Brett Ratten has it all in front of him now. From their best finish in recent history, a promising future and eyes on a Top 4 spot, it has fallen in a bit of a heap. Yes, the loss of Fevola will hurt considerably, he has been the marquee player, and leading goal kicker for a long period. They still have a good blend of youth, and some key senior personnel, so perhaps not all is lost. So what tricks do the Blues have up their sleeves to ensure they remain finalists?
Forward Line:
So how are the Carlton forwards going to kick match winning scores? Who do they have that can even play forward I hear you asking... Well there is no quick fix or easy answer to this question. Lachie Henderson is one name that is sure to be mentioned frequently. As part of the Lions trade for Fevola Henderson has ended up as a Blue, and he is a big, strapping lad who has spent most of his time in Brisbane playing in the back half. He was however recruited as a key forward, and should be given the opportunity to develop there for the Blues. He won't be the saviour though, but if he can return 30 goals, that would be a terrific result and ease the burden.
A bit of a forgotten man, Jarrad Waite is the key in this writers opinion. Waite has the size, the experience and the ability to become the Blues focal point. At his best, he's one of the most versatile swing men in the AFL, able to play forward and back, kick goals and battle against the better key forwards. So where will he be most value? Well surely this year, it's in front of the big sticks. If Carlton are going to challenge for the Top 8 again this year, a lot of responsibility rests on Waite's shoulders. He'll want a return of 50+ goals, and if he can do so, the Blues should be well on their way.
Eddie Betts will supply a few goals, and the Blues will also be hoping the young Chris Yarran can play some meaningful football in the forward half. Combine this with a midfield who loves kicking goals, including Judd, Murphy, Gibbs, Simpson and a host of younger players who don't mind a shy at the sticks including Mitch Robinson and Kreuzer, who could find himself spending more time in attack. The Western Bulldogs showed last year that an even spread of goal kickers can equate to some very large scores, and if the Blues follow suit, they will challenge again.
Key Player: Jarrad Waite
He's the man. He's very much an underrated player outside of Carlton circles, but one that every club would love to have on board. After battling injury worries last year, the big 194cm, 97kg key position player should be ready to go by Round 1 of the AFL Premiership Season. His ability to kick goals is now super important to Carlton's finals chances, and entering the prime of his career, a rejuvinated Waite is certainly the man capable of improving the Blues fortunes.
He gives them added versatility, and by playing him forward it will make the job easier for the developing Henderson as well as any ruckman who finds himself resting in the F50 throughout the match. Waite will take contested marks, but is also mobile enough to cause headaches for some of the more old school defenders out there. He'll also be making the most of more entries targeting him, and some great delivery from a quality midfield. He's going to have a great year, bookmark it.
Midfield:
The midfield will again be the major strength of Carlton. They have a number of established players including Chris Judd, Marc Murphy and Bryce Gibbs - all top line midfielders who have worked well together. Murphy and Gibbs will be looking to improve again, and Judd should be raring to go after completing what is regarded as his best pre-season at his new club. The remainder of the midfield isn't bad either, Kade Simpson has come along in leaps and bounds, and is now regarded as a quality run and carry midfielder who can also win his own ball.
Add in to the mix a few younger guys including Mitch Robinson, a long time favourite of this writers, Shaun Grigg who'll be looking to build on a disappointing 2009, Chris Yarran who will be looking for the occassional burst through the middle and Kane Lucas who already having some senior level experience out West will be hoping to play a few senior games in 2010. That's some quality youth coming through, and all offer something slightly different, making it a very exciting mix. Aaron Joseph also arrived last year as a tagger, and should continue to improve this season with the Carlton Match Committee hoping that he can add some more offensive weaponry to his arsenal and become damaging with the ball in hand, as well as a preventer.
Brock McLean is the other player worth mentioning here. He's already come under the scrutiny of the Carlton supporters for his lacklustre performance in their opening NAB Cup game. What will he add to the mix? Brock is a slow, in and under player, so if he can find his feet in that role, he could potentially add a lot to their mix. He'll block and sheppard for the younger blokes, he'll win hard balls on his knees and use his hands to create space for the players who do their best work outside - and there are a lot of them.
Key Player: Bryce Gibbs
There has already been a lot of expectation put on Gibbs, and he's probably already exceeded most of it with what he has accomplished thus far in his short career. He's the perfect midfield weapon. Inside, outside, he's got great hands, enough pace, beautiful foot skills, overhead marking ability, a defensive side...is there a box he doesn't tick? If Carlton are to again challenge in September, this man is the key. Forget Judd and Murphy, we know what they can do and we know they'll attract a lot of attention from opposition stoppers.
This will allow Gibbs to go under the radar a little, and if he can again improve by 5-10%, watch out. He's already in the top 20 midfielders in the competition, but the ceiling on Bryce is limitless, he could become the best midfielder in the competition, such is his array of talents. He's still only young, and has a lot of hard work in front of him, but he is the man capable of setting up the Blues season over the first few rounds whilst Judd is suspended.
Rucks:
Carlton certainly have a lot of rucks at their disposal. The challenge will be finding the right combinations, and deciding if perhaps one of them will be better suited in a permanent role in the forward half. Kreuzer is obviously the strongest contender - he's not bad with his tap work, but around the ground he excels. The only issue is, he seems the more likely of the foursome to be able to compete successfully up forward. Is this a luxury they'll be able to afford, and if so, will Kreuzer be able to be effective spending more time up forward?
Shaun Hampson is a huge unit, and it will be expected that he'll also be given some opportunities in the forward half to showcase his abilities. He's an exciting ruck prospect too, measuring in at over 200cms and over 100kgs. The rest of the bunch will also be given opportunities, and Warnock was played in the NAB Cup opening round, and whilst not a terrific performance by any stretch, showed a bit in patches. Sam Jacobs from South Australia is the other big man who had a few opportunities last year and didn't look out of place. After arriving at the club as a rookie, he managed 4 matches for the 2009 season and was justly rewarded with a spot on the senior list. This kid looks very promising, and seeing the strides he can take this year will be very intriguing.
Defenders:
The Carlton defence has long been regarded as their weakness, however it has improved over the past few seasons, and now appears to be slightly underrated across the board. In Jamison they have unearthed a player who looks capable of becoming a career-quality key position defender, and they are not easy to find. He'll work in conjunction with a few other underrated players, including Thornton, Walker, Bower and O'hAilpin who'll all be vying for roles in the back half. Not a bad bunch of players there in support, and certainly enough quality to build a solid defensive unit around.
Add to that mix the experienced Carrazzo, Russell and swingman Scotland, they have a few senior players capable of filling the roles of smaller defenders. Let's not forget Armfield, who'll be looking for more senior opportunities in 2010. What would be terrific to see, would be one of the youngsters, such as Grigg, Robinson or Lucas given a role running and carrying the ball out of defence. Chris Yarran could also be a viable option for his role, and would match up well on the majority of small "goalsneak" forwards that are common at most clubs. With his ball use and decision making streaming out of defence, he could add a lot to their mix.
And that will be the key for their back line, finding that balance between attack and defence, and finding players capable of running, carrying and delivering the footy from the back half.
Key Player: Michael Jamison
Having a key defender capable of holding opposition key forwards is a must, and Jamison looks capable of being that bloke. His defensive side is good, he has good closing speed for a big unit, and isn't afraid to throw his body into a contest to make the last second spoil. At the moment, he's very much a blue collar defender, but he has also demonstrated the ability to run off his opponent when the time is right.
He needs to continue to work on his offensive skill set, but he has shown all the signs, and with the Carlton back line looking fairly capable, with a good range of taller players, Jamison may be able to experiment more often with taking the game on and making his opponent accountable. This is a must now, with key defenders such as Scarlett, Lake and Gilbert readily moving the ball forwards. If Jamison can continue to develop and improve in the role, the Blues could have themselves a winner here.
Conclusion:
So just how will it all fall together? Will their defence hold up? Can their midfield produce the same quality it did in 2009, or can it improve again? Is Waite the answer up forward? Can Eddie Betts match his 2009 output? There is certainly much to like about what lies ahead, but caution must also be shown. There are no guarantees, and certainly there are a lot of unknowns. In this writers opinion, they will miss the final 8. Not for lack of trying, or even lack of improvement, but this season promises to be one of the most even, ever. There are bound to be a lot of significant improver's, such as Hawthorn, so whilst the Blues will be hopeful of maintaining ground, that may not be enough, but hey, stranger things have happened....
Finish: 6-10.
B&F Winner: Chris Judd
NAB Rising Star Nominations: Mitch Robinson, Chris Yarran.
Injured Players for Rd 1: Brad Fisher has unfortnuately injured his ACL, word is he will be having LARS surgery on his knee, so may return during the 2010 season. Marc Murphy and Jarrad Waite are both on the come back from surgery, Murphy will definitely play Rd 1, and Waite should - although may come back slightly later.
Brownlow Medal Hope: Marc Murphy.
Leading Goal-kicker: Jarrad Waite.
Wednesday, February 24, 2010
Saturday, February 20, 2010
Brisbane Lions Season Preview
Is Voss a genius, or a very silly man? The jury is still out, but how the Brisbane Lions season unfolds could well change the way that sides approach the Trade Week - in the very least Voss' approach to list management is sure to be a talking point for years to come. Having been knocked out in a semi-final by the Western Bulldogs in 2009, Brisbane will be one of many sides hoping to improve again in 2010.
Forward Line:
One of the seasons biggest stories will be how Brendan Fevola goes playing up North, and exactly how they Lions set up having him pairing with Johnathon Brown. In these two, the Lions have two of the most exciting and reliable key forwards in the AFL. Both are capable of kicking regular bags, and it would not surprise for their return to be higher than the rival two-pronged attack down in Hawthorn. Brown will enjoy the freedom of being able to spend more time up the field, and possibly take a few midfield rotations like he has in the past. Fevola will be comfortable leading out from the goal square, and should enjoy some good delivery from the likes of Power, Black and Rich.
The remainder of the Lions forward set up is still a bit of a mystery at this stage, with no real stand outs who are likely to contribute significantly to the goals tally. There is however a handful of younger players coming through, such as Polkinghorne, Sheldon and Rockliff (who was very impressive in the NAB Cup last week against the Western Bulldogs, Super Coach fans) who are sure to give the Lions fans some faith in their developing youth.
Buchanan and Staker, two new recruits will also get their opportunities in the forward half, and it will be interesting to see the management of their 3 rucks, and if one of Charman, Clark or Leuenburger get an opportunity to cement a spot as a more permanent forward.
Key Player: Brendan Fevola
How Fevola goes this season will be a big factor in the Lions ability to improve on their 2009 season. Fevola at his best could return 80-100 goals, and whilst the Lions won't want to put too much pressure, or even mark Fevola based on his goals-output, they will be quietly hoping he can provide a significant number of goals. Having Brown in the same side is sure to help Fevola, as he may often receive the second best defender, and working with Brown they will be able to stretch many of the Leagues best backlines.
Midfield:
The Lions midfield is looking very strong, with a good mixture of players with different qualities. The old heads of Black and Power will again be super important - they are still very effective players who'll require the attention of opposition taggers. Daniel Rich will be looking to improve on his terrific 2009 season, and has the tools to become a very damaging player, with his ability to win the contested ball and also use it with a powerful, penetrating boot.
Travis Johnstone will be hoping for a more consistent season after struggling at times last year. At this best, he's a solid contributor who can work outside in the space and use his foot skills to advantage. Brennan provides the X-Factor, and is a difficult match up for any opposition coach. He can play inside and out, and just has the knack of doing special things at the right times. He'll drift forward, take huge marks and kick goals. He'll put in a few repeat efforts and dazzle with his ability to take the ball and accelerate.
Not far behind in the X-Factor department is one of my favourites, Justin Sherman. Add Rischitelli - whose certainly one to watch with interest this year to see how his role may change, Selwood, Redden and a few others likely to spend some more time in the midfield rotations such as Polkinghorne, and it's a good looking mix.
Key Player: Justin Sherman
Sherman is one bloke who is just exciting to watch. He's unpredictable, which his coach would love and opposition coaches would have nightmares about. He's confident, he's quick and he loves to take the game on at every opportunity. At times he'll look foolish doing so, but players like him who are prepared to take the game on and break it open are worth their weight in gold.
Fevola and Brown will love seeing him dashing forward, and the inside players will be looking to find Sherman in space at every opportunity. How Sherman handles the additional pressure this year, and how teams move to counteract his brazen run and carry will be a good story to follow.
Rucks:
So who is the Brisbane Lions #1 ruck? Last year they looked in a lot of trouble when suddenly they were caught without their first two choices in Charman and Leuenberger, but what a difference a year can make. Mitch Clark is now the undisputed #1, however could he be of more value playing in a different position? He was after all drafted as a key position player, not a ruckman.
Charman and Leuenberger are set to battle it out for the #2 role, and Leuenberger seems set to be the man, however don't discount Charman. Whether they can fit all 3 in the side remains to be seen, but in my opinion it is doubtful - unless one of them can add another string to their bow and do more than pinch hit in the F50. Charman could well do just that, but how his mobility and agility goes coming back from a fairly serious injury will be interesting to observe. At the end of the day, the Lions will have terrific depth through their ruck stocks, and will be hoping to use this to advantage over many other sides, especially the top sides, many of whom don't look as comparably strong in the ruck department.
Key Player: Mitch Clark
Can Clark replicate his form from 2009? Can he take that form to a new level? The supporters of the Brisbane Lions will be hopeful of the later, but would probably be content with the former too - such was the form Clark displayed in 2009. But where to from here? Is he a ruck first and foremost, or is he still capable of holding down a key position elsewhere - and does the addition of Fevola help make the decision easier? Surely he's got to lead the rucks again, and he should prove the ideal player to match it with the up and coming generation, the Kruezer's and Naitinui's who are set to showcase elite agility and speed around the ground in combination with their rucking duties.
Defenders:
The Brisbane back half is very blue-collar, and I say this in a polite way, because a hard working defence is what every team wants. No nonsense, get the job done. There are some handy names down there, including a player I liken to All-Australian Dale Morris - Joel Patfull, as well as Merret and McGrath who aren't the prettiest players going around, but they'll get the job done. They'll play above their weight with no fuss and not give an inch. There is also plenty of class in the back half, Adcock and Drummond are two of the premier run and carry defenders, who love racking up the possessions and breaking the lines.
Hawksley is a relatively unknown guy at this stage, but he'll be looking to improve again on the back of his 7 games last season. McGuire - one of the more intruiging pick ups of the off-season will be another who could well play a key role in the back half for the Lions. If he can get his body right he can really assist with their match ups down back, and will allow greater freedom to players such as Patfull who'll no doubt be looking to become a bit more of an offensive weapon during the 2010 AFL season.
The loss of Joel MacDonald may hurt, but the Lions have acquired Andrew Raines - a player who at his peak should be able to nail a role in the backline. He's another who had a very disappointing season down at Richmond in 2009, and will be hoping the move north can resurrect his career.
Conclusion:
Brisbane will again be around the mark - all going well. They have added some key players, and a few others who if they can take the next step, or make a come back to their previous form should add a lot to their group. Ensuring their forward line set up works well is crucial, as will be providing some protection for Daniel Rich who is set to become a marked man during the 2010 season. Can guys like Patfull and Polkinghorne find new levels? Can Clark repeat or improve on his 2009 form? Will Brennan have another consistent season? Will Travis Johnstone survive? And what impact will age have on Power and Black? Like I said, if all goes to plan, they could have a very good year. So, is Voss a genius? The proof will be in the pudding....
Finish: 5-8.
B&F Winner: Mitch Clark
NAB Rising Star Nominations: Redden, Rockliff.
Injured Players for Rd 1: Barlett, Clarke and Garner. All have knee injuries and their progress should be monitored. All unlikely to play in 2010.
Brownlow Medal Hope: Simon Black
Leading Goal Kicker: Brendan Fevola
Forward Line:
One of the seasons biggest stories will be how Brendan Fevola goes playing up North, and exactly how they Lions set up having him pairing with Johnathon Brown. In these two, the Lions have two of the most exciting and reliable key forwards in the AFL. Both are capable of kicking regular bags, and it would not surprise for their return to be higher than the rival two-pronged attack down in Hawthorn. Brown will enjoy the freedom of being able to spend more time up the field, and possibly take a few midfield rotations like he has in the past. Fevola will be comfortable leading out from the goal square, and should enjoy some good delivery from the likes of Power, Black and Rich.
The remainder of the Lions forward set up is still a bit of a mystery at this stage, with no real stand outs who are likely to contribute significantly to the goals tally. There is however a handful of younger players coming through, such as Polkinghorne, Sheldon and Rockliff (who was very impressive in the NAB Cup last week against the Western Bulldogs, Super Coach fans) who are sure to give the Lions fans some faith in their developing youth.
Buchanan and Staker, two new recruits will also get their opportunities in the forward half, and it will be interesting to see the management of their 3 rucks, and if one of Charman, Clark or Leuenburger get an opportunity to cement a spot as a more permanent forward.
Key Player: Brendan Fevola
How Fevola goes this season will be a big factor in the Lions ability to improve on their 2009 season. Fevola at his best could return 80-100 goals, and whilst the Lions won't want to put too much pressure, or even mark Fevola based on his goals-output, they will be quietly hoping he can provide a significant number of goals. Having Brown in the same side is sure to help Fevola, as he may often receive the second best defender, and working with Brown they will be able to stretch many of the Leagues best backlines.
Midfield:
The Lions midfield is looking very strong, with a good mixture of players with different qualities. The old heads of Black and Power will again be super important - they are still very effective players who'll require the attention of opposition taggers. Daniel Rich will be looking to improve on his terrific 2009 season, and has the tools to become a very damaging player, with his ability to win the contested ball and also use it with a powerful, penetrating boot.
Travis Johnstone will be hoping for a more consistent season after struggling at times last year. At this best, he's a solid contributor who can work outside in the space and use his foot skills to advantage. Brennan provides the X-Factor, and is a difficult match up for any opposition coach. He can play inside and out, and just has the knack of doing special things at the right times. He'll drift forward, take huge marks and kick goals. He'll put in a few repeat efforts and dazzle with his ability to take the ball and accelerate.
Not far behind in the X-Factor department is one of my favourites, Justin Sherman. Add Rischitelli - whose certainly one to watch with interest this year to see how his role may change, Selwood, Redden and a few others likely to spend some more time in the midfield rotations such as Polkinghorne, and it's a good looking mix.
Key Player: Justin Sherman
Sherman is one bloke who is just exciting to watch. He's unpredictable, which his coach would love and opposition coaches would have nightmares about. He's confident, he's quick and he loves to take the game on at every opportunity. At times he'll look foolish doing so, but players like him who are prepared to take the game on and break it open are worth their weight in gold.
Fevola and Brown will love seeing him dashing forward, and the inside players will be looking to find Sherman in space at every opportunity. How Sherman handles the additional pressure this year, and how teams move to counteract his brazen run and carry will be a good story to follow.
Rucks:
So who is the Brisbane Lions #1 ruck? Last year they looked in a lot of trouble when suddenly they were caught without their first two choices in Charman and Leuenberger, but what a difference a year can make. Mitch Clark is now the undisputed #1, however could he be of more value playing in a different position? He was after all drafted as a key position player, not a ruckman.
Charman and Leuenberger are set to battle it out for the #2 role, and Leuenberger seems set to be the man, however don't discount Charman. Whether they can fit all 3 in the side remains to be seen, but in my opinion it is doubtful - unless one of them can add another string to their bow and do more than pinch hit in the F50. Charman could well do just that, but how his mobility and agility goes coming back from a fairly serious injury will be interesting to observe. At the end of the day, the Lions will have terrific depth through their ruck stocks, and will be hoping to use this to advantage over many other sides, especially the top sides, many of whom don't look as comparably strong in the ruck department.
Key Player: Mitch Clark
Can Clark replicate his form from 2009? Can he take that form to a new level? The supporters of the Brisbane Lions will be hopeful of the later, but would probably be content with the former too - such was the form Clark displayed in 2009. But where to from here? Is he a ruck first and foremost, or is he still capable of holding down a key position elsewhere - and does the addition of Fevola help make the decision easier? Surely he's got to lead the rucks again, and he should prove the ideal player to match it with the up and coming generation, the Kruezer's and Naitinui's who are set to showcase elite agility and speed around the ground in combination with their rucking duties.
Defenders:
The Brisbane back half is very blue-collar, and I say this in a polite way, because a hard working defence is what every team wants. No nonsense, get the job done. There are some handy names down there, including a player I liken to All-Australian Dale Morris - Joel Patfull, as well as Merret and McGrath who aren't the prettiest players going around, but they'll get the job done. They'll play above their weight with no fuss and not give an inch. There is also plenty of class in the back half, Adcock and Drummond are two of the premier run and carry defenders, who love racking up the possessions and breaking the lines.
Hawksley is a relatively unknown guy at this stage, but he'll be looking to improve again on the back of his 7 games last season. McGuire - one of the more intruiging pick ups of the off-season will be another who could well play a key role in the back half for the Lions. If he can get his body right he can really assist with their match ups down back, and will allow greater freedom to players such as Patfull who'll no doubt be looking to become a bit more of an offensive weapon during the 2010 AFL season.
The loss of Joel MacDonald may hurt, but the Lions have acquired Andrew Raines - a player who at his peak should be able to nail a role in the backline. He's another who had a very disappointing season down at Richmond in 2009, and will be hoping the move north can resurrect his career.
Conclusion:
Brisbane will again be around the mark - all going well. They have added some key players, and a few others who if they can take the next step, or make a come back to their previous form should add a lot to their group. Ensuring their forward line set up works well is crucial, as will be providing some protection for Daniel Rich who is set to become a marked man during the 2010 season. Can guys like Patfull and Polkinghorne find new levels? Can Clark repeat or improve on his 2009 form? Will Brennan have another consistent season? Will Travis Johnstone survive? And what impact will age have on Power and Black? Like I said, if all goes to plan, they could have a very good year. So, is Voss a genius? The proof will be in the pudding....
Finish: 5-8.
B&F Winner: Mitch Clark
NAB Rising Star Nominations: Redden, Rockliff.
Injured Players for Rd 1: Barlett, Clarke and Garner. All have knee injuries and their progress should be monitored. All unlikely to play in 2010.
Brownlow Medal Hope: Simon Black
Leading Goal Kicker: Brendan Fevola
Wednesday, February 17, 2010
Adelaide Crows Season Preview
Well, where to for the Adelaide Crows? The club has enjoyed a sustained period of reasonable success, without quite managing to take the final steps in reaching a Grand Final berth, or securing the Premiership Cup. They have consistently been one of the most disciplined and well structured organisations, both on and off the field. So what differences and improvements can propel the Crows forward in season 2010?
Forward Line:
Long considered a weakness - the Adelaide Crows look to finally have developed a promising mixture of forward-line players. The key forward that every club dreams of, Kurt Tippett, has arrived. After a few years of solid development, Tippett burst onto the wider-footballing public's radar last year - finishing the season with 55 goals to his name. He led the Crows for contested marks, and contest football, making him a deadly weapon both in the air, and at ground level. He's still a devloping player, so the Crows will be looking for further improvement from Tippett in 2010.
The older-brigade of Burton and Hentschel will be hoping for improved seasons, managing a mere 14 games between them during the 2009 AFL season. Patrick Dangerfield and Taylor Walker both look set for bigger years - and fringe players such as Douglas, Jacky an Petrenko will all be eyeing off a spot as a small forward. With McLeod, Goodwin and Edwards all likely to spend some of their rotations in the forward half, there is certainly the talent at their disposal.
Porplyzia, will again be a key component, and it looks as though he will he able to shake off his injury concerns and again play a key role in the forward line. His hands are amongst the best in the AFL, he demands and collects the ball, and his decision making in-close, and his goal sense make him a very dangerous player.
Key Player: Chris Knights
Knights is the bloke that has me genuinely excited about what he may achieve this season. After beginning his career as an outside runner with a penetrating, but inaccurate kicking style, he has transformed himself into a very complete player, being able to win contested ball more readily, and his penetrating boot is now capable of hurting sides regularly. He consistently kicks goals from outside 50m, and reminds this author of a slightly more inside, Nathan Eagleton. Just a very quick, very hard running player, who will hurt you time and time again in the forward half when given the space and time to create.
If Knights manages to take his game to another level this year, then watch out.
Midfield:
The Adelaide Crows midfield is looking very sharp too. Let's forget about the older brigade who'll still rotate through for a moment, and think about some other names. Scott Thompson, Bernie Vince and David McKay. These are 3 guys who are all capable of improving on their 2009 seasons, and all 3 are capable of becoming (or perhaps, continuing their stance as) A-grade midfielders. Thompson, the in and under player - but still capable in space, who'd I'd like to see spend more time resting forwards. Vince, the youngster whose comfortable in the thick of the action, or darting away outside and kicking a long 60m ball. McKay, the outside specialist, whose run and carry has been paramount to improving the speed of the Crows ball movement.
Dangerfield will be spending more time in the midfield, as potentially will Chris Knights. That's some more class. Then you have Doughty, Van Berlo, Symes, Cook, Sloane and Reilly as the working class midfielders who will come in, play their role with little fuss and generally just get the job done for the team. Every side needs these type of players, and in Cook and Sloane, the Crows have a couple of young guns who aren't afraid to work hard defensively and throw everything into the contest.
Key Player: Bernie Vince
Vince is just your atypical, inside-outside, modern day midfielder. He'll win the ball inside traffic, and create space through good hands, or quick acceleration. If he receives the ball in space, he'll use his pace to run and carry the ball, and end it with a penetrating kick. He's comfortable kicking goals from outside 50, and is also smart enough to play a role resting forward. He's the Crows answer to the your Judd's, Ablett's and Cooney's - however he probably has a more devastating field kick over distance than any of those guys.
Watch him continue to develop, and if you're a Super Coach fanatic, get on board.
Rucks:
So who is going to hold down the #1 and #2 ruck roles for the Crows in 2010? Ivan Maric has positioned himself well to make the #1 role his own, however he still probably hasn't quite come on as much as the Crows would have liked. Sure to be the conjecture of much debate over the 2010 season, is whether or not Kurt Tippett can spread his time between the F50, and in the ruck. His agility, contested ball work and skill level make him a tantalising prospect in the middle, but is his forward work more important to the Crows structure?
Sitting in the shed hoping to cement a place in the side are Brad Moran, Johnathon Griffin and James Sellar. Moran has shown some signs when he's been able to get on the park, but the fact remains that Griffin is still yet to arrive in any meaningful manner, and Sellar, whilst he played a role during the 2009 season, is probably going to be better suited elsewhere.
Shaun McKernan could be a wild card, but he probably lacks the height and body size to play a significant role, especially so early in his career.
Defenders:
The Adelaide Crows have been widely regarded as one of the better defensive units under coach Neil Craig, and having a look through their defensive options, it's no wonder why. Bock, arguably the best CHB the AFL has seen since the 90's who'll be hoping to overcome the shocking heel injury which cruelly ended his 2009 season. Rutten, the All Australian full back who is able to hold his own against the AFL's best power forwards. McLeod, Goodwin and Edwards - the old trio who will spend time in the back half, utilising their experience, decision making and skills. Johncock, who is coming off his best pre-season and looking in terrific shape.
Phil Davis and Shaun McKernan will be eyeing off a spot in the back line in place of the injured Andy Otten who has unfortunately suffered an ACL injury. Scott Stevens is another option, and could excel in this position, and it could also prove to be the role to revitalise Trent Hentschel's career. Locking down this position will be the key for the Crows, who have a terrific blend of tall and small defenders, ticking about every box you want from your back 6.
Key Player: Graham Johncock
Johncock is a very interesting player, a bit of an enigma if you will. He's played some great football over the years, both in the forward half and in the back line. He's a genuine talent, no doubt about it. He's also had his fair share of off-field issues, and after struggling at times over the past few years seems to have really matured and has prepared himself exceptionally well over the pre-season.
With McLeod aging, Johncock is the man to lead the run and carry and pin-point delivery from the back half. The Crows pride themselves of using quick ball movement, and if they are to again improve in this area, Johncock will be the key.
Conclusion:
It is an exciting year for all Adelaide Crows fans, but will they be able to take the next step? If they have a good run with injuries, and the old brigade can keep themselves on the park, in particular towards the business end of the season, they will be around the mark again. With AAMI Stadium providing significant home ground advantage, the Crows should be guaranteed another finals berth. How far they go may well depend greatly on the output of the 3 key players mentioned above. If Knights, Vince and Johncock can fire, if the Crows can find their ideal ruck combination, if the young guns in Dangerfield and Walker can come on.....
Finish: 3-6.
B & F Winner: Bernie Vince
NAB Rising Star Nominations: Shaun McKernan, Myke Cook.
Injured Players for Round 1: Brodie Martin - ACL, Andy Otten - ACL, Nathan Van Berlo - Back complaint (should be back by Rd 1 - monitor).
Brownlow Medal Hope: Bernie Vince
Leading Goal-kicker: Kurt Tippett
Forward Line:
Long considered a weakness - the Adelaide Crows look to finally have developed a promising mixture of forward-line players. The key forward that every club dreams of, Kurt Tippett, has arrived. After a few years of solid development, Tippett burst onto the wider-footballing public's radar last year - finishing the season with 55 goals to his name. He led the Crows for contested marks, and contest football, making him a deadly weapon both in the air, and at ground level. He's still a devloping player, so the Crows will be looking for further improvement from Tippett in 2010.
The older-brigade of Burton and Hentschel will be hoping for improved seasons, managing a mere 14 games between them during the 2009 AFL season. Patrick Dangerfield and Taylor Walker both look set for bigger years - and fringe players such as Douglas, Jacky an Petrenko will all be eyeing off a spot as a small forward. With McLeod, Goodwin and Edwards all likely to spend some of their rotations in the forward half, there is certainly the talent at their disposal.
Porplyzia, will again be a key component, and it looks as though he will he able to shake off his injury concerns and again play a key role in the forward line. His hands are amongst the best in the AFL, he demands and collects the ball, and his decision making in-close, and his goal sense make him a very dangerous player.
Key Player: Chris Knights
Knights is the bloke that has me genuinely excited about what he may achieve this season. After beginning his career as an outside runner with a penetrating, but inaccurate kicking style, he has transformed himself into a very complete player, being able to win contested ball more readily, and his penetrating boot is now capable of hurting sides regularly. He consistently kicks goals from outside 50m, and reminds this author of a slightly more inside, Nathan Eagleton. Just a very quick, very hard running player, who will hurt you time and time again in the forward half when given the space and time to create.
If Knights manages to take his game to another level this year, then watch out.
Midfield:
The Adelaide Crows midfield is looking very sharp too. Let's forget about the older brigade who'll still rotate through for a moment, and think about some other names. Scott Thompson, Bernie Vince and David McKay. These are 3 guys who are all capable of improving on their 2009 seasons, and all 3 are capable of becoming (or perhaps, continuing their stance as) A-grade midfielders. Thompson, the in and under player - but still capable in space, who'd I'd like to see spend more time resting forwards. Vince, the youngster whose comfortable in the thick of the action, or darting away outside and kicking a long 60m ball. McKay, the outside specialist, whose run and carry has been paramount to improving the speed of the Crows ball movement.
Dangerfield will be spending more time in the midfield, as potentially will Chris Knights. That's some more class. Then you have Doughty, Van Berlo, Symes, Cook, Sloane and Reilly as the working class midfielders who will come in, play their role with little fuss and generally just get the job done for the team. Every side needs these type of players, and in Cook and Sloane, the Crows have a couple of young guns who aren't afraid to work hard defensively and throw everything into the contest.
Key Player: Bernie Vince
Vince is just your atypical, inside-outside, modern day midfielder. He'll win the ball inside traffic, and create space through good hands, or quick acceleration. If he receives the ball in space, he'll use his pace to run and carry the ball, and end it with a penetrating kick. He's comfortable kicking goals from outside 50, and is also smart enough to play a role resting forward. He's the Crows answer to the your Judd's, Ablett's and Cooney's - however he probably has a more devastating field kick over distance than any of those guys.
Watch him continue to develop, and if you're a Super Coach fanatic, get on board.
Rucks:
So who is going to hold down the #1 and #2 ruck roles for the Crows in 2010? Ivan Maric has positioned himself well to make the #1 role his own, however he still probably hasn't quite come on as much as the Crows would have liked. Sure to be the conjecture of much debate over the 2010 season, is whether or not Kurt Tippett can spread his time between the F50, and in the ruck. His agility, contested ball work and skill level make him a tantalising prospect in the middle, but is his forward work more important to the Crows structure?
Sitting in the shed hoping to cement a place in the side are Brad Moran, Johnathon Griffin and James Sellar. Moran has shown some signs when he's been able to get on the park, but the fact remains that Griffin is still yet to arrive in any meaningful manner, and Sellar, whilst he played a role during the 2009 season, is probably going to be better suited elsewhere.
Shaun McKernan could be a wild card, but he probably lacks the height and body size to play a significant role, especially so early in his career.
Defenders:
The Adelaide Crows have been widely regarded as one of the better defensive units under coach Neil Craig, and having a look through their defensive options, it's no wonder why. Bock, arguably the best CHB the AFL has seen since the 90's who'll be hoping to overcome the shocking heel injury which cruelly ended his 2009 season. Rutten, the All Australian full back who is able to hold his own against the AFL's best power forwards. McLeod, Goodwin and Edwards - the old trio who will spend time in the back half, utilising their experience, decision making and skills. Johncock, who is coming off his best pre-season and looking in terrific shape.
Phil Davis and Shaun McKernan will be eyeing off a spot in the back line in place of the injured Andy Otten who has unfortunately suffered an ACL injury. Scott Stevens is another option, and could excel in this position, and it could also prove to be the role to revitalise Trent Hentschel's career. Locking down this position will be the key for the Crows, who have a terrific blend of tall and small defenders, ticking about every box you want from your back 6.
Key Player: Graham Johncock
Johncock is a very interesting player, a bit of an enigma if you will. He's played some great football over the years, both in the forward half and in the back line. He's a genuine talent, no doubt about it. He's also had his fair share of off-field issues, and after struggling at times over the past few years seems to have really matured and has prepared himself exceptionally well over the pre-season.
With McLeod aging, Johncock is the man to lead the run and carry and pin-point delivery from the back half. The Crows pride themselves of using quick ball movement, and if they are to again improve in this area, Johncock will be the key.
Conclusion:
It is an exciting year for all Adelaide Crows fans, but will they be able to take the next step? If they have a good run with injuries, and the old brigade can keep themselves on the park, in particular towards the business end of the season, they will be around the mark again. With AAMI Stadium providing significant home ground advantage, the Crows should be guaranteed another finals berth. How far they go may well depend greatly on the output of the 3 key players mentioned above. If Knights, Vince and Johncock can fire, if the Crows can find their ideal ruck combination, if the young guns in Dangerfield and Walker can come on.....
Finish: 3-6.
B & F Winner: Bernie Vince
NAB Rising Star Nominations: Shaun McKernan, Myke Cook.
Injured Players for Round 1: Brodie Martin - ACL, Andy Otten - ACL, Nathan Van Berlo - Back complaint (should be back by Rd 1 - monitor).
Brownlow Medal Hope: Bernie Vince
Leading Goal-kicker: Kurt Tippett
Welcome, to Grieve Sports Media!
This is a test-run for a potential web-based Sports Media company that I hope to unveil in the near future. This pilot blog will act as the staging grounds for a weekly Australian Rules ("AFL") match preview site.
The aim is to provide objective, up-to-date previews of every match on the weekend, the perfect tool for any AFL punters, Dream Team or Super Coach enthusiasts who require the highest quality, up-to-date information ahead of each weekend's fixtures.
The material published will be the views of each individual author who contributes, many of whom will have access to information beyond the average sports writer.
Please join us over the next few weeks as we preview the upcoming season, starting with the Adelaide Crows.
The aim is to provide objective, up-to-date previews of every match on the weekend, the perfect tool for any AFL punters, Dream Team or Super Coach enthusiasts who require the highest quality, up-to-date information ahead of each weekend's fixtures.
The material published will be the views of each individual author who contributes, many of whom will have access to information beyond the average sports writer.
Please join us over the next few weeks as we preview the upcoming season, starting with the Adelaide Crows.
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