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Patton Earns Giants’ 13th Rising Star Nomination

Greater Western Sydney has recorded another Rising Star nomination with hulking forward Jonathon Patton receiving the nod for Round 18.

The former number one draft pick was rewarded for his 15 disposals, two goals, and career-best nine marks against Geelong two weeks ago as part of the split round.

Patton has been a consistent performer for the Giants in 2014, registering 21 goals and averaging 11 disposals and five marks across his 16 matches this season.

After knee injuries ruined his first two years at AFL level, the Eastern Ranges product has taken the second most marks and is behind only Jeremy Cameron for goals at the club in 2014 with three-goal highlights coming in Rounds 1 and 13.

“I’m just trying to get some games under my belt to be honest and build my confidence” – Jon Patton

While some have questioned how GWS will fit Patton, Cameron and recent number-one pick Tom Boyd in the same forward-line, Patton has told afl.com.au he has no plans of returning home to Victoria.

“I haven’t really thought about coming home. I’m still contracted for next year anyway,” he said.

“I love Sydney. It’s a great place to live and I really enjoy being at the club.

“I don’t think anyone wants to leave but of course there’s going to be a few that have to go… a lot of the boys understand where we’re at.”

Patton has been compared to big-bodied forwards Jonathan Brown and Tom Hawkins throughout his 26-game career and while Brown boasted two premierships and 57 games at the same age, Patton said in November last year he’s just happy to be playing and improving.

“I would have loved to have played 40 games by now but I can’t think about that – it’s all in the past.

“I’m just trying to get some games under my belt, to be honest, and build my confidence.”

Patton becomes the second Giant to earn a Rising Star nomination this season and is the 13th nominated player in the club’s three-year history.

Patton is eligible for this year’s #22Under22 side. Will he make the final team? Let us know in the comment box below.