KFC SuperCoach rookie bible: Every cheapie rated ahead of Round 2 price changes
A host of rookies are already locked in for a Round 2 debut, headlined by an exciting Demons recruit. But which KFC SuperCoach cheapies should we buy, hold and sell? See verdicts for these rookie options.
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The KFC SuperCoach rookie situation was looking dire ahead but some suitors have emerged on the eve of Round 2.
However, the two month break has done wonders to club injury lists, meaning rookie priced players – generally younger and less inexperienced players – face a tough ask making their side’s best-22.
It means a number of the rookies we started with could make way for players who missed Round 1 through injury.
In this shortened season, prices will fluctuate after two games rather than the usual three, making it absolutely essential to have the right rookies going into Round 2.
Jumping on rookies with a low break-even (the score a player must beat to rise in price) will ensure your team value rises fast.
Rookie experts The Phantom and Dan Batten have teamed up to help steer you through this rookie crisis
See which cash cows you should pounce on, hold andsell ahead of the competition’s restart.
Looking to find a particular rookie? Simply press ‘Control + F’ and type in the name of the rookie to find them.
ROOKIES WHO PLAYED IN ROUND 1
(ranked by break-even)
Sam Sturt – Fremantle ($123,900, FWD)
Round 1 score: 100, Breakeven: -53
R2 likelihood: Likely - Injury the only question mark.
After recording 100 SuperCoach points, on the back of three goals and seven score involvements in an impressive debut, Sturt’s Round 2 price rise is likely to be one of the biggest of any player in the competition. The athletic forward will add $40k to his price tag even with a 50-point score and, while there won’t be SuperCoach tons every week, the 19-year-old has shown he can have an impact on the game in a short space of time – a key to SuperCoach scoring in reduced matches. However, Sturt is nursing a back injury that flared up during the competition shutdown but he has recovered better than expected this week.
“He pulled up really well, we expect him in training this week and to have him available for match selection,” Fremantle high performance manager Jason Weber said.
PHANTOM: MUST BUY. In a shortened season, cash generation becomes even more important. And this will be the first big price of the year, if, as expected, he ovecomes a recent back complaint.
BATTEN: MUST BUY. Move heaven and earth to get your hands on the No. 1 cash cow to this point. Don’t expect a ton every week, though.
Marlion Pickett – Richmond ($123,900, MID)
Round 1 score: 94, BE: -47
R2 likelihood: Certain starter.
This man needs no introduction. Richmond’s Grand Final hero started slowly in Round 1 but finished strongly to reach an impressive 94-point total. Pickett’s work in the coalface will allow him to produce rock-solid scoring and he will be a regular in the Tigers’ midfield group. It’s not often you find a 28-year-old rookie who nearly won a Norm Smith medal.
PHANTOM: MUST-BUY. And then ask yourself why you didn’t two months ago.
BATTEN: MUST BUY. If you are among the 22 per cent of SuperCoaches without him, it is time to jump on or you might as well kiss 2020 goodbye.
Justin McInerney – Sydney ($123,900, MID)
Round 1 score: 81, BE: -34
Rd 2 likelihood: Likely — promising Round 1 effort but is a slight chance of being axed.
McInerney’s Round 1 selection surprised a few SuperCoaches after his five minutes of game-time in the final week of the Marsh Series. But nobody at the Swans was surprised with the impact the young speedster had in the win at Adelaide Oval. McInerney, who rated above average for SuperCoach points, disposals, uncontested possessions, marks and inside-50s in his rookie season in the NEAFL last year, finished with 15 disposals – at 86 per cent efficiency – eight contested possessions and 81 points against the Crows.
PHANTOM: CONSIDER/HOLD. The young Swan will get opportunity and his efficiency should help him become a consistent SuperCoach scorer.
BATTEN: Buy/Hold. His job security isn’t rock solid by any means but if he gets a Round 2 run, you should look at bringing in the young Swan – especially given the lack of midfield rookies on offer.
Curtis Taylor – North Melbourne ($123,900, MID)
Round 1 score: 79, BE: -32
Rd 2 likelihood: Likely — put in a strong showing in Round 1.
Curtis Taylor’s short SuperCoach career has been a rollercoaster thus far. His two games last year yielded an average of 20, while his two scores in the pre-season were polar opposite totals of 33 and 95. Owners were fearful when he returned single digits in the first half of Round 1, but sure enough, he finished with an impressive 79 points. His unpredictability makes him a dangerous proposition in terms of fielding, however, his ceiling is promising for a forward rookie.
PHANTOM: BUY. Behind Sturt, the second-year forward is an early-season cash cow you can’t miss out on.
BATTEN: BUY/HOLD. Was on single digits at halftime but his first round effort should place him among the highest price risers to begin the season.
Mitch Georgiades – Port Adelade ($130,800, FWD)
Round 1 score: 78, BE: -28
Rd 2 likelihood: 50/50 — Should be given another chance on form, but is in some doubt after a calf concern.
Job security is vital when selecting SuperCoach cash cows and the exciting Port Adelaide forward’s is better than most, even with the impending return of Charlie Dixon. After a terrific first summer at Alberton, that statement was true before his 11 disposals and two goals on debut against the Suns in Round 1. Georgiades is strong in the air and clean on the ground but can he continue to hit the scoreboard in his first year? However, the youngster was on a modified program in the week leading up to the restart and will be assessed ahead of Round 2.
PHANTOM: LOW-END BUY/HOLD. Should benefit from Dixon’s return but scoring might be inconsistent. Georgiades will make money but he shouldn’t be a priority.
BATTEN: HOLD. I’m sceptical about his role in the team with Charlie Dixon, who missed Round 1, back in the line-up.
Sam Naismith – Sydney ($251,500, RUCK)
Round 1 score: 121, BE: -25
Rd 2 likelihood: Likel — a hamstring issue is the only concern.
Sam Naismith doesn’t qualify as a rookie in the traditional sense, but he makes the list given his low break-even. Those who took the punt were handsomely rewarded, posting a formidable 121-point total in Round 1 – the highest score of his career. Incidentally, it is just his second 100-plus total in his 23 senior games, but ruckman are set to be even more dominant in 2020 SuperCoach judging by the opening round. Can he maintain the rage and score well enough to soar in price while maintaining R2 worthy scoring? However, John Longmire sent the SuperCoach world into a frenzy when he revealed Naismith has encountered hamstring tightness on the eve of Round 2.
PHANTOM: BUY. The only problem is who comes out? Could you trade him in at R3?
BATTEN: CONSIDER/HOLD. His emphatic first round score might just be a red herring – tread carefully. The talk of downgrading Max Gawn to him makes me nervous, but a move from any other ruckman looks promising. If you started him, kudos.
Tyler Brown – Collingwood ($123,900, MID)
Round 1 score: 64, BE: -17
Rd 2 likelihood: Likely — Jaidyn Stephenson won’t play in Round 2 but he could take his place in the weeks to come.
The 20-year-old was clean and composed on debut against the Bulldogs, finishing with 15 disposals, seven contested possessions and 64 points. Brown was the fourth-ranked Magpie for centre bounces in Round 1 and, as his VFL contested-possession rate of 57 per cent last year proves, he’s terrific at the contest. But the 188cm Brown is just as effective on the outside. And it’s this all-round ability which is likely to keep him in Nathan Buckley’s side even when star midfielder Adam Treloar returns.
PHANTOM: BUY/HOLD. Short-term job security looks solid, the scoring potential even better.
BATTEN: BUY/HOLD. Brown is set to retain his spot in the Pies line-up, meaning you’ve got to jump on this week to get that moolah.
Jacob Townsend – Essendon ($222,900, FWD)
Round 1 score: 99, BE: -14
Rd 2 likelihood: Certain starter with Essendon’s injuries.
The pre-season chatter out of The Hangar that Townsend would spend time in the midfield was just that, booting three goals as a pure forward in an imposing Bomber debut. His role doesn’t appear to be particularly SuperCoach friendly, so scores like his 99-point effort in Round 1 may be few and far between.
PHANTOM: HOLD. With a number of basement-price options available in the forward line, there’s no need to jump at the former Tiger. But there’s no need to jump off, either.
BATTEN: AVOID. Don’t let his score of 99 in Round 1 fool you – Townsend has never been a strong scorer and I can’t see that changing.
Jarrod Brander – West Coast ($133,000, DEF/FWD)
Round 1 score: 59, BE: -8
Rd 2 likelihood: Likely — Eagles like him and no returning players to pinch his spot.
All the talk of a pre-season role change came to life in Round 1 with the versatile 20-year-old, whose three career games prior to 2020 came as a forward, lined up on a wing against the Demons. And a 13-disposal, seven-mark performance, following an impressive Marsh Series, suggests it’s now his spot to lose. The great rookie-price hope in defence – for now, at least – given the pinpoint ball-use of the Eagles from halfback.
PHANTOM: BUY/HOLD. Brander’s price might not explode right away but given the lack of rookie-price options in defence, you should have him.
BATTEN: BUY/HOLD. His flexibility as DEF/FWD rookie and the Eagles’ willingness to play him is a good mix. We’ll take whatever we can get in defence this year.
Ben Davis – Adelaide ($123,900, FWD)
Round 1 score: 51 BE: -4
Rd 2 likelihood: 50/50.
Ben Davis won just five possessions in Adelaide’s first round loss, a major helping him to 51 points. Matthew Nicks mentioned Davis as one of the kids they are keen to get games into but his position isn’t locked in by any means.
PHANTOM: HOLD. Unless you started without both Sturt and Taylor or there’s a surprise at selection.
BATTEN: LOW END TRADE. Can’t see him delivering promising scores and may be pushed out in Round 2, but certainly not a must trade.
Connor Budarick – Gold Coast ($106,900, FWD/MID)
Round 1 score: 44, BE: -4
Rd 2 likelihood: Likely — eye-catching performance in intra-club should secure him a spot.
Budarick was solid in defence on debut, finishing with eight disposals, three tackles and no clanger against the Power. The composed 18-year-old, who played eight NEAFL games – and averaged 18 disposals – in his draft year, should play plenty of senior footy in 2020 but SuperCoaches want to see him further up the ground. But with the Suns depth of talent, that might not happen for a while. Budarick performed strongly in a recent practice game which should hold him in good stead for selection.
PHANTOM: LOW-END BUY/HOLD. It’s likely to be a slow burn with Budarick but, if you didn’t start with him, the price might help.
BATTEN: BUY/HOLD. Even if he’s dropped for Round 2, his DPP status is handy and his pre-season scoring suggests he will deliver a good return on investment considering his bargain basement price.
Deven Robertson – Brisbane ($117,300, MID)
Round 1 score: 47, BE: -3
Rd 2 likelihood: Unlikely — a late inclusion in Round 1 and can’t see him remaining.
The Lions draftee was one of the biggest sliders on draft night – breaking Sam Walsh’s under-18 championships disposal record – averaging 30 disposals and 128 points. A late inclusion in Round 1, Robertson showed glimpses but his seven possession did little to cement a long-term place in the Lions side.
PHANTOM: WATCH. Might get squeezed out for Round 2 so keep Tyler Brown or Harley Bennell in your sights.
BATTEN: TRADE. If you missed one of the Round 1 rookies, look to move on Robertson.
Matt Rowell – Gold Coast ($207,300, MID)
Round 1 score: 68, BE: -1
Rd 2 likelihood: Certain starter
The No. 1 pick has so far justified the hype. After a dominant Marsh Series, Rowell tallied 19 disposals, 11 contested possessions and 80 points in an impressive debut. Only Hugh Greenwood and Travis Boak won more of the footy in a contest than the 18-year-old at Metricon Stadium in Round 1. Rowell’s cash generation might appear slower to start but his price will continue to rise right throughout the year.
PHANTOM: MUST-BUY. C’mon. If you went without Rowell in Round 1, trade him in now and pretend like it never happened.
BATTEN: BUY/HOLD. Don’t even think about trading him out. Matt Rowell has the potential to be just as good – if not better – than Sam Walsh as a high-priced rookie.
Kysaiah Pickett – Melbourne ($157,800, FWD)
Round 1 score: 57, BE: 3
Rd 2 likelihood: Likely — promising debut and the Dees like him.
‘Kosi’ Pickett packs a punch and his high energy performance in Round 1 impressed fans and the Demons’ match committee alike. As a first round draftee, Pickett is at a higher asking price and has a fairly low break-even after a reasonable 57-point outing. Worth noting that he kicked two goals to reach this total – a sign his scoring power may be lacking if he fails to hit the scoreboard.
PHANTOM: LOW-END TRADE. In the forward line, there’s a number of bottom-price options who will generate money faster.
BATTEN: HOLD. Great job security. His scoring will be up and down but he showed enough in Round 1 to persist with if you started him.
John Noble – Collingwood ($215,400, DEF)
Round 1 score: 74, BE: 8
Rd 2 likelihood: Likely — played all their finals last year but is probably in their bottom four.
As he did during the pre-season in a Collingwood side plays high-possession football, Noble worked up-and-down Marvel Stadium in Round 1, finishing with 19 disposals, four intercepts and three score involvements. The ball-winning of the mature-age draftee has been consistent since his Round 17 debut last year. Noble had 18 disposals against the Eagles, before recording tallies of 21, 20, 19 and 16 in his next four senior appearances. Expect more of the same upon restart.
PHANTOM: BUY/HOLD. Noble’s role and scoring potential make him worth every cent of his $215k price tag. Trade down from a failed mid-price option or up from Zerk-Thatcher if he doesn’t play in Round 2.
BATTEN: BUY/HOLD. The lack of options down back make him close to a must-have. A slight upgrade from Brandon Zerk-Thatcher is a possible option.
Ryan Gardner – Western Bulldogs ($136,800, FWD)
Round 1 score: 44, BE: 8
Rd 2 likelihood: 50/50
Remember this guy? Last year’s rookie trap Ryan Gardner – who SuperCoaches jumped on early during the byes and paid the price – managed to secure a Round 1 spot playing in defence. His 44 points almost topped his total contribution from two games in 2019.
PHANTOM: TRADE/AVOID. Use your extra trades to set yourself up for the biggest Round 2 cash injection possible.
BATTEN: AVOID. This man cannot be trusted in SuperCoach, and we found out the hard way last year.
Toby Bedford – Melborune ($123,900, FWD)
Round 1 score: 39, BE: 8
Rd 2 likelihood: Unlikely — will struggle to be picked in a full-strength Dees side.
After an impressive practice match performance against North Melbourne and an exciting half of footy in the Marsh Series opener, Bedford lined up in Round 1 alongside fellow small forwards Kozzie Pickett and Charlie Spargo. But it didn’t work for the Demons and there’s a few – including Harley Bennell – putting their hand up for selection to take on the Blues. So Bedford, who recorded six disposals and 39 points, is no certainty to see a price rise in Round 2.
PHANTOM: TRADE. Toby Bedford to Sturt or Georgiades is the move – in that order, of course. Or even Izak Rankine.
BATTEN: Trade. His first round effort was average and looks set to make way in Round 2.
Ben Cavarra – Western Bulldogs ($123,900, FWD)
Round 1 score: 31, BE: 15
Rd 2 likelihood: Unlikely — don’t expect him to be picked.
The footy world grew with excitement and perhaps got swept up in the VFL star’s fairytale, when word spread on the eve of Round 1 that he’d be making his long-awaited AFL debut. He finished with just three touches, a goal and 31 points in their dismal defeat, and appears certain to be among a list of outs for their second round clash.
PHANTOM: TRADE. See Gardner/Bedford.
BATTEN: TRADE. See Bedford.
Billy Frampton – Adelaide ($165,400, FWD)
Round 1 score: 45, BE: 19
Rd 2 likelihood: 50/50 — the MRO might have a look at his fight with Kyle Hartigan.
The former Power big man, who posted SuperCoach scores of 175, 167, 145 and 141 in the SANFL last year, did enough against the Swans in Round 1 to suggest he’ll be there against his old side in Showdown 48. Playing as Reilly O’Brien’s back-up in the ruck, Frampton started well, before fading, to finish with nine disposals, 11 hit-outs and 45 points.
PHANTOM: TRADE. There’s a number of basement price options around so, unless you’ve got them all, set yourself up for the biggest cash injection possible and trade. Will he even be there in Round 2?
BATTEN: TRADE. Difficult to justify an elevated priced forward on the fringe.
Tom Green – GWS ($166,800, MID)
Round 1 score: 43, BE: 22
Rd 2 likelihood: Unlikely — but GWS’ two games in five days to start the season could see him survive.
Like Zerk-Thatcher, an imposing pre-season total made Tom Green hot property during the pre-season. Green’s contested-ball winning ability suits the game of SuperCoach perfectly, however a stint on the sidelines looms large considering the Giants’ midfield logjam. Callan Ward appears set to take his spot after a quiet debut.
PHANTOM: HOLD/LOW-END TRADE. If he stays in the side, even with Ward returning, it’s a huge tick for his job security. And, despite a slow start in Round 1, his scoring potential is better than most. But if Bennell, McHenry or Hibbberd are named, a trade makes sense.
BATTEN: HOLD/LOW-END TRADE. Looked to be the most promising rookie in the pre-season, but is set to be squeezed out of the Giants line-up. But if he is given another chance he is worth holding onto.
Brandon Zerk-Thatcher – Essendon ($189,000, DEF)
Round 1 score: 49, BE: 23
Rd 2 likelihood: Unlikely — set to make way for two returning defenders.
The 21-year-old, who was the top-ranked player for intercept possessions in the VFL in 2018 and 2019, didn’t do much wrong in the second senior game of his career in Round 1, tallying 11 effective disposals and 49 points. But first-choice defenders Patrick Ambrose and Cale Hooker look set to return from injury against the Swans, casting real doubt of Zerk-Thatcher’s place in the side.
PHANTOM: WATCH. Follow John Worsfold’s move at the selection table. Keep Noble, Stephen Hill and Tom Doedee in mind
BATTEN: TRADE. I don’t like his chances of making that Round 2 Essendon side.
Lachie Schultz – Fremantle ($208,000, FWD)
Round 1 score: 51 BE: 29
Rd 2 likelihood: Likely.
A pre-season favourite of number cruncher Fantasy Freako after averaging 80 points and slotting six goals during the Marsh Series. Schultz’s season opener was more tame, scoring 51 points from nine touches. The Dockers forward averaged 42.7 points from seven games in his first season in 2019.
PHANTOM: HOLD/LOW-END TRADE. Unless he’s your only option to get to a Sturt or Taylor. He should improve on Round 1 performance.
BATTEN: LOW END TRADE. Job security is solid but shapes as a rookie that will get you nowhere slowly.
Brandon Starcevich – Brisbane ($147,700, DEF/MID)
Round 1 score: 28, BE: 29
Rd 2 likelihood: Unlikely — due to Brisbane’s clean bill of health.
Despite being drafted as a forward in 2017 and spending time in that part of the ground in the Marsh Series, Starcevich lined up across halfback in absence of the retired Luke Hodge and recruits Grant Birchall (hamstring) and Callum Ah Chee (illness) in Round 1. The versatile 20-year-old only had nine disposals but he won the ball in important spots, finishing with six intercepts – two of them marks. However, four turnovers hurt his final SuperCoach score, which was lower than his Round 2 break-even.
PHANTOM: TRADE. There’s no guarantee Starcevich won’t lose money in Round 2. Consider him as the starting point of a restructure.
BATTEN: HOLD if you can manage. His DPP is a plus, and though he a Round 2 spot is unlikely, he should be there and abouts.
Noah Anderson – Gold Coast ($202,800, MID)
Round 1 score; 41, BE: 36
Rd 2 likelihood: Likely.
The No. 2 selection in the 2019 draft didn’t set the world on fire on debut, his 12 touches corresponding to 42 points. I’m no mathematician, but that score is awfully close to his break-even.
PHANTOM: TRADE. He’ll get better as the season goes on but it will be a slow burn money-wise.
BATTEN: AVOID. Assuming you’ve already got his best mate Matt Rowell, two $200k+ midfielders or too many.
Isaac Cumming – GWS ($245,000, DEF)
Round 1 score: 57, BE: 37
Rd 2 likelihood: 50/50 — Zac Williams returns but he could move into the midfield.
After an impressive Marsh Series, an eight-disposal performance against the Cats wasn’t what SuperCoaches were hoping for in Round 1. And the news star teammate Zac Williams is ready to go, after missing the opening-round clash through injury, isn’t music to their ears, either. Cumming, who was a standout on the track over summer after dominating in the NEAFL over the past two seasons, was efficient against Geelong, hitting the target with all but one of his disposals. But he could be the one to make way.
PHANTOM: WATCH. If he doesn’t play, trading Cumming out will give you some flexibility at the trade table. Make some cash via DPP – or a hopeful Will Gould debut – or go straight to Doedee or Hill.
BATTEN: TRADE. Slim chance of playing in Round 2 and that’s too much cash being wasted.
Fischer McAsey – Adelaide ($184,800, DEF)
Round 1 score: 16, BE: 54
Rd 2 likelihood: 50/50 – has continued to impress on the track but could make way for another tall defender.
A strong pre-season saw intercept defender Fischer McAsey thrust into the Adelaide side, but his performance was lacking. McAsey’s paltry total of 16 points would have frustrated his 35,000 owners who paid top dollar for him.
PHANTOM: TRADE. You don’t want to lose money this week. Think restructure.
BATTEN: MUST TRADE. You know you’re in trouble when your break-even is nearly four times your average …
MORE SUPERCOACH:
KFC SuperCoach: Dan Batten reveals his 5 trades for Round 2
KFC SuperCoach expert Al Paton reveals how he will use his five trades for Round 2
KFC SuperCoach 2020: The Phantom’s free agent targets and top 50 player rankings
DIDN’T PLAY ROUND 1
Izak Rankine – Gold Coast ($123,900, FWD)
In a blow to SuperCoaches, the excitement machine won’t make his highly anticipated debut in Round 2, with the club saying he’s “a couple of weeks away” on Monday. But when it does happen, it won’t just be Suns fans watching. Rankine has the talent to make a significant impact from the get-go – for his club and SuperCoaches alike – and shapes as a lucrative cash cow with good job security. The only question mark is his body, suffering several injury setbacks since he was drafted in 2018.
PHANTOM: WATCH. When it finally comes to, we’ll all be trading him in.
BATTEN: WATCH. A must-trade in once he has played a game.
Stephen Hill – Fremantle $190,600, DEF/FWD)
The opportunity to pick a player who has surpassed an 85 season average on four occasions doesn’t come around often. Injury has been the prime concern in recent seasons and Hill was managed through the pre-season, playing just the second Marsh game. Sure enough, the veteran left the ground at three quarter time in that match with a left quad concern and didn’t return. The lay-off has done him the world of good, now a good chance of playing in Round 2.
PHANTOM: BUY. The ability to make fast cash and score at a premium-like rate far outweighs the risk in a shortened season when SuperCoaches have more trades at their disposal. If he’s named, I think I’ll be jumping on.
BATTEN: CONSIDER/BUY. Any playing rookie defender is ideal and a player of Hill’s standing at this price is too good to pass up. Waiting a week may be the smart move given his injury history.
Ned McHenry – Adelaide ($123,900, MID)
Rd 2 likelihood: 50/50 — Tyson Stengle’s suspension has enhanced his chances.
The club-imposed four-game suspension handed to small forward Tyson Stengle opens the door for McHenry, who was in line for selection over summer before a late injury setback. The running machine applied five more tackles than any other player at the 2018 under-18 championships and averaged 115 SuperCoach points per game in the TAC Cup, before impressing in the SANFL last year.
PHANTOM: WATCH. Should score well when the opportunity comes so keep him in mind for Round 3, if he does get first crack at Stengle’s spot.
BATTEN: WATCH. His tackling presence should ensure he is a consistent scorer and the door has been left ajar by Tyson Stengle.
Will Gould – Sydney ($117,300, DEF)
Rd 2 likelihood: 50/50 — don’t hold your breath.
The ready-made defender averaged 19 disposals and 89 SuperCoach points per game at SANFL level last year and cleaned up Giant Matt de Boer with a big, but fair, bump in the first 10 minutes of the Marsh Series. He just missed out in Round 1 but Gould is likely to be a part of the Swans defence soon enough.
PHANTOM: WATCH. He’s ready to go and could be our SuperCoach rookie saviour in defence. It’s up to Horse now.
BATTEN: WATCH. If named, the lack of options in defence would have me tempted to jump on.
Harley Bennell – Melbourne ($123,900, MID)
Rd 2 likelihood: Certain starter — Melbourne confirmed the news on Wednesday that he will make his Demons debut.
You’d be lying if you haven’t already thought about it, even with an increased need for durability this season. And, with the injury-plagued former Sun and Docker, who averaged 96 points or more in four of his first five seasons in the competition, working his way into the selection frame at Melbourne, it’s something you should continue to at least think about.
PHANTOM: BUY. I’m all aboard if he’s named on Thursday night. If he plays a full game, it’s likely he scores 85 points or more, given how damaging he is with the ball. If his body fails him again, you’ve got extra trades.
BATTEN: WATCH, watch, and watch some more. Do not bring Bennell until he has played a game and you can be confident he won’t break down.
Jackson Mead – Port Adelaide ($117,300, MID)
R2 likelihood: Unlikely.
At 184cm and 83kg – and with terrific versatility in his game – the father-son prospect is a strong chance to see early action when the season resumes. Mead, who has overcome a pre-season hamstring injury, averaged 106 points at last year’s under-18 championships and impressed at Alberton over summer.
PHANTOM: WATCH. Should see some early senior action now he’s recovered from a pre-season hamstring injury. Looms as a terrific downgrade option.
BATTEN: WATCH. A likely type who will feature in our sides at some point.
Dylan Stephens – Sydney ($189,300, MID)
R2 likelihood: Unlikely.
All signs were pointing towards an early debut for No. 5 draft pick Dylan Stephens, but two sub-50 point totals in the Marsh Series put him down the pecking order – for both Sydney and SuperCoaches. Stephens averaged 82 points from 13 senior SANFL games last season and took out the Swans’ pre-season 2km time trial.
PHANTOM: WATCH. Price could be an issue as a downgrade but he’ll score well once he gets going.
BATTEN WATCH. His pre-season scoring didn’t reflect his talent and is worth a look once we see him again at AFL level
Hayden Young – Fremantle ($180,300, DEF)
R2 likelihood: Unlikely.
Young averaged 22 disposals and 107 points at the national championships and is capable of playing an important role in the Dockers defence from the get-go. The intercepting defender has an elite left-peg but was under an injury cloud during the pre-season. Like Hill, the break could prove to be a godsend. Young impressed in a recent match practice session but a Round 2 berth appears just out of reach.
PHANTOM: WATCH. Don’t be surprised to see Young come into the team over the next month - be ready to pounce.
BATTEN: HIGH ON WATCHLIST. One of my favourites of the 2019 crop and should be a prominent SuperCoach player in the years to come.
Darcy Cameron – Collingwood ($123,900, FWD/RUCK
R2 likelihood: Certain starter — Coach Nathan Buckley confirmed the news on Tuesday.
Darcy Cameron’s imposing 127-point pre-season display will be fresh in Nathan Buckley’s mind considering Mason Cox’s knee complaint in the lead-up to their blockbuster clash against Richmond. He noted Cameron has been challenging Brodie Grundy, arguably the best ruckman in the competition, at training. His selection would help the cash flow of more than 55,000 teams who currently own the former Swan.
PHANTOM: WATCH. And hope. Darcy Cameron’s potential selection will make the SuperCoach ruck strategy even more intriguing.
BATTEN: BUY/HOLD. He may not hold his spot but could have an absolute night out if Richmond play just one ruckman, making him difficult to drop.
Trent Rivers – Melbourne ($117,300 DEF/MID)
R2 likelihood: Certain — a welcome surprise for SuperCoaches with rookie defendes few and far between.
The Round 2 bolter starred at last year’s national under-18 championships, averaging 22 disposals – at 77 per cent efficiency – and 94 points per game. His ball-use and speed from halfback was a highlight – traits which should see his name pop up at selection later in the year. He has secured a Round 2 call-up seemingly out of nowhere and looms as a great sideways option for a non-playing rookie.
Mitch Hibberd – Essendon ($114,400, MID)
R2 likelihood: Unlikely — injuries to small forwards leaves him in with a sneaky chance.
It seems like years ago that we were spruiking Mitch Hibberd as one of the best buys in SuperCoach. He averaged 128 points per game in the VFL as an inside midfielder last season and shaped as a likely Round 1 contender until injury struck. Would assist an area that is lacking at the Bombers. Hibberd impressed in match-simulation over the weekend, slotting three majors.
PHANTOM: WATCH/CONSIDER. Another potential downgrade target, who should score well from the outset.
BATTEN: WATCH/CONSIDER. His VFL numbers suggest he will be close to a must-have if he plays at senior level.
Lachie Ash – GWS ($193,800, DEF)
R2 likelihood: Unlikely.
Giants defender Isaac Cumming just got the nod over Lachie Ash for Round 1 and now it seems he is further back in the cue. However, scores of 88 and 62 in the Marsh Series scoring suggest he will justify his high asking price when he gets his chance.
PHANTOM: WATCH. Could be a great cash cow when he breaks in.
BATTEN TENTATIVE WATCH. Need to be sure of his job security before forking out the big bucks.
Jez McLennan – Gold Coast ($123,900, DEF)
R2 likelihood: Unlikely.
At the 2018 national under-18 carnival, McLennan took more intercept marks than any other defender, playing for South Australia. But, despite being named a senior emergency a number of times, he failed to make his debut last year. Instead, the 185cm right-footer averaged 15 disposals in 14 NEAFL games before an ankle injury ended his season. He’s ready for senior footy but with yet another influx of young talent, which is forcing midfielders to halfback, McLennan is struggling to break through.
PHANTOM: WATCH. Keep your fingers crossed, because we’ll take everything we can get in defence, but it might be a while.
BATTEN: WATCH. He is prone to the odd stinker but his role bodes well for SuperCoach.
Jeremy Sharp – Gold Coast ($117,300, MID)
R2 likelihood: Unlikely.
The Suns gave up their mid-first round selection from 2020 to secure the smooth-moving wingman, suggesting they rate him highly. Proved he can get his hands on the footy in both Marsh Series matches despite limited minutes, finishing with nine and 14 touches – playing just the second half in both matches.
PHANTOM: WATCH. Maybe at some point.
BATTEN: WATCH. Expect him to play at some stage in Gold Coast’s young side.
Nakia Cockatoo – Geelong ($148,200, FWD/MID)
R2 likelihood: No chance — ruled out with injury for at leas the next two weeks.
We’d all love to pick the highly-talented Cat but he’s missed more than 60 games due to injury since 2016. And that number will continue to climb with February’s hamstring setback keeping him on the sidelines for a while yet.
PHANTOM: IGNORE. Unfortunately.
BATTEN: WATCH VERY CLOSELY. Do not jump the gun and buy this high risk player before he has played a game.
Aiden Bonar – North Melbourne ($202,800, FWD/MID)
R2 likelihood: Unlikely — still on the fringe, but not far away.
The Roos recruit was popular during the pre-season, however injury and form denied him a Round 1 spot. Bonar played just six games in two seasons at the Giants but has recorded season averages of 99 (2018) and 94 (2019) points in the NEAFL. His 76-point effort in Marsh 1 was very encouraging.
PHANTOM: WATCH. The pre-season favourite failed to get up for Round 1 but his scoring potential is high enough to keep him in the downgrade conversation at the price
BATTEN: WATCH. On the fringe at this stage but will be a matter of when, not if, he gets his chance.
AND KEEP AN EYE OUT FOR …
Luke Valente – Fremantle ($123,900 MID)
Injury restricted the 19-year-old, who averaged 159 points at SANFL under-18 level in his draft year, to just seven WAFL league games last year. But if his body stays sound, Valente, who is “flying at training” according to coach Justin Longmuir, should get his first taste of senior action in 2020.
Lachlan Sholl - Adelaide ($123,900, DEF)
Teammate Brodie Smith says the second-year defender, who tallied 33 disposals, eight intercepts and 129 SuperCoach points in only his second SANFL appearance last year, is “really close” to a senior debut. And, given his elite foot skills and ball-winning ability across half-back, Sholl could be the rookie-price saviour in defence.
Shane McAdam - Adelaide ($123,900, FWD)
The exciting forward has been a standout at Crows’ training and is eyeing Tyson Stengle’s spot in the side. McAdam has all the tricks to become a solid SuperCoach scorer, too.
Jacob Kennerley – Geelong ($123,900, DEF)
Geelong’s pre-season injuries saw running-machine Jacob Kennerley enter the frame, playing both Marsh Series games with modest returns. The break has pushed him back in the cue with felled Cats returning.
Trent Bianco – Collingwood ($117,300, DEF/MID)
Trent Bianco has a tough ask pushing his case for a debut in a stacked Collingwood side. The outside midfielder averaged 18 disposals and 99 points per game at the national championships last season.
Caleb Serong – Fremantle ($175,800, MID)
Serong’s dynamic 60-point effort from 57 per cent gametime during the pre-season showed his immense talent. The Dockers top-10 selection is at an elevated price tag and his scoring power at under-18 level was notable. One to keep an eye when he eventually gets an opportunity.
Jack Bytel – St Kilda ($123,900, MID)
Injury kept Jack Bytel out of action in his debut AFL season. The tough midfielder averaged 115 points at NAB League level in 2018 but seems a some way off after not appearing once during their pre-season games.
Riley Collier-Dawkins – Richmond ($123,900, MID)
A tall inside midfielder, Collier-Dawkins faces an uphill battle cracking into Richmond’s midfield but the first round draftee could add something different to their mix.
Cooper Stephens – Geelong ($139,800, MID)
The hardened draftee spent most of the year building up while recovering from a fractured leg, and finished the year with an equal-first finish in the yoyo test at the draft combine. Managed to play in their opening Marsh Series game but looked off the pace, scoring just 21 points.
Jack Mahony – North Melbourne ($117,300, FWD/MID)
Mahony was close to a Round 1 debut after featuring in both Marsh Series clashes and the small forward will be in the reckoning at some stage this season.
Brad Close – Geelong ($109,900, FWD/MID)
Bobbed up in the Marsh 1 with a score of 51 and SuperCoaches immediately took notice considering his discount price. The mature-age small forward will be hot property if he gets a senior debut.
Tom Sparrow – Melbourne ($182,500, FWD)
The second-year Dee came from the clouds in the pre-season, tallying 17 touches and booting a goal on his way to a promising 77-point total in Marsh 1.
Tobin Cox – Port Adelaide ($123,900, FWD)
The crafty forward slotted 30 goals from 15 games in the SANFL in 2019, but his 24-point score from a full game in the Marsh Series is probably a better reflection of his scoring potential.