Getgaff's 2017 Phantom

[getgaff]

UPDATED 18/11

It’s back for 2017.

Little later this year than in 2016 largely due to having less time to dedicate to it but also I found that I was chopping and changing things with it all the time whether it was the draft order (during trade period), different bolters and sliders etc.


*Disclaimer – This is based off gut feel/ inside info/ needs based. Happy to justify selections.

I'm not an expert and don;t claim to be for that matter but I do enjoy giving my opinion and receiving any feedback whether positive or critical.

I do my best every year to keep up to date with it all, learn player traits, watch tapes and predict the draft as I see it. I give a lot of credit to draft experts and fellow posters both here and outside that I look upon for guidance.

I’ll look to include draft profiles and write ups of the first round than go with profiles from the second round.

Again any feedback/ questions I’m happy to accept and look forward to hearing the thoughts of others


PICK NUMBER 1: BRISBANE / LUKE DAVIES - UNIACKE (DANDENONG STINGRAYS/ VC)

HEIGHT, WEIGHT: 187 cm, 85 kg
DATE OF BIRTH: 08/06/1999
PROJECTED DRAFT RANGE: TOP 3
BEST POSITION: Inside midfield/ general forward
SIMILAR TO: Josh P. Kennedy

RATIONALE: Going to stick with my gut feel and taking the best pure midfielder in the draft for Brisbane, a Rockliff replacement over the x factor of Rayner.

Pick 1 talk comes down to 2 players for me - Davies Uniacke and Rayner.

Doesn't have the star traits that Rayner does but is a player that will lead well from the front best shown in the second half of the Elimination Final for Dandenong against Eastern. Dragged his team from nowhere at half time to a win for the ages. LDU is a bankable player for Brisbane who hopefully forges a career with the Lions.

Might just be me but I think there's flight risk attached to Rayner as well. I'm not just saying that because of the Vic Metro V Vic Country argument either, more based off an interview that was shown with Rayner a couple of weeks ago. Seemed certain that he'd end up back in Victoria.

IN THE MIX: Cam Rayner, Paddy Dow, Andrew Brayshaw.


PICK NUMBER 2: FREMANTLE / PADDY DOW (BENDIGO PIONEERS/ VC)

HEIGHT, WEIGHT: 185 cm, 78 kg.
DATE OF BIRTH: 16/10/1999
PROJECTED DRAFT RANGE: Top 3
BEST POSITION: Balanced midfielder
SIMILAR TO: Adam Treloar

WHY: Sticking with my previous pick 2.

The grunt work of LDU will appeal and I think Luke would fit well into the WA lifestyle as well but I think Dow as a more balanced mid is more beneficial.

Again I wouldn't be surprised if it's LDU, however personally I wouldn't be drafting Rayner at 2 if he was available

A real balanced midfielder who has speed to break away from stoppages and the class to hit his targets on the outside.

Adds more class to the Dockers team that will miss Lachie Weller and has balance to his game that will entice Fremantle more so than the bullocking of work of Rayner in my opinion.

WHO ELSE: Luke Davies Uniacke, Cam Rayner, Darcy Fogarty, Andrew Brayshaw.


PICK 3: CARLTON / CAMERON RAYNER (WESTERN JETS/ VM)

HEIGHT, WEIGHT: 187 cm, 88 kg
DATE OF BIRTH: 21/10/1999
PROJECTED DRAFT RANGE: TOP 3
BEST POSITION: General forward
SIMILAR TO: Dustin Martin/ Christian Petracca

WHY: If Rayner is available I can't imagine Carlton needing much time with there pick.

Brings real star factor and excitement to the team that drafts him, powerful bodied already, a Dusty Martin stiff arm and explosive speed.

There's a knock over his endurance which is why he will be more of a half forward early in his senior career with the scope to become a permanent midfielder.

WHO ELSE: Luke Davies Uniacke, Paddy Dow, Andrew Brayshaw.

PICK 4: NORTH MELBOURNE / ANDREW BRAYSHAW (SANDRINGHAM DRAGONS/ VM)

HEIGHT, WEIGHT: 183 cm, 80 kg
DATE OF BIRTH: 08/11/1999
PROJECTED DRAFT RANGE: 1st ROUND
BEST POSITION: Inside midfielder
SIMILAR TO: Rory Sloane

WHY: There's often a back end of the season/ TAC finals bolter in the draft. Look no further than Taranto last year for example.

This year it looks to be Brayshaw who by all reports is firming for a top 5 pick next Friday, possibly because of the question marks over Cerra (limited exposure in under age year 2016) and Fogarty (limited exposure 2017).

There's obviously the family connection with the Brayshaw's and North but that alone won't seal the deal.

Impressive player who probably doesn't drop any further than Freo's pick 5 now. Natural footballer with a balanced game, but especially hard at the contest (Similar to Angus) and has great smarts. Dangerous off half forward and with North's regeneration should get a good look at AFL in 2018.

Great endurance and speed, brings team mates into the game and seems a great pick for North

WHO ELSE: Jaidyn Stepehnson, Adam Cerra, Darcy Fogarty.


PICK 5: FREMANTLE / DARCY FOGARTY (GLENELG/ SA)

HEIGHT, WEIGHT: 192 cm, 95 kg
DATE OF BIRTH: 25/09/1999
PROJECTED DRAFT RANGE: 1st ROUND
BEST POSITION: Tall utility


WHO ELSE: Andrew Brayshaw, Aaron Naughton, Jaidyn Stephenson, Adam Cerra.


PICK 6: COLLINGWOOD / ADAM CERRA (EASTERN RANGES/ VM)

HEIGHT, WEIGHT: 186 cm, 80 kg
DATE OF BIRTH: 07/10/1999
PROJECTED DRAFT RANGE: Top 10
BEST POSITION: Inside midfielder
SIMILAR TO: Scott Pendlebury

WHY: Cerra is a little bit of an unknown because of missing all of season 2016 with a knee meniscus injury but dominates games through the midfield with his ball use.

A calm and composed midfielder who makes good decisions and is a smooth mover across the ground and through traffic but doesn’t have that breakaway speed that might be wanted.

Genuine line ball still but either way that it falls I can't see either of these guys lasting past the Saints pick 7/ 8 combo.

WHO ELSE: Darcy Fogarty, Nick Coffield, Aaron Naughton.


PICK 7: ST. KILDA / JAIDYN STEPHENSON (EASTERN RANGES/ VM)

HEIGHT, WEIGHT: 189 cm, 76 kg
DATE OF BIRTH: 15/01/1999
PROJECTED DRAFT RANGE: Top 10
BEST POSITION: General forward
SIMILAR TO: Nathan Fyfe circa 2009 draft

WHY: The Saints have actively chased players to add to the midfield and in Stephenson they get a midfielder whose x factor gives him a real outside point of difference.

Given his slight body he will need to spend some good time in the weights room but already has a great endurance base to start from. A players like Stephenson off HF would also allow players like Billings and Gresham to spend increased midfield time.

His consistency within games will need work but that will improve with a bigger body as well.

WHO ELSE: Adam Cerra, Andrew Brayshaw, Nick Coffield, Aidan Bonar.


PICK 8: ST. KILDA / HUNTER CLARK (DANDENONG STINGRAYS/ VC)

HEIGHT, WEIGHT: 186 cm, 80 kg
DATE OF BIRTH: 26/03/1999
PROJECTED DRAFT RANGE: 1st ROUND
BEST POSITION: Inside midfielder/ Medium defender
SIMILAR TO: Sam Powell Pepper

WHY: Has transitioned from a rebounding defender to contested ball winning midfielder in his draft season making him an attractive first round prospect for a number of clubs.

After gaining outside class in Stephenson at pick 7 the Saints pick again and will need to decided on what comes up next. Do they go for a inside mid like Constable, the general defender in Coffield, the bull in Bonar or even the tall defender in Naughton?

I've gone for the local lad Hunter Clark who has impressed as a mid in 2017 after plying his juniors trade as more of a defender. With increased midfield time his production improved significantly over 2017 and showed he has the traits to match it inside.

Like Powell Pepper he can transition into senior footy relatively easy and there could be good opportunites with a good pre-season behind him.

Compliments his stoppage and clearance work with evasiveness, break away speed and is able to use the ball well on both sides.

WHO ELSE: Nick Coffield, Aidan Bonar, Aaron Naughton.


PICK 9: WESTERN BULLDOGS / NICHOLAS COFFIELD (NORTHERN KNIGHTS/ VM)

HEIGHT, WEIGHT: 190 cm, 83 kg
DATE OF BIRTH: 23/10/1999
PROJECTED DRAFT RANGE: 1st ROUND
BEST POSITION: General defender
SIMILAR TO: Nick Vlastuin (leadership qualities)

WHY: In Coffield the Bulldogs can cover the loss of Murphy, Matt Boyd and in the future Morris.

I've had him as high as Colingwood's pick 6 for some time now but decided against settling on that. Has the size, versatility and closing speed to play as a third tall or on smaller types also a bit like Morris.

The Bulldogs requirement for increased ball use out of the back half and connecting to the midfield is pressing having lost the experienced Murphy and Boyd. Coffield brings great leadership qualities to a team as well having captained Metro to the Under 18 Champions in 2017.

WHO ELSE: Hunter Clark, Ed Richards, Charlie Constable, Jarrod Brander.


PICK 10: CARLTON / CHARLIE CONSTABLE (SANDRIGHAM DRAGONS/ VM)

HEIGHT, WEIGHT: 191 cm, 86 kg.
DATE OF BIRTH: 18/05/1999
PROJECTED DRAFT RANGE: 1st ROUND
BEST POSITION: Inside midfielder
SIMILAR TO: Patrick Cripps

WHY: Rayner and Constable in the top 10 would gladden a Blues fans heart.

Prototype for the modern day midfielder Constable's strength is at the stoppages which meets a need for the Blues as an extra powerful body.

Not blessed with breakaway speed but Charlie is a smooth mover over the ground, makes good decisions, has great awareness and is the kind of player and character you can rely on to get down and dirty in the contest regularly finishing juniors games with double figure clearances.

Can play off HB and HF as well and may get an opportunity as a depth general defender with Docherty likely gone for season 2018 (unless LARS.)

The kind of midfielder that I wouldn’t mind at all if he was available at selection 13, yes his speed is an issue but he seems like a player you can bank on and rely upon to carve out a good AFL career

WHO ELSE: Hunter Clark, Aidan Bonar, Nick Coffield, Lochie O’Brien.

 

[getgaff]

UPDATED 18/11


PICK 11: GWS / JACK HIGGINS (OAKLEIGH CHARGERS/ VM)

HEIGHT, WEIGHT: 178 cm, 77 kg
DATE OF BIRTH: 19/03/1999
PROJECTED DRAFT RANGE: 1st ROUND
BEST POSITION: Small forward
SIMILAR TO: Toby Greene, Ben Ainsworth

WHY: Higgins lands in GWS’s lap and they will be like the cat who got the cream here.

Having passed on Ben Ainsworth in there 2016 draft and after the departures of Devon Smith and Stevie J, plus Brett Deledio getting to the end of his career than the small forward and pressure of Higgins would be ideal.

I’m an unashamed fan of Higgins, have been tracking his progress for West Coast’s first round pick for months now. Jack is a naturally gifted player who wants to create and be dangerous a lot like Ainsworth from the 2016 draft.

His one touch game and clean hands inside 50 are exciting to watch. Not only has an appetite for the ball and the contest but has great composure and footy smarts when he gets it.

WHO ELSE: Ed Richards, Sam Hayes, Lochie O’Brien, Jarrod Brander.


PICK 12: ADELAIDE / AIDEN BONAR (HAILEBURY COLLEGE/ DANDENONG STINGRAYS)

HEIGHT, WEIGHT: 188 cm, 86 kg
DATE OF BIRTH: 08/03/1999
PROJECTED DRAFT RANGE: 1st ROUND
BEST POSITION: General forward
SIMILAR TO: Jake Stringer

WHY: Comparisons are there with Stringer in more ways than one. Just like Stringer had a bad leg break before he was drafted, Bonar has gone through knee reconstructions. Massive upside in him.

You add Bonar at Adelaide and he has the potential to be that added star midfield power that they might be chasing. With Naughton available that is also tempting however I think in Kelly who does play taller, Keath and possibly even Mitch McGovern they have some depth to replace Lever.

Can play forward or midfield at the next level, more likely to begin as a forward however with Adelaide having 3 fairly set taller forwards in Walker, Lynch and Jenkins they m,ay have the luxury of developing him well in the SANFL before throwing him in.

WHO ELSE: Aaron Naughton, Charlie Constable, Hunter Clark, Jarrod Brander.


PICK 13: WEST COAST / OSCAR ALLEN

HEIGHT, WEIGHT: 191 cm, 82 kg
DATE OF BIRTH: 19/03/1999
PROJECTED DRAFT RANGE: 1st to 2nd ROUND (early)
BEST POSITION: General forward
SIMILAR TO: Tom Lynch (Adelaide)


PICK 14: SYDNEY / LOCHIE O’BRIEN (BENDIGO PIONEERS/ VC)

HEIGHT, WEIGHT: 184 cm, 75 kg
DATE OF BIRTH: 18/09/1999
PROJECTED DRAFT RANGE: 1st ROUND
BEST POSITION: Outside mid/ General defender
SIMILAR TO: Andrew Gaff

WHY: There inside midfield strength is much talked about but if you go back to as far as season 2016 they were outrun on the outside in wo finals by GWS and the Bulldogs.

Addressed it somewhat with Florent last year but one player won't change it all so I;ve added O'Brien to their outside midfield, run and carry stocks here with the classy O'Brien.

There is a lot of Gaff in his play. Calm, composed and delivers when he gets the ball, breaks lines and makes space. With McVeigh nearing the end he could become that defesnive general off HB with neat skills as well.

WHO ELSE: Aaron Naughton, Jarrad Brander, Nathan Murphy, Aidan Bonar, Patrick Naish, Lachlan Fogarty.


PICK 15: BRISBANE: NATHAN MURPHY (BRIGHTON GRAMMAR/ SANDRINGHAM DRAGONS)

HEIGHT, WEIGHT: 188 cm, 84 kg.
DATE OF BIRTH: 15/12/1999
PROJECTED DRAFT RANGE: 1st to 2nd ROUND
BEST POSITION: General Defender/ Medium Utility
SIMILAR TO: James Sicily

WHY: Brisbane get a bit of a jack of many trades in Murphy.

Started the season playing more APS footy for Brighton as he decided which sport to choose between football and cricket, before being drafted into the Dragons side later in the year and was a steady hand playing as a third tall down back initially but also went forward with effect.

Has a good mix of attack and defense in the back half which sees him float across and intercept play or shut down on a dangerous forward. Think Murphy provides a good balance to the 2016 draft crop of HB’s than Brisbane have like Berry, Witherden, and Cox.

WHO ELSE: Lochie O'Brien, Joel Garner, Oscar Allen.


PICK 16: WESTERN BULLDOGS – AARON NAUGHTON (PEEL THUNDER/ WA)

HEIGHT, WEIGHT: 194 cm, 85 kg
DATE OF BIRTH: 30/11/1999
PROJECTED DRAFT RANGE: 1st ROUND
BEST POSITION: Key position defender
SIMILAR TO: Jake Lever

WHY: Shore up the back half some more with arguably the best key back in the draft in Naughton.

Not the most damaging tall of the draft but is a dependable player down back who will forge a long career at AFL level i think.

There's a knock on his kick but has worked hard on it with WA coaching staff and it will continue to be modified in an elite environment.

Got some great senior exposure for Peel Thunder in the WAFL after the National Championships and was unlucky to find himself on the outer in the finals series after the Dockers season was over and a number of listed players returned for WAFL finals.

WHO ELSE: Jarrod Brander, Lochie O'Brien, Nathan Murphy, Joel Garner.


PICK 17: RICHMOND / JARROD BRANDER (BENDIGO PIONEERS/ ALLIES)

HEIGHT, WEIGHT: 194 cm, 92 kg
DATE OF BIRTH: 11/02/1999
PROJECTED DRAFT RANGE: 1st ROUND
BEST POSITION: Key Position Player
SIMILAR TO: Cale Hooker

WHY: First they won the flag, than Patrick Naish is still available with a second round pick possibly and to top it off they could walk away with the best KPP in the draft, certainly the most versatile.

Still a lot of time to pass before November 24 but he could go anywhere from pick 6 to Collingwood but I don’t see him getting past Richmond if the stars align for them i.e.: Brander still available and no bid on Naish.

Brander is a strapping lad and could be ready for senior footy early if required. Versatile enough to play KP at either end, his athleticism and pace off the mark make him an enticing prospect.

Can argue he is more suited to a defensive role initially where his pace off the mark and ability to read the flight of the ball stand out and doesn’t look out of place as more of a third tall back who plays attacking.

Originally zoned to GWS after spending the majority of his growing up years in NSW before moving to boarding school ay Geelong Grammar I can’t see a move away from home being an issue for Brander.

WHO ELSE: Sam Hayes, Oscar Allen, Noah Balta.


PICK 18: BRISBANE – LACHLAN FOGARTY (WESTERN JETS / VM)
HEIGHT, WEIGHT: 179 cm, 75 kg.
DATE OF BIRTH: 01/04/1999
PROJECTED DRAFT RANGE: 1st to 2nd ROUND
BEST POSITION: Balanced Midfielder
SIMILAR TO: Callum Brown

WHY: Davies Uniacke, Murphy, L. Fogarty and a likely matched bid for Ballenden inside the top 30 is a good outcome for Brisbane.

They've added LDU to the midfield so far but Lachie Fogarty is more balanced in the midfield than Luke in my opinon. Plays well outside and inside where he regularly leads his teams tackle counts and is prone to double figure numbers there.

Loves a contest and a tackle despite being a lighter weight player while still being able to accumulate the ball.

The concern is his size and probably inability to step straight into that role against men but if they are willing to let him develop well they should reap great rewards.

WHO ELSE: Patrick Naish, Joel Garner.


PICK 19: GOLD COAST – ED RICHARDS (OAKLEIGH CHARGERS/ VM)

HEIGHT, WEIGHT: 184 cm, 77 kg
DATE OF BIRTH: 03/07/1999
PROJECTED DRAFT RANGE: 1st to 2nd ROUND
BEST POSITION: General Defender/ Outside Midfielder
SIMILAR TO: Bachar Houli

WHY: In Richards they get another Adam Saad type from the back line.

An attacking Richards is an attacking half back with a clean and effective kick from defence. Would more likely begin his career off HB but in time has scope to develop into a outside midfielder where his kick will break lines or be an effective player inside with his clean hands.


WHO ELSE: Lochie Fogarty, Joel Garner, Jarrod Brander.

 

[getgaff]

PICK 20: RICHMOND - SAM HAYES (RUCK / 203 CM, 93 KG / EASTERN RANGES / 09.06.1999)

WHY: Best ruck available. Genuine ruck stocks are fairly bare at Richmond and with an expected bid for Naish in the second round I think Brander, Hayes and Naish inside there first 3 picks is a good outcome and a mix of needs.


PICK 21: WEST COAST - TIM KELLY (INSIDE MID / 183 CM, 83 KG, SOUTH FREMANTLE / 26.07.1994)

WHY: An Ideal midfield inclusion for West Coast and someone that is just ready and raring to go at the next level. Been a strong performer over multiple seasons for South Fremantle in the WAFL and passing on him here would most likely see West Coast miss him altogether.

Would bring much needed senior WAFL experience and a mature body to a midfield that will certainly miss the experience of Mitchell and Priddis in particular in 2018.

They've possibly gone a little bit early but if they wait until there mid 20's pick he may not be available.


PICK 22: BRISBANE ACADEMY selection (GEELONG bid, BRISBANE MATCH) - CONNOR BALLENDEN (KPF, 200 CM, 94 KG / UNI OF QUEENSLAND / 29.03.1999)

WHY: First bid of the 2017 draft here and Brisbane doesn't hesitate to match the bid from Geelong even though it is inside the top 25.

Having recently lost some taller players in Schache (traded to Western Bulldogs) and Michael Close (de-listed, possible re-rookie?). They would hae put a lot of work into him as a junior in preparation for the 2017 draft and will be happy to take him in the early/ mid second round knowing that he has been a more highly touted (top 10) draft prospect in the past years.


PICK 23: GEELONG - NOAH BALTA (KPP / 194 CM, 92 KG / CALDER CANNONS / 23.10.1999)
WHY: First needs based pick ticked off for the Cats. Balta can play tall both ends but with there being a CHF hole at Geelong and Lonergan retiring down back I think Balta's versatility will please Wells and co.


PICK 24: RICHMOND F/S selection (NORTH MELBOURNE bid, RICHMOND match and forfeit next pick) - PATRICK NAISH (MEDIUM FWD - OUTSIDE MID / 181 CM, 69 KG / NORTHERN KNGIHTS / 15.01.1999)

WHY: Firstly why do North bid? Pretty clear that they still have some holes that they want to fill for outside class. Stephenson/ Cerra are handy to bring inside the top 5 but Naish is another classy outside player who can go forward, likely to be where his career begins while he grows into his body, where he reads the play well, crumbs effectively and loves kicking a goal.

So why does Richmond match, well I don;t think it would take a lot of thought to match the bid. Haven;t had a father/ son come through for a few seasons and Naish complements what they already have ob there list well. Might start season 2018 a little behind the tried and true small forwards at Richmond with there pressure but that will give him time to grow into his body and learn what it takes to play against bigger bodies in the VFL.

Think the bid fits about right and will cost Richmond there next pick.


PICK 25: NORTH MELBOURNE - JOEL GARNER (EASTERN RANGES/ VM)

HEIGHT, WEIGHT: 184 cm, 82 kg
DATE OF BIRTH: 21/05/1999
PROJECTED DRAFT RANGE: 1st to 2nd ROUND
BEST POSITION: Balanced midfielder/ General defender
SIMILAR TO: Issac Smith

WHY: After an unsuccesful bid on Naish I’ve gone for some more star factor to the Kangaroos outside stocks in Garner.

Classy with the ball and moves well across the ground I think his best role is as a dashing outside wingman or attacking half back flanker who can lower the eyes and hit a target inside 50.

His midfield work in the stoppages is complimented by making good decisions and efficiently using handball to set up a team mate.


PICK 26: GEELONG - ZAC BAILEY (INSIDE MID / 181 CM, 81 KG / SOUTHERN DISTRICTS / 23.09.1999)

WHY: Gone with the nippy Northern Territory boy Bailey in the knowledge that if Geelong don't move on him now than by the time pick 36 comes around he might be gone.

The Cats like the NT boys and have a tendency to sometimes go early on them if you consider Nakia Cockatoo and Brandon Parfitt. Bailey is most similar to Parfitt in that he has the real burst of speed.

Someone who I wouldn't have minded for West Coast in the 30's and I'll follow his pre season closely to see if he can sneak an early debut as a smaller forward at the feet of Hawkins.


PICK 27: WEST COAST - MATTHEW LING (OUTSIDE MID - DEF / 183CM, 75 KG / GEELONG FALCONS / 21.03.1999)

WHY: Forward, inside mid (ready made), and outside mid with smarts and class is how I've gone for West Coast early.

Ling is a smart footballer who makes good decisions by foot steps well through traffic. Given his more outside game and lighter body his production when it comes to ball winning isn't huge as yet but what he does is very effective.


PICK 28: GWS - RYLEY STODDART (GENERAL DEF / 183 CM, 73 KG / NORTHERN KNIGHTS / 15.10.1999)

WHY: For a talent rich team there's a few draft areas to focus on in the first couple of rounds for GWS.

Nailed the Higgins pick early to relieve the loss of Dev Smith than with another couple of picks in the 20's can look to relieve the pressure of losing Wilson to Fremantle and the retirement of Mumford.

In an ideal world for the Giants someone like Ed Richards would slide but I think they'd settle for Stoddart as well as they look to bolser there general defence/ kicker stocks after the loss of Wilson, which I think is a damaging loss for them, and with Heath Shaw not getting any younger it seems a logical pick here.


PICK 29: GWS - CALLUM COLEMAN - JONES (KEY FWD - RUCK / 200 CM, 98 KG / STURT / 13.06.1999)

WHY: GWS Land the big boy from SA who has slid somehwat. If you look at it as Higgins, Stoddart, CCJ into the list for Smith, Wilson and Mumford I think GWS can be pretty content with that outcome.

With Lobb preferring a solo ruck role, Dawson Simpson and even Keeffe on the list they have the time and resources to let Coleman Jones ply his ruck trade in the NEAFL and learn his forward craft of Patton.

Spargo was a strong consideration here who'd make an effective small forward one-two punch with Toby Greene but I think CCJ meets more of a need.


PICK 30: MELBOURNE - JAMES WORPEL (INSIDE MID / 185 CM, 84 KG / GEELONG FALCONS / 24.01.1999)

WHY: Best available inside midfielder here for Melbourne thinking about the future transition out of Nathan Jones and Jordan Lewis.

Ferocious competitor he doesn't accumulate the ball in high numbers consistently but his contest work offensively and defesnively tackling is very impressive, crashing in hard and often walking away from a game with battle scars similar to Joel Selwood.

For a relatively set in stone inside midfielder his ability to hit the scoreboard and generate scoring opportunities is also good kicking 11 goals in 16 games, 2 score involements a game and 12 assists. In his bottom age year he played forward more, kicking vital goals and winning crucial one on ones.

His kicking style doesn't allow for much of an outside game but at the highest level his inside midfield work will stack up with the better inside midfield players in the competition. To thrive at the next level he will need to work on the mechanics and efficiency of his kick but that can be ironed out with full time practice at an elite level.


PICK 31: CARLTON - GRYAN MIERS (SMALL FWD / 177 CM, 73 KG / GEELONG FALCONS / 30.03.1999)

WHY: Having earlier passed on Higgins to bring in the bullocking Constable I couldn't bypass Miers for Carlton here.

Very similar to Dahlhaus in the way he plays and not just because of the dreadlocks. Brings a lot of energy to a team and tackling pressure. Get him the ball because he loves to be involved in the game.

Stand out game in the TAC Cup Grand Final kicking 7 goals and winning the B.O.G. Medal in Geelong Falcons flag. Again a player I'd love to be in West Coast's thoughts.

Even as high as 21 if Hunter Clark doesn't go to plan.


PICK 32: MELBOURNE - JACK PETRUCELLE (OUTSIDE MID - HALF FWD / 183 CM, 74 KG / NORTHERN KNIGHTS / 12.04.1999)

WHY: Melbourne continue and would have a good list of players on there whiteboards to consider before Round 2 finishes.

Another midfield type but very different to Worpel in that he adds some real pace on the outside.

With his pace he can become a high impact per possession gained player but with greater body size will need to become more involved in games.


PICK 33: WEST COAST - CHARLIE SPARGO (SMALL FWD / 172 CM, 70 KG / MURRAY BUSHRANGERS / 25.11.1999)

WHY: A small forward is required before the end of the second round in my opinion and Spargo ticks that box.

Has slid down the order due to not being able to play any TAC Cup footy in 2017 and only managing the one game for the Allies so he is largely getting drafted on the potential he showed in his under age year.

A nippy small forward with a bit of spunk and aggression to his game he can be likened to Ballantyne and Greene with his ability to get under his opponenet's skin.

Speaking of GWS it wouldn't surprise me Charlie landed at there combination of picks in the 20's, especially if they bypass on Jack Higgins early.

A former GWS academy product that lost his Academy zone after the re-structuring, I don't see there being a large "go home" factor yet given he spent time playing with the Bushrangers al


PICK 34: SYDNEY - SAM TAYLOR (KEY DEFEDNER / 196 CM, 87 KG / SWAN DISTRICTS / 05/05/1999)



PICK 35: ST. KILDA - DYLAN MOORE (SMALL FWD - OUTSIDE MID / 175 CM, 66 KG / EASTERN RANGES / 04.08.1999)

WHY: They've missed out on Miers and Spargo but will settle for Dylan Moore.

Can see him beginning his career as more of a small forward who can be damaging in the midfield largely due to his smaller size.

Playing him forward allows for players like Gresham and Billings to be used more in the midfield.

Long term and with his endurance he will add some outside class with Stephenson to the Saints midfield.


PICK 36: GEELONG - TOBY WOOLLER (TALL FWD - KEY FWD / 193 CM, 90 KG / OAKLEIGH CHARGERS / 16.03.1999)

WHY: How Wooller fits in at the next level is the biggest question mark?

Undersized as a key position forward but has the powerful body and game nous to beat better credentialed defenders. One thing is for sure is that he fits Geelong's needs to a tee and they'd love to have the grandson of premiership captain Fred on board.

Led the Chargers well at TAC Cup level, winning the club best and fairest and proving he could be effective as a key forward and win his own ball in the midfield averaging 18 touches, 6 marks, 5 tackles, 2 clearances, 3 goals and fractionally more than 3 inside 50's per game. A much bigger output than his 2016 season in key stats except for marks where he average half a mark a game more.

Natural competitor and leader who will improve in a professional environment.


PICK 37: MELBOURNE - HAYDEN McLEAN (KEY FWD / 196 CM, 93 KG / SANDRINGHAM DRAGONS / 20.01.1999)

WHY: Having just missed Wooler I'll go after the big fella McLean here who was a proven under sized ruck at TAC Cup level in 2017 averaging 13 H/O's a game. Whether he can replicate that ability to ruck at the next level, most likely VFL for a while firstly, will be a wait and see.

Led the Dragons to a GF appearance in 2017 and was an influential player for them on the night particularly early in the piece than back up that performance with 4 goals in the All Stars game on AFL Grand Final Day.

Battled through glandular fever in 2017 which is a great effort to keep turning up week in, week out when you may be the feeling the symptoms of lethargy and fatigue.

In terms of needs for Melbourne I think they have the resources to be able to develop his game at Casey but has the talent and work ethic to become a good focal point out of defence as a CHF in time.


PICK 38: WEST COAST - BRANDON STARCEVICH (INSIDE MIDFIELDER / 186 CM, 84 KG / EAST PERTH / 24.07.1999)

 

[getgaff]

PICK 39: COLLINGWOOD - HARRISON PETTY (KEY DEFENDER / 195 CM, 82 KG / NORWOOD / 12.11.1999)

WHY: The rock of the South Australian defence at the Under 18 Championships and was duly rewarded with selection in the All Australian team and was named SA's MVP over the Champs.

Originally considered to be more of a forward, he moved back in 2017 and never looked back. Reads the game well and his intercept marking is a strong suit. His kicking is improving and his game as a whole has improved through being able to board at Reservoir and play at Norwood.


PICK 40: ADELAIDE - ANDREW McPHERSON (MEDIUM DEF / 186 CM, 79 KG / WOODVILLE WEST TORRENS / 05.03.1999)

WHY: Seen a number of phantom drafts with West Coast drafting McPherson at 38 which is fair enough because he is a quality half back who would be ranked higher if not for an injury interrupted 2017 season but I'm not so sure it is a list need ahead of midfielders and small forwards.

Similar to a Witherden from the 2016 draft whose draft stocks slid because of a bad leg injury McPherson suffered quad and hammy injuries, only playing a handful of colts games for W.W.T before re-injuring his hamstring in the Under 18 Grand Final again. Prototype for the modern day rebound half back he reads the play well, has good skills and good endurance.

In the mix to replace Brodie Smith in 2018 if he ends up at the Crows.


PICK 41: GOLD COAST - JORDAN HOULAHAN (MEDIUM FWD / 185 CM, 78 KG / STURT / 19.01.1999)

WHY: Based on talent Houlahan is more of a late first to mid second round select but can present with a demeanour of nonchalance about his play and needs to work harder on his production/ getting involved in the game.

Think as that medium size forward that can play taller with his excellent vertical jump and tendency to want to fly high for marks that the Suns are a good fit for him. Real spark and x factor in his junior career, how it translates into senior footy is a wait and see.


PICK 42: FREMANTLE - HUGH DIXON (TALL FWD / 195 CM, 92 KG / KINGSBOROUGH, TAS / 26.02.1999)

WHY: Compliments the Naughton first round draft pick with an athletic taller forward, showing there is plenty of upside left in Dixon

Athletic taller forward who covers the ground well and has scope to play through the midfield potenially in the future. Can see him settling into a 3rd Tall/ CHF role at AFL level but using his ability to cover the ground to it's greatest strength.


PICK 43: HAWTHORN - BRAYDEN AINSWORTH (INSIDE MID / 184 CM, 79 KG / SUBIACO / 21/12/1998)

WHY: High production midfielder who is at the best around the contest and stoppages where he works hard and uses his hands to shoot the ball out effectively. Brings professionalism on and off the field.

Good exposure at WAFL reserves level in 2017 in his first season playing footy in Perth after moving from Country WA where he was playing senior footy as a middle age teen.


PICK 44: ST. KILDA - OSCAR CLAVARINO (KEY DEFENDER / 195 CM, 85 KG / DANEDONG STRINGRAYS / 22.05.1999)

WHY: Clavarino is a tough one to predict where he goes and such has slid a little for some maybe. Along with Petty and Taylor they are the next level of KPD's in the draft behind Naughton and the more physically imposing Brander and Balta.

Good reader of the play which makes him a very effective intercept and rebounding defender. When kicking the ball from defence is a safe kick taker which makes his disposal efficiency numbers better than what they would be if he didn't take the safer option so much.

Still has a lot of work to do on building his body size which obviously didn't get exposed so much at Under 18 and Championship level but against bigger bodies he gets rag dolled like against the Northern Blues in the AFL Academy series.

There are some experts who rate Clavarino much higher and with his disciplined defence, ability to intercept mark, read the play and rebound from the back half that is a fair call, you know what you will get from Oscar and he is reliable.


PICK 45: PORT ADELAIDE - CHARLIE BALARD (TALL UTILITY / 195 CM, 81 KG / STURT / 23.07.1999)



PICK 46: MELBOURNE - BEN PATON (MEDIUM DEF / 186 CM, 78 KG / MURRAY BUSHRANGERS / 19.10.1998)

WHY: Think Paton could turn into another Michael Hibberd type of defender for the Demons in the longer term. Short term will see him build his experience at Casey.

After being more of a forward and mid in his junior career went to the backline as a rebounding defender in 2017 with great success, finishing second in the Bushrangers B & F, playing all games in the Champs for VC and being named in the All Australian team after the Championships.


PICK 47: GWS ACADEMY selection (ESSENDON bid, GWS MATCH) - NICHOLAS SHIPLEY (INSIDE MID / 188 CM, 93 KG, ST. GEORGE DRAGONS - GWS ACADEMY / 25.06.1999)

WHY: Powerful bodied midfielder who is still relatively new to the game having crossed from age soccer at the age of 15.

Uses his superior size to a lot of his opponents to great effect whether it's bursting through the midfield pack, resting forward or using his speed and endurance to be a damaging player off half back.

Will go down as the first Academy selection out of the Western Sydney area after the Giants have picked apart NSW Country in the past few seasons.


PICK 48: ESSENDON - WILL WALKER (HALF FWD - MIDFIELD / 186 CM, 78 KG / SANDRINGHAM DRAGONS / 30/03/1999)

WHY: After a unsuccessful bid on Shipley I think it's clear that I wanted to add some midfield grunt to the Bombers with there first pick.

Not as strong with his contested ball winning number as Shipley but he is still strong in the contest with his speed and ability to dart out of traffic and get the ball forward.

Still raw with plenty of upside. scope for learning and understanding the game craft as like Shipley he came from a Soccer back ground.

As he understands the game more his contested ball numbers will improve after going at about 40% contested VS uncontested in 2017.


PICK 49: PORT ADELAIDE - ALEX MARTINI (SMALL DEF / 181 CM, 77 KG / GLENELG / 30.03.1999)

WHY: A bit of an Impey replacement numerically into the Port team.

Provides a lot of run off HB and possibly allows other drfatee McPherson to be more of a midfielder longer term. Distributes the ball well and makes good decisions.

Great courage and not afraid to stand in a hole in front of a bigger forward.


PICK 50: GOLD COAST - BAILEY FRITSCH (MEDIUM FWD / 187 CM, 80 KG / CASEY SCORPIONS / 06.12.1996)


WHY: With the games experience lost most recently in Ablett, Saad, Matera and still including Prestia and O'Meara I think its important to add some mature experience as well as young talent in the draft.

Ready to play and is versatile in the role he plays in that he can be dangerous a small to medium forward, use his long kick as a line breaker from a wing or a set up player off half back.

Think future team mates Lynch and Wright would enjoy having him delivering the ball to them inside 50.


PICK 51: SYDNEY - KYRON HAYDEN (INSIDE MID / 185 CM, 88 KG / SUBIACO / 06.06.1999

WHY: Originally went with Clavarino here but thought better of it after considering what the Swans like.

Powerfully built midfielder who attacks the ball and contest with vigour akin to Powell Pepper at Port and you can draw a lot of comparisons between the two boys and how they play.

Had a modified 2017 after his 2016 season was wrecked with injuries but was a key player in WA's State Under 18 team, made his senior debut at WAFL level for Subiaco which is no easy task given the strength in that side and tested well in the standing and vertical jumps in particular at the combine.

Won't be as ready made as Powell Pepper was in 2017 but with time I'm sure he can developed into a strong presence at the contest for Sydney.


PICK 52: BRISBANE - TOM McCARTIN (TALL FWD / 193 CM, 84 KG / GEELONG FALCONS / 30.12.1999)

WHY: Tall forward in the mould of Tom Lynch at Adelaide.

Different player to brother Paddy at St. Kilda and relise more on his athleticism and ability to move over the ground than being a more power forward. Compared with Paddy in that there are both well sized, have strong hands and play the game without fear.

For Brisbane Tom is a different type of forward to what they already have because of that athletic ability, Hipwood is very gifted athletically but with his height is better suited to a key posiiton role in the future and not a third tall.

One of the youngest in the draft crop due to his birthday being on the 30th of December and will still complete Year 12 studies in Victoria next year. That shouldn't disturb a club from drafting him however when you look at in a long term perspective.

McCartin compliments the KPP Academy picks of Ballenden and the upcoming Payne as well.


PICK 53: RICHMOND - JACKSON ROSS (OUTSIDE MID / 192 CM, 75 KG / EASTERN RANGES / 22.06.1999)

WHY: Ross is a bit of a slider for me largely because of his lack of size and thus inconsistency and he still has a bit to learn in games of game awareness which is to be expected given he has only played the game competitively for two seasons, was previously an elite tennis player.

The upside in this is his scope for improvement especially in a professional environment and for a player who hasn't been brought up in the game his kicking efficiency is terrific, highlighted by a 29/30 result in the kicking test at the combine and a perfect score of 30 in the goal kicking test.

Will be a project player who spends plenty of time in the seconds wherever he goes but the scope for upside in a professional environment is huge.


PICK 54: BRISBANE ACADEMY selection (GOLD COAST bid, BRISBANE MATCH) - JACK PAYNE (KEY DEFENDER / 196 CM, 96 KG / NOOSA - BRISBANE ACADEMY / 15.10.1999)

WHY: Along with Harris Andrews should be part of the Brisbane Lions spine for the next decade.

Has a bit to learn in terms of his defensive positioning which will be developed well at the elite level and even though they play different roles it may be a role where Luke Hodge can take the young fella under his wing a bit.

Has the power to match the big forwards but the speed and nous at ground level to be effective as well. For a young key defender where their disposal by foot can cause some fans to cover there eyes and hope for the best he seems to be a good kick as well, registering 29/30 in the field kicking test at the combine.

PICK 55: GOLD COAST - BRODY MIHOCHECK (KEY DEFENDER / 192 CM, 97 KG / PORT MELBOURNE, VFL)



PICK 56: RICHMOND - NATHAN KREUGER (TALL FWD / 196 CM, 89 KG / SOUTH ADELAIDE / 25.06.1999)

WHY: An athletically gifted tall at either end, I probably see him more as a forward, he adds a different dimension to the Tigers tall draft with Brander and Hayes drafted already.

Still raw and needs to put some size on but I think if played in his right position and allowed to use his running power to effect, best used as a high half fwd/ 3rd tall, he can be very effective at AFL level.

 

[getgaff]

PICK 57: COLLINGWOOD - BRENT DANIELS (SMALL FWD / 170 CM, 70 KG / BENDIGO PIONEERS / 09.03.1999)

WHY: Daniels is in the mould of a Jarryd Blair but with more strings to his bow. Only short and a little nuggety but was one of the better ball users in the TAC Cup.

His speed and agility make him an enticing prospect both mid and forward but his goal sense, x factor and ability to bring pressure inside 50 make him stand out.


PICK 58: GEELONG - LIAM RYAN ( SMALL FWD / 179 CM, 71 KG / SUABIACO / 2.10.1996)

WHY: Mature age prospect out of the WAFL who was overlooked in the 2016 draft but anpther Bernie Nayloe leading goal kicker win and 70 plus goals for the season have made him a draft prospect again.

Think he fits the Cats needs pretty well but right now I'm a little bit of a skeptic on if he will make it at the next level. Needs to work on the defensive side to his game and not just rely on his offensive x factor but in the 4th round it's worth the punt.


PICK 59: GOLD COAST MATCH PORT ADELAIDE BID - BRYADEN CROSSLEY (RUCK / 198 CM, 101 KG / GOLD COAST NEAFL / 16.08.1999)

WHY: No hesitation for the Suns to draft the Shane Mumford clone in Crossley. Physically imposing at ruck contests and around the ground with repeat efforts the Suns get a beauty here.

Won All Australian honours at the carnival as the only player to average over 20 H/O's and 5 clearances a game.

His forward craft still lacks a fair bit so that will need to be worked on along with his agility and leap at ruck contest where he was beaten by craftier more athletic ruckman at NEAFL level.


PICK 60: PORT ADELAIDE- BEN MILLER (KPP - RUCK / 196 CM, 93 KG / SUBIACO / 31.08.1999)

WHY: Miller's strength's are his athleticism, versatility and speed for a big man proven well by his tests at the NAB Draft Combine.

Blessed with a terrific leap and penetrating kick the weakness as with a lot of young talls is his inconsistency and lack of a tank yet, something that will improve hand in hand with better endurance.


PICK 61: FREMANTLE- JAKE PATMORE (HALF BACK - OUTSIDE MID / 181 CM, 72 KG / CLAREMONT / 29.01.1999)

WHY: Patmore is a more outside balanced midfielder who shed 10 kg over the season to transform his game from 2016 where he would be more flash in the pan to a consistent 2017 where he averaged nearly 30 touches a game in the Colts for Claremont.

His speed and agility particularly compared to 2016 Patmore are massive strengths as his been his ability to accumulate the ball in 2017 as a dashing HB and outside midfielder.

His inside game is something to improve on and due to his more fast twitch fibres with speed his endurance isn't as good as it should be.


PICK 62: COLLINGWOOD - TYLER KEITEL

WHY:


PICK 63: PORT ADELAIDE - DOM BARRY (OUTSIDE MID / 180 CM, 76 KG / GLENELG / 07.03.1994)

WHY:


PICK 64: PORT ADELAIDE - ALEX MARTINI (SMALL DEF / 181 CM, 77 KG / GLENELG / 30.03.1999)

WHY:


PICK 65: COLLINGWOOD MATCH NORTH MELBOURNE BID - TYLER BROWN (BALANCED MID / 187 CM, 72 KG / EASTERN RANGES / 09.12.1999)

WHY:


PICK 66: NORTH MELBOURNE - JORDAN JOHNSTON (MEDIUM FWD / 185 CM, 75 KG / GWV REBELS / 09.09.1999)

WHY:


PICK 67: GWS - ETHAN FLOYD (OUTSIDE MID / 180 CM, 71 KG / GEELONG FALCONS / 15.07.1999)

WHY:


PICK 68: FREMANTLE - SCOTT JONES (RUCK / 204 CM, 112 KG / EAST PERTH / 20.05.1995)

WHY:


PICK 69: ESSENDON - MATTHEW DAY (INSIDE MID / 189 CM, 79 KG / OAKLEIGH CHARGERS / 01.04.1999)

WHY:


PICK 70: HAWTHORN- TRENT MYNOTT (BALANCED MID / 185 CM, 75 KG / EASTERN RANGES / 04.10.1999)

WHY:

 

[getgaff]

***RESERVED FOR ROUNDS 5 & LATER****

 

[Beer n Skittles]

I like it, except I'm not sure there is a team in less need of a 190cm half back flanker than Collingwood

 

[St Neil]

There have been some suggestions that Magpies are really keen on Coffield. It appears Saints are as well.

I thought Freo might pick two mids and draft either Brayshaw or Cerra at pick 5. But drafting Fogarty probably means both players slide to pick 7.

Saints would be utterly delighted if this happened.

 

[getgaff]

I like it, except I'm not sure there is a team in less need of a 190cm half back flanker than Collingwood

Agree in part because they have players like Scharenberg, Langdon, Crisp, Maynard etc all around that mark and who all can play similar roles. What stands out for me with Coffield but is his disposal by foot which is where the Magpies are still wanting better options.

Think Coffield is a needs based pick as well but it wouldn't surprise me either if Jarrod Brander or Aaron Naughton were drafted at 6.

 

[getgaff]

There have been some suggestions that Magpies are really keen on Coffield. It appears Saints are as well.

I thought Freo might pick two mids and draft either Brayshaw or Cerra at pick 5. But drafting Fogarty probably means both players slide to pick 7.

Saints would be utterly delighted if this happened.

Only suspicions that i've read but you could be on the money with AC or AB to the Dockers at pick 5 as well. 1 thing they definitely shouldn't do is draft Naughton there but i think.

 

[Danger in Texas]

Can’t see us going with Naughton or Brander, if that’s who you have us picking. We need mids.

Clark or Constable will do

 

[cooperg]

Great work!

 

[Cobbler]

I think you have the top 5 on the money.

 

[Blue_Fusion]

Very hard to see Carlton picking up Jack Higgins with #10 if they get Rayner with pick #3.

We desperately need mids and whilst Rayner has the potential to move there eventually, we will most likely be going after a player who plays primarily as a mid. Of the players left in your phantom draft, maybe Clarke or Constable, O'Brien would be a bit of a reach.

 

[Kangaroos4eva]

Can't disagree with North rationale and is in line with our board's draft experts, although Dow, Cerra and then Stephenson in that order is the preference.

The lack of class scares me about Stephenson.

 

[getgaff]

Very hard to see Carlton picking up Jack Higgins with #10 if they get Rayner with pick #3.

We desperately need mids and whilst Rayner has the potential to move there eventually, we will most likely be going after a player who plays primarily as a mid. Of the players left in your phantom draft, maybe Clarke or Constable, O'Brien would be a bit of a reach.

Thanks for the feedback Fusion.

Like you said I think Constable is a really good fit especially while Rayner is at HF.

Will probably end up changing things up a bit and GWS get there man Higgins at 11

 

[getgaff]

Can’t see us going with Naughton or Brander, if that’s who you have us picking. We need mids.

Clark or Constable will do

Hunter Clark will somehow mysteriously slide to 13 I think

It’s interesting what you say but. Are you fearful that Sloane might leave at the end of 2018?

Guess with Clark and Constable you are feeling like your short on quality inside mid depth?

 

[getgaff]

I think you have the top 5 on the money.

Your keen on Dow above Rayner/ LDU as well?

 

[Cobbler]

Your keen on Dow above Rayner/ LDU as well?

I just think you have how the top 5 will fall.
I'm actually keen on LDU/Rayner and not keen on Stephenson.
Any of the other 4 I'd be pumped with.

If I could I'd want LDU and Rayner.

Realistically we'll get one of LDU, Rayner and Dow and one of Stephenson, Fogarty, Cerra or Brayshaw.

IMO.

 

[Cobbler]

Your keen on Dow above Rayner/ LDU as well?

I'm keen on one of LDU, Dow or Cerra.
I'd hate to take Rayner at 2 and see those other 3 names fall at 1,3 and 4 and leave us with Fogarty or Stephenson etc.

Want a pure pure mid, so best use pick 2 on that player.

 

[Danger in Texas]

Hunter Clark will somehow mysteriously slide to 13 I think

It’s interesting what you say but. Are you fearful that Sloane might leave at the end of 2018?

Guess with Clark and Constable you are feeling like your short on quality inside mid depth?

Not when Hamish is around... hopefully

Not necessarily, really it’s that we probably need a young, potential gun inside mid on our list in order to not feel the losses of Gibbs and Sloane when they get older. I feel like we’re better served going for KPP talent with pick 39, if anything (someone like Petty would be great if he slides that far, also rate Taylor and Clavarino)

 

[getgaff]

Want a pure pure mid, so best use pick 2 on that player.

Couldn't agree with what you said there any more. Distinctly why I've gone with Dow.

I like Rayner, his a damn exciting player to watch when in form and would bring fans into the new stadium, his a marketing dream but in terms of what is needs based I think Dow ticks the necessary boxes.

 

[getgaff]

Not when Hamish is around... hopefully

Not necessarily, really it’s that we probably need a young, potential gun inside mid on our list in order to not feel the losses of Gibbs and Sloane when they get older. I feel like we’re better served going for KPP talent with pick 39, if anything (someone like Petty would be great if he slides that far, also rate Taylor and Clavarino)

I shudder to think what Rohan O'Brien and the crew would do if players like Clark, Constable and Higgins aren't available.

I'd hedge my bets on it being a tall like Brander or another Gaff type in Lochie O'Brien.

 

[Danger in Texas]

I shudder to think what Rohan O'Brien and the crew would do if players like Clark, Constable and Higgins aren't available.

I'd hedge my bets on it being a tall like Brander or another Gaff type in Lochie O'Brien.

IMO one of those three will definitely be available. All it requires is for one tall to be taken in the top 12, which happens, I reckon

 

[Cobbler]

Couldn't agree with what you said there any more. Distinctly why I've gone with Dow.

I like Rayner, his a damn exciting player to watch when in form and would bring fans into the new stadium, his a marketing dream but in terms of what is needs based I think Dow ticks the necessary boxes.

Who knows how it will play out, but if we do take Rayner at 2 we will be hoping North take Stephenson to give us a chance at Cerra. That's not exactly how you would want to play it unless we view Brayshaw as right up there, then we really can't lose.