NRL Dream Team 2011 is flooded with talented hookers including some returning veterans, young talent and seasoned Dream Team Stars.
The 'must have' duo Cameron Smith and Robbie Farah return to once again dominate the competition but at over $350000 each can you afford them both?
If not the Defensive Dynamo's Nathan Friend (injured) and Matt Ballin are viable options followed by risky talent such as Melbourne's Ryan Hinchcliffe, Penrith's bearded asylum Kevin Kingston and Cowboy roughy Aaron Payne.
However the true bargains lie in the form of ex Broncos Casey McGuire and Shaun Berrigan who lead the best buys. After years in England former Premiership winners McGuire (Eels) and Berrigan (Warriors) could start the season at number 9 for there respective clubs.
McGuire may prove to be the best buy this season as his $164500 price tag is drastically under priced for a starting hooker. The veteran looks set to play between 40-60 minutes a game at hooker which should result in 25-35 points per game seeing his price rise to about $225000 by Round 8.Meanwhile Warriors recruit Shaun Berrigan (also $164500), will look to stabilise a kiwis team flooded with attacking talent. The experienced utility may start off the bench, however he will find time at hooker or in the halves for Coach Ivan Cleary.
Newcastle's' Isaac De Gois is another bargain at just $176400. The crafty De Gois is an excellent runner, passer and tackler. If he remains healthy his NSW Origin ambitions may be rejuvenated and consistent scores in the low 30's for Dream Team 2011.
The 'duds' category contains some high profile stars with NSW Origin players Dean Young and Micheal Ennis among a cast of hookers whose production should decrease this upcoming season. The experienced pair are under injury clouds heading into round 1 which may decrease their scoring. New Bulldogs recruit Kris Keating and Dragons Nathan Fien and Cameron King look set to take significant playing time from both Ennis and Young. At over $240000 their are significantly better options at cheaper prices.
Canberra duo Glen Buttriss and Travis Waddell will look to consolidate the Raiders Hooker position however inspirational Captain Alan Tongue could spend time at the position if Coach David Furner opts for young workhorse Shaun Fensom at Lock. Hold off on the Canberra trio until the lineups are confirmed.
Former Penrith star Paul Aiton was arguably the most improved player in the 2009 NRL season with the mountain men but really struggled in his first season with Cronulla. Season 2011 is shaping up to be a better year for the Papua New Guinea Captain, however with a hard working pack and veteran John Morris still occupying a roster spot I have doubts over whether Aiton can reach the form of two years ago.
Others to avoid are Roosters recruits Mark Riddell and the injured Anthony Watts. Parramatta's Matt Keating is not worthy of a spot nor is Rabbitoh Beau Falloon. Brisbane utility Ben Hunt should play sparingly and ex bad-boy Manly's Terrance Seu Seu is a big risk.
Strategy
While picking your squad there's one very important question you musk ask yourself.
Smith or Farah?
If you plan on having them both, your cap will be largely depleted even before delving into the expensive Second Row market place. There are a host of solid Hookers in the $200000 price range that will accompany your star man perfectly.
Solid Scorers
Andrew McCullough ($261100). The young Bronco is an ultra consistent player with a tremendous work rate averaging 34 tackles, 36 run metres and scored six tries in 21 games last season. McCullough, who should evolve into an 80 minute player this season, may be sliding under the radar of many coaches but don't let that deter you.He's a great talent who could average as high 45.Jake Friend ($265500). The Roosters outstanding finals campaign was largely attributed to the play of Friend and the tenacious Hooker should spearhead the Roosters side again this season. Friend's playing style lends himself perfectly to Dream Team as he is a consistent 35+ tackler, a willing runner and further development of a kicking game will see Friend brake the 40 point mark more often than not this season.
Isaac Luke ($286900). The lively Kiwi is not consistent but extremely explosive. Similar to many of his Rabbitohs teamates, he will score well when the team plays well. A very poor defender who averaged the 2nd most missed tackles per game in the NRL last season makes up for it with his goalkicking and attacking running. However at his price I prefer the stability of a Ballin or Friend. Pick him at your own risk!
Use the first 3 rounds as a guide to the form of players for the upcoming season. Make trades if necessary but only due to injuries or non starting players. Preserve your trades particularly with your hookers. Other positions will require more altering, so once you have two consistent Hookers leave them and let them work for you!
Next Episode will focus on the Front Row Forwards on offer in NRL Dream Team 2011.
No comments:
Post a Comment