As I am literally zero chance of winning this season, I’m more than happy to give away my “secrets” including my Top 5 MUST HAVE players.
Thanks to all of those who quickly filled the Zero Tackle Super Coach Leagues. Due to the incredible support, I have opened two new leagues, codes are 801396 and 626140.
These are not player I believe will be “keepers” or will even score that well, but given that the first few weeks aren’t counted toward the league contests, players considered “cash cows” are key.
For those who haven’t played before or haven’t hear the terms above, “keeper” means a player who should not be traded out, while “cash cow” means a player who will increase in value, allowing upgrades as your salary cap will increase.
Below are the five players I believe EVERY side should contain.
1. Manaia Cherrington (Tigers) - $138,700
For those who missed it, Robbie Farah will miss the first month of competition after surgery, while Matt Ballin will also start his season a few weeks in. This means Cherrington, at only $138,700 is the Tiger’s first choice hooker. Although Halatau and Rankin may take some minutes off him, he’ll have at least four or so games to increase in value. Give he will make 30 tackles a game, that’s enough to see his value rise early.
2. Dale Copley (Roosters) - $178,500
At under $200,000 Copley is a steal. He’ll play in the centres for the tri-colours after Michael Jennings exit from the club. Despite the fact the Roosters will be sans Corder, JWH and Pearce in the early rounds, Copley should still see plenty of ball and rack up a few points. He’s certainly not an early favourite to be a gun centre, but should be on your bench to earn price rises which are almost certain.
3. Jackson Hastings (Roosters) - $133,500
With the departure of Maloney and suspension of Pearce, Hastings will be the senior partner in the Rooster’s halves in the early rounds. At starting half at this price needs to be played, but it is Hastings who presents the best point scoring potential. He played brilliantly when Pearce was out last season and will be given the kicking duties, which should translate into points.
4. Ben Barba (Sharks) - $184,100
Once again, I don’t buy into the Shane Flanagan Bird bluff and believe Barba will start round one in the fullback role. At $184,100, it’s no gamble. If he does somehow start from the bench, it’s easy enough to trade him to Kurt Mann if chosen at fullback, or one of the Roosters halves if picked in the halves. His pre-season form has been brilliant and he looks a step or two quicker than he has since his Dally M winning season. If he scores a few tries early, his value will sky rocket. A gamble worth taking.
5. Sam Burgess (Rabbitohs) - $423,700
Don’t even think about it, he should be the first player picked. Given the “outs” in the Rabbitohs pack, Burgess is once again the main man and will do PLENTY of work and even more damage. Only severe injury can stop him from being the best player across the entire game.