We all know that Hodge has a big heart, is one of the most determined and courageous players in the game, but did anyone really expect him to perform the way he did against Essendon last Friday night?
Not even Coach Alastair Clarkson though Hodge had it in him, when Clarkson descrbied Hodge’s return as “beyond his wildest dreams”.
Hodge kicked five goals, had 16 disposals and took six marks in just three quarters of football. He started on the bench and received a loud cheer as he stepped across the white line for the first time - all indicators pointed to the Hawks easing the skipper back when he ran to full forward.
Instead though, Hodge played like a man who has been fit and firing all season, not like a player who has battled calf and knee injuries and managed just two matches this season.
In his return game, Hodge notched up 94 Dream Team points to be a valauable contributer to teams around Australia. He warmed the hearts not just of Hawks fans, but Dream Teamers in general.
Just 4,247 coaches own the Hawks utility, and they would have been ecstatic with his return in Round 18.
Despite his score, his price dropped a massive $37,000 to $430,300. He is prime for the taking and he couldn’t have timed his return any better, with Dream Team finals just around the corner.
If you haven’t got the Hawks star, trade him in now. He faces the Cats this weekend, he’s pulled up well from his first hit out and we all know how much he loves to face Geelong. Norm Smith Medal anyone?
What are you waiting for? Bring him in.
Round 19 spotlight
Brendan Whitecross ($436,000) - We highlight him almost every week, but it’s just because he keeps delivering. He notched a massive 133 against the Bombers after being arguably the best player on the ground. He’s playing more in midfield and if his last score against the Cats is anything to go by (118 points), he should score big again this weekend. Luke Breust ($363,000) - We highlighted him last week, but Breust keeps delivering. He’s growing in confidence, is enjoying more time in the midfield and coaches are reaping the benefits. He’s averaging 85.3 points in his last three matches, and 84.6 in his last five.
Cyril Rioli ($436,800) - Is he back in Dream Team form or what? Rioli’s ability to combine tackling, pressure and find the footy is resulting in some big scores in the Dream Team arena. Scores 129 against the Bombers last week and is averaging 98.7 in his last three games. Over his last five games though, his average is a massive 105.2.
Top 5 Hawks in Round 18
1. Brendan Whitecross ($436,000) - 133
2. Cyril Rioli ($436,800) - 129
3. Matt Suckling ($353,600) - 112
4. Sam Mitchell ($489,400) - 109
5. Isaac Smith ($339,500) - 101
Top 5 Hawks in 2012
1. Sam Mitchell ($489,400)
2. Brendan Whitecross ($436,000)
3. Jarryd Roughead ($438,800)
4. Matt Suckling ($353,600
5. Cyril Rioli ($436,800)
