This, along with the Richmond v Collingwood blockbuster tomorrow afternoon, are absolutely high-quality games of the round.

Sydney and Geelong are yet to drop a match, and the winner could find themselves on top of the AFL ladder come the end of Round 4.

Sydney have done what they needed to do against Greater Western Sydney and Gold Coast in the opening two weeks, but flexed their premiership muscle against North Melbourne last weekend. Trailing at half time, the Swans booted 11 goals in the third quarter to set up the win at Blundstone Arena. Sydney welcome back premiership forward Mitch Morton for his first game since the decider against Hawthorn last season, while Dane Rampe returns to the side at the expense of Andrejs Everitt and unlucky midfielder Craig Bird.

Full preview and Discussion Thread =>

When: Friday April 12, 8:40PM
Where: Pattersons Stadium

Forecast: Cloudy, 27 degrees
Sportsbet: Fremantle $1.45, Essendon $2.80

BigFooty Gameday Thread ->

FREMANTLE
Vote for Freo on Facebook ->
FB: Lee Spurr, Zac Dawson, Michael Johnson
HB: Nick Suban, Luke McPharlin, Danyle Pearce
C: Tendai Mzungu, Ryan Crowley, Clancee Pearce
HF: Hayden Ballantyne, Matthew Pavlich, Nathan Fyfe
FF: Kepler Bradley, Chris Mayne, Michael Walters
R: Jonathon Griffin, David Mundy, Stephen Hill
I/C: Cameron Sutcliffe, Paul Duffield, Michael Barlow, Matt de Boer
EMG: Hayden Crozier, Tom Sheridan, Jack Hannath

IN: Hayden Ballantyne
OUT: Hayden Crozier (omit.)

ESSENDON
Vote for Essendon on Facebook ->
FB: Michael Hibberd, Cale Hooker, Dustin Fletcher
HB: David Myers, Jake Carlisle, Courtenay Dempsey
C: Dyson Heppell, Jobe Watson, Brendon Goddard
HF: Brent Stanton, Stewart Crameri, Travis Colyer
FF: Alwyn Davey, Patrick Ryder, Michael Hurley
R: Tom Bellchambers, Ben Howlett, Heath Hocking
I/C: Nick Kommer, David Zaharakis, Jake Melksham, Elliott Kavanagh
EMG: Jackson Merrett, David Hille, Leroy Jetta

IN: Elliott Kavanagh, Travis Colyer
OUT: Mark Baguley (ankle), Jackson Merrett (omit.)

Snapshot
Both sides enter this high-stakes encounter without a loss to their name after two rounds of football. Essendon sit on top of the ladder after a percentage-boosting 148 point victory over Melbourne last Saturday night, to go with their six goal win over the Crows at AAMI Stadium in Round 1. Fremantle are in fourth spot after victories over West Coast and the Western Bulldogs. The winner of tonight’s clash will sit on top of the ladder going into the remainder of Round 3.

Survival of the stingiest
Defensive. It’s a word that is becoming more and more prevalent in AFL football. A word that is seen next to Ross Lyon in the football dictionary, a word that usually relates to victory if done correctly. Now, ‘defensive’ and Essendon surprisingly go hand-in-hand so far in 2013. Essendon are not only on top of the ladder because of their mammoth score they kicked last week, but also because they are restricting their opposition in the backline. Melbourne scored a paltry 5.6.36 last weekend, which pleased coach James Hird to no end. A week earlier, the Adelaide forward line was restricted to 11.16.82. It is clear that the Bombers have done their homework over the pre-season, and it was obvious in the NAB Cup too, with sides having difficulty scoring against Essendon throughout the pre-season competition.

Lyon has been affiliated with three AFL teams in the past 10 seasons. Sydney, St Kilda and now Fremantle. It is no coincidence that each of these three sides are heralded as supremely defensive teams of their era. The Dockers are masters of choking the opposition, and with quality defenders in Luke McPharlin, Michael Johnson and even Zac Dawson, I very much doubt we will see Essendon score half as freely as they were allowed to last weekend. Whoever can restrict the opposition more tonight could end up singing the song, and it could get ugly.

Midfield depth
Both Fremantle and Essendon run deep with their midfields. The Dockers boast quality players such as Brownlow Medal fancy Nathan Fyfe, clearance king David Mundy, ball-magnet Michael Barlow and explosive players like Clancee Pearce, Stephen Hill and Nick Suban, among others.

The Bombers have, in the space of one pre-season, gone from being horribly injury-riddled to having almost the best centreline depth in the league. Expect Jobe Watson to go head-to-head with Mundy, while Brendon Goddard could find himself on one of Ryan Crowley or Tendai Mzungu. But even if the likes of Goddard or Brent Stanton are nullified, they have other options. Nick Kommer has started his first season in the AFL well, while highly-rated youngsters Elliott Kavanagh, Jake Melksham and Travis Colyer will all be on show at Subiaco.

SuperCoach
Despite losing his DPP status, Matthew Pavlich was still a great selection for a fantasy forward line in 2013. From his first two games, he has averaged 78 points, not what you would want from someone priced at $593,900. If you have Pavlich, then you may consider trading him out while his value is still high, as his price is sure to drop come the end of Round 3.

His 2012 season was a write-off, but David Zaharakis is starting to hit his best form again. At $472,900, he was a name that many fantasy coaches would’ve considered. His average so far in 2013 is 65.5, which includes his Round 1 score of 28 when he started as the substitute. In the rout against Melbourne, he put up a total of 103 points, and needs to score 146 points or more tonight to avoid dropping in price. If he doesn’t, which is likely, he could be one to jump on next week, but watch his form tonight if you’re considering him.

History
Since 2000, Fremantle and Essendon have played 19 times. From left to right, this is the result of each match since the start of the millenium.

E – E – E – FR – E – FR – E – E – E – E – FR – E – FR – E – E – FR – FR – FR – E

Overall
Fremantle: 7/19
Essendon: 12/19

Fremantle home game (Patersons Stadium)
Fremantle: 6/10
Essendon: 4/10

Essendon home game (Etihad Stadium)
Fremantle: 1/9
Essendon: 8/9

Prediction
This should be a quality match with finals-like intensity. Essendon have won two of the past five matches against the Dockers at Subiaco Oval, but I can’t see them getting over the top of FREMANTLE this time.

Margin: 25.

First goalkicker: Michael Walters.

When: Saturday March 29, 7:45PM
Where: Metricon Stadium

BigFooty Gameday Thread

GOLD COAST

Gold Coast Board Gameday Thread
FB: Joel Wilkinson, Matthew Warnock, Tom Murphy
HB: Dion Prestia, Rory Thompson, Greg Broughton
C: Matt Shaw, Gary Ablett, Jarrod Harbrow
HF: Harley Bennell, Charlie Dixon, Brandon Matera
FF: Luke Russell, Sam Day, Steven May
R: Zac Smith, Karmichael Hunt, David Swallow
I/C: Aaron Hall, Jaeger O’Meara, Jared Brennan, Michael Rischitelli
EMG: Maverick Weller, Jack Hutchins, Kyal Horsley

NEW: Jaeger O’Meara

ST KILDA

St Kilda Gameday Thread
FB: Jason Blake, James Gwilt, Dylan Roberton
HB: Jarryn Geary, Tom Simpkin, Sam Gilbert
C: Jack Newnes, Lenny Hayes, Nick Dal Santo
HF: Arryn Siposs, Nick Riewoldt, Terry Milera
FF: Stephen Milne, Beau Maister, Rhys Stanley
R: Ben McEvoy, David Armitage, Jack Steven
I/C: Ahmed Saad, Tom Hickey, Clint Jones, Farren Ray
EMG: Nathan Wright, Trent Dennis-Lane, Tom Lee

Forecast: Possible shower, 28 degrees
Sportsbet: Gold Coast $3.25, St Kilda $1.36

Snapshot
All eyes will be on Gold Coast throughout their third season in the AFL as they aim to make a big improvement with kids turning into young men. The Suns notched one victory from the NAB Cup, defeating Hawthorn by a point after the siren in the tri-series. St Kilda had a relatively strong pre-season campaign, winning three games out of four.

Stop him at all costs
There is no greater match-winner than Gary Ablett in the AFL, and the St Kilda match day committee will have spent hours trying to figure out how to curb his influence. In Round 2 last season, Ablett was terrific, picking up 40 disposals and kicking two goals. However, in their return match, Ablett didn’t look interested, collecting just 20 touches. With Clinton Jones and Farren Ray in the side, surely one of them will be asked to tag the Brownlow Medalist, and you would think that the other will be thrown onto the electrifying Harley Bennell. Not much can be said about either two drawing the short straw here..

Nick Riewoldt caused the Gold Coast plenty of headaches in 2012. In Round 2, the Saints’ skipper had 21 disposals, took 11 marks and booted four majors in the massive win. Fast forward nine weeks, and he again had 21 touches, eight marks and 7.2, taking home the three Brownlow votes at Metricon Stadium. The Suns are expected to give young defender Rory Thompson the task of handling the champion forward, and if that fails, the task falls on the shoulders of Matthew Warnock, who is still having nightmares of big Roo.

New faces
One of the most-hyped youngsters to ever pull on footy boots will make his official AFL debut on Saturday night. Jaeger O’Meara has the rockstar name and, according to his captain Ablett, it won’t be long until he has a genuine presence to match. He is one of the favourites for the NAB Rising Star award in 2013, and all eyes will be on him on Saturday night. Also making their debut for the Suns are former Hawthorn defender Tom Murphy and Fremantle playmaker Greg Broughton.

At St Kilda, they will unveil former Docker Dylan Roberton in defence, while ruckman Tom Hickey will possess plenty of nervous energy as he takes on his old side for the first time after being traded to Moorabbin in the off-season.

Burning questions
Which Gold Coast youngsters will step up to the plate in 2013? We saw last season Harley Bennell, Dion Prestia and Steven May make significant inroads to successful AFL careers, but they need more help. It’s time for David Swallow, Sam Day, Brandon Matera, Zac Smith and more to become regular contributors and take that next step.

Can the Suns generate a winning score? Sam Day is sure to be a handful in years to come, but can he be the focal target up forward that the Gold Coast lack? May has shown signs, while Matera, Russell and Bennell have potential to be exciting goalkickers.

How will St Kilda’s depleted defence perform? There was a reason they chased Mitch Brown from West Coast so strongly, and with Sam Fisher going down with injury on the eve of the season, the Saints are relying on James Gwilt (188cm) and Tom Simpkin (21 games). Sam Gilbert and Jason Blake can offer support, but it might be the perfect night for the 196cm, 96kg Day to impose himself.

SuperCoach
Everyone is getting on the O’Meara train. At $115,900, he is one of the cheapest midfielders going around, but almost entrenched in Gold Coast’s best 22 means he could be one of your most valued players. The superstar in the making averaged 84 points from three full-length NAB Cup matches, and appears a bargain pick for every fantasy coach in the land. You’d be mad not to have him.

He’s still only young, but the man-mountain in Ben McEvoy looks ready to become one of the most important players in the AFL. St Kilda’s number one ruckman, he will relish having the smarts and competitiveness of Tom Hickey on board. With the former Sun giving him a chop-out, it gives McEvoy the chance to fill a hole in defence or go forward and kick a goal. He’s priced at $557,400, and his average in the NAB Cup over the full-length games was 71.5. Don’t fear though, as his SuperCoach average in his five years has increased every season, so expect a rise on his 104.2 from last year. A unique pick.

History
St Kilda have total ownage over the Gold Coast Suns, especially after 2012 in which they won both encounters by a combined 187 points.

Since 2000, Gold Coast and St Kilda have played three times. From left to right, this is the result of each game since the start of the millenium.

STK – STK – STK

Overall
Gold Coast: 0/3
St Kilda: 3/3

Gold Coast home game (Metricon Stadium)
Gold Coast: 0/2
St Kilda: 2/2

St Kilda home game (Etihad Stadium)
Gold Coast: 0/1
St Kilda: 1/1

Prediction
This should be a good game between two sides that will be around the same region on the ladder at the end of the season in my opinion. In an upset victory, i’m tipping the GOLD COAST to possibly be in the eight for the first time since their inception.

Margin: 10.

First goalkicker: Gary Ablett.

When: Saturday March 29, 4:40PM
Where: ANZ Stadium

BigFooty Gameday Thread

GREATER WESTERN SYDNEY

GWS Board Gameday Thread
FB: Adam Kennedy, Tim Mohr, Stephen Gilham
HB: Tomas Bugg, Phil Davis, Curtly Hampton
C: Will Hoskin-Elliott, Callan Ward, Lachie Whitfield
HF: Stephen Coniglio, Jeremy Cameron, Tom Scully
FF: Liam Sumner, Jonathon Patton, Devon Smith
R: Jonathan Giles, Adam Treloar, Toby Greene
I/C: Taylor Adams, Dean Brogan, Lachie Plowman, Dylan Shiel
EMG: Sam Frost, Rhys Palmer, Nathan Wilson

NEW: Lachie Whitfield, Lachie Plowman

SYDNEY SWANS

Swans Board Gameday Thread
FB: Rhyce Shaw, Heath Grundy, Nick Smith
HB: Martin Mattner, Ted Richards, Nick Malceski
C: Ben McGlynn, Daniel Hannebery, Lewis Jetta
HF: Kieren Jack, Sam Reid, Ryan O’Keefe
FF: Mike Pyke, Adam Goodes, Jude Bolton
R: Shane Mumford, Josh Kennedy, Jarrad McVeigh
I/C: Tony Armstrong, Dane Rampe, Luke Parker, Lewis Roberts-Thomson
EMG: Andrejs Everitt, Jed Lamb, Jesse White

NEW: Dane Rampe

Forecast: Mostly sunny, 25 degrees
Sportsbet: Greater Western Sydney $9.00, Sydney $1.06

Snapshot
Greater Western Sydney are turning two years old in this clash and face a stiff birthday as they face up against older brother and reigning premiers the Sydney Swans. In the newly dubbed ‘Battle of the Bridge’, the Swans are warm favourites, the shortest of Round 1, but are carrying plenty of underdone players into this clash, including Nick Smith, Martin Mattner and Shane Mumford. Missing from the premiership team of last year is Mitch Morton, Craig Bird and Alex Johnson, with Tony Armstrong, Ben McGlynn and rookie Dane Rampe coming into the side. The Swans put in the usual effort in the NAB Cup, while the Giants were impressive at times, giving every indication that majority of their young squad will be immune from second-year blues.

Top talent
The Giants held the first three selections in the National Draft last season, and two of them will take to the field in their first ever AFL game on Saturday night. Number one pick Lachie Whitfield is primed to hit the ground running, while talented defender Lachie Plowman, who was taken at selection number three, will also feature. The man in the middle, Jono O’Rourke, is still suffering from an injury that he sustained in the NAB Cup, while key position players Kristian Jaksch and Aidan Corr were not considered for selection. GWS will have a total of three number one draft picks on Saturday night, with Tom Scully, Jon Patton and Whitfield playing together for the first time. Combined with exciting youngsters in Stephen Coniglio, Liam Sumner, Jeremy Cameron, Will Hoskin-Elliott and Toby Greene, it is clear why the rest of the competition fears what the Giants will be in a few seasons’ time.

Another season, another dollar
The Swans will be fielding the usual experienced line-up, with veterans Adam Goodes and Jude Bolton starting their 15th campaign of AFL, and elder statesmen Lewis Roberts-Thomson, Ryan O’Keefe, Rhyce Shaw, Ted Richards and Jarrad McVeigh all gearing up for another tilt at the flag. With some of the Sydney players having two premiership medals from their career, will the hunger burn the same as previous years? Or will they need to rely on the younger brigade of Josh Kennedy, Kieren Jack, Dan Hannebery and Lewis Jetta, who’s thirst for another Grand Final win will be as strong as ever you would imagine.

SuperCoach
He was one of the more valuable cash-cows last season, but Adam Treloar is still a solid selection in your fantasy side. At $455,000, he is one of the most expensive players at his age. He averaged just under 90 points from three full-length NAB Cup games, which is higher than his average from last season.

Formally a much-maligned player, Nick Malceski shot to Sydney stardom with his match-winning role in the 2012 Grand Final with two outstanding snap goals to bookend the game. He has carried that confidence into the pre-season, averaging 100 SuperCoach points from two normal NAB Cup games. At $404,100, he is a point of difference and could be an inspired pick.

History
The AFL and Kevin Sheedy have worked hard to build up the rivalry between these two sides, but one would suggest that it will take some time until it is held in the same regard as the two WA and SA rivalries. It wasn’t helped by Sydney’s dominance over the Giants in their inaugural season, winning two games by 63 and 94 points.

Since 2000 (yeah yeah I know), Greater Western Sydney and Sydney have played two times. From left to right, this is the result of each game since the start of the millenium.

S – S

Overall
Greater Western Sydney: 0/2
Sydney: 2/2

Prediction
You would think that Sydney will take care of this clash, but the youth and excitement around the Giants is infectious. You can tell that they are primed to make a statement in their second year, and I think, given their contrasting pre-season campaigns, this one will be closer than most think. Still tipping the SYDNEY SWANS.
Margin: 34.

First goalkicker: Jonathon Patton.

When: Saturday March 30, 1:40PM
Where: Etihad Stadium

BigFooty Gameday Thread

WESTERN BULLDOGS
Bulldogs Board Game Day
FB: Dale Morris, Jordan Roughead, Liam Picken
HB: Jason Johannisen, Tom Young, Brett Goodes
C: Adam Cooney, Nick Lower, Koby Stevens
HF: Tory Dickson, Liam Jones, Daniel Giansiracusa
FF: Rob Murphy, Ayce Cordy, Luke Dahlhaus
R: Will Minson, Ryan Griffen, Tom Liberatore
I/C: Mitch Wallis, Daniel Cross, Shaun Higgins, Clay Smith
EMG: Jason Tutt, Lukas Markovic, Tom Campbell

NEW: Brett Goodes

BRISBANE
Brisbane Board Gameday Thread
FB: Elliot Yeo, Daniel Merrett, Joel Patfull
HB: Jed Adcock, Matthew Maguire, Pearce Hanley
C: Patrick Karnezis, Tom Rockliff, Mitch Golby
HF: Dayne Zorko, Stefan Martin, Josh Green
FF: Rohan Bewick, Jonathan Brown, Ash McGrath
R: Billy Longer, Daniel Rich, Brent Moloney
I/C: Claye Beams, Jack Redden, James Polkinghorne, Aaron Cornelius
EMG: Sam Docherty, Andrew Raines, Ryan Lester

Forecast: Mostly sunny, 18 degrees
Sportsbet: Western Bulldogs $2.65, Brisbane $1.48

Snapshot
The Bulldogs are being widely backed for the wooden spoon in 2013 and after a terrible year last season. They seem to be behind the development of Melbourne, Port Adelaide and the two expansion sides in Gold Coast and Greater Western Sydney. Coach Brendan McCartney begs to differ, and his side will be out to prove themselves on Saturday afternoon. They will face stiff competition though, as the reigning NAB Cup premiers travel to Melbourne to keep their unbeaten record this season alive. This will be Brisbane’s third game in a row at Docklands, and they will be hoping to clinch their third win from there.

New faces
Saturday afternoon will see a total of five players making their debut for their new club, and one player making their official AFL debut. That man is Brett Goodes, the 28 year old younger brother of Sydney star Adam. After a flawless pre-season, Goodes has been tipped to give vital experience to the backline as well as through the midfield. He will have a few teammates donning the famous Footscray jumper for the first time, including former Collingwood defender Tom Young, ex-Fremantle and Port Adelaide midfielder Nick Lower, and hard-nut Koby Stevens who was recruited from West Coast.

At the Lions, former Melbourne duo Stefan Martin and Brent Moloney will play their first official game with their new club. For Moloney, it is his third crack at an AFL team, having had a stint with Geelong at the start of his career. No doubt there will be plenty of nervous energy, not just from this group of players too.

Changing scenery
He is one of the classiest players on the Western Bulldogs’ list, but 2013 could see more time spent in the forward line for Bob Murphy after his role off of half-back in the past five or so seasons. He is capable of kicking goals (34 in 2008, 33 in 2005) and he could be the much-needed spark that the Bulldogs’ forward line needs. Spare a thought for Goodes as well, formerly a welfare manager at the Bulldogs, now he will be plugging holes in defence.

Drafted as a versatile forward, Patrick Karnezis spent his second season in the AFL finding his way as a midfielder in the NEAFL. Now, judging by his 2013 NAB Cup performance, he is ready to make the switch at the highest level. Karnezis has plenty of skill and is one of Brisbane’s most promising youngters. At 190cm and 90kg, it is very hard to forecast what role he’ll be playing in five years.

SuperCoach
He’s arguably the Western Bulldogs’ best player, and now a genuine SuperCoach gem. Midfielder Ryan Griffen is a unique pick for your side, and after averaging 99.5 SuperCoach points from two full-length NAB Cup games, it bodes well for his proper season form. He has a hefty price tag at $567,400, but you can sleep easy at night if you have him in your team.

He was the best performing player in terms of SuperCoach for players that played majority of the games in the NAB Cup, and it is ominous for his real season form for Daniel Rich. The Lions’ midfield star costs $485,800, but expect that price to rise. If you want to get on the Rich train that averaged 114.5 points from two full-length NAB Cup games, then you would want to get on it now.

History
Since 2000, the Western Bulldogs and Brisbane have played 24 times. From left to right, this is the result of each game since the start of the millenium.

BL – BL – BL – WB – BL – BL – BL – BL – BL – BL – WB – WB – WB – WB – WB – BL – WB – WB – WB – BL – WB – BL – BL – BL

Overall
Western Bulldogs: 10/24
Brisbane: 14/24

Western Bulldogs home game (Etihad Stadium/MCG)
Western Bulldogs: 6/10
Brisbane Lions: 4/10

Brisbane home game (Gabba)
Western Bulldogs: 4/13
Brisbane: 9/13

Prediction

You wouldn’t blame Dog supporters for feeling a little apprehensive about this game, especially when they are coming up against the boom side of the competition at the moment and a side that has the wood on them on recent times. I have had a little feeling about the WESTERN BULLDOGS for a couple of weeks now, and with Round 1 usually throwing up some upset victories, I think we’ll see a bit of a boil-over, for no reason other than I’ll look like a king if it comes off.

Margin: 13.

First goal kicker: Liam Jones.

When: Thursday March 28, 7:45PM
Where: MCG
BigFooty Game Day Thread

CARLTON
(Vote Blues on Facebook)

FB: Chris Yarran, Michael Jamison, Lachie Henderson
HB: Zach Tuohy, Nick Duigan, Bryce Gibbs
C: Kade Simpson, Andrew Carrazzo, Mitch Robinson
HF: Chris Judd, Andrew Walker, Jeff Garlett
FF: Eddie Betts, Levi Casboult, Shaun Hampson
R: Matthew Kreuzer, Marc Murphy, Brock McLean
I/C: Dennis Armfield, Josh Bootsma, Aaron Joseph, Kane Lucas
EMG: Tom Bell, Sam Rowe, Jeremy Laidler

RICHMOND
(Vote Tigers on Facebook)

FB: Steve Morris, Alex Rance, Troy Chaplin
HB: Jake Batchelor, Chris Newman, Bachar Houli
C: Shaun Grigg, Trent Cotchin, Reece Conca
HF: Brett Deledio, Shane Edwards, Daniel Jackson
FF: Luke McGuane, Jack Riewoldt, Robbie Nahas
R: Ivan Maric, Dustin Martin, Shane Tuck
I/C: Ben Griffiths, Jake King, Tyrone Vickery, Brandon Ellis
EMG: Matthew White, Chris Knights, Nick Vlastuin

Forecast: Rain easing, 22 degrees
TAB: Carlton $1.82, Richmond $2.00

Snapshot
The 2013 AFL Season begins with this game in my eyes. Footy is back at the MCG, two old rivals with plenty at stake, both teams highly-touted going into the new year, and both sides desperately wanting a first-up victory. Carlton will be aiming for their fifth straight Round 1 win over the Tiges, while Richmond will be hoping to beat the Blues for the first time since 2008. Carlton are coming off a NAB Cup Grand Final defeat the hands of the Brisbane Lions, while the Tigers posted close victories against Hawthorn, Western Bulldogs and Essendon to suggest they might be over the last-minute shock defeats that held them back in 2012.

Gamebreakers
Cast your eyes over both squads and, on paper, each side has an endless amount of gamebreakers; players capable of taking hold of a game and having a big say on it. For the Blues, you can’t go past Chris Yarran running off half-back, and it will be interesting to see if he has a greater role under Mick Malthouse. We saw how Leon Davis flourished in the twilight of his career in defence under the premiership coach, and we could see a similar form-rise from Yarran. Kicked the Goal of the Year in the corresponding match last season.

He has had a tumultous pre-season, and no doubt Dustin Martin has had this date circled on the calender as the day that the off-field troubles take a backseat to his on-field performance. 2013 could be the year that he explodes. Whether that is in a positive manner or negative is yet to be determined, but coach Damien Hardwick and captain Trent Cotchin are backing the young star to force his critics to eat their words. Round 1 in front of 80,000 fans will tell if Martin is serious about doing that or not, and if he is, Richmond are a step closer to winning.

Needing a big year
All pre-season, Carlton fans have been spruiking former first round draft selection Kane Lucas, announcing that, under Malthouse, 2013 will be his coming of age. It definitely has merit, as the Silver Fox has history of being a close mentor to younger players (think Dale Thomas, Alex Fasolo and Jarryd Blair). The silky midfielder was one of Carlton’s best players in the NAB Cup Grand Final against the Lions, and will be wanting to start off his third season in the AFL in a positive manner.

Another former first round draft pick, Tyrone Vickery’s 2012 season was wiped out due to injury, and he managed just nine games. In those games, he struggled playing as a key forward, a role in which he excelled at in 2011, kicking 35 goals. Tall enough to play as a ruckman and agile enough to be a key forward alongside Jack Riewoldt, Vickery has two powerful strings to his bow, and needs to avoid injury and cement his position in the best 22.

SuperCoach
He has been one of the most selected player in the past few seasons, but you get the feeling that 2013 will be Bryce Gibbs’ year to shine. With more midfield time forecast for the number one draft pick, he is sure to increase his SuperCoach average to a career-high. His form in the NAB Cup was excellent, averaging 112 points from two full-length matches. With a handy DPP status allowing him to be selected in defence and the midfield, he will be another player that coaches will invest in. $509,800 to be exact.

A former Essendon fringe player, Bachar Houli has transformed himself into a quality player for both Richmond and fantasy coaches. The half-back flanker will cost you $444,800, but his average of 100 from three full-length games in the NAB Cup ensures that you will be spending it wisely. A good point of difference.

History
As aforementioned, this is the sixth Round 1 blockbuster clash between these two sides, and seventh Round 1 game in a row. Carlton have dominated, winning six out of seven, including the past four. When you include return matches later in the season, Carlton have won nine games in a row, and a win tomorrow night will mean that for the first time since 1917, they will have defeated the Tigers 10 times in succession.

The best attendance between these two sides in Round 1 clashes was in 2009. On the night that Ben Cousins made his high-profile debut for Richmond, 87,043 people attended. That number will be given a fair shake tomorrow night.

Since 2000, Carlton and Richmond have played 22 times. From left to right, this is the result of each game from the start of the millenium.

C – C – R – R – C – C – C – R – C – R – R – C – R – C – C – C – C – C – C – C – C – C

Overall
Carlton: 16/22
Richmond: 6/22

Prediction
I’ve been looking forward to this game for about six months now, and it promises to be a beauty. Richmond, fighting to start the season with a win for the first time since 2008, while Carlton, aiming to hold their dominance over the Tigers. In a changing of the times, i’m tipping RICHMOND with not much confidence due to their forward power as well as a stronger backline. Midfield battle should be class with a capital C.

Margin: 7.

First goalkicker: Matthew Kreuzer.

Game day thread, plus BigFooty Live Chat from 7:30

When: Friday March 22, 8:10PM
Where: AAMI Stadium

TEAMS FORTHCOMING

Forecast: Cloudy, 18 degrees
Sportsbet: Adelaide $1.45, Essendon $2.80

Snapshot

The Toyota 2013 Premiership Season kicks off with the Adelaide Crows and the Essendon Football Club clashing at AAMI Stadium. Both sides had incredibly distracting off-seasons, with the Crows embroiled in the Kurt Tippett/salary cap saga, while Essendon are still in the midst of the ASADA investigation into drug use among players. Both sides will be keen for the first bounce.

Stop him at all costs

The Crows have plenty of dominant matchwinners, such as Patrick Dangerfield, Scott Thompson, Sam Jacobs and Daniel Talia, but the one Essendon defenders will be losing sleep over tonight is Taylor Walker. ‘The Mullet’ hasn’t been outstanding in the NAB Cup, but in 2012 he booted 63 goals, entrenching himself as one of the next dominant forwards of the current era. Who does James Hird send to Tex? Cale Hooker could be a possibility, while Jake Carlisle proved last season he isn’t incapable of playing on the big forwards. Or we could see Michael Hurley thrown back for a mouthwatering contest.

The Crows will have their own worries though. The 2012 Brownlow Medalist needs to be curtailed. Jobe Watson could determine the fate of the match by his own game. As captain, he has been under more scrutiny than most during the off-season drama, and he will be hoping to put in a big performance. The Crows could put Thompson on Watson, which would be an all-star match-up, or they could bring Brent Reilly into the midfield to try and curtail him.

Draftee watch

Mini-draft selection Brad Crouch is a strong chance to make his long-awaited debut for Adelaide on Friday night. He spent 2012 training with the group and playing in the SANFL, and is primed to make a big impact from the get-go.

Hird has made it clear that exciting father-son recruit Joe Daniher won’t play, but Nick Kommer will. The mature-age (22) recruit will make his debut for the Bombers after being selected in the fourth round of the National Draft. From East Perth, he is a hardened midfielder who had an impact in the NAB Cup and won’t be overawed on the big stage.

SuperCoach

Reliability, consistency, and durability. If you look up the SuperCoach Dictionary, under those words you will find Scott Thompson. The Adelaide midfielder has been a beacon of success in the past two seasons, playing 22 games and averaging 110.5 points each year. He has been carefully managed in the NAB Cup, playing two full-length games and averaging 85 points. But once the real stuff kicks off, you’ll realise that it is $591,000 well spent.

He was one of the biggest movers in the off-season, now it’s time for Brendon Goddard to walk the walk. The St Kilda star of 10 seasons may find himself wearing new colours, but he is still a SuperCoach staple in your defence or midfield. He played two games in the NAB Cup as well as the two shortened versions. In the two full-length games, he scored 102 points, which gives you plenty of confidence in selecting him at $541,500.

History

It is not often that Adelaide plays Essendon in Melbourne, with this clash being the fifth home game for the Crows in a row. Since 2000, the Crows and the Bombers have played 17 times. From left to right, this is the result of each game from the start of the milennium.

E – E – A – E – A – E – A – A – E – E – A – A – A – A – A – E – A

Overall

Adelaide: 10/17

Essendon: 7/17

Adelaide home game (AAMI Stadium)

Adelaide: 8/11
Essendon: 3/11

Essendon home game (Etihad Stadium)

Adelaide: 2/6
Essendon: 4/6

Prediction

This should be a cracking game, and although there will be plenty of miskicks and poor handballs, it will be great to have the footy back. Given it’s a home game and the crowd should well be in excess of 45,000, i’m tipping the ADELAIDE CROWS to defeat Essendon.

Margin: 33

First goalkicker: Brent Stanton

Breaking down the two sides, it’s easy to see why this game is impossible to pick.

Well, it’s here. Grand Final Day. It’s been a spectacular 2012 and there’s no reason to expect that isn’t going to stop now, with two closely matched sides poised to fight out what will hopefully be a cracker at the MCG this afternoon.

But what will be the difference for each side today? Since the Hawks are favourites with the bookies, BigFootyNews will look at the 4 biggest reasons they can win, and provide it with a counterpoint from the Swans.

Hawks Grand Final Links

• Gameday thread with previews
• Changes and teams
• Ticketing
• Change your avatar for the GF
• Grand Final banter thread
• Grand Final Training thread (with many pictures)

The Hawks have got the best forward line in the competition

On paper, it’s daunting. In reality, it’s bloody scary. The Hawks are easily the highest scoring team in the AFL this season, over 200 points clear of the second-placed Adelaide Crows (not to mention nearly 100 goals clear of their opponents, the Swans). They’ve only been kept to under 90 points 3 times in their 24 games this year, and all 3 of those occasions were early in the season when they were finding their feet.

The focus is usually on Lance Franklin and Cyril Rioli, with good reason, but even if those two were effectively shut-out by Sydney then they have a plethora of back-up options.

Luke Bruest, Jarryd Roughead, Jack Gunston, Paul Puopolo and David Hale have kicked 167 goals between them this year. That’s not even mentioning their options who have primarily played midfield or half-back this season. Jordan Lewis (27 goals), Matt Suckling (16 goals), Isaac Smith (16 goals) and Clinton Young (13 goals) regularly hit the score-board too and can be used up forward to good effect.

The most worrying of these ‘back-ups’ are players like Suckling and Young, who can ignore backlines by kicking goals from 50 metres plus out, as well as Lewis, who can almost play as a key-forward, and captain Luke Hodge who can be devastating if given space. It’s a huge, horrible migraine for opposition coaches and has been so nearly all year.

Jordan Lewis is one of many non-forwards at the Hawks who has been devastating when given the chance.

Counterpoint: Key forwards historically don’t have big games in Grand Finals

The area where the Swans are the weakest is certainly their forward line. Much maligned Hawks backman Ryan Schoenmakers typically takes young Swans forward Sam Reid, and usually beats him. Adam Goodes can be a very effective forward but is better used in various positions as needed. Mitch Morton and Lewis Roberts-Thomson are somewhat unknowns as to what they’ll produce on the big day (although Roberts-Thomson very nearly won a Norm Smith in 2005). But typically, if the contest is tight, the big forwards won’t be the match-winners.

One only has to look at great players like Wayne Carey not tearing it apart in Kangaroos’ GF victories to see the precedent. West Coast had an era near the top of the ladder in the mid-2000s, walking away with a flag, with a very choppy forward setup. Even looking at the best forward of the modern era, Hawthorn’s Lance Franklin, you can see that although he chipped in, he wasn’t a big part of the Hawks 2008 triumph over the Cats.

Add to this the fact that Sydney has the best and stingiest back six in the league and you can see why they’d back themselves in to get the job done.

Swans Grand Final Links

• Gameday Thread
• Opposition fans ‘bandwagon thread’
• Ticketing
• Grand Final banter thread
• Official “Where are you sitting at the Grand Final?” Thread

Once the Hawks make it to the big dance, they rarely stumble

Out of their past 15 Grand Final appearances, the Hawks have won 10. Out of Sydney’s last 7, they’ve won a solitary flag. A fair few of the Hawks 2008 premiership stars are either out or retired, but this side looks far more menacing.

Along with players like Hodge, Sam Mitchell, Lewis, Buddy and Sewell having outstanding years and more experience than before, they’ve got players they’ve brought in from elsewhere since then like Hale, spoiler extraordinaire Josh Gibson, Shaun Burgoyne and young forward Gunston, to name but a few.

Counterpoint: The modern Swans are a different side

Now, reading that, it’s easy to say that of course Hawthorn are too, which is true. But they as a side have more recently been in a Grand Final. While the Swans veterans will add incredibly useful experience to the side, the modern Sydney side is very much composed of role-players. That’s not to say there aren’t stars, it’s to say that everybody in the side has a certain role and is expected to perform it. This has been repeated a lot by Sydney players this season.

Even looking at Sydney’s 2005-2006 Grand Final appearances you can see this is a different side. While they’re still very strong defensively, they find space and hurt the opposition a lot more on the rebound than the mid 2000s side. They dictate the play on their terms and hurt the opposition with a superior game-plan. There’s also a lot more x-factor in the current side, and they’ve shown this season on multiple occasions they can kick a big score.

While a big score is unlikely in a Grand Final, it’s hard to see the Swans as the same as the dour, stoppage obsessed team that they were, whereas the Hawks still very much play a similar free-flowing attacking game to 2008.

The BigFooty Gameday Thread -

With LIVE CHAT @ 2PM

Players like Lewis Jetta have given the Swans an X-factor their last premiership side didn’t have.

The MCG is their kingdom

Sydney won’t look into it, but the Hawks should be buoyed knowing that the Swans typically play below their standards at the MCG. Hawthon know the MCG like the back of their hand, while the Swans hardly know it at all. The brown and gold have won its past 11 games against interstate sides at the ground.

It might be considered a neutral venue due to the fan split being more even than in a home and away game, but the evidence is still damning.

Counterpoint: Sydney have proved they can match it with the Hawks on their turf

If the MCG is the Hawk’s kingdom, then Launceston is their fortress. But that didn’t stop a powerful 37 point victory by the Swans earlier this season there, breaking a 7-game winning streak at the ground for the Hawks. While it wasn’t to be the case the second-time around at the SCG, the Swans know that their best can match it with the Hawks.

The question is, if co-captain Adam Goodes and their coach believe the MCG is truly a neutral venue (compared to two venues which obviously weren’t), then will the third time be a charm?

Sam Mitchell has had his best season in 2012, and is one of many big game players

Despite not being captain anymore, Sam Mitchell has gone from strength to strength since the Hawks’ last premiership. Despite not being flashy, he puts in consistent hard, workmanlike performances and is one of the biggest keys in every Hawthorn victory. He very nearly snatched the Brownlow from Essendon’s Jobe Watson this season, and he never leaves anything on the field.

If he has a rare off-game in the Grand Final, then the Hawks can cover him with the likes of Sewell and returning captain Hodge, who won the Norm Smith in 2008. In round 22 Shaun Burgoyne played one of his best games since leaving Port Adelaide when Hawthorn triumphed in Sydney. There’s no shortage of tough players at Hawthorn.

Counterpoint: The Swans have no shortage either

Mitchell’s two least effective games this year have, unsurprisingly, came against Sydney. Kieran Jack went head-to-head with him on both occasions in a run-with role and came out on top. He is the general, and if they can shut him down again it goes a long way to winning. Hodge can replace him but may be needed elsewhere, and although Sewell has been fantastic this year doesn’t have the same presence Mitchell has.

Shaun Burgoyne tore the Swans apart in Round 22, but Sydney coach John Longmire will do everything in his power to avoid a repeat.

The Swans, on the other hand, don’t seem to be worried by a drop in form of any one man. Josh Kennedy is their star midfielder, but co-captain Jarrad McVeigh, veteran Jude Bolton and youngster Dan Hannebery all shoulder the load with him equally.

Coach John Longmire knows how to address problems, and he will no doubt figure out a plan for Shaun Burgoyne. With how he played against them last time, the Hawks would be remiss not to use him in the same role again, and Longmire would be stupid to ignore it.

You could go on and on with comparisons in every facet of the field, but these two teams are incredibly well matched. The first time the Swans and the Hawks face off in a Grand Final couldn’t be better placed than it currently is.

Lets hope it’s one for the ages.

Credit: http://www.flickr.com/photos/jeffers1984/

2012 AFL Grand Final Preview – Hawthorn vs. Sydney

2:30pm Saturday 29thSeptember @ MCG – Weather: 14°C – Showers

Guest writer Conca Truck gives us his thoughts on the Grand Final.

After 206 games in season 2012 it all come down to this last one. The biggest game of the year, the AFL grand final between Hawthorn and Sydney.

These two teams have had fantastic years finishing 1st and 3rd. They both won their first qualifying finals, earning themselves the week off to get fresh and ready for their preliminary final. The Swans where too strong for the Magpies while the Hawks beat the Crows in a thriller.

Line Ups

Hawthorn

B: Grant Birchall , Josh Gibson , Benjamin Stratton
HB: Matt Suckling , Ryan Schoenmakers , Shaun Burgoyne
C: Jordan Lewis , Sam Mitchell , Xavier Ellis
HF: Jack Gunston, Lance Franklin, Isaac Smith
F: Cyril Rioli , Jarryd Roughead , Luke Breust
Foll: David Hale , Luke Hodge, Brad Sewell
I/C: Clinton Young, Liam Shiels , Shane Savage, Paul Puopolo
Emg: Max Bailey, Thomas Murphy , Kyle Cheney

In: L.Hodge
Out: T.Murphy

Sydney

B: Rhyce Shaw , Ted Richards, Martin Mattner
HB: Alex Johnson , Heath Grundy , Nicholas Smith
C: Lewis Jetta , Kieren Jack , Daniel Hannebery
HF: Craig Bird , Sam Reid , Ryan O’Keefe
F: Jarrad McVeigh , Adam Goodes, Lewis Roberts-Thomson
Foll: Shane Mumford, Josh P. Kennedy, Jude Bolton
I/C: Nick Malceski, Mike Pyke , Luke Parker , Mitch Morton
Emg: Trent Dennis-Lane , Tony Armstrong, Tommy Walsh

No Change

Last 5 times they have met:

Sydney 95 def.by Hawthorn 102 – SCG Round 22, 2012
Hawthorn 69 def.by Sydney 106 – Aurora Round 5, 2012
Hawthorn 122 def Sydney 86 – MCG Semi Final, 2011
Sydney 60 def.by Hawthorn 106 – SCG Round 9, 2011
Sydney 129 def hawthorn 85 – SCG Round 19, 2010

Key Match Ups

1. The Midfield Battle

Mitchell, Sewell, Hodge, Burgoyne, Lewis, Young, Smith, Shiels, Ellis
vs
Kennedy, Jack, Bolton, Jetta, O’Keffe, McVeigh, Hannebery

The midfield is where the game will be won and lost. There are some genuine stars of the competition in both midfields with Kennedy, Jack, Mitchell and Hodge. Both midfields will get best use of the ball from ruckmen but whichever teams midfield can get the ball from the middle and pump it long inside 50 the most will win the game.

2. Richards vs. Franklin

Richards has played on Franklin the last 3 times these teams have met and I would expect him to play on him again. Franklin has booted 4,0 and 4 goals in those 3 games and with Franlin getting back to his best from his injury and Richards in career best form, I would expect a gruelling contest.

3. Gibson vs. Goodes

With Schoenmakers going to Reid, that will leave Gibson to play on Goodes. Last time they met Gibson kept Goodes to the 2 goals and 15 touches and if Gibson can shut down Goodes again it will give the Hawks a good chance of winning.

4. N.Smith vs. Breust

Breust has had a great 2012 season booting 43 goals while also having 25 goal assists (ranking 2nd in the comp) and putting pressure on defenders with 105 tackles. Smith has also been great down back for the Swans and he should go to Breust and limit his output. Smith played on Breust in the round 22 clash this year keeping him goalless.

Key Players

Hawthorn

Shaun Burgoyne
Burgoyne has already played in two Grand Finals with Port Adelaide and he always steps up on the big stage. Burgoyne was best on ground last time he played Sydney with 26 touches and three crucial goals and a big game from Burgoyne is vital if the Hawks want to win.

Lance Franklin
The best defender in the competition Ted Richards will be waiting for Buddy this Saturday. Richards kept Franklin goalless and to four goals in their two clashes this season. But on the big stage expect Buddy to step up and have a big game, which might not mean kicking a bag of goals but setting them up for his teammates.

Luke Hodge
After missing last week with an illness Hodge will be fit and firing to play against the Swans this week. Hodge has shown he is a big game player winning the Norm Smith in 2008. His toughness around the ball will set the standard for his teammates.

Grant Birchall
The skilful defender is important for the Hawks as his pinpoint kicking is really going to set the Hawks up when coming out of defence.

Sam Mitchell
After only 17 and 20 disposals against the Swans this year, Mitchell has struggled against them. But Mitchell has been in great form lately and has been one of the best Hawks performers in finals so except a big performance this week even if he does get tagged by Bird.

Sydney

Josh P. Kennedy
Kennedy has sent a message to his former Hawk teammates this season in the two matches they played with huge games. Kennedy has been one of the most improved players of the comp and he has turned himself into a genuine star of the AFL and is a very good chance for the Norm Smith medal on Saturday.

Adam Goodes
One of the best players in the history of the Swans, Goodes will be looking for his second premiership medallion. Goodes has been known for his ability to turn a game around single-handedly and for his massive performances in the big games. If the Swans want to win their 5th Premiership then Adam Goodes will have to be at his best.

Sam Reid
Schoenmakers will man Reid up this week and the Swans need to exploit the pair in one on one contests. Schoenmakers has had 20 goals scored on him in his last four games and Reid is a good chance to boot three+ goals on him this week. But Reid has only kicked two goals against the Hawks in their two contests this year.

Lewis Jetta
The excitement machine is a massive X-Factor for the Swans on Saturday. But Jetta has been quiet against the Hawks this year with a combined total of 22 disposals from the two games against the Hawks this season and expect a Hawk to pay close attention to him.

Ted Richards
Richards has had an amazing season but he will have one of the toughest jobs in football, playing at Full Back on Lance Franklin. Richards one of the best defenders in the comp has kept Buddy to 4 goals in there 2 clashes this year and if he can limit Franklins output, it will go a long way in the Swans winning the game.

The Verdict

The best two teams of 2012 will do battle for the ultimate football glory: The Premiership Cup.

It is going to be a great battle from start to finish. The Hawks are a very attacking team while the Swans are defensive and if it turns into a shoot out, the Hawks might be too strong for the Swans. If the Swans slow the game down they are a very good chance of wining. Both teams have some great players and are evenly matched all around the ground.

But I would expect the Hawks to step up after last week and win a thriller.

Tip: Hawthorn by 5 points

Norm Smith Medal: Shaun Burgoyne

First Goal: Lewis Roberts-Thompson

Thanks for reading and leave a comment on which team you think will win the game, Norm Smith and kick the first goal:

http://www.bigfooty.com/forum/threads/2012-afl-grand-final-preview.974806/