In the lead up to Sunday’s Grand Final, we take a look at a selection of key players to take to the field this weekend. We start with the FORWARDS
PORT MELBOURNE
5. DEAN GALEA
2011 games/goals: 19 (78) / 65 (193)
An ex-Seagull who also had his best season. Proved a perfect foil for Rose. Strong, lead-up player who has vice-like grip and most reliable shot for goal. Named as full forward in VFL Team of the Year. Outstanding in Preliminary Final with five first half goals.
9. PATRICK ROSE
2011 games/goals: 20 (113) / 74 (284)
Former Williamstown player who crossed to Port Melbourne this season after he was delisted from Western Bulldogs rookie list. Comes off career-best year where he won the Jim ‘Frosty’ Miller Medal, named in the VFL Team of the Year for the second time and kicked a personal best 74 goals.
14. RYAN McMAHON
2011 games/goals: 19 (205) / 26 (140)
One of the club’s all-time greats now in his 12th season with the club. Played his 200th game this season and his experience and footy smarts will prove invaluable. Fearless player who sets the tone for all his teammates. Strong at the contest, livewire near goal.
29. CHRIS CAIN
2011 games/goals: 20 (86) / 34 (109)
Classy midfield whose excellent season was recognised by his first selection in the VFL Team of the Year. Hard running, pacey midfielder with good skills and who proved most dangerous around goals as evidenced by his 34 goals this season.
WILLIAMSTOWN
8. MITCH HAHN
2011 games/goals: 16 (50) / 39 (65)
Western Bulldog 10-year player who has spent the season entirely with Williamstown where his on field leadership has complimented his very good season. Led the club goal kicking. Provides a strong marking option, always makes a contest and brings teammates into game. Key player for the Seagulls.
11. SAM REID
2011 games/goals: 16 (48) / 20 (40)
Western Bulldogs player who only played four games in the AFL this season. Comes off great match against Werribee in last week’s Preliminary Final where he kicked five goals. Strong, powerfully built mobile player who can pinch hit in a number of positions.
41. ANDREW HOOPER
2011 games/goals: 15 (37) / 27 (63)
Western Bulldogs player, spent most of the season with Williamstown but also spent time in the AFL. Industrious small, opportunistic forward. Kicked three goals in the win against Werribee last week.
48. MATTHEW PANOS
2011 games/goals: 13 (23) / 25 (46)
Western Bulldogs rookie who has really come of age over the past few months. Enjoyed a most productive final series. Strong upper body strength, good hands and kicks well.
* career totals in brackets
Last Modified on 22/09/2011 18:06