Last week we asked our fans to make their predictions on six big topics ahead of the 2018 season. Here are the results!
Rayner is expected to make the biggest splash
It comes as no surprise that Lions fans think number one draft pick Cam Rayner will make the biggest impression of the new draftees in 2018.
Rayner commanded 71% of the vote, followed by exciting midfielder Zac Bailey on 13% and key defender Jack Payne on 11%.
Lions Coach Chris Fagan looks likely to hand Rayner his AFL debut this weekend against the Saints.
Hipwood to shine
56% of Lions fans think Eric Hipwood will be the Club’s leading goalkicker in 2018, followed by Dayne Zorko on 22%.
Zorko led the count in 2017 with 34 majors, while Hipwood ran a close second with 30.
New recruit Charlie Cameron is predicted to add a bit extra to the Lions’ attack, attracting 11% of the vote.
An improved finish
Lions fans are expecting an improved finishing position in 2018.
64% think the Lions will finish around the 9-14 mark.
8% of fans are confident the Lions will finish in the top eight.
Four straight?
Will Dayne Zorko claim his fourth straight Merrett Murray Medal this season?
Fans were split on this question with 53% thinking he will.
Zorko's impressive JLT pre-season hit-out against the Gold Coast Suns suggests that he will definitely be one of the team's best again in 2018.
How many for Hodge?
Chris Fagan thinks Luke Hodge will play around 15 games for the Lions this season and fans agree.
92% of Lions fans predict Hodgey will play between 10 and 20 games this year.
The former Hawthorn star has enjoyed an uninterrupted pre-season which has him set up for a strong year.
Bigger and better
Last year’s top three draft picks, Hugh McCluggage, Jarrod Berry and Alex Witherden, are tipped by fans to have big second years at the Club.
McCluggage garnered 33% of the vote on which second-year player will make the biggest impact this year, followed by Witherden on 29% and Berry on 23%.
