Get ready for an exciting week in the world of AFL Fantasy! The AAMI Community Series is our last glimpse into the upcoming season, and it's a crucial time for Fantasy coaches to make their final decisions.
The Fantasy Watchlist: Unlocking the Secrets of the Pre-Season
While the Opening Round provided some handy tips, the Community Series is where the real action begins. It's time to put our Fantasy teams to the test and see who shines.
So, let's dive into the key players and moments to watch out for this week:
Carlton vs. Geelong: Keep an eye on Jagga Smith and Tanner Bruhn, who are both making waves in Fantasy circles. Their performances could be the difference between a winning and losing team.
Sydney vs. Greater Western Sydney: Errol Gulden, the Swans' star, is an enticing option for coaches after his impressive display in the match simulation. But there are concerns over Jai Serong's job security and scoring potential. Riley Bice, on the other hand, had some standout moments in defence. And don't forget to watch the Giants' midfield, especially Clayton Oliver, who dominated in the match sim.
Brisbane vs. Gold Coast: This game is a Fantasy coach's dream, with plenty of rookie talent on display. Suns rookies Zeke Uwland and Leo Lombard are pushing for a spot, while Christian Petracca, the Suns' recruit, showed promise in his first outing. However, the absence of Noah Anderson is a concern. Wil Powell's role will also be interesting, especially with Matt Rowell sidelined. And the big question remains: will Keidean Coleman's forward role in the match sim satisfy Fantasy coaches?
Melbourne vs. Richmond: Sam Grlj, the most owned player across these teams, had a strong showing in the match sim. But will his fellow Tigers rookies, Josh Gibcus, Patrick Retschko, and Sam Cumming, follow suit? The role of Sam Lalor after a strong pre-season is also worth monitoring. Jack Steele, the Demons' recruit, locked in many teams with his performance, and Kysaiah Pickett and Latrelle Pickett shined. But the real question is, who will step up in Melbourne's midfield? Caleb Windsor, Harvey Langford, or Trent Rivers?
Western Bulldogs vs. Hawthorn: Connor Macdonald's stocks rose after the match sims, and he gets another chance to impress. The Bulldogs were missing key players, but Lachie Jaques put in a good performance at half-back. Joel Freijah's role with the Dogs' stars back is one to watch, and Connor Budarick is another player to keep an eye on. With some uncertainty over Hawthorn's midfield, Dylan Moore could emerge as an option.
St Kilda vs. Essendon: This game is a Fantasy goldmine! Sam Flanders and Mattaes Phillipou locked in many teams with their stellar performances last week. Darcy Parish, a popular pick, showed why he's a Fantasy favorite. Jye Caldwell is an enticing premium option, and Nasiah Wanganeen-Milera is highly owned this pre-season. Keep an eye on Archie Roberts as he spends more time in the midfield, and Jack Carroll had a great Fantasy role across half-back. As for the rookies, Dyson Sharp and Jacob Farrow impressed, but Sharp spent a lot of time forward.
Fremantle vs. Adelaide: Some Fantasy questions may be answered after this clash. Luke Jackson, the most popular pick, will have his role scrutinized if Sean Darcy returns. Crows ruckman Lachlan McAndrew is gaining popularity and should get another chance to shine. Caleb Serong and Jordan Dawson are popular premium options, and coaches will be curious to see how Josh Rachele performs with more midfield time. Brayden Cook has been training at half-back and played well on the wing.
North Melbourne vs. Collingwood: This game could provide some much-needed answers about the ruck position. Tristan Xerri and Darcy Cameron, two of the best, go head-to-head. Harry Sheezel, a popular option, is set to play as a midfielder. Colby McKercher is out with a broken finger, but Lachy Dovaston will be eager to impress. Nick Daicos, despite his early bye, is tempting coaches after his AAMI AFL Origin performance. Finn O'Sullivan is playing more in the midfield, and Angus Anderson could work his way into teams. Harvey Harrison is another Pie to watch.
West Coast vs. Port Adelaide: The final game of the AAMI Community Series features 12 players owned by more than 10% of coaches. New Eagles Deven Robertson, Willem Duursma, Josh Lindsay, and Cooper Duff-Tytler showed promise in the match simulation. Tom McCarthy and Harley Reid led the midfield. Harry Schoenberg and Jacob Newton are other Eagles to keep an eye on. Port's captain, Connor Rozee, proved his popularity with an outstanding match sim performance. Zak Butters is set to return, and Miles Bergman will be another player to watch. Will Will Brodie secure an early spot in the Power's midfield? Todd Marshall's late introduction to the match sim is a worrying sign for his job security.
Remember, these games are your last chance to see players in action before the real season begins. So, pay close attention, make those final adjustments, and good luck to all the Fantasy coaches out there!
And here's a thought to leave you with: Should Fantasy coaches be concerned about the forward role of Keidean Coleman, or is it a sign of things to come? Let's discuss in the comments!
