A NEW recruit and a flurry of Melbourne stars have been recognised by the coaches during Round 1. 

Melbourne’s 45-point win over the Western Bulldogs on Sunday afternoon saw five Demons receive votes in the race for the AFLCA’s Champion Player of the Year.

Clayton Oliver topped the Sunday leaderboard collecting nine votes, thanks to a standout game consisting of 35 disposals, 589 meters gained and eight score involvements, all while only spending 71% of his time on-ground.  

Steven May and Max Gawn captivated the coaches, both scoring seven votes apiece. May showcased an impressive game with 25 disposals, 13 marks and 607 meters gained, while Gawn had 26 disposals, 16 kicks, and 35 hit-outs.  

Petracca was also rewarded for his 29-disposal game, with five votes, and Billings received one vote in his first game as a Demon, with 23 disposals and 15 marks.   

Check out the full list of votes and the current leaderboard below.   

MELBOURNE vs WESTERN BULLDOGS 
9 - Clayton Oliver (Melbourne) 
7 – Steven May (Melbourne) 
7 – Max Gawn (Melbourne) 
5 – Christian Petracca (Melbourne) 
1 – Lachie Bramble (Western Bulldogs) 
1 – Jack Billings (Melbourne)  

LEADERBOARD 
19 – Isaac Heeney (Sydney) 
18 – Matt Rowell (Gold Coast) 
15 – Tom Green (Greater Western Sydney) 
15 – Jesse Hogan (Greater Western Sydney) 
13 – Harry McKay (Carlton)