1. BACKLINE
Shannon Hurn
Playing without usual partner Jeremy McGovern, Hurn more than made up for it being the general down back for the Eagles.
Keeping Carlton forwards at bay, Hurn not only managed nine intercepts but showed class turning offence into defence with six score involvements. He also had 27 touches, nine marks and led all Eagles with 554 metres gained.
Defender
Marks
Disposals
Rebound50s
Dylan Grimes
While his stats aren't always the most impressive, Grimes is the glue and cool head in the Tigers defence. Whether it is a timely mark, spoil or preventing an otherwise certain goal, Grimes has become one of the premier key defenders.
He finished with nine marks (three contested), 14 touches, eight spoils and nine intercepts.
Jake Lloyd
The reliable Jake Lloyd was dominant again for the Swans in their victory over the Saints. His efficiency with the ball out of defence was elite, finishing with 96.3%.
Defender
Marks
Disposals
Rebound50s
He led all swans for disposals (27), metres gained (500) and score involvements (eight).
Jack Crisp
Jack Crisp was a defensive wall for the Magpies, helping his team sneak across the line against the Crows.
While not only stopping the Crows from scoring, Crisp was instrumental in controlling and rebounding from the defensive 50. He finished the night with 31 disposals, nine marks, seven intercepts and 412 metres gained.
Luke Ryan
With the Dogs lethal midfield, they managed 52 inside 50s. Ryan held up strong, preventing the Dogs from scoring more effectively on their entries. He withstood the attack and helped the Dockers rebound in the other direction.
Defender
Marks
Disposals
Rebound50s
Ryan led all Dockers with 669 metres gained, 10 marks, and seven intercepts. He also collected 25 touches while disposing of the ball with 84% efficiency.
Rory Laird
Laird was instrumental in the Crows performance, helping them nearly complete the comeback against the Magpies.
He finished with 40 disposals, 9 score involvements, seven inside 50s, seven clearances (five centre) and five tackles. In this complete game, he not only defended when required but was instrumental in providing first use and spread to his teammates.
