Upgrade? Retain? Delist? AFL.com.au's rookie watchJennifer Phelan
afl.com.au
June 12, 2014 RICHMONDTodd Banfield: Like Matt Thomas and Anthony Miles, was given another chance in last year's NAB AFL Rookie Draft after falling away at the Brisbane Lions. Has played regular football in the VFL – eight games in total – but hasn't really taken the world by storm and has been solid without starring. Has been playing in a variety of roles and most recently started forward before being sent down back.
Ben Darrou: The developing key defender in his third year at the club has been in good form recently. Has played eight VFL games this season at full back and at times in the forward line. Has been going well in a key defensive role and been winning solid contests while showing development in his defensive pressure.
Anthony Miles: Got his senior chance in round 12 after being upgraded for Jake King in late May. The former Greater Western Sydney midfielder looked good on debut in the yellow and black, and with 19 touches and eight clearances was one of a few highlights in the game where the Tigers were run over by North Melbourne. Before his AFL debut, Miles had performed well across his eight VFL games, including back-to-back best on ground performances in late April/early May.
Orren Stephenson: Was upgraded as a nominated rookie before the season with Ivan Maric's pre-season ankle injury stalling his start to the year. Played just the one game in round three with Ben Griffiths and Ty Vickery the combination usually paired with Shaun Hampson. Has played seven VFL games – listed in the best three times - and remains as solid back up in case of a big man disaster. Was best on ground against Essendon in the VFL's lead up to 'Dreamtime at the 'G' and won the Sir Doug Nicholls best player award for his efforts.
Matt Thomas: Was the second of the pre-season nominated rookies after being recruited from Port Adelaide in last year's NAB AFL Rookie Draft. Put in an impressive pre-season, culminating in a strong showing in the Tigers' practice match against Essendon, and played in round one against Gold Coast. Held his spot until after round five before a knee injury cost him three games. Put in a good game in the VFL and has been back in the seniors since round 10 but will now miss a week for rough conduct against Brent Harvey.
Cadeyn Williams: Had shoulder surgery over the pre-season and didn't come back until Christmas and then didn't play until round five in the VFL. The second-year rookie, who has suffered serious shoulder injuries for two consecutive years, played his best game for the year against Essendon recently with one goal and 16 disposals, plus several shots on goal while holding down a tagging role. Has now played four games and is building his form.
Summary: The Tigers upgraded Miles for King (toe) ahead of round 11, with the small forward already on the long-term injury list. With King scheduled for a return in 4-6 weeks, David Astbury (knee) could be added to the list in the second half of the season to allow Miles to remain eligible for senior selection. If they were to choose another, Cadeyn Williams is building his form but has only played four games this year or they could choose to have a look at Ben Darrou at senior level in his third season.
http://www.afl.com.au/news/2014-06-11/rookie-watch