Unfortunately the round kicks off on a Thursday, giving us ample time to think about our captain as well as the opportunity to use the VC loophole ... that’s where the positives of Thursday night football end for this AFL fan.
Taking a look at last week’s top scorers, Pearce Hanley was unstoppable, he racked up 45 touches and had 1062 metres gained on his way to 191 SC points – amazing. I dare say Pearce will get some close attention this weekend. Jake Carlisle (188) was again the match-winner, clunking everything that came his way; Nick Riewoldt (179) led from the front in a vintage Riewoldt performance while Tom Rockliff (175) was another Lion that cashed in on the Suns rout.
Here are my captaincy selections for round 19!
Josh Kennedy
Its rare JPK is kept quiet and while his numbers were sufficient his impact wasn’t at his normal best. All champions bounce back and rarely have two below-par games in a row; Kennedy has had a sensational season, highlighted by the fact that aside from the opening two rounds (91 & 109) Kennedy hasn’t since served up back-to-back sub 110 scores – a great feat. Expect a big score thos week.
Tom Rockliff
His stats say it all last week, 47 touches, 19 contested, 11 clearances, 10 tackles and 175 SC points! An outstanding performance. Rockliff has been a familiar figure in this column and for good reason, strongly consider once again.
Matthew Priddis
Priddis often gets criticised for his lack of impact upon a match, well he was in his element last week and was one of few Eagles that stood tall. He racked up the Sherrin at will on the way to 149 SC points; he is one of the best POD in the competition while he averages 32 disposals and 123 SC points against the Crows in their pat three meetings.
Todd Goldstein
After a slow start to the year, Goldstein has hit top flight over the past two months, his lowest score in his past seven outings being 95 while producing scores of 131 and 166 in the last two weeks. He takes on Geelong this week, a ruck combination that can waiver in form, expect him to be extremely influential.
Scott Pendlebury
Past 5 vs Port Adelaide – 101, 112, 134, 133, 120
The Pies are struggling and while Pendlebury is still scoring well, it is not the blistering tons we are after. I will still lock him at this point in what is a massive game against Port Adelaide, but if you are not feeling confident with him, Tom Rockliff looks to be your man.
Who will you be whacking the VC and C on this week?