Matthew Pavlich vs. Melbourne (12 matches, ave. 90, career ave. 86.5)
It surprised me to see that last week’s score of 124, was Pavlich’s first hundred of the season. Despite this fact, he’s still averaging 91 in season 2008 and has shown some promising form. Scores of 134 and 127 against Melbourne last year, suggest that Melbourne struggle to match up on him. It will be interesting to see who goes to Pav; perhaps Carroll or Rivers. Either way, I can’t see either of them matching him for pace. Safe bet this week.
Prediction: 121
Dean Cox vs. Carlton (7 matches, ave. 90.9, career ave. 78.1)
Despite injury concerns, big Cox has still produced some good numbers over the last few weeks. His return against Carlton in the last two years has been 114 and 123. Against a fledgling Carlton ruck division, the trend should continue.
Prediction: 118
Simon Goodwin vs. North Melbourne (13 matches, ave. 92, career ave. 80.3)
With only one score below 90 so far this season, Simon Goodwin is clearly enjoying his time up forward. He usually plays well against the Roos, although it will be interesting to see if this changes because of his new role.
Prediction: 114
Nick Riewoldt vs. Richmond (9 matches, ave. 95, career ave. 88.1)
Nick has had a pretty disappointing 2008 campaign so far, averaging just 85, well down on his figures from previous years. However, he has a great record against the Tiges; hasn’t dropped below 90 since 2003. If he wants to kick start his season this could be the week to do it.
Prediction: 112
Smokie: Alan Didak vs. Hawthorn (9 matches, ave. 80.9, career ave. 62)
Love him or hate (personally, I’m a bit of both), he’s a class act and has shown some super form this season, averaging over 100. Scores of 110, 95, 116 and 122 over the past month suggest his consistency, which has been lacking in previous years, is definitely improving. His average of 80.9 against Hawthorn is higher than any other team. The only worry could be a possible match up with Campbell Brown.
Prediction: 108
Really Smokie: Strauchnie vs. Hawthorn (0 matches, ave. 0, career ave. 0)
With the omission this week of Sharrod Wellingham, Strauchnie has finally been given his chance to shine in the AFL. This prestigious talent first came to the attention of Mick Malthouse three years ago, but since then he has been toiling away in the VFL, sharpening his skills and building up his fitness levels. Word from the club is he is the most promising talent on any AFL list at the moment. Nathan Buckley says that watching Strauchnie play footy is “like watching a walrus on ecstasy chase a leprechaun”. We’re still trying to figure that one out, but it does sound promising.
Prediction: 80 (after the first 20 minutes of game time, he’ll collapse from exhaustion and may require medical attention)