Joshen
Norm Smith Medallist
Thought there was no harm in doing a Phantom but knowledge on draftees out of the 1st and 2nd Rounds is limited so I thought I should stick to what I'm confortable with.
First Round:
#1 GC - David Swallow
#2 GC - Harley Bennell
#3 GC - Sam Day
#4 WCE - Andrew Gaff
Very good midfielder with an all round game only bettered by Swallow can step into AFL as soon as next year which is exactly what WCE need to start replenishing their midfield stocks. He can float forward and help out in defence and this versatility has seen his stocks rise and along with showing leadership qualities can see him being part of the WCE side for many years to come.
#5 BRL – Jared Polec
Brisbane needs speed and a pure midfielder that’s why I picked him over Heppell he’s a smart user of the football with good skills. J. Brown once said his favourite person in the team to be delivering the ball him was Rich; with Jared Brisbane will get another midfielder with a long left penetrating kick.
#6 RICH – Dyson Heppell
Richmond is lucky he made it this far could easily be snatched up by WCE or BL. He can play both down back and in the midfielder in a similar role to Deledio and Hodge, another player with a long left boot uses the ball very well and has no real weakness to his game.
#7 GC – Daniel Gorringe
GC should pounce here just to make sure Essendon do not snatch him at their first pick is the second best tall in the draft behind Day and unlike some modern day ruckman his work round the ground is good quite a capable forward and his athleticism is a great asset.
#8 ESS – Shaun Atley
Next best midfielder in the draft he is more of an inside player which Essendon need to assist Jobe but definitely has the scope to play outside as well. Has a quick first step to clear congestion and good hands by no means a one way player with his defensive game strong too.
#9 GC – Josh Caddy
Could have gone to Essendon but think he’ll be picked here instead. An impressive Combine has seen Josh’s stock rise, GC need ready to go players and Caddy fits the bill. Is a strong inside mid with a neat kick, good handball (ranked #1 at combine) and can move forward and kick a goal and unlike the stereotypical inside need is by no means slow.
#10 GC – Billie Smedts
Extremely versatile can play back forward and also through the midfield a true utility type of player. I expect GC to throw him into different roles in his first couple of seasons to help patch up holes while they wait for their less ready-to-go youngsters to develop.
#11 GC – Tom Lynch
Next best KPF has a high upside and is very athletic coming from a basketball background will take his time developing but GC will be patient. For a big man has good ground level skills and don’t be surprised if he creeps even higher top 10 is definitely a possibility.
#12 MEL – Jack Darling
Main weakness at Melbourne is their KPF stocks they obviously have Watts developing but someone else who could play up there will be helpful. Has been regarded as an undersized forward apparently he was not very happy about being labelled “small” I like many others I expect will be very interested to see where he ends up. Main assets are a strong mark and his efforts once the ball hits the deck. Is a slightly risky pick but could turn out a steal.
#13 GC – Kieran Harper
Classy outside mid/HFF with good speed loves to kick a goal and has a good burst of speed. Has been inconsistent this year and has had injury problems too. Needs to find more of the ball but has a real X factor; GC need bums on seats as they are starting up and Harper can provide this.
#14 ADE – Brodie Smith
Is exactly what the Crows need a good clearance player with nice breakaway speed. Can play outside too but will play predominantly inside with his ability to break tackles. Has good hands and can float forward or push back main criticism I have is an occasional dodgy kick and is prone to making a poor decision or two. But adding to the fact that he is a local boy will be very surprised if Adelaide doesn’t take him if he’s available.
#15 GEEL – Cameron Guthrie
Bit of a bolter here he is a versatile mid who is good in the contested ball has a very good defensive game and can see Geelong turning him into the next Cameron Ling under the guidance from the man himself. But like Ling and unlike some taggers will definitely provide be an asset when it’s time to attack. Decision making is good.
#16 PORT – Scott Lycett
Still questioning myself over whether Scott should go here is a local boy which is nice but Port already have a few developing ruckman so it would not surprise me if they passed on him. Having said that is the next best ruck behind Gorringe moves around the ground well and can play forward but if a quality mid slips I would expect them to pick him instead.
#17 NM – Jayden Pitt
The mighty Roos should snatch up Pitt as he is exactly what we need; an outside mid with elite kicking skills. Is a bit on the skinny side so will need time to develop but will be worth it. Has good vision and generally makes the right decision. Hopefully see him in the Royal blue and white next season.
#18 CARL – Matthew Watson
Ready to go KPD pretty much exactly what the Blues need provides run from defence which is always attractive for a big man and has a good long left foot kick. Question mark over his speed and could be exposed on the lead but having him down there will mean Waite is able to play full time forward which I think would be extremely beneficial for the Blues.
#19 HAW – Patrick McCarthy
By acquiring Hale there is only one real gaping hole at Hawthorn and that is the key defensive post and like Watson offers something on the rebound with clean skills. Is a bit skinny so needs to spend the off season in the gym if he wants to start playing as soon as next year which Hawthorn will want (imo).
#20 FREO – Reece Conca
Freo like to go for a local lad and Conca fits the bill has good awareness and can play forward back or in the midfield and should be able to slot into the side somewhere next season. Is a clever player with no real weakness Dockers (can I still call them that) should be happy to get him here.
#21 SYD – Jed Lamb
Chased Sherman hard in trade week and I think Lamb will be a similar player albeit he is predominantly a forward with brief forays into the midfield. But the main think that is attractive (and a negative of Sherman’s) is Jed’s kicking ability 97% at the draft combine; crazy good. Is a quick clean player with a very good shot for goal.
#22 WBD (FS) – Mitch Wallis
Dogs are very lucky with this one absolute steal if he were available to other clubs the whole draft would be different imo. Is a gun contested ball/clearance player offer something on the outside with good skills and pushes forward to kick goals.
#23 GEEL – Dion Prestia
Emma Quayle love child and Geelong should be satisfied if they get him here seems about right. Has X factor which should get the Cattery fired up again after a disappointing couple of months. Powerful through the hips, pacey, good skills and can play inside and outside and push forward. Only question mark is his height 175cm is short for an AFL player but I see no reason why he shouldn’t make it. By no means a replacement for Ablett but I think similar style and along with Varcoe could fill the void quite well.
#24 STK – Ben Jacobs
St Kilda’s window is closing so they need recruits that can play as of next year and improve their depth Jacobs provides this. Has a very good penetrating long kick and provides great rebound from defence hopefully his addition to the team mean Fisher and Gilbert can play more attacking roles similar to what Sam did in the GF. Jacobs reads the play well and is very good offensively lacks a bit on the defence but that will be drilled into him at the Saints.
#25 BRL – Alex Fasolo
Many options for Brisbane here but I really like the look of Fasolo; is a goal kicking mid with good kicking and decision making skills. Maybe a touch on the small side but is a strong overhead mark which is good I see him playing predominantly midfield but rotating with Banfield to play a forward role from time to time. If Brisbane drafts well with players that can step in next year I see no reason why they can’t shoot up the ladder very quickly.
Priority Pick:
#26 WCE – Lucas Cook
He is a mobile tall forward who has very good hands and reads the play well, can take a contested grab and proficient on the lead. Has the versatility to move onto the wing or into the backline if desired. WCE have a few holes in their side (to be expected from a wooden spoon team) and the forward line is definitely one of them. Josh Kennedy is developing nicely but they do not have much else in the way of tall forwards with Hansen, Lynch at the end of their careers, Mitch Brown looking more comfortable in the backline (imo) added to the trading of McKinley (thanks Eagles) obtaining a KPF was a must and to get such a quality one slipping this far they have done very nicely.
Compensation Picks:
# GC – Pass
# GEEL – Pass
# BRL – Josh Green
Brisbane will be very pleased he slipped this far Green is a nuggetty more inside mid who has the skills and speed/agility to play outside. Often pushes forward and gets amongst the goals similar to Fasolo in that he is a bit short but I definitely think he will make it as an AFL player. With Black and Power getting on in years having replacements that can step in as soon as needed will be a focus and Green can certainly add to the Lions new breed of midfielders.
# RICH – Luke Mitchell
After trading out their second best goal kicker for the year in Collins (a meagre 15 goals) the Tigers will be desperate to pick up a forward to assist Coleman medallist J. Riewoldt. Mitchell will provide this as a very tall target (198cm) can play FF or CHF and has potential to be moved into back half if needed. Strengths include; strong contested marking ability, athletic and makes good decisions. Built solidly so should make an impact in his first few years which is good enabling so Hardwick can see how his forward line structure will work with Riewoldt, Griffiths, Mitchell and Vickery all tall.
# NM – Isaac Smith
Has developed into quite a favourite on the North board and after seeing some bursts of brilliance playing at North Ballarat recruiters have taken notice too. Is a skinny kid so has upside and room to develop, with speed and a good left foot kick on him qualities that many clubs are looking for in this draft. Has a real X factor and whenever he’s near the ball something happens personally would not be surprised if he was taken late teens or early twenties. Obviously there’s the VFL connection but would also fit in at North as he is the type of player we desperately need: quick and skilful.
# BRL – Pass
# GC – Pass
Second Round:
#27 BRL – Patrick Karnezis
After 3 mids a KPP was due and I think the forward situation is direr than the backline. On paper it doesn’t seem so bad; Fev and Brown but neither are getting any younger and niggling injuries have begun to catch up on them. To get a tall forward here was necessary and to get one of Patrick’s quality is very nice, he will compliment both Cornelius and when Clarke is playing up there, well. Can play as a focal point or as a third tall. Is a great size with good mobility and football smarts, strong mark and provides defensive pressure very good pick up for Brisbane.
#28 WCE – Jamie Cripps
Is a medium defender who runs into the midfield and occasionally up into the forward line. Has excellent speed and takes the game on with good skills by foot but is accountable to his man and defensively sound. WCE will be attracted to this local boy primarily because of his speed and skills there’s only so many players you can have on the field with poor kicks and the Eagles certainly have a few (imo), coupled with the wide expanses of Patterson’s stadium (still sounds weird) he will be a major asset to the upcoming team. His versatility is also nice is a good reader of the ball so can play where the team needs it most.
#29 RICH – Ben Newton
A lot to like about this young WA boy; can play inside and out but I prefer him outside where he can use is damaging left boot to better effect. Coupled with his ability to take the run and carry and it’s a position which Richmond need more. Has had a few injury concerns but this should not hurt his draft prospects too much. Tigers fans will need to be patient (shouldn’t be a problem for them they’ve been waiting a while) as he will take a couple of years to develop but shouldn’t be a problem as I can’t see Richmond being a force before then.
#30 ESS – Luke Parker
Team orientated inside mid who is good overhead and has elite endurance. He also claims to be “a good leader on the field” which I believe is an underrated trait. Obviously to assist Watson in contested ball situations and Essendon are crying out for mids. Went Parker over Hallahan as I think he is more versatile as he offers more around the ground. Could be picked up a lot earlier and the Dons should be very satisfied if they got him here (may leave an initial bad taste in Luke’s mouth as he and his family are lifelong Carlton fans).
#31 BRL – Mitch Hallahan
Very tough inside mid with a good right boot and again classifies himself as “a leader and team player” proficient tackler and with his goal kicking skill and marking ability means he can play as a hit up forward. Chose Brisbane because as mentioned before midfield generals Black and Power are nearing the end and having another pure inside player means Rich can concentrate on playing outside (I believe suffered this year as was forced to play inside because of injuries) is a ready made player who could play Round 1 if desired.
#32 MELB – Aaron Young
After addressing the KPF need with their first pick I would not be surprised if Melbourne went for a versatile player like Young in this round. Aaron plays as a medium forward/defender but has the pace to play in the midfield as well. Outstanding mark for his size and is an athlete, very aggressive player could see him moulded into a temporary inside mid. Melbourne may again go tall but have quite a few developing players so having a player that can play anywhere on the ground (bar ruck) will be an attractive option.
#33 CARL – Darcy Barden
He is a solidly built tall forward with a good work ethic and has strong hands overhead. Can also play back if required but not the most athletic player and needs to improve speed. Obviously Fevola left a hole in the Carlton forward line and while smalls and the acquisition of Henderson have attempted to patch it up they still need a big target up there. Waite can provide that for now but 2 to 3 years down the track they will need someone to step in. Also being solidly built means Barden can have an influence sooner rather than later again important as Judd is not going to be around forever and they want him to still be at his peak when they go for a premiership tilt.
# 34 PORT – Warrick Andreoli
Quick skilful player who takes the game on and generally makes the right decision. Could very well go 10 places higher so Port are lucky to pick him up here. Can play on the Wing but also potentially rest on the HFF. Port need a couple a quality mids and I think they will get one inside and one outside with these mid range second round picks. Andreoli fits the bill as an outside mid and has good foot skills which are crucial in AFL these days.
Compensation Pick:
#GC - Pass
Second Round:
#35 PORT – George Horlin-Smith
Again went for a local boy which eliminates the go home factor heading into the future. George is a solid utility player with scope to go forward or back but plays predominantly in the midfield as he is very good in the contested situation. After acquiring an outside mid at their last pick getting an inside one here should be priority and Horlin-Smith has proven he can play this role excellently. Coupled with his versatility to play wherever needed makes him a very attractive option even more so due to the new interchange rule.
#36 GEEL – Sebastian Tape
Have it on good authority that Geelong will target a tall defender in this draft (thanks PO) with old stalwarts Milburn and Scarlett nearing the end it will be interesting to see how Key Defenders Lonergan and Taylor cope, especially seeing as there is more than likely going to be more ball coming that way in the years to come. With only Gillies waiting in the wings acquiring a KPD needed to happen and to get one of Tape’s quality in the mid point of the Second Round is nothing short of a steal. He is an athletic tall defender with excellent closing speed. He has good skills and the ability to play on either talls or smalls depending on need. Leadership qualities are already there having captained South Australia in the under-18 championships this year which will only improve when training with the ultra disciplined Geelong side.
#37 HAW – Viv Michie
Viv is a goal kicking midfielder who can play inside but I prefer him as an outside mid as it allows him to use his excellent kicking skills to greater effect. Is a pretty good overhead mark which also allows him to play on either the half forward or half back flank. Is a good get for Hawthorn here as I still believe they need someone who can play on the wing and kicks well, this Michie provides and I can see Roughead and Franklin having a field day solely off the delivery from this young man. Midfield is not as weak as rucks or defence but with the trading in of Hale to assist the ruck division and Gibson to assist the backline coupled with the recruitment of Stratton last year and the anticipation to use their first pick on a Key Defender this year another outside mid is definitely the next most pressing need.
#38 GC – Sam Crocker
GC have used quite a few of their uncontracted player signings on defenders so in the short term they are going to need their midfielders to rest up forward so that they can score goals. (It is not easy to step into AFL football as a full time forward) Sam is a midfielder who is quick and is strong overhead added to his excellent disposal means he can effectively set up goals and also score them himself.
#39 SYD – Alex Johnson
I found it really difficult to select a player to Sydney and eventually settled with Alex because he is a versatile tall who can play forward or back with occasional forays into the midfield. Swans will lose Bradshaw and Goodes in the coming years and will need forwards who can take their positions, (I realise Bradshaw has only been there a year and had an injury riddled season) and down back Bolton will also be finishing up so to acquire a player who can step in at either position will be handy. He has an “outstanding” work rate and a competitive edge his defensive pressure is very strong which is now an expectation as a forward that you are able to provide something once the ball hits the deck.
#40 WBD (FS) – Tom Liberatone
The Dogs finish up their mini-drafting coup by acquiring son of Brownlow Medal winning father Anthony. If Tom was fair game you would expect to see him up there in the late first round. He is taller than his Dad but is also an inside mid machine racking up tackles and also getting a lot of ball himself. Has a reasonable outside game as well and could play for the Dogs from round 1.
#41 CARL – Myles Sewell
The 2009 J.J. Liston Medallist will be drafted this year the question is where? Due to Barlow’s success last year one would expect it to be sooner rather than later. Carlton do not have a pick until #67 and I do not think Sewell will last till then so I believe they will select him prematurely. Myles is a midfielder who accumulates the ball but does not hesitate to go get it himself. He is a smart player but doesn’t have the greatest kick. Carlton might go mature here as with the retirement of Hadley and the inability of McLean to get on the park Judd still needs help in the clinches and if the Blues think their premiership window is opening they will want players that can have an impact from day 1.
#42 STK – Daniel Farmer
Daniel is a quick HFF who can also push into the midfield, he is very much an outside player and he has a good kick makes good decisions and marks well. Again I tried to pick a player who will slot into the Saints side next year and add something to their forward line. Having another target up there who will score and create goals and should be an asset in 2011 and beyond.
#43 FREO – Kieran Butcher
Went for another local boy this time U18 WA captain Butcher; he is a strong inside midfielder who is very good at clearances is a hard worker and will always put the team before himself. Kicking and speed he will need to work on but they are not huge deficiencies in his game, he can play in the forward half and knows where the goals are. Freo are well stocked in outside mids and I think another inside player will complement them nicely. Again is ready made and could slot straight into the side if needed/desired.
Criticise at will.
First Round:
#1 GC - David Swallow
#2 GC - Harley Bennell
#3 GC - Sam Day
#4 WCE - Andrew Gaff
Very good midfielder with an all round game only bettered by Swallow can step into AFL as soon as next year which is exactly what WCE need to start replenishing their midfield stocks. He can float forward and help out in defence and this versatility has seen his stocks rise and along with showing leadership qualities can see him being part of the WCE side for many years to come.
#5 BRL – Jared Polec
Brisbane needs speed and a pure midfielder that’s why I picked him over Heppell he’s a smart user of the football with good skills. J. Brown once said his favourite person in the team to be delivering the ball him was Rich; with Jared Brisbane will get another midfielder with a long left penetrating kick.
#6 RICH – Dyson Heppell
Richmond is lucky he made it this far could easily be snatched up by WCE or BL. He can play both down back and in the midfielder in a similar role to Deledio and Hodge, another player with a long left boot uses the ball very well and has no real weakness to his game.
#7 GC – Daniel Gorringe
GC should pounce here just to make sure Essendon do not snatch him at their first pick is the second best tall in the draft behind Day and unlike some modern day ruckman his work round the ground is good quite a capable forward and his athleticism is a great asset.
#8 ESS – Shaun Atley
Next best midfielder in the draft he is more of an inside player which Essendon need to assist Jobe but definitely has the scope to play outside as well. Has a quick first step to clear congestion and good hands by no means a one way player with his defensive game strong too.
#9 GC – Josh Caddy
Could have gone to Essendon but think he’ll be picked here instead. An impressive Combine has seen Josh’s stock rise, GC need ready to go players and Caddy fits the bill. Is a strong inside mid with a neat kick, good handball (ranked #1 at combine) and can move forward and kick a goal and unlike the stereotypical inside need is by no means slow.
#10 GC – Billie Smedts
Extremely versatile can play back forward and also through the midfield a true utility type of player. I expect GC to throw him into different roles in his first couple of seasons to help patch up holes while they wait for their less ready-to-go youngsters to develop.
#11 GC – Tom Lynch
Next best KPF has a high upside and is very athletic coming from a basketball background will take his time developing but GC will be patient. For a big man has good ground level skills and don’t be surprised if he creeps even higher top 10 is definitely a possibility.
#12 MEL – Jack Darling
Main weakness at Melbourne is their KPF stocks they obviously have Watts developing but someone else who could play up there will be helpful. Has been regarded as an undersized forward apparently he was not very happy about being labelled “small” I like many others I expect will be very interested to see where he ends up. Main assets are a strong mark and his efforts once the ball hits the deck. Is a slightly risky pick but could turn out a steal.
#13 GC – Kieran Harper
Classy outside mid/HFF with good speed loves to kick a goal and has a good burst of speed. Has been inconsistent this year and has had injury problems too. Needs to find more of the ball but has a real X factor; GC need bums on seats as they are starting up and Harper can provide this.
#14 ADE – Brodie Smith
Is exactly what the Crows need a good clearance player with nice breakaway speed. Can play outside too but will play predominantly inside with his ability to break tackles. Has good hands and can float forward or push back main criticism I have is an occasional dodgy kick and is prone to making a poor decision or two. But adding to the fact that he is a local boy will be very surprised if Adelaide doesn’t take him if he’s available.
#15 GEEL – Cameron Guthrie
Bit of a bolter here he is a versatile mid who is good in the contested ball has a very good defensive game and can see Geelong turning him into the next Cameron Ling under the guidance from the man himself. But like Ling and unlike some taggers will definitely provide be an asset when it’s time to attack. Decision making is good.
#16 PORT – Scott Lycett
Still questioning myself over whether Scott should go here is a local boy which is nice but Port already have a few developing ruckman so it would not surprise me if they passed on him. Having said that is the next best ruck behind Gorringe moves around the ground well and can play forward but if a quality mid slips I would expect them to pick him instead.
#17 NM – Jayden Pitt
The mighty Roos should snatch up Pitt as he is exactly what we need; an outside mid with elite kicking skills. Is a bit on the skinny side so will need time to develop but will be worth it. Has good vision and generally makes the right decision. Hopefully see him in the Royal blue and white next season.
#18 CARL – Matthew Watson
Ready to go KPD pretty much exactly what the Blues need provides run from defence which is always attractive for a big man and has a good long left foot kick. Question mark over his speed and could be exposed on the lead but having him down there will mean Waite is able to play full time forward which I think would be extremely beneficial for the Blues.
#19 HAW – Patrick McCarthy
By acquiring Hale there is only one real gaping hole at Hawthorn and that is the key defensive post and like Watson offers something on the rebound with clean skills. Is a bit skinny so needs to spend the off season in the gym if he wants to start playing as soon as next year which Hawthorn will want (imo).
#20 FREO – Reece Conca
Freo like to go for a local lad and Conca fits the bill has good awareness and can play forward back or in the midfield and should be able to slot into the side somewhere next season. Is a clever player with no real weakness Dockers (can I still call them that) should be happy to get him here.
#21 SYD – Jed Lamb
Chased Sherman hard in trade week and I think Lamb will be a similar player albeit he is predominantly a forward with brief forays into the midfield. But the main think that is attractive (and a negative of Sherman’s) is Jed’s kicking ability 97% at the draft combine; crazy good. Is a quick clean player with a very good shot for goal.
#22 WBD (FS) – Mitch Wallis
Dogs are very lucky with this one absolute steal if he were available to other clubs the whole draft would be different imo. Is a gun contested ball/clearance player offer something on the outside with good skills and pushes forward to kick goals.
#23 GEEL – Dion Prestia
Emma Quayle love child and Geelong should be satisfied if they get him here seems about right. Has X factor which should get the Cattery fired up again after a disappointing couple of months. Powerful through the hips, pacey, good skills and can play inside and outside and push forward. Only question mark is his height 175cm is short for an AFL player but I see no reason why he shouldn’t make it. By no means a replacement for Ablett but I think similar style and along with Varcoe could fill the void quite well.
#24 STK – Ben Jacobs
St Kilda’s window is closing so they need recruits that can play as of next year and improve their depth Jacobs provides this. Has a very good penetrating long kick and provides great rebound from defence hopefully his addition to the team mean Fisher and Gilbert can play more attacking roles similar to what Sam did in the GF. Jacobs reads the play well and is very good offensively lacks a bit on the defence but that will be drilled into him at the Saints.
#25 BRL – Alex Fasolo
Many options for Brisbane here but I really like the look of Fasolo; is a goal kicking mid with good kicking and decision making skills. Maybe a touch on the small side but is a strong overhead mark which is good I see him playing predominantly midfield but rotating with Banfield to play a forward role from time to time. If Brisbane drafts well with players that can step in next year I see no reason why they can’t shoot up the ladder very quickly.
Priority Pick:
#26 WCE – Lucas Cook
He is a mobile tall forward who has very good hands and reads the play well, can take a contested grab and proficient on the lead. Has the versatility to move onto the wing or into the backline if desired. WCE have a few holes in their side (to be expected from a wooden spoon team) and the forward line is definitely one of them. Josh Kennedy is developing nicely but they do not have much else in the way of tall forwards with Hansen, Lynch at the end of their careers, Mitch Brown looking more comfortable in the backline (imo) added to the trading of McKinley (thanks Eagles) obtaining a KPF was a must and to get such a quality one slipping this far they have done very nicely.
Compensation Picks:
# GC – Pass
# GEEL – Pass
# BRL – Josh Green
Brisbane will be very pleased he slipped this far Green is a nuggetty more inside mid who has the skills and speed/agility to play outside. Often pushes forward and gets amongst the goals similar to Fasolo in that he is a bit short but I definitely think he will make it as an AFL player. With Black and Power getting on in years having replacements that can step in as soon as needed will be a focus and Green can certainly add to the Lions new breed of midfielders.
# RICH – Luke Mitchell
After trading out their second best goal kicker for the year in Collins (a meagre 15 goals) the Tigers will be desperate to pick up a forward to assist Coleman medallist J. Riewoldt. Mitchell will provide this as a very tall target (198cm) can play FF or CHF and has potential to be moved into back half if needed. Strengths include; strong contested marking ability, athletic and makes good decisions. Built solidly so should make an impact in his first few years which is good enabling so Hardwick can see how his forward line structure will work with Riewoldt, Griffiths, Mitchell and Vickery all tall.
# NM – Isaac Smith
Has developed into quite a favourite on the North board and after seeing some bursts of brilliance playing at North Ballarat recruiters have taken notice too. Is a skinny kid so has upside and room to develop, with speed and a good left foot kick on him qualities that many clubs are looking for in this draft. Has a real X factor and whenever he’s near the ball something happens personally would not be surprised if he was taken late teens or early twenties. Obviously there’s the VFL connection but would also fit in at North as he is the type of player we desperately need: quick and skilful.
# BRL – Pass
# GC – Pass
Second Round:
#27 BRL – Patrick Karnezis
After 3 mids a KPP was due and I think the forward situation is direr than the backline. On paper it doesn’t seem so bad; Fev and Brown but neither are getting any younger and niggling injuries have begun to catch up on them. To get a tall forward here was necessary and to get one of Patrick’s quality is very nice, he will compliment both Cornelius and when Clarke is playing up there, well. Can play as a focal point or as a third tall. Is a great size with good mobility and football smarts, strong mark and provides defensive pressure very good pick up for Brisbane.
#28 WCE – Jamie Cripps
Is a medium defender who runs into the midfield and occasionally up into the forward line. Has excellent speed and takes the game on with good skills by foot but is accountable to his man and defensively sound. WCE will be attracted to this local boy primarily because of his speed and skills there’s only so many players you can have on the field with poor kicks and the Eagles certainly have a few (imo), coupled with the wide expanses of Patterson’s stadium (still sounds weird) he will be a major asset to the upcoming team. His versatility is also nice is a good reader of the ball so can play where the team needs it most.
#29 RICH – Ben Newton
A lot to like about this young WA boy; can play inside and out but I prefer him outside where he can use is damaging left boot to better effect. Coupled with his ability to take the run and carry and it’s a position which Richmond need more. Has had a few injury concerns but this should not hurt his draft prospects too much. Tigers fans will need to be patient (shouldn’t be a problem for them they’ve been waiting a while) as he will take a couple of years to develop but shouldn’t be a problem as I can’t see Richmond being a force before then.
#30 ESS – Luke Parker
Team orientated inside mid who is good overhead and has elite endurance. He also claims to be “a good leader on the field” which I believe is an underrated trait. Obviously to assist Watson in contested ball situations and Essendon are crying out for mids. Went Parker over Hallahan as I think he is more versatile as he offers more around the ground. Could be picked up a lot earlier and the Dons should be very satisfied if they got him here (may leave an initial bad taste in Luke’s mouth as he and his family are lifelong Carlton fans).
#31 BRL – Mitch Hallahan
Very tough inside mid with a good right boot and again classifies himself as “a leader and team player” proficient tackler and with his goal kicking skill and marking ability means he can play as a hit up forward. Chose Brisbane because as mentioned before midfield generals Black and Power are nearing the end and having another pure inside player means Rich can concentrate on playing outside (I believe suffered this year as was forced to play inside because of injuries) is a ready made player who could play Round 1 if desired.
#32 MELB – Aaron Young
After addressing the KPF need with their first pick I would not be surprised if Melbourne went for a versatile player like Young in this round. Aaron plays as a medium forward/defender but has the pace to play in the midfield as well. Outstanding mark for his size and is an athlete, very aggressive player could see him moulded into a temporary inside mid. Melbourne may again go tall but have quite a few developing players so having a player that can play anywhere on the ground (bar ruck) will be an attractive option.
#33 CARL – Darcy Barden
He is a solidly built tall forward with a good work ethic and has strong hands overhead. Can also play back if required but not the most athletic player and needs to improve speed. Obviously Fevola left a hole in the Carlton forward line and while smalls and the acquisition of Henderson have attempted to patch it up they still need a big target up there. Waite can provide that for now but 2 to 3 years down the track they will need someone to step in. Also being solidly built means Barden can have an influence sooner rather than later again important as Judd is not going to be around forever and they want him to still be at his peak when they go for a premiership tilt.
# 34 PORT – Warrick Andreoli
Quick skilful player who takes the game on and generally makes the right decision. Could very well go 10 places higher so Port are lucky to pick him up here. Can play on the Wing but also potentially rest on the HFF. Port need a couple a quality mids and I think they will get one inside and one outside with these mid range second round picks. Andreoli fits the bill as an outside mid and has good foot skills which are crucial in AFL these days.
Compensation Pick:
#GC - Pass
Second Round:
#35 PORT – George Horlin-Smith
Again went for a local boy which eliminates the go home factor heading into the future. George is a solid utility player with scope to go forward or back but plays predominantly in the midfield as he is very good in the contested situation. After acquiring an outside mid at their last pick getting an inside one here should be priority and Horlin-Smith has proven he can play this role excellently. Coupled with his versatility to play wherever needed makes him a very attractive option even more so due to the new interchange rule.
#36 GEEL – Sebastian Tape
Have it on good authority that Geelong will target a tall defender in this draft (thanks PO) with old stalwarts Milburn and Scarlett nearing the end it will be interesting to see how Key Defenders Lonergan and Taylor cope, especially seeing as there is more than likely going to be more ball coming that way in the years to come. With only Gillies waiting in the wings acquiring a KPD needed to happen and to get one of Tape’s quality in the mid point of the Second Round is nothing short of a steal. He is an athletic tall defender with excellent closing speed. He has good skills and the ability to play on either talls or smalls depending on need. Leadership qualities are already there having captained South Australia in the under-18 championships this year which will only improve when training with the ultra disciplined Geelong side.
#37 HAW – Viv Michie
Viv is a goal kicking midfielder who can play inside but I prefer him as an outside mid as it allows him to use his excellent kicking skills to greater effect. Is a pretty good overhead mark which also allows him to play on either the half forward or half back flank. Is a good get for Hawthorn here as I still believe they need someone who can play on the wing and kicks well, this Michie provides and I can see Roughead and Franklin having a field day solely off the delivery from this young man. Midfield is not as weak as rucks or defence but with the trading in of Hale to assist the ruck division and Gibson to assist the backline coupled with the recruitment of Stratton last year and the anticipation to use their first pick on a Key Defender this year another outside mid is definitely the next most pressing need.
#38 GC – Sam Crocker
GC have used quite a few of their uncontracted player signings on defenders so in the short term they are going to need their midfielders to rest up forward so that they can score goals. (It is not easy to step into AFL football as a full time forward) Sam is a midfielder who is quick and is strong overhead added to his excellent disposal means he can effectively set up goals and also score them himself.
#39 SYD – Alex Johnson
I found it really difficult to select a player to Sydney and eventually settled with Alex because he is a versatile tall who can play forward or back with occasional forays into the midfield. Swans will lose Bradshaw and Goodes in the coming years and will need forwards who can take their positions, (I realise Bradshaw has only been there a year and had an injury riddled season) and down back Bolton will also be finishing up so to acquire a player who can step in at either position will be handy. He has an “outstanding” work rate and a competitive edge his defensive pressure is very strong which is now an expectation as a forward that you are able to provide something once the ball hits the deck.
#40 WBD (FS) – Tom Liberatone
The Dogs finish up their mini-drafting coup by acquiring son of Brownlow Medal winning father Anthony. If Tom was fair game you would expect to see him up there in the late first round. He is taller than his Dad but is also an inside mid machine racking up tackles and also getting a lot of ball himself. Has a reasonable outside game as well and could play for the Dogs from round 1.
#41 CARL – Myles Sewell
The 2009 J.J. Liston Medallist will be drafted this year the question is where? Due to Barlow’s success last year one would expect it to be sooner rather than later. Carlton do not have a pick until #67 and I do not think Sewell will last till then so I believe they will select him prematurely. Myles is a midfielder who accumulates the ball but does not hesitate to go get it himself. He is a smart player but doesn’t have the greatest kick. Carlton might go mature here as with the retirement of Hadley and the inability of McLean to get on the park Judd still needs help in the clinches and if the Blues think their premiership window is opening they will want players that can have an impact from day 1.
#42 STK – Daniel Farmer
Daniel is a quick HFF who can also push into the midfield, he is very much an outside player and he has a good kick makes good decisions and marks well. Again I tried to pick a player who will slot into the Saints side next year and add something to their forward line. Having another target up there who will score and create goals and should be an asset in 2011 and beyond.
#43 FREO – Kieran Butcher
Went for another local boy this time U18 WA captain Butcher; he is a strong inside midfielder who is very good at clearances is a hard worker and will always put the team before himself. Kicking and speed he will need to work on but they are not huge deficiencies in his game, he can play in the forward half and knows where the goals are. Freo are well stocked in outside mids and I think another inside player will complement them nicely. Again is ready made and could slot straight into the side if needed/desired.
Criticise at will.
