The North veteran takes on emerging Swans midfielder
Nick Dal Santo
GAMES: 284
GOALS: 149
SEASON TO DATE: Dal Santo came to the Kangaroos as a big name recruit after 12 seasons at St Kilda, seeking to add to a side that had finals aspirations. After a relatively slow start, Dal Santo began to find his feet. His poise and experience was fillip for a developing group, as the 30-year-old averaged a touch under 25 disposals a game.
FINALS TO DATE: Dal Santo was solid in North's gripping win elimination final win over Essendon, but he caught fire against Geelong. Racked up an equal game-high 35 touches and a splendid goal from a tight angle. His performance against the Cats validated his off-season recruitment.
WEAPON: When he has the Sherrin in his hands, Dal Santo's poise has always been a key feature of his game. More often than not he picks out the right target and executes with aplomb.
WEAKNESS: As balanced a runner as he is, Dal Santo has never been possessed with breakaway speed. He makes up for it in other ways, but at times he can be found out in transition.
- Ben Guthrie
Dan Hannebery celebrates with fans after the Swans' qualifying final triumph. Picture: AFL Media
Dan Hannebery
GAMES: 118
GOALS: 54
SEASON TO DATE: A little quiet to commence the season, Hannebery caught fire as the Swans' form improved from round five onwards. An ankle injury then kept him out between rounds 14-19, but he quickly got back to his best upon his return and for the year has averaged a career-best 25.7 possessions and 5.2 tackles per game.
FINALS TO DATE: A natural big-game performer, Hannebery was desperately unlucky not to take out the 2012 Norm Smith Medal. In this year's qualifying final victory over Fremantle, he had 27 touches, six tackles and a goal to be a key part of the Swans' triumph.
WEAPON: Hannebery's two-way running ability is almost unmatched in the competition, while he has a knack for kicking crucial goals or taking a big grab just when his side needs it.
WEAKNESS: His kicking efficiency used to be a minor issue, but Hannebery has worked diligently on that, while he has occasionally struggled to break a tight tag. Otherwise it's hard to fault the 23-year-old.
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Be part of AFL Opening Round to kick-off the 2025 Toyota AFL Premiership Season in QLD. March 6-9. Brisbane Lions host Geelong at the GABBA and Gold Coast SUNS take on Essendon at People First Stadium.