SAM Weideman’s all-star performance against Geelong has seen him poll nine votes towards the AFL Coaches Association Gary Ayres Award for the best player in the finals series.
The emerging tall had 24 disposals, three goals and seven marks in the 29-point Elimination Final win over the Cats.
Weideman was one of six Demons among the votes for the Gary Ayres Award.
Another breakout Melbourne performer, James Harmes, was recognised with eight votes after notching up 26 touches, 10 tackles and seven inside 50s.
Clayton Oliver (four votes), 2018 AFLCA Champion Player of the Year winner Max Gawn (four votes), Tom McDonald (three votes) and Angus Brayshaw (two votes) were the other Demons to receive votes.
After one week of finals, Weideman is one vote off the lead, which is jointly held by Richmond’s Dylan Grimes and West Coast’s Elliot Yeo.
MELBOURNE v GEELONG VOTES
9 Sam Weideman (MELB)
8 James Harmes (MELB)
4 Clayton Oliver (MELB)
4 Max Gawn (MELB)
3 Tom McDonald (MELB)
2 Angus Brayshaw (MELB)
GARY AYRES AWARD TOP FIVE
10 Dylan Grimes (RICH)
10 Elliot Yeo (WCE)
9 Toby Greene (GWS)
9 Sam Weideman (MELB)
8 Phil Davis (GWS)
