Analysis List Importance - 2015

[POBT]

"Oh look, here's POBT with his annual, self-aggrandising thread designed to do nothing more than show that he knows who all the players are. Great, I bet he's underrated Rockliff (incorrect) and overrated Merrett (correct). I just hope he hasn't put Leuenberger in the top 3 which inevitably leads to a season ending injury (I haven't). And I bet he has covered his arse with a whole bunch of ambiguous statements that can't be thrown back in his face, assuming someone even reads every word that he has written (my mum will)."

Anyway, now that I have correctly predicted your reaction to this exercise, I will pretend your opinions don't cut me up and proceed to post my list for 2015. As always, this is loosely based on something Inside Football does every year which means: (a) only players with senior experience are included; and (b) it is about who is most important, not who is the best player.

This year, the theme is midfielders. We will win based on midfield dominance and in spite of what is probably going to be a developing defence and a largely dysfunctional forward line. Therefore, while we have lots of depth in the midfield, I have chosen to accentuate this area as I believe the midfield cohort will determine our season's success. I include the ruckmen in the midfield group.

 

[POBT]

1. Tom Rockliff (last year rank: 3)

Fully fit, I cannot separate 3 players as the most important players in our side. As the captain, the reigning Merrett-Murray Medallist and the side’s best midfielder for the last few years, Rockliff deserves to be named first.


2. Dayne Beams (last year rank: unranked)

Beams brings qualities to the club that we were in desperate need of – inside ball winning, midfield goal kicking and winning experience. He will prove to be one of the better recruits in footy history. Only the captaincy separates Beams and Rockliff in terms of importance.


3. Daniel Rich (last year rank: 2)

Perenially a top 5 player in this list. His move to the half back line could prove to be pivotal. Our ball movement is far from elite and freeing Rich up from the full time midfield rotation potentially allows us to fix a problem we’ve had since Drummond retired. A lot of the side’s success will depend on Rich having 20 dangerous touches a game. If he struggles in this role, we could struggle as a side.


4. Josh Green (last year rank: 9)

Our leading goalkicker last year is going to need to take his game to the next level if we’re to make up for the lack of quality tall forwards. It is not unusual for a small forward to be a side’s main avenue to goal. We’re probably going to need 40+ goals from him to be any chance at the top 8. One of a few players who I think could move into the elite bracket for his position and elite small forwards are great to have.


5. Stefan Martin (last year rank: 30)

While not irreplaceable with Leuenberger back and West recovering, Martin’s combination of size and mobility brings both a big body at the contest and ground coverage which is rare in a ruckman. The ruck should prove a huge boon for the Lions this year and Martin is at the heart of it. A repeat of last year’s performances, alongside the top midfield we are assembling, will make the onball brigade formidable. Add in a goal a game and he’s the All Australian ruckman.


6. Dayne Zorko (last year rank: 7)

A strength this year will be playing midfield quality footballers away from the centre square. I envisage Zorko playing a role which is the reverse of Rich – stationed forward of the footy and pushing up to the contest. Like Green, his effectiveness in this role will determine whether we can manufacture a winning score most weeks, in spite of our tall forward issues.


7. Jack Redden (last year rank: 8)

As I said at the top, the midfield is going to drive our performances this year. Redden is a handy second stringer! While his defensive efforts are always exceptional, his offensive output is often inconsistent or lacks quality. The addition of quality midfielders will hopefully allow Redden to play a blue collar game which should suit more than the playmaking role he has been forced to play at times.


8. Daniel Merrett (last year rank: 10)

Controversial! The Shane Watson of the Brisbane Lions in terms of fan “support”, I am expecting a much improved season this year from Merrett. He has been the big riser in this list over the pre-season games. With Patfull gone and Adcock moving up field, Merrett is now the experienced player down back....and seems to be doing a good job of it. I think that leadership is going to prove vital for what is a young and/or inexperienced defensive line up.


9. Pearce Hanley (last year rank: 5)

Hanley is comfortably the best outside midfielder at the club. He remains alongside Rockliff and Beams as the best and most important players at the club and would have been top 3 but for injury. However, missing at least 8 games means his importance for 2015 is diminished. A handy mid year recruit though!


10. Daniel McStay (last year rank: unranked)

Another controversial one. He is this high based purely on talent. It is a punt but the preseason signs are good. Put simply, he hits the scoreboard. If he can escape the attentions of the elite fullbacks, he is the tall forward most likely to contribute to kicking a winning score. Having said that, he could easily play more reserves than seniors which makes him the ultimate wildcard this year.


11. Justin Clarke (last year rank: 20)

Given he will take the opponents’ best tall forward each week, he is pretty critical to the side’s performances. He’s performed some great defensive jobs in the last two years with only the strong forwards like Cloke and Hawkins proving to be an issue. However, his panic when in possession is a weakness and the coaches will need to give him simple instructions in that regard.


12. Allen Christensen (last year rank: unranked)

Injuries have not allowed Christensen to really demonstrate his wares but, when fit, he is an exceptionally talented footballer. His clearance work is first class and yet he’s probably more known as a creative half forward. I suspect he will go to plenty of centre bounces before pushing forward and, like Beams, will instantly improve our clearance and stoppage work. He’s as talented as anyone on this list – it will be a matter of whether his body allows him to perform.


13. Matthew Leuenberger (last year rank: 1)

Rich aside, I tend to give blokes returning from serious injury a break in these lists. I feel the club has the opportunity to be a bit patient with Leuenberger, given Martin showed last year he could carry a ruck division with minimal help. A season at less than Leuey’s full capability would not surprise. Still, a two ruck combination shapes up being a big strength for the club if we can get the balance right – this means Leuey and/or Martin will be expected to do a role up forward at least for parts of the game. A lot depends on how well Leuey and Martin work together.


14. Claye Beams (last year rank: 19)

As the second rebounding small, the Lions need the younger Beams generating a lot of drive out of the back half. Like Rich, he is effectively a midfielder playing back which has its positives (ball winning, skill level, offensive instincts) and its negatives (one on one defensive capability is an unknown). The question for Leppa will be whether he can lock down on a dangerous small forward when required. That’s a big unknown and remains a risk for the side in 2015. He is this high because it is a critical role – if he fails, we will need to rethink our defensive structure.


15. Darcy Gardiner

Gardiner is arguably the most instinctive defender at the club now, with Patfull’s departure. He will be required to do one on one jobs against a variety of forwards but where he could have greatest impact is through his superior game sense, helping defensive teammates to kill contests. If he can start to win his own footy more often, particularly in the air, we will go some way to replacing Patfull.


16. Jed Adcock (last year rank: 13)

I think I like him better on a wing. He brings work ethic and game sense. He averaged 7 tackles a game across the preseason which is a very good effort. I get the sense he believes he’s playing for his spot and he plays his best when he’s desperate. The big question for him will be tidying up his disposal, particularly inside 50, which can range from good to woeful.


17. Rohan Bewick (last year rank: 26)

In 2013, Bewick was 13th in this list and underperformed. In 2014, he was 26th and overperformed. This year, I’d like to think that he back to being a best 18 player. One of the most improved players at the club and one of the most impressive preseason performers. His role as a wide running flanker/wingman is going to be vital for the side both when in possession and without.


18. James Aish (last year rank: unranked)

Aish is developing into a very tidy midfielder, at this early stage of his career. I wouldn’t be surprised to see him take that to another level this year. While I suspect midfield opportunities will be scarce for some, I can see Aish being a big part of the rotations given he shows good instincts around the contest. He will be alongside Redden in that secondary midfield rotation.


19. Lewis Taylor (last year rank: unranked)

I suspect this is a lot lower than many people will have Lewy. I think he’s a top footballer in the making – it is just that I see his role as slightly secondary this year. He’ll likely be the 3rd or 4th small/half forward. He won’t get as much time in the guts as last year. Nevertheless, his performances last year and through pre-season put him as a clear best 22 player, with his linking up in particular a vital part of our ball movement.


20. Sam Mayes (last year rank: 12)

For whatever reason, Mayes has not shown dramatic improvement in the last 12 months. That’s not to suggest he has stagnated but, for a guy who looked quite progressed in his first year, he’s probably come back to the field. At his best, he provides the creativity, instincts and ball usage that we lack. But he’s not the greatest runner and not the most physical specimen – two attributes that Leppa seems to value. He’s on the fringe of the best 22, unless things change.


21. Michael Close (last year rank: unranked)

Another wildcard for the season. He showed signs last year that he had some of the components of an effective (although not necessarily excellent) key forward in development. His ability to hold down a key post for 22 games will be pivotal. It is unlikely we will win games off his boot but there’s a structural role that needs to be played. Close’s ability to make a contest, to provide an outlet and to kick a goal or two a game will be critical to the side’s fortunes. The big question is whether he can influence games enough as he’s not been a huge presence in his career to date and the preseason games have not been particularly encouraging.


22. Brent Staker (last year rank: 15)

I have a sense of “either/or” with Close and Staker. Before the preseason games, I had Staker in the top dozen or so on this list. That’s probably a little unfair given the length of time out of the game. I still think he’s the most effective key forward at the club – but I think my expectations need to be lowered for the first part of the season. It wouldn’t surprise to see him get games ahead of Close or McStay as the season progresses which is why I have him a bit higher than the other experienced backup types.


23. Ryan Lester (last year rank: 14)

In the several years I’ve been doing this list, I don’t think I’ve got this bloke right. He shows plenty of glimpses but there are critical flaws in his game – most notably, ground coverage and ball usage. As a potential backman, he won’t have to worry about running out games like he did on ball. But his poor disposal, particularly by foot, will be magnified coming out of defence. Preseason has been OK without answering some of the questions about his capacity to play well at this level. Fringe best 22 is about right (hopefully).


24. Mitch Robinson (last year rank: unranked)

Very hard to place. I’ve got him this low, not because I think he’s out of our 22 but because I’m not convinced that he’s a lot better for the side than a taller option like McGuane or a more skilful option like Mayes. I’m trying hard not to undervalue the hardness, experience and defensive instincts he brings. I think he will ultimately be measured on intangibles and I can see his selection being a polarising issue throughout the year. I guess I don’t get the sense that Robinson playing well will be critical to our side’s fortunes.


25. Marco Paparone (last year rank: 28)

He’s progressed as a footballer but is not necessarily that much closer to a regular senior spot. Even as a fan, I find it hard to put him any higher than this. At his best, he’s a ranging wingman/flanker who finds space when we’ve got it and fills space when they’ve got it. However, while he always works hard, he doesn’t always work effectively. Moreover, his disposal is ragged and he’s poor overhead for a bloke his size. I personally think the side plays better with him in but the question is whether he contributes enough offensively.

26. Ryan Harwood (last year rank: 16)

Injury has meant he’s dropped down this list over the course of the preseason. Even though he finished last year off pretty strongly, the return and reassignment of Rich and Clay Beams would have had him under pressure for his spot. His best form at senior level has been as a scrappy, hard nosed defender who makes few mistakes and doesn’t mind a dash. He doesn’t always show that though. His running capacity is an inhibiting factor too.


27. Matt Maguire (last year rank: 24)

Maguire had a good season last year – arguably his best at the club. He’s probably not the presence he was at his peak but he has great game sense and is undoubtedly the best decision maker of our KPDs. His value lies in the fact that he is a ready to go replacement at the defensive end.


28. Tom Cutler (last year rank: unranked)

While Cutler is an incredibly promising type, I think he’s in for another development year. Even allowing for that, he’s probably not far off senior selection, even more so if injury or poor form strike.


29. Jonathan Freeman (last year rank: unranked)

I’m yet to have the lightbulb moment with Freeman. I’ve seen the promising signs – the sticky hands, the forward instincts, a physique that is only going to get bigger and stronger. There are a lot of weaknesses too though. An interrupted offseason is not going to help him – had he had a full summer, he would be easily in contention for a best 22 spot, given the other options are hardly locked in. As it stands, he probably needs to work his way back.


30. Trent West (last year rank: 21)

But for an ACL injury, West would arguably be one of the more astute recruitment decisions we have made in recent times. He showed last year he could compete as forward-ruck and as a pure ruck. He’s good insurance in case our rucks don’t play 22 games. A bit lower ranked based on his likely delayed start to the year and the fact that we have strong first string options ahead of him.


31. Nick Robertson (last year rank: unranked)

Lions fans fell for him early last year. Reports of him training the house down, coupled with his eye-catching attack on the footy, meant that he was drew a lot of attention – rightly so too, as his attitude and professionalism has been first class. I just think this is a consolidation year for Robertson and he’s got a fair few ahead of him at the moment.


32. Luke McGuane (last year rank: 18)

I am actually a bit of a McGuane fan. I think he’s an honest 3rd forward/defender who will scrap hard to win the footy. He provides good balance. It is just hard to rate him any higher based on what he’s produced at this club.


33. Jackson Paine (last year rank: 29)

Reports of a strong summer are promising and it would be nice to think that a full offseason and another year of maturing will allow him to improve. He is just one of several options in what is a wide but shallow talent pool when it comes to tall forwards. May well get games if we can’t get the forward structure right – but he’s very much plan B or C at this point.


34. Mitch Golby (last year rank: 17)

A big drop. Unfortunately, based on preseason selections, he would appear to be a way off the best 22. His most likely path to senior footy is if Leppa needs to have a re-think about his defensive lineup and decides he needs a true small defender – it is not a good place for your career to be in, hoping for the side to fail to regain your spot.


35. Zac O’Brien (last year rank: unranked)

A year or two ago, O’Brien would probably be starting most games in the midfield for the Lions. He played some decent footy late last year but is going to be starved of opportunity given he’s a long way down the pecking order now. Perhaps needs to learn a few more tricks.


36. Jordon Bourke (last year rank: unranked)

He had a reasonable development year in 2014 but has hardly put his name up in lights over summer. He’s probably lucky he plays a role (3rd/4th defender) where there is an opening in the side but he’d want to show a bit more to return to the selection mix.

 

[winged1]

1. Tom Rockliff (last year rank: 3)

Fully fit, I cannot separate 3 players as the most important players in our side. As the captain, the reigning Merrett-Murray Medallist and the side’s best midfielder for the last few years, Rockliff deserves to be named first.


2. Dayne Beams (last year rank: unranked)

Beams brings qualities to the club that we were in desperate need of – inside ball winning, midfield goal kicking and winning experience. He will prove to be one of the better recruits in footy history. Only the captaincy separates Beams and Rockliff in terms of importance.


3. Daniel Rich (last year rank: 2)

Perenially a top 5 player in this list. His move to the half back line could prove to be pivotal. Our ball movement is far from elite and freeing Rich up from the full time midfield rotation potentially allows us to fix a problem we’ve had since Drummond retired. A lot of the side’s success will depend on Rich having 20 dangerous touches a game. If he struggles in this role, we could struggle as a side.


4. Josh Green (last year rank: 9)

Our leading goalkicker last year is going to need to take his game to the next level if we’re to make up for the lack of quality tall forwards. It is not unusual for a small forward to be a side’s main avenue to goal. We’re probably going to need 40+ goals from him to be any chance at the top 8. One of a few players who I think could move into the elite bracket for his position and elite small forwards are great to have.


5. Stefan Martin (last year rank: 30)

While not irreplaceable with Leuenberger back and West recovering, Martin’s combination of size and mobility brings both a big body at the contest and ground coverage which is rare in a ruckman. The ruck should prove a huge boon for the Lions this year and Martin is at the heart of it. A repeat of last year’s performances, alongside the top midfield we are assembling, will make the onball brigade formidable. Add in a goal a game and he’s the All Australian ruckman.


6. Dayne Zorko (last year rank: 7)

A strength this year will be playing midfield quality footballers away from the centre square. I envisage Zorko playing a role which is the reverse of Rich – stationed forward of the footy and pushing up to the contest. Like Green, his effectiveness in this role will determine whether we can manufacture a winning score most weeks, in spite of our tall forward issues.


7. Jack Redden (last year rank: 8)

As I said at the top, the midfield is going to drive our performances this year. Redden is a handy second stringer! While his defensive efforts are always exceptional, his offensive output is often inconsistent or lacks quality. The addition of quality midfielders will hopefully allow Redden to play a blue collar game which should suit more than the playmaking role he has been forced to play at times.


8. Daniel Merrett (last year rank: 10)

Controversial! The Shane Watson of the Brisbane Lions in terms of fan “support”, I am expecting a much improved season this year from Merrett. He has been the big riser in this list over the pre-season games. With Patfull gone and Adcock moving up field, Merrett is now the experienced player down back....and seems to be doing a good job of it. I think that leadership is going to prove vital for what is a young and/or inexperienced defensive line up.


9. Pearce Hanley (last year rank: 5)

Hanley is comfortably the best outside midfielder at the club. He remains alongside Rockliff and Beams as the best and most important players at the club and would have been top 3 but for injury. However, missing at least 8 games means his importance for 2015 is diminished. A handy mid year recruit though!


10. Daniel McStay (last year rank: unranked)

Another controversial one. He is this high based purely on talent. It is a punt but the preseason signs are good. Put simply, he hits the scoreboard. If he can escape the attentions of the elite fullbacks, he is the tall forward most likely to contribute to kicking a winning score. Having said that, he could easily play more reserves than seniors which makes him the ultimate wildcard this year.


11. Justin Clarke (last year rank: 20)

Given he will take the opponents’ best tall forward each week, he is pretty critical to the side’s performances. He’s performed some great defensive jobs in the last two years with only the strong forwards like Cloke and Hawkins proving to be an issue. However, his panic when in possession is a weakness and the coaches will need to give him simple instructions in that regard.


12. Allen Christensen (last year rank: unranked)

Injuries have not allowed Christensen to really demonstrate his wares but, when fit, he is an exceptionally talented footballer. His clearance work is first class and yet he’s probably more known as a creative half forward. I suspect he will go to plenty of centre bounces before pushing forward and, like Beams, will instantly improve our clearance and stoppage work. He’s as talented as anyone on this list – it will be a matter of whether his body allows him to perform.


13. Matthew Leuenberger (last year rank: 1)

Rich aside, I tend to give blokes returning from serious injury a break in these lists. I feel the club has the opportunity to be a bit patient with Leuenberger, given Martin showed last year he could carry a ruck division with minimal help. A season at less than Leuey’s full capability would not surprise. Still, a two ruck combination shapes up being a big strength for the club if we can get the balance right – this means Leuey and/or Martin will be expected to do a role up forward at least for parts of the game. A lot depends on how well Leuey and Martin work together.


14. Claye Beams (last year rank: 19)

As the second rebounding small, the Lions need the younger Beams generating a lot of drive out of the back half. Like Rich, he is effectively a midfielder playing back which has its positives (ball winning, skill level, offensive instincts) and its negatives (one on one defensive capability is an unknown). The question for Leppa will be whether he can lock down on a dangerous small forward when required. That’s a big unknown and remains a risk for the side in 2015. He is this high because it is a critical role – if he fails, we will need to rethink our defensive structure.


15. Darcy Gardiner

Gardiner is arguably the most instinctive defender at the club now, with Patfull’s departure. He will be required to do one on one jobs against a variety of forwards but where he could have greatest impact is through his superior game sense, helping defensive teammates to kill contests. If he can start to win his own footy more often, particularly in the air, we will go some way to replacing Patfull.


16. Jed Adcock (last year rank: 13)

I think I like him better on a wing. He brings work ethic and game sense. He averaged 7 tackles a game across the preseason which is a very good effort. I get the sense he believes he’s playing for his spot and he plays his best when he’s desperate. The big question for him will be tidying up his disposal, particularly inside 50, which can range from good to woeful.


17. Rohan Bewick (last year rank: 26)

In 2013, Bewick was 13th in this list and underperformed. In 2014, he was 26th and overperformed. This year, I’d like to think that he back to being a best 18 player. One of the most improved players at the club and one of the most impressive preseason performers. His role as a wide running flanker/wingman is going to be vital for the side both when in possession and without.


18. James Aish (last year rank: unranked)

Aish is developing into a very tidy midfielder, at this early stage of his career. I wouldn’t be surprised to see him take that to another level this year. While I suspect midfield opportunities will be scarce for some, I can see Aish being a big part of the rotations given he shows good instincts around the contest. He will be alongside Redden in that secondary midfield rotation.


19. Lewis Taylor (last year rank: unranked)

I suspect this is a lot lower than many people will have Lewy. I think he’s a top footballer in the making – it is just that I see his role as slightly secondary this year. He’ll likely be the 3rd or 4th small/half forward. He won’t get as much time in the guts as last year. Nevertheless, his performances last year and through pre-season put him as a clear best 22 player, with his linking up in particular a vital part of our ball movement.


20. Sam Mayes (last year rank: 12)

For whatever reason, Mayes has not shown dramatic improvement in the last 12 months. That’s not to suggest he has stagnated but, for a guy who looked quite progressed in his first year, he’s probably come back to the field. At his best, he provides the creativity, instincts and ball usage that we lack. But he’s not the greatest runner and not the most physical specimen – two attributes that Leppa seems to value. He’s on the fringe of the best 22, unless things change.


21. Michael Close (last year rank: unranked)

Another wildcard for the season. He showed signs last year that he had some of the components of an effective (although not necessarily excellent) key forward in development. His ability to hold down a key post for 22 games will be pivotal. It is unlikely we will win games off his boot but there’s a structural role that needs to be played. Close’s ability to make a contest, to provide an outlet and to kick a goal or two a game will be critical to the side’s fortunes. The big question is whether he can influence games enough as he’s not been a huge presence in his career to date and the preseason games have not been particularly encouraging.


22. Brent Staker (last year rank: 15)

I have a sense of “either/or” with Close and Staker. Before the preseason games, I had Staker in the top dozen or so on this list. That’s probably a little unfair given the length of time out of the game. I still think he’s the most effective key forward at the club – but I think my expectations need to be lowered for the first part of the season. It wouldn’t surprise to see him get games ahead of Close or McStay as the season progresses which is why I have him a bit higher than the other experienced backup types.


23. Ryan Lester (last year rank: 14)

In the several years I’ve been doing this list, I don’t think I’ve got this bloke right. He shows plenty of glimpses but there are critical flaws in his game – most notably, ground coverage and ball usage. As a potential backman, he won’t have to worry about running out games like he did on ball. But his poor disposal, particularly by foot, will be magnified coming out of defence. Preseason has been OK without answering some of the questions about his capacity to play well at this level. Fringe best 22 is about right (hopefully).


24. Mitch Robinson (last year rank: unranked)

Very hard to place. I’ve got him this low, not because I think he’s out of our 22 but because I’m not convinced that he’s a lot better for the side than a taller option like McGuane or a more skilful option like Mayes. I’m trying hard not to undervalue the hardness, experience and defensive instincts he brings. I think he will ultimately be measured on intangibles and I can see his selection being a polarising issue throughout the year. I guess I don’t get the sense that Robinson playing well will be critical to our side’s fortunes.


25. Marco Paparone (last year rank: 28)

He’s progressed as a footballer but is not necessarily that much closer to a regular senior spot. Even as a fan, I find it hard to put him any higher than this. At his best, he’s a ranging wingman/flanker who finds space when we’ve got it and fills space when they’ve got it. However, while he always works hard, he doesn’t always work effectively. Moreover, his disposal is ragged and he’s poor overhead for a bloke his size. I personally think the side plays better with him in but the question is whether he contributes enough offensively.

26. Ryan Harwood (last year rank: 16)

Injury has meant he’s dropped down this list over the course of the preseason. Even though he finished last year off pretty strongly, the return and reassignment of Rich and Clay Beams would have had him under pressure for his spot. His best form at senior level has been as a scrappy, hard nosed defender who makes few mistakes and doesn’t mind a dash. He doesn’t always show that though. His running capacity is an inhibiting factor too.


27. Matt Maguire (last year rank: 24)

Maguire had a good season last year – arguably his best at the club. He’s probably not the presence he was at his peak but he has great game sense and is undoubtedly the best decision maker of our KPDs. His value lies in the fact that he is a ready to go replacement at the defensive end.


28. Tom Cutler (last year rank: unranked)

While Cutler is an incredibly promising type, I think he’s in for another development year. Even allowing for that, he’s probably not far off senior selection, even more so if injury or poor form strike.


29. Jonathan Freeman (last year rank: unranked)

I’m yet to have the lightbulb moment with Freeman. I’ve seen the promising signs – the sticky hands, the forward instincts, a physique that is only going to get bigger and stronger. There are a lot of weaknesses too though. An interrupted offseason is not going to help him – had he had a full summer, he would be easily in contention for a best 22 spot, given the other options are hardly locked in. As it stands, he probably needs to work his way back.


30. Trent West (last year rank: 21)

But for an ACL injury, West would arguably be one of the more astute recruitment decisions we have made in recent times. He showed last year he could compete as forward-ruck and as a pure ruck. He’s good insurance in case our rucks don’t play 22 games. A bit lower ranked based on his likely delayed start to the year and the fact that we have strong first string options ahead of him.


31. Nick Robertson (last year rank: unranked)

Lions fans fell for him early last year. Reports of him training the house down, coupled with his eye-catching attack on the footy, meant that he was drew a lot of attention – rightly so too, as his attitude and professionalism has been first class. I just think this is a consolidation year for Robertson and he’s got a fair few ahead of him at the moment.


32. Luke McGuane (last year rank: 18)

I am actually a bit of a McGuane fan. I think he’s an honest 3rd forward/defender who will scrap hard to win the footy. He provides good balance. It is just hard to rate him any higher based on what he’s produced at this club.


33. Jackson Paine (last year rank: 29)

Reports of a strong summer are promising and it would be nice to think that a full offseason and another year of maturing will allow him to improve. He is just one of several options in what is a wide but shallow talent pool when it comes to tall forwards. May well get games if we can’t get the forward structure right – but he’s very much plan B or C at this point.


34. Mitch Golby (last year rank: 17)

A big drop. Unfortunately, based on preseason selections, he would appear to be a way off the best 22. His most likely path to senior footy is if Leppa needs to have a re-think about his defensive lineup and decides he needs a true small defender – it is not a good place for your career to be in, hoping for the side to fail to regain your spot.


35. Zac O’Brien (last year rank: unranked)

A year or two ago, O’Brien would probably be starting most games in the midfield for the Lions. He played some decent footy late last year but is going to be starved of opportunity given he’s a long way down the pecking order now. Perhaps needs to learn a few more tricks.


36. Jordon Bourke (last year rank: unranked)

He had a reasonable development year in 2014 but has hardly put his name up in lights over summer. He’s probably lucky he plays a role (3rd/4th defender) where there is an opening in the side but he’d want to show a bit more to return to the selection mix.

First of all I think you should seek professional help. I dont know if your mum can read it if she is a dessicating corpse in a rocking chair.

Secondly good effort, my only comment would be I think Clarke is quite low and possibly Gardner...and Claye Beams is a bit high for a guy where we have a bit of depth and he isnt a concreted top 22. But other than that seems ok.

 

[Fatcat08]

Oh look, here's POBT with his annual, self-aggrandising (look at the big words I can use!) thread designed to do nothing more than show that he knows who all the players are. Great, I bet he's underrated Rockliff and overrated Merrett. I just hope he hasn't put Leuenberger in the top 3 which inevitably leads to a season ending injury. And I bet he has covered his arse with a whole bunch of ambiguous statements that can't be thrown back in his face. Doubt i'll even read it all.

ok now that I've assisted you in your penchant for self flagellation I shall continue!

I don't have too many contradictory views, we tend to think reasonably similar on these things. I'd probably have Redden a touch lower, but can see why you've put him where you have. I'd actually have Claye a bit higher with Hanley going down for the first half of the season. I think that while we have a few options for his position the relative quality there isn't super. I guess i could be rating his defensive work a bit high as its probably largely untested.

As for paps he is the other I'd have a bit higher (and lester lower). Once again I'm probably rating a bit on potential but I see him as an important part of our structure and how Leppa wants to play the game.

Good stuff as always POBT, as usual I enjoyed the read. Did you have an order before pre season started? If you did I would be interested to see how it has changed over the 3 pre season games.

 

[James North]

" Great, I bet he's underrated Rockliff (incorrect) and overrated Merrett (correct)."

Gee, you made that pretty easy for yourself.

 

[John]

Good stuff POBT and as always written without hyperbole.

 

[jackess]

I'd have Hanley number 1 and D Beams 2. Hanley is our only midfielder with both speed and skill and D Beams is at the moment clearly our best midfielder. He is so much more dangerous with the footy than Rocky and our best clearance winner.

 

[Cockliff38]

I'd have Hanley number 1 and D Beams 2. Hanley is our only midfielder with both speed and skill and D Beams is at the moment clearly our best midfielder.

I agree with Hanley but as POBT said, his value for 2015 is diminished due to missing half the season.

I'd probably have Bewick in the top 12 - maybe 10. His good games last year we're all wins - which I believe is no coincidence.

Great list though

 

[Mavlions1961]

Pretty good POBT, personally I would have Zorko in front of Green, both ultra important, but when Zorko is on his game, the team really does benefit.

 

[Kevvo]

This is a good list. I have a feeling that Lewy Taylor is going to wind up playing an important role entering and creating opportunities in the F50. If the preseason is anything to go by, it seems like we've been looking to release Taylor and Green wide into the F50 in space, giving them the opportunity to try one on ones or to find a target in the middle.

On that basis I'd probably have him a bit higher. Other than that, spot on I reckon.

 

[Tairy Greene]

http://www.bigfooty.com/forum/threads/media-alert.1062470/page-48#post-37530742

 

[blynd_freddie]

http://www.bigfooty.com/forum/threads/media-alert.1062470/page-48#post-37530742

No even for his use of third person? No pleasing some people.

 

[Tairy Greene]

No even for his use of third person? No pleasing some people.

I approve of his 3rd person use, but not of his lists.

 

[Fatcat08]

I approve of his 3rd person use, but not of his lists.

What about if it was a bar chart?

 

[POBT]

Did you have an order before pre season started? If you did I would be interested to see how it has changed over the 3 pre season games.

I wrote it down one day but lost the piece of paper. If found, please return to "Self-important twat, care of BigFooty in your capital city"

FWIW, I normally try and have a rough idea before Christmas and then adjust accordingly. Hanley, Rocky and Beams were a clear cut top 3. I've been keen to have Green near the top. Merrett has been a big mover - he was about #20 at one point. McStay is another one - he was not in the top 20 until the NAB challenge games.

What I did find was that guys I rate dropped down. Aish, Mayes and Taylor were all a few spots higher before the final draft. My assessment of them (well, Aish and Taylor) hasn't changed but I don't know if they are as critical to our success as guys like CBeams, McStay etc who, if they are successful, will really transform the side.

 

[POBT]

This is a good list. I have a feeling that Lewy Taylor is going to wind up playing an important role entering and creating opportunities in the F50. If the preseason is anything to go by, it seems like we've been looking to release Taylor and Green wide into the F50 in space, giving them the opportunity to try one on ones or to find a target in the middle.

On that basis I'd probably have him a bit higher. Other than that, spot on I reckon.

He's one I didn't feel right about dropping him further down the list. Could easily mount an argument he and Aish should be higher than guys like Bewick and Adcock but I think experience and maturity will be important at times this year.

 

[POBT]

http://www.bigfooty.com/forum/threads/media-alert.1062470/page-48#post-37530742

Stalker.

 

[POBT]

Pretty good POBT, personally I would have Zorko in front of Green, both ultra important, but when Zorko is on his game, the team really does benefit.

Fair call. I see them playing slightly different roles and, as such, I think Green is less replaceable. Toss of a coin though.

 

[POBT]

I'd have Hanley number 1 and D Beams 2. Hanley is our only midfielder with both speed and skill and D Beams is at the moment clearly our best midfielder. He is so much more dangerous with the footy than Rocky and our best clearance winner.

It is a bee's proverbial between the three of them IMO. As I said above, Hanley is in the same bracket as Rockliff and Beams - a different day and I might have changed the order.

 

[Ironmonger]

Top stuff, POBT, as usual.

Mostly agree, but I reckon McStay at #10 is a pretty big call. The way I look to look at your list is what impact would it have if this guy did a knee tomorrow on our 2015 prospects, and I reckon in McStay's case it would probably be negligible. Although I guess we'd never know.

Top 5 are spot on, in my opinion. I reckon Merrett is placed about right too, given how good he's looked in the pre-season and how inexperienced our backline is. I think I'd have Zorko a few spots lower, just because it feels all of a sudden we have a few of that type of player.

 

[POBT]

Top stuff, POBT, as usual.

Mostly agree, but I reckon McStay at #10 is a pretty big call. The way I look to look at your list is what impact would it have if this guy did a knee tomorrow on our 2015 prospects, and I reckon in McStay's case it would probably be negligible. Although I guess we'd never know.

Probably right. The more I see of him, the more I am convinced that he's a fairly unique talent. But it is a big stretch to suggest a 2nd year tall is this vital to our season.

 

[James North]

I approve of his 3rd person use, but not of his lists.

This is a list of things you do and don't like, FYI.

 

[blynd_freddie]

9. Pearce Hanley (last year rank: 5)

Hanley is comfortably the best outside midfielder at the club. He remains alongside Rockliff and Beams as the best and most important players at the club and would have been top 3 but for injury. However, missing at least 8 games means his importance for 2015 is diminished. A handy mid year recruit though!

Always a great opinionative write up POBT and being so, I'll bounce back an alternative opinion re Hanley in what could possibly be little more than a chicken or the egg call.

So, considering this is your full season ranking... on one hand missing at least 8 games may diminish his importance re the games but 6 of the first 10 [pre-bye] are against 2014 non-finalists. After the bye we play 7 non-finalists in a long 12 game run home after the bye/pre finals. If we were say 5 from 10 at the break and then able to have Pearce available for all the post bye games, I dare say his importance in us needing to win 7 or 8 of the remaining could well be HUGE!

Still somewhere between 3 and 5 for me, POBT.

 

[Elixuh]

Haven't seen or heard of Maguire all preseason. I wonder how he will fare this season.

Absolutely warranted, but its sad to see how far Mayes has slipped in 12 months. On the positive side I think the deficiencies you've highlighted can definitely be worked on.

If Redden can clean up his disposal efficiency and decision-making by foot I think he can definitely solidify a top 10 spot in the side.

Out of our 3 new recruits (Beams, Bundy and Robinson) I'm most interested to see the impact that Bundy has. I think Beams is the known quantity and Robinson more the wildcard or value trade. Bundy IMO has the potential to reach the 3-10 ranking on your list (in 2016) if he can stay fit or, conversely, to hover around his current ranking. Did you take into account Leppas comments that he will likely be rested during the season if need be? Or its a bit of an unknown?

A great list as always POBT, you'd give Liam Neeson a run for his money if it were 1993. Always creates a lot of discussion.

 

[POBT]

Elixuh - I'd have had Bundy at about 7 if fully fit.