Recap

Duncan Robertson’s scouting notes:

Eastern Ranges:

#9 Jordan Haynes: an excellent game from the speedster from Heathmont, who destroyed the Apple Islanders from the outside of the packs. Very lightly framed, but penetrating through his pace and run and excellent by foot. Kicked a lovely long goal.

#11 Callum Brown: the father/son prospect’s match will have had Collingwood staff and supporters licking their lips. Unlike his famous Dad, he’s not big, but he more than makes up for it with pace and class around the stoppages and across half forward. Played more of a straight midfield role than perhaps is usual and kicked a couple of classy goals including a big bomb on the run.

#12 Dylan Clarke: strong-bodied midfielder was the driving force of the Eastern on ballers, but was more solid than spectacular despite his statistical impact. Kicked three goals and was strong around the contest. Looks to have picked up a yard of pace and physically could match it with the pros next week.

#51 Josh Begley: the myth, the man, the legend. A seriously impressive debut from the spearhead from UFTG, whose agility and burst speed at ground level, and powerful frame body and strong marking brought to mind Jake Stringer. He was simply too big, too strong and too quick all day for his opponents, but also found himself in the right spots and showed good game sense. His six majors should not be discounted for coming in a big win. One to watch.

Tasmania:
#14 Nick Dodge: one who could hold his head high, the overager found himself playing a more midfield role than last year, where his strong body was handy in close. Looks trimmed down from 2015, and was asked to put out spot fires down back in the second half, showing further versatility. Definitely draftable as a genuine utility.

#18 Ben McGuinnes: for me, Tasmania’s best on the day. Never stopped trying down back and on the ball and his rangy frame and booming left boot stood out, even more so than his putrid ‘do. Very athletic and agile for a tall lad and can play both tall and small.

#30 Liam Smith: despite jarring a knee early in a marking contest, the Glenorchy lad threw his body into contests on the ground and in the air with abandon. Another trier on a dirty day for Tassie, his hardness and attack on the ball was excellent.