The age of the power full-forward may be a thing of the past, however the AFL still boasts some incredible goal-scoring talent that is lighting up crowds and scoreboards across the nation. We’ve taken a look at some of the talent that is likely to head the goal-kickers’ list for the upcoming season.
- Josh Kennedy (West Coast):
With his stratospheric numbers, intimidating physique and devastating speed, Kennedy is so far ahead of the pack that the bookies calculating odds on AFL betting would be scrambling for cover. If he can improve his accuracy and stay healthy, he is every chance to reach the magical 100 goal threshold this season and win back-to-back Colemans.
- Eddie Betts (Adelaide):
The perennial goal-sneak can electrify a crowd with his lightning speed and freakish skills. Since moving from Carlton, he has reveled in the stronger network around him and with 63 goals last season, the results speak from themselves. The question remains as to whether he has what it takes to compete with the current crop of power forwards.
- Jeremy Cameron (GWS):
At 22 years of age, Cameron is already a genuine superstar of the game and can only get better. As GWS continue to mature and improve in the competition, it is almost a foregone conclusion that Cameron will come into serious contention for the Coleman at some stage in the near future. If they can make the 8 this year, it is inevitable that Cameron will finish the season with a serious swag of goals.
- Taylor Walker (Adelaide):
Another young, imposing figure, “Tex”’s maturity and skill have been recognized via his elevation to captain at a tender age. His powerful overhead skills, accuracy and sheer on-field presence mean that literally anything is possible for this truly exceptional talent.
- Jack Riewoldt (Richmond):
Riewoldt has reaped the rewards of the Tiger’s emergence as a true AFL force in 2015. His skill and outstanding football brain were never under question, however the improved service from a firing midfield make him a powerful presence up forward.
- Jack Stringer (Western Bulldogs):
At 21 years of age, 192cm and 91kg, Stringer’s numbers are as scary as his imposing physique. His strength at the ball and ability to beat a defender one-on-one mark him as a prospect from whom literally anything is possible. With the Bulldogs emerging as a credible contender, Stringer can only go from strength to strength. The only question is whether this will be his breakout year, or does he require some more time to hone his trade?
- Jack Gunston (Hawthorn):
One of the most polished performers, with arguably the deadliest accuracy from set shots in the League, Gunston promises to provide prolonged strength for the Hawks’ forward line. Word on the street is that he has been hitting the weights over the off-season to add muscle, so he promises to give plenty of defenders nightmares. With the Hawk’s embarrassment of riches of genuine goalscoring options such as Roughhead, Rioli and Breust sharing the spoils, his own teammates may represent his greatest hurdle in the quest for the Coleman.
- Lance Franklin (Sydney): Between his battles with form, back injury and mental health, 2015 was a relatively quiet year for one of the League’s biggest names. However, if he can keep his body and his mind healthy, there can be no doubt that Buddy will stamp his authority on the season and put his name right up there.
Irrespective of which team you follow, one thing is for certain: with this kind of talent running around the stadiums of Australia, 2016 is shaping up to be at sensational season.