In 2015, the Cats are thrilled to be partnering with fantasy experts footyprophet.com to bring you all the insight you need about AFL Fantasy and the Cats’ fantasy value. Stay tuned for a wealth of information from the experts as they help you to fantasy glory.

FORM & HISTORY

In modern times, traditional rivals Geelong and Collingwood have been among the leagues best. Now younger and rejuvenated playing lists for both sides will provide the optimal field to gauge their development. Collingwood hold a 3:2 advantage over the last five games played between the two clubs including three of the past four. Since 2010, both sides are even, at five apiece and three of the past four decided by a margin of less than two goals. Of course, Geelong and Collingwood met in the 2011 Grand Final which would become the third in Geelong’s dynasty.

THE LEAD UP

Both Geelong and Collingwood are coming off convincing victories in Round 5, with the Pies trumping Carlton in a one sided affair while Geelong withstood a late Tiger comeback to hold on 9 point victors. Seven changes were made between both sides following Round 6, possibly the biggest being James Kelly, who had split a testicle against the Tigers. Forgotten Cat Josh Cowan ($142 000, MID) makes his senior return after 1384 days between games.

Tall offseason recruits Mitch Clark and Rhys Stanley return after one week layoffs in place of Dawson Simpson and Josh Walker, who were both omissions. For Collingwood, Anzac Day medallist Paul Seedsman has succumbed to a glute complaint and will miss, while they regain Tim Broomhead as well as Jarrod Witts and Tony Armstrong for their first appearances of 2015.

While Collingwood rank #1 in the competition for contested possessions, Geelong rank 18th and will need to address this issue if they are to have any chance at bringing the four points back to Kardinia Park. Joel Selwood, whom will lead from the front, along with Josh Caddy ($386 000, MID), Cam Guthrie ($401 000, MID) and Steve Johnson ($458 000, MID) will need to do the grunt of the work inside of centre. Mitch Duncan was let off the leash against Richmond, and returned to form in monstrous manner and 133 AFL fantasy points.

Tom Lonergan, often a quiet achiever will reach the 150 game milestone on Friday night. A serviceable career that rarely receives the credit he deserves.

KEY MATCH-UP

While the likelihood of this pair going toe-to-toe throughout the match is a far cry from reality, there is no doubt Joel Selwood ($565 000, MID) and Scott Pendlebury’s performances will be prominent factors in determining the winning team. While both players are among the competition’s elite, they are the dominant forces in their respective sides’ young midfield brigade. After Selwood was well held in the first half against the Tigers, he worked his way into the game and was a driving force which ultimately led to Geelong sealing victory and walking away winners. Both Selwood and Pendlebury are likely to receive close attention this week, and the matchup may ultimately come down to which player is able to relinquish their tag more effectively. Given Geelong rank 18th in the league for clearances while Collingwood are only one better in 17th, Selwood and his midfield counterparts will have their work cut out for them, however will be up for the challenge and out to prove Geelong are still finals hopefuls.

BOOM OR BUST

After a rest in the bleachers with general soreness, Rhys Stanley ($374 000, FWD) is in pristine condition heading into the match. Stanley has established himself as Geelong’s number one ruckman, and will face an in-form Brodie Grundy and the returning Jarrod Witts on Friday night. In fantasy circles, Stanley has failed to hit his mark in his three outings for 2015. Already a dominant ruck force, Stanley excels in the contents, however a slight increase in output outside of the ruck contests could pay dividends. The omission of big man Dawson Simpson places complete onus on Stanley with increasing pressure to perform by his understudies. While not possessing the hulking frame of some of his peers, Stanley has been blessed with athletic capabilities that will allow him to gain more possessions, which he timely deserves.

Jared Rivers ($320 000, DEF) may not be the most exuberant AFL Fantasy option, however a huge day out against the Tigers means the lockdown defender has a low break even score, enough so to generate cash in times of crisis. Against Richmond, the Cats’ defence was the primary force on the ground, repelling countless attacks from the Richmond midfield, of which Rivers took 14 marks. Against Collingwood, Rivers will likely play on the resting ruckman, whether it be Witts or Grundy, and in every mind could nullify his opponents such as he did against Richmond, to provide owners with a decent score. Rivers is a risky pick at that, and may not provide the best available value, but is definitely worth consideration for those brave among us, and even more so in AFL Fantasy Elite.

FOOTY PROPHET’S FANTASY FIVE

  1. Joel Selwood ($565 000, MID)
  2. Mitch Duncan ($434 000, MID)
  3. Mark Blicavs ($440 000, MID/RUC)
  4. Harry Taylor ($416 000, DEF)
  5. Steven Motlop ($504 000, MID)