FOLLOWING Casey’s Round 5 clash, VFL coach Rhett McLennan provided his reflections on the contributions of AFL-listed players after the Demons’ 27-point win over Richmond at Casey Fields.
Andy Moniz-Wakefield
(31 disposals, 6 tackles)
“Andy played a really strong game, finishing with 31 disposals.
“Our focus with him has been his defensive pressure, and there’s been clear improvement in that area, bringing his strength and physicality to the contest.”
Patrick Cross
(22 disposals, 9 marks)
“It was great to see him get through his first full game after his thumb injury.
“He spent time forward and on the wing, collected 22 disposals, showed high running speeds and had four shots on goal, a fantastic performance.
“He’s ready to get back in there if he gets the chance.”
Jack Henderson
(19 disposals, 7 marks, 6 tackles)
“Jack was solid once again, continuing his consistency as an inside player who can push forward.
“His contest work and defensive pressure were excellent, contributing strongly to the win.”
Tom McDonald
(22 disposals, 10 marks)
“Tom was fantastic. He has been a pillar down back over the past two weeks.
“He’s spoiling, intercept marking the ball confidently and using it well, providing real stability in defence.”
Kalani White
(12 disposals, 13 hitouts, 3 clearances)
“Kalani has been really good, stepping into the main ruck role over the past few weeks.
“It’s still a work in progress given his size and age, but he’s competing strongly and even produced a highlight mark in the third quarter.”
Luker Kentfield
(2 goals, 13 disposals, 6 marks)
“Luker was solid, spending more time as a second ruck this week.
“He finished with two goals, competed well and showed strong intensity around the contest.
“He’s shaping into someone who can be up in the frame for senior selection if he gets given the chance.”
Jake Bowey
(15 disposals, 3 tackles, 3 marks) - 50% TOG
“Bowza was excellent, using his experience and footy IQ to good effect in the 50 per cent game time he was out there.
“He finished with 15 disposals and used the ball efficiently.”
Ricky Mentha Jnr
(16 disposals, 2 tackles)
“Ricky has put together two excellent weeks in defence.
“He reads the game well, uses the ball cleanly and has been a key part of a backline that’s been one of the team’s strongest areas.”
Jed Adams
(12 disposals, 1 tackle)
“We thought Jed was our best player on the weekend, intercept marking strongly and showing real desperation to defend and deny easy opportunities.”
Riley Onley
(14 disposals, 5 marks)
“That was easily Riley’s best game in an unfamiliar defensive role playing on a third tall.
“He did a fantastic job on a dangerous opponent while maintaining excellent defensive intent.”
Thomas Matthews
(2 goals, 9 disposals, 2 tackles)
“Tommy kicked two goals and continued to apply strong defensive pressure, even rotating through the midfield.
“He’s moving better week by week.”
Oscar Berry
(8 disposals, 3 marks)
“Oscar had some really good moments, particularly late in the game.
“He continues to improve his defensive positioning and ability to limit his opponent.”
