In his first game of 2012, Shiels did what Dream Teamers became accustomed to from the midfielder last season - racking up the points to finish on 98. That only bodes well for the 1,748 coaches who benefitted from his return as he is likely to get better, gaining match fitness in the seniors.
At his price ($508,400), however, Shiels may not be a lock in many Dream Teams. Coaches will be worried that invested over $500,000 may be too big a risk, and instead opt for a more seasoned performer. The good news is though, that with only 1,748 coaches owning Shiels, he is a unique pick that could be the difference to a Dream Team victory or defeat. Watching his next three or four weeks could be an option if you're worried about his pricetag.
Round 4 spotlight
Jarryd Roughead ($414,600) - Last week we thought that the big forward might not be an option for Dream Teamers until later in the season, once he settles back into senior football, but he proved us wrong last week. In the absence of ruckman Broc McCauley, Roughead took the number 1 ruck mantle and showed that the Achilles injury that derailed his 2011 season, will not hamper his output in 2012. Roughead scored 110 point against the Crows as he battled hard with aggression and made his presence felt. Add him to your watch list, and see how he goes in the next three to five rounds to see if he continues to deliver.
Brendan Whitecross ($412,000) - We’ve highlighted the ermerging forward for three consecutive weeks now, and he keeps giving us reasons to talk about him. If we had Whitecross fever last week, then this week we’ve started an epidemic. He scored a massive 122 Dream Team points against the Crows, taking his season average to 111.7, with 95 his lowest score. His price rose by $34,200 but is likely to keep rising as he keeps delivering. Become one of the 6,287 coaches who have him, and spread the love.
Who’s on the cusp?
Top 5 Hawks in Round 3
1. Josh Gibson $354,700 - 151
2. Brendan Whitecross ($412,000) - 122
3. Lance Franklin ($497,900) - 118
4. Jarryd Roughead ($414,600) - 110
5. Matt Suckling ($441,300) - 102
Top 5 Hawks in 2012
1. Sam Mitchell ($545,700)
2. Brendan Whitecross ($412,000)
3. Lance Franklin ($497,900)
4. Grant Birchall ($437,600)
5. Matt Suckling (441,300)
Join Hawthorn Football Club's official Dream Team league by entering the league code 288223 for your chance to win a signed 2012 Hawthorn jumper!
Kate Salemme is a member of Hawthorn Football Club’s digital media team reporting exclusively for hawthornfc.com.au from the Ricoh Centre.
Read the full Round 4 Hawks team
Check out Bradley Hill's dribble kicking skills this week on Ozzie's Challenge.
