ROUND three tested the strongest coaches with a large number of 'reliable' premiums falling well short of what you would expect from even a rookie. On the other hand, sanity was thankfully maintained with ten players scoring over 130.

Fantasy Pig

Stefan Martin took full advantage of the Power’s lack of ruck stocks with a Fantasy performance for the ages. He had a whopping 49 hit outs to go with 30 possessions, seven marks and seven tackles for a career-high score of 177. He was down last week vs Max Gawn but all is certainly forgiven.

Honourable mention: After 134 last week, Jarryd Lyons is quietly getting it done. He was in beast mode against the Dockers, laying an impressive ten tackles to complement his 30 disposals, six marks and two goals for 151. He is currently owned by 0.66 per cent of the competition if you are in the market for a unique.

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Rage Trades

Zach Merrett What's going on? For the 19 per cent of coaches that gave him one more week, they won't let it happen again. He is basically unrecognisable for a player that was short listed as a potential Pig last season. After being excused following his round one knock out, his next two scores have been just as disappointing. The Dogs have been giving up a heap of points and he could only manage 13 possessions and 60 Fantasy points. He has dropped a phenomenal amount of money, but has to be traded.

Honourable mention: Adam Treloar is another former Fantasy star who looks a shadow of his former self. He is not attending centre bounces, playing forward and the most concerning thing is it appears he is actively avoiding tackling. Something is up with Treloar and it might be a good idea to do something about it before he is under $500,000.

Honourable mention: Elliot Yeo swiftly reminded coaches of the yo-yo effect. He had a massive last ten minutes to save his score, eventually finishing on 46. It was never going to be smooth sailing for his coaches, but this was a harsh reminder.

NINE THINGS WE LEARNED: The key points of round three

Piglet

Tim English embraced his opportunity to play as the No.1 ruck and as long as that continues, he deserves a spot on the ground. He had 19 hit-outs, 17 touches and an impressive six marks to confirm the Dogs are not afraid to use the big fella.

Nick Coffield fitted right in on debut for the Saints and will be a popular downgrade target this week. He had 18 possessions and took six marks while going at 88 per cent which does his job security no harm at all.

PUTTING THEIR HANDS UP: State leagues wrap

The top five

  • Stef Martin: 177
  • Jarryd Lyons: 151
  • Lachie Hunter: 148
  • Tom Mitchell: 148
  • Nat Fyfe: 144

Trade targets

  • Nick Coffield
  • Nat Fyfe
  • Jarryd Lyons
  • Bryce Gibbs
  • Lachie Hunter 

Fantasy Mailbag

This tweet summed up how many of us were feeling … especially owners of Yeo Yeo.

Stating the obvious, but if you can find the cash to go up, Gibbs looks the pick of the bunch. Merrett is the higher priority. I am always one that leans toward holding premiums, but if you have a luxury trade, don’t be afraid to send Billings packing either. Buddy looks as good as I have ever seen him if you can grab some cash.

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