HP's Rookie Profiles: Daniel Markworth

[Justin Bieber]

Name: Daniel Markworth
Position: Forward
Age (Draft Day): 19
Height: 189cm
Weight: 78kg



Markworth isn't the best footballer in the draft, but what he does have alot of is potential. He's got a very sporty background as he use to play Tennis and basketball, so you know he is very athletic. He usually plays up forward as a tall leadup forward. He's got great acceleration which helps in his lead up and his leaping ability isn't that bad either. He hasn't been playing that long but has a decent kick on him in which he can boot the ball 55m. Of course he is probably a more long term prospect than a right now kind of player. He is still in his early days of his AFL career so I'd watch for him in seasons to come as his athletic ability can do wonders in the forward 50. His speed also allows him the flexibility to move into the midfield although is usually kept up forward.

Markworth's Stats show quite the player. He managed 19 games for the Calder Cannons this season in the TAC Cup, 13 of which he finished in the Bests (Considering he's a forward, a great effort). He kicked 34 goals in the 19 games, including 5 hauls of 3+ goals. He seems cleaner with his hands than his boot, but he'll become more efficient with his boot with experience. He doesn't butcher the ball but it's a mixed result really. He can use his pace and apply forward 50 pressure, which I think many teams like in a player, especially a Big man. He's not a great contested marker as he prefers getting in front and letting the ball land with him.

Fantasy Relevant? As much as I want to say yes, have to say who knows. He seems like a great prospect to look at in 2-3 seasons time when he can bulk up a bit and gain some more skills to put with his abilities. He's an athletic freak which means teams would love him in their side to work on. Depending on where he goes, could see some gametime this season. His TAC form suggests he deserves a shot as a forward. He's expected to go first round but wouldn't be suprised to see him slip to the second round. He's got alot of potential which will sway teams in this fairly weak-ended draft.