SANFL Media’s ZAC MILBANK shines a light on club nominees for the weekly AAMI Talent League Boys MVP award.
A strong presence at the centre stoppages, the tall midfielder racked up 36 disposals, 15 clearances, six marks and a goal against the Tigers.
“It was a welcome sight to have Archie back in the side this week. After an interrupted season, his return was nothing short of outstanding, especially considering it was only his third game of the year.
Archie was a contested-ball beast around the stoppages, consistently winning first possession and giving our midfield ascendency through his clearance work. He complemented his ball-winning ability with outstanding defensive intent, laying strong tackles and competing relentlessly in every contest.
”His influence became so significant that after half-time the opposition assigned extra attention to him at stoppages, and in transition, in an attempt to curb his impact. Despite the extra attention, Archie refused to be taken out of the game, continuing to find the football, create opportunities for his teammates and have a major influence in the game.”
South Adelaide Talent Manager Bryce Gibbs
JOEL KOTSANO
Local Club: Willaston FC
Disposals – 23
Clearances – 11
Marks – 3
Tackles – 4
“Joel Kotsano was judged our best player on the weekend against Norwood. Joel, playing as a midfielder, was instrumental in our win. His strength was his ability to get his hands on the ball and break from the contest with leg speed.”
Central Talent Manager Scott Stevens
GABE PATTERSON
Local Club: Plympton FC
Disposals – 14
Marks – 6
Scores – 5.1
“Gabe was dynamic, either up forward taking marks or snapping goals. He also impacted when thrown in the midfield.
Glenelg Talent Manager Darren Trevena
SAM TASSONE
Local Club: Irymple FC (Victoria)
Disposals – 28
Marks – 6
Scores – 1.0
”Sam has been terrific in the games he has played for us this year and was again a strong contributor on the weekend. Sam often starts our chain of play from half-back, and his composure with the ball, along with his ability to find time and space, is a real feature of his game. His decision-making and ball use continue to provide great drive and stability for our team.”
North Talent Manager & Under-18 Coach Nick Liddle
WILLIAM TANNER
Local Club: Payneham FC
Disposals – 25
Marks – 10
Scores – 1.0
”Will’s competitiveness is so strong and he is a very classy inside mid who we are excited about going forward playing higher levels.”
Norwood Talent Manager Craig Roberts
WILL EKBERG
Local Club: Mount Barker FC
Disposals – 24
Marks – 12
Clearances – 4
Tackles – 4
Scores – 1.0
”Will produced another outstanding performance, with his consistency around the ground a real highlight as he impacted every phase of the game. His marking ability was on full display, finishing with 12 marks to provide a strong aerial presence. He also capped off his performance with an excellent goal from outside 50, rewarding his hard work and influence around the ground.”
Sturt Talent Manager and U18 Coach Scott Prebble
JOSH WOOLDRIDGE
Local Club: Loxton North FC
Disposals – 29
Marks – 9
Clearances – 4
Tackles – 5
”Josh was prolific on both sides of the ball, again.”
West Talent Manager and U18 Coach Alex Pigou
LACHLAN MARSHALL-BATES
Local Club: SMOSH West Lakes FC
Disposals – 19
Marks – 7
Scores – 4.2
Tackles – 2
”Playing as a key foward, Lachie took 7 marks & kicked 4 goals.”
Eagles Talent Manager Darren Hams
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