This was a crucial game for fantasy coaches. We had plenty of premiums and cash cows on show, and by the end of the game, a much clearer picture had been painted. Here’s my review of the St Kilda and Essendon practice match.
Zach Merrett has been a staple premium in our midfield for over half a decade. As we enter another season, does the trend continue, or will we start to see his scoring decline?
Will Aaron Francis be fantasy footy relevant as a Sydney Swan?
Since 2016 Zach Merrett has been a durable and reliable premium across all game formats. After delivering his career-high scores last season, coaches should have some optimism that the 110+ averages should continue for more years to come.
In the past two seasons, Jordan Ridley has emerged as one of the best defensive premiums available. Now, there’s a world where he could improve his scoring even more.
The breakout to the elite scoring of Darcy Parish was one of the more surprising developments in 2021. But with a fully fit and firing Essendon midfield, can he back it up and be the dominant premium fantasy footballer coaches are hoping for?
Last year Dyson Heppell flew under the radar with his consistent scoring. With him picking up defender status, he looks to be one of the most dependable premiums backs for the season.
It came as no surprise that Jake Kelly was one of the first deals finalised from the offseason. The former Crow moved seamlessly into the red and black of Essendon and immediately helps bolster an already potent backline.
Without a doubt, one of the breakout players in fantasy footy this season was Darcy Parish. The recently crowned All Australian midfielder moved from being on the fringe of squad selection to be an M1 potentially. The big question for new keeper leagues or those considering trading for him is how you should rank Darcy Parish in a keeper?
Since 2016 Zach Merrett has been a fantasy footy favourite among the community. After another strong season last year, can he elevate his game even further under a new coach?