick in 2019, was also good with 15 disposals and shapes as a strong chance to make his AFL debut.
WELCOME BACK
Former Adelaide small forward Tyson Stengle did not have quite as big a game in his second outing for the Cats, managing just 10 disposals and one goal after booting four majors in a scratch match against Richmond a week earlier.
WHO’S HOT
Midfielder Cam Guthrie was the best of the Cats with 32 disposals and a goal against the Suns.
Defender Tom Atkins (25 disposals) and key forward Jeremy Cameron (16 disposals, three goals) also shone brightly.
KEY STATS
Centre bounce attendances - Cam Guthrie (16), Patrick Dangerfield (14), Quinton Narkle (13), Brandan Parfitt (12), Max Holmes (10), Joel Selwood (8), Cooper Stephens (7), Shaun Higgins (1)
Kick-ins - Zach Tuohy (7), Isaac Smith (4), Cam Guthrie (2) Jake Kolodjashnij (2), Zac Guthrie (2)
INJURY ROOM
Jed Bews copped a head knock early against the Suns, with concussion protocols likely to rule him out of Geelong’s season opener.
Stewart missed the match for family reasons but is expected to be back in Round 1, while the availability of Jack Henry (foot), Mitch Duncan (calf), Jonathon Ceglar (knee) and Sam Menagola (knee) is still up in the air.
Gary Rohan (knee) and Gryan Miers (ankle) are both expected to miss the start of the season.
ONE MORE THING...
Pre-season results don’t mean much, but the Cats wouldn’t have been thrilled by what should have been a far bigger loss against an inaccurate Suns side who kicked 13.17 (95) to 11.6 (72).
GOLD COAST
ROUND 1 CHANCES
Second-year player Alex Davies has 11 disposals and recorded six tackles to push his case for another senior game after featuring in only one match in his debut season last year.
WELCOME BACK
Key defender Rory Thompson returned from back-to-back knee injuries which have seen him not feature at AFL level since Round 19, 2018.
Captain Jarrod Witts also returned from an ACL injury that saw him miss most of the 2021 season.
WHO’S HOT
Touk Miller continues to consistently deliver for the Suns, logging 32 disposals, nine tackles and two goals in the win over Geelong.
Former No.1 draft pick Matt Rowell was also a standout with 27 disposals and seven tackles, coming off an injury-interrupted second season last year.
KEY STATS
Centre Bounce Attendances - Matt Rowell (24) Touk Miller (22), Noah Anderson (16), Brayden Fiorini (9), Izak Rankine (4), Alex Davies (4), Sam Flanders (1), Darcy Macpherson (1)
Kick-ins - Lachie Weller (4), Will Powell (1), Sean lemmens (1)
INJURY ROOM
Richmond recruit Mabior Chol came off at halftime and iced his hamstring, but the Suns said it was only precautionary.
Jeremy Sharp (hamstring) is still a chance for Round 1.
Jack Bowes (shoulder) and Ben King (knee) are the Suns’ long-term injuries.
ONE MORE THING...
Defender-turned-forward Jack Lukosius looked good with three goals in a new-look attack that is missing Ben King (knee) this season.
GWS GIANTS
ROUND 1 CHANCES
The Giants are still experimenting with their forward line mix, but West Coast recruit Jarrod Brander is right in the frame to feature in Round 1 despite a quieter outing against Collingwood.
WELCOME BACK
Ruckman Braydon Preuss has not played at AFL level since Round 16, 2020 due to a series of injuries and form, but was back on the pack against Collingwood and had 12 disposals six marks and 14 hitouts sharing ruck duties with Matt Flynn.
WHO’S HOT
Josh Kelly was on fire against the Magpies with a whopping 41 disposals, setting the scene for a bumper year.
However, all the talk has been about Stephen Coniglio, who is fit and firing again and had another 27 disposals in the pre-season game after ankle issues ruined his 2021 campaign.
KEY STATS
Centre Bounce Attendances - Jacob Hopper (17), Tom Green (16), Stephen Coniglio (15), Josh Kelly (13), Tanner Bruhn (12), Tim Taranto (6), Lachie Ash (1), Bobby Hill (1)
Kick-ins - Isaac Cumming (6), Lachie Whitfield (2), Harry Perryman (2)
INJURY ROOM
The Giants picked up a couple of fresh injuries against Collingwood with Daniel Lloyd (concussion) and Conor Stone (hamstring).
Jesse Hogan (soreness) was sidelined but the Giants are hopeful he will still play in Round 1.
Nick Haynes (illness) and Adam Kennedy played in the VFL practice match on Sunday, while Matt de Boer and Cooper Hamilton missed against the Magpies due to Covid-19 protocols.
Toby Greene is suspended for the first five rounds of the season, while Brent Daniels (foot), Jack Buckley (knee) and Zach Sproule (shoulder) are all long-term injuries.
ONE MORE THING...
Bobby Hill looks like being the man to fill the small forward void without Brent Daniels and Toby Greene at the start of the year and impressed with three goals against Collingwood.
ROUND 1: GWS v Sydney, Stadium Australia, Saturday March 19
HAWTHORN
ROUND 1 CHANCES
Sam Mitchell wouldn’t confirm it but Josh Ward is odds-on to be in the Hawks Round 1 side after a sensational game against Richmond.
The No. 7 pick was the Hawks best player against the Tigers with 29 disposals, four marks and six clearances in a performance belaying his young age.
Ward has already shown why has was labelled as one of the more ready-made players of the draft.
Fellow first rounder Connor Macdonald is also right in the mix for a Round 1 debut after 16 disposals, two marks and a goal.
WELCOME BACK
James Sicily is going to be a busy man for the Hawks this year.
But the gun interceptor showed again that he is up for it as he returns from an ACL injury.
Sicily had five marks to go along with 17 disposals as he marshalled the Hawks defence.
With Hawthorn in a rebuild, he will be a key pillar for Mitchell this season.
WHO’S HOT
Tom Phillips (22 disposals), Connor Nash (24) and James Worpel (23) all impressed going through the Hawks midfield that was missing a few big names.
Chad Wingard was rusty but showed how damaging he can be with some flashes as he rotated between the midfield and forward line.
KEY STATS
Centre Bounce Attendances - Jai Newcombe (21), James Worpel (18), Josh Ward (17), Connor Nash (14), Finn Maginness (4), Chad Wingard (2), Ned Long (2)
Kick-ins - Blake Hardwick (5), Jack Scrimshaw (3), James Sicily (2)
INJURY ROOM
The Hawks were without their two midfield stars in Tom Mitchell and Jaeger O’Meara who were both being managed.
O’Meara has minor hamstring tightness and while the club initially said Mitchell was just being rested it was later revealed he’s having some groin soreness.
Mitchell is considered as “probably” available for Round 1 while O’Meara should also be on track.
When Will Day returns from his ankle injury is unknown.
Liam Shiels didn’t finish the game because of an upset stomach.
ONE MORE THING
Ned Reeves got the first crack at Hawthorn’s No. 1 ruck but the Hawks looked a lot better when Max Lynch went up against Richmond’s big men.
The ex-Collingwood player was tipped to be the No. 1 ruck with Ben McEvoy rotating through forward and defence but Reeves has been the first option so far for the Hawks.
This might change with Lynch’s deployment in the ruck late on in the match correlating with an improved Hawks.
MELBOURNE
ROUND 1 CHANCES
With injuries to two of Melbourne’s premiership defenders, The door has opened for two of last year’s hard-luck stories to return. Adam Tomlinson (21 disposals), who missed the Demons finals campaign after injuring his anterior cruciate ligament in Round 7, will be the frontrunner for Petty’s position, while Jayden Hunt (13 disposals) should regain his spot in Rivers’ absence. Hunt played every game up until Round 21 last year before suffering an untimely ankle injury and was unable to force his way back into the side after he recovered.
WHO WAS HOT
The usual suspects led the charge for the Demons in the midfield with Clayton Oliver (28 disposals, seven clearances), Christian Petracca (27 disposals) and captain Max Gawn (23 disposals and 28 hitouts) standing out, while forward Bayley Fritsch kicked five goals.
KEY STATS
Centre Bounce Attendances - Clayton Oliver (28), Christian Petracca (25), Jack Viney (20), Tom Sparrow (11), Alex Neal-Bullen (3), James Harmes (2), Kysaiah Pickett (1)
Kick-ins - Adam Tomlinson (3), Jake Bowey (2), Jayden Hunt (2)
INJURY WARD
Premiership defenders Steven May, Michael Hibberd and Christian Salem were rested from the match against Carlton but are all expected to return for the Grand Final rematch against the Western Bulldogs. Petty (calf) and Trent Rivers (knee). Key backman Harrison Petty (calf) is not expected to line-up for Round 1, while Trent Rivers (knee) is also in doubt
ONE MORE THING …
Discipline will be a buzz word for the Demons in the lead-up to the Grand Final rematch after giving away a costly eight 50m penalties against Carlton as they adjusted to stricter umpire interpretations.
ROUND 1: Melbourne v Western Bulldogs, MCG, Wednesday March 16.
NORTH MELBOURNE
ROUND 1 CHANCES
Lock in No.1 draft pick Jason Horne-Francis to make his AFL debut, after he again shone with 16 disposals and two goals.
Fellow draftee Josh Goater played in an extended squad against Sydney but only had four disposals.
WELCOME BACK
Jarrod Polec had fallen out of favour at the Kangaroos, but has had a bumper pre-season which has put him right in the frame to play a significant role this season.
Polec had 20 disposals on a wing against Sydney, after also playing some good football against Melbourne the week before.
WHO’S HOT
The No.4 draft pick in 2017, Luke Davies-Uniacke has not quite lived up to expectations just yet.
However, the 22-year-old has had a big pre-season and has played some very good footy in the two pre-season games, logging 22 disposals and seven tackles against Sydney.
Tarryn Thomas has also generated plenty of excitement over the summer in an increased midfield role.
KEY STATS
Centre Bounce Attendances - Jy Simpkin (15), Luke Davies-Uniacke (15), Tarryn Thomas (13), Hugh Greenwood (11), Jason Horne-Francis (8), Tom Powell (4), Charlie Lazzaro (3)
Kick-ins - Jack Ziebell (6), Luke McDonald (3), Aidan Corr (1)
INJURY ROOM
Veteran midfielder Ben Cunnington is the key player still on the injury list as he continues his cancer battle and remains some time away.
Recruit Callum Coleman-Jones missed the clash with the Swans with what the Kangaroos say is a “minor” knee complaint, while defender Ben McKay missed under concussion protocols and Aaron Hall has been missing in action with a hamstring.
ONE MORE THING...
Hugh Greenwood looks like being a handy pick-up for the Kangaroos, with the former Gold Coast Suns midfielder a bigger body and some grunt among a largely young onball brigade.
ROUND 1: Hawthorn v North Melbourne, MCG, Sunday March 20
RICHMOND
ROUND 1 CHANCES
The Tigers’ No. 9 draft pick Josh Gibcus is well on track to feature against Carlton after another solid outing in defence.
With Noah Balta now in the forward line, kicking three goals against Hawthorn, Gibcus played alongside Robbie Tarrant and captain Dylan Grimes in the first-choice Tigers defence and didn’t look out of place.
The 196cm defender looks to have locked in a spot in the back six to take on the Blues.
Bigoa Nyuon came on in the second quarter and had some good moments in a defensive role.
Tarrant moved across from North Melbourne and has slotted in nicely.
WELCOME BACK
While he didn’t lay a tackle on the day, Dustin Martin again impressed as he returns from a serious kidney injury.
The Tigers superstar finished with 26 disposals, four clearances and three marks as he ramped up his comeback.
Along with skipper Trent Cotchin, Martin controlled the engine room for the Tigers.
Tigers assistant coach Adam Kingsley said he expected the superstar to play through the midfield and little bit forward in 2022.
WHO’S HOT
Cotchin, 26 disposals and five tackles, was in fine form in the middle against the Hawks.
Jayden Short, 31 disposals and eight marks, was prolific off half-back as was Liam Baker, 26 disposals and two goals, as a half forward.
Balta kicked three goals to go with 19 touches and eight marks to sew up a spot as the Tigers third forward as Richmond looks to go tall this year.
KEY STATS
Centre Bounce Attendances - Dion Prestia (18), Trent Cotchin (16), Dustin Martin (16), Jake Aarts (10), Will Martyn (6), Shai Bolton (5), Jack Ross (4), Liam Baker (3)
Kick-ins - Jayden Short (9), Nathan Broad (2), Dan Rioli (1), Dylan Grimes (1), Josh Gibcus (1), Hugo Ralphsmith (1)
INJURY ROOM
Dylan Grimes is in doubt after undergoing surgery on his thumb after injuring it in the second quarter against the Hawks.
Dion Prestia and Ivan Soldo also limped off against the Hawks but in a positive sign for the Tigers returned to action.
Nick Vlastuin and Jack Graham missed with hamstring injuries but should be either right or in the mix for Round 1.
A return date for Kane Lambert is unknown as he deals with a long term chronic hip issue.
Rilley Collier-Dawkins (ribs) and Matt Parker (ankle) are back available for selection while draftee Sam Banks is still a couple of weeks away.
ONE MORE THING
Hugo Ralphsmith looks like he has found a consistent role in the Richmond 22.
The 20-year-old played six games last year and has impressed in a new half back role in pre-season, amassing 20 disposals and 10 marks against the Hawks.
PORT ADELAIDE
ROUND 1 CHANCES
Top draftee Josh Sinn only got a half against Adelaide, finishing with eight disposals and three marks.
Given he has not played all that much footy over the past two years because of the Covid-19 pandemic the Power might be cautious with the No. 12 draftee.
Father-son Jackson Mead got more game time and finished with eight disposals, two marks and two tackles.
A potential bolder could be Jed McEntee.
The mid-season draftee came on as the medical sub against St Kilda in Round 18 and has impressed in the Power’s two pre-season matches.
Against the Crows he kicked a goal and had 13 touches.
Lachie Jones looks to have cemented a spot in the Power defence for Round 1 after another solid game at half-back.
WELCOME BACK
Mitch Georgiades missed Port’s finals campaign and showed why he is so highly rated at the Power and around the league with four goals against the Crows.
With Charlie Dixon shouldering much of the load for the Power over the past two years, they need players such as the high-flying Georgiades to step up to go to the next level.
He looks set to rise to the challenge.
WHO’S HOT
Reigning Brownlow Medallist Ollie Wines finished with 37 disposals and eight clearances but it is Zak Butters that is stealing the show for the Power this pre-season.
After being a rare bright spot against Gold Coast, Butters backed it up with 32 disposals and a goal against the Crows.
Connor Rozee was electrifying as a half forward with 23 disposals and two goals, while Darcy Byrne-Jones looked back to his 2021 form that saw him named as an All-Australian with 24 disposals and seven tackles.
KEY STATS
Centre Bounce Attendances - Ollie Wines (22), Willem Drew (19), Travis Boak (17), Zak Butters (15), Karl Amon (8), Connor Rozee (7), Xavier Duursma (5), Jackson Mead (3)
Kick-ins - Riley Bonner (6), Darcy Byrne-Jones (1), Ryan Burton (1)
INJURY ROOM
Charlie Dixon is now considered “more unlikely than likely” to play Round 1 after he had surgery to tighten ligaments in his ankle.
Robbie Gray has gotten the all clear for Round 1 after scans on a tight hamstring that ended his game early against the Crows revealed there was no muscular damage.
Miles Bergman could also be a chance for Round 1 as he recovers from two procedures on his shoulder.
Orazio Fantasia is still some way away after having surgery on his knee.
Trent Dumont is in the AFL’s concussion protocols after a head knock in Port’s SANFL trial game, while Hugh Jackson (hip) and Kane Farrell (ACL) are also on the recovery trial.
ONE MORE THING
Jeremy Finlayson is looking like a shrewd recruit by the Power.
He kicked three against the Crows, standing up in the absence of Charlie Dixon, and offers the Power a fair bit of flexibility with his willingness to ruck.
It gives Hinkley the option to play four talls again when Dixon is fit, or give him a bit of a selection headache if he decides to persist with three.
ST KILDA
ROUND 1 CHANCES
Summer train-on rookie Jack Hayes was officially added to the St Kilda’s list last week and appears a strong chance for a Round 1 debut. The SANFL recruit took his opportunity with his 12 disposals and one goal as a forward and back-up ruckman in the absence of Paddy Ryder against the Bombers.
WELCOME BACK
After sitting out the practice match against Carlton, ruckman Rowan Marshall was back to play a key role for the Saints with his 24 disposals and 18 hitouts. Marshall was restricted to just 13 games last season with a foot injury.
WHO WAS HOT
Bradley Hill’s form has come under the microscope at times over the past two years but he impressed for the Saints off half-back against the Bombers. Hill amassed a game-high 28 disposals for the Saints, who are planning to use him as a running defender this season. Forward Tim Membrey top-scored for the Saints with three goals, while the Saints’ leading goalkicker last year Max King had two goals, including the sealer.
KEY STATS
Centre Bounce Attendances - Jack Steele (20), Seb Ross (19), Brad Crouch (14), Hunter Clark (10), Jade Gresham (5), Mitchito Owens (4)
Kick ins - Jack Sinclair (5), Brad Hill (5), Josh Battle (2), Dougal Howard (2), Jimmy Webster (2), Ben Paton (1)
INJURY WARD
The Saints’ win over Essendon came at a cost with injuries to Jack Billings and Hunter Clark. Billings is in doubt for the opening round against Collingwood after suffering a left hamstring issue in the third term. while Clark suffered a right AC joint injury which is expected to sideline him for six weeks. It was a cruel set-back for Clark after he suffered a broken jaw in a sickening clash last year. The Saints were already without midfielder Dan Hannebery (conditioning) and ruckman Paddy Ryder (achilles), who are both set to miss Round 1, while Zak Jones has taken personal leave from the club for his health and wellbeing. Former captain Jarryn Geary (shoulder) also missed the clash against Essendon and is in doubt for the start of the season.
ONE MORE THING …
The Saints’ gave their top draft pick from last year, Nasiah Wanganeen-Milera (No.11) in the second half and finished with seven disposals while next generation academy player Mitch Owens (No.33) was also injected in the final term.
ROUND 1: St Kilda v Collingwood at Marvel Stadium, Friday March 18.
SYDNEY
ROUND 1 CHANCES
Former St Kilda forward Paddy McCartin impressed in defence for the Swans alongside his brother Tom, logging 14 disposals and five marks to push his case.
McCartin has not played at AFL level since Round 16, 2018 due to a series of concussions.
Draftee Matty Roberts played as part of the extended squad against North Melbourne, but got a run only in the last quarter.
WELCOME BACK
Key forward Logan McDonald was in and out of the Swans side on debut last season, but looks set for a big second year after recording 12 disposals, five marks and two goals against North Melbourne.
WHO’S HOT
Justin McInenery has had a big pre-season, capped off with a 30-disposal and one-goal game against the Kangaroos.
Isaac Heeney (17 disposals, four goals) is also firing, relishing some greater midfield time this year.
KEY STATS
Centre Bounce Attendances - James Rowbottom (13), Luke Parker (12), Oliver Florent (8), Callum Mills (8), Chad Warner (6), Isaac Heeney (5), Justin McInerney (4), Josh Kennedy (4), Dylan Stephens (3), Errol Gulden (3), Matty Roberts (2), Jake Lloyd (1)
INJURY ROOM
Tom Papley (hamstring) is also set to miss the season-opener, while ruckman Sam Naismith (knee) will miss the season.
ONE MORE THING...
Port Adelaide recruit Peter Ladhams played in a VFL practice match on the weekend to give him a good run in the ruck.
ROUND 1: GWS v Sydney, Stadium Australia, Saturday March 19
WESTERN BULLDOGS
FRESH BLOOD
In an established Western Bulldogs line-up, there was not much new talent on show. Rookie draft selection Robbie McComb was one fresh face for the Dogs, finishing with 12 disposals and two tackles after a solid run in the second half.
WELCOME BACK
After undergoing surgery for a foot injury a week after last year’s Grand Final loss, young forward Cody Weightman showed he is on track for a Round 1 after grabbing 15 disposals in the AAMI Community Series match against the Lions.
WHO WAS HOT
Runner-up in last year’s best and fairest and new Bulldogs vice-captain, Jack Macrae (33 disposals) and Josh Dunkley (32 disposals and one goal) both found plenty of the ball, while high-flying forward Aaron Naughton kicked three goals and took six marks.
KEY STATS
Centre Bounce Attendances - Josh Dunkley (21), Jack Macrae (18), Adam Treloar (17), Marcus Bontempelli (15), Bailey Smith (7)
Kick ins - Bailey Dale (5), Caleb Daniel (5), Ed Richards (3), Josh Schache (1)
INJURY WARD
The Bulldogs are confident key defender Alex Keath will be fit for Round 1 after copping a heavy knock to the shin against Brisbane. Keath was injured in the first half of the Bulldogs’ loss to the Lions and was pulled out of the match at halftime. Fellow defender Ryan Gardner (quad) also missed the hitout against the Lions but coach Luke Beveridge was hopeful he would also be available for the Dogs’ Grand Final rematch against Melbourne.
ONE MORE THING …
After he played just five games in his debut season, the Bulldogs have urged patience with No.1 draft pick Jamarra Ugle-Hagan again this season. Coach Luke Beveridge said the 19-year-old was “not quite ready” and it was going to “take some time” to develop the young key forward.
ROUND 1: Melbourne v Western Bulldogs, MCG, Wednesday March 16
WEST COAST
ROUND 1 CHANCES
From an injury crisis comes opportunity and several young Eagles are set to take advantage of a big casualty room at West Coast.
Draftee Brady Hough has been declared as being ready for Round 1 by Jack Redden after he finished with 14 disposals and eight marks.
Recently signed SSP player Hugh Dixon had nine disposals and three marks, while former Brisbane midfielder Tom Joyce could get the second spot on the Eagles list and would be an option for Round 1 after 18 disposals.
Patrick Naish is also competing for a spot on the list and in the second half he had 14 disposals and a goal.
Connor West was strong in the middle for the Eagles and with their midfield stocks thin at the moment he should be in line for Round 1.
WELCOME BACK
Willie Rioli continued his comeback after more than two years on the sidelines, and even attended centre bounces for the Eagles as Adam Simpson got creative.
Liam Ryan missed the practice match after he was deemed a close contact and was flying high early on for the Eagles.
WHO’S HOT
With their midfield stocks decimated Tim Kelly stood up for the Eagles.
The star had 32 touches and a goal and was the one constant in the West Coast engine room.
Alex Witherden impressed off half-back, racking up 27 touches and five marks, but could be in trouble for a high bump on Fremantle star Andrew Brayshaw.
KEY STATS
Centre Bounce Attendances - Tim Kelly (21), Jack Redden (13), Tom Joyce (10), Andrew Gaff (8), Willie Rioli (7), Jamaine Jones (7), Connor West (7), Jack Petruccelle (2)
Kick-ins - Alex Witherden (6), Shannon Hurn (4), Jeremy McGovern (2), Josh Rotham (1)
INJURY ROOM
Where to begin with West Coast.
The Eagles entered the Community Series match with 10 players from their best team out.
Of those Luke Shuey (hamstring) and Liam Duggan (knee) are best placed to be right for Round 1.
ONE MORE THING
You couldn’t say the Eagles weren’t up for the fight against the Dockers.
Despite being without Elliot Yeo, Dom Sheed and Shuey the Eagles won the clearances 28-27 and contested possessions 117-101.
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