Competition Season 31 Rookie Gun of the Year - What are the chances?

[FootyGuy13]

Ah, a new season, a new dawn and a new batch of rookies ready to be shown just how random the Sim is.

Hi, I am a Shouty Man, and I’m here to tell you about how the Season 31 Gun of the Year Award is gonna go down.


Thank You tony.

Each round, rookies selected in their team’s squad will get put through the Sim and be challenged to get more DreamTeam points than their counterparts. The 4 rookies with the most Adjusted DreamTeam points will then be reported back and 1 will be judged to be that week’s Gun nom. This means posting numbers will have no effect on this, but certainly helps to have a better position (for some teams).

At the end of the Home and Away season, the 17 weekly nominees will form the S31 All-Rook squad. The rookie with the most Adjusted DreamTeam points among them will be deemed the Top Gun.

Both the All-Rook squad and the Top Gun winner will be announced during the Rising Star Award Night.​

 

[FootyGuy13]

Hello! It is I, FootyGuy13 (winner of the Goose Award, Top Gun Award, All-Rook Captain, R12 Gun nom and R13 Torch nom in Season 30), back again to answer some questions no one asked about.


I. HOW DOES THE “GUN OF THE YEAR” WORK?

Every round, the player with the most Adjusted DreamTeam points from each line (Mids, Backs, Forwards and WildCard) may become candidate for the award.

Then, the Rising Star Committee will pick one among the candidates to be the Gun nomination (or Gun nom), considering the players contribution to their teams in that particular round. The winner will be announced prior to the following round.


II. HOW DOES THE TOP GUN AWARD AND THE ALL-ROOK SQUAD WORK?

Those are cumulative. Player’s Adjusted DreamTeam (ADT) points during the season are added up. The player with the most ADT points wins the Top Gun.

Those among the Top-20 who weren’t a Gun nom, they also receive the title of Gun. Their names will be announced during the Rising Star Night.

If the All-Rook squad ends up with more than 20 players, those with less ADT points will be named as All-Rook emergencies. Players will be fielded in the line-up preferably in their most common positions. If not possible, than, in a position or a line that they have played. The order for fielding will be decided primarily by the amount of ADT points. Players may be fielded in a strange position to complete the All-Rook side.


III. WHAT DO YOU MEAN “ADJUSTED DREAMTEAM POINTS”?

Okay, so the Sim gives out a DreamTeam score based on how many kicks, tackles, goals you get in that game with the amount you get in those categories dependent on what position you play

Basically, it is the DT score multiplied by a determined adjusting factor depending on the position in which the player is listed for a particular round. These are the positions and their respective factors:



Thus, it doesn’t matter much where one plays. Everybody has a fair shot at the prize.


IV. HOW ARE THE NOMINEES FOR THE ROUND CHOSEN?

Every round, every player gets ranked from Most ADT points to least. They are then split into the 3 positional categories of Midfield (RR, R, W, C and Ro), Back (HBF, CHB, FB and BP) and Forward (HFF, CHF, FF and FP). Each player that tops the 3 categories becomes a candidate to be chosen for the nomination. The remaining players (including the Interchange players) then go for the 4th WildCard spot. Whoever has the most ADT points out of those remaining gets that 4th spot.

There is a catch; you have to get more than 75 ADT points. Should any category fail to have anyone score those 75 ADT points, another WildCard spot will be created to fill the absence.

Consider, if you will, this:



In this, the player with the most ADT points came from the Back Pocket and scored 46 DT points. Terrible for some positions, but awesome for the Back Pocket. You’ll also see that the WildCard player had more ADT points than the Midfield player. That’s because he was good enough to be in the Top 4, but not the best forward (and yes, the WildCard player could be the top scorer if they started on the bench). Of the 22 players, 9 were eligible candidacy with every category covered.

DUE NOTE: The player given the Gun nom in the example might not necessarily be the player with the most ADT points. The 4 candidates would be looked at and it would actually be more likely that Player 2 got the Gun nom. But I don’t know the opinions of the other S30 people so ¯\_(ツ)_/¯.

If enough S30 people start complaining that the person they would’ve voted didn’t get a candidacy, depending on team affiliation, I will begrudgingly give them the WildCard spot instead (because I betcha this will happen, like, once).

It doesn’t matter much where one plays. Everybody has a fair shot at the prize.


V. CAN ANY ROOKIE GET THE AWARD?

It’s simples. One just needs to post once in his team's match thread before the final siren. Otherwise, his adjusting factor that week is “0”; regardless of his position or score. If the Rising Star Committee misses a late entry, it's up for the rookie to point it out.

For the Top Gun and the All-Rook squad, there is no minimum of posts required. Every performance during the season will count for the final ladder with all factors taken into account.

 

[FootyGuy13]

List of Nominees:

Automatic Nomination: sausageroll (MBD)
Nominated Round 1: FishingRick04 (SCS)
Nominated Round 2: GREENESHOOTS (FUR)
Nominated Round 3: Heardy_101 (MBD)
Nominated Round 4: Grimesy87 (GUM)
Nominated Round 5: BringBackTheAnchor (DRA)
Nominated Round 6: Freo_4eva (ROY)
Nominated Round 7: wherearemykeys (GUM) - Entered Round 5
Nominated Round 8:
Nominated Round 9:
Nominated Round 10:
Nominated Round 11:
Nominated Round 12:
Nominated Round 13:
Nominated Round 14:
Nominated Round 15:
Nominated Round 16:
Nominated Round 17:
---------------------------------------------
Yet to be nominated:

Here2tellyouwhy (BAG)
HereComesJuddy (BAG)
Jabba73 (BAG)
Judd_Magic (BAG)
DockerDen5215 (CIW)
Rad Roo (CIW)
andleanback (ESH)
Zoops (ESH)
Grrr (FUR)
Mrs haydo (FUR)
Gadzorks (GCR) - Entered Round 2
bl4ke (LVB)
Cuzz09 (LVB)
Dupogi (LVB)
indoistriku (LVB)
kazzfkh (LVB)
Aristotle Pickett (ROY)
WaywardSonSon (ROY)
Wedgetailed Westerner (ROY)
Zevon (ROY)
Catsnlakers (SCS)
powerrrrrrrrrrrr (SCS)
mezaire (WCW)
Off Tap (WCW)

 

[FootyGuy13]

ROUND 1 CANDIDATES

Defender of the Week - Rad Roo (CIW) - ADT 125.16
Alright, so kazzfkh was actually the rookie Defender to have the most ADT this week, but since they doesn't have a post in their match thread and Rad Roo posted once...

Rad Roo started off in the Back Pocket, which is interesting since he has a goal to his name. Must have had a laser-guided boot that made the coach think "What if we used that toward our goals, instead of away from their goals?" Over the course of the match, Rad Roo ended up on 5 different opponents, with the sim deeming him the winner of the 2 match-ups in the last quarter. Along with the goal, Rad Roo also recorded 3 tackles and 8 kicks. A quiet game if you weren't a rookie, but a good start for Rad Roo to get him further down the field (Though the 2 day-offs during the week makes me want to know what happens when he posts more than once).

Midfielder of the Week - Off Tap (WCW) - ADT 92.34
In a first-round win for the new-look Wonders, it should be no surprise that A) their winger did better than average and that B) their winger was a rookie. Off Tap was a handball merchant ending with 15 of his 22 disposals being by hand, as well as 5 marks, 3 tackles and a goal. They dominated their opponent while they were on the wing, maybe a bit too much as they needed a break during the end of the 3rd quarter and a chunk of the 4th before quietly finishing the game. Off tap was 1 of only 3 rooks to start in the midfield and this performance maybe the start of other clubs experimenting doing the same rook plan (or maybe it's posting).

Forward of the Week - DockerDen5215 (CIW) - ADT 132.93
Now onto the only candidate that stayed in their starting position the entire game. DockerDen on the Half-Forward Flank, not only had a great game by rookie standards, but also had a great game compared to everyone else on the field. Ending the day with 20 disposals, 3 goals 7 marks and 4 Frees Against, DockerDen showed that there was some bite to that bark by getting the most DreamTeam points of any rookie this week. Of course that's helped by being in the position I started off playing last season, so maybe this isn't the last time we see DockerDen have his name in lights for the Gun Award this season.

WildCard for the Week - FishingRick04 (SCS) - ADT 142.92
Unfortunately for DockerDen, most DT points doesn't mean most ADT points. They were 2 possible choices for the WildCard spot as they were 1 and 2 for having the most ADT points, and both came off the Bench (much to the delight of Headless). Only 1 could be WildCard however, and FishingRick just managed to score more than BringBackTheAnchor. In a mud-riddled game, you'd think getting 47 DT points off the Half-Forward Flank would be telling of how hard it was to get the ball and move it. But when you're a Bench player, you take anything, and FishingRick managed to do enough in terrible conditions to outshine, not only the rookies in the game, but all the rookies in the league. They even managed to kick 2 goals off 6 kicks and other assorted stats listed here:

Will dominating the stats board win it for DockerDen, or will FishingRick's contribution in the mud off the bench be enough to sway the voters. Maybe it'll be Roaming Rad Roo with his ability to play at both ends or will it be Off Tap handballing himself into contention.
WHO DO YOU THINK IS GOING TO BE S31’S FIRST “GUN”?​

 

[FootyGuy13]

​

Round 1 of the season has arrived and the winners have been decided. The rookies had their stand-outs that went into 2 categories; they were either from the Warriors or they started on the Bench. Torch winner DockerDen5215 topped the stats board for the rookies with a 20 disposal-3 goal game while Rad Roo ‘s 1 post made him more eligible for candidacy over the Bears kazzfkh. The top scoring players when adjusted for position however where 2 players that didn’t even start the game on the field, and while BringBackTheAnchor wasn’t that far off from getting candidacy himself, he fell short of the person who has gotten the Round 1 Gun nomination.​

​

FishingRick04 had to wait until late in the 1st quarter to join in the action, and had an immediate effect on the game.​

​

1 : 22.12 {rHBF} - MrPremiership slowing down the play.

1 : 22.19 {rHBF} - MrPremiership is crunched in a tackle.​

1 : 22.25 {CHF} - The ball is now with SarahSmiles.​

1 : 22.31 {rFP} - LukeParkerno1 calls for it.​

1 : 22.37 {rFP} - Over the head of LukeParkerno1.​

1 : 22.43 {rFP} - Running with the ball is LukeParkerno1.​

1 : 22.49 - <<< FishingRick04 is coming on to replace Sparkle >>>​

1 : 23.02 {rFP} - Who wants it? LukeParkerno1 does. Great stuff.​

1 : 23.08 {rFP} - LukeParkerno1 - about 45 metres and not much angle.​

1 : 23.14 {rFP} - Fades away to the left. One behind to the score.​

Gold City Royals : 1.2.8​

Sin City Swamprats : 2.1.13​

1 : 23.25 {FB} - The ball is now with Noobz0r.​

1 : 23.31 {lBP} - Handballs to Easty.​

1 : 23.37 {rBP} - Passes to Noobz0r by hand.​

1 : 23.43 {FB} - Blacky receives his handpass.​

1 : 23.49 {FB} - GreyCrow runs past and takes the handpass.​

1 : 23.55 {rHBF} - A kick towards MrPremiership territory.​

1 : 24.01 {rHBF} - No-one can take the mark.​

1 : 24.08 {lHFF} - FishingRick04 has it. What can he do with it?. ​

1 : 24.14 {lHFF} - Don't tell me he's kicked it... DON'T TELL ME.... ​

1 : 24.21 {lHFF} - That's one of those special goals. Number 1 for FishingRick04. ​

Gold City Royals : 1.2.8​

Sin City Swamprats : 3.1.19​

Off the bench and straight into the play, FishingRick saw the ball rebound towards him and went straight to kicking towards the goal becoming part of the group of players that scored a goal off their first kick.​

Though he wasn’t even finished there when early in the 2nd…​

​

2 : 3.42 {C} - The kick seeks out ShaunDuggan.

2 : 3.48 {C} - But the kick goes straight to GotTheGoodes.​

2 : 3.54 {C} - GotTheGoodes signals for his teammates to present.​

2 : 4 {rHFF} - Sees GremioPower ahead and sends it his way.​

2 : 4.07 {rHFF} - GremioPower uses his body to perfection and reels in the mark.​

2 : 4.13 {rHFF} - GremioPower looking for a lead.​

2 : 4.19 {lHFF} - He transfers play using FishingRick04. ​

2 : 4.25 {lHFF} - FishingRick04 uses his body to perfection and reels in the mark. ​

2 : 4.31 {lHFF} - FishingRick04 takes off. ​

2 : 4.37 {lHFF} - FishingRick04 dummy's the handpass and then takes a bounce. ​

2 : 4.44 {lHFF} - FishingRick04 has latched onto a torp!. ​

2 : 4.5 {lHFF} - It's a goal. FishingRick04 has 2. ​

Gold City Royals : 2.2.14​

Sin City Swamprats : 4.1.25​

Whether or not his second goal was better than his first, you be the judge, but this guy was racking up quite the highlight reel and he had only been on the field for 7 minutes!

Other highlights include;​

​

2 : 9.45 {rW} - MannumPower with a little space.

2 : 9.51 {lHFF} - The kick seeks out FishingRick04. ​

2 : 9.57 {lHFF} - But he picks out the opposition.​

2 : 10.03 {rHBF} - MrPremiership looks downfield.​

2 : 10.09 {rHBF} - He's brought down by FishingRick04. ​

2 : 21.25 {CHB} - Handpasses to GreyCrow.

2 : 21.29 {CHB} - He takes the opportunity to bounce.​

2 : 21.36 {rHBF} - Kick goes sideways.​

2 : 21.42 {rHBF} - Spoilt by FishingRick04. ​

2 : 21.47 {rHBF} - MrPremiership with some space now.​

2 : 21.53 {rHBF} - MrPremiership is crunched in a tackle.​

2 : 22 {lHFF} - FishingRick04 turns on the afterburners - look at him go. ​

2 : 22.06 {FF} - Gets hands off within the nick of time.​

2 : 22.12 {FF} - Hatchy1992 has a shot at goal.​

2 : 22.19 {FF} - The umpires are checking if that shaved the post... and signal the affirmative..​

Gold City Royals : 3.2.20​

Sin City Swamprats : 6.5.41​

3 : 16.04 {rW} - MannumPower has possession.

3 : 16.1 {lHFF} - He kicks towards FishingRick04 and MrPremiership. ​

3 : 16.16 {lHFF} - Ohhh FishingRick04! You beauty! Sensational grab. ​

4 : 24.49 {rHBF} - Kicks in the direction of MrPremiership.

4 : 24.53 {rHBF} - That's an extraordinary juggled one-hander to FishingRick04. ​

SIREN SOUNDS FOR THE END OF QUARTER 4 ​

Now this would be where I interview the captain and rookie in some sort of late night talk show host spin-off, but with current restrictions, the only time we were able to be in the one spot was for a spot of fishing.

So there we were in the car driving to FishingRick’s spot when my phone starting pinging, it was GremioPower wanting to know why the Gun nom post hadn’t come out yet. Before I could answer, FishingRick parked near the local bait shop to get “some gear”. While he was inside, I took this opportunity to talk to philreich. ​

FG: Hey phil, congrats on the opening round win in the sloppy mud and to have one of you recruits be the first nominated for the Gun of the Week. How does it feel?​

phil: It makes me a very proud skipper. Rick has already been great for us, and I'm expecting big things from him for the rest of the season.​

FG: Congrats on getting FishingRick over to the Swampies. Where did you find him, and how is he settling in?​

phil: Not gonna lie (which makes a refreshing change) - we had outside help. Dingster helped several teams with their recruits in the off season, and we were one of those teams. The man deserves to be in the SFA Hall of Fame, purely on the back of his ability to recruit new people to the league.​

FG: He’s a loveable character that Dingster, though you had Rick starting on the bench. Will that change soon or will he the team's Bench specialist? Basically, what are your on-field aspirations for Rick?​

phil: We're only heading into round 2 of a very long season, so who knows what will change between now and the end of the season? But if he keeps kicking 2 goals every week, coming off the bench, we can't ask anything more from him.​

FG: It certainly was a great performance. I know there's other rookies at Sin City this year, how have they been going themselves?​

phil: Opposition teams can already testify to the fact that Catsnlakers and powerrrrrrrrrrrr have assumed the role of serial pests, which is fine by me – if the opponent is unsettled by it, that’s what you want, right?​

FG: Right, every team needs them. And now that we're into the season and we've seen what rookies every other team has, are there any other rookies that you wish you had gotten your hands on that go alright at qooty?​

phil: Zevon was one that every team was chasing, but like a Wonders midfielder, we weren't quick enough.​

Before I could reply, something green flashed inside the bait shop before FishingRick came rushing out of the store with bits and bobs I didn’t recognise (I don’t go fishing) and quickly starting the car up and booking it out of there. On the way to the spot, an unusual amount of cop cars went racing past but we thought nothing of it.​

We finally got there, set everything up and went out on the jetty, all the while my phone was going berserk from all the pings GremioPower was sending me. FishingRick threatened to chuck my phone in the water so I set on silent. After a while of just sitting there, I decided it was time to talk to the rookie.​

​

FG: Hey FishingRick! Congratulations on being the first Gun of the Week nomination of Season 31. You must be pleased with how you went in the game, especially in such conditions. What path did you take to get to the SFA, and where did you first hear about it?​

FR: A long time bigfooty follower I kept an eye on Fantasy footy from afar. With my random posting on the Port board after 14 years I guess I finally got noticed by the recruiters. They asked if I’d join their team and I said yes.​

Coming up against a big long time over hyped rival I just wanted to perform. The coach started me on the bench after my poor goal in the Kicking trial so I knew I had to raise the bar​

FG: And raise the bar you did! What are your first impressions of the Underground? Is phil, Gremio and the rest of the Swamprats looking after you?​

FR: My teammates are amazing. At first the towel flick in the showers was a bit odd, but then I learnt how to bend properly it gelled together.​

FG: …okay, how do you prepare for a qooty match? Did you think you were going to be a chance of getting the nomination this week after seeing your starting position?​

FR: Coming off the bench I knew I had to hit the game hard. I usually have my finger stretching exercises to warm up and glasses cleaned and ready. With my talent there’s always a chance to win.​

FG: You certainly help with the win. What would you like to achieve on the field during your SFA career?​

FR: I wanted to be the greatest player ever. I know I am but it’s time to show it!​

FG: Have there been any other teams that have stood out for you on the field, or players that you model your qooty on?​

FR: No, the other teams are a rabble and a disgrace. When I’m the best I don’t need to compare.​

FG: Who else do you think will win the Gun of the Year, and the overall Rising Star? Reckon you’re a shot?​

FR: Close the book I’ve already won. There is no one else.​

At this point my phone started vibrating. It was GremioPower calling. At this point, Fishing Rick pulled out some sort of gun, shot out what turned out to be a green portal and shoved me through it. When I picked myself up, the portal was gone and I was at the feet of GremioPower, who said “You know, you could’ve said you were with FishingRick instead of ignoring my texts. Now hurry up with the Round 1 Gun nom announcement.”​

Well, first I had to book a flight from Brazil to get back home, but hopefully this pleases him.​

 

[FootyGuy13]

ROUND 2 CANDIDATES

Defender of the Week - Zoops (ESH) - ADT 110.20
The East Side Hawks had a near 5-goal win over the Furies which took players having big DT scores in the Midfield to pull off. The Hawk with the biggest numbers outside that midfield, however, was Zoops on the Half-Back Flank. Zoops had such a great start to the match, the Furies had to swap his opponent out before it got ugly. Did it work? Well, the sim thought so, but then again Zoops wouldn't be the best Rookie down the back this week if their opponent did their job. With 9 marks, 9 kicks and a couple of tackles, Zoops must be happy with the way they contributed to the team on Sunday.

Midfielder of the Week - Aristotle Pickett (ROY) - ADT 84.22
If there's something in the SFA that regulars would consider an oxymoron, it would be the phrase "Roys Rookie". But Artistotle Pickett shows that there is a spring in their step when they pull on the maroon, especially as one of two rooks that started in the midfield. They certainly aren't making up numbers here though, despite the loss during the week, Aristotle did their best with 5 tackles and 5 Free Kicks alongside 8 kicks, 10 handballs and 2 goals. It takes a lot of guts to take on the opposing captain and that what Aristotle has, doing well enough for the sim to notice.

Forward of the Week - Heardy_101 (MBD) - ADT 134.81
It's just that Aristotle lost by nearly 7 goals, which brings us to the curious case of Heardy_101. Heardy got the most ADT of any non-nominated rookie this week, thanks to being played in the Forward Pocket (the position that gives you the biggest multiplier). Heardy was also looking like they were going to go through that match with donuts, having not gotten a stat before getting subbed late in the 1st. When they came back on the field, Heardy was put on the Half-Back Flank, and that's when they got started. While their stats might look diminishing; Heardy had an alright game for a HBF, which is impressive for someone who got put in the worst position as well as benched, doing his bit towards ending Mount Buller's winning drought.

WildCard for the Week - GREENESHOOTS (FUR) - ADT 128.55
Which brings us to the game mentioned earlier. Zoops was formidable in defence, but what happened to the Hawks other HBF? They got put on GREENESHOOTS. From start to finish, GREENESHOOTS did all he could to keep the Furies in the thick of it, but when you're on, you are on and that's true for stand out players on the losing side as well. We all can't be winners but we can certainly make the task harder for them with GREENESHOOTS amassing 7 kicks, 9 marks, a whopping 16 handballs and other assorted stats listed here:


2 games, 4 candidates, 1 nom. Will it be GREENESHOOTS with a dominant display up forward? Will Heardy or Zoops get the nom from down back? Or will Aristotle show he isn't just there for show and notch it from under everyone's noses?
WHO DO YOU THINK IS GOING TO BE THIS WEEK'S "GUN"?​

 

[FootyGuy13]

I should point out that this is always going to be coming out on a Saturday. It lets those answering questions plenty of time to answer, it allows me enough time to do something in case something else comes up, it pings at rookies the day before the next round occurs and it seems to really annoy GremioPower.

Since you know that now, we can look at Round 2. With every week, more and more rookies are being played at the Half-Forward position, as if their inactivity will change if they get put into that role. What’s worse is that it’s sorta working. Aristotle Pickett and Zoops may have gotten candidacy, but due to the sheer amount of rookies playing up forward, they technically didn’t finish Top 6 for the round. Lastly, of the 2 forwards on top, one player stayed up forward while the other did nothing in his initial spot and got moved to the back of the field. So, sorry Heardy_101, the Round 2 Gun nomination went to…

​

GREENESHOOTS was voted the best rookie of the week, despite suffering a loss to one of the other rookies. Have a look at these highlights.

When he wouldn’t let the ball leave the Forward 50 until the Furies got a goal.

1 : 3.09 {CHB} - eth-dog looking for a lead.
1 : 3.13 {lHBF} - A long looping handpass to NinjaSwan.
1 : 3.17 {lHBF} - NinjaSwan is chased down by GREENESHOOTS - great effort!.
1 : 3.19 {CHF} - TJASTA looks downfield.
1 : 3.23 {CHF} - He has a bounce.
1 : 3.27 {FF} - That kick is a real floater.
1 : 3.31 {FF} - Atrocious kick. Not even kilometre perfect.
1 : 3.33 {rBP} - Nobody's checking TY24.
1 : 3.38 {lHBF} - A flat punt.
1 : 3.42 {lHBF} - That's poor kicking and the mark is swallowed up by GREENESHOOTS.
1 : 3.46 {rHFF} - GREENESHOOTS has it. What can he do with it?.
1 : 3.52 {rHFF} - A wild handball - but luckily Mister M was well placed to clean up.
1 : 3.52 {FF} - He rewards the Elton Johns Wig lead.
1 : 3.58 {FF} - Great mark! No! The umpire calls play on.
1 : 4 {FF} - Elton Johns Wig breaks a tackle and is off.
1 : 4.04 {FF} - Elton Johns Wig goes for goal.
1 : 4.07 {FF} - Elton Johns Wig likes it and so does the goal umpire.
Fighting Furies FFC : 1.0.6
East Side Hawks : 1.0.6

This tackle, one of many on his opponent.

2 : 13.37 {lHBF} - NinjaSwan picks it up on the bounce.
2 : 13.39 {lHBF} - Great tackle on NinjaSwan.
2 : 13.43 {rHFF} - Not enough pressure on GREENESHOOTS.
2 : 13.49 {CHF} - Gets a handpass away to TJASTA.

You don’t see enough crumbing efforts these days.

2 : 22.37 {rHBF} - With the ball is Zoops.
2 : 22.39 {rHBF} - Smashed by ChappyUK.
2 : 22.45 {rHFF} - GREENESHOOTS scoops up the ball.

There’s a reason why Greene is in his username.

3 : 5.46 {FB} - Biggie slowing down the play.
3 : 5.49 {lHBF} - A measured kick to NinjaSwan.
3 : 5.54 {lHBF} - GREENESHOOTS plants a foot on NinjaSwan's neck and takes a screamer.

An intercepting mark that led to a goal.

3 : 7.3 {CHB} - Long handpass to the running Chipmunk.
3 : 7.33 {lHBF} - A wild kick laterally towards NinjaSwan.
3 : 7.34 {lHBF} - GREENESHOOTS is in the way and will mark.
3 : 7.39 {rHFF} - GREENESHOOTS wants to get on with proceedings.
3 : 7.45 {CHF} - He involves TJASTA in the play.
3 : 7.47 {CHF} - TJASTA bombs it into the forward line.
3 : 7.49 {CHF} - Top goal.
Fighting Furies FFC : 10.5.65
East Side Hawks : 9.6.60

Finally, finishing the game with a great grab.

4 : 12.5 {lW} - A quick handpass to Rioli8217.
4 : 12.52 {rHFF} - That's a real up and under.
4 : 12.54 {rHFF} - I can't believe GREENESHOOTS held on to that. What a mark.

Better make that two.

4 : 22.04 {lW} - A long looping handpass to Lady Godava.
4 : 22.06 {lW} - Handpass over the shoulder to Piggy Smalls.
4 : 22.08 {rHFF} - That kick makes it hard for GREENESHOOTS.
4 : 22.12 {rHFF} - A very good mark to GREENESHOOTS.

Now onto the part that you're here for. I caught up with Tigerturbulance at Kittens after he got back from camping. Since we had a rookie with us, we had to make do with the rookie's table in the alleyway next to the establishment.

​

Luckily, Turbo has an inflatable hot tub wherever he goes so we just used that instead. GREENESHOOTS still had to use the rookie's table though.

FG: Hey Turbo, despite the loss on the weekend, you have one of your recruits be nominated for the Gun of the Week. How does it feel?
TT: Only surprised it took this long.

FG: Congrats on getting GREENESHOOTS over to the Furies. Where did you find him, and how is he settling in?
TT: Bastyy hangs around some seedy places and apparently came across him in some degenerate farm pr0n crack house, so I knew straight away he would be a perfect fit at the Furies. GREENESHOOTS has settled in well and made himself at home in the dumpster and doesn't b*tch about cleaning the visitors crappers.

FG: He's been handy for you guys at Half-Forward, what are your on-field aspirations for GS?
TT: With a name like GREENESHOOTS I knew he had to be a natural qoal kicker, that combined with his youth and fitness led to the selectors putting him in as HFF, a position requiring qoal sense and the ability to cover a fair bit of paddock. Besides TJASTA is our CHF and is a lazy campaigner who need the qooty feed to him to make him look good, fortunately GREENESHOOTS is up for the job of flogging the opposition CHB as well as helping TJ look good.

FG: I know there's other rookies at Hippodrome this year, how have they been going themselves?
TT: Grrr discovered our goon making facility so doesn't make any sense at all

Mrs haydo has been a good pickup and plays HBF and is being mentored by Lady Godava at CHB on how to flog the fancy oppo FWDS. Mrs haydo has to put up with haydo on a regular basis, so we knew she could handle SFA flogs and be a professional qooty player.

FG: Now that we're into the season and we've seen what rookies every other team has, are there any other rookies that you wish you had gotten your hands on that go alright at qooty?
TT: what there are more than the 3 we got?

Before I could correct him, GREENESHOOTS managed to distract me long enough to remind me that he was there.

FG: Hey GREENESHOOTS! Congratulations on the nomination even though you didn't get the win. You must be pleased with how you went in the game. What path did you take to get to the SFA, and where did you first hear about it?
GS: The half forward flank is a difficult position to play, thankfully our midfield was dominant so I was able to find a lot of the footy, the Hawks defence was terrible so I was afforded a lot of space to run down the flanks and find our other forwards.

Bastyy asked me to join the Furies for this season, on account of my ****posting on the bay, I was honoured to join such a prestigious club. When I saw theclub video showing how the Furies go about it I knew they were an elite club and their kit colours are very nice too.

I heard about it in previous seasons when Bombers and another side asked me to join but their teams did not appeal to me.

FG: What are your first impressions of the place? Is Turbo, TJASTA and the rest of the Furies looking after you?
GS: Turbo and the crew have a great culture and obviously Turbo is an elite poster.
It was a tough pre season with Ned sending me to the dumpster but after I got used to TJASTA telling me to fu** off all the time I started to settle in.

FG: How do you prepare for a qooty match? Did you think you were going to be a chance of getting the nomination this week with the amount of rookies that are playing forward?
GS: I take a trip to the mountains were I train for 10 hours the day before the match, then I print out avatars of my opponents and think about how I can outQooty them.

For me all I can worry about is my performance and playing my role for the team any accolades I get our an honour but ultimately out of my control.

FG: What would you like to achieve on the field during your SFA career?
GS: First of all I would like to play deeper in the forward line, as the flanks requiring a lot of running and I prefer to sit closer to goal.
My Photo editing skills require a lot of work to catch up to other posters.

FG: Have there been any other teams that have stood out for you on the field, or players that you model your qooty on?
GS: I have not seen a lot of the other teams, but Baghdad Bombers seem to have a big rivalry with the Furies.
I think Santoz, Turbo and TheInjuryFactory are very funny posters

FG: Who else do you think will win the Gun of the Year, and the overall Rising Star? Reckon you’re a shot?
GS: Well CatsnLakers can't win rookie of the year because all he does is spam gifs and DockerDenPostcode defected from the furies so he's a traitor so it would be an indictment on SFA if either of those two won Rookie of the Year.
All I can do is to continue to train in the mountains.

And there you have it folks, the Round 2 Gun Nominee! Let's see what happens tomorrow for Round 3.

 

[FootyGuy13]

ROUND 3 CANDIDATES

Defender of the Week - Grimesy87 (GUM) - ADT 83.53
Alright, starting with the odd ones out, Grimesy played Full Back for the entire game for the Gumbies against the Hawks, and was considered to be the best Backman of the rookies that started away from the goals. Now of course stats don't tell the full story of backmen, as they are usually more judged on how their opponent did. Yeah, it doesn't look like there's any chance of Grimesy to get the nom this week as their opponent kinda ran all over them, they were still one of the highest scoring rookies for the week... it wasn't a high scoring week for the rookies in Round 3.

Forward of the Week - Heardy_101 (MBD) - ADT 209.31
Look who's back, back again. Heardy is once again the highest scoring rookie of the week, once again because someone else was ineligible. This time they bigger and better, going from Forward Pocket (this time Heardy actually did something in his starting position before getting benched) before taking a breather and getting put in the Ruck spot. Those who start in the ruck spot tend to brag about it, so imagine the surprise on Muddiemoose's face when got bench after 8 minutes for Ok Boomer, and imagine Ok Boomer's surprise when they got beat in the ruck by Heardy! 15 Hit Outs, 10 Handballs, 3 Frees, it'll be hard to go past him 2 weeks in a row.

WildCard of the Week1 - Zevon (ROY) - ADT 120.62
Now, onto that person that was ineligible. Last week it was because they had already won a nom, this week it was because BringBackTheAnchor didn't post once in the match thread a.k.a. the only thing stopping rookies from just winning this without showing up. Zevon did what you would expect a Forward Pocket to do. They stayed in front of goals and they kicked towards goal. With 3 marks and 5 kicks, Zevon scored with every attempt, it's just that the tally became 1 goal 4 behinds (I think 2 were rushed though) at the end of a day that needed more goals at the Roys end. Still more than what the Forward Pocket usually does and not everyone can just get benched to play Ruck.

WildCard of the Week2 - Cuzz09 (LVB) - ADT 92.03
The other thing that happened this week is that the 2 starting midfielders didn't reach the 75 ADT threshold, so even if BringBackTheAnchor did post, it would've been at the expense of Cuzz, not Zevon. The 3rd forward to get candidacy, though their stats would say otherwise. 6 kicks, 7 marks, 9 handballs, they have the most non-adjusted DT points of the 4, but when it comes to the Forward part, only a solitary point comes up. So even with no mids in the Top 4, it feels like Cuzz and Heardy already have that part of the field covered. You can have a look at the stats yourself.

Has Heardy done enough to make those voting notice him this time? Can Zevon persuade them due to his own efforts? Cuzz has big stats, maybe he can some recognition. Or maybe they'll look at the other end of the ground and see Grimesy for the defender they are.

WHO DO YOU THINK IS GOING TO BE THIS WEEK'S "GUN"?​

 

[FootyGuy13]

Round 3 has seen this award become a task of how many rookies can end up as a forward by season's end, with 13 of the 23 rooks playing in the round shooting for goal. This was shown when all bar one candidate was a forward (and not even Grimesy87 thought they were a chance). While BringBackTheAnchor was the highest scoring rookie, he didn't post rendering him ineligible. Aristotle Pickett started in midfield so he needed a big score just to get a look in. He had a bigger score, but not a big enough score. With GREENESHOOTS already nommed, that left Zevon Heardy_101 and Cuzz09. Zevon scored 1.4, great for a forward pocket but terrible accuracy never looks good anywhere. Cuzz did enough at Half-Forward, but Heardy managed to do the same amount as him with 1 and a half quarters less. So in the end, the Round 3 Gun nomination is…​

​

After being utterly disappointed last week over being snubbed, Heardy went into the game determined to not make the same mistake twice. And just like in Round 2, the game started of with Heardy going missing in the forward pocket long enough to get benched early in the second quarter. And again, just like Round 2, Manang decided to make Heardy feel right at home by doing a "Crazy Goody" and putting Heardy back on the ground in the midfield, this time in the prime Ruck spot. And that's where our highlights begin;​

It was early on in his match-up with Matera when Heardy showed that he was gonna be a pain to deal with.​

2 : 21.02 {rFP} - Matera92 runs past and takes the handpass.
2 : 21.06 {rFP} - This should be a goal to Matera92.
2 : 21.1 {rFP} - Heardy_101 walks it over. The opposition want a free but the umpire's having none of it.
Las Vegas Bears : 8.4.52
Mount Buller Demons : 8.5.53

Along with his rucking prowess, Heardy was helping the team chain together an unassailable lead.

3 : 8.53 {rHFF} - sausageroll has it.
3 : 8.57 {rHFF} - A wild handball - but luckily Heardy_101 was well placed to clean up.
3 : 9.01 {rHFF} - Heardy_101 has time to take a bounce.
3 : 9.05 {rHFF} - Gives the ball to pantskyle.
3 : 9.09 {FF} - His kick is towards Proper Gander.
3 : 9.13 {FF} - Proper Gander is caught under pressure and knocks the ball forward.
3 : 9.18 {FF} - The bounce favours Proper Gander and she is off and running.
3 : 9.22 {FF} - Proper Gander has a bounce.
3 : 9.26 {FF} - Proper Gander wants a goal.
3 : 9.3 {FF} - What a statement by Proper Gander.
Las Vegas Bears : 8.4.52
Mount Buller Demons : 12.6.78

Even started to just lead the opposition in circles.

3 : 20.31 {rW} - manangatang through heavy traffic.
3 : 20.36 {rW} - A lookaway handpass to Heardy_101.
3 : 20.4 {rW} - Headless receives his handpass.
3 : 20.44 {rHFF} - Huge handpass to sausageroll. As good as a kick.
3 : 20.48 {rW} - A long looping handpass to Heardy_101.
3 : 20.54 {rW} - Heardy_101 sells the dummy and helps himself to a bounce.
3 : 20.58 {rW} - Draws a man and then with hands to pantskyle.

Seems to have the leg speed to carry him down the ground.

4 : 1.32 {rHBF} - sante hits the ground running.
4 : 1.36 {rHBF} - Handpass over the shoulder to Heardy_101.
4 : 1.4 {rHBF} - He has a bounce.
4 : 1.45 {rW} - Another bounce taken by Heardy_101.
4 : 1.48 {rW} - Gives the ball to pantskyle.

At this point, he was being more than just a pain to Matera92

4 : 13.49 {lW} - guero assessing what lies ahead of him.
4 : 13.53 {lHFF} - Handpass over the shoulder to Matera92.
4 : 13.58 {lHFF} - Matera92 ran into Heardy_101 and came off second-best.

It even helped the team towards another goal.

4 : 18.38 {rBP} - Broken signals for his teammates to present.
4 : 18.42 {rBP} - Handballs to Matera92.
4 : 18.48 {rBP} - Crunching tackle by Heardy_101.
4 : 18.52 {lFP} - Callums_Guns to send the ball forward.
4 : 18.57 {lFP} - Callums_Guns opens up the goalface.
4 : 19.01 {lFP} - Goal number 3 to Callums_Guns.
Las Vegas Bears : 13.5.83
Mount Buller Demons : 21.10.136

He had a terrible start to the game, but as time went on Heardy went from forgettable to unbelievable. He was dancing around the opposition by the end of the game.

4 : 20.27 {lHBF} - Nobody's checking jmoo wan.
4 : 20.31 {lHBF} - A poor handpass but Heardy_101 is up to the challenge.
4 : 20.36 {lHBF} - Heardy_101 dummy's the handpass and then takes a bounce.
4 : 20.4 {lHBF} - jmoo wan receives his handpass.

So this week, I had to trek past the Snow Dome into the snowy hills/mountains of the Demons residence to interview Manangatang and Heardy. When I found them, Manang was on the guitar, singing the praises that the Demons had actually won 2 games in the row and seemed more than happy to answer the questions.


FG: Hey Manang, great win by the Dees on the weekend, with one of your recruits nominated for the Gun of the Week the cherry on top. How does it feel?
M: It feels like that moment exactly 2 seconds after you wake up from a nightmare where you're really tiny and a giant is chasing you with a lawnmower covered in sharks and you run but you can't get away. It's a mix of exhilarating relief and terror.

FG: Oh...kay, Well, congrats on getting Heardy over to the Demons. Where did you find him, and how is he settling in?
M: I found him on the FJGD board - he was cowering behind a small Japanese Maple, but I saw his shoes sticking out from behind the trunk so I went over to him and said 'hey, do you want to join this weird league that you probably won't understand for at least 3 months, if that?' and he said 'alright'.

FG: He's been handy for you guys in the Forward Pocket and midfield, what are your on-field aspirations for Heardy?
M: If he keeps kicking goals he's staying right where he is, unless of course he has aspirations of taking my spot in the guts, in which case it's all his.

FG: I know there's other rookies at the Snow Dome this year, how have they been going themselves?
M: I don't think we have any other rookies - we try not to surround ourselves with too many at once as they can have lice and they can spread like wildfire.

FG: Oh yeah, that's right, shoot. Um, now that we're into the season and we've seen what rookies every other team has, are there any other rookies that you wish you had gotten your hands on that go alright at qooty?
M: I think they're all simply wonderful; rosy-faced harbingers of a brighter Sweet F.A. future. Actually the only one I can name other than my dear friend Heardy is DockerDen5215 and I'm not sure if he qooties well or not. But I wish them all the very, very best of luck.

At this stage, Manang went back to singing the praises of the team so I turned my attention to Heardy (who is apparently the only rookie at Mt Buller).

FG: Hey Heardy! Congratulations on the nomination after being passed up last week. You must be pleased with how you went in the game. What path did you take to get to the SFA, and where did you first hear about it?
H: They found me lurking in the backstreets of the FJGD Board.

FG: And what lovely backstreets they are. What are your first impressions of this place? Is Manang, Headless and the rest of the Dees looking after you?
H: Loving the banter. They certainly are.

FG: How do you prepare for a qooty match? Did you think you were going to be a chance of getting the nomination this week with the amount of rookies that are playing forward?
H: Iced Coffee for breakfast, a nap in the afternoon, rock up late for training with a West End red run in one hand and manage to do the least amount possible.

FG: I see, keeping it simple. What would you like to achieve on the field during your SFA career?
H: Not sure yet.

FG: Have there been any other teams that have stood out for you on the field, or players that you model your qooty on?
H: Mount Buller Demons, and myself of course.

FG: Who else do you think will win the Gun of the Year, and the overall Rising Star? Reckon you’re a shot?
H: If I don't win it, then it's voter fraud and I'm going to start making some phone calls to the SFA commission.

And with that declaration, Manangatang told me to stop disrupting the music and I left, knowing that we've probably haven't heard the last of Heardy_101.

Let's see what happens tomorrow for Round 4!

 

[FootyGuy13]

ROUND 4 CANDIDATES

Defender of the Week - Grimesy87 (GUM) - ADT 203.18
Alright, so last week it was obvious that the defenders had a bad round all-round. So this week, Grimesy took a page out of Heardy's book and got benched to get put into a better position. That position was on the wing on a day where everything went right for the Gumbies until the final hurdle. Grimesy wasn't even that bad at Full-Back, keeping miggs scoreless in the 9 minutes they were together, but there was a chance to do wonders on the wing and Grimesy took it, collecting 26 disposals (a 50/50 spilt of kick and handballs) and 7 marks. Maybe this is why Grimesy gets put on the opposition's best forward each week.

Forward of the Week - Zevon (ROY) - ADT 180.93
Another returning candidate from last round is Zevon, who didn't have to get benched to get a better position. Kicking a behind in the handful of minutes they played in the forward line this week, Zevon played Half-Back Flanker for most of the Roys win, getting plenty of the ball and handing it off to the more experienced players as Zevon finished with 10 handballs, 6 marks and only 4 kicks. It may not have been much of a forward display, but you can't say Zevon didn't have a good game.

WildCard of the Week1 - Jabba73 (BAG) - ADT 145.99
Now, last week the top ADT scorer was ineligible due to not posting. This week, it happened again with Off Tap forgetting to show up, meaning WaywardSonSon would've gotten the spot if they had posted. Which they didn't. Luckily Jabba did, which is great because they deserve to be. Jabba actually stayed in position all game for the Bombers, and managed to nearly get better stats than the Full Back turned Winger. At Centre Half Forward, Jabba had 24 disposals (again half and half) with their 7 marks, with 3 tackles and a goal added on. Might actually be tough to pick a winner this week.

WildCard of the Week2 - Catsnlakers (SCS) - ADT 143.04
And since the only midfielder that scored high enough, Gadzorks, didn't post, that leaves another WildCard spot open. And since mezaire didn't post, that leaves Catsnlakers unopposed to take the final spot. Like most rookies here, Catsnlakers couldn't be kept to one position. They were another rookie to have played most of their game as a Half-Back Flanker, with nearly the same score as the other HBF up for a nomination. 9 kicks this time, but only 3 marks, 6 handballs and a couple frees against put a damper on their chances, but you don't get put up for a nomination without doing something (unless it's a Golden Globe in which that case ¯\_(ツ)_/¯). More stats and more here...


Has Grimesy done enough outside their starting position to get the nom, or has Jabba sticking to their guns swayed the votes their way? Could one of Zevon or Catsnlakers be an outside chance to pull a sneaky on the competition and go home with the chocolates. More importantly...
WHO DO YOU THINK IS GOING TO BE THIS WEEK'S "GUN"?​

 

[FootyGuy13]

Round 4 marks the quarter-mark for the 31st season of the SFA, with the rookies continuing to bring in the big scores. 8 rookies this round outscored the top-scorer of Round 1. Of those 8, 1 had already been nominated, 4 of them posted before game-time, making it was easy to see who was getting candidacy. 2 players went from a Pocket position into real positions, and their scores show that. What Zevon and Catsnlakers did was great for a Pocket position, but was well behind the mark for the position they played 3 quarters in. It truly was a race between Jabba73 and Grimesy87 for this week's nom. So close in fact, that the winner was unanimous. I mean, come on, he came from Full-Back to do the same thing a Centre Half-Forward did 1 less quarter. Your Round 4 Gun nomination is…​

​

The rookie that's been tasked to stop the goals flowing down the wrong end, Grimesy has been... good for his position, you could say. Has yet to miss consideration. This week, however, was the first time you could truly see what kind of player Grimesy could be.​

He certainly has the Full-Back position figured out.​

​

1 : 4.21 {CHF} - Jabba73 sizes the options in front of him.
1 : 4.25 {CHF} - Jabba73 dummy's the handpass and then takes a bounce.
1 : 4.29 {FF} - He chooses the sensible option - to kick it long.
1 : 4.31 {FF} - Grimesy87 intercepts the kick and marks.
1 : 4.35 {FB} - Grimesy87 signals for his teammates to present.

He can correct his own mistakes, but that's the end of that part.

1 : 8.43 {FB} - Grimesy87 with the ball now.
1 : 8.46 {FB} - miggs applies the tackle on Grimesy87.
1 : 8.49 {FF} - With the ball is miggs.
1 : 8.53 {FF} - miggs sells the dummy and has a shot.
1 : 8.56 {FF} - Tapped through for a behind by Grimesy87.
Baghdad Bombers : 1.3.9
Gumbies FFC : 2.1.13
1 : 9.03 {FB} - Grimesy87 sizes the options in front of him.
1 : 9.06 - <<< Taylor is coming on to replace Grimesy87 >>>

When he came back to the position later that quarter, he continued this form by doing this...

2 : 4.13 {CHF} - He handpasses to Jabba73.
2 : 4.15 {rFP} - A kick in the general direction of iDon.
2 : 4.19 {rFP} - Grimesy87 upset the marking attempt by iDon.
2 : 4.23 {lBP} - Grimesy87 signals for his teammates to present.
2 : 4.25 {lBP} - Grimesy87 has a bounce.
2 : 4.29 {lHBF} - Another bounce taken by Grimesy87.
2 : 4.31 {rW} - A hospital kick.
2 : 4.35 {rW} - Ned Ryerson can't mark but is able to bring the ball to ground.

Then the big moment came. 2 : 7.12 - <<< Ned Ryerson is trading places with Grimesy87 >>>. What's gonna happen now? Not much, Grimesy was just trying to get used to the position first. It almost took him a quarter to actually beat his new winger opponent.

3 : .53 {CHB} - The ball is now with CALL ME SNAKE.
3 : .55 {lW} - Gets onto his preferred foot and boots it long.
3 : .59 {lW} - The ball drops short of Tony Lynn 15.
3 : 1.03 {rW} - Grimesy87 has it. What can he do with it?.

Which he started to make a habit of.

3 : 2.03 {CHB} - A lookaway handpass to BLUEALLTHRU.
3 : 2.03 {lW} - Tony Lynn 15 presents.
3 : 2.07 {lW} - Grimesy87 intercepts the kick and marks.
3 : 2.11 {rW} - Grimesy87 to send the ball forward.

The highlights started pouring in.

3 : 5 {lW} - Tony Lynn 15 looking for a lead.
3 : 5.02 {lW} - He takes the opportunity to bounce.
3 : 5.06 {lW} - Tony Lynn 15 is tackled beautifully by Grimesy87.
3 : 5.1 {rW} - The ball is now with Grimesy87.
3 : 5.12 {rW} - Grimesy87 bounces the ball.
3 : 5.16 {rW} - A wild handball - but luckily Barrybran was well placed to clean up.

He was stopping the ball getting past him when it was coming back.

3 : 6.04 {rHBF} - Genghis Tron has it.
3 : 6.08 {rW} - Grimesy87 runs past and takes the handpass.
3 : 6.1 {C} - He tries to find EagleOz with a chip pass.
3 : 6.15 {C} - Great mark! No! The umpire calls play on.
3 : 6.18 {C} - Kilroy slowing down the play.
3 : 6.2 {lW} - A wild kick laterally towards Tony Lynn 15.
3 : 6.25 {lW} - But in the way is Grimesy87.

Even enjoying a game of tit-for-tat

3 : 9.59 {C} - That's a shocking bounce!.
3 : 10.05 {lW} - Nobody's checking StFly.
3 : 10.09 {lW} - OOOOOOOooohh... TheCoach16 has poleaxed StFly.
3 : 10.11 {lW} - Tony Lynn 15 looking for a lead.
3 : 10.15 {lW} - OOOOOOOooohh... Grimesy87 has poleaxed Tony Lynn 15.
3 : 10.19 {rW} - Grimesy87 breaks free and has found some space.

At this point, the Gumbies were just having fun around the Bombers.

4 : 2.48 {C} - EagleOz slowing down the play.
4 : 2.48 {rW} - Sees Grimesy87 out of the corner of his eye.
4 : 2.52 {rW} - Grimesy87aleunko!.
4 : 2.57 {rW} - Grimesy87 has it. What can he do with it?.

The Bombers decided other things were on the cards that day. Grimesy still managed one more highlight during the comeback.

4 : 16.34 {C} - Gets a handpass away to Pugsley.
4 : 16.37 {lW} - He kicks across the ground towards Keg still on legs.
4 : 16.4 {lW} - Keg still on legs is the target but he's outplayed by Grimesy87.

It would've been disappointing to blow that big of a lead at the last break and not go home with a celebration, but what Grimesy87 did when the team was high and flying was enough to make the voters go "That's a performance you can get behind".

So with that in mind, I went and met with Barrybran and Grimesy87 to talk about his nomination.

FG: Hey Baz, unfortunate how the game went for the Gumbies in Round 4, but your rookie got nommed. How does it feel?​

BB: Mate, these Rising Star "committees" just haven't been the same since I was involved. Fancy waiting until round 4 to nominate Grimesy87. What a joke.​

​

FG: Oh, it's gonna be one of those interviews. Well, congrats on getting Grimesy over to the Gumbies. Where did you find him, and how is he settling in?​

BB: Dingster found him crying in the corner on the Melbourne board and directed him my way so he had like minded people to cry with without having to deal with the disappointment of another Melbourne season.​

​

At the moment Grimesy is still trying to come to terms with what he's got himself into but he's contributing in the team PM nicely.​

​

FG: I believe that's Back-to-Back noms for Dees fans, but enough inane AFL Chatter. He's been handy for you guys at Full Back and the midfield, what are your on-field aspirations for Grimesy?​

BB: If by handy you mean 'was at full back when we lost by 68 points to the Royals' then yes. I reckon we'll see Grimesy up the field before the season is out.​

​

FG: I see that he's the only rookie at the House of Gumby this season, any chance of getting another by seasons end?​

BB: It would be nice but I'm not holding my breath.​

​

FG: Now that we're a quarter into the season and we've seen what rookies every other team has, are there any other rookies that you wish you had gotten your hands on that go alright at qooty?​

BB: DockerDen5215 has taken to Sweet FA nicely and Jabba73 is a bit wasted at the Bombers but I haven't seen much I'm missing out on to be honest.​

​

FG: Yes, DockerDen has been doing swimmingly compared to the rest. Speaking of the rest, Hey Grimesy! Congratulations on the nomination after being passed up last week. You must be pleased with how you went in the game. What path did you take to get to the SFA, and where did you first hear about it?​

G: Thank you! To be honest, I was pretty much as useless as wipers on a submarine over the first 3 games, so anything was a step up. I actually knew nothing of SFA, and earlier this year had an inbox from dingster. He assured me he was my rich African uncle, unfortunately though there was no money- just SFA banter and glory.​

​

FG: Ah, Classic Dingster. What are your first impressions of the place? Is Baz, Goose and the rest of the Gumbies looking after you?​

G: It was a little confusing to start with, plenty to learn. But it didn't take long to pick up, it's very similar to supporting Melbourne- Monday morning wake up moderately optimistic, talk up your chances of victory, then get to Sunday twilight before snatching defeat from the jaws of victory. But so far, great bunch of team mates.​

​

FG: Haha, yeah, Melbourne, yes, hmm...​

​

How do you prepare for a qooty match? Did you think you were going to be a chance of getting the nomination this week?​

G: To be honest, the past 2 Saturdays I've spent on the cans and/or scotches away at events. I usually get a notification Sunday morning to remind me of game day, take a nap on the couch and wake up and order uber eats. I'd imagine that if I keep getting 26 quality disposals on the wing and streaming forward kicking 0 goals 1 behind per week, that preparation may continue.​

​

FG: Can't mess with a good thing, aye. What would you like to achieve on the field during your SFA career?​

G: I was made aware this week that the Gumbies haven't won't a flag as yet, so I would like to change that. But failing that, any other personal glory will suffice.​

​

FG: Have there been any other teams that have stood out for you on the field, or players that you model your qooty on?​

G: Well we just played the bombers, so I'd like to think the opposite of any of them.​

​

FG: Corect answer. Who else do you think will win the Gun of the Year, and the overall Rising Star? Reckon you’re a shot?​

G: So far I have been trying to keep my nose clean (last comment at the bombers won't go so well) and haven't seen a lot else. I'd say Jabba73 is a decent shot. If it's me, then I'll use my Melbourne experience to bring it up every year akin to Jared Rivers when he won the rising star.​

​

And with that, it was the end of the interview. I'd usually say "cya" to them but I realised I was in the middle of an ocean, atop Fridgey (of course he wanted to listen into the interview) with no idea of how to get to shore... or any idea of how we left shore... or how any of this transpired... We were lost, out at sea, with no mode of propulsion to get back to land, wherever land was. The only option was to push Fridge in a direction and hope for the best. But I can't swim, what I doing this far out in water? I can't help us now, I can't even help myself! I was hopeless in this situation, lost adrift floating on Fridge in a sea of despair- OH I get it now, I'm making a joke. Aren't I cute. Here I am thinking I've put myself in a perilous situation, when I just being coy in order to deliver a punchline. Seriously, how do people out up with this.​

​

(P.S. after we got back to shore, somehow, some guy showed up asking where his keys were. If you know who that is, he was last seen talking seen talking with Barrybran and also, if you could, please direct to this thread so he knows what he's in for.​

 

[FootyGuy13]

ROUND 5 CANDIDATES

Defender of the Week - BringBackTheAnchor (DRA) - ADT 208.60
I don't know if I should be surprised that this is BBTA's first time as a candidate or not. They've certainly been getting big scores this season, it's just the "must post" rule that's been their undoing. After weeks of being the Dragon's super sub, they got the call-up to actually start the game on the field in Back Pocket. It then got even better when just 3 minutes into the game, they got put into the Centre position. Now, a score of 70 would be on-par for a Centreman, so the fact that a Back Pocket rookie is already on-par with the rest of the competition is saying something. With 23 disposals, 4 marks and a couple frees, it'll be interesting to see if the voters see this performance as a defender punching above their weight, or a rookie midfielder doing what their supposed to be doing.

Midfielder of the Week - Aristotle Pickett (ROY) - ADT 98.25
Now onto the rookie that supposed to be a midfielder. Aristotle Pickett is back on the table after 2 weeks of no midfielder making it past the 75 ADT threshold. And what a game to return back with! 11 kicks, 8 tackles, 6 frees with none against and 2 goals, and the sim still managed to say they lost the match-up. Of course, starting in a midfield spot means they don't get that much of a boost when scores are adjusted, sit also has its advantages elsewhere. When comparing Aristotle's stats to those also in the game, I think it'd be safe to say that they have a good chance of getting the 3 Mobbs votes this game. Whether or not this will be their first votes for the season, I haven't looked. I just know that the sim definitely likes games containing 8 tackles, 6 frees and 2 goals.

Forward of the Week - Catsnlakers (SCS) - ADT 198.67
I'm going to mention this now because if Catsnlakers manages to do this again next round, I might have to finally plan an interview at phil's. Catsnlakers has increased their ADT every round, not once have they scored less than the prior round. This round they started in the Forward Pocket, and actually stayed there. For a full half of football, a rookie that started in a Pocket and ended with candidacy actually played most of the game in the Pocket. And you're probably wondering what happened in the other half. Well... they played in the Centre position. With 12 kicks, 4 handballs, 2 goals and nothing else, Catsnlakers is firing their way up the overall Gun tally, but they don't need to look far for competition in trying to get a nomination.

WildCard of the Week - powerrrrrrrrrrrr (SCS) - ADT 105.54
That's right, another Swampie gets candidacy. Gremio won't be able to contain their excitement over the possibility of being disappointed 2 times over. powerrrrrrrrrrrr played at the other end of the ground to ol' Cats, and was also the only candidate this week that touched the bench, going off the ground for the last nail-biting 6 minutes of the drawn game. Before that though, powerrrrrrrrrrrr racked up 12 marks for the game with 11 disposals and a tackle. 12 marks and 11 disposals, interesting. Now, had WaywardSonSon posted, they would've gotten candidacy over powerrrrrrrrrrrr, but they didn't, so they weren't. More statistical analysis that you want to see (why else are you paying attention to this thread) have a looksy...


Can BringBackTheAnchor get the nomination their stats have been begging for? Can Aristotle Pickett get the nomination alongside their growing number of Mobbs votes? Or can the 2 Swampie gove the competition the ol' 1-2 and decide between themselves who gets the gong this week?
WHO DO YOU THINK IS GOING TO BE THIS WEEK'S "GUN"?​

 

[FootyGuy13]

Most of Round 5 was spent picking up the pieces of Round 4, but none of that hindered the rookies at all. There were plenty of rookies with an ADT score in the 90s or low 100s where rookies have just go to be in the right position more than the rest to be given a look at, with every candidate bar one either playing in the midfield by the end of their game, like Aristotle Pickett, or just being in a good position to start with, like powerrrrrrrrrrrr. It all came down to 2 players, the Back Pocket turned mid and the Forward Pocket turned mid. The voters looked at the both games, and one just just that bit better than the other. And so your Round 5 Gun nomination is…


It was really close between Catsnlakers and BringBackTheAnchor, well at least with the ADT it was close. However, looking at the games for both, BBTA was doing more with the ball than what Catsnlakers was, and the stats reflected that with BBTA getting stats in more categories. I mean look at the highlights...

Okay so he didn't even get the ball before being moved, but neither did his opponent.

1 : 3.58 - <<< BringBackTheAnchor is trading places with MC Bad Genius >>>

Not a bad start when the sim did finally notice him.

1 : 7.51 {C} - Western Stand Warrior hits the ground running.
1 : 7.53 {C} - Western Stand Warrior nearly got done for running too far but he remembers to bounce at last.
1 : 7.55 {C} - Smashed by BringBackTheAnchor.

They were just not watching him at the start.

1 : 21.53 {rHBF} - Tommycash sells the dummy and helps himself to a bounce.
1 : 21.58 {C} - Western Stand Warrior presents.
1 : 22 {C} - BringBackTheAnchor rises over the pack majestically.

The first quarter ends with great assist added to the reel.

Dragons FFC : 4.4.28
Las Vegas Bears : 1.0.6
1 : 23.12 {C} - No clear advantage to either side.
1 : 23.21 {C} - BringBackTheAnchor sucks it up like a dustbuster and he's off and running.
1 : 23.27 {lHFF} - He gets boot to ball immediately.
1 : 23.28 {lHFF} - Knifey Spoony runs back with the flight of the ball and takes it!.
1 : 23.32 {lHFF} - Knifey Spoony has it.
1 : 23.37 {lHFF} - Knifey Spoony sees an open goal.
1 : 23.41 {lHFF} - Knifey Spoony's dobbed it.
Dragons FFC : 5.4.34
Las Vegas Bears : 1.0.6

Not that the second quarter was going to be any different.

2 : 3.13 {lHBF} - Muddiemoose takes a bounce and nearly fumbles it.
2 : 3.17 {C} - A bit of a miskick.
2 : 3.21 {C} - But BringBackTheAnchor is better positioned and marks safely.

Performed a 1-2 without any trouble.

3 : 3.05 {C} - BringBackTheAnchor fighting to get a clear kick.
3 : 3.11 {C} - A lookaway handpass to A Swallow.
3 : 3.15 {C} - Gets a handpass away to BringBackTheAnchor.

Was simply running rings around his opponent.

3 : 14.1 {lHBF} - A long looping handpass to kane249.
3 : 14.12 {C} - He rewards the Western Stand Warrior lead.
3 : 14.16 {C} - Oh a turnover. The kick is marked by BringBackTheAnchor.

There was no stopping him.

4 : 13.37 {rHBF} - Tommycash has it. What can he do with it?.
4 : 13.39 {C} - Western Stand Warrior presents.
4 : 13.43 {C} - Western Stand Warrior can't mark. BringBackTheAnchor can.

In the end, BBTA was a part of a demolition of the Bears at the hands of the Dragons, probably one of their biggest wins in their history. It feels great when you win by such a big margin, it feels even better when you're one of the reasons the margin got that big. And now you get to do an interview about that contribution.

This week, I was taken to a garden area on the Dragon's home island. BringBackTheAnchor had brought in an anchor, serial_thrilla was in a surprisingly good mood and I was ready to hear the juicy goss about whatever happens in their neck of the woods.


FG: Hey ST, the Dragons absolutely humiliated the Bears in Round 5, with your rookie getting nommed for his part. How does it feel?
ST: Hi there FootyGuy. It feels great - I didn't even have to bribe anyone this time! We've only got one rookie this season, so it's fantastic to see him getting some recognition for his on field efforts. He seems to be starting to get a feel for the match threads too, so I hope to see him pushing for a Torch of the Week nom in the back end of the season.

FG: Congrats on getting BBTA over to the Dragons. Where did you find him, and how is he settling in?
ST: We came across BBTA during the SFA tour of the Footy Jumpers and Graphic Design board. I naturally gravitated towards him since he was a Freo supporter and he seemed to be interested in the sim concept as well as engaging with a few SFAers in the match thread. The Dragons LG seemed a little concerned that I'm turning the Dragons in a new Freo team after I also recruited Bradesmaen last season, so I've been informed that I am no longer allowed to recruit any more Dockers fans. Unless Bastyy agrees to come across. He gets an exemption. BBTA is warming to the SFA nicely - he's started to understand the whole silly concept now, and he's even using his skills to work on an upgrade to the Dragons FFC team jumpers!

FG: He's been handy for you guys being the team's Super Sub and in the midfield this round, what are your on-field aspirations for BBTA?
ST: BBTA very patiently waited for his opportunity over the first few rounds as he had to earn his spot in the starting lineup. He put his head down, trained hard at Dragon Island Subway, and now only Bonz can put together a meatball footlong quicker than him. He was also very impressive once subbed into games and was keen to start getting involved in match threads. We finally gave him a starting spot against the Bears and he took the opportunity with both hands - MC Bad Genius was getting fatigued after 4 minutes in the guts, so BBTA switched with him and did the job to cheat the Gun algorithm. Now that he's got a starting position in the back pocket though, it's up to him to move up the ground.

FG: He's not the only one to figure out the cheat, and he won't be the last. As you said, he's the only rookie Dragon Island this season, any chance of getting another by seasons end?
ST: Probably not at this point - maybe one at most. We've got 19 active posters most weeks, and it's a hard sell to recruit someone who won't get a spot in the team each week. If we spot some talent in the BF wilderness or the right person pops into the Sign Up thread we'll give them a once over though.

FG: Now that we're a quarter into the season and we've seen what rookies every other team has, are there any other rookies that you wish you had gotten your hands on that go alright at qooty?
ST: I thought the S30 rookies were dull and talentless, but the S31 ones take the cake! DockerDen5215 is impressive, as is Catsnlakers and Aristotle Pickett...and I've heard good things about Jabba73 and GREENESHOOTS. But the rest seem to be treading water or have done the Harold Holt already.

It might still be early days in the season, we'll see if the Footy gets the rookies more into the Qooty or not. Now, onto the rookie...

FG: Hey BringBackTheAnchor! Congratulations on the nomination after missing a couple chances to be a candidate. You must be pleased with how you went in the game. What path did you take to get to the SFA, and where did you first hear about it?
BBTA: I heard some talk on the FJGD board about SFA but it wasn't until the Qooty tour of FJGD I really got involved. Playing off the half-back flank I had 12 marks with 20 disposals and soon after serial_thrilla sent me a PM offering a position on the Dragons.

FG: What are your first impressions of the place? Is ST, MC Bad Genius and the rest of the Dragons looking after you?
BBTA: Its been amazing, I think I've settled in quite well and the rest of the Dragons have been great.

FG: How do you prepare for a qooty match? Did you think you were going to be a chance of getting the nomination this week?
BBTA: My game day normally starts with a long shift at Dragon Island Subway and in my first game off the bench I knew I could put up some nice numbers but I didn't really think about the nomination.

FG: What would you like to achieve on the field during your SFA career?
BBTA: I would love to hang around this team for a long while, play a fair amount of games and of course win the cup.

FG: Have there been any other teams that have stood out for you on the field, or players that you model your qooty on?
BBTA: I haven't really had a look at to many other match threads but who else could I model my game on but the captain or Bonz (as we both share the photoshopping skill)

FG: Who else do you think will win the Gun of the Year, and the overall Rising Star? Reckon you’re a shot?
BBTA: I think DockerDen5215 has a good chance at Rising Star, though I think I can put in some more key performances I've got a good shot.

What have the rookie got in store for the competition in Round 6? Will another name spring up, or a regular candidate get the nomination? Will Gremio stop acting like the Rising Star is all about him? Find out tomorrow sometime, I dunno when the matches get put up.[/QUOTE][/QUOTE]

 

[FootyGuy13]

ROUND 6 CANDIDATES

Defender of the Week - Freo_4eva (ROY) - ADT 142.79
Before we get to talking about the 3 Roys that are usually looked at here every week, I get to start with Freo_4eva and their first week of candidacy. And what a game to get candidacy from. 92 DreamTeam points made up from 19 disposals, 10 marks and 4 tackles, Freo_4eva had a great game on the Half-Back Flank against Cuzz09 who would've gotten candidacy themselves had they posted. Of every single rookie that played this week, Freo_4eva finished in the Top 3 for highest ADT, showing that they believe in the "go big or go home" mantra. We'll have to see if this becomes a regular appearance, or was just a occurrence of everything going right for once. Well...almost everything.

Midfielder of the Week - Aristotle Pickett (ROY) - ADT 91.78
Aristotle Pickett is this season's Best Rookie Midfielder. Sometimes they're the only rookie Midfielder. This week, they actually had competition for the spot and did not relinquish it. With 85 DreamTeam points playing Rover including 15 disposals, 8 tackles, 6 Frees and a goal, Aristotle is most likely the Roy's favourite to take out the Mobbs Medal at this stage, especially when the sim reckons you were better than the opposing team's captain for half the game. What's more impressive is that Aristotle sat out the last quarter and still scored as high as they did. Week in, week out, Aristotle continues to give everything they have for the Roys, and eventually that 100+ ADT score will show up one of these weeks.

Forward of the Week - Zevon (ROY) - ADT 99.33
Yet another Roy has gotten candidacy this week and this time, Zevon has actually kicked straight! With 2 goals from Half-Forward Flank looking nice next to 13 disposals, 4 marks and 3 tackles, Zevon and their opponent didn't get noticed by the sim until 14 minutes into the game. Zevon, as well as Freo_4eva and Aristotle, were obviously great contributors for the Roys in Round 6, which is probably surprising to know that they actually lost their game against the Bears in a comeback victory. While they didn't get the 4 points in the end, Zevon (and the 2 mentioned above) haven't stopped taking the field and putting up the big numbers that is required of them every week.

WildCard of the Week - Jabba73 (BAG) - ADT 82.55
Now onto the last Roy, except WaywardSonSon didn't post... Now onto the non-Roy in Jabba73. Jabba won against the Hawks playing in the Ruck, yes the Ruck, and was doing such a great job of it that East Side had to put 2 blokes on Jabba for half of the 3rd quarter. With 15 hitouts alongside 18 disposals, 2 tackles and 2 goals, Jabba has shown that they can bring it to those considered by only some to be the best in their team. Having gotten candidacy weeks prior from their effort at Centre Half-Forward, Jabba isn't a rookie that people can just shove out of the contest and make a mockery. It'll be interesting to see if Jabba stays in the Ruck position long enough to get matched-up against those who call themselves "Ruck Kings", but there's no doubt that Jabba won't make it a cakewalk for them.


Can Aristotle Pickett or Zevon take the nomination that's been at their finger tips for so long. Can Freo_4eva get the nomination right form under their teammates noses? Can Jabba defy the odds of going up against 3 from the same team and be the second Gun-Torch rookie for Season 31?
WHO DO YOU THINK IS GOING TO BE THIS WEEK'S "GUN"?​

 

[FootyGuy13]

There were other teams that had rookies make the criteria of getting candidacy, but simply being eligible isn't the same as actually getting candidacy. Round 6 saw the Roys, with their 5 rookies, have 3 up for the nomination and could have had 4. Freo_4eva, Zevon and Aristotle Pickett, while not winners on the day, played terrifically for the club in their sections of the ground. Kicking goals, blocking goals, plus all the work in-between, the Roys have found qooty gold in their crop of up-and-comers. There are other teams, however, with Jabba73 being fortunate enough to take the WildCard spot. The Bombers new No.1 ruckman is having a instant effect in his new position and will, much like the Roy Boys, have many more chances to get a nomination. But that's then and this is now, and the Round 6 Gun nomination is…


Yes, it was Freo_4eva's name that was voted the best player of the week and it's not hard to see why. He already had a big score in the vanilla DreamTeam with 92, but thanks to the starting position he was in, he went well ahead of his teammates and the rest of the rookies.

Now for the highlights package, with the first one showing all his skills at once early in the game.

1 : 3.31 {lHFF} - A very good mark to Cuzz09.
1 : 3.31 {lHFF} - Cuzz09 slowing down the play.
1 : 3.33 {lHFF} - Cuzz09 is tackled beautifully by Freo_4eva.
1 : 3.33 {rHBF} - Freo_4eva sizes the options in front of him.
1 : 3.33 {FB} - He gets a handpass to _Mike_.
1 : 3.33 {rHBF} - The kick seeks out Freo_4eva.
1 : 3.33 {rHBF} - Freo_4evaaleunko!.
1 : 3.33 {rHBF} - Freo_4eva takes off.
1 : 3.33 {rHBF} - Freo_4eva dummy's the handpass and then takes a bounce.
1 : 3.33 {lHBF} - He transfers play using royboy2.
1 : 3.33 {lHBF} - Nice mark by royboy2.

Is apparently good at juggling.

1 : 19.13 {rBP} - Allikat hits the ground running.
1 : 19.17 {CHB} - A long looping handpass to Mooch.
1 : 19.21 {rHBF} - He kicks sideways towards Freo_4eva.
1 : 19.25 {rHBF} - Freo_4eva has one two three bites of the cherry and it's paid.

Was not letting his rookie opponent have any leeway.

1 : 20.23 {CHF} - Hands it off to Matera92.
1 : 20.27 {lHFF} - He handpasses to Cuzz09.
1 : 20.31 {lHFF} - That's a fantasic tackle by Freo_4eva.
1 : 20.36 {rHBF} - Freo_4eva slowing down the play.

Was taking all sorts of spectacular catches.

2 : 1.57 {FB} - Allikat slowing down the play.
2 : 2.01 {rHBF} - Hoofs it forward..
2 : 2.07 {rHBF} - I can't believe Freo_4eva held on to that. What a mark.

I should mention that Cuzz09 could've also gotten candidacy if they had posted.

2 : 14.14 {rW} - tony to send the ball forward.
2 : 14.19 {lHFF} - He tries to find Cuzz09 with a chip pass.
2 : 14.22 {lHFF} - But in the way is Freo_4eva.
2 : 14.26 {rHBF} - Freo_4eva takes off.

Spectacular catch No.4

3 : 20.36 {FB} - windyhill with the ball now.
3 : 20.4 {rHBF} - He gets onto his right side and kicks to Freo_4eva.
3 : 20.44 {rHBF} - Freo_4eva takes that parallel to the ground..

Okay, now he's just rubbing it in.

3 : 22.25 {CHF} - Long handpass to the running Muddiemoose.
3 : 22.29 {lHFF} - A wild kick laterally towards Cuzz09.
3 : 22.32 {lHFF} - Freo_4eva gets a timely fist to the ball.

4 : 6.43 {CHF} - With the ball is Broken.
4 : 6.47 {lHFF} - A slick handpass goes to Cuzz09.
4 : 6.51 {lHFF} - Great tackle by Freo_4eva.

More speccies (now with teammates!)

4 : 7.45 {lHBF} - Dingster does some crumbing and is away.
4 : 7.49 {CHB} - Sees WaywardSonSon out of the corner of his eye.
4 : 7.53 {CHB} - WaywardSonSon runs back with the flight of the ball and takes it!.
4 : 7.57 {CHB} - WaywardSonSon has it. What can he do with it?.
4 : 8.01 {rHBF} - He elects to use Freo_4eva and kicks in that direction.
4 : 8.06 {rHBF} - Oooohhhh you beauty! What a mark to Freo_4eva.

More intercepts.

4 : 16.47 {C} - Now Western Stand Warrior has the ball. What can he do with it?.
4 : 16.51 {rW} - Handballs to tony.
4 : 16.55 {lHFF} - A spearing pass towards Cuzz09.
4 : 16.59 {lHFF} - Freo_4eva is third man up and takes it easily.

Okay, so I could've spilt the highlights into 2 categories; Intercept Marks and Spectacular Marks. But there's been plenty of qootballers and footballers that have had great careers with the exact same trick bag. While the goals were flowing for the opposition by the end of the game, Freo_4eva made sure his opponent wasn't going to be any part of it (despite that opponent almost getting candidacy).

This week for the interview, I found another guitar loving captain of the SFA in TedDougChris. In honour of Freo_4eva's nomination, he held a concert at the Brunswick Junction Oval (I feel like this will be a more regular occurrence in the future). During a set break, I got called on to do the interview in front of the adoring crowd.


FG: Hey TDC, the Roys were unlucky against the Bears in the second half of Round 6, but nearly had a full sweep of the Gun with Freo_4eva getting nommed for his part. How does it feel?
TDC: Hi there !! We're always happy when our rookie players get some deserved recognition, getting new people into the league keeps it ticking over and Freo_4eva is certainly playing his part this season at the Roys !!

FG: Congrats on getting Freo_4eva over to the Roys. Where did you find him, and how is he settling in?
TDC: We found Freo_4eva wandering, a little dazed and confused by the myriad of mid-priced options in the AFL Fantasy board, so while he was distracted - we signed him up to a long term deal, which unlike Collingwood, we intend to honour. It does help we're not actually paying him anything though...

FG: He's was handy for you guys in defence this week, what are your on-field aspirations for Freo_4eva?
TDC: This year our defence has been poor, so shifting people around and trying to get a settled defensive structure is critical, before we inevitably crash out of the finals in straight sets...

FG: I know there's other rookies at the BJO this year, how have they been going themselves in your view?
TDC: We have a few rookies this year, including some that have got so confused and unsettled, they have completely vanished. But Aristotle Pickett , Zevon , Freo_4eva , WaywardSonSon and Wedgetailed Westerner make a good crew (no Supersuns - not a coup) and we're hoping the search party finds Wedgetailed Westerner shortly !!

FG: Now that we're a third into the season and we've seen what rookies every other team has, are there any other rookies that you wish you had gotten your hands on that go alright at qooty?
TDC: There were some good recruits from the pre-season tour of the Fantasy boards, so it's good to see some new faces to the league, although familiar faces from a Fantasy footy perspective getting in and getting involved...

At this stage, and on this stage, TDC had to go warm-up again which left me with the rookie. This was during the week and Freo didn't seem to notice what my other aligence was.

FG: Hey Freo_4eva! Congratulations on the nomination after that disappointing loss. You must be pleased with how you went in the game though. What path did you take to get to the SFA, and where did you first hear about it?
F_4E: Thanks FootyGuy13 its a pleasure to be here. Its always disappointing to lose any game - except when you yourself are dominant. Then a loss doesnt really mean anything, and i was delighted with my Sunday arvo's work and can only wish for a bit more help from the Roys.. maybe one day. I was recruited incredibly hard from the AFL fantasy board by TDC after a starring role in a exhibition game during the off season. Up until then, what i had heard about qooty made me feel dazed and confused. Then i realised its just my age, and the Roys were the team for me.

FG: What are your first impressions of the place? Is TDC, Woosh and the rest of the Roys looking after you?
F_4E: Its a place where everyone who is ordinary at any real physical activity can come and relive or discover how good they can be at an up and coming sport. I felt instantly at home - and the Roys have been very welcoming. Just a class organisation all over.

FG: How do you prepare for a qooty match? Did you think you were going to be a chance of getting the nomination this week?
F_4E: I start my preparation usually by telling my wife or sons "christ, i forgot i have to be on bigfooty this arvo" and then proceed to find my misplaced laptop or boot said sons off it. Beer from the fridge, some kind of salty snack - and then let the magic happen on the field. Didnt think i would get a nomination this week, but then again when you move from HFF to HBF, the ball tends to follow you. I must thank our fearless leader for suck a bold move that didnt pay off game-wise.

FG: What would you like to achieve on the field during your SFA career?
F_4E: Becoming a life member of the Roys would be a small aim for my career.. followed by the ground/grandstand being named after me. I think i can do both if i can keep getting cheap R50's

FG: Have there been any other teams that have stood out for you on the field, or players that you model your qooty on?
F_4E: Not particularly, the standard of the opposition hasnt been great so far.. we have just been worse, which is disappointing. Our age profile would suggest we are in the win here and now category and the window is shutting rather quickly heading into our 60's. We need to do better.

FG: Who else do you think will win the Gun of the Year, and the overall Rising Star? Reckon you’re a shot?
F_4E: I certainly think im a shot.. hopefully if its not me, its one of my fellow AFL Fantasy board players. We never achieve anything of note in fantasy, so it would be nice to win something for a change.

Suddenly, a loud twang with through my body as TDC yelled into the mic that the interview had ended and that the music was about to begin again. I waved at the crowd while leaving the stage while music that my Warrior teammates said was "Dad Rock" filled the air.

Stay tuned for next week when rookies, the same ones but maybe some new, get put in the spotlight instead.

 

[FootyGuy13]

ROUND 7 CANDIDATES

Midfielder of the Week - Aristotle Pickett (ROY) - ADT 75.58
Ah, it's time of the week where I give Aristotle a confidence boost. I give it to them that they make the 75 ADT mark every week, though this week had they scored 1 less DT point, I wouldn't get the chance to talk about them... again. This week, Aristotle had 11 kicks, 6 tackles and a goal in their quest to be the first rookie to take out the Mobbs. The difference being that they were only on the field for 69 minutes, so it is still quite the accomplishment despite the seemingly low ADT score. I guess they also had an epic contest with Mister M so there's another example of Aristotle not just cheating the system in being the only good midfielder in this rookie crop. Because, I mean, seriously, THEY ARE THE ONLY ONE. Imagine if they played other positions.

Forward of the Week - wherearemykeys (GUM) - ADT 163.19
From the guy that's a candidate every week, to a guy that wasn't even a rookie a month ago. wherearemykeys showed up the week the other Gumbie rook won their nomination. Clearly, they haven't been in Grimesy's shadow at the other end of the ground. This week, off 6 kicks, they scored 5 goals 1. 5 GOALS. and a free kick against but still, a rookie Forward Pocket managed to outscore the great Full Forward Rodney Dangerfield while being defended by the Dragon rookie BringBackTheAnchor. 4 games behind everyone else in terms of experience and already is on par with the competition, almost as if the Sim is random and it doesn't matter who you are. We've already had the Gumbies captain come in and already boast about victory so let's see if he's right. Still, FIVE GOALS.

WildCard of the Week1 - DockerDen5215 (CIW) - ADT 92.03
Long time, no see. After being within striking distance of taking the first nomination, DockerDen has either scored miserably, or been plain unlucky in the weeks after. They certainly make sure they post every week to stay eligible. This week, 16 disposals, 5 marks and scored 2 goals 1 to make the weekend for them bearable. Playing at Half-Forward, DockerDen showed their opponent they were up for the fight, despite the Biggie task to ask of a rookie. Off the field, DockerDen is in the box seat to take out the Torch, in my totally unbiased opinion. All they need to do continue what they are doing in the Gun and the nomination will surely follow, either this week or a week in the future. I mean that's true of all rookies, keep being good at qooty and show up during the week.

WildCard of the Week2 - Catsnlakers (SCS) - ADT 88.69
Because if you don't, I get to say stats like this. This week, of the 9 rookies that reached the 75 ADT benchmark but had yet to get a nom, only 4 had posted before kick-off. Making this week really easy to figure out who the candidates were as they were the only options. Now of course this is just one week, I just wanted to point out the bare stocks in terms of choices. Catsnlakers racked up 10 disposals off Forward Pocket. I don't think they even touched the ball before moving off Forward Pocket. Either way, Catsnlakers was deemed the winner in every match-up they had. That included going up against the opposition captain. There is no such thing as "making up the numbers" when it comes to this and Catsnlakers proves that by being a small but important cog that was the Swamprat machine in Round 7.


Will wherearemykeys be the runaway winner and give the Gumbies another Gun nom? Will DockerDen make up for Round 1 and get their reward? Will Catsnlakers make Gremio just the happiest person in the world? Will Aristotle finally get that nomination that is just out of their reach?

WHO DO YOU THINK IS GOING TO BE THIS WEEK'S "GUN"?​

 

[FootyGuy13]

Every week, I realise I don't know how to start these so this week I just wanna say that anyone who goes on Twitter, YouTube, Reddit or those sorts of sites just to pile on hate on someone or something are absolutely dense and brainless. I'm not meaning going online to say the umpires were biased after your team lost, I mean devoting every minute of your free time to hating a show, comedian, actor, musician, what have you, simply because you don't like it, or have stopped liking it. If it's something illegal, then of course bring it to the light, but if it's because you don't find the jokes funny, or because you don't like that particular genre or whatever, then stop going out of your way just to hate on it. Just move on and if enough people move on, only then will it send a message.

Anyway yeah, with just 4 people of the 9 eligible to get the nom this week posting, it was quite easy to pick the winner seeing as they nearly had twice the ADT as the next guy. It was kinda hard trying to be like "everyone has a chance" when really this was decided the moment the matches got posted. So yes, Aristotle Pickett, Catsnlakers and DockerDen5215, the Round 7 Gun nomination is…


wherearemykeys has had to play catch up with the rest of the rookies, which is lucky for those rookies as wherearemykeys has been doing great for the Gumbies in the forward line. Of course we've already seen how to get a nomination from starting in the Forward Pocket, but let's see wherearemykeys' highlights to see how to get one by staying in the Forward Pocket.

It took a literal minute for him to get on the board.

1 : .01 {C} - Long tap from Strigoi.
1 : .1 {C} - EagleOz scoops up the ball.
1 : .13 {C} - Quick hands to Barrybran under pressure.
1 : .18 {C} - No-look handpass to GWS Goose.
1 : .22 {C} - A slick handpass goes to Barrybran.
1 : .26 {rW} - Handpass over the shoulder to Ned Ryerson.
1 : .3 {lHFF} - Geeze he's got onto that one. Pressure on Grimesy87 to mark.
1 : .34 {lHFF} - Grimesy87 with a one-hander.
1 : .38 {lHFF} - Grimesy87 looking for a lead.
1 : .43 {rFP} - A mongrel punt in the direction of wherearemykeys.
1 : .46 {rFP} - The ball drops short of wherearemykeys.
1 : .51 {rFP} - wherearemykeys takes off.
1 : .55 {rFP} - A snap at goal ....
1 : .59 {rFP} - And wherearemykeys doesn't disappoint us.
Gumbies FFC : 1.0.6
Dragons FFC : 0.0.0

He was kicking a goal every time he touched the ball

1 : 2.34 {C} - Barrybran wins the tapout.
1 : 2.35 {lW} - StFly with some space now.
1 : 2.38 {CHF} - Finds Brick Loosener with a handball.
1 : 2.4 {rFP} - Searching pass in the direction of wherearemykeys.
1 : 2.44 {rFP} - Here's a chance for an opportunist rover.
1 : 2.48 {rFP} - wherearemykeys sucks it up like a dustbuster and he's off and running.
1 : 2.52 {rFP} - wherearemykeys eye's the goals and has a shot.
1 : 2.57 {rFP} - I think he's snuck it in. Full points.
Gumbies FFC : 2.0.12
Dragons FFC : 1.0.6

He was making sure BringBackTheAnchor paid for any mistake.

2 : 14.47 {FB} - Chief with the ball now.
2 : 14.51 {lHBF} - Stoods presents on a long lead.
2 : 14.55 {lHBF} - Stoods is caught under pressure and knocks the ball forward.
2 : 15 {CHF} - omgfridge looking for a lead.
2 : 15.04 {rFP} - Geeze he's got onto that one. Pressure on wherearemykeys to mark.
2 : 15.08 {rFP} - BringBackTheAnchor drops an absolute sitter.
2 : 15.12 {rFP} - wherearemykeys with some space now.
2 : 15.16 {rFP} - wherearemykeys sells the dummy and has a shot.
2 : 15.2 {rFP} - Brilliant goal to wherearemykeys.
Gumbies FFC : 8.8.56
Dragons FFC : 3.2.20

He was making sure BringBackTheAnchor paid for having the ball.

2 : 23.51 {lBP} - BringBackTheAnchor with all the time in the world.
2 : 23.55 {lBP} - BringBackTheAnchor sells the dummy and helps himself to a bounce.
2 : 24 {lBP} - Huge bump by wherearemykeys on BringBackTheAnchor.

How many goals was this now? I've lost count.

3 : 2.38 {C} - Nobody's checking EagleOz.
3 : 2.42 {CHF} - He gets a handpass to omgfridge.
3 : 2.46 {CHF} - GWS Goose receives his handpass.
3 : 2.5 {rFP} - Searching pass in the direction of wherearemykeys.
3 : 2.54 {rFP} - The ball spills free.
3 : 2.58 {rFP} - wherearemykeys weaves through the congestion.
3 : 3.11 {rFP} - A bit of space for wherearemykeys to utilise.
3 : 3.17 {rFP} - wherearemykeys's eyes light up - he fires at goal.
3 : 3.19 {rFP} - What a goal.
Gumbies FFC : 9.10.64
Dragons FFC : 5.3.33

A quiet end to the game, compared to how busy he was at the start.

4 : 11.54 {FB} - Cold Sober breaks a tackle and is off.
4 : 11.58 {rHBF} - His kick covers more height than distance.
4 : 12.03 {rHBF} - Grimesy87 is third man up and takes it easily.
4 : 12.08 {lHFF} - Grimesy87 picks it up on the bounce.
4 : 12.11 {rFP} - He looks for wherearemykeys.
4 : 12.15 {rFP} - No-one can take the mark.
4 : 12.17 {rFP} - wherearemykeys assessing what lies ahead of him.
4 : 12.23 {rFP} - This should be a certain goal.
4 : 12.33 {rFP} - It's through.
Gumbies FFC : 14.16.100
Dragons FFC : 9.6.60

5 goals in the end for a rookie Forward Pocket. Quite the feat. It was always going to take some effort to beat an effort like that and no one was anywhere close to that performance in Round 7. Certainly has no trouble figuring out where the goals are.

On that topic, when I went to talk to Barrybran and wherearemykeys, I got roped into looking for the rookie's keys. Unfortunately, in the mood I was in after witnessing what I talked about at the start of this post, I lost the footage of the interview. Luckily, tony made a back-up using Lego.


FG: Hey Baz, what a game against the Dragons in Round 7! And what a game from wherearemykeys to be the second Gumbies Gun nom. How does it feel?
BB: It feels good to win and it feels good to see a rookie do well

FG: Congrats on getting wherearemykeys over to the Gumbies. Where did you find him, and how is he settling in?
BB: wherearemykeys stumbled into the sign up thread when he was looking for his keys, someone mentioned Gumbies, wherearemykeys misheard them and he wound up joining us. He's still finding his feet a bit but is settling in well.

FG: He's been handy for you in just the 3 weeks he's been here, what are your on-field aspirations for wherearemykeys?
BB: Just to play his role. A bag is nice every now and then but if he can provide support to Rodney Dangerfield and BlueE up front he'll have done his job.

FG: Last time we talked was for the nomination of Grimesy. How's he tracking and will there be more rookies to add?
BB: Grimesy87 still pokes his head in here and there. He's not an everyday poster but is there on game day, around in the team PM and compliments the group nicely with what he adds. As for more rookies, well, I said I wasn't holding my breath on signing any more when we last spoke and wherearemykeys wandered in. Now I'm under pressure to keep adding rookies so we can keep earning these nominations.

FG: Now that we're almost halfway into the season and we've seen what rookies every other team has, are there any other rookies that you wish you had gotten your hands on that go alright at qooty?
BB: Not really but I'm looking forward to seeing GREENESHOOTS in a match thread. I've enjoyed the little snippets I've seen of him lately.

Hold on while tony switches the figures around to look like I'm now talking to the rookie. Here we go.

FG: Hey wherearemykeys! Congratulations on the nomination after 3 weeks. You must be pleased with how you went in the game. What path did you take to get to the SFA, and where did you first hear about it?
wamk: Hey mate, thanks for that. So my path to the SFA was a long and winding one; I've been cutting my teeth with Robbo from the Herald Sun for several years. During a night out with him over a beer or 3 and a large mixed kebab (extra garlic sauce, no tomato), he mentioned "SFA" to me, and I thought it sounded interesting. At least, I think that's what he meant. He did also mention "SFA" when I asked him how much thought and research he put into his columns, so actually, now, come to think of it, maybe that's what he meant.

FG: What are your first impressions of the place? Is Baz, Fridge and the rest of the Gumbies looking after you?
wamk: I can't speak highly enough of the crew at the Gumbies, they've all welcomed me with open arms. I did have offers from many clubs, but the deciding factor for me in choosing the Gumbies was their innate coaching ability; players want to play for a team that bucks the current trends and does things differently. I mean, leaving the full-forward on the bench for a big final - you just can't teach that. That takes a special someone with a nuanced understanding of the game, and as soon as I saw that, I knew they were the club for me.

FG: How do you prepare for a qooty match? Did you think you were going to be a chance of getting the nomination this week?
wamk: My prep is pretty standard for a qooty player I guess; a few beers, a couple of Chiko rolls, an hour of watching old Aerobics Oz Style videos on YouTube followed by some "self-reflection". Then I sit back with my laptop, safe in the knowledge of a job well done. I have to admit, after kicking 5 goals, I did think I'd be a rough chance of getting the nomination, but qooty is a strange game, so you never know.

FG: What would you like to achieve on the field during your SFA career?
wamk: Playing in the SFA and kicking a goal has been my lifelong childhood dream ever since I debuted 3 weeks ago, so I'm not sure what else there is to achieve. I would like to be a 1 club player, so if I could stay with the Gumbies, I'd be happy. I have no leadership ambitions, I'm way too lazy for that, and the pay isn't worth it.

FG: Have there been any other teams that have stood out for you on the field, or players that you model your qooty on?
wamk: I think it would be unfair to single out the Gumbies as the only team to impress me, so I won't. (I'm easily impressed).

FG: Who else do you think will win the Gun of the Year, and the overall Rising Star? Reckon you’re a shot?
wamk: I don't hold the hose mate. But if I had to pick, I'll give it to my teammate Grimesy winning both. I'm not sure I can win with my late start to the season, and forward pocket isn't a traditional vote-getting position, but you never know. I jagged this week's nomination, so that'll do me.

Alright, that is that week gone and in the past, only to be remembered when I think about things that make me give up on humanity. But that's life and there's bigger things to get hung up on, like the Round 8 nomination.

See you then.

 

[FootyGuy13]

ROUND 8 CANDIDATES

Defender of the Week - Catsnlakers (SCS) - ADT 108.65
Alright, time to make Gremio happy first thing this week, Catsnlakers was the best defender. How was Catsnlakers the best rookie defender of the round? They were the only rookie defender to reach 75 ADT. They also kept their direct opponent to 1 goal for the entire game, so it's not they're being mentioned purely to have a defender here. On top of that, Catsnlakers managed to have 20 disposals for themselves, 5 marks and a tackle. You can definitely tell that this person wasn't the reason they lost on the weekend. Unfortunately, keeping one person off the scoreboard doesn't stop the rest of the team scoring (at least, not every time) but it maybe enough to snag a Gun nomination.

Midfielder of the Week - Aristotle Pickett (ROY) - ADT 101.49
Standing between Catsnlakers and Gremio targeting powerrrrrrrrrrrr next is Aristotle Pickett. Now, I've made jokes about how Aristotle is always mentioned here every week, but this week they actually have a chance of taking the weekly nomination by finally reaching 100 ADT points. With 26 disposals, 5 tackles, 2 frees and a goal, the only thing that went against them on the day was the fact that the opposition captain was Best-on-Ground by a LONG margin. Getting benched with 7 minutes to go doesn't help either. So while they won't get the 3 Mobbs votes (or any Mobbs votes looking at the stats), this maybe the long awaited week that Aristotle Pickett gets sour looks from the Rats camp.

Forward of the Week - DockerDen5215 (CIW) - ADT 83.26
Onto the player that lost to Aristotle's team, DockerDen is back on the candidates list. DockerDen's opponent was on the Roy rookie that already has a Gun nomination, which showed with the sim saying Freo_4eva won the match-up, but that doesn't mean DockerDen was acting like a witch's hat on the field. 16 disposals, 7 marks, they even added 2 more to their overall Frees Against tally. The only problem that stops these stats from looking good is that DockerDen scored 3 behinds without a goal. Now, being in the team atop the ladder, this sort of performance can be overlooked (not that they usually kick 0.3), but not this week, not in a loss. Come on, at least I scored 2.3, and I KNOW I played terribly.

WildCard of the Week - Jabba73 (BAG) - ADT 84.57
Commiserations to Zevon who just missed out, Jabba73 takes the last spot thanks to a 10-goal outing that saw the ball get plenty of time getting bounced up in the middle. Yes, they were deemed to lost their match-up to the Buddy Franklin of the comp (why is a Full-Forward being used in the ruck?) but that just means it was a big day out for both rucks in that game. 18 hitouts (3 more than the opponent), 20 disposals, 2 frees, a tackle and a couple of goals, Jabba was doing all that the Bombers could ask of them and more. It's a wild coincidence that every candidate his week lost their match-up, or maybe that's the level of competition the league is giving the rookies, because they certainly didn't have bad games. Have a look...


Will Catsnlakers make for interesting reading on Saturday? Will Aristotle spoil the party and cause a meltdown? Can one of Jabba or DockerDen surprise everyone and take home their team's first Gun nomination for the season?

WHO DO YOU THINK IS GOING TO BE THIS WEEK'S "GUN"?​

 

[FootyGuy13]

With the way this is run, 8 players will spend more time having a nomination for longer than the time the tried getting one. The last of of those 8 being revealed today. A further 8, of course, will spend more of the season trying to get a nomination over the little time left that they can brag about having one, and last one might be more worried about winning their first final or might already be waiting for the new season before getting theirs. Back to that first sentence though, the first half of the nominations will be revealed either next week or the next (depending on where you think the middle of this season is). Thanks to the 2 big scorers this week not posting, the winning ADT score was barely over 100, so yes that does already eliminate DockerDen5215 and Jabba73. It was very close between Aristotle Pickett and Catsnlakers in terms of ADT. Both did their job well and both have been racking up candidate spots without being fully recognised for many weeks. One however was considered in the end better than the other due to a statistic that the sim doesn't even cover, and because of that statistic, the Round 8 Gun nomination is…

Yes, Catsnlakers had a great defensive game against the Hawks, and it was unfortunate (well, unfortunate for the Swampies) that one great defensive game doesn't mean that everyone else on the team will figure out how to do the same. Restricting his opponent down to just 1 goal, Catsnlakers was also able to contribute in other places on the ground, such as...
​

He's considered to be the sensible option

1 : 20.02 {FB} - jackster83 takes off.
1 : 20.07 {FB} - jackster83 dummy's the handpass and then takes a bounce.
1 : 20.11 {lHBF} - He chooses the sensible option - to kick it long.
1 : 20.15 {lHBF} - Catsnlakers takes a strong mark.

He was toying with his opponent from an early stage

1 : 21.1 {rHBF} - Hands it off to philreich.
1 : 21.15 {rHBF} - A long looping handpass to Ant Bear.
1 : 21.19 {lHBF} - He kicks sideways towards Catsnlakers.
1 : 21.23 {lHBF} - TY24 claims the mark but its play on.
1 : 21.27 {lHBF} - Catsnlakers fighting to get a clear kick.
1 : 21.31 {lHBF} - Fires out the handpass to philreich.
1 : 21.36 {CHB} - A quick handpass to GremioPower.
1 : 21.39 {lHBF} - Quick hands to Catsnlakers.
1 : 21.43 {lHBF} - A long looping handpass to philreich.
1 : 21.47 {lHBF} - Chipmunk has been pushed out.
1 : 21.52 {rHFF} - Now TY24 has the ball. What can he do with it?.

A real tussle between the two rivals

2 : 12.08 {CHF} - A poor handpass but Chipmunk is up to the challenge.
2 : 12.13 {rHFF} - He kicks sideways towards TY24.
2 : 12.17 {rHFF} - No mark taken as TY24 and Catsnlakers wrestle for position.
2 : 12.21 {lHBF} - Catsnlakers slowing down the play.
2 : 12.25 {lHBF} - What a tackle.
2 : 12.3 {rHFF} - Who wants it? TY24 does. Great stuff.
2 : 12.36 {rHFF} - Crunching tackle by Catsnlakers.
2 : 12.4 {lHBF} - Its hard and tough but Catsnlakers wins possession.

I think that's the definition of a ball magnet

2 : 21.36 {C} - Agent93 takes them on.
2 : 21.39 {rHFF} - A hospital kick.
2 : 21.43 {rHFF} - Ooh the kick has gone straight to Catsnlakers.

Check out this burst of speed

3 : 5.43 {lW} - por_please_ya signals for her teammates to present.
3 : 5.48 {C} - An underground handpass to Agent93.
3 : 5.52 {rHFF} - TY24 and Catsnlakers jostle for position.
3 : 5.56 {rHFF} - But straight to Catsnlakers.
3 : 6 {lHBF} - Catsnlakers takes off.
3 : 6.04 {lHBF} - He takes the opportunity to bounce.
3 : 6.08 {lW} - He takes another.

Another intercept mark

3 : 8.18 {lHFF} - Nobody's checking Red mist.
3 : 8.24 {lHFF} - Fires out the handpass to Golumless.
3 : 8.28 {rHFF} - He beckons for a lead.
3 : 8.32 {rHFF} - Catsnlakers intercepts the kick and marks.

Not even the S30 rookies were safe

3 : 21.06 {lW} - Passes to PMBangers by hand.
3 : 21.1 {CHF} - A wobbly old kick.
3 : 21.15 {CHF} - Great mark! No! The umpire calls play on.
3 : 21.19 {lHBF} - Catsnlakers is now off and running.
3 : 21.23 {CHB} - Spears a kick towards GremioPower.

His opponent was not going to have an easy time of it

4 : 6.26 {CHF} - NinjaSwan to send the ball forward.
4 : 6.31 {rHFF} - He elects to use TY24 and kicks in that direction.
4 : 6.35 {rHFF} - No mark taken as TY24 and Catsnlakers wrestle for position.
4 : 6.39 {lHBF} - Catsnlakers has it.
4 : 6.43 {C} - He rewards the Ant Bear lead.

I starting to see why GremioPower likes the kid

4 : 14.06 {CHB} - Gets a handpass away to GremioPower.
4 : 14.1 {lHBF} - He elects to use Catsnlakers and kicks in that direction.
4 : 14.15 {lHBF} - Catsnlakers outbodies TY24 and takes the mark.
4 : 14.19 {lHBF} - With the ball is Catsnlakers.
4 : 14.22 {lHBF} - GotTheGoodes runs past and takes the handpass.

A last little headache for the opponent

4 : 20.07 {lW} - Nobody's checking por_please_ya.
4 : 20.11 {rHFF} - That kick makes it hard for TY24.
4 : 20.15 {rHFF} - Catsnlakers did enough to prevent a mark being taken.

I don't how a forward that only kicks 1 goal manages to be the winner of the match-up but that's not up for me to decide. I only decide who wins half of an award that only noobies care about. This week, I got to go to the Swamplands of Alberton to meet up with philshrek, Catsnboots and a flamin ASNO and ask them questions.


I'm glad tony puts up with my requests.

FG: Hey phil, unfortunate result against the Hawks in Round 8, but what a game from Catsnlakers to be the second Swampie Gun nom. How does it feel?
phil: CNL isn't everyone's cup of tea (although Jabba73 loves him ), but he plays the antagonistic role really well, and he's quickly become an integral part of the team.
GP: That's true. It's certainly a roll that was vacant at the Rats, and Cats naturally picked the part. It was immediately. No one asked anything. He simply began acting like that, and we let him go with it. The Jab v. Cats interaction when we played the Bombers were great (Jabba indeed seems to agree!). We would love to see them doing that more often.

FG: Congrats on getting Catsnlakers over to the Rats. Where did you find him, and how is he settling in?
phil: I'd like to say that it was due to my impeccable recruiting skills, but I'd be lying - the SFA's Don Bradman of recruiters in Dingster. I swear the man could find somebody on the GWS board!!!
GP: Thanks, Dingster! A former Swamprat and an SFA Hall-of-Famer. Pure class.

FG: He's been handy for you guys wherever you've put him on the field, what are your on-field aspirations for Catsnlakers?
phil: The team is still a work in progress (as a public servant, it pains me to use the word work!!!), and as such, he's moved around a bit this season. But when we find his ideal position, he'll be one of the superstars of the competition.
GP: Talent is certainly there. No doubt. He is, what, the second rookie to win both Torch and Gun, right? (He should have been the first, but it doesn't matter.) Regardless, Cats has been having an outstanding season so far. We are very pleased to see that the committee agrees with us!

FG: Last time we talked was for the nomination of FishingRick. How's he tracking and will there be more rookies to add?
phil: Rick has been a welcome addition to the squad, although he's given the selection committee a piece of his mind on more than one occasion, if he hasn't been happy with where he's been selected.

Can't give too much away, but we hope to announce something before the end of the season. The person we have in mind has been busier than Donald Trump's lawyers in recent months, and hasn't been able to devote the necessary time to the SFA - hopefully that will change soon.
GP: Don't look at me. He hides this from his own Leadership Group. We don't know it either!

FG: Now that we're almost halfway into the season and we've seen what rookies every other team has, are there any other rookies that you wish you had gotten your hands on that go alright at qooty?
phil: Apparently that Zevon goes OK, but it is what it is - we're happy with what we have.
GP: Yes, we are. S31 is not void of rookie quality at all. The Rats have the best rookies in the competition. I say that even with powerrrrrrrrrrrr disapperared (I suspect Cleverbot has something to do with this). It's a long season. We still have hope he will return.

Still, the other clubs have great new players as well. We had already mentioned Jabba73; now phil named Zevon. The Freo border continues to bring quality to Sweet, this time with GREENESHOOTS, DockerDen5215, and others. There are certainly more. Some take a bit longer to settle in.

By the way, on the Roys, Dingster wouldn't let a gem like Catsnlakers coming to us without a reason. The rookie crop at the Roys is again very good. Zevon is not alone. Hopefully, they will hold them all this time (Hi, BLUEALLTHRU! Hello, RobR!).

Before the asno continues on his tangent, I have someone clawing at the legs looking for attention. Let's see what they want.

FG: Hey Catsnlakers! Congratulations on the nomination after all that nagging. You must be pleased with how you went in the game. What path did you take to get to the SFA, and where did you first hear about it?
Cnl: Thank you for FINALLY nominating me, for a while I was wondering if it would ever happen, it would of been an embarrassment to the committee & it’s wisdom if it hadn’t. On my performance I am always happy to do my part, but if we lose it feels a little hollow. And you can thank Dingster for getting me here, he introduced me to the skipper & so it went, I’ve certainly landed in the right place.

FG: What are your first impressions of the place? Is phil, Gremio and the rest of the Swampies looking after you?
Cnl: The Underground is a place for someone who loves to drink, mate with rats of the female variety & generally talk sh*t, so I love the place. And all the boys have been great, they realised early on they had a ‘Gun’ on their hands & have allowed me to demonstrate that time & again.

FG: How do you prepare for a qooty match? Did you think you were going to be a chance of getting the nomination this week?
Cnl: I’ve thought I was a chance to get nominated every week since I’ve started, the manner in which I play is bound to get noticed, especially in comparison to some of my competition...And I prepare for a qooty match by getting blind on the Saturday night, drinking predominantly green fairy, & on the Sunday morning I usually drag myself out of bed at about 11am, chuck a few $heets on the horses & from there it’s off to the venue, with a beer in hand.

FG: What would you like to achieve on the field during your SFA career?
Cnl: Win a premiership, Win every single individual award possible, embarrass every opponent who gets the honour to play on me, & end up with a trophy wife when it’s all said & done.

FG: Have there been any other teams that have stood out for you on the field, or players that you model your qooty on?
Cnl: The Bears were impressive to me, both in banter & playing ability....And I don’t model my game on anyone in particular, but I do like the way Ant Bear & Phil go about it.

FG: Who else do you think will win the Gun of the Year, and the overall Rising Star? Reckon you’re a shot?
Cnl: I think if these awards don’t come my way someone has been derelict in their duty, & it would be quite simply egregious.

Next week starts the second half the season. Which player will get their long-awaited nomination and get the chance to the overall winner? I dunno, maybe if you paid attention you'd already know that question.

 

[FootyGuy13]

ROUND 9 CANDIDATES

Defender of the Week - Zoops (ESH) - ADT 135.03
Well here's a unfamiliar face. Having not been seen since Round 2, it seems that Zoops has been doing enough to stay at the Half-Back line so far, but not enough for the sim and ADT to reward them. This round is only the third time that Zoops has scored over 75 ADT. And one would think that it wouldn't happen again in a game where they lost by 68 points but, instead of lying down, Zoops dominated their opponent by racking up 27 disposals (=10th in the league this week), 5 marks, a tackle and a Free. It's a rare visit from Zoops, but the performance might just be enough to get a nomination this week after such a disappointing team outing.

Midfielder of the Week - Aristotle Pickett (ROY) - ADT 98.25
Well here's a familiar face. There is just no competition in the midfield section of rookies for Aristotle, and I will keep mentioning that until a time in which it stops being true. This week though, we're back to the usual ADT score of 90 something. Aristotle is certainly consistent in the way they keep doing this, and at this point I'm wondering if Aristotle even cares about getting candidacy anymore. 27 disposals, 5 tackles and 5 Frees, a down week statistically for Pickett, which says it all when that stat line is considered a down week. Aristotle will definitely get a nomination this season, their posting stats will make sure of that, and this week will be as good a week for that to happen.

Forward of the Week - Zevon (ROY) - ADT 119.78
Another Roy to be given candidacy this week, Zevon doesn't appear as often as their rookie teammate but gets bigger scores that makes them noticed more. In the Half-Forward line, Zevon only scored 1 goal. They also compiled 12 kicks, 8 marks, 3 tackles and 3 Free Against so they were getting busy at other facets of the game that was just more than contributing to the scoreboard. The sim also reckoned that Zevon won their match-up for the game, which begs the question of what the defender was doing if a forward only scores once and still comes on top. Zevon has been here a few times, how much longer before they get a nomination, and could it be this very week?

WildCard of the Week - crazywildhorse (FUR) - ADT 77.60
A literal new face. crazywildhorse wasn't even a part of a time this time last week and has had an immediate impact in their debut game. The other Furies rookies that have yet to be nominated have not yet been seen in the list of candidates so far so for crazywildhorse to jump right in off of a debut shows why the Furies were so eager to get them into the side. 9 kicks, 6 marks, 4 handballs in what would be an ordinary performance in a high-scoring loss except this was done in defense, and one has to wonder how many of those 6 marks were interceptions. Welcome to the SFA crazywildhorse, I get the feeling we'll be talking about you for the rest of your rookie season.


Can Zoops give the Hawks something to celebrate this week? Will the Roys rookies continue their dominance of this award? Can crazywildhorse go from neutral outsider to Rising Star Gun nomination in record speed?

WHO DO YOU THINK IS GOING TO BE THIS WEEK'S "GUN"?​

 

[FootyGuy13]

You know what makes me like the Gun Award over the Torch award? The fact that your chances and your fate in doing well in this Award is not up to you, but up to a random simulator. It doesn't care about anything to do with you or your competitors, it just sees a name in a position and does whatever it wants with it. So which names did it see and randomly give good ratings to? Well, some were Roys because there's so many of them that there's bound to be one up for being good every week. Then there was the newbie Furie that's come straight outta the blocks to be in contention of a nomination off their first game. This week, however, there was a clear stand-out in the rookie field and many better performances that didn't bother to post. Making the Round 9 Gun nomination to be…


No not Manangatang, ZOOPS!

Zoops hasn't featured much in the weekly candidates glow-up, but maybe that's all the reason to showcase what a great job he did in defense in an embarrassing loss. Not only did he take on a stalwart of League, but kept him scoreless in a landslide victory for the opponent!

The highlights:

Helped set-up a big mark

1 : 5.55 {rHFF} - Searching pass in the direction of sausageroll.
1 : 6 {rHFF} - That's an extraordinary juggled one-hander to Drunkgoliath.
1 : 6.04 {rHBF} - Zoops tucks the ball under his arm and scoots away.
1 : 6.06 {C} - Biggie calls for it.
1 : 6.1 {C} - Ohhh Biggie! You beauty! Sensational grab.

He knows where to be.

1 : 8.1 {C} - DemonJim to send the ball forward.
1 : 8.11 {lHFF} - He kicks to a contest.
1 : 8.16 {lHFF} - Zoops was hanging around the back of the pack but the ball fell into his lap.

Mustn't be a fan of fancy footwork

2 : 14.31 {lHFF} - A wild kick laterally towards Dero.
2 : 14.35 {lHFF} - Dero is caught under pressure and knocks the ball forward.
2 : 14.37 {lHFF} - Dero dances around Zoops.
2 : 14.41 {lHFF} - Great tackle by Zoops.
2 : 14.45 {rHBF} - Zoops looks downfield.

But he's definitely a fan of his opponent stuffing up.

2 : 15.28 {C} - DemonJim wants to get on with proceedings.
2 : 15.33 {lHFF} - His kick covers more height than distance.
2 : 15.35 {lHFF} - Dero slips at the crucial moment and its marked by Zoops.

Intercept Marks seemed to be easy to come by.

2 : 18.07 {C} - DemonJim wants to get on with proceedings.
2 : 18.12 {lHFF} - That's a real up and under.
2 : 18.15 {lHFF} - But the kick goes straight to Zoops.

What would this be, a 1-2-1-2-1?

2 : 20.37 {rHFF} - Big mark by Drunkgoliath!.
2 : 20.42 {rHBF} - Zoops threads his way through traffic.
2 : 20.44 {rHBF} - Zoops takes a bounce and nearly fumbles it.
2 : 20.48 {lHBF} - Almost a throw to Drunkgoliath.
2 : 20.52 {rHBF} - An underground handpass to Zoops.
2 : 20.54 {lHBF} - Drunkgoliath runs past and takes the handpass.

Okay, now he's just doing this on purpose.

2 : 22.43 {lHFF} - Kicks to a contest - Dero looks to get to thre front.
2 : 22.47 {lHFF} - Dero can't take it.
2 : 22.49 {rHBF} - Running with the ball is Zoops.
2 : 22.53 {lW} - A flat punt.
2 : 22.55 {lW} - Big mark by Callums_Guns!.
2 : 23 {C} - DemonJim with the ball now.
2 : 23.04 {C} - He has time to take a bounce.
2 : 23.06 {lHFF} - A spearing pass towards Dero.
2 : 23.1 {lHFF} - Top mark - not paid.
2 : 23.14 {rHBF} - A bit of space for Zoops to utilise.

More of the same

3 : 4.29 {C} - Draws a man and then with hands to pantskyle.
3 : 4.33 {lHFF} - He gets his kick away.
3 : 4.37 {lHFF} - Dero gets too far under the ball.
3 : 4.4 {rHBF} - Zoops sucks it up like a dustbuster and he's off and running.

For the rest of the game, Zoops would be a part of disposal chains, getting the ball out of their defensive 50. I'm not going to post them in the highlights since there's so many, but because there is so many where he's getting the ball further down the field and not immediately coming back, I'm just going to mention that it was his role and that he did his role at the best one could have done.

Now, if you notice Zoops' Avatar Pic, you'll see where the interview is going. I, on the other hand, was surprised when I was told to go to Buller to talk to Agent93 and Zoops. It was when I arrived that I found out 2 things. 1) That Mount Buller has a Ice-Rink, though I'm still not sure if the Demons own it or not, and that 2) I was going to be doing the interview while learning how to ice-skate. This was going to be interesting time.


FG: Hey Agent, the Hawks got killed by the Demons in the second half of Round 6, but Zoops getting nommed for his big game must be something to celebrate. How does it feel?
A93: I think any personal accolades have to be tempered by the team's current performance. Zoops killed it, but as a whole we sucked. Sucking doesn't feel great, man.

FG: Congrats on getting Zoops over to the Hawks. Where did you find him, and how is he settling in?
A93: We picked up Zoops after the Tour match on the FJGD board, which is interesting as the Hawks are known to both be terrible at graphic design, and stealing footy jumpers. Zoops is still finding his feet around the place, which is to be expected as the SFA is a lot to take in especially for folks who aren't really volume posters elsewhere on BF. His club-mates love seeing him pop up when he does though.

FG: He was handy for you guys in defence this week, what are your on-field aspirations for Zoops?
A93: I'd be happy for him to find a spot to make his own. He has been rolled forward a couple of times this season, and it took a bit to get that first SFA goal, so down back might be the way to go.

FG: I know there's another rookie at the Eyrie this year, how have they been going themselves in your view?
A93: andleanback hasn't really taken to the SFA, which happens. If he did decided to flick the switch and jump right in the league and the Hawks would be better for it.

FG: Now that we're over halfway into the season and we've seen what rookies every other team has, are there any other rookies that you wish you had gotten your hands on that go alright at qooty?
A93: All teams would love to have that gun EKA candidate every season, but we looked at our list at the end of S30 and knew we didn't have a huge amount of spots to chase every rookie. So we got Zoops and andleanback and didn't actually chase any of the other S31 rookie class. DockerDen5215 is great value, but we were never a chance to recruit him in the first place so while it'd be nice to have him on our list, he was always going to be a Warrior so I have no regrets in not getting him.

At this stage, I fell over. Again. And as quickly as I was hitting the ice, Zoops showed up to get his questions.

FG: Hey Zoops! Congratulations on the nomination after that humiliating loss. You must be pleased with how you went in the game though. What path did you take to get to the SFA, and where did you first hear about it?
Zoops: Hey, humiliating is a strong word, but yeah, we were embarrassed, quite a bit. Personally I'm satisfied with my own performance, however, a win probably would've been nicer, but hey, that's the fire for next week's fuel. I came over to the SFA after playing for the FJGD team during the tour match. I went alright, enjoyed the banter, few laughs here and there and of course, slotted nicely into the backline for the FJGD. I was already aware of it, however, only vaguely. I heard about the Baghdad Bombers, thought it was George Bush joke, and being a Melbourne fan had a chuckle at the Mount Buller Demons, however, that was all I knew. Then after I uttered the words; "Now that was good fun. I'll certainly be wanting to hang around the SFA board a lot more often!" I was inundated with offers from various clubs. It was a toss up between the Demons and the Hawks and I think you all know what happened next.

FG: What are your first impressions of the place? Is Agent, Bangers, Chip, Porps and the rest of the Hawks looking after you?
Zoops: I'm really enjoying it so far. The messages are fun, usually I'll come in and do a whole lot of scrolling and just end up posting a gif, it works. Agent has been great, back and forth hockey banter, especially when your own fan base is known for being loud, obnoxious and at times, destructive. Bangers, Chip and Porps, in fact all the lads have been great. I'm still easing into it, however, I'll find my feet at some stage. I'm still a student and I'm usually pretty bored so at times I'll hop on here, scroll and browse and with the SFA, I can scroll, browse and chat for longer!

FG: How do you prepare for a qooty match? Did you think you were going to be a chance of getting the nomination this week?
Zoops: Before any game I race in for my DreamTeam nominations, once in, I sit back, sort of relax and pin my eyes to the screen. At the start of the season I was preoccupied with cricket, however, now that my season of bowling offies is over, Qooty is all the rage for me now! I never contemplated the thought of this week's and other nominations, however, I did see my name next to some rather nice stats and thought "hey, that could be worthy of something", funnily enough, I was right!

FG: What would you like to achieve on the field during your SFA career?
Zoops: Gain a solid position, half back seems to be working okay (Skip, I am comfortable down here). Probably launch into more convos and become more active within the SFA community. One thing is for sure though, I don't plan on leaving the SFA any time soon.

FG: Have there been any other teams that have stood out for you on the field, or players that you model your qooty on?
Zoops: Not too many actually, as I'm not so active on here, I never really know who and what to look out for, however, having played a few games I'm starting to find who and what to keep my eyes on. Barrybran first made me aware of the SFA through the FJGD tour match so I would model some of my qooty off of him. As a half back flanker I would like to compare myself to Brendon Goddard and as a Melbourne supporter, somewhat Clint Bizzell, however, he was more reliable up forward than I have been this season.

FG: Who else do you think will win the Gun of the Year, and the overall Rising Star? Reckon you’re a shot?
Zoops: Of course I'd like to think I could win it and would love to win it, however, there's a lot of fish in the sea. If I had to single one out though, it'd be Aristotle Pickett. If you know your history, you know Aristotle as the great philosopher, however, he's also is pretty handy with the football too. To quote FootyGuy13 "Well here's a familiar face. There is just no competition in the midfield section of rookies for Aristotle, and I will keep mentioning that until a time in which it stops being true." If he's mentioned week in, week out, he's obviously doing something right. Him and I had a small gif banter session during the pre match thread before we played the Roys so a small personal anecdote is always nice. But hey, I would still like to win it, do one for the defenders!

And with that, I returned to the edge of the rink so that I was no longer on the cusp of another fall and left them to carry on their 1v1 hockey match. It'll be interesting to see how many more will jump out from the shadows to claim a nomination, or how many in the spotlight will finally come out on top, but I guess there's only 1 way to find out.

 

[FootyGuy13]

ROUND 10 CANDIDATES

Midfielder of the Week - Jabba73 (BAG) - ADT 81.55
Breaking Aristotle Pickett's 5-week run of being the midfield's candidate was going to take some doing. For Jabba though, it was all a matter of being eligible every second game and making that game have big numbers. They didn't but, luckily for Jabba, neither did AP. Not to mention that Jabba had to go up against a Season 30 rookie for an opponent, a tough ask in itself. So how did Jabba do? 11 hitouts, 24 disposals and 4 tackles in a big comeback win for the Bombers. Can Jabba be the one to finally get the midfield their first nomination this season? Well, it depends on the many Half-Forwards we had put their name up for candidacy.

Forward of the Week - Zevon (ROY) - ADT 119.78
When you have so many of your teammates vying for a nomination, it can be easy to be lost in the crowd when it comes to the sim having to choose who does well and who doesn't. Zevon doesn't have this problem as they've done something extraordinary and scored the same ADT in back-to-back weeks. And this time Zevon doesn't have a rival with irregular high scores to snatch a nomination from their grasp. 17 disposals this week though, 4 marks, 3 tackles and 2 goals in a game that proved to be an unsolved headache for the opposition. Will it be a case of same score, right time for Zevon? We still have another option.

WildCard of the Week - DockerDen5215 (CIW) - ADT 86.19
Another Half-Forward got candidacy this week and it's the Torch favourite (bias may be present) DockerDen. Last time I talked about DockerDen, they had trouble with where the goal-posts were. But let's also point out that they're starting to get a regular spot with the candidacy, and for good reason. No behinds this week but just the 1 goal, plus 15 disposals and 5 marks. DockerDen has been a great contributer on the field for Coney Island, mirroring their off-field work. The latter is daylight ahead of the former and one day, DockerDen will get another game like they did in Round 1. Or maybe they'll have to wait until they win by default.

Vacant Spot
Speaking of, only 3 rookies scored the required 75 ADT and posted before the game. Meaning there's 1 less person to um and ah over in the voting. It would've been funny if Cuzz09 got inquisitive about the Qooty game before the game had started, not to mention wherever bl4ke Here2tellyouwhy Judd_Magic are, but we can't just force or goad people into caring about an award no one outside the rookies care about, or at least I won't let myself to. I just wanted to point out, should those 4 read this, that they missed a chance here. Anyway, STATS!


Will Zevon bring another Gun nomination back to the Roys? Will DockerDen show his bite is just as good as his bark. Will Jabba do what Aristotle has been unable to do? Find out here in whoever many days it is til Saturday.

WHO DO YOU THINK IS GOING TO BE THIS WEEK'S "GUN"?​

 

[FootyGuy13]

The Big 1 0. 10 is the most popular way to round things off. You always hear or read about Top 10 things about blank and that number 7 will shock you and, when it comes to awards, finishing in the Top 10 is always the benchmark. For the 10th round of the season, only 3 people managed to get candidacy but that doesn't mean that they were any less deserving of a nomination. Jabba73 has been getting weirdly consistent lately by scoring 80-90 ADT every second week, giving him a fortnightly reminder that he still has something to fight for in his rookie season. DockerDen5215 was on the bench for over a quarter of his game which, when weighted to be the full 100, technically did more with the time he had than what Zevon did. But you don't win stuff with what you could've done, you win with what did do. As such, the Round 10 Gun nomination is…


There's been plenty of Half-Forwards this season and Zevon has been one of the picks of the bench. It doesn't matter what the rest of the team is doing, Zevon has been giving it his all and his all has been pretty great. It's even better when the game results goes his way as well so let's see how well he went the result decided not to.

First of all, you don't get on top of him that easily

1 : 14.02 {lW} - Wosh looking for a lead.
1 : 14.06 {rHFF} - A spearing pass towards Zevon.
1 : 14.1 {rHFF} - But in the way is Firestarter.
1 : 14.15 {lHBF} - Firestarter does some crumbing and is away.
1 : 14.18 {lHBF} - He has time to take a bounce.
1 : 14.22 {lHBF} - Zevon applies the tackle on Firestarter.
1 : 14.26 {rHFF} - Zevon is now off and running.

Not that he needs an excuse to be rough

1 : 16.37 {lHBF} - Gets a handpass away to Firestarter.
1 : 16.43 {lHBF} - Firestarter isn't just seeing stars after that clash with Zevon. He could map the Milky Way.
1 : 16.47 {rHFF} - Not enough pressure on Zevon.
1 : 16.51 {rHFF} - Zevon takes a bounce and nearly fumbles it.

Even the sim was taking notice of him

1 : 19.38 {rHFF} - Taking the mark is Zevon who's form looks good today.

A one-man fighting machine

2 : 5.19 {rHFF} - Zevon trying to offer a lead.
2 : 5.23 {rHFF} - Top mark - not paid.
2 : 5.26 {rHFF} - Zevon takes them on.

Was a part of this lovely play had to ended in a goal.

2 : 18.13 {rHBF} - He elects to use Power Raid and kicks in that direction.
2 : 18.17 {rHBF} - Dingster did enough to prevent a mark being taken.
2 : 18.22 {rHFF} - Zevon tucks the ball under his arm and scoots away.
2 : 18.25 {rHFF} - Zevon dummy's the handpass and then takes a bounce.
2 : 18.3 {rFP} - Handpass to space. Supersuns runs onto it.
2 : 18.34 {rFP} - Supersuns about twenty-five out.
2 : 18.38 {rFP} - Supersuns should hang his head in shame - a bad miss.
Roys FFC : 5.1.31
Sin City Swamprats : 7.5.47

Several behinds later and Zevon is still going at it.

3 : .51 {FB} - Far Kern has possession.
3 : .55 {FB} - Almost a throw to ant555.
3 : .59 {lHBF} - He gets boot to ball immediately.
3 : 1.03 {lHBF} - That's poor kicking and the mark is swallowed up by Zevon.
3 : 1.07 {rHFF} - Zevon wants to get on with proceedings.
3 : 1.12 {rHFF} - Boot to ball from Zevon under pressure.
3 : 1.15 {rHFF} - And Zevon scores a behind.
Roys FFC : 5.4.34
Sin City Swamprats : 8.5.53
3 : 1.23 {FB} - Nunez looking for a lead.
3 : 1.28 {lHBF} - The kick seeks out Firestarter.
3 : 1.32 {lHBF} - But chipping in front is Zevon.
3 : 1.36 {rHFF} - Zevon to send the ball forward.
3 : 1.4 {rHFF} - Zevon nearly got done for running too far but he remembers to bounce at last.
3 : 1.45 {rHFF} - No-look handpass to Supersuns.
3 : 1.48 {rHFF} - Quick hands to Zevon under pressure.
3 : 1.52 {rHFF} - Zevon takes a bounce and nearly fumbles it.

Finally! A goal!

3 : 19.42 {C} - Easy tapout for JackNah_8.
3 : 19.5 {rW} - FishingRick04 looking for a lead.
3 : 19.54 {rW} - FishingRick04 is swamped. Not much prior opportunity but its holding the ball.
3 : 19.58 {lW} - windyhill looks downfield.
3 : 20.02 {rHFF} - A short kick to Zevon.
3 : 20.07 {rHFF} - Taking the mark is Zevon who's form looks good today.
3 : 20.11 {rHFF} - Zevon looking for a lead.
3 : 20.15 {rHFF} - Zevon has a bounce.
3 : 20.19 {rFP} - He takes another.
3 : 20.23 {rFP} - Zevon steadies himself and has a shot ....
3 : 20.27 {rFP} - Misses - no wait! Its a goal!.
Roys FFC : 7.4.46
Sin City Swamprats : 11.15.81

Okay, now you're just toying with them

3 : 23.12 {lW} - He gets a handpass to windyhill.
3 : 23.16 {lW} - Handballs over the top to Aristotle Pickett.
3 : 23.21 {rHFF} - Searching pass in the direction of Zevon.
3 : 23.25 {rHFF} - Too long for Zevon and sataris marks.
3 : 23.28 {lHBF} - sataris threads his way through traffic.
3 : 23.32 {lHBF} - Zevon rides sataris into the ground.
3 : 23.37 {rHFF} - Zevon with a little space.
3 : 23.41 {rHFF} - Zevon takes a bounce and nearly fumbles it.
3 : 23.45 {lFP} - Gets onto his preferred foot and boots it long.

An absolute tackling machine

3 : 24.18 {lHBF} - sataris uses his body to perfection and reels in the mark.
3 : 24.22 {lHBF} - The ball is now with sataris.
3 : 24.27 {lHBF} - Zevon sews sataris up in a fantastic tackle.
3 : 24.3 {rHFF} - The ball is now with Zevon.
3 : 24.34 {rHFF} - Zevon goes for a long goal.
3 : 24.38 {rHFF} - Oh no. That might have brushed a teammate on the way through. It has. What a pity.
Roys FFC : 8.5.53
Sin City Swamprats : 11.15.81

Doesn't let his mistakes hold him back

4 : 11.11 {CHB} - Firestarter has time to take a bounce.
4 : 11.15 {CHB} - Draws a man and then with hands to philreich.
4 : 11.19 {lHBF} - He beckons for a lead.
4 : 11.23 {lHBF} - Zevon drops an absolute sitter.
4 : 11.27 {rHFF} - So Zevon ... with a moment to digest his options.
4 : 11.31 {rHFF} - Zevon attacks the goalface.
4 : 11.36 {rHFF} - All clear from the umpire. Its a goal.
Roys FFC : 9.7.61
Sin City Swamprats : 12.16.88

And with the last play of the game

4 : 24.06 {lHBF} - The ball is now with sataris.
4 : 24.1 {lHBF} - Zevon sews sataris up in a fantastic tackle.
4 : 24.14 {rHFF} - With the ball is Zevon.
4 : 24.18 {lHFF} - He handpasses to Dingster.
4 : 24.22 {rHFF} - Sees Zevon out of the corner of his eye.
4 : 24.27 {rHFF} - Zevon spills the mark.
4 : 24.3 {rHFF} - Zevon with some space now.

If you remember earlier in this thread and in the season, TedDougChris held a concert in celebration of Freo_4eva getting his nomination. Just reminding you of that so that it makes sense that TDC once again held a concert to celebrate the Werewolf of London.

This time did have something different to that time long gone. This time the interview was to be recorded beforehand to be shown between sets instead of going through the trouble of getting me to the concert. Let's see what happens when I get to interview a rocker for a rock concert.

FG: Hey TDC, what a game against the Swampies in Round 10, and what a game from Zevon to be the second Gun nom for the Roys. How does it feel?
TDC: Did we win against the Swamprats ?? I don't remember that.... In fact, I don't remember beating them since the S25 Grand Final. Although, to be fair, I don't remember yesterday either.....

FG: Congrats on getting Zevon over to the Roys. Where did you find him, and how is he settling in?
TDC: Zevon has been a quiet achiever in the Roys side, discretely slipping in and quickly becoming part of the furniture and really embracing the Roys culture and system. We're very glad he joined up during the off-seasons Tour of Qooty. He was found on the AFL Fantasy board, quietly extolling the virtues of the Swans rookies. Oh how we laughed at him - "Horse will never play them 2 weeks in a row !!!". Huge amounts of egg on face right now....

FG: He's been toiling away for you in the forward line, what are your on-field aspirations for Zevon?
TDC: All players at the Roys aspire to end up on the bench. it's very comfy, has lots of spots for drinks, snacks and a megophone to abuse Supersuns as he runs around in the midfield. If Zevon works hard and reduces his excess goals tally (he currently owes the club 12,245 goals and counting) - he might one day get that bench spot...

FG: Last time we talked was for the nomination of Freo_4eva. How's he tracking and will there be more rookies to add?
TDC: We recruited 5 rookies in the off season - the three most prolific have been Freo_4eva , Zevon and Aristotle Pickett - so we are all hoping that AP can get a nomination for one of the thousands of rookie awards at some stage of the year. That'd be a good year for all of them.

FG: Now that we're halfway into the season and we've seen what rookies every other team has, are there any other rookies that you wish you had gotten your hands on that go alright at qooty?
TDC: Are there any other good rookies this year ???


At this point the footage gets a bit staticky because *insert Roys joke about technology*

FG: Hey Zevon! Congratulations on the nomination after all those weeks of being a candidate. You must be pleased with how you went in the game. What path did you take to get to the SFA, and where did you first hear about it?
Zevon: TedDougChris recruited me to the SFA after the SFA’s tour of the AFL Fantasy board

FG: What are your first impressions of the place? Is TDC, Supersuns, Wosh and the rest of the Roys looking after you?
Zevon: Absolutely! TDC and Wosh are looking after me and Supersuns is keeping me honest! First impressions are that the SFA is a fun place indeed and the Roys are a great club.

FG: How do you prepare for a qooty match? Did you think you were going to be a chance of getting the nomination this week?
Zevon: I prepare the same way every single game. Wake up late, couple of cokes sorry chudshakes and a trip to the ground in the famous bucket. I had no designs on winning the nomination this week but it’s a welcome surprise.

FG: What would you like to achieve on the field during your SFA career?
Zevon: One game at a time... no screw that. I just want to have that big 10 goal game that Supersuns has been imploring me to have. I will be able to retire a happy man if that eventuates.

FG: Have there been any other teams that have stood out for you on the field, or players that you model your qooty on?
Zevon: Being the forward line player that I am, it would have to be our own fitzroybowiedog. I get the best seat in the house watching him kick big bags of goals every week.

FG: Who else do you think will win the Gun of the Year, and the overall Rising Star? Reckon you’re a shot?
Zevon: I’m no chance! Our own Freo_4eva is a shoo-in!

It's getting close to the back-straight now, there's still plenty of talent vying for the remaining spots and numerous chances to get a nomination. What will I run out of first though? Nominations or Nominees?

 

[FootyGuy13]

ROUND 11 CANDIDATES

Defender of the Week - Ash24 (BAG) - ADT 80.46
Another rookie debut, another new candidate. Once again, a rookie that wasn't in the league a week ago has managed to get themselves up for a nomination after just 1 game. However it was Ash's first game and the sim decided to sub them off near the end of the 3rd quarter saying that they "struggled to make an impact". The sim also said the same thing about their opponent and if you make a forward struggle for impact in a win against you, you must be doing something right. For themselves, Ash recorded 5 kicks, 3 handballs and 2 marks, so it was more of a tagging role it would seem for the debutant. With limited supply of people getting candidacy left, as long as they keep posting, they should get a nomination before the last round.

Midfielder of the Week - Jabba73 (BAG) - ADT 122.82
Now onto the Bomber that isn't new to these parts, Jabba defied his ADT scoring pattern to make it back-to-back candidacy spots for the first time this season. Now usually a good ruckman is a person who wins majority of the tap-outs during a game. While Jabba did do that, they went way beyond that to have a big impact for the losing side. 15 hitouts, 35 disposals (15 kicks), 1 tackle, 3 Frees (1 Against) and 3 goals nothing. I'm focused on the 35 disposals and 3 goals because that's a contribution. DockerDen might be kicking himself for saying last week that Jabba would get the nom this week because it very well might happen.

Forward of the Week - DockerDen5215 (CIW) - ADT 102.25
But not without a fight from the young Warrior. Yet another rookie from a losing side will get the nomination this week so let's look at the one that was supposed to be kicking goals. DockerDen didn't have the ball magnet for their game but certainly ended up with just as big of an impact as the midfielder. 15 disposals, 5 marks, 1 tackle, 2 Frees Against and 3 goals nothing, DockerDen seems to have gotten over their goalkicking yips having kicked 5.1 over their last 3 games. With DockerDen's Prediction thread, we'll see how well they goes in front of goals with the run home they reckon they have. I'm sure it'll be a fascinating watch.

Vacant Spot
Alright, so tagging the inactive ones in this thread didn't change anything and I'm still without a 4 person to pump up during the week. So stuff them, I have my own agenda to worry about. Cleverbot, who is the mastermind behind your account? I asked the S30 rookies and they said it was Gremio. I asked Gremio and he said it's the S30 rookies. I need the services of being able to use the for shenanigans and funny hahas. Show yourself, man behind the curtain, and allow me to wield such awesome power. Oh, and here's some stats.


Can Ash go from outsider to Rookie Nom in just 1 game? Will Jabba be recognised for being the best player in their losing side? Can DockerDen convince the voters to show some love their way? Will anyone notice how the colours on the stats picture looks like the Flag of Lithuania?

WHO DO YOU THINK IS GOING TO BE THIS WEEK'S "GUN"?​

 

[FootyGuy13]

We're in final stretch now, there's not that many people left to take a nomination. And of those left, 3 have been trying to get a nomination the entire season while the other 2 have managed to join up at the right time. This week, the sim picked out the 2 unlucky players from last week as well as one of the newbies. Ash24 managed to do enough on debut to get a look in, though was restricted by the amount of time that they had on the field. DockerDen5215 had their (equal) 3rd highest score for the season, finally getting another 100+ ADT game in 7 weeks. Once again though, someone else had a better game than him, and that game was too good not to be recognised. Meaning the Round 11 Gun nomination is…


Jabba73 played like a modern ruckman. Aside from winning the Hit-Out count against the Furies captain, Jabba also got amongst the midfielders and rack up 35 disposals and 3 goals. Only the best players are able to score goals while also setting them up. Let's look at the highlights to see how he did it.

The Bombers making a big handballs chain.

1 : 14.37 {FB} - Now KohPhi has the ball. What can he do with it?.
1 : 14.41 {FB} - Draws a man and then with hands to RobR.
1 : 14.45 {rBP} - A slick handpass goes to Ash24.
1 : 14.49 {rBP} - He handpasses to Pugsley.
1 : 14.53 {rBP} - Draws a man and then with hands to Jabba73.
1 : 14.58 {FB} - An underground handpass to KohPhi.

And another handball chain that lead to a goal.

1 : 20.23 {lHBF} - kickthething is in the way and will mark.
1 : 20.27 {rHFF} - The ball is now with kickthething.
1 : 20.31 {rHFF} - No-look handpass to RobR.
1 : 20.36 {rHFF} - Hands it off to Jabba73.
1 : 20.4 {rHFF} - Pugsley runs past and takes the handpass.
1 : 20.44 {CHF} - Long handpass to the running Bovo.
1 : 20.48 {FF} - A measured kick in the direction of miggs.
1 : 20.54 {FF} - Sterge upset the marking attempt by miggs.
1 : 20.58 {FF} - miggs fighting to get a clear kick.
1 : 21.02 {FF} - miggs from point blank range.
1 : 21.06 {FF} - miggs gives some to the crowd after that goal.
Baghdad Bombers : 1.2.8
Fighting Furies FFC : 1.0.6

Jabba then decides to get on the goals early.

2 : .51 {rHFF} - kickthething with some space now.
2 : .55 {lFP} - Long handpass to the running Judd_Magic.
2 : .59 {lFP} - Hands it off to Jabba73.
2 : 1.03 {lFP} - Jabba73's eyes light up - he fires at goal.
2 : 1.07 {lFP} - Perfect goal kicking technique. That's number 1 for Jabba73.
Baghdad Bombers : 2.2.14
Fighting Furies FFC : 1.4.10

Some more handballing action.

2 : 1.19 {C} - Running with the ball is Kilroy.
2 : 1.23 {rW} - Hands it off to Antonio BlueVein.
2 : 1.28 {rW} - Handpasses to RobR.
2 : 1.32 {rW} - Huge handpass to Jabba73. As good as a kick.
2 : 1.36 {lW} - Handpasses to Tony Lynn 15.
2 : 1.4 {rHBF} - A slick handpass goes to TheCoach16.

Jabba makes sure the ball doesn't go over his head that easily.

2 : 12.13 {FB} - Judd_Magic with the ball now.
2 : 12.17 {FB} - A quick handpass to Jabba73.
2 : 12.21 {lBP} - Handpass over the shoulder to Judd_Magic.
2 : 12.25 {lBP} - That's a trip surely.
2 : 12.3 {rFP} - Nobody's checking tigland.
2 : 12.36 {rFP} - Mister M runs past and takes the handpass.
2 : 12.4 {rFP} - This should be a goal to Mister M.
2 : 12.43 {rFP} - Jabba73 chooses the safe option in rushing it through.
Baghdad Bombers : 2.4.16
Fighting Furies FFC : 1.8.14

Jabba definitely helps with keeping the opposition off the ball.

2 : 18.13 {C} - Jabba73 taps it down.
2 : 18.22 {lW} - Taking the ball is Pugsley.
2 : 18.25 {rW} - Handpass to space. CALL ME SNAKE runs onto it.
2 : 18.3 {CHF} - That's a real up and under.
2 : 18.34 {CHF} - I can't believe Bovo held on to that. What a mark.
2 : 18.38 {CHF} - Bovo signals for his teammates to present.
2 : 18.42 {CHF} - A slick handpass goes to Jabba73.
2 : 18.48 {rHFF} - An underground handpass to kickthething.

Even when those handballs become a game of chaosball.

2 : 24.3 {CHF} - Bovo looking for a lead.
2 : 24.34 {CHF} - A wild handball - but luckily Jabba73 was well placed to clean up.
2 : 24.38 {lFP} - A spearing pass towards VSTone.

Here he is just passing between himself and some friends.

3 : 2.32 {C} - Big tap from Jabba73.
3 : 2.4 {rW} - RobR weaves through the congestion.
3 : 2.44 {rW} - Jabba73 receives his handpass.
3 : 2.48 {lW} - Tony Lynn 15 runs past and takes the handpass.
3 : 2.52 {lW} - Long handpass to the running RobR.
3 : 2.57 {lW} - Handballs over the top to Jabba73.
3 : 3.01 {lW} - A lookaway handpass to Tony Lynn 15.

Scores another goal and keeps on going afterwards.

3 : 16 {rFP} - iDon to send the ball forward.
3 : 16.04 {rFP} - Quick hands to Jabba73.
3 : 16.08 {rFP} - Jabba73 has a bounce.
3 : 16.12 {rFP} - Jabba73 about twenty-five out.
3 : 16.16 {rFP} - This will be - and is - a goal to Jabba73.
Baghdad Bombers : 4.5.29
Fighting Furies FFC : 8.11.59
3 : 16.2 {C} - Textbook ruckwork from Jabba73.
3 : 16.28 {lW} - Jabba73 hits the ground running.

Jabba was even tapping to himself.

4 : 25 {C} - Big tap from Jabba73.
4 : .1 {C} - Jabba73 weaves through the congestion.
4 : .13 {C} - Passes to RobR by hand.

Capitalises on the defenses mistakes.

4 : 2.35 {FB} - crazywildhorse looks downfield.
4 : 2.4 {FB} - Ooof. iDon blindsides crazywildhorse and I heard that from here.
4 : 2.44 {lFP} - Quality gather by VSTone.
4 : 2.48 {lFP} - Handpass to space. Jabba73 runs onto it.
4 : 2.52 {lFP} - Jabba73 walks into goal.
4 : 2.57 {lFP} - Was it touched? Goal umpire says no!.
Baghdad Bombers : 6.7.43
Fighting Furies FFC : 8.11.59

Must have been a handballing day for the Bombers.

4 : 3.46 {CHB} - The Jesus sews Carson Dial up in a fantastic tackle.
4 : 3.5 {CHF} - The Jesus has possession.
4 : 3.54 {CHF} - He involves Jabba73 in the play.
4 : 3.58 {CHF} - He gets a handpass to The Jesus.
4 : 4.03 {CHF} - A lookaway handpass to RobR.
4 : 4.07 {CHF} - Huge handpass to Pugsley. As good as a kick.

This time, Jabba is the one that causes an opposition slip-up.

4 : 6.35 {FB} - Edmund hunt signals for his teammates to present.
4 : 6.39 {FB} - Handpass over the shoulder to Rioli8217.
4 : 6.43 {FB} - No-look handpass to Sterge.
4 : 6.47 {FB} - Gives the ball to Mister M.
4 : 6.51 {FB} - Jabba73 drags Mister M down beautifully.
4 : 6.55 {FF} - miggs has it. What can he do with it?.
4 : 7 {FF} - This will be a goal to miggs.
4 : 7.04 {FF} - It's through.
Baghdad Bombers : 8.8.56
Fighting Furies FFC : 8.11.59

Another tap to himself for the road.

4 : 22.16 {C} - Jabba73 wins the tap decisively.
4 : 22.25 {lW} - Jabba73 has a paddock.
4 : 22.29 {CHF} - A kick in the general direction of The Jesus.

Onto the interview, do you know how much sand is in the Middle East? I mean, it is all over the place there but you don't realise just how much sand there is until you actually go there. Anyway, that's what I was thinking before I realised that Antonio BlueVein and Jabba73 decided that camels were a good idea for this. This was going to be a fun interview even without the animals.


FG: Hey ABV, the Bombers somehow managed to lose to the tanking Furies in Round 11...
ABV: We lost the qooty match did we? I suppose we had to let them win something, they’re really struggling on the field, and off it.
FG: ...but Jabba had a big game to be one of your best this week...
ABV: Jabba73 is a bonafide star and he made light work of the shrivelled husk Tigerturbulance
FG: ...how does it feel?
ABV: You’re asking me how it feels that we lost a qooty match yet my star recruit dominated?

Satisfying. It feels satisfying.

FG: Congrats on getting Jabba over to the Bombers. Where did you find him, and how is he settling in?
ABV: Jabba is apart of an elite clandestine group of random internetters that call themselves, wait, I can’t tell you, if I tell you, I’d have to find you.

FG: He seems to having a fun time in the ruck ever since you put him there, what are your on-field aspirations for Jabba?
ABV: Stop asking so many questions, what are you, a copper?

AFP?

FBI?

CIA?

RACV?

RSPCA?

FG: Um... I know there's other rookies at the Abdu Prison this year, how have they been going themselves in your view?
ABV: We’ve had one account deletion, one who thinks we’re all a bunch of nerds and would rather insert hot needles directly into his right retina, one who vomits at the thought of playing for a team with red and black colours, and one who is still not sure what he signed up for.

We’re in a good spot.

FG: Now that we're over halfway into the season and we've seen what rookies every other team has, are there any other rookies that you wish you had gotten your hands on that go alright at qooty?
ABV: Catsnlakers will be the runner-up to Jabba73 in this seasons EKA, I really like the cut of his jib.

And if GREENESHOOTS doesn’t finish third I’ll storm the committee and set a series of traps, each more elaborate and cunning than the last, until they’re all captured and incarcerated in Abdu prison with no access to wifi.

Thank goodness these camels were tied to each other otherwise I'd be crushed under one by now. Talking about crushing, let's see what Jabba says after crushing his opponent.

FG: Hey Jabba! Congratulations on the nomination despite that humiliating loss. You must be pleased with how you went in the game though. What path did you take to get to the SFA, and where did you first hear about it?
Jabba: Thanks FootyGuy13. Not about the individual awards in a losing team, here for the team glory that a premiership brings, although it does give me a small amount of pleasure to have proven myself against some of the legends of the SFA while playing in the ruck. The only things hiding in the pockets at this club are a couple of grenades for the after party. Other teams should give their rookies a chance to test themselves against the best.

Have received plenty of offers to join teams in the SFA from fellow Blues supporters over the years and took part in the SFA tour match last season mostly out of curiosity. The lame dad jokes from philreich almost put me off, however I couldn't go past the offer of unlimited camels, goats and ladies in the Harem. The thought of playing games in a prison alongside the legendary RobR and my old sparring partner TheCoach16 was too good to pass up.

FG: What are your first impressions of the place? Is ABV, Pugs and the rest of the Bombers looking after you?
Jabba: The SFA has been a revelation, did not know you could melt like a Blues supporter in an autopsy thread and be considered as not trying hard enough. The epic-ness of the melts in here is seriously next level.

Antonio BlueVein is the kind of guy you would wear a bomb vest into battle for. Leads from the front week after week. The other guys in the squad have encouraged me to be myself, then pissed themselves laughing at the result. What a team! May I also give a shout out to a couple of fallen comrades in Santoz and MITS who have joined BLUEALLTHRU on the martyr list. They have taken the fall for my mistakes.

FG: How do you prepare for a qooty match? Did you think you were going to be a chance of getting the nomination this week?
Jabba: Start the game preparations with the Friday Night Jukebox hosted by Kilroy, once the theme is nominated it can lead you down the rabbit hole into a world of songs you didn't know existed. The rest of my preparation pretty much consists of trying to remember when the game starts.

To be fair, had to be a chance of being nominated at some stage, there isn't too many rookies left that post other than DockerDen5215 ... who will probably win by default next week.

FG: What would you like to achieve on the field during your SFA career?
Jabba: An uninjured run would be a welcome break from my sporting attempts in RL. Anything else is a bonus.

FG: Have there been any other teams that have stood out for you on the field, or players that you model your qooty on?
Jabba: Been some very good teams to play against this season, most are a lot of fun. No need to look much further than my team mates for inspiration given I have witnessed two of the best games ever played when BLUEALLTHRU kicked a lazy 10 goals without leaving the square and Pugsley raked in 143 DT points.

FG: Who else do you think will win the Gun of the Year, and the overall Rising Star? Reckon you’re a shot?
Jabba: Reckon that rookie guy that plays for the Admin team is struggling a bit, hope he comes good and defies the doubters. Not sure who decided putting someone called NaturalDisaster in charge of something was a good idea, but here we are. Vote for the underdog!

Anyone could win this award, purely for doing nothing other than paying the Sim Gods a bucket load of money. Will happily send every one of them a letterbomb as punishment if my name gets drawn out of the hat. Give the thing to Catsnlakers, he has done more promotion of his own chances than anyone else. Reward the effort.

And with that, the interview was over. After the inevitable fall of the camel, I could finally get out the place and leave with it the chance of getting blown up by someone. I should also name drop this week's Interview sponsor.


See you guys next week to see if the Sim still likes rookies!