Brownlow Medallist Adam Cooney has named the club and player that’s surprised him the most so far in 2022.
Cooney says St Kilda has exceeded his pre-season expectations, with the Saints currently in fourth spot on the ladder with an 8-3 win-loss record.
After missing the finals last season, St Kilda is well placed to make the eight at the halfway mark of the season.
“I’ll go with St Kilda as my surprise packet. They’re obviously in the four at the moment,” Cooney told SEN Drive.
Max King has gone to another level, I think (Jade) Gresham’s been terrific, (Jack) Sinclair’s in All-Australian form, Dougal Howard holding down that key position post, Bradley Hill back in some sparkling touch, (Rowan) Marshall and (Paddy) Ryder working well together.
“They’re playing the sort of footy that I wasn’t 100 per cent certain they would get to.
“I’m not sure they’ll finish the year in position four, the Saints, but very happy with how they’re tracking at the moment.”
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The former Western Bulldogs and Essendon midfielder has also been impressed by Gold Coast tall Mabior Chol.
Chol, who arrived at the Suns from Richmond in last year’s trade period, has kicked a career-high 23 goals from 11 games this year.
“I didn’t expect him and his development to come along as quickly as it has,” Cooney said.
“He showed glimpses at Richmond, but I’ve loved his consistency this season. He’s had some big games and helped them get the four points in those big games.
“I think he’s put together a really good season.
“It’s the cheapest functioning forward line in the AFL and they’re doing it very, very well at the moment.”
SEN Drive host Andy Maher added: “He and Levi Casboult have been together one of the real surprise packets of the year.
“I think a lot of use thought that once Ben King was gone, that’s it for Gold Coast, but these two have done a magnificent job along side one another.”
Chol and Casboult have booted 44 goals between them to help the improving Suns stay in touch with the top eight.