There is no secret that MFC have more than a few needs & if things don’t turn expect a huge review of list & potential movement of some expendable “assets”..
1-2 needs that can be addressed in the inaugural mid season draft, with genuine upside to get ahead on a few that will potentially selected in Nov Draft. Below are targets that are currently under the MFC recruitment watch and 1-2 speculative picks that some keen observers feel SHOULD be:
= 1) Dillon O’Reilly (WAFL):
A Genuine Key FWD Prospect that has the potential ceiling to kick BAGS. Clean as can be, mobile at ground level due to being perfect modern fwd size (193cm) & is a great potential foil for what we have currently as he is very diff to Weids, Smith’s & TMac. This kid is ready to go & I prey that the MFC somehow get their hands on him - S/O Stephen O and has same sort of composed tough & contested nature of his old man, ball either gets plucked or grounded just doesn’t get outmarked - Mature 19yo that seems to have developed quicker than many imagined initially, was seen as having low ceiling which has been re-assessed in a BIG way!!!
(undoubtedly the equal best player MFC could most use on list right now & more so with eye on future & FWD stocks, impo)
=1) Marlion Pickett (WAFL):
Huge buzz about with Marlion now backing up what he’s delivered prev which is what recruiters want to see. Instant injection to MFC midfield rotation for mine, he’s a Tim Kelly clone that is perhaps a step quicker outside and half step slower inside but one that many clubs will be after if he continues his progression in off field and prep areas. X Factor Dees desp need & has low risk benefits as at worst he’d be a 10 week trial at best a 150 game JET!!!
2) Muhammad Saad (Coburg VFL):
Bit of a left field one here but make it known he’s on numerous radars.. Absolute raw electric pace that can even make his big bro look a step slow in first 5 steps - Also stands 10cm taller which adds to his repertoire. Has taken big strides in his reading of game & midfield fitness with time in middle this season - Can butcher it at times but if used correctly many think he can be a real weapon! Could be DEADLY as outside mid/wing & like Hunt - would play better in a side that has more than 1 speedster to use in tandem and link in bursts.
3) Sam Lowson (Coburg VFL):
A really interesting prospect that plays modern game perfectly, has great hands and wastes almost ZERO touches. Strong overhead and in first touch which is key, clean and composed with strong pressure potential that could lift to the level req quickly in AFL system, the base and talent are there and can see this guy having impact almost instantly. Has knocks but big upside! Cult figure alert - hair.. is all I’ll say!!!
4) Sam Fisher (Carlton VFL):
Genuine speedster that would be a handy addition if he continues to improve on recent outings. Pressure acts decision making much improved and will 100% be on an AFL list in 2020.
5) Cory Gregson (SANFL):
Former Cat who was close to being picked up LY but just missed out, however 2019 form suggests his body is as sound as it’s ever been and if stays fit would be an asset to any team needing a small fwd who can play mid minutes in small bursts. Clean and Smart - One id personally love to see given a crack at MFC. Think Lincoln Mccarthey - Step quicker & less brain snaps albeit with less raw talent and “freak” ability but saying that he’s got gifts too, not to be missed if he’s healthy - Clubs already lining up.
Others:
Mitch Hibberd (VFL)
Jye Bolton (WAFL)
Wil Hickmott (WAFL)
Luke Meadows (WAFL)
Jake Di Pasquale (Sorrento/Casey)
It is going to be very interesting to see what happens but there are a heap of Sydney Stack/Fritter/Kelly types around just needing that opportunity.. ripper draft class next year and if we do badly enough Rowell would be genuine DEADLY with Brayshaw and Oliver - imagine! But yes I’d rather we didn’t finish last also, but it’s still fun to picture! Can’t see us being anywhere near his range but who knows.
Cheers
Nudge
PS - This post was motivated by seeing the top 50 prospects post on afl.com so for more prospects and entails it’s a good read and has more info on many of the above.. ta —> https://m.afl.com.au/news/2019-04-17/midseason-rookie-draft-who-will-be-the-next-tim-kelly-or-kane-lambert