That, of course meant that 28,948 coaches were without one of their premium defenders in a week that saw a number of top line defenders missing for their respective sides.
The Hawks’ match committee has included the defender in the 25-man squad, after overcoming a knee complaint for the big match against the Swans on Sunday.
So, if you managed to resist the temptation to trade him out, expect a big score from the Tasmanian in his home state. That is, if his record after missing a week is anything to go by.
Since 2008, Birchall has missed only five matches, illustrating his durability and importance to the Hawthorn side. On the odd occasion that he has missed a game, he has come back the next week in impressive fashion, rewarding the coaches who have held onto him. After missing Round 6 last season, the defender announced his return with a score of 91 in Round 7 against Port Adelaide from 22 disposals.
In 2009, he missed three matches, from Rounds 4-6 but returned to the Hawks side with a dazzling effort earning 28 disposals and seven marks, earning 104 Dream Team points.
If Birchall does return against the Swans, then he will be a welcome inclusion for many coaches, following a horror round for the Dream Team defenders in Round 4.
Round 5 spotlight
Jordan Lewis ($426,400) - The Hawks’ vice-captain is firming as an excellent choice for your Dream Team, as the midfielder is available as a dual position player this season (forward and midfield). Lewis has impressed with his consistent opening to the 2012 season, with scores of 89, 86, 86 and a season-high 101 last week against the Eagles. If that consistency continues, then he should be a lock for your forward line, particularly when considering his desire to put his body on the line each week. You know what you’re going to get from the number 3.
Cyril Rioli ($374,000) - While Rioli has provided Hawks fans with a number of dazzling highlights so far this season, that sparkle has been but a light in the distance when Dream Team is concerned. His effort against the Magpies netted coaches 79 points, a promising start for coaches, but a season-low 59 brings his average to just 66 points after four rounds. His price has thus decreased $55,700 and will continue to fall until two or three scores of 80 or more. While he has been a valuable contributor for the Hawks, and has stated that he can get better, don’t invest in him just yet. His price will continue to fall ahead of his inevitable rich vein of form hits.
Brent Guerra ($389,300) - Guerra has flown under the radar so far this season, and hasn’t been a popular Dream Team choice. This season though, the Hawks defender has used his elite kicking skills more often for his side, and is being given the ball more often. That has translated into a season-high score of 102 against the Crows and 84 against the Magpies in Round 1. His average is 82.3 and with only 5,487 coaches owning the defender, he is a unique option for your team who should be considered.
Who’s on the cusp?
Paul Puopolo ($355,600) - After sitting out the opening three rounds of football at all levels, Puopolo made a comeback via the VFL, with the Box Hill Hawks and was impressive in his first hit out. He has been included in the squad to take on the Swans on Sunday, but is last year’s buzz player one for our side this season? We’ll have to wait a few rounds to find out. Top 5 Hawks in Round 4
1. Sam Mitchell ($538,400) - 122
2. Jordan Lewis ($426,400) - 101
3. Matt Suckling ($432,400) - 93
4. Brad Sewell ($401,500) - 92
5. Brent Guerra ($398,300) - 79
Top 5 Hawks in 2012
1. Sam Mitchell ($538,400)
2. Lance Franklin ($474,200
3. Brendan Whitecross ($416,900)
4. Matt Suckling ($432,400)
5. Jordan Lewis ($426,400)
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.
