THE DEMONS’ big win over St Kilda in Round 6 has seen six players poll in the AFLCA AFLW Champion Player of the Year Award.
Lauren Pearce and Eden Zanker, who teamed up in the midfield on Saturday night, were deemed equal-best by the coaches, both receiving nine votes.
Pearce put on a dominant display in the ruck at Casey Fields, racking up 22 disposals, 21 hit-outs, four marks and four tackles in the 44-point win.
She proved influential across the ground – as did Zanker.
Playing on-ball against the Saints, 21-year-old Zanker finished with 23 touches, including 13 kicks, and took eight marks. Her efforts also earned her a Hertz Fans’ Pick of the week from the Demon faithful.
Tyla Hanks caused just as much havoc in the middle, and was rewarded with votes for a sixth consecutive week.
Her 22-disposal game added another six votes to her tally, which now stands at 34 votes for the season – she sits seventh on the overall leaderboard.
Captain Daisy Pearce (13 disposals and two goals), vice-captain Karen Paxman (24 disposals) and forward Kate Hore (20 disposals and one goal) were also recognised, each earning two votes.
Round 6 Votes: Melbourne v St Kilda
9 – Lauren Pearce (MELB)
9 – Eden Zanker (MELB)
6 – Tyla Hanks (MELB)
2 – Daisy Pearce (MELB)
2 – Kate Hore (MELB)
2 – Karen Paxman (MELB)
