Last week posed challenges in selecting the ideal captain, and I acknowledge that we need to rebound this week. I’m designating this week’s selections as the “Captain Pick of the Season!”
The bye rounds offer remarkable flexibility, allowing for strategic Vice-Captain choices later in the round. While I’ve organised the article into VC and Captain sections, consider utilising Xerri as your VC, knowing you have reliable options like TDK or Gawn to fall back on.
Round 13 Vice-Captain Options
Marcus Bontempelli
Fresh off the bye, Bontempelli is primed to deliver an impressive performance. The Hawks have struggled at clearance recently, a trend I anticipate will continue this week with the Western Bulldogs well-rested. Notably, if Bontempelli is tagged, he has the ability to transition forward and score goals. He has achieved scores between 128 and 159 in 4 out of 6 games this season, and in the last encounter at this venue, he scored 142 SuperCoach points.
Nic Martin
Martin currently holds an elite SuperCoach role, operating effectively off stoppages, assisting defensively, and capitalizing on scoring opportunities. He ranks as the number one defender over the last five rounds, averaging 125.8 points, and is the second-ranked forward behind Bailey Smith. His endurance is remarkable, averaging 92.5% Time on Ground (TOG) for the season, ensuring fewer concerns about extended bench time.
Jordan Dawson
Dawson is in contention for the Brownlow Medal. While he may not quite reach the heights of Bontempelli I see a lot of similarities in their game, he serves as a strong-bodied midfielder capable of bursting from stoppages and exploiting mismatches to kick goals. He ranks in the top 10 for tackles, kicks, and inside 50s, contributing to his status as the 5th ranked midfielder over recent rounds with an average of 123.2 points. In their last matchup at Adelaide Oval, he scored 140 SuperCoach points, demonstrating his high ceiling.
Chad Warner
This recommendation is largely matchup-based. Sydney’s recent form has been inconsistent, yet Warner faces a favorable opponent, as they are ranked as the easiest for opposing midfielders. Recent standout performances from Martin (163), Merrett (156), and Durham (122) highlight the potential for a breakout week for Warner, despite the inherent risk involved.
Round 13 Captain Options
Tristan Xerri
Xerri is the standout selection this week! He truly benefited from the bye, as his physical style of play has begun to take a toll. The West Coast is currently the most accommodating team for opposing rucks, having conceded significant scores recently, including O’Brien’s 161 and Marshall’s 179. In their last two encounters, Xerri scored 185 and 131 SuperCoach points, making this matchup one to watch closely.
Tom De Koning
Though DeKoning has experienced a dip in form, the bye should aid his recovery. While Goldstein has been solid in the ruck for Essendon, I expect DeKoning’s mobility to give him an edge, resulting in valuable hit-outs. In their previous matchup at this ground, he scored 146 SuperCoach points, making him a viable alternative if you do not have Xerri.
Max Gawn
Since Round 4, Gawn’s lowest score has been 110, balancing a high ceiling with a secure floor—an essential factor when selecting a captain. His season average stands at 130.3, with a five-round average of 144.4 SuperCoach points. Gawn’s consistency is well-documented, reinforcing his inclusion in this week’s selections.
Vice-Captains:
- Marcus Bontempelli
- Nick Martin
- Jordan Dawson
Captains:
- Tristan Xerri
- Tom DeKoning
- Max Gawn
