DEFENDERS
James Sicily (Hawthorn)
Sicily continued his stellar 2019 with another impressive performance down back against the Eagles on Saturday night. The Hawk gained 505 metres from his 18 touches, took eight marks, had eight spoils, five defensive 50 rebounds, three tackles, and kicked a goal in Hawthorn’s upset win.
Tom Stewart (Geelong)
One of the league’s most dominant defenders, Stewart once again stood out for the Cats in their comfortable home victory against Carlton. Stewart had 27 possessions at 85 per cent efficiency, nine defensive 50 rebounds, seven marks and three tackles in a well-rounded performance.
Nick Vlastuin (Richmond)
Vlastuin has been magnificent for the Tigers all year and his performance on Sunday against the Lions showed why he is regarded as one of the league’s most improved players. The Tiger nullified Brisbane’s livewire forward Lincoln McCarthy, while also taking nine marks and collecting 19 touches at 84 per cent efficiency.
Matthew Suckling (Western Bulldogs)
Suckling was huge for the Dogs as they confirmed their spot in the finals with a comprehensive win over a Crows side that will be subject to huge changes over the off-season. The former Hawk had 29 touches at 93 per cent efficiency, nine marks and seven rebound 50s in a dominant effort down back.
Jacob Weitering (Carlton)
Having struggled to find his feet at AFL level since debuting in 2016, the former number one pick has been a standout for the Blues since the appointment of coach, David Teague. While the Blues did not have their best of nights against the Cats on Saturday, Weitering held Tom Hawkins goalless in an incredibly mature performance. Expect big things in 2020 from the young Blue.
Connor McKenna (Essendon)
The Irishman impressed under the Friday night lights, gaining a huge 711 metres from his career-high 25 disposals. McKenna also took five marks and collected eight rebounds 50s off the half-back flank.
