Cyril Rioli (Hawthorn)
Cyril Rioli caught fire against Richmond last week, kicking three second-half goals from just 11 disposals and sparking the Hawks to a big win over the Tigers.
Rioli is on track for a career-best return in terms of goals kicked in 2016, kicking at least one goal in every one of his last 14 games.
His contribution on the scoreboard is certainly easing the pain of Jarryd Roughead’s absence.
Brendan Whitecross (Hawthorn)
After finally breaking back into the senior side, Brendan Whitecross looks determined to stay there.
He didn’t waste many of the 18 disposals he had against the Tigers, going at 88.9% efficiency and taking nine marks.
His efforts would warm the hearts of all Hawks fans and if there is a guy who deserves an extended run in the senior team and some success, it’s ‘Whitey’.
Grant Birchall (Hawthorn)
Grant Birchall was outstanding last week and continues to be a consistent contributor week in, week out for the Hawks.
After finding more of the ball in the midfield last week to record five inside 50s along with 27 disposals and ten marks, the Tasmanian local will want to produce another quality performance in his home state.
Patrick Cripps (Carlton)
Patrick Cripps was at his contested best last week against the Swans, recording a season-high 22 individual contested possessions as he did all he could to try and get the Blues across the line.
His tall build and clean skills in tight makes him a danger whether he’s playing in the midfield or up forward, and the Hawks will want to keep a close eye on him.
Sam Docherty (Carlton)
Sam Docherty is having a career-best season at Carlton after being traded from the Brisbane Lions at the end of 2013 – a real win for the Blues considering they only gave up pick 33 in that year’s draft to get the defender.
The running defender plays the perfect sweeping role in defence, averaging over five rebound 50s per game in 2016 and using his quality kicking skills to set Carlton up coming out of the backline.
