The Magpies enjoyed the ultimate success last season,but the Brisbane Lions have greater support when it comes to picking a grand finalist among the 18 AFL club captains.Credit:AFL Photos
Collingwood,the Lions,Carlton,Greater Western Sydney,Melbourne and Sydney were the clear top six when the captains were asked to nominate which teams – aside from their own – could make the top eight. However,Adelaide (10) also received encouraging support,despite not playing finals since losing the 2017 grand final.
While Gold Coast under new coach Damien Hardwick are expected to improve,only four captains nominated them to make the finals,suggesting a list full of talent still has work to do if the club is to finally enjoy a breakthrough September campaign.
The Bulldogs (six) had some support,but the Cats were a surprise non-selection,with only two captains expecting the 2022 premiers to return to September. The Cats missed the finals last season. Coach Chris Scott is confident his men can make the leap,but has said the Cats will not be afraid to change direction if it’s felt the time to refresh is required.
The Saints were beaten in an elimination final by the Giants last season and,despite a strong pre-season campaign,and impressive emerging youngsters,led by star Max King,were tipped by only three captains to make the top eight.
Hawthorn,West Coast and North Melbourne had no support to make the finals.
Bontempelli,having fallen two votes short last year,and polled more than 20 votes in four different counts,is the overwhelming favourite to claim the sport’s highest individual honour. The superstar Bulldog was the choice of 10 captains,with Collingwood ball-magnet Nick Daicos the only other player to have at least two votes.