The AAMI AFL Community Series kicks off on Thursday night at Marvel Stadium as Carlton take on the 2021 AFL Premiers in Melbourne.

 

A word of warning, as there are obviously no Premiership points on the line today. The squads are larger, with eight on the interchange, and teams looking to trial game plans and strategies, especially with Carlton led by new coach Michael Voss. Melbourne are missing a handful of premiership players from their named squad, however it would be a surprise to deviate from what was a successful gameplan in 2021.

 

Draftstars has come to the party to start the AAMI AFL Community Series, with a $20,000 guaranteed contest, as well as Mini and Micro options.

 

 

For today, we will take a look at some of the players who have found a new home over the off-season, and some players to keep an eye on to kick off the season. If this were round 1 of the season I’d be looking more towards the likes of Patrick Cripps, Christian Petracca, Clayton Oliver and Max Gawn, however off the small sample size that is one practice match, and some above averages finishes to the 2021 season from some players, here are some potential options to consider when building a line-up for Thursday night.

 

George Hewett - $11,190 (Def/Mid)

A trade that largely fell under the radar during the Trade Period, as Hewett made his way from the Swans to the Blues. 2021 was a below average year for Hewett, however he did finish with a flurry with three scores over 90. In the practice match last week he did play a significant amount of time in the middle of the ground, and looks to be a great value player to incorporate as a defender in your team.

 

Adam Cerra - $13,620 (Mid)

Another new arrival to Carlton this year, and the Blues paid the big price of pick 6 for the 22-year old. He looks to slot straight into the middle for the better part of the next decade, however my interest for now lies with Thursday night. I think his salary looks to be better value than Patrick Cripps with the potential to have more midfield time as he looks to develop chemistry with his new team.

 

Zac Fisher - $8,300 (Mid)

I don’t think we have seen the best from Zac Fisher just yet, with injuries impacting his last couple of years. He may be worth considering as a low-salary midfield addition, especially given his role in the practice match last week included attendance at centre bounces in a pure midfield role at times.

 

Angus Brayshaw - $10,530 (Mid)

The speculation around his contract status this year will build the longer he remains unsigned. Much like Hewett, Brayshaw finished the season strongly, with his two highest scoring outputs coming during the finals. Likely to sit on a wing for the majority of the match, and if it does open up could generate a solid score.

 

Tom Sparrow - $6,900 (Fwd/Mid)

A slightly speculative selection here, although it is worth noting that Sparrow ranked third for centre bounce attendances for Melbourne in last week’s practice match against North Melbourne. Jack Viney coming into the team may hurt his output, but given his strong pre-season and the desire for Melbourne to enhance its midfield depth, this looks to be a great opportunity to allow more time in the middle for the 21-year old. Worth consideration in a forward line spot.

 

Always remember to gamble responsibly. When the fun stops, stop. If gambling is having a negative impact on your life, seek support at Gambling Help Online.  18+ only.