There's further movement among the top six of our 2023 AFL Rookie Rankings, with the podium seeing a shift as a young Eagle continues to impress in the blue and gold.
North Melbourne's young star continues to hold top spot, while Hawthorn's fledgling midfielder enjoyed a strong Round 3 outing against his old Sandringham teammate.
A pair of Dees and a young Crow are beginning to strengthen their cases for a spot in the top six, with a Saints livewire falling back to the last spot in our rankings.
Criteria: For our Rookie Rankings, we are selecting players who have made their debut this season. Other players who may still be eligible for a Rising Star nomination but have already made their debut prior to the 2023 season will not be considered.
I.e. Rising Star eligible players such as Sam Darcy, Finn Callaghan and Jye Amiss are ineligible, having already played an AFL match prior to Round 1, 2023.
Honourable Mentions:
Max Michalanney (Adelaide)
Jacob van Rooyen (Melbourne)
Judd McVee (Melbourne)
Noah Long (West Coast)
SEE: Rookie Rankings after Round 2
6. Mattaes Phillipou (-1)
While not having the same scoreboard impact we've seen from the South Australian in recent weeks, Phillipou was an astute conduit in linking Ross Lyon's midfield and forward thirds.
The teenager was impressive in the air and at ground level to help set up his teammates charging towards goal, recording six score involvements for the night.
Phillipou will be hoping for a lift in Round 4 off the back of some impressive performances from those sitting just outside our rankings, with young Demons pair Jacob van Rooyen and Judd McVee, along with Crows defender Max Michalanney, all narrowly sitting outside sixth spot.
Forward
Marks
Tackles
Disposals
The Saints and Phillipou will have a chance to continue their winnings ways when they host the Suns at Marvel Stadium on Saturday night.
