Diehard AFL fans will never let one of their own go unrecognised, even if external praise eludes them.
Players like Josh Battle, Matt Cottrell, Tom Sparrow and Brent Daniels have played a crucial role at their respective club for years, but never seem to reach the limelight of external discussion or award recognition. Some of that has changed, but a plethora of players need some more love.
This year, several players have stood up in a pivotal spot or in a new role and thrived. Others have toiled away at their job without public acknowledgement of the year they're having.
This piece aims to congratulate those who haven't received the widespread appreciation they deserve, offering a brief moment of stardom before they likely escape discussion once again this weekend...
Melbourne
A season of turmoil at the Demons has called on some veterans to stand up and lead through adversity and with notable absentees.
Having lost James Harmes and James Jordon over the off-season, and now dealing with Clayton Oliver's dramatic form slump and Christian Petracca's traumatic season-ending injury, Neal-Bullen has stepped into the midfield and played whatever role is required of him to full effect.
He is having his career-best season in disposals, contested possessions, tackles, clearances and groundball gets, but has also become Simon Goodwin's designated run-with player after a masterful job done on Nick Daicos at the Kings Birthday clash.
His performance in a Round 3 win over the Power was a clinic in the high half-forward role, where he finished with 24 disposals and two goals and a profound impact in a seven-point victory.
