AFL SATURDAY $40,000 CHEAT SHEET
Other than a scintillating finish between Gold Coast and St. Kilda, the second week of the bye proved to be typically droll. Carlton showcased their inadequacies, despite some Patrick Cripps brilliance, and Adelaide continued their nose dive into mediocrity after a Grand Final appearance in 2017. But, that was last week. We move on.
As always, Draftstars will add some spark to your Saturday of footy. Despite one less game being played this weekend, there are still a number of out-and-out superstars plying their trade and lower priced scorers trying to work a way into their sides best 22. Once again, the prize pool is $40,000+ and first place will have overflowing pockets, taking home $5,200.
Here is a team you may consider for the AFL $40,000+ Saturday competition
Forward
Jeremy Cameron ($12,620)
After a bag of six goals, accompanied by 26 disposals, against the Suns two weeks ago, a similar challenge presents itself. In that game, Cameron scored 135 DS points and was one of the highest scoring players for the round. And, as Jezza clutches at a first Coleman Medal, he’ll need to take opportunities like this game against the Lions and feast on his sides ball dominance and increased forward half occupancy if he wants to take it home at seasons end.
Harry Himmelberg ($7,940)
Himmelberg is a hard working utility and his score should reflect that. With Rory Lobb injured, don’t be surprised to see him pinch hit in the ruck and add a few feathers to his scoring bow in that regard. Typically good for a few shots a goal, he’s converted in recent weeks with efficiency and that has contributed to his increased scoring output. At just $7,940, Himmelberg offers a low risk option with the opportunity for a DS point boost as his role increases.
Midfield
Shaun Higgins ($14,520)
Higgins has the capacity to tear a game open with his innate ability to break lines, hit targets and make things happen. These match winning characteristics were on show against Geelong when he racked up 30 classy disposals, kicked two goals and had 123 DS points. He’s a great player in scintillating form and, at $14,520, his value is higher than his price represents. Combine his obvious football abilities with the fact the Roos face the underhanded Dogs this week, who have allowed gun midfielders huge scoring games, and Higgins becomes the most astute pickup of the week.
Jack Martin ($10,330)
Martin has astonishing potential. And, although he hasn’t so far lived up to expectations, he is still an integral part of the Suns game plan. Last week against the Saints he made rangy runs up the wing where he could get more of the ball and utilise his efficient ball distribution and his disposal tally increased as a result. He also has a sixth sense around the goals and if he can get his hands on the ball inside 50 he will hit the scoreboard, a valuable scoring boost for any midfielder.
Cameron Rayner ($8,800)
With the NBA draft on Friday, let us pay homage to Rayner, the number one draft pick from last year. Without tearing open any games, Rayner has shown what he is capable of. The Lions have somewhat managed his workload throughout the season and he’s made more of an impact when he is fresh. After the bye last week, Rayner will be champing at the bit to get back on the field and strut his stuff against the star studded Giants engine room.
Charlie Ballard ($7,250)
Taken at pick 42 in the 2017 draft out of South Australia, Ballard has exceeded expectations by already playing six games in his debut year. The most attractive things about Ballard are, firstly, his cost, which allows us flexibility in other positions. And secondly, his form line, which indicates he is growing into his role and getting more comfortable at AFL level.
Defence
Lachie Whitfield ($14,620)
As the Giants have grown into the season, so has Whitfield. Last game he produced a huge score of 120 on the back of 36 disposals and after a week off to refresh, he is primed to have another day out this week. He is a star that can control the game, break lines, hit the scoreboard, lay tackles and set up play for his team. Against a Lions side without the cattle to minimise his impact, and with his side running on top of the ground, Whitfield could have a career game.
Ed Richards ($9,300)
With an AFL pedigree as good as any, Richards has burst onto the scene in his debut season. He plays a key role for the Bulldogs off of half back and has averaged over 15 disposals a game. A type of player you love to watch, his bright red hair, penetrating boot and electrifying speed offer a fan favourite. Not only that, he has form, kicking three magnificent goals and collecting 16 disposals last week.
Ruck
Jarrod Witts ($13,590)
Witts is a monster. He stands at 208 centimetres. His opponent, Ben McEvoy, is 8 centimetres shorter. Because of his size, Witts averages an eye watering 39 hitouts per game, second in the AFL, and he will best that this week against the Hawks. While McEvoy will try to work him over around the ground, he’s been no slouch in that area, getting his hands on the ball almost 15 times a game this year. He had a huge game last time the Suns faced the Hawks, with a score of 115, and we can expect much of the same.
Written by Brin Duggan Follow @BrinDuggan
The Line Up
FWD: Jeremy Cameron ($12,620)
FWD: Harry Himmelberg ($7,940)
MID: Shaun Higgins ($14,520)
MID: Jack Martin ($10,330)
MID: Cameron Rayner ($8,800)
MID: Charlie Ballard ($7,250)
DEF: Lachie Whitfield ($14,620)
DEF: Ed Richards ($9,300)
RUCK: Jarrod Witts ($13,590)
Salary Remaining: $1,030
Check out the new Fantasy Insider podcast which previews this Saturday’s $40,000 contest as well as some world cup tips.
AFL SCORING SYSTEM
Kick = 3 points
Mark = 3 points
Handball = 2 points
Goal = 6 points
Behind = 1 point
Tackle = 4 points
Free Kick For = 1 point
Free Kick Against = -3 points
Hitout = 1 point
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