Footy was back on the weekend with five 2012 Peter Jackson VFL players appearing in the 2013 NAB Cup competition which kicked off last Friday at Etihad Stadium.
Match one saw the media scrutinised Essendon Football Club take on the Western Bulldogs. It was here that mature aged rookie Brett Goodes showcased his ability for the Dogs. Goodes was drafted from Williamstown Football Club in 2012 and at 29 years of age brought a level of experience and composure to the Bulldogs backline on Friday. In his two matches against Essendon and Collingwood, Goodes amassed 13 disposals, five marks and three tackles.
However, it was Collingwood that presented the most VFL talent with three former state league players taking to the field for the first time. Kyle Martin (Frankston), Sam Dwyer (Port Melbourne) and Jack Frost (Williamstown - pictured) were each rookied to Collingwood at the end of last year and made the most of their time in the spotlight on Friday.
Only taking part in one match, Martin was the standout, accruing seven disposals, three marks and two tackles whilst only playing 62% game time. His ability to make the jump to the next level of football with ease resulted in his name appearing in the teams best for the match.
Dwyer and Frost took part in both matches, racking up six and seven disposals respectively for the night. A product of the VFL Academy, Frost demonstrated his eagerness to be involved in each contest, collecting one percenters on five occasions.
Interstate, two more Peter Jackson VFL players took to AFL fields for the first time.
Kyle Hartigan (pictured) was the final player to fly the flag for the VFL, taking to the field for the Adelaide Crows. The former Werribee Tiger accrued three disposals in each of his games against St. Kilda and Port Adelaide.
Former Port Melbourne player Callum Sinclair represented the West Coast Eagles after being recruited from WAFL club Subiacoin the 2012 NAB AFL Rookie Draft. Sinclair’s effective work in the ruck resulted in being named in the Eagles best players against Geelong.
Next weekend could see three more former Peter Jackson VFL players make their first appearance for their new AFL Clubs when Melbourne, Gold Coast and Sydney play in the NAB Cup.
Last Modified on 18/02/2013 17:06