We now take a look at the players who are going to try and stop the goals on the weekend, the DEFENDERS in the Peter Jackson VFL Grand Final.
PORT MELBOURNE
7. CORY McGRATH
2011 games/goals: 12 (133) / 7 (62)
Another veteran of the club’s 2008 Grand Final. Former Carlton and Essendon player who brings a wealth of big game experience with him. Provides a cool head, reads play particularly well and his long left foot kicking is a feature of his game.
8. STEPHEN BREWER
2011 games/goals: 13 (116) / 9 (0)
Attacking defender whose penetrating left foot kicking and dash from defence are a staple of his game. Represented the VFL and named in last year’s VFL Team of the Year. Former Williamstown player, now in his fifth season with Port. Played in Port Melbourne’s 2008 Grand Final team.
23. HUGH SANDILANDS
2011 games/goals: 17 (27) / 2 (3)
Break-through season for this emerging young defender who was named for the first time in the VFL Team of the Year. Second season with Port Melbourne after spending time on Hawthorn rookie list. Tall, athletic defender who is strong in the air, good below his knees and a penetrating left foot kick.
31. JARROD DALTON
2011 games/goals: 20 (75) / 1 (11)
Named for the second successive year as the full back in the VFL Team of the Year. Played every match this season where he has held firm in the last line of defence. Now in his fifth season with the Borough. Reads play well, prepared to back himself and generates drive from defence while subduing his opponent.
36. SAM PLEMING
2011 games/goals: 20 (152) / 3 (36)
Enjoyed milestone season where he played his 100th match for Port Melbourne and 150th VFL match as well as being named as the VFL Team of the Year’s centre half back for second consecutive season. Showed his versatility in Preliminary Final when went forward to kick two telling goals.
WILLIAMSTOWN
7. DAVID STRETTON
2011 games/goals: 18 (91) / 7 (45)
Long serving Williamstown player who has won an A. Todd Medal for best and fairest in the VFL Reserves as well as being named in the 2008 VFL Team of the Year and represented the VFL. Played mainly in defence this season and may get the job on Ryan McMahon or one of the other small Port forwards.
16. DANE RAMPE
2011 games/goals: 17 (21) / 4 (5)
Williamstown listed player who has enjoyed fine season in this his second season at the club. Carved a niche for himself coming off a back flank or deeper in defence. Reads play well, good in air and on ground and uses the ball effectively.
22. DYLAN ADDISON
2011 games/goals: 13 (57) / 3 (7)
Western Bulldogs player who can be used in a run with midfield role or as a permanent defender. Strong concentration and can subdue big name opposition play makers. Unflinching approach to the ball and a contest.
31. JAMES MULLIGAN
2011 games/goals: 12 (19) / 0 (1)
Former Queenslander who was rookie listed then elevated to primary list by Western Bulldogs over the past four seasons. Dour defender who may be given the role on one of Port’s resting ruckmen.
43. ED BARLOW
2011 games/goals: 11 (11) / 9 (9)
Western Bulldog rookie who split the season between the VFL and AFL. Tall, attacking defender who is a very good mark as well as playing the percentages well. Generates plenty of drive from defence.
*Brackets career stats
Last Modified on 23/09/2011 23:08