Matthew Broadbent wins Fos Williams Medal

By ZAC MILBANK

South Adelaide’s Matthew Broadbent provided the composed, wise head for the West End State Team en route to claiming the Fos Williams Medal as SA’s best player.

As the WAFL continued to stay in the game with goals in the final minute of the first and second quarters, it was Broadbent who led the way in answering the call of West End State Coach Jade Sheedy to slow the play down after half-time.

The Panthers’ veteran teamed nicely with his weekly teammate Bryce Gibbs in ensuring SANFL would retain possession, finishing with 29 disposals and 11 marks in his customary role across half-back.

Speaking on SANFL Radio, Broadbent said he loved the opportunity to make his senior debut for his state, marveling at the team spirit built amongst SANFL’s squad in such a short space of time.

The former Power defender said there was always something special about donning the cherished red guernsey, revealing the playing group had it referred to as the ”superman suit” by Chairman of Selectors Stephen Rowe before the bounce.

One of SA’s most revered State coaches in Graham Cornes and gutsy rover Brett James also had an influence by visiting training during the week in the build up to the match.