Welcome to this week’s ‘Rookie Watch’, where we take a closer look at the rookie players who made their debut over the weekend and assess their potential for future AFL Fantasy scoring. As we all know, rookies can be a make or break in AFL Fantasy, and finding those hidden gems early can give you a significant advantage over your competitors. So, without further ado, let’s dive into some of the performances of the rookies and evaluate their potential for the future.
Arthur Jones – Western Bulldogs
On debut, Jones gathered five touches and 18 points for the Bulldogs. With Weightman still to return to the Dog’s forward line and Rhylee West performing well in the VFL, Jones’ job security and seemingly low-scoring capacity are question marks.
Will Ashcroft – Brisbane
Ashcroft was solid for the Lions without having quite the same impact as last week. Against a strong Bulldogs midfield, he gathered 23 disposals, four clearances and 71 points playing the familiar midfield/half-forward role.
Lachie Cowan – Carlton
The Cow again showed some signs for the Blues which suggests he’ll be a key part of the way they move the ball in the coming years. With 45 points from 11 touches, he didn’t set the fantasy world on fire again but will keep improving with games.
Ollie Hollands – Carlton
The hard-running wingman was good again for the Blues. Loved how he laid four tackles to bump his score to 56. Looks to have made one of the wing spots his own this year in a credit to the teenager.
Harry Rowston – GWS
Second-gamer Harry Rowston played mostly on the wing for the Giants and used the ball well. He managed 14 disposals, three marks and three tackles for 56 points. With GWS’ midfield well-stocked, job security is always an issue but he looks the goods early.
Darcy Wilmot – Brisbane
I thought it was one of Wilmot’s best games at AFL level in the loss to the Bulldogs. He looked to use his long kicking where possible and chopped off some forward attacks across half-back. Finished with 15 disposals (11 kicks) and 66 points. With Daniel Rich only getting older, Wilmot could soon become the dedicated ‘kicker’ in the Lions back line.
Luke Pedlar – Adelaide
Pedlar stood up for the Crows in his best senior game to date. Booted three goals and scored 67 points from 12 touches, but unfortunately will miss the round four clash with Fremantle through suspension.
Max Michalanney – Adelaide
Is the sort of player who won’t be a household name, but Max Michalanney is already showing poise and class beyond his years. Copped a huge hit from Todd Marshall but got back to his feet and played out the rest of the game, keeping Junior Rioli quiet while scoring 68 points himself.
Kade Chandler – Melbourne
Chandler’s strong start to the year continued in the Demons’ win over Sydney. The small forward didn’t get a lot of the ball, managing nine disposals, but importantly he made the most of his opportunities, booting three goals to elevate his score to 66. A few more than two tackles and he would’ve pieced together a very handy score.
Jacob van Rooyen – Melbourne
The big Western Australian looked the goods on debut, booting three goals from nine disposals. He laid six tackles which propelled his score to a very respectable 76. Not sure he’ll do that every week, but expect him to get some regular games with Gawn out.
Harry Sheezel – North Melbourne
What a star. Found it more difficult this week but still got his hands on it 26 times and scored 109 points. The fact that they’re both career lows is staggering. Used the ball with precision and managed eight intercepts. Leads all fantasy scorers through the first three rounds. Unbelievable start from the Cheezel.
Cameron Mackenzie – Hawthorn
Mackenzie can’t be too far away from a rising star nomination. His ball use on Saturday afternoon was terrific. Scored 94 points and won eight contested possessions in his 20-touches, also laying nine tackles to suggest he is much more than a distributor.
Reuben Ginbey – West Coast
The round three rising star, Reuben Ginbey was always going to love the derby. He was born for the tough, physical nature of these contests. Laid eight tackles and won 20 disposals to score 82 points. Would’ve been higher if his kick-to-handball ratio was reversed, but nonetheless Ginbey is a gun who will be fantasy-relevant for a long time to come.
