Grand final week is always a nerve-racking time as summer bragging rights are decided and of course the $50,000 prize. We nearly got through the year without a huge offload of players being “rested”- until now. Fremantle have shut up shop in preparation for their final against Geelong and consequently turned over 10 players! Amongst the victims are Nat Fyfe, David Mundy and perhaps Zac Clarke for some, Cyril Rioli and Daniel Hannebery will also miss tonight’s clash. On a positive note, Garrick Ibbotson, Andrew Walker, Matthew Kreuzer and Dayne Beams all return, bolstering many coaches’ line-ups. Finding those double points to turn 150 points into a 300 is never more important than this week, choose wisely and good luck.
As for the top scorer’s of round 22, Scott Thompson was back to his very best, compiling 33 touches 13 of which were contested, seven tackles and six clearances on his way to 176 SC points against the Dees. Brendon Goddard (156) thrived on the big stage as always, Nick Riewoldt (155) dominated the Suns while Will Minson (154), Leigh Montagna (154) and Tom Rockliff (153) all continued their superb seasons with big scores.
Here are my captaincy selections for round 23.