2009 NAB Cup Game Notes – Fremantle Dockers v Richmond Tigers

Fremantle kicked off their NAB Cup campaign at home as they hosted Richmond at Subiaco oval. While the fans would have to wait another week for Ben Cousins to make his debut, they were treated to a masterful display by another great veteran of the game – the evergreen Matthew Richardson. Playing on a wing, Richo proved the difference between the two sides, singlehandedly lifting his team to victory with the last two goals of the game as well as taking a match-saving mark in the dying seconds. The Tigers recorded an 89-86 victory and an ideal start to their 2009 season. For the Dockers, they showed enough to suggest 2009 won’t be the write off that 2008 turned out to be.

For full match overviews, check out the reports from Herald Sun, Real Footy and AFL.com.au. Get your full match stats at AFL.com.au, and your AFL Dream Team scores at FanFooty.

As is often the case – Matthew Richardson was the star. Despite being 33 years old, there was no easing him into the season – he lined up on a wing and played plenty of minutes in a best on ground display. He had 25 touches, 9 marks and 3 goals including a supergoal and was too much for what appeared a reasonable match up in the Dockers’ Michael Johnson.

In great signs for Tigers fans, Nathan Brown also showed the kind of form we all know he is capable of, yet he has struggled to regain consistently after his broken leg. He had 21 disposals, kicked 3 goals and also had 4 tackles in a wonderful start for the year. He is potentially the player to lift the Tigers into the finals if he can put together an uninterrupted season.

Jack Riewoldt started his 2009 season in the best possible way as he strives to be known as a top player in his own right – rather than Nick’s cousin. Playing as a roaming forward he gave young Docker Greg Broughton the run around, taking 10 grabs on his way to 21 touches and a couple of goals. He showed signs of his ability last year and the Tigers will be looking to him for a consistent year as another avenue to goal.

No. 3 Pick Stephen Hill has been the subject of much criticism being selected as high as he was, but the Dockers will be very happy with his initial hit out. Playing on a half back flank, Hill looked the part with 13 disposals and linking up well. He also had a very impressive 8 tackles – especially so because of his rather light frame. Hill will be unfairly scrutinised because of his high selection (not unlike Tiger Richard Tambling), however the doubters won’t be around for long if his first game is any indication.

Last year’s Rising Star winner Rhys Palmer continued where he left off last year, gathering the ball 21 times despite spending much of the first quarter on the bench. He’ll continue to get the ball as ever, but to reach the top echelon it’s time for his disposal to improve.

David Mundy spent time through the midfield as has been hinted at during the pre-season, but didn’t exactly set the world on fire with his 18 disposals. Looks like he’ll continue to get his chance through the season as another in the midfield rotation.

Of the Richmond youngsters … Andrew Raines was very impressive off half-back … Daniel Jackson was productive with 29 touches and 6 tackles and may be one player ready to step up … Matt White showed his customary pace among 14 disposals … Robin Nahas kicked his first goal in Yellow and Black but was relatively quiet.

Of the Fremantle youngsters … Matthew DeBoer‘s stocks fell in the off season with doubts on his foot skills but did some good things with 11 touches and a nice first quarter goal … Clancee Pearce is another who went a bit lower than his performances may have warranted, but he did a nice job on opposition youngster Nahas.

Dream Team Watch:

Richardson (434k) shows no signs of stopping and looks a keeper pick up forward for many again this season. (115)

Raines (188k) will be another picked by many teams as a cheap defender as long as he looks like being in the regular 22. At this stage he does but keep an eye on him. (73)

Troy Simmonds (370k) was a very popular pick last year but at the higher price this year he’s nowhere near the value he was. He’s a steady option in your ruck but there looks to be others better. (67)

Nathan Foley (332k) struggles against a tag, but running free against the Dockers he showed what he is capable of. Might be one to look at in your midfield at a price lower than the true topliners. (92)

Hill (142k) pays the price for being picked high, however if he plays regularly (and there’s no reason to think he won’t based on this effort) he’s still at a bargain price. Named in the defenders also makes him a more attractive option. Definitely worth a look. (79)

Aaron Sandilands (363k) dominated the hitouts as you would expect, but only managed one kick and 8 possessions in total. He looks about his right price, so it’s a case of back your own judgement with him. He’s not one of mine, so I’ll be likely passing on him – I’m a Dean Cox devotee. (55)

Mundy (312k) definitely burnt some bridges with DT goers last year but with the likelihood of more time through the midfield he has to be looked at again in your defence. (69)