What trades did you make this week?
How are you scoring?
Got a Vent or Brag? A Rant or Rave?

Hit up the comments!

DEFENDERS

The top three options this week down back in terms of value, uniqueness and point-scoring ability are:

1. Lindsay Gilbee ($471,600, BE 111, AV 101) is the value pick. Also plays a reasonable draw in the finals with Adelaide (whom he averages about 125 against), Geelong, Sydney and Essendon. Definite scoring potential and if you are a little short in the bank department then well worth the dosh.
2. Brian Lake ($594,400, BE 141, AV 110) is a little on the dear side but his scoring ability is most definitely worthwhile. Has pulled out some absolute monster scores this year and is in fine form. Like Gilbee, he also has a pretty good draw for the finals.
3. James Kelly ($531,700, BE 95, AV 100) has found form in recent weeks and is tearing it up as we come into the finals. Has become a very solid backline premium for a Geelong team that hasn’t sewn up a home final yet and will be looking to play itself into some form in the last few weeks of the season proper.

MIDFIELDERS

1. Dane Swan ($671,700, BE 87, AV 127) – the price tag is massive but so are his scores of recent weeks. Coming off a 190 last week, is in amazing form playing at his very happy hunting ground of the MCG for the next 5 weeks. Expect 130s each week from this ultra-premium.
2. Jobe Watson ($521,600, BE 123, AV 109) is a bit more on the value side and has been quite consistent all season. Not too popular either which can be a massive advantage in the finals.
3. Joel Selwood ($631,100, BE 77, AV 119) – essentially the same situation as Swan: in amazing form and just a pure gun. What more could you want other than him to be a bit cheaper?

FORWARDS

1. Nick Riewoldt ($437,700, BE 105, AV 97) looks to be back from his hamstring injury with a 106 on the weekend. Probably worth a shot this week or the next as he is dirt cheap and a proven superstar. Only in 7% of people’s teams at the moment and with limited trades left will play a big part in everyone’s finals campaigns. Don’t be one of the people who miss out.
2. Matthew Pavlich ($434,100, BE 110, AV 102) is both well and incredibly consistent – exactly what you need to run out the season. Will pull through with reliable tons for the next 5 weeks.
3. Buddy Franklin ($536,100, BE 108, AV 106) has surprised me a lot this year by actually playing with some consistency (when he isn’t suspended that is), mainly due to Clarkson throwing him up the ground more during dry periods of the game. His ability to churn out a huge score well and truly counters the risk of suspension.

Hope y’all find that to your liking and that you have most of these players in your team already – they should see you obliterate your rivals in the finals. Good luck. Feel free to post how many trades you have left, the trades you’re performing this week or simply rant away… the power of choice is yours.

ESSENDON v ST KILDA

Essendon
B: Heath Hocking, Dustin Fletcher, Courtenay Dempsey
HB: Mark McVeigh, Michael Hurley, Kyle Reimers
C: David Zaharakis, Jobe Watson, Travis Colyer
HF: Kyle Hardingham, Scott Gumbleton, Brent Stanton
F: Angus Monfries, Jay Neagle, Sam Lonergan
Foll: Patrick Ryder, Bachar Houli, Ben Howlett
I/C: Cale Hooker, Alwyn Davey, David Hille, Brent Prismall
Emg: Leroy Jetta, David Myers, Nathan Lovett-Murray

In: Hille, Lonergan
Out: Jason Winderlich (hand), Leroy Jetta

St Kilda
B: Zac Dawson, Jason Blake, Sam Gilbert
HB: Jason Gram, Sam Fisher, James Gwilt
C: Brendon Goddard, Nick Dal Santo, Farren Ray
HF: Clinton Jones, Justin Koschitzke, Leigh Montagna
F: Tom Lynch, Nick Riewoldt, Stephen Milne
Foll: Michael Gardiner, Lenny Hayes, Adam Schneider
I/C: Jack Steven, Ben McEvoy, Brett Peake, Sean Dempster
Emg: Adam Pattison, Jarryn Geary, Andrew McQualter

In: Lynch
Out: Andrew McQualter

New: Tom Lynch (Sandringham Dragons)

COLLINGWOOD v CARLTON

Collingwood
B: Nick Maxwell, Simon Prestigiacomo, Ben Reid
HB: Harry O’Brien, Tyson Goldsack, Alan Toovey
C: Sharrod Wellingham, Dane Swan, Jarryd Blair
HF: Luke Ball, Travis Cloke, Leon Davis
F: Dayne Beams, Leigh Brown, Steele Sidebottom
Foll: Darren Jolly, Scott Pendlebury, Dale Thomas
I/C: Alan Didak, Ben Johnson, Brent Macaffer, Chris Dawes
Emg: Tarkyn Lockyer, Josh Fraser, Simon Buckley

In: Cloke
Out: Tarkyn Lockyer

Carlton
B: Aaron Joseph, Michael Jamison, Paul Bower
HB: Andrew Carrazzo, Jarrad Waite, Jordan Russell
C: Heath Scotland, Chris Judd, Shaun Grigg
HF: Kade Simpson, Brad Fisher, Andrew Walker
F: Eddie Betts, Lachie Henderson, Shaun Hampson
Foll: Robert Warnock, Bryce Gibbs, Marc Murphy
I/C: Dennis Armfield, Jeff Garlett, Chris Johnson, Chris Yarran
Emg: Marcus Davies, David Ellard, Mitch Robinson

In: Fisher
Out: David Ellard

PORT ADELAIDE v HAWTHORN

Port Adelaide
B: Paul Stewart, Alipate Carlile, Nick Salter
HB: Nathan Krakouer, Troy Chaplin, Matt Thomas
C: Kane Cornes, Domenic Cassisi, Travis Boak
HF: Cameron Hitchcock, Jay Schulz, David Rodan
F: Justin Westhoff, Daniel Stewart, Brett Ebert
Foll: Dean Brogan, Danyle Pearce, Robbie Gray
I/C: Mitchell Banner, Matthew Broadbent, Andrew Moore, Jack Trengove
Emg: Jasper Pittard, Danny Meyer, Scott Harding

In: Krakouer, Trengove
Out: Tom Logan (concussion), Josh Carr (retired)

Hawthorn
B: Brent Guerra, Stephen Gilham, Thomas Murphy
HB: Grant Birchall, Josh Gibson, Ben Stratton
C: Jordan Lewis, Sam Mitchell, Clinton Young
HF: Chance Bateman, Lance Franklin, Shaun Burgoyne
F: Cyril Rioli, Jarryd Roughead, Michael Osborne
Foll: Brent Renouf, Luke Hodge, Brad Sewell
I/C: Xavier Ellis, Rick Ladson, Wayde Skipper, Brendan Whitecross
Emg: Shane Savage, Ryan Schoenmakers, Matt Suckling

In: Ladson
Out: Campbell Brown (suspension)

SYDNEY SWANS v GEELONG CATS

Sydney Swans
B: Paul Bevan, Ted Richards, Martin Mattner
HB: Nick Malceski, Heath Grundy, Tadhg Kennelly
C: Daniel Hannebery, Brett Kirk, Jarrad McVeigh
HF: Ryan O’Keefe, Jesse White, Josh Kennedy
F: Ben McGlynn, Adam Goodes, Jarred Moore
Foll: Shane Mumford, Jude Bolton, Kieren Jack
I/C: Lewis Jetta, Brett Meredith, Mike Pyke, Rhyce Shaw
Emg: Trent Dennis-Lane, Sam Reid, Patrick Veszpremi

No change

Geelong Cats
B: Darren Milburn, Matthew Scarlett, Josh Hunt
HB: Andrew Mackie, Harry Taylor, Corey Enright
C: James Kelly, Cameron Ling, Gary Ablett
HF: Shannon Byrnes, Cameron Mooney, Travis Varcoe
F: Paul Chapman, Tom Hawkins, Steve Johnson
Foll: Brad Ottens, Joel Selwood, Joel Corey
I/C: David Wojcinski, Mathew Stokes, Tom Lonergan, Trent West
Emg: Taylor Hunt, Simon Hogan, Daniel Menzel

In: Byrnes, West, Hawkins
Out: James Podsiadly (soreness), Jimmy Bartel (ankle), Mark Blake

BRISBANE LIONS v MELBOURNE

Brisbane Lions
B: Xavier Clarke, Daniel Merrett, Ashley McGrath
HB: Luke Power, Brent Staker, Joel Patfull
C: Jack Redden, Daniel Rich, Tom Rockliff
HF: James Polkinghorne, Jonathan Brown, Albert Proud
F: Jared Brennan, Brendan Fevola, Todd Banfield
Foll: Mitchell Clark, Simon Black, Michael Rischitelli
I/C: Pearce Hanley, Cheynee Stiller, Ryan Harwood, Matthew Leuenberger
Emg: James Hawksley, Aaron Cornelius, Justin Sherman

In: McGrath, Clarke, Stiller, Black
Out: Amon Buchanan (quad), Matt Maguire, James Hawksley, Aaron Cornelius

Melbourne
B: Colin Garland, Jared Rivers, Clint Bartram
HB: Cameron Bruce, James Frawley, Joel Macdonald
C: Rohan Bail, James McDonald, Brad Green
HF: Lynden Dunn, Jack Watts, Tom Scully
F: Jamie Bennell, Paul Johnson, Austin Wonaeamirri
Foll: Mark Jamar, Colin Sylvia, Aaron Davey
I/C: Jordie McKenzie, Cale Morton, Liam Jurrah, Nathan Jones
Emg: Addam Maric, Matthew Warnock, Jack Trengove

In: James McDonald
Out: Addam Maric

RICHMOND v ADELAIDE

Richmond
B: Chris Newman, Luke McGuane, Will Thursfield
HB: Brett Deledio, Kelvin Moore, Daniel Connors
C: Mitch Morton, Dustin Martin, Shane Edwards
HF: Ben Nason, Andrew Collins, Jake King
F: Matt White, Jack Riewoldt, David Astbury
Foll: Angus Graham, Shane Tuck, Daniel Jackson
I/C (from): Ben Cousins, Andrew Browne, Mitch Farmer, Jeromey Webberley, Alex Rance, Robbie Hicks, Troy Taylor

In: Moore, White, Jackson, Thursfield, Taylor, Hicks
Out: Dean Polo, Robin Nahas, Jayden Post

New: Robbie Hicks (Calder Cannons/Rookie list)

Adelaide
B: Michael Doughty, Ben Rutten, Scott Stevens
HB: Brent Reilly, Nathan Bock, Nathan van Berlo
C: Rory Sloane, Scott Thompson, David Mackay
HF: Ricky Henderson, Taylor Walker, Matthew Jaensch
F: Jason Porplyzia, Kurt Tippett, Richard Douglas
Foll: Ivan Maric, Bernie Vince, Patrick Dangerfield
I/C (from): Tony Armstrong, Phil Davis, Jonathon Griffin, Jack Gunston, Chris Schmidt, James Sellar, Brad Symes

In: Sellar, Schmidt, Davis, Gunston
Out: Graham Johncock (suspension)

WESTERN BULLDOGS v NORTH MELBOURNE

Western Bulldogs
B: Jarrod Harbrow, Brian Lake, Dale Morris
HB: Ryan Hargrave, Tom Williams, Lindsay Gilbee
C: Daniel Cross, Matthew Boyd, Liam Picken
HF: Robert Murphy, Liam Jones, Brad Johnson
F: Jarrad Grant, Barry Hall, Shaun Higgins
Foll: Ben Hudson, Ryan Griffen, Adam Cooney
I/C (from): Dylan Addison, Nathan Eagleton, Andrejs Everitt, Daniel Giansiracusa, Brodie Moles, Jordan Roughead, Easton Wood

In: Dylan Addison, Andrejs Everitt, Liam Jones, Nathan Eagleton
Out: Callan Ward (hip)

New: Liam Jones (Tasmania U18)

North Melbourne
B: Michael Firrito, Scott Thompson, Brady Rawlings
HB: Jamie MacMillan, Josh Smith, Scott McMahon
C: Leigh Adams, Brent Harvey, Sam Wright
HF: Matt Campbell, Aaron Edwards, Ben Speight
F: Ben Cunnington, Lachlan Hansen, Lindsay Thomas
Foll: Hamish McIntosh, Andrew Swallow, Levi Greenwood
I/C: Ed Lower, Todd Goldstein, Ryan Bastinac, Brayden Norris, Marcus White, Leigh Harding, Gavin Urquhart

In: McMahon, Thomas, White, Wright, Norris
Out: David Hale, Ben Warren (back)

New: Marcus White (Calder Cannons/Rookie list), Brayden Norris (Murray Bushrangers)

FREMANTLE v WEST COAST EAGLES

Fremantle
B: Chris Tarrant, Antoni Grover, Greg Broughton
HB: Justin Bollenhagen, Luke McPharlin, Roger Hayden
C: Garrick Ibbotson, David Mundy, Nathan Fyfe
HF: Jay van Berlo, Matthew Pavlich, Stephen Hill
F: Adam McPhee, Michael Johnson, Hayden Ballantyne
Foll: Aaron Sandilands, Nick Suban, Paul Duffield
I/C (from): Michael Walters, Dylan Roberton, Matthew de Boer, Paul Hasleby, Jesse Crichton, Anthony Morabito, Kepler Bradley

In: Bradley, Mundy, Walters, Bollenhagen, Tarrant
Out: Rhys Palmer (shoulder), Clancee Pearce (knee)

New: Justin Bollenhagen (South Adelaide)

West Coast Eagles
B: Will Schofield, Eric MacKenzie, Ashley Smith
HB: Beau Waters, Mitchell Brown, Shannon Hurn
C: Brad Ebert, Matt Priddis, Matt Rosa
HF: Andrew Embley, Josh Kennedy, Andrew Strijk
F: Mark LeCras, Quinten Lynch, Nic Naitanui
Foll: Dean Cox, Chris Masten, Scott Selwood
I/C (from): Brett Jones, Patrick McGinnity, Ben McKinley, Brad Sheppard, Lewis Stevenson, Tom Swift, Callum Wilson

In: McKinley, Jones, Wilson, Swift, McGinnity
Out: Adam Selwood (shoulder), Ashton Hams (suspension)

Post your selection rants and raves in the comments.

Essendon v St Kilda

Nick Dal Santo 112 | 102
Brendan Goddard 121 | 109
Leigh Montagna 106 | 100
Jobe Watson 116 | 113

Dal Santo has played the Bombers six times since ’07, hitting the SC ton against them on all but one occasion (100, 117, 122, 129, 133). Was in great form before his late withdrawal a couple of rounds ago, scoring above 97 in the 8 games prior, a thumping 6 of those bringing huge scores of 123+. Dal Santo scored 133 against the Bombers when they played in round 8 this year.

Goddard is in spectacular form, averaging a career-best 129. He has no score below 94 and 10 scores above 126! Goddard has not scored below 93 against the Bombers in his six games against them since ’06. He loves playing at Etihad, having averaged a massive 20ppg higher there than at the MCG over the last 6 years. Goddard scored 147 against the Bombers when they played in round 8 this year.

Montagna was in smashing form before falling victim to the Etihad surface last week – he had scored 128+ in five of his last seven games (128, 137, 143, 155, 159). His last four games against the Bombers all hit the SC ton. Montagna loves playing at the Dome, averaging ~7.5ppg higher there than at the ‘G. His last 3 games at Etihad, before the skating rink incident, brought scores of 159, 143 & 155. Montagna scored 115 against the Bombers when they played in round 8 this year.

Watson is in career-best form, averaging 109 so far this season. Watson averages an excellent 143 in his last three games against the Saints. Jobe scored 106 against the Saints when they played in round 8 this year.

Collingwood v Carlton

Chris Judd 113 | 112
Marc Murphy 107 | 123
Scott Pendlebury 119 | 105
Dane Swan 111 | 154

Judd‘s hit 96+ against the Pies in every game since ’05, including big scores of 184, 133 & 141. Judd’s in the best form he’s been in since ’06, averaging 121 so far this season. Judd scored 106 against the Pies when they played in round 6 this year.

Murphy has played the Pies seven times since ’07, hitting scores of 98+ on all but one occasion. Murphy’s been in great form of late, scoring 106+ in all but one game (94) in the last nine rounds, averaging 123 from the last three. Murphy scored 114 against the Pies when they played in round 6 this year.

The Blues are Pendlebury‘s career-favourite opposition. He’s played them six times in his career, hitting the SC ton on all but one occasion, including big scores of 131, 131 & 150. Pendlebury’s in career-best form, averaging 110 so far this season, and scoring 123+ in five of his last eight games. Pendlebury scored 115 against the Blues when they played in round 6 this year.

Swan is in career-best form, averaging 127 so far this season and a thumping 150 from the last six rounds. Swan has played the Blues nine times since ’06, hitting the SC ton on all but two occasions (85 & 90). Swan’s last three games at the ‘G read 173, 145 & 190! He scored 113 against the Blues when they played in round 6 this year.

Port Adelaide v Hawthorn

Kane Cornes 103 | 123
Luke Hodge 108 | 135

Cornes is in great form, averaging 123 in his last three games. Kornes scored 84 against the Hawks when they played in round 11 this year.

Hodge is in his best form in five years, averaging 126 so far this season and 135 from his last three. Hodge scored 136 against the Power when they played in round 11 this year.

Sydney v Geelong

Jimmy Bartel 109 | 100
Paul Chapman 101 | 104

Bartel has played the Swans five times since ’08, averaging 120 in that time. He also averages an impressive 119 at ANZ Stadium. Bartel scored 76 against the Swans when they played in round 7 this year.

Chapman‘s currently in career-best form, averaging 122 so far this year. Chapman scored 136 against the Swans when they played in round 7 this year.

Brisbane v Melbourne

-

Richmond v Adelaide

-

Footscray v North Melbourne

Matthew Boyd 104 | 121
Adam Cooney 107 | 119
Brian Lake 107 | 131

Boyd‘s had a great recent run of form at the Dome: he’s only failed to hit the SC ton twice in his last 11 outings there, averaging 117 in that time. He’s currently in career-best form, averaging 112 so far this season. B0yd scored 120 against the Roos when they played in round 9 this year.

Cooney‘s currently averaging just .3 less than in his Brownlow year. He’s currently on a great run at Etihad, averaging 127 from his last six games there. Cooney scored a massive 171 against the Roos when they played in round 9 this year.

Lake is in career-best form, averaging 110 so far this season, including massive games of 171, 179, 156 & 162. The Roos have been Lake’s favourite team since ’08, averaging 121 from the five games he’s played against them in that time. He’s currently on a great run at Etihad, averaging 123 from his last seven games there. Lake scored a massive 179 against the Roos when they played in round 9 this year.

Fremantle v West Coast

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I use a formula to generate my top 5. Thought I’d include my ‘predicted scores’ as well – just for a bit of fun. Gives you guys more ammo to hurl at me

Top 5 Captain Picks of Round 18
5. Brendan Goddard (126)
4. Luke Hodge (130)
3. Adam Cooney (132)
2. Dane Swan (133)
1. Brian Lake (140)

Here are the ‘best of the rest’ picks that I’d put up there with the top 5 if I was picking based on my opinion rather than via the formula:

X1. Gary Ablett

Ablett’s last four games against the Swans: 254, 155, 164, 204. umm… yea… nuff’ said!

If you selected ‘Other’ please comment below on who you picked.

Anybody I missed out this week? Let me know in the comments.

This week on the podcast we have:
Superstars
Let Downs
Bargain Watch
Player Discussion: Nick Riewoldt
Topic Discussion: Resting Players
Topic Discussion: The Run Home…

Subscribe to the podcast on iTunes

Click on me to download the podcast. (Right click then ‘Save As’)

Feedback in comments below.
Also: please rate, review and subscribe to the podcast in iTunes.
Cheers, guys, hope you enjoyed it.

Here’s the first question again:

With six rounds to play, and options, trades and cash drying up, we’re all down to our final upgrades.

Name, in each position, which three players will score the most points in the final six games of the season?

Some things you could consider in making your nominations are recent form, upcoming opposition, ladder position and chance of being rested.

Ben – 3 points

DEFENDERS

Brendon Goddard – $660,600 – 131.5

Not much needs to be said of this bloke, currently the highest averaging player in the competition, sitting on a whopping 131.5, higher than the perma captain himself.

Durability wise there aren’t any issues, and had his ‘rest’ the other week, meaning he should play out till round 22.

Upcoming teams is where it gets tasty, with 5 of the 6 games against bottom 8 teams, is set for a huge run home, including the following (and last score against opposition), Essendon (147), Port (101), North (139), Richmond (188), and Adelaide (148).

Luke Hodge – $569,800 – 124.7

Hodge has struck back with a vengance this year, averaging his highest since his lofty standards of 2005, is providing a very good Vice Captaincy option, and even the occasional Captaincy.

Durability has been a bit of an issue in the past, but he looks to have his head screwed on this year, and looks a far fitter player than previous years, don’t see any reason why he won’t finish the year playing all 22.

Upcoming teams aren’t as forgiving as Goddards, with the Saints, Dockers and Magpies to come, but should still run home averaging 120+, given that he steps up against tough opposition (156 v Dogs, 138 v Pies, 136 v Blues, 156 v Crows).

Brian Lake – $582,000 – 110.0

Lake has really stepped up another level this year, he’s become a genuine elite defender, and matching that with elite fantasy status, averaging a whopping 18pts higher than last year.

Durability is no issue for Lake, having only missed 2 games in the past 6 Home and Away Seasons, he’ll hit the park all 22.

Run Home is a bit of a mixed bag, but 3 of the 6 teams left he’s monstered, scoring 120 vs Essendon, 171 vs Sydney, and a whopping 179 vs North, and on current form shows no sign of slowing down, will end the year with a bang.

MIDFIELDERS

Dane Swan – $647,800 – 123.3

Swan has really backed up his last year efforts, after a tame start has really hit back with a bang, having notched up 12 tons in his past 13 games, 8 of those in excess of 120, so when he scores, he generally scores big.

Durability is no issue for Swan, not having missed a single Home and Away game in the past 4 years, isn’t an issue when it comes to selecting him.

Run home is quite favourable for the Pies, should win at least 5 of their last 6, and Swans current form shows no sign of stopping, he is a very strong finisher and will quite possibly run home averaging in excess of 130.

Leigh Montagna – $604,100 – 119.3

Not quite as prolific as last year, but Montagna is still a supercoach machine, with a habit of picking up 30 disposals, 10 tackles, and of late bagging 2-3 goals a game.

Durability isn’t really an issue, but the threat of being rested is. Was part of a core chunk of Saints midfielders who were rested late last year, causing grief to many fantasy coaches. There is a chance he may be rested, but for his elite scoring ability, it’s worth the risk.

Run home is excellent, and this is a large part of why Montagna is in my midfield list, coming up against teams with the recent scores of 115 vs Essendon, 140 vs Port, 152 vs North, 143 vs Richmond, and 159 vs the Crows. Should run out the year 130+

Chris Judd – $568,600 – 121.6

Judd has been back to his explosive best this year, getting back to the scoring standard of his prolific 05/06 Eagles days, and with Carlton looking to clutch a place in the 8, should fire on the run home.

Judd seems to be over his groin/shoulder injuries that have hampered his career of late, having played all 22 last year for the first time since 2004, with his 3 missed games this year due to suspension, he’s looking fast and fresh.

Run home is a bit of a mixed bag, will probably have a 50/50 W/L ratio, but Judd has a knack of stepping up in big games, and with scores like 142 against the Eagles, and 143 against the Cats, shows no matter the opposition, he will score.

RUCKS

Aaron Sandilands – $600,500 – 121.0

Sandilands has stepped up big time this year, adding a whopping 20 points to an already impressive SC average of 101, and is a must have for League & Overall success.

Durability can be a bit of an issue with Sandilands, but hasn’t shown any signs of fatigue this year, even with the bulk of the Docker ruck work on his shoulders.
As for being rested, I think in a way the Barlow injury may put to rest any chance of Sandilands being rested, they’re going to have to battle hard for a top 4 spot now, which means Sandilands will be required every game if fit.

Run home is a bit of a mixed bag for the Dockers, but I doubt it will impact Sandilands scoring, even in a losing team is still capable of churning out 130′s, and with the form he’s currently in, I can see him running home with 120+.

Shane Mumford – $472,500 – 90.6

Mumford has really relished his move to the Swans, and with Seaby going down early in the year, really fast-tracked his development, and is now a genuine elite ruckman of the competition.

Durability doesn’t seem to be a problem, seems to be gaining momentum each game, and with Seaby still out is likely to be well managed throughout the 22.

Tough run home for the Swans, but Mumford will still finish the year strong, with a lowest score of 84 in the last 7 weeks, and the fact that he’s still young and learning his craft, can see him finishing the year with a 95-100 average.

Patrick Ryder – $421,700 – 86.4

Ryder has followed his break out year with a very solid 2010, hasn’t really shown signs that he’ll become an elite fantasy ruckman, but will always be a fair scorer.

Ryder is very sound durability wise, misses the occasional 1 but with Hille recovering from multiple hamstring injuries, he’ll be very carefully managed throughout the season.

Run home is tough for the struggling Bombers, but with Hille likely to return shortly, will a bit of extra bite to the team, and also help Ryder with some more forward rotations, as Ryders best scores seem to come when Hille scores well.

FORWARDS

Paul Chapman – $589,700 – 123.7

The ever so injury prone Chapman has really stepped up to another level this year, with Riewoldt going down early and the very inconsistent form of the cheaper forwards, has been a real shining light to the people who picked him up.

Durability wise is always an issue with Chapman, every one of his owners hold their breath each time he’s running, waiting for the dreaded ‘twang’. But I believe the reward for picking him up is worth the risk.

Run home is fair, with a scoring history this year of 117 v Lions, 136 v Swans, 114 v Magpies, 110 v Blues & 142 v the Eagles, should definitely finish top out of the forwards.

Adam Goodes – $447,200 – 89.2

Goodes has had a real down year in 2010, really struggling to find his form up forward, and with Bradshaw out, has really hurt the Swans with the lack of forward targets. Until 2 weeks ago I would have said avoid at all costs, but it looks like his selection may pay off, after finally being moved in to his lucrative midfield position.

Durability is not an issue at all with Goodes, he has one of the most extraordinary durable careers, and don’t see any reason as to why it’ll change, especially since he’s only missed 3 Home and Away games in the last 9 years.

Run home is where it gets interesting for Goodes, going on previous scores against his opposition (when he last played in the midfield, not up forward), 112 vs Geelong, 166 vs Hawthorn, 108 vs Fremantle, 160 vs Bulldogs, and 156 against Brisbane.

Current form is definitely a plus when selecting Goodes, after finally being unleashed in to the midfield has torn apart North & Carlton with whopping scores of 173 and 121, and I don’t doubt he’s hungry for more.

Matthew Pavlich – $434,300 – 102.2

Pav has tailed off recently, struggling to match his amazing early season form, but with Fremantle looking to make the top 4, expect this guy to fire up and try lift his team in to a second chance.

Durability has been a bit of an issue for Pav of late, having missed 6 Home and Away games in the past 2 seasons, but hasn’t shown any signs of struggling this year, and with Freo looking to claim a top 4 spot, there is no chance of him being rested.

Run home is a mixed bag for Freo, including a couple of teams who he monstered earlier in the year, so I wouldn’t expect him to stay out of form much longer, should definitely run out the year in the top 3-5 forwards.

MY ANSWER

DEFENDERS

B.Goddard & L.Hodge

The two highest-averaging defenders by a fair margin and will remain that way in the remaining games.

B.Lake

Has the highest score ceiling of all the defenders. Lake has pumped out massive scores of 156, 162, 171 & 179 so far this season. In contrast, Hodge’s highest score of the year is 156. Should smash the season home with four of the bottom nine sides to come.

MIDFIELDERS

G.Ablett & D.Swan

The two highest-averaging midfielders by a reasonable margin. Swan has timed his run to the finals perfectly and has really hit his straps now. Gazza, despite performing below his usual standard in recent weeks, has averaged 140+ in previous seasons and I expect him to at least hold an average in the top two to run the season home.

L.Montagna

An ultra-premium who has five sides not in the eight yet to play… that’s as good as it gets. Only issues with Montagna are playing at ice rink Etihad and the possibility of resting.

FORWARDS

P.Chapman

Highest-averaging forward by FAR, and will stay that way in the remaining rounds. There is, however, a fair chance he will be given one week off to give the hammies a rest before the finals.

A.Goodes

Back in the midfield means back to scoring like a SC gun. Remember – Goodes averaged a massive 114 last year. Is in red-hot form and will continue with it in the last few rounds of the season.

A.Didak

Didak is the only other forward whom I can say with fair confidence will average 100+ in the remaining games. Very consistent, in good form, with a mixed yet reasonable run home.

QOTW Ladder
Ben – 13
Joel – 9.5
Andrew – 6
Lozza – 5
Mathew – 4.5
cledus32 – 3.5
Kinggo – 3.5
Blizzrd – 3
bluebaggas – 3
JJ – 2.5
Jamie – 2
Stephen – 1.5
CJisFAT – 1
Cool9(Kym) – 1
Toby – 1
Jakes – 0.5.

Brag/Rant in the comments!

ADELAIDE
Brett Burton (ankle) – test
James Craig (hamstring) – season
Simon Goodwin (ankle) – test
Chris Knights (side strain) – test
Andrew McLeod (knee) – 1-2 weeks
Brad Moran (knee) – 3 weeks
Andy Otten (knee) – season
Jared Petrenko (foot) – season
Sam Shaw (back) – indefinite
Daniel Talia (knee) – season

BRISBANE LIONS
Matt Austin (leg) – season
Donald Barry (sinus) – season
Callum Bartlett (knee) – season
Simon Black (ankle) – test
Amon Buchanan (quad) – TBC
Jamie Charman (ankle) – season
Josh Drummond (knee) – 2 weeks
Mitch Golby (knee) – season
Andrew Raines (quad) – 1 week
Troy Selwood (glute) – test

CARLTON
Dennis Armfield (neck) – test
Ryan Houlihan (knee) – test
Matthew Kreuzer (knee) – season
Kane Lucas (hamstring) – indefinite
Brock McLean (knee) – 1 week
Rhys O’Keeffe (back) – indefinite
Simon White (hip) – season

COLLINGWOOD
Anthony Corrie (knee) – 1-2 weeks
Brad Dick (shoulder) – test
Heath Shaw (back) – test

ESSENDON
Darcy Daniher (adductor) – TBC
Ricky Dyson (knee) – test
David Hille (hamstring) – test
Jason Laycock (foot) – season
Anthony Long (hamstring) – 3 weeks
Tayte Pears (pancreas) – season
Taite Silverlock (leg) – season
Henry Slattery (ribs) – 1-2 weeks
Andrew Welsh (adductor) – test
John Williams (shoulder) – test
Mark Williams (ankle) – season
Jason Winderlich (hand) – 1-2 weeks

FREMANTLE
Michael Barlow (leg) – season
Kepler Bradley (knee) – test
Ryan Crowley (knee) – 4 weeks
Des Headland (knee) – test
Chris Mayne (ankle) – 1-2 weeks
Rhys Palmer (shoulder) – test
Alex Silvagni (groin) – 3 weeks
Chris Tarrant (heel) – test

GEELONG
Mitch Brown (shoulder) – season
Max Rooke (knee) – indefinite
Jesse Stringer (hip) – season
Adam Varcoe (knee) – season

HAWTHORN
Max Bailey (knee) – indefinite

MELBOURNE
Jack Grimes (hamstring) – 2-3 weeks
Jordie Gysberts (back) – 2-4 weeks
Rhys Healey (hamstring) – test
Danny Hughes (ankle) – 3-4 weeks
John Meesen (foot) – season
Brent Moloney (corked thigh) – test
Michael Newton (quad) – 1 week
Ricky Petterd (shoulder) – season
Jake Spencer (back) – 2 weeks

NORTH MELBOURNE
Liam Anthony (shoulder) – 3 weeks
Aaron Black (hip) – indefinite
Majak Daw (knee) – 1 week
Cruize Garlett (calf) – 2 weeks
Nathan Grima (quad) – 1 week
Scott McMahon (knee) – test
Drew Petrie (foot) – indefinite
Daniel Pratt (hamstring) – test
Ben Ross (hip/groin) – indefinite
Robbie Tarrant (thumb) – 3 weeks
Lindsay Thomas (knee) – test
Daniel Wells (quad) – test
Jack Ziebell (leg) – indefinite

PORT ADELAIDE
Chad Cornes (finger) – 4 weeks
Hamish Hartlett (quad) – season
Matt Lobbe (hamstring) – 3 weeks
Tom Logan (concussion) – test
Steven Salopek (shoulder) – season
Jacob Surjan (knee) – season
Wade Thompson (quad) – 1 week

RICHMOND
Matt Dea (foot) – 2-3 weeks
Nathan Foley (leg) – season
Ben Griffiths (shoulder) – season
Tom Hislop (patella) – season
Jordan McMahon (ankle) – 1-2 weeks
Kelvin Moore (leg) – test
Adam Thompson (groin) – season
Matthew White (leg) – test

ST KILDA
David Armitage (knee) – indefinite
Raphael Clarke (hamstring) – test
Nick Dal Santo (broken nose) – TBC
Steven King (hamstring) – 2 weeks
Jesse Smith (ankle) – season

SYDNEY SWANS
Craig Bird (foot) – 1 week
Craig Bolton (achilles) – 2-3 weeks
Daniel Bradshaw (hamstring) – 2-3 weeks
Jake Orreal (back) – season
Lewis Roberts-Thomson (hamstring) – 1-2 weeks
Mark Seaby (ankle) – 2-3 weeks
Nick Smith (hamstring) – 1-2 weeks
Kristin Thornton (hamstring) – 1 week

WEST COAST
Sam Butler (foot) – 3-4 weeks
Bradd Dalziell (finger) – 5 weeks
Darren Glass (abdomen) – season
Ash Hansen (hip) – 3-4 weeks
Jordan Jones (ankle) 1-2 weeks
Daniel Kerr (hamstring) – season
Mark Nicoski (shoulder) – season
Adam Selwood (AC joint) 1-2 weeks
Luke Shuey (virus) – test
Koby Stevens (AC joint) – test

WESTERN BULLDOGS
Ayce Cordy (shoulder) – season
Mitch Hahn (hamstring) – test
Eddie Prato (quad) – 1 week
Sam Reid (shoulder) – season
Brennan Stack (hamstring) – 2 weeks
Shane Thorne (knee) – 4 weeks
Callan Ward (hip) – test

Post your injury rants/rumours in the comments.

Adelaide

• Jack Gunston played well for Central Disticts picking up 8 kicks, 9 handballs and 6 marks. He played in a variety of positions and kicked 2 goals
• Phil Davis played a defensive role for West Adelaide and finished with 4 kicks, 10 handballs, 4 marks and 7 spoils
• Rookie Matthew Wright played one of his best SANFL games with 8 kicks, 16 handballs and 4 marks for West Adelaide

Brisbane

There were no games in the QAFL so the Lions’ Reserves had a weekend off.

Carlton

• Mitch Robinson was named on of the Northern Bullants’ best players in their big loss to Williamstown
• Recently dropped ruckman Sam Jacobs kicked a goal and was also named in the best
• Steven Browne and Joe Anderson were also named in the best with Anderson kicking a goal
• Brad Fisher kicked 2 goals while Marcus Davies and Ashley Arrowsmith kicked 1
• Mark Austin and Bret Thornton both played for the Bullants but didn’t feature in the best or the goalkickers

Collingwood

• Paul Medhurst pressed his case, kicking a goal and being named best for Collingwood’s VFL team
• John McCarthy, Nathan Brown, Jarrad Blight and Simon Buckley were all named in the best with McCarthy also kicking a goal
• Luke Rounds and Jaxson Barham each kicked 2 goals while Simon Rusling and Cameron Wood each kicked 1
• John Anthony and Josh Fraser might have to wait a bit longer after not getting named in the best

Essendon

• Nathan Lovett-Murray kicked a goal and was named in the best for the Bendigo Bombers
• Jake Melksham kicked a goal and was in the best in his first VFL game
• Michael Still kicked 2 goals while Michael Quinn kicked 1
• Jake Carlisle, Tyson Slattery, Jarrod Atkinson and Christian Bock all played VFL this week but were not named in the best

Fremantle

• Clayton Hinkley had 13 kicks, 12 handballs and 4 marks playing for Swan Districts
• Matt Riggio picked up 18 disposals also playing for Swan Districts
• Byron Schammer had 10 kicks, 9 handballs, 6 marks and kicked a goal playing for Claremont

Simon Hogan

Geelong

• Simon Hogan will be pushing for a recall after a best-on-ground performance for Geelong’s VFL team
• Jeremy Laidler, Nathan Djerrkura and Trent West were all also named in the best
• Daniel Menzel kicked 4 goals, Nathan Vardy and Steven Motlop kicked 2, and Taylor Hunt and Dawson Simpson kicked singles
• Ryan Gamble, Mitch Duncan, Tom Gillies, Tom Hawkins and Ranga Ediriwickrama all played but were not named in the best

Hawthorn

• Shane Savage kicked a goal and was named best-on for the Box Hill Hawks
• Travis Tuck, Garry Moss and Jarryd Morton were all named in the best with Morton adding 2 goals
• Jordan Lisle kicked 2 goals and Beau Dowler kicked 1
• Cameron Stokes, Simon Taylor, Beau Muston and Jarrod Kayler-Thomson all played for the Hawks but didn’t feature in the best or the goalkickers

Melbourne

• Brad Miller kicked 4 goals and was named in the best for the Casey Scorpions
• Kyle Cheney and Luke Tapscott were also named in the best with Tapscott also kicking 2 goals
• Neville Jetta kicked 2 goals while James McDonald kicked 1 returning from injury
• Recently dropped forward Matthew Bate kicked 1 goal
• Jack Fitzpatrick, Daniel Bell and Matthew Warnock all played for Casey but weren’t named in the best

North Melbourne

• David Hale kicked 2 goals and was named in the best for North Ballarat before backing up for the double on Saturday night
• Clinton Jones kicked 3 goals while Brayden Norris kicked 2
• Warren Benjamin played for the Rebels but didn’t get a mention in the best
• Alan Obst played for the Werribee Tigers but wasn’t named in the best

Port Adelaide

• Jason Davenport kicked 2 goals in West Adelaide’s loss to Central Districts
• Scott Harding was named in the best also for West Adelaide

Richmond

• Richard Tambling may earn a recall after being the Coburg Tigers’ best player
• Graham Polak was also named in the best after kicking 3 goals
• Tyrone Vickery kicked 2 goals for the Tigers
• Dylan Grimes and Troy Taylor both played but weren’t named in the best

St Kilda

• Adam Pattison kicked a goal and was named in the best for Sandringham
• David Gallagher and Will Johnson were also named in the best
• Rhys Stanley kicked 2 goals while Robert Eddy snagged 1
• Tommy Walsh, Nicholas Henye and Luke Miles all played but weren’t named in the best

Sydney

There was no action up north this weekend with the Swans’ Reserves having a rest with no games played in the AFL Canberra

West Coast

• Will Sullivan had a tough day in the ruck against Zac Beeck finishing with 13 disposals and 12 hitouts for Perth
• Jarrod Oakley-Nicholls had another good game, winning 23 disposals  and kicking 6 goals for East Perth
• Tom Swift played off half-back for Claremont, finishing off with 10 kicks, 14 handballs and 5 marks
• Brett Jones had 15 kicks, 11 handballs and took 6 marks also for Claremont

Western Bulldogs

• Patrick Rose kicked 6 goals and was one of Williamstown’s best players
• Tim Callan and Dylan Addison were both named in the best

Looks like some big names might have earned a recall after their efforts over the weekend. So, who have you got playing in the 2s at the moment? Did you get down to a reserves game this weekend? Was there anyone who looked like they should be playing on the big stage? Get stuck into the comments.

BENCHED
BACKS: [EMG]J.Webberley | P.Davis
MIDS: [EMG]J.Gysberts | L.Shuey
RUCKS: M.Lobbe | B.McCauley
FORWARDS: [EMG]J.Watts | C.Hitchcock

$82,000 and 2 trades remaining.

Player Name – Round 17 Score

Luke Hodge – 149
Brendon Goddard – 97
Nick Malceski – 115
Lindsay Gilbee – 77
Sam Gilbert – 59
Corey Enright – 45
Beau Waters – 108
Dane Swan – 190
Gary Ablett jnr – 144
Joel Selwood – 175
Leigh Montagna – 49
Marc Murphy – 129
Chris Judd (C) – 220
Aaron Sandilands – 45
Patrick Ryder – 90
Matthew Pavlich – 99
Eddie Betts – 115
Ryan O’Keefe – 25
James Podsiadly – 70
Lance Franklin – 88
Jonathan Brown – 63
Jarrad Waite – 102

Final Round 16 Total – 2254
Weekly Ranking – 19,158
Overall Ranking – 1816 (up 273)

Gilbee, Gilbert and Enright have been TERRIBLE in recent weeks as my ‘premium’ defenders.

Just picked Judd over Swan for the captaincy. D’OH!

Hard to believe Betts is averaging more than ROK at the moment… ROK really needs to lift his game.

Brown will continue to struggle to produce good numbers due to how shit the Lions are playing.

Have given up on my aim of top 500, it simply is no longer realistic. I’m 270 points off top 1000 however, I hope to make that up in the next 5 rounds.