The superstar recruits of the 2025 season all produced performances to remember in Round 8, with three midfielders proving to be difference makers for their new clubs.
A Saints midfielder has climbed the Power Rankings after a career night, while the top two have cemented themselves in place for the time being after two high-impact matches that led their teams to victory.
Who's making the most impact in their new colours? Welcome to the weekly ranking of the Recruit of the Year contenders for 2025, with Round 8 giving us plenty to consider.
4. John Noble (-)
Noble's elite performance in the 28th Q-Clash will probably go unnoticed due to the Suns poor effort on the scoreboard, just 14 scoring shots for a final score of 49. But Noble's ball-winning ability and composure in the backline should be recognised as this game could have turned into a significantly worse loss for the Suns.
Defensively, Noble recorded three spoils and won both of his contested defensive one-on-ones. He stood out in a tight first half, where the Lions struggled to create high-danger goal-scoring opportunities.
Noble's respect should come from his attempts to get the Suns' attack firing, however, with 22 of his 26 disposals being effective as he generated a team-high six rebound 50s. Considering the conditions, this was an unreal performance from Noble, and it's the kind of pedigree Hardwick demands from his group as they search for the club's first ever Finals berth.
