Best 18

[Carlos Danger 380]

B: A. Rance (Rich), J. Waite (Carl), M. Hurley (Ess)

HB: G. Broughton (Frem), S. Gilbert (SK), J. Sherman (WB)

C: D. Wells (NM), S. Mitchell (Haw), R. Tambling (Adel)

HF: P. Chapman (Geel), B. Staker (Bris), R. O'Keefe (Syd)

F: A. Wonaeamirri (Melb), G. Ablett (GC), C. Hitchcock (PA)

R: N. Naitanui (WC), D. Swan (Coll), D. Cross (WB)

Pick 2 - Gary Ablett (Gold Coast): Hands down, the best player in the competition today. In every element of AFL footy, Gary is elite. Was never part of the original plan to put him up forward but felt I had no other option with the quality of mids still available late in the draft. Was very impressed with how he fared playing up forward this year and grew up watching/idolising/being mesmerized by Gary Snr. The midfield is solid enough to clear it without Gary but rotations will still be on the cards, he wont stay at full forward the whole game.

Pick 19 - Dane Swan (Collingwood): Robbed of a Brownlow medal this year, way more deserving than Juddy. The perfect guy to build a midfield around and a bargain at pick 19. Possession magnet who is also very effective with his disposal, not afraid to push forward and kick a goal either.

Pick 22 - Paul Chapman (Geelong): Norm Smith medallist who rises to the occasion. Absolute workhorse who plays his heart out every game, tough as nails flanker who is a good shot at goal and capable of long ones. Can also play mid.

Pick 39 - Jarrad Waite (Carlton): Highly rate Waite, very versatile KPP who does a great job at either end of the ground. A player considerably under-rated outside of Carlton and has a lot of mongrel about him, which I like.

Pick 42 - Michael Hurley (Essendon): Developing player but very impressive in his first 2 years of AFL footy. Like Waite, very versatile and can hold his own at both ends of the ground. Will be player to watch out for in the next few years.

Pick 59 - Nic Naitanui (West Coast): Freak of nature. Still learning the game but the potential is unlimited, any ruckman who can rove his own tap, out-run opposition midfielders then kick a goal is somebody worth standing up and taking notice of. After the centre bounce, he is basically another gun midfielder - only taller.

Pick 62 - Sam Gilbert (St Kilda): Easily one of the best young defenders in the competition, very quick for his size and can shut down KPF's while also providing run off halfback. A steal at pick 62.

Pick 79 - Sam Mitchell (Hawthorn): At this stage, I had Ablett and Swan in the midfield and wanted a tough-nut to complete the set. Enter Sammy Mitchell. Love his hardness but he also has the elite mid skills. He goes in there to win his own ball with absolutely no consideration for his own well-being. Hard to believe after 78 picks, he wasn't selected.

Pick 82 - Daniel Cross (Western Bulldogs): Another mid hard to believe is still available at this stage of the draft, easily the best mid at the Bulldogs for mine. I'd take Cross over Cooney, Boyd or Griffen any day of the week, so at pick 82, absolute bargain. Cooney might have a Brownlow, but Cross has consistency.

Pick 99 - Greg Broughton (Fremantle): Like Hurley, still very young but a talent to watch out for in future years. Love his run off halfback, silky disposals and pace. Was my preferred playmaker option in defense and considered taking him earlier, worked out well that I didn't.

Pick 102 - Daniel Wells (North Melbourne): Yet another mid I couldn't believe was still available. Getting pretty obvious by now but I rate quality mids over any other position, especially if they can also kick goals. Games are won and lost in the midfield. Wells is perfect for the wing, he will get in there after the centre bounce quicker than most and would be well fed off Mitchell's hard-ball gets.

Pick 119 - Ryan O'Keefe (Sydney): Absolute gun, elite in the midfield or the forward line so another player on the list of mid/fwd rotations. With Chappy and O'Keefe on opposing flanks, the only problem mids will have is trying to decide which lead to honour.

Pick 122 - Brent Staker (Brisbane): Had probably his best season to date proving himself at the Lions in his first year. And at 196cm, he is the second tallest player after the ruckman, a perfect key position player at either end. Went with him up forward to add some height and because the strengths of the forwards I'd picked is they are all very talented crumbers (as well as providing solid leads, good contested marking and kicking goals). Staker was a perfect fit and very handy for a pick so late in the draft.

Pick 139 - Justin Sherman (Western Bulldogs): There were a few players I was keeping an eye on for the wildcard and Sherman eventually became the last name on the list. Interested in Sherman for similar reasons as Broughton, but with more experience and probably some more polish. Can also play mid and would be a massive part of setting up plays from defense. I could easily see Broughton and Sherman just one-twoing it from one end of the ground to the other.

Pick 142 - Richard Tambling (Adelaide): A player that came across as never really being pushed by the coach, no real drive. All the talent and tools to become one of the elite, but lacking direction and motivation. Saw more of what he is capable of in the past 2 years than I have his entire career leading up to it (as I'm sure Adelaide did). Like Wells, perfect for the wing, great pace rushing the mid and giving more options quicker. Cream of the Crow crop.

Pick 159 - Austin Wonaeamirri (Melbourne): The biggest reason I waited so long for a Melbourne selection is because there are so many guys on the list I'd be happy to have in the starting 22. It was too hard to decide, so I figured I'd let the cards fall as they may and see what's needed/what's available late in the draft. Aussie was a perfect fit for the forward pocket, the X-Factor and the massive crumbing skills. I put together a mid that is most likely to win the clearances and if the clearance is sloppier than it probably should be or there's a fumbled mark, Aussie is ready!

Pick 162 - Alex Rance (Richmond): A young player with bad injury woes. A serious gun in the making, if he can get his body right. A pretty handy pick at 193cm for a defender and a lot of pace. One of the better picks at Richmond that were over-looked by the others.

Pick 179 - Cameron Hitchcock (Port Adelaide): Was looking at another crumbing forward pocket type and initially came across Motlop, who was selected a couple of picks prior. Probably for the best, Hitchcock had an incredible first year at the Power and proved a lot of people doubting him on his size at AFL level wrong. Him and Aussie turned out to be great selections for the forward pockets with such late picks.

Summary:

All in all, there's a total of 7 premierships between the group, a tonne of GF experience combined with a few young players ready to prove their worth. The midfield is an extremely dominant combination, with fast wingers to run in and assist (if needed).

The forward line is very potent and it's hard to see my team being out-scored by any of the others, sure it lacks traditional KPF prestige but just putting the ball up forward will be enough. Strong leads, great accuracy in front of the big sticks and Ablett magic. What more could you ask for?

The defense is probably the weakest part of the team, not that it's poor, just not up to the standard of the midfield or forward line. Which doesn't matter if the ball keeps getting cleared from the mid and goals keep getting scored, as I said, I don't see this team being out-scored by any of the others. Any inside 50's in this defense will face massive pressure, if fumbled, the likes of Sherman, Broughton, Hurley and Gilbert will show exactly why they were selected.

I put together a team I think would continually get the job done (especially on the big stage) but also exciting to watch. Premierships and Friday Night Football is what this team is all about.

[DeeSpencer 26,082]

FB: J. Surjan (Port) N. Grima (NM) S. Hurn (WCE)

HB: J. Kelly (Geel) L. McPharlin (Fre) J. Adcock (Bris)

C: D. Thomas (Coll) S. Thompson (Adel) S. Hill (Fre)

HF: M. Morton (Rich) L. Henderson (Carl) D. Swallow (GC)

FF: A. Monfries (Ess) L. Franklin (Haw) A. Schneider (StK)

R: M. Jamar (Melb) J.P. Kennedy (Syd) R. Griffen (WB)

Captain - S. Thompson

Leadership group - Thompson, Thomas, Kelly, Jamar, Monfries, Adcock, Surjan

7. L. Franklin (Haw)

Find me a more exciting player in the competition? There isn't one when Buddy is on. Capable of kicking bags at full forward and also changing up and using his strong endurance and work rate. He hasn't had the strongest last two years in terms of figures but he's still the premier key forward in the competition.

14. M. Jamar (Melb)

Everyone has picked a quality ruckman. But how many of them can turn games of football and play whole seasons without getting clearly beaten. Besides big Sandilands I challenge anyone to find better than Jamar. He's strong and works hard and provides some muscle for the rest of the team.

27. S.Hurn (WCE)

An early pick up due to the nature of this draft but not undeserving. He's a big strong young man with a monster 70m kick with precision. Will provide run from the back half as well. Possible one of only a couple of WC players who can kick the footy and that's why he's gone early.

34. D.Thomas (Coll)

Pendlebury and Swan are class players, but Thomas is more dangerous by foot and with run than both of those and stepped into their league this year. Fantastic particularly in GF 1 and will never stop running. Doesn't shirk the hard stuff and a luxury to have on a wing.

47. S.Hill (Frem)

Excitement machine. Breaks lines, kicks goals and also wins his own footy. On track to be the most exciting wingman in the comp if he's not already. Will only be fitter and better in 2011.

54. D.Swallow (GC)

Played WAFL, VFL (top 5 league medal), best player in the under 18's as 17 year old. Fit and good build. He's more than ready to come into the AFL and will get all the opportunities. Clean hands, clean by foot and with the size to be able to play on a half forward flank. Another luxury.

67. R.Griffen (W Dogs)

Near elite midfielder in a near elite side. A bargain for pick 67. Never stops working, a good kick, wins his ball and tackles and has great speed. Fits my midfield perfectly. Really came of age in 2010.

74. N.Grima (Nth Melb)

If you don't think this guy is seriously good yet, you will know all about him by 2011. His 2010 was like Frawley of 2009. He's mature, strong and fit. Good user of the ball and can play on talls and smalls.

87. A.Monfries (Ess)

Went a bit high due to Essendon's depth, but this guy is all class and played some good footy in a bad side this year. Works extremely hard, is a great mark for his size and provides excellent forward pressure and can play the defensive forward role. Good leadership as well.

94. L.Henderson (Carl)

A perfect fit for CHF due to his size, endurance and work ethic. Will continue to improve after 2010 as this was his first full season of AFL (although he still spend some time in the VFL). He compliments Buddy brilliantly and I just can't wait to watch him this year.

107. S.Thompson (Adel)

Gun midfielder. Strong, hard and can use the football. Compliments my lighter bodies. Can even tag if required. Really is a top class midfielder and a bargain after 100 picks. Has been elected captain

114. L.McPharlin (Frem)

My wildcard selection due to the fact I think he is a premier CHB of the comp. Athletic, a good mark and rebounds the ball. Really controls games like a Nick Maxwell at times (but also takes a man). An experienced head in my young side.

127. J.Kelly (Geel)

Skilled, hard, fast, strong, can defend and attack. A perfect half back who can go into the middle. Premiership player.

134. J.Kennedy (Syd)

Controversial selection but this guys finals this year showed he is becoming a serious football. An extractor to go with Thompson to make sure my midfield and the skilled players outside him get to use the ball. Uses the ball within himself and another player coming off a breakout year.

147. A.Schneider (St.K)

Kicks both crumbing and marking goals, provides forward pressure and is a silky user when up the ground. Premiership player and grand final veteran.

154. J.Adcock (Bris)

Had injuries in 2010 but has played over 100 games and is still young. Hard as an axe, has shown he can do it in the midfield and another back flanker who can attack or defend. Courageous and skilled. He'll take a man if required and shut him down whilst still getting his 20 touches.

167. J.Surjan (Port)

Strong and hard defender who is a back pocket specialist. Good leader. Sound skills and will give it 100%.

174. M.Morton (Rich)

When I got to this pick I had to choose between a safer choice and going for someone who has shown talent in patches. At 23 Morton has had a breakout season with 40 odd goals, as well as played Coburg 2's. He's been labeled arrogant and lazy by fans. But late 2010 with it all on the line he started to show some form for the tigers. In the mold of Colin Sylvia and I believe he'll show his worth next year. You gotta have faith judges!

Philosophy

My team is very simple but adaptable. Despite featuring some top line talents my aim was to build a team of All Stars, I've build an All Start TEAM. I've crafted a group experienced enough to win the flag right now as well as winning for the next 5 years. Every player in this team can run, use the ball and most importantly win their own footy. There are a minimum of big ego's (probably Buddy but you can't deny how hard he works and Morton - who I think calmed down late this year). It's not about collecting a bunch of superstars who get the ball fed too them. All the best sides have guys who do a job and who work for each other. When judging my team I hope judges keep these points in mind. An exciting, hard working and brilliantly skilled side without a weakness

[Guest Baghdad Bob]

I'm trying to judge this seriously and so I'm asking for some direction.

Many have only one person who can ruck in their 18. In normal circumstances that is a huge disadvantage to a team but of course you only had 18 picks. Should we assume that another ruck or ruck alternative is on the bench? My judgment is we should but that for those that have a genuine alternative such as having Clark and Kreuzer must be given some credit.

How on earth can we give any credit to players like Toy and Patrick (and Swallow) who have never played an AFL game? I understand the issues with GCS not having depth of players to choose from but this is an issue for me as I've never seen them play and with Toy and Patrick we don't know where they would have gone in the draft.

Players like Kerr and Motlop are really hard to judge. Both are A grade verging on elite when going but haven't shown anything like that form for 2 years and the objective was to select a team for winning the 2011 flag. I know in the end it's a matter of judgment but if I judged Kerr's form on his pre injury days he'd be in the top 5 mids in the comp. I haven't seen that form for 2 years and think he's a marginal player at best who's fat with success and just playing out his days. Others that are really difficult to judge are Hartlett, Palmer (2009 form or 2010?), Barlow (is he like Rich?), Gray (who's difference between best and worst is extreme and who regularly shows both), Petterd (on his 6 games as a forward or his history before that) or Wonaeamirri (the one who won games in 2008 or the one who couldn't get a game in 2010) with Cox and Adcock being others.

I'm not looking for a debate on the individuals players skill, just which bit of history we look at so I can be consistent in judgement.

One thing is interesting. I'm not sure any of the teams would have beaten the Geelong, Collingwood, WC or Brisbane teams for flags in the last 10 years which is perhaps not surprising.

[DeeSpencer 26,082]

BB I don't think their is an easy answer. I think you just have to make judgments.

E25 has gone with multiple rucks so I'd give him a couple of bonus points there. But you have to look at where they will be playing the rest of the game as well.

With players coming off injury and form dips I think its fair to make whatever judgment you this is appropriate on how much below their best you think they are.

For the youngsters I think you can do some research on their VFL form and other form and then look at their role in the team. I'd say Toy was a top 5 draft pick and Patrick a rookie prospect.

I'm pretty confident my team would beat Collingwood but there wouldn't be much in it as Collingwood's grand final 22 comprised 22 very capable AFL players with no weakness in the side similar to mine. Anyone who thinks there team would smash a premiership side is ahead of themselves I believe.

[Guest Baghdad Bob]

BB I don't think their is an easy answer. I think you just have to make judgments.

E25 has gone with multiple rucks so I'd give him a couple of bonus points there. But you have to look at where they will be playing the rest of the game as well.

With players coming off injury and form dips I think its fair to make whatever judgment you this is appropriate on how much below their best you think they are.

For the youngsters I think you can do some research on their VFL form and other form and then look at their role in the team. I'd say Toy was a top 5 draft pick and Patrick a rookie prospect.

I'm pretty confident my team would beat Collingwood but there wouldn't be much in it as Collingwood's grand final 22 comprised 22 very capable AFL players with no weakness in the side similar to mine. Anyone who thinks there team would smash a premiership side is ahead of themselves I believe.

Agree with much of that but not with the youngsters. Darling was a top pick last year and was Butcher the year before. There is no way of projecting Toy IMO and even less with Patrick.

Just for the record I'm evaluating teams without names attached so I've no idea which is yours ATM. When I've done my evaluation I'll read the explanations and presentations where offered.

[Range Rover 1,935]

I'm trying to judge this seriously and so I'm asking for some direction.

Many have only one person who can ruck in their 18. In normal circumstances that is a huge disadvantage to a team but of course you only had 18 picks. Should we assume that another ruck or ruck alternative is on the bench? My judgment is we should but that for those that have a genuine alternative such as having Clark and Kreuzer must be given some credit.

How on earth can we give any credit to players like Toy and Patrick (and Swallow) who have never played an AFL game? I understand the issues with GCS not having depth of players to choose from but this is an issue for me as I've never seen them play and with Toy and Patrick we don't know where they would have gone in the draft.

Players like Kerr and Motlop are really hard to judge. Both are A grade verging on elite when going but haven't shown anything like that form for 2 years and the objective was to select a team for winning the 2011 flag. I know in the end it's a matter of judgment but if I judged Kerr's form on his pre injury days he'd be in the top 5 mids in the comp. I haven't seen that form for 2 years and think he's a marginal player at best who's fat with success and just playing out his days. Others that are really difficult to judge are Hartlett, Palmer (2009 form or 2010?), Barlow (is he like Rich?), Gray (who's difference between best and worst is extreme and who regularly shows both), Petterd (on his 6 games as a forward or his history before that) or Wonaeamirri (the one who won games in 2008 or the one who couldn't get a game in 2010) with Cox and Adcock being others.

I'm not looking for a debate on the individuals players skill, just which bit of history we look at so I can be consistent in judgement.

One thing is interesting. I'm not sure any of the teams would have beaten the Geelong, Collingwood, WC or Brisbane teams for flags in the last 10 years which is perhaps not surprising.

There's really no easy answer, Baghdad Bob. Go with your instinct.

But if it were me:

1) If there's no back-up ruckman (most of us don't have one) look at the quality of the first ruck in the team and also see if there are any mobile KPP's who can pinch-hit there.

2) I would think untried draft picks would be a risk going up against seasoned AFL footballers. Remember, this is a challenge for the 2011 flag, not a 'list building' exercise.

3) It is surely a mistake to select players coming off long-term injuries who may not even play (Barlow) or who have reputations yet chronically underperform (ie. Motlop).

4) It is highly likely you will see continued improvement from young guns with a season or two under their belt (ie. Gumbleton and Scully).

5) If it comes down to a line ball decision between teams, I would personally lean towards the side with greater midfield talent and depth.

Good luck!

Ps. My team is far superior to The Master's ...

Edited December 17, 2010 by Range Rover

[Roger Mellie 4,103]

BB - I assumed the following:

- There would be a ruck on the bench

- It would not be worth taking a player who was a) on the decline (eg.Kerr/Cox) or so injury prone or struggling with injury it's hard to see them on the park too often (Higgins/Petrie))

- If a player has had injuries but is capable of getting back to their best, then they should not be written off eg Petterd with his shoulder reco

- If a player is out of form, it is not necessarily permanent, but on the other hand there are players with talent who don't live up to their potential.

- The player's potential within the new team. Eg. Gumbleton might be a player with half decent delivery into the forward line and decent support from his forwards

These are just my own assumptions and how i rationalised my picks.

I have no idea how you go about untried players although that was always going to happen with GC.

I suppose with players like Petterd and Wonna, you just have to make a call

[titan_uranus 25,043]

I think that makes 6/10 final team lists posted.

With the D'land server change and downtime we might need to extend the teams deadline to midday Friday 17/12 and the judges deadline into next week say Tuesday 21/12 midnight.

Thanks.

I needed to ask Demetriou for extra time anyway.

[Range Rover 1,935]

Bagdhad Bob (and other judges) - there's a total of ten teams and I still think one or two haven't posted yet. Trengove is one who's final team sheet I don't see ... Some teams (High Tower's and mine) are on the previous page.

[H_T 3,049]

Others that are really difficult to judge are Hartlett, Palmer (2009 form or 2010?), Barlow (is he like Rich?), Gray (who's difference between best and worst is extreme and who regularly shows both), Petterd (on his 6 games as a forward or his history before that) or Wonaeamirri (the one who won games in 2008 or the one who couldn't get a game in 2010) with Cox and Adcock being others.

I'm not looking for a debate on the individuals players skill, just which bit of history we look at so I can be consistent in judgement.

BB - I assumed the following:

- There would be a ruck on the bench

- It would not be worth taking a player who was a) on the decline (eg.Kerr/Cox) or so injury prone or struggling with injury it's hard to see them on the park too often (Higgins/Petrie))

ArggH! I just like to re-iterate my stance on Dean Cox. Where is the emoticon banging his head against the wall when you need it !

Dean Cox played all 22 games in 2010. He finished 4th in the B&F in 2010. He is not in decline but in his prime (at 29 - I should be a poet!) He was not injured or injury prone based on 2010 and has been on the park all year. It is his 3rd best finish in the B&F since debut. (Read stats on previous page confirming his 2010 season is equal to that of his season in 2005 ~!)

Put. To. Rest.

PS. Jesse White can also pinch hit in ruck !

[Deestroy All 14,266]

I've developed a groundbreaking scientific method that allows my ruckman - and every other player - to run all day without any fatigue. So don't worry about my ruck stocks Bob.

[DeeSpencer 26,082]

ArggH! I just like to re-iterate my stance on Dean Cox. Where is the emoticon banging his head against the wall when you need it !

Dean Cox played all 22 games in 2010. He finished 4th in the B&F in 2010. He is not in decline but in his prime (at 29 - I should be a poet!) He was not injured or injury prone based on 2010 and has been on the park all year. It is his 3rd best finish in the B&F since debut. (Read stats on previous page confirming his 2010 season is equal to that of his season in 2005 ~!)

Put. To. Rest.

PS. Jesse White can also pinch hit in ruck !

22 games 4th in the B+F in the wooden spoon team. Should be awarded to Cam Bruce award for consistent mediocrity. He's finished judges, you know it!

PS Jesse White is a big girl.

[H_T 3,049]

22 games 4th in the B+F in the wooden spoon team. Should be awarded to Cam Bruce award for consistent mediocrity. He's finished judges, you know it!

PS Jesse White is a big girl.

At least I can laugh at this post. You know Cox, and I know Cox. You can't take the AA out of him. The guys a gem. Despite playing for the Weagles. And Jesse might sound like a girls name, but he can play, oh yeah, he can play. ref: Paul Roos.

[DeeSpencer 26,082]

At least I can laugh at this post. You know Cox, and I know Cox. You can't take the AA out of him. The guys a gem. Despite playing for the Weagles. And Jesse might sound like a girls name, but he can play, oh yeah, he can play. ref: Paul Roos.

I heard Roos decided to retire when Jesse was his best option at full forward. When you picked White I was hoping it was Mitchell.

[H_T 3,049]

I heard Roos decided to retire when Jesse was his best option at full forward. When you picked White I was hoping it was Mitchell.

That's funny, I heard Longmire beg and plead Roosy for his job, when Jesse was destined for Full Forward.... .

It's amazing what you hear these days.

[titan_uranus 25,043]

Still waiting on Trengove's team, I think?

[Guest Baghdad Bob]

Baghdad Bob Judgments

Let me just say that this was no easy task and I suspect many will question my opinion after they have seen the results. But having said that I’ve made an attempt to do this properly as it seems to me that a great deal of effort has gone into the game.

I also thought I’d try and explain my reasoning. First of all I had to take personalities out of the game so I transferred the teams to a spreadsheet, removed the names of the coaches and had someone scramble the order so as far as I could I didn’t know whose team was whose. Thankfully I didn’t take any notice of the discussion until invited to judge. I did know HT’s and E25 teams though.

My first task was to set the objective of selection which was to win the 2011 GF. In order to win a flag I think there are some things which most of the past winners have had including:

1. Games experience

2. Elite players

3. Good defense

4. Balance

5. A power forward is a big advantage

6. A dominant midfield.

7. Few if any weaknesses.

So I evaluated all teams using these measures. What became evident is that using the selection format it was very difficult to achieve all this particularly with the addition of GCS.

High Tower: Low on games experience with about 1700 and only 6 players who have played 100 games but solid midfield and a good defense and ruck combination. Has pace, solid bodies and a good mix of inside and outside players. Frawley was a mystery to me at pick one and key forwards are a problem. Am I also the only one who thinks Pav is fading a bit. BTW HT, I liked Cox and thought he was an incredibly good pick up so late. Few if any players gave concern given the criteria.

Deez Nutz: Wow, what a team of mids!! A dominant midfield goes a long way to winning flags and Swan, Ablett, Mitchell, Cross supported by Wells and Chapman is some group. But sadly I thought that was where this team finished shown by the fact that Ablett was named at FF. Hell, the leagues best mid named at FF because the team has nobody else? Not sold on Naitanui as I think as the only big man he’d be monstered by more mature bodies. Questionable selections were Wonaeamirri and Rance who struggled to get games for their clubs last year. Reasonable games experience and 10 players with 100 games.

Roger Mellie: Low end games experience (about 1700) and 9 players with 100 games or more but there was little to excite in this team. Roughead and Pod (who I rate as a flat track bully doing most of his damage at Geelong in big wins) don’t inspire up forward and the midfield falls off quickly after Selwood and Mundy. Reasonable defense and good solid flankers but all teams seemed to have that. Not many weaknesses but Melksham struggled to make a mark (but showed a lot of promise) and Krakoeur but I cut slack to GCS players. This team was solid but seemed to lack the elite and X factor associated with GF teams.

Trengove: I liked this team. Good balanced midfield with a mix of pace and inside players, best ruck in the competition to give them first use, a fair backline (assuming Glass plays good footy) and a couple of key forwards that would worry most others. Second top games experience and 11 players with 100 games or more. Patrick is a real worry and I think could have been replaced by a lot of other GC players but this was the only real downside. Good elites with Harvey, Montagna, Brown and Sandilands and these players were spread nicely through the team.

Destroy All: I also really liked this team. Midfield is elite with Judd, Boak, Deledio, Dal Santo and Vince and a solid if not exceptional spine. It’s nicely experienced with about 2100 games and no weak players. The only worry I would have is a forward structure with three talls who aren’t all that mobile but that’s about it. I don’t rate Motlop but there is no denying his talent and there is elite talent with Judd leading the pack.

Range Rover: Most experienced of the teams with 2228 games and 10 players with 100 plus but that was about where it ended for me. Key backs were poor with Lake a standout but Goddard at CHB worries me as he doesn’t play there for his club and is a HB sweeper. Beyond him it was hard to see who could play there. Midfield seemed a bit thin to me with Bartel not playing there much for his club and Murphy the only other quality genuine mid. Lots of flakiness in this team with Brennan and Fevola who can win or lose you games on a regular basis.

The Master: Low on experience with only about 1700 games but 10 with more than 100. Midfield is a bit shallow with only Thomson for inside work but a lot of outside run. Key backs solid but lacking any class and Franklin up forward a great acquisition. A balanced solid team but not much to put it ahead of others.

Eth38: About 1900 games experience and only 7 players with more than 100 games. When I looked at the team I just wondered where it distinguished itself from the rest. Cloke and Walker don’t excite as key forwards and the midfield seemed thin on depth. Key backs of Pears and Garland seem very inexperienced and would get taken to the cleaners by a couple of Reiwoldts. Mumford is good in the ruck and Hayes and Hodge clear standouts.

Ox 5: Put this forward line with DN’s mids and you’d have a win wouldn’t you. Jurrah and a couple of Reiwoldts make a wonderful forward line and when coupled with a good midfield of Barlow, Black, Higgins and Kerr you’d worry a lot of others. This team has about 1900 games of experience but only 6 100 gamers which was low but it also had only 4 players with less than 50 games which as the least of any others. Key backs are solid and good balance was achieved. I need to say I assumed both Higgins and Kerr were somewhere near their best. Both have been cruelled by injury in the last few years. If you assumed they won’t return to somewhere near their best the midfield is clearly not that strong.

E25: I like evaluating this team because I know I’ll get some cryptic putdown because it didn’t win. But it was good. It is very inexperienced and you’d guess that because E25 loves youth and rates it and his ability to judge it which is fair enough and fun. It only has about 1550 games experience and 7 players with 100 games or more but in its favour it has a lot of flexibility and X factor. The midfield is good with Pendlebury and Goodes being the clear standouts and players I really rate but I reckon it falls off a bit because although Martin shows a huge amount he isn’t yet up with the best. Palmer, Hartlett and Cunnington are all young with Palmer struggling to hold a place in 2010 (and a terrible kick to boot) and Hartlett unable to put games together and therefore be evaluated. Cunnington played a lot of footy and was serviceable and then there is Toy, but who can say about him? In his first year he maybe a Cunnington or he may be a Rich. I rate Morris highly as a KD and there is lots of flexibility with Goodes, Kreuzer, Clark and Ryder. Assuming Goodes plays midfield I don’t think there are too many of these players. The other thing I like about this team is players like S Johnson, Rioli and Sylvia give it some real punch. What holds it back for me is there are too many players with question marks – Toy, Hartlett, Palmer and Cunnington. It’s clearly a team for the future.

So my ratings at the end of the day:

1st Destroy All

2nd Trengove

3rd Ox 5

4th E25

5th HT

This was no easy task and I understand why those who miss out will all have reasons why I’ve underestimated their teams. But we are in the opinion business and this was my opinion. I’ll be fascinated to see how the other judges rate them.

Well done everyone, I wish I’d joined in rather than been a judge, it would have been easier and more fun.

[e25 5]

Happy with that.

Didnt really bother with a write-up because I know most won't agree with my views on some of the players, or even the way a side be structured, with flexibility & positioning.

I absolutely love guys like Hartlett, Toy and Cunnington & have no fear they'll all be top-liners.

Also the fact the goal posts have moved a little because my personal criteria for choosing the team had more of an eye to the future than others.

But I really appreciate the depth of your analysis BB.

Nice work. Thanks.

Ps. Kicking myself I didn't take Fyfe instead of Palmer.

I instantly regretted it & had Fyfe pencilled in, but I felt like I should aim for more "proven" talent in the eyes of others.

I agree Palmer's kicking is a massive issue, but about the only one & if he can improve that he'll be very very good.

Edited December 19, 2010 by e25

[Guest Baghdad Bob]

Happy with that.

Didnt really bother with a write-up because I know most won't agree with my views on some of the players, or even the way a side be structured, with flexibility & positioning.

I absolutely love guys like Hartlett, Toy and Cunnington & have no fear they'll all be top-liners.

Also the fact the goal posts have moved a little because my personal criteria for choosing the team had more of an eye to the future than others.

But I really appreciate the depth of your analysis BB.

Nice work. Thanks.

Ps. Kicking myself I didn't take Fyfe instead of Palmer.

I instantly regretted it & had Fyfe pencilled in, but I felt like I should aim for more "proven" talent in the eyes of others.

I agree Palmer's kicking is a massive issue, but about the only one & if he can improve that he'll be very very good.

I reckon if it had been me Michael Johnson, Roger Hayden and Paul Duffield would have been considerations from Freo.

Others that missed out that surprised me were Johncock, MATTHEW LEUENBERGER, Power, Ball, D Beams, H Shaw, O'Brien, Fletcher, Corey, McIntosh, Moloney, K Cornes and R Shaw amongst others.

[e25 5]

I had Leuenberger on my list from Brisbane, but he was too much of a ruckman.

I was very keen on Phil Davis at Adelaide, but had a feeling I'd need to take a big from the Lions so held back.

Ryder is versatile, but Fletcher wouldve suited my side now.

He only has another year in him though & I took a longer term view.

Michael Johnson I thought about, but again, can't have too many talls.

My focus was on

- getting enough talls, but not too many

- versatility to switch the side up & create favourable matchups

- guys that could create drive out of defense

- guys that could deliver it into the forward line & create play

- creativity

- having guys that could switch into the ruck

Actually, I'll copy that into my final team post. That will do.

[Deestroy All 14,266]

Thanks for the effort and the input, BB. Cheque is in the mail.

[DeeSpencer 26,082]

The Master: Low on experience with only about 1700 games but 10 with more than 100. Midfield is a bit shallow with only Thomson for inside work but a lot of outside run. Key backs solid but lacking any class and Franklin up forward a great acquisition. A balanced solid team but not much to put it ahead of others.

Not meaning to have a go but thought I'd correct this so it doesn't become a recurring theme. I've got Josh Kennedy for that purpose and if needed Kelly and Swallow can help on the flanks. Dale Thomas and Griffen also both win a lot of their own ball.

[titan_uranus 25,043]

I've done most of my analysis, I'll probably post it tomorrow or Tuesday as I need to write it up.

BB seems to have gone a bit deeper than me but I think I can justify my choices pretty well anyway.

[Trengove 0]

Didnt bother getting onto this earlier because i just couldnt be assed.

B: Nick Maxwell (Coll) Darren Glass (WCE) Cale Hooker (Ess)

HB: Grant Birchall (Haw) Kelvin Moore (Rich) Jack Grimes [VC](Melb)

C: Domenic Cassisi (Port) Jarred McVeigh (Syd) Leigh Montagna (StK)

HF: Brent Harvey (Nth) Jonathan Brown[C] (Bris) Travis Varcoe (Gee)

F: Liam Patrick (GC) Kurt Tippett (Adel) Jeff Garlett (Carl)

R: Aaron Sandilands (Freo) Matthew Boyd (WB) Brad Sewell (Haw)

4. Trengove - Sandilands (Freo)

In retrospect given how hard i found it to pick a CHB i may have chosen to fill that position first, but as a clear standout and importantly consistent ruckman i cant be displeased.

17. Trengove - J Brown (Lions)

Best available forward and captain of the side

24. Trengove - K.Tippett (Adel)

At this stage i was still building a side for the next 3 years, and although he had an ordinary year in 2010 and is clearly a step down from the likes of Jack Riewoldt, is one of the best prospective KPFs around

37. Trengove - D.Glass (WCE)

He has slipped off the radar in the last few years coinciding with the slide of the eagles down the ladder. A traditional Full Back who may not dominate like a Frawley, but in a team which can more aptly apply pressure in the midfield than the current weagles i'd hope that his influence would return to his golden days.

44. Trengove - K.Moore (Rich)

Undoubtedly the Richard Tambling pick of the draft. I was very caught up in filling the spine of my team and was sure that All Australian Bock would slide through to me - and when he was snaffled i was so intent on picking a CHB i choose Moore. Obviously a very underrated player in general, but in my opinion as a traditional CHB i rate him as easily one of the top 8 in the competition. Fantastic at bringing the ball to ground in a one on one situation and makes every contest; the main requirements of my CHB. I would always have been happy to have Kelvin in my team, but in hindsight perhaps at pick 174 and not 44.

57. Trengove - J.Grimes (Melb)

We all know what he is capable of - even in our current football season, let alone his potential for the next 3 years. Stoked to get him at pick 57. Having met him a few times i have no doubt that, even despite his age and inexperience, he would be an excellent vice captain behind big brown.

64. Trengove - B.Harvey (Nth)

Very contentious; given i had resisted picking a number of players to this stage due to their age; but the list of north melbourne had very few standouts and ultimately i couldnt resist. I know his career at North will not last these 3 years, but if he was in my team i'd have him play off the bench/half forward line as an impact player. Would lead my inside 50's and potentially kick 2 or 3 too.

77. Trengove - L.Montagna (St.K)

I rate him as one of the top 5 midfielders in the game, at pick 77 well, wow. Helped make up for the Kelvin pick.

84. Trengove - M.Boyd (W B'dogs)

As i think E25 said, as soon as one (D. Cross) went, the other was going to go too. Boyd was my favored pick at the Dogs anyway so i again i was happy i managed to snag him. Fantastic at dishing out little hand passes from the congestion.

97. Trengove - B.Sewell (Haw)

Was keen on Burgs for this pick, concentrating on picking the best available midfielders, but i still rate Sewell as an exceptional midfielder - Good pace, great work rate and reasonable disposal. Should be just hitting the prime of his career.

104. Trengove - D.Cassisi (Port)

Not a fan, but Boak is the only port player than i am a fan of. I dont mind some of their defensive options, but given i still had to pick players from the defensively strong sydney and collingwood, i decided to use my pick on a port midfielder, the only 2 options available being Cassisi and Pearce for their pace and kicking abilities. I chose Cassisi, even despite his age, because i felt he is more consistent then Pearce.

117. Trengove - T.Varcoe (Geel)

Fantastic year, really blossomed into a fine running forward this year, given my 2 high towers in Brown and Tippett up forwards i was really keen on getting a bit of running ability into my forward line and was very pleased when i discovered Varcoe was still on the market.

124. Trengove - N.Maxwell (Coll)

I hate maxwell. I hate most people at collingwood. But i had to choose one of them. He can rot in my back pocket.

137. Trengove - J.McVeigh (Syd)

Hugely hot and cold player. When he's not on he struggles to make any contribution to the game at all. But on conversely when he Is on, he can rip a game apart. A ball hungry goal kicking midfielder. A poormans version of Colin Sylvia.

144. Trengove - G.Birchall (Haw*)

Birch is young and enthusiastic. Inconsistent but his bad games arnt the worst going around. When he gets going he becomes a very handy rebounding player and i consider him a positive inclusion into my team.

157. Trengove - C.Hooker (Ess)

Neither here nor there, options were very limited. I was originally going to choose Melksham as my midfielder and one of the Port boys as my back pocket but decided that Cassisi had more to offer at this stage than Melksham. Hooker is serviceable, just.

164. Trengove - L.Patrick (GC)

I really liked Patrick in the games he played for the Gold Coast in the VFL this year. i know the VFL is hugely different standard to AFL, but my two forward pockets i wanted players with the "X factor" and Patrick at least has that. Great leap and turn of pace, who's to say that if he gets his chance he wont have a touch of magic.

177. Trengove - J.Garlett (Carl)

Jeffy Garlett and Chris Yarran, would have been happy with either, watched Yarran absolutely destroy it in the VFL Semi's(?) last year, but he hasnt quite found his feet at AFL level yet - thus Garlett was obviously my favored pick to round out my team. Pace and excitement which is want i want around the feet of the two hulking forwards.

[H_T 3,049]

Baghdad Bob Judgments

Very good assessment BB. Well done. I hope you can participate if we can do it again.

I also picked accordingly with an eye down the track.

I think all participants should recognise the amount of effort on your assessment. Much appreciated.