Premium Subs?

The roller coaster that is Dream Team has just been renovated. The new double loop that is the substitute rule is set to inflict some high blood pressure and heart-ache on coaches this year.

“That cash-cow is looking pretty ripe, break even of only 55 hey? no ill give him one more week”… HALF TIME SUB score: 21. Ripe? Hell no that fruit is rotting on the tree!

But these inevitable frustrations are nothing compared to what is to come. Gone are the days of the dreaded GENERAL SORENESS. I mean why would a coach give you a guaranteed do-nut that, albeit annoying, can at least be planned for? No they have something much more sinister in mind. Because all the DPPs in the league wont save you this year when “resting a player” no longer means a week off. Modern coaches sure don’t play DT: “well played son! here have a break, sit on the bench FOR HALF THE GAME! Oh but your score counts… oops nearly forgot, F#$k YOU DT COACHES!”

And our precious premiums? Imagine Micky M, round 23, “Well Swanny you broken the Dockers back but I want you fresh coming into finals! Catch your breath mate – from the sideline!”

Will this stop you picking Swan? – absolutely not! but all this does potentially have DT selection implications. Beware or at least be-aware of  your player and his coaches resting history. Saint and Cat stars particularly near the end of the season if their ladder position is as certain as 2010.

But there is an upside – mid season trading.

• Player under done? – give him half a game.
• Player coming back from injury? – half a game.
• Not quite match fit? – half a game.

This will make for some great bargains. Chappy coming back round 1 or 2? half game. Hodge round 1. half game. Players nearly always lose value from injuries but they have the potential to lose twice the value this year if they make a few come-back games as subs or are subbed off early on return. If you are selecting some under-done premiums this year – think twice.

Good luck

by Vaughn.