Zero Hanger Rookie of the Year votes: Round 6

STAFF WRITER | May 1, 2019 - 5:38pm

5 Votes: Xavier Duursma

Earning the Rising Star nomination for Round 6, it was only appropriate that the up-and-coming Xavier Duursma would top the votes for this week's Rookie of the Year.

Showing promising signs all season thus far, Duursma's efforts culminated in a strong showing against North Melbourne last Friday night.

The 18-year-old recorded 24 disposals (12 of those contested) and was a constant livewire for the Power, with himself and the array of Port youngsters being integral to Port Adelaide's strong early season form.

Bonus points for the goal celebration, too.

4 Votes: Jack Ross

It's hard to believe that Jack Ross couldn't get a game for Vic Metro last year, but rest assured the Tigers youngster has had no issues settling into Richmond midfield and showing why he is AFL quality.

Averaging over 23 touches in his first three games at AFL level, Ross has more than imposed himself into the Richmond line up - answering their call when he was needed most.

The 18-year-old didn't disappoint last week, either, recording a solid 28 possessions which included eight score involvements and three tackles.

Ross won't be resting on his laurels this weekend, with the Tigers hoping to notch up their fourth consecutive win against the Bulldogs.

3 Votes: Gryan Miers

Geelong has had a knack of drafting some great talent over the years, and judging by his first handful of games, young Cat Gryan Miers seems to be no exception.

Miers was as lively as ever against the Eagles at GMHBA Stadium on Sunday, picking up 20 disposals and kicking two goals to go with his polished performance in the Geelong forward line.

The 20-year-old isn't lacking role models down at Kardinia Park, and has been looking to learn from Gary Ablett in particular.

“He is a magician, he is unbelievable with what he does,” Miers told foxfooty.com.au.

“I’m just going to copy whatever he does."

It's been a pretty good strategy for Miers so far, with the Geelong local averaging 15.3 disposals and kicking eight goals so far this season.

2 Votes: Bailey Smith

Bulldogs fans haven't had a lot to smile about in recent weeks, but Bailey Smith has given the Footscray faithful reason to be optimistic.

The 18-year-old produced a solid display at Optus Stadium last Saturday night, collecting 23 possessions and recording five inside 50's against the Dockers.

The seventh pick in last year's National Draft has impressed in his first six matches for the Dogs, never failing to get his hands on the footy and make the most of his opportunities in a young Bulldog outfit.

1 Vote: Matthew Parker

Although the Saints weren't able to prevail against the Crows on Saturday evening, Parker continued to justify to St Kilda fans why the future is bright.

Parker was at his scintillating best against Adelaide, producing a couple of high-flying marks and showing off his impressive nous within the forward line.

The 23-year-old continues to wow the crowds and it certainly isn't the last time the young forward will find himself amongst the votes.

Season Leaderboard:

18 – Sam Walsh (CARL)

10 – Charlie Constable (GEEL)

9 – Connor Rozee (PORT)

8 – Jack Ross (RICH)

6 – Gryan Miers (GEEL)

5 – Michael Gibbons (CARL)

5 - Xavier Duursma (PORT)

5 – Sydney Stack (RICH)

4 – Bailey Scott (NM)

4 – Zak Butters (PORT)