Phantom Draft 2013 - getgaff

[getgaff]

Based on current ladder positioning and what i think the final ladder will be using ladder predictor,​

(ruling out the Crows) I've done a revised mock draft. Bio's largely thanks to scpaige.com.au​

​

Round 1 (selections 1 to 10)

Pick 1: GWS – MATTHEW SCHARENBERG

Height: 190cm
Weight: 89kg
Recruited from: Glenelg
Comparison: Brendon Goddard

Scharenberg shot up draft rankings after an outstanding Under 18 Carnival where he was part of the All Australian team and joint winner of SA’s MVP award. His awareness of time, vision and poise with ball in hand are Scott Pendlebury like attributes (also comes from a basketball background) making him look as though he has all the time in the world with ball in hand. The beauty of Scharenberg, is that he can play a number of positions well; whether it be a rebounding in defence, or an agile forward he can play a number of positions without fuss (like Goddard) and a player who team mates like to get the footy in the hands of

Scharenberg’s biggest asset to me is his versatility. Plays across the ground with a minimum of fuss and hits targets by foot. Well suited to a role off a HBF for the Giants IMO

I don't think the injury in the Under 18s has made me drop Boyd down the pecking order especially if the Giants were to land Lance Franklin. That left me with Scharenberg VS Aish. As good as I think Aish will be Scharenberg stands out to me.

Who else is in the mix: Tom Boyd

​

​

Pick 2: Melbourne - JAMES AISH​

​

Height: 183cm
Weight: 74kg
Recruited from: Norwood
Comparison: Trent Cotchin

After a stellar Under 18 championships, Aish is now considered to be at worst a top 3 pick. Uses the ball well on both sides. Rated highly for his work in congestion, courageous in the air and often in the leading disposal winners in each game he plays, just a magnet for the ball. Debuted at SANFL level in 2012 when he also won All Australian honours as a bottom age player, and played a key role in Norwood’s premiership, averaging 18 disposals a game at senior level, and closer to 30 at Colts level. The temptation will be there to pick Boyd here but Melbourne already has Jesse Hogan via the mini draft who looks a readymade tall prospect. Both inside and outside is a midfielder ready for AFL. Strong overhead and although still raw isn’t afraid of a contest and will be better still when he puts some more body size on. Only weakness early in his career may be his ability to break off from a tag where he struggled when tagged at the U18 championships

Who else is in the mix: Matt Scharenberg

​

​

Pick 3: St Kilda - Tom Boyd​

​

Height: 199cm
Weight: 102kg
Recruited from: Eastern Ranges
Comparison: Jonathan Patton

In their wildest dreams Boyd would have been available for the Bulldogs at pick 4 but it would have been one of the greatest shocks in recent drafts (probably since Tambling over Franklin) if they landed him. St. Kilda should waste no time in selecting Boyd if his available at pick 3. Hands down the best tall target in the draft and he would be a vital cog in the Riewoldt succession plan with Tom Lee. Has the size, strength and endurance to line up from Round 1 next year and he is a player I can’t wait to watch for the next 10 – 15 years hopefully. An imposing and physical target like Jonathan Patton in the regard his strong contested marking, goal kicking and ability to hold front position will frustrate many a defender. Clean skills on the ground, hard to beat in the air and prone to kicking bags of goals, he isn’t afraid to throw his weight around and crash packs either. Not a power athlete like Nick Riewoldt but his body strength is huge for a teenager. The only weakness to his game could be considered a mental flaw where opponents can get into his head with niggle

Who else is in the mix: James Aish, Matt Scharenberg

​

​

PICK 4: Western Bulldogs – JOSH KELLY​

​

Height: 182cm
Weight: 73kg
Recruited from: Sandringham DragonsComparison: Andrew Gaff

Kelly was initially strongly considered to be taken as a mini-draft selection in 2012 however was over-looked in the end. The snub didn’t affect his 2013 campaign at TAC Cup or Under 18 Championship level underlining why he is rated so highly in the National Draft. An accumulator of the footy, has terrific awareness and vision in traffic and his ball use was rated in the top 1% in the U18 National Championships. Although still a light player Kelly is all class a smooth mover. The type of player his teammates look to get the ball to, his ability to find targets with ease is natural. Will run all day and in the past has tested off the charts in beep test, 3k time trial and repeat sprints. His high level endurance where he has likened to Gaff from West Coast is the key to why he gets to so many contests and wins a lot of the ball. Runs all day and works both ways and ready to make an immediate impact in 2014. With the Bulldogs having a number of inside midfielders at their disposal already he would be ideal as an outside runner for them. The only weakness in Kelly’s game would be his lack of an inside game

Who else is in the mix: Jack Billings

​

​

Pick 5: Gold Coast - JACK BILLINGS

Billings is arguably the most deadly users of the footy in the draft. A special talent who’s game sense, and weapon kick is damaging if given too much room. Praised for his sticky hands when marking and a fantastic overhead grab for his size where he has been likened to Geelon’g Bartel inside 50. At ground level, he finds his way in and out of traffic, setting up team mates, or going the journey to kick long goals or from closer range. As an outside player he knows where to run, when to spread and his vision is rated highly, all the traits for a future high level midfielder. Is clever around the goals where I believe his AFL career would start off a flank or pocket while looking to further develop his endurance running to add to the flashy, flamboyant game. Billings is a dual All Australian player at Under 18 level as well so his talent was noticed already last year. The defined weakness in his game is the lack of endurance required to be able to play through the midfield

Who else is in the mix: Josh Kelly


Pick 6: North Melbourne F/S - LUKE McDONALD

Height: 188cm
Weight: 80kg
Recruited from: Oakleigh Chargers
Comparison: Trent McKenzie

Luke is the son of former North champion and current Football Manager Donald McDonald making him eligible for Father/ Son selection to North Melbourne. Plenty to like for North fans in McDonald especially in his foot disposal where he can hit targets lace out from over 60 metres. Would be best utilized off a half back flank like his comparison McKenzie has been utilised from the Suns, he is cool under pressure, and a strong defensive mark. Finds targets by with his bullet left foot foot with ease and goes hard. A real play maker off half back, can transition to an outside midfielder and kick goals from outside 50. Captained the Vic Metro team in the U18 Championships and his versatility in playing any position on the ground with ease, assisting the transition into an eventual midfield option in years to come. Hurts opposition with his line breaking speed which makes him a genuine 80 to 100m player. Strong in a one on one defensive contest and hard to beat once the ball hits the deck. Has spent the past season in the VFL with Werribee with his explosive speed, endurance and agility standing out. The defined weakness in his game is that he doesn’t grasp how damaging his disposal can be and needs to make himself more dangerous with the amount of ball he gets

Who else is in the mix: FATHER/ SON SELECTION


Pick 7: Brisbane - DOMINIC SHEED

Height: 183cm
Weight: 82kg
Recruited from: Subiaco
Comparison: Simon Black

Personally I’m not totally convinced on Brisbane’s selection here. In my opinion it will depend a lot of whether Jonathan Brown decides to go around again.

Sheed took the Under 18 championships by storm before breaking his collarbone in the fourth round, prematurely ending his championships. The classy mover averaged 27.8 disposals in the four outings, enough for him to take him the Larke Medal for best player in division 1 and it’s doesn’t surpise me that Brisbane have shown interest due to his likeness with current midfield star Simon Black. An incredible talent and arguably the best performed and most well-rounded midfielder of the champs. Sheed has the capacity to shake a tag, the endurance and game smarts to run all day where he accumulates possessions. Has a perceived lack of pace but makes up for that in endurance averaging 13 km’s a match throughout the championships. Well balanced in the midfield his strength is his midfield versatility where he can play inside or outside without fuss. As a forward he can kick goals from all angles and has the body size and strength to be a pain for smaller opposition defenders. The only weakness in Sheed is that his blessed with great outside pace but gets to the right spots and makes time for himself in that way to dispose cleanly.

Who else is in the mix: Josh Kelly, Cameron McCarthy, Darcy Hourigan


PICK 8: WEST COAST – NATHAN FREEMAN

Height: 181cm
Weight: 85kg
Recruited from: Sandringham Dragons
Style: Patrick Dangerfield/Luke Shuey

Freeman is one of the more interesting and exciting prospects in the draft pool. Highly regarded as an explosive midfielder, he was considered to be a top 10 prospect whose bursts from congestion, run and carry, and line breaking runs drew comparisons to Adelaide’s Patrick Dangerfield. Dominant in clearances, talented with foot disposal and is more often than not a team barometer. Like Sheed has a balanced inside and outside game, loves a one on one contest and is a danger inside 50 with his stronger body but thrives in the contested situation and loves to push forward and kick goals. His vision and awareness are also rated in that he sums up pressure situation without fuss, and has good vision outside of a contest. Like a true midfielder wins the ball well either in the air or on the ground and uses it well most of the time. The defined weakness in his game as an inside mid is a high kick:handball ratio which can lead to a rushed kick and turnover. That area of his game could definitely be ironed out but

Who else is in the mix: Dominic Sheed, Matt Crouch, Marcus Bontempelli

Why West Coast: Freeman's inside ability and explosive speed from congestion is what has drawn me to selecting him over a home grown midfielder such as Domonic Sheed or the stand out inside mid of the draft (in my opinion) Matt Crouch. Has aspects of his outside game to develop but he could be a real gem on the insides that is to hard to pass up


PICK 9: Carlton – MARCUS BONTEMPELLI

Height: 191cm
Weight: 83kg
Recruited from: Northern Knights

Bontempelli is a tall, athletic and super versatile player. Rathed highly for his athleticism, is agile in that he plays tall or small and is versatile enough to play off a back flank as a disciplined defender who knows when to mark and kill the ball in defence (where he has drawn comparisons to a Grant Birchall type defender), roaming the midfield where his attributes have been likened to a Scott Pendlebury type. Bontempelli also has a strong leap and when pushed forward can play like a 3rd tall forward and is good below his knees. Possesses little endurance where he will run all day. His game is based on his outside skills with his run and carry a feature and makes him a 80 metre plus player with a long kick. What stands out is his versatility to spread across key areas, his marking, tackling and inside 50 disposal, marking, tackling and inside 50′s where his disposal into the forward line more often than not finds a target, lace-out. The defined weakness in his game is the lack of inside game he brings but he is developing it and the club selecting him has a lot to work with

Who else is in the mix: Ben Lennon, Kade Kolodjashnij


PICK 10: GWS (ACTIVATED COMPENSATION) – DARCY GARDINER

Height: 192cm
Weight: 84kg
Recruited from: Geelong Falcons
Style: Darren Glass

Gardiner is arguably that next best key position player after Boyd in the draft. Developing into a key defender Gardiner has a strong shut down game, and plays a strong 1v1 game where he can wrestle with the bigger Under 18 bodies but also stays with them on the lead making him an effective shutdown defender where he models his games to Glass from West Coast. Has the footy smarts to be a rebounder and take intercept marks, but is disciplined in knowing when to punch and when to mark as well. Composed with the ball in hand and hits targets in traffic or space. Can play as a key forward as well but is much better suited to a KPD. Gardiner’s weakness would be that he is poor at ground level and isn’t confident with his disposal by foot. Tends to look for a hand ball option first and that like most young talls he still needs to physically develop. If he gets opportunities in 2014 I can’t imagine it being as any better than a 3rd tall back or attacking defensive option

Who else is in the mix: Darcy Hourigan, Matt Crouch, Ben Lennon

 

[getgaff]

PICK 11: PORT ADELAIDE – LUKE DUNSTAN

Height: 185cm
Weight: 83kg
Recruited from: Woodville-West Torrens
Style: Brad Sewell (with better ability forward of centre)

Can see Port going for the best local talent here (if available) in either Dunstan or Dumont. Dunstan captain the state 18s side in 2013 and led from the front taking home the co-MVP for SA with Scharenberg, dominating at the clearances and with his strong tackling a feature. Is best described as a Luke Ball like inside midfielder, with all the attributes to be an effective captain and 200+ game player but there is no eye catching line breaking speed element to his game nor is there high level disposal by foot. Will be a absolute workhorse but. Will be predominantly an inside mid but has shown abaility to push forward of centre and inside 50 with damage. A real blue chip hard working footballer he isn’t flashy and doesn’t possess lots of tricks but he will give strength, leadership and courage in spades. The way he plays he is ready to be effective in his chosen team from Round 1 2014. The defined weakness in his game is that in his skills the hurt factor on the opposition is low. Doesn't possess that line breaking quality either

Who else is in the mix: Trent Dumont, Matt Crouch, Nathan Freeman (if available)


PICK 12: ESSENDON – MATT CROUCH

Height: 181cm
Weight: 80kg
Recruited from: North Ballarat Rebels
Style: Luke Ball

Crouch was one of the standouts in the TAC cup before going down with a broken wrist. A gifted player his strength is his hard work at stoppages, where he specialises and is arguably the best inside midfielders of the draft. He attacks the ball, and defensively is excellent, averaging 5 tackles and 6 clearances a game in the TAC Cup. Has quick hands and is quick to put boot to ball in a pressure situation. This year he has worked hard to establish more of an outside influence to his game seeing him in the top 10% at TAC Cup level for handball receives, demonstrating his ability to spread as an outside player. Has great awareness and a good kick of the ball when given space to compose. The biggest knock on his game would be lack of outside pace and explosiveness but for a pure inside midfielder that is an area of the game isn’t as vital

Who else is in the mix: Nathan Freeman, Lewis Taylor


PICK 13: COLLINGWOOD – BEN LENNON

Height: 187cm
Weight: 79kg
Recruited from: Northern Knights
Style: Shannon Hurn (as a defender)

Lennon is a player who can play anywhere that is required of him which makes him a gifted utility. Versatile and explosive, he impacts games in whatever position assigned to him. Preferred up forward where his marking ability is rated highly, and his intelligence around goal either on the run or from a set shot is consistent. Possesses a booming kick penetrating well over 60 metres, which when used in in defence, is similar to Shannon Hurn. Up forward, he plays smart, likes to move it on after marking and will score from outside 50, or hit up a target lace out. Blessed with pace, he offers multiple leads making him a damaging HFF, where he is, clean at ground level and kicks goals. His kick from the back line cuts through opposition zones allowing his team to go coast to coast with minimal fuss. He’s the type of player who will be a very important avenue for whichever club he is drafted to. The defined weakness in his game at the moment would be that his engine isn’t big enough for work through the midfield which will be worked on by whichever club selects him making him an even more damaging midfield prospect

Who else is in the mix: Kade Kolodjashnij, Marcus Bontempelli


PICK 14: RICHMOND – LEWIS TAYLOR

Height: 173cm
Weight: 73kg
Recruited from: Geelong Falcons
Style: Brent Harvey

Taylor was considered to be a mini-draft selection in 2012, he didn’t sit on the disappointment on non-selection for long however as he had an ideal 2013 campaign in 2013 with the Geelong Falcons, co captaining his club side and leading the Under 18 Vic Country side. His key attributes of speed, agility and acceleration are suited to the modern game. Has the burst of speed from stoppages likened to Dane Swan, he has the tackling ability of Joel Selwood, the clearance ability of Josh Kennedy and the guidance of Jobe Watson rolled into one (WHAT A PACKAGE!!!) Ticks all the boxes of a top-line draft pick, including his speed, agility, line-breaking runs and is a stoppage specialist. Her has the capacity to win a lot of contested ball, and more often than not is found rummaging at the bottom of packs, clearing the ball from defence and demonstrating his defence-first attitude. Small in stature where he has been likened to Brent Harvey, he is courageous and plays for the jumper. His never say die attitude, ferocity and overall attack on the game stands out. Loves the hardness of the game and will bring grunt and leadership to a team. Was unstoppable at the National Championships and for TAC Cup ladder leaders the Geelong Falcons. His strong season and Under 18 carnival was duly rewarded by being named in the All Australian side. The defined weakness in Taylor’s game is that he can put team mates under pressure with handballs when in traffic and being a strong competitor is prone to giving away free kicks

Who else is in the mix: Ben Lennon, Kade Kolodjashnij


PICK 15: SYDNEY– CHRISTIAN SALEM

Height: 183cm
Weight: 82kg
Recruited from: Sandringham Dragons
Style: Luke Hodge (less damaging)

Salem is a well-balanced midfielder on both sides of his body making him an inside or outside prospect for his chosen team. Plays physically and loves to tackle and pressure the opposition. Hunts the ball carrier, harasses, corrals and puts pressure on the player with the ball fitting into the Sydney mould nicely. His tackling game is considered the highlight, along with distinctive ability to use the ball either side of his body. A beautiful kick and knows how to finish on goal. A hard, uncompromising, tough, combative and courageous player will put his head over the ball and never shirk a contest (seems like an ideal replacement for Jude Bolton when he retires). Works hard off the ball as well especially blocking and unrewarded running to place a sheppard or tackle. Smart player with a huge tank and gives outside leg speed. More so an outside player than inside he has the attributes to become very good inside and will add more depth to the Swans midfield/ small forward stocks. The defined weakness in his game is he can be inconsistent with his disposal numbers but will have a long list of other midfielders who can win the ball for him

Who else is in the mix: Trent Dumont


PICK 16: FREMANTLE – CAMERON McCARTHY

Height: 195cm
Weight: 89kg
Recruited from: South Fremantle
Comparison: Justin Westhoff

McCarthy is one of the more attention-grabbing stories in the draft. Relatively new to the game and started taking the game on only seriously in 2013 he is a naturally talented player and tall forward. For a player only knew to the game is a highly rated mark, athletic, a sound set shot for goal and deadly kick on the run, and is intelligent at ground level. Possesses a good vertical leap and has all the traits for a long term key position star. Impressed in the Under 18 Championships until unfortunately going down with a fractured leg and dislocated ankle after landing awkwardly in a marking contest. The injury shouldn’t do his draft chances any harm however due to his strong showing at the Championships, where he was named in the All Australian team and at Colts level in WA with South Fremantle and that he will be ready and fit to compete in the Draft Combine in November, also considering seeing Fremantle’s need for a succession plan post Pavlich. As a key forward he demands the ball is quick off the mark and will provide a real spark inside a forward line. His pressure game is also welcome for a tall forward. Chases and harrases the opposition with ease and pressures the ball carrier. The concern for recruiters would be he is still raw in a physical sense and only started taking his football seriously this year. But the upside due to his natural talent and game judgment means he is a player with huge upside

Who else is in the mix: Darcy Hourigan, Jonathan Marsh, Darcy Gardiner (if available)


PICK 17: HAWTHORN - TRENT DUMONT

Height: 185cm
Weight: 87kg
Team/Club:Norwood
Player Comparison: Brad Sewell
Style: Nick Vlaustin

Dumont is regarded as a typical old school inside mid in the mould of would be team mate Brad Sewell but plays in the style of Nick Vlaustin in that he is versatile enough to float back. As a midfielder really thrives on the inside work. Racks up tackle and clearance stats, is strong bodied and often found burrowing packs and around stoppages. His work rate inside is exceptional, with a head over the ball approach he bustles through packs, and extracts to a team mate on the outside where his vision is rated highly. Is capable as an outside midfielder but does his best work amongst the stoppages. Dumont does some good things on the outside, but majority of his good work is at the coal-face in amongst the stoppages. As a defender he is solid off half back with a long kick making him another good HBF option at Hawthorn. A regular in Norwood’s best 22 in the SANFL his body is match hardened and can play straight away. Doesn’t fumble and is clean at ground level with disposal as well and has the tank to play a run with role if needed. The defined weakness in his game would be his kicking skills aren't elite on either side but that will be tidied up once in the AFL system

Who else is in the mix: Christian Salem, Blake Acres


PICK 18: GEELONG – KADE KOLODJASHNIJ

Height: 188cm
Weight: 76kg
Recruited from: Launceston
Player comparison: Grant Birchall

Kolodjashni’s game has developed massively in 2013, his run and carry in the Under 18 Championships was a highlight thus earning him a late call up to the 32 man AFL-AIS squad (when Luke McDonald chose not to be part of the squad, the only Tasmanian in the crop) and impressed when given the opportunity. Plays the back flanks well and led the way in Division 2 for rebound 50′s, with his left foot a weapon, slicing through opposition zones and penetrating well over 50m. In that way has been compared to Hawthorn and fellow Tasmanian Grant Birchall. His aerial ability
was a strong talking point, flying into and over packs to take defensive contested marks or leaving his man to kill the ball and contest. Has the number one disposal efficiency of any Division 2 player in the championships, his athleticism, ability to link up and play make, pace and confidence will see him be the most sought after Tasmanian draftee. Tied with teammate Toby Nankervis and Queensland’s Liam Dawson in the Harrison Medal (Davison 2 B&F), was Tasmania’s Most Valuable Player award and earned All Australian honours. The biggest defined weakness of his game would be that he is more of an outside receiver at the moment and doesn't enjoy being isolated in defence

Who else is in the mix: Billy Hartung, Blake Acres, Nicholas Robertson

 

[Turbocat]

Interesting group.

No Garlett ..being from WA should I read anything into that?

For Geelong , unless he is absolute dynomite inside mid I doubt we will take him. We really need KPBacks but as we all know you do go past Selwood to pick a Thorp just because you need talls.

How good is Cripps kicking , agility , overhead marking and ability to play other positions. These criteria are high on Wells KPI

 

[getgaff]

Interesting group.

No Garlett ..being from WA should I read anything into that?

For Geelong , unless he is absolute dynomite inside mid I doubt we will take him. We really need KPBacks but as we all know you do go past Selwood to pick a Thorp just because you need talls.

How good is Cripps kicking , agility , overhead marking and ability to play other positions. These criteria are high on Wells KPI

Turbocat for an inside mid his skills are above average and has outside class. Knowing Wells you'll probably get a diamond in the rough who turns out to be a gun plenty of time to go and we cant really tell what each club is chasing at the draft yet

On Garlett I'm sure he'll go but just not first round

 

[Turbocat]

Turbocat for an inside mid his skills are above average and has outside class. Knowing Wells you'll probably get a diamond in the rough who turns out to be a gun plenty of time to go and we cant really tell what each club is chasing at the draft yet

On Garlett I'm sure he'll go but just not first round

Ive been thinking on it , my first reaction was probably a bit against. We have a young inside with GeorgeHS and a couple others. But If we could have got Vlastuin id have jumped at him so perhaps you have it right

 

[Carbine Chaos]

Pick 9: West Coast - Matt Crouch

Crocuh is one of the better inside mids of the draft and hopefully will turn into a strong inside midfielder complimenting Shuey, Scott Selwood, Gaff and company. Specialising in the stoppages who tackles hard as well. Not as explosive as older brother Brad. His attributes are similar to Priddis which in some ways will hurt eg: kicking but for a pure inside ball player rates highly as one of the best in the draft

If we draft another butcher to add to the many we have in the midfield already I will cry.

 

[twce13]

If we draft another butcher to add to the many we have in the midfield already I will cry.

Would rather Bontempelli. Think he would be very useful for us down the road.

 

[Eastern Rangers]

If we draft another butcher to add to the many we have in the midfield already I will cry.

If we're overlooking Sheed we might as well over look Crouch and Billings as well.

 

[sydney eagle]

Would rather Bontempelli. Think he would be very useful for us down the road.

I agree I would rather have a pacy midfielder than another hard working inside type who can win the ball, but then can't do much with it.

 

[King Hansen]

Pick 6: North Melbourne F/S - Luke McDonald

McDonald's a bargain pick for North here.

So does this mean he would have gone at #1 otherwise? Pick 6 is still pretty high..or even if he worth say pick 4...its not really a bargain I wouldn't have thought.I would be happy to give up pick 9 or 10 for him if he is worth a top 4 pick.

 

[eaglespremiers]

You've got Freeman sliding into the 2nd round.
Will be interesting to see if he does.

 

[getgaff]

Done up a revised first round and working on my revised second round if anyone would look to comment

 

[TradeDraft]

Don't see McCarthy going top 10. For me he is between 20-30

 

[getgaff]

Don't see McCarthy going top 10. For me he is between 20-30

Thanks for the feedback. Time will tell obviously because we don't know if Brown is going to go around again and don't know what the Lions want with there first pick. They could even end up trading for pick 1 and get Tom Boyd

Whats your thoughts on Lennon to Collingwood?

 

[TJ1996]

No Sheed? I am disappoint. You're supposed to talk him up since you're from WA Shoulder injury seeing him slip?

Also, being an Easts supporter, where do you reckon Cripps and Marsh will go?

 

[Defacto]

loving your draft mate. i'd be wrapped with boyd. over the moon

 

[getgaff]

No Sheed? I am disappoint. You're supposed to talk him up since you're from WA Shoulder injury seeing him slip?

Also, being an Easts supporter, where do you reckon Cripps and Marsh will go?

Cripps and Marsh will probably be second round. Marsh will be on Fremantle's radar as will McCarthy if they can't nab Hourigan.

Sheed's an interesting one. If Brisbane don't go for a tall forward with there first pick I think they will be all over Sheed like a bad rash

Whats your thoughts on Kennedy - Harris to Hawthorn?

 

[Grockadoc]

Some interesting decisions there. You've got Hartung and Kennedy-Harris as first rounders, but no Dumont, Salem or Sheed, all of which will most likely be first rounders.

From a Tigers perspective, I'd be happy with Taylor as our side is pretty one paced at times, and apart from Deledio and Foley we don't really have any linebreakers. However, I would be disappointed if we passed over Dom Sheed. Would be the icing on top of our midfield and make it one of the best ones in the AFL.

 

[TJ1996]

Cripps and Marsh will probably be second round. Marsh will be on Fremantle's radar as will McCarthy if they can't nab Hourigan.

Sheed's an interesting one. If Brisbane don't go for a tall forward with there first pick I think they will be all over Sheed like a bad rash

Whats your thoughts on Kennedy - Harris to Hawthorn?

Some people know that I'm not JKH's biggest fan, but he might grow on me like Hill has. Can't stand those small one-dimensional forwards so when we got Hill from WP I wasn't happy, has grown on me with attack at the footy, but I think Hill has got that role covered for the next 6-8 years. Would like Acres if he's still available, or Salem.

 

[getgaff]

Some interesting decisions there. You've got Hartung and Kennedy-Harris as first rounders, but no Dumont, Salem or Sheed, all of which will most likely be first rounders.

From a Tigers perspective, I'd be happy with Taylor as our side is pretty one paced at times, and apart from Deledio and Foley we don't really have any linebreakers. However, I would be disappointed if we passed over Dom Sheed. Would be the icing on top of our midfield and make it one of the best ones in the AFL.

Thanks for the feedback Grockadock. Hartung and Kennedy - Harris I selected for Hawthorn and Sydney respectively as I believe they are more need based selections.

We all know the Swans have got a number of inside ball winning midfielders so I figured outsides speed in Hartung would be valuable for them.

Kennedy - Harris was a selection i did spend time considering. I considered Salem and Dumont for Hawthorn's selection and by draft day I might have him going to Hawthorn but in my opinion the knock on Hawthorn's lack of speed and one paced midfield wouldn't suit a player without eye catching pace. Salem and Dunstan probably the "safe" picks here in that physically they are a lot stronger than JKH but the potential X factor for JKH inside 50 is huge and down the line allows Rioli to spend more time further up the ground

As for Sheed I'm going to turn my back on the Cam McCarthy selection presuming that Brown stays on thus Sheed goes to the Lions at pick 7

 

[getgaff]

Some people know that I'm not JKH's biggest fan, but he might grow on me like Hill has. Can't stand those small one-dimensional forwards so when we got Hill from WP I wasn't happy, has grown on me with attack at the footy, but I think Hill has got that role covered for the next 6-8 years. Would like Acres if he's still available, or Salem.

It's a fair call you make on JKH there TJ1996. More of a risky 1st round selection than say Dumont or Salem but for a midfield that has been accused of it's "one paced" style I thought that drafting a player with speed would be necessary.

As a WA guy and Hawks fan what would be your thoughts on Dayle Garlett to Hawthorn at 18?

 

[getgaff]

My second round is ready to put up shortly

Recap of my first round

1: Matt Scharenberg (GWS)
2: James Aish (MEL)
3: Tom Boyd (ST. K)
4: Josh Kelly (WB)
5: Jack Billings (GOLD COAST) -
6: Luke McDonald (NORTH)
7: Dominic Sheed (BRIS)
8: Nathan Freeman (WCE)
9: Marcus Bontempelli (CARL)
10: Darcy Gardiner (GWS - Compensation)
11: Luke Dunstan (PAP)
12: Matt Crouch (ESS)
13: Ben Lennon (COLL)
14: Lewis Taylor (RICH)
15: Christian Salem (SYD)
16: Cameron McCarthy (FREM)
17: Trent Dumont (HAW)
18: Kade Koladjashnij (GEEL)

 

[getgaff]

PICK 20: GWS – ALEX SPINA

Height: 181cm
Weight: 74kg
Team/Club: North Adelaide
Player comparison: Luke Dahlhaus

Spina went into the National Championships rated highly but didn’t deliver to expectation over the 5 games. Is a damaging small forward who marks well inside 50 for a 6 foot player and has the smarts around goal to match it. The way he goes about playing inside 50 is not dissimilar to Dahlhaus from the Bulldogs in that he crumbs the ball so well and is a skilful user of the ball. Works his way out of traffic well and puts the ball to advantage. Plays that role of a small forward who adds an influence to a forward half. Gives his coolness under pressure he has shown potential as a midfielder who is athletic and agile. Was used through the middle in the Under 18’s (as requested by recruiters) and had a larger impact over a continued period than in his customary HFF role. Would bring a sense of flamboyancy and a fresh bag of tricks to a forward line already with Jeremy Cameron and Jonathan Patton and he finished well around the sticks to. Has massive upside to be a midfielder who can go forward rather than a midfield rotating forward.

The defined weakness in his game would be an under whelming showing in the National Champs away from his customary HFF role. He has SANFL experience behind him but and although he isn’t a huge possession winner his possessions are quality.


PICK 21: MELBOURNE –BILLY HARTUNG

Height: 176cm
Weight: 71kg
Team/Club: Dandenong Stingrays
Player comparison:Patrick Dangerfield

Hartung is arguably one of the quickest players in the draft and famously kicked 20 goals straight in an under 14′s game. His junior career has been up and down but going into the draft is considered one of the most exciting players on the table. Started the season with a 3 month lay-off due to finger surgery but hit back hard in the Under 18 Championships demonstrating his abilities as an endurance runner, with a huge appetite to run and carry with Patrick Dangerfield like bursts from stoppages, Hartung is high on excitement and would draw Melbourne fans to the footy. Small in stature but his weapon is breakaway speed, agility, pace and a deadly kick that proves damaging. Two-way running has become a bit of a buzz word (rightly so) and Hartung has this in spades highlighted by his 16+ beep test. For a player small on size he prides himself on his work at the stoppages where he is also a strong tackler and kept James Aish to 4 disposals in of the first half of there Under 18’s game, Will add excitement to the Demons if he makes it there, as an outside mid/ flank option where he is such a natural player but with the scope to go inside the stoppages and use his line breaking pace there.

The defined weakness in his game at the moment is the lack of inside game but naturally plays as an outside mid/ flank and shouldn't be moved far away from that


PICK 22: ST. KILDA – JAMES TSITAS

Height: 180cm
Weight: 77kg
Team/Club: Geelong Falcons
Player Comparison:Sam Mitchell

Tsitas (pronounced Chee-tas) has got to where he has in footy through hard work. Was the last player selected in his Under 16′s Vic Country side, but with his appetite for hard work he continued to slog away. Was eventually named the Vix Country MVP in 2011 and now has All Australian selection and and entry into the AFL-AIS squad to add to his CV. He is a typical old school inside midfielder in the modern era of AFL. A hard worker who loves the bash and crash and is a super competitor that draws team mates due to his contagious style of play. He sets the tone in games with his ferocity and tenacity, never one to shirk away from a contest and works his opponent over. A physical midfielder Tsitas also has plenty of footballing skill and uses the ball cleanly in traffic or space. Has frequently picked up numbers well over 30 in the TAC cup and is a natural ball winner and play maker off half back. With his body size and shape, endurance and good ball use he is also an option off half back or as a run with player for his chosen team. The most stimulating part of his game, is not only the physicality, but the appetite for defensive pressure, as well as intercepting opposition attacks across half back, and taking off quickly to set up further play. Has leadership potential down pat having co-captained Vic Country with Lewis Taylor in 2013.

The defined weakness in his game is kicking power but he is solid over no more than 40 metres and like an older school midfielder tends to play conservative more often that wanting to take the game on. Needs to back his judgement


PICK 23: WESTERN BULLDOGS – DARCY HOURIGAN

Height: 191cm
Weight: 93kg
Team/Club:South Adelaide
Player comparison: Jack Darling

Hourigan is a brute size and a clever pick if Brisbane can land him at pick 26. Hourigan was the leading goal kicker at the Under 18 championships snagging 16 goals in 5 games in a dominant display leading to All Australian honours. At 190cm he’s not a tall key forward but like Jack Darling who he has been compared to he certainly plays like one. On the lead is super quick out of the blocks which a burst of speed over the first 20 to 40 metres and marks strongly out in front particularly overhead and is a powerful kick going from outside the 50m arc with ease. When isolated deep forward he has the strength to out body his defender and protects the drop zone bringing his smaller forward into the game. What stands out with Hourigan is his burst of speed when on the lead and his capacity to push back if required.

The weakness is Hourigan’s game would be his endurance levels and the need to improve that so that he can push up higher to the flanks and wings from deep full forward. The lucky club who get him will need to trim him down for him to become more mobile and maybe push through the middle given his smaller size for a KPF.


PICK 24: GOLD COAST– JAMES BATTERSBY

Height: 177cms
Weight: 78kgs
Team/Club: Sturt
Player Comparison: Hamish Hartlett

Battersby is arguably the biggest bolter of the 2013 draft. Before the Under 18 championships SA had a perceived weakness in their side which was they didn’t have a real small defender not someone who could shut down the dangerous opposition small forwards. ENTER Battersby who made the role his own and was consistently named amongst the best for SA not only keeping his opponent quiet but also rebounding well ultimately being named an All Australian. Has SANFL league experience with Sturt and has developed well in there midfield as an inside player particularly in the stoppages and hasn’t been afraid to get down and dirty. Prefers to play as more of a rebounding defender he has proved to be handy in a lock down role and the Suns are in a situation where they don’t have any real small defenders capable of locking down on an opposition small forward and it’s normally a mid-size defender playing short. Disciplined enough to play a tight checking and physical game but not afraid to roll of his opponent either forcing the forward to be accountable.

The weakness in his game as a midfielder would be that he sometimes is too “handball happy”, and rushes his disposal with a knack to play on more often than go back and take his kick


PICK 25: NORTH MELBOURNE – JAY KENNEDY – HARRIS

Height: 173cm
Weight: 68kgs
Team/Club: Oakleigh
Player Comparision: Jeff Garlett/Andrew Krakouer/Michael Walters

What Kennedy-Harris lacks in size he makes up for in excitement and x factor whenever he has the ball in his hand. Has the pace to excite in the forward line but in 2013 has developed a midfielder’s engine. He won’t win lots of possessions but it’s the quality of his touches that matter. Knows where his strengths and backs those strengths in more often than not in taking the game on, playing on quickly, creating end to end plays or finishing in front of goal. Is a trailblazer for indigenous players in the TAC Cup as he was the first ever indigenous player to be named captain/ co-captain of their club side which is a big achievement and speaks volumes of his leadership capability. Foot skills are highly regarded and hits his targets with minimum of fuss. Also has that defensive forward element to his game sticking tackles and causing turnovers inside 50. Not dissimilar to Andrew Krakouer in that he ignites and inspires his team mates with his x factor and when playing forward has that distinctive ability to side step, duck and weave around bewildered defenders. Just makes things happen.

The defined weakness in his game would be that he is still raw in size and as a small forward can drift in and out of games


PICK 26: BRISBANE– JONATHAN MARSH

Height: 191cm
Weight: 89kg
Team/Club: East Fremantle
Player comparison: Jack Darling as a forward

Marsh is younger brother of Sydney’s Harry but they are two very different players. Harry more of outside player but Jonathan with his bigger size is suited more to a tall forward or inside midfielder role. For a guy who stands about 6’4 in the old scale he has Marsh has incredible pace and can play like a midfielder. Only took playing CHF seriously in 2013. Had a strong 18’s carnival highlighted by a 22 disposal and 4 goal game against Division 2 side Northern Territory. Given his size and x factor he is hard for an opposition defender to control and that’s without his pace on the lead making him tougher still. Coming from a more midfield background is excellent below his knees, strong through the hips and is a very strong overhead mark. As a forward his position would be more suited to a forward flank as a third tall than at a key post but is such a creative type that he will add substance to any forward structure. Has the scope to push into the midfield or a rebounding defender and adapts well accordingly.

His versatility and potential are huge but the weakness in his game is endurance running which will need developing if he is to play more outside roles even as a high CHF


PICK 27: WEST COAST –NICHOLAS ROBERTSON

Height:188cm
Weight: 83kg
Team/Club: WA/West Perth/Joondalup Kinross JFC
Player Comparision: Beau Waters

Robertson had an interrupted pre-season and end to 2012 due to a shoulder injury but his form in 2013 has made him one of the more productive and damaging footballers in the 2013 WAFL Colts competition. Has an insatiable appetite for the footy, loves the contested stuff and like Beau Waters as a defender he is willing to put his body on the line and back into packs. Already has a solid body that would see him get opportunities early in the pre-season to prove his worth to a team. The standout feature of his game that makes him stand out the most is his attacking game when released off half back where he competes well in the air and is lively when given space. His defensive (shut down) game is always of first importance to him and he still has the ability to contain his opponent while proving damaging on rebound. Has played the most of his junior career off half back but with his high endurance levels, hardness at the footy and the man where he isn’t afraid to show aggression, to go with neat skills by hand and foot he has the attributes to play through the midfield. Considered to be more of an outside player of a HBF for now where he can play his natural attacking game and break lines and zones with his run.

The weakness in his game would be his kicking skills are neat without being elite as yet and there are weaknesses in his midfield game which he would need to adjust to become a better rotation option through the middle

Why West Coast: After hopefully snagging Freeman as a key inside midfielder in Round 1 of the draft what stood out like dog’s balls to me was the versatility of Nicholas Robertson. Is rated highly going into the draft and his club could be known already by our 2nd round but if his available I think he would suit the team well. The fact that he would be a local selection is greater incentive to bite the bullet with him. Other considerations here are Patrick Cripps, Dayle Garlett and Dwayne Wilson

 

[eaglespremiers]

Where's pick 19?

 

[getgaff]

Where's pick 19?

Well spotted. Blake Acres and profile is coming shortly