With only four rounds to go until finals, AFLPlayers.com.au highlights the players who played an understated role in their side’s Round 19 victory, whether it be a pivotal moment or a four-quarter performance.
Richmond: Bachar Houli
In a dominant team display against a depleted Collingwood, milestone man Bachar Houli flew under the radar. In his 200th game, the veteran defender collected 31 disposals and eight intercept possessions but it was his ability to take 10 uncontested marks that summed up his night and Richmond’s.
Brisbane: Mitch Robinson
Mitch Robinson continued his stunning form revival on the weekend against the Hawks, amassing 29 possessions and seven involvements. But, it was a moment in the dying seconds of the game and with the Lions up by 27-points that typified Brisbane’s determination. With Hawthorn quickly moving the ball forward, Robinson’s gut-running saved what would have been a certain goal, tackling Ollie Hanrahan and earning a free kick. It was a passage of play that reflected Brisbane’s rapid improvement this season and why they’re becoming so hard to play against.
Carlton: Will Setterfield
Carlton look like a team revived under interim coach David Teague and Will Setterfield is one of the players reaping the rewards. After playing two games in his debut season with the Giants and missing 2018 through injury, Setterfield has found form since crossing to the Blues last year, playing 14 of a possible 19 games in 2019. Against Adelaide, Setterfield had 24 touches and seven inside-50s as Carlton won three games in a row for the first time since 2016.
West Coast: Jake Waterman
While Josh Kennedy was rightly receiving all the accolades for his seven-goal haul against North Melbourne, forward Jake Waterman was quietly going about his business in the forward-line. Waterman collected nine disposals and kicked two goals as the Eagles moved to second spot on the ladder with four rounds remaining.
St Kilda: Tim Membrey
Josh Bruce nailed four goals and was dangerous all night, combining with Tim Membrey – who bagged three of his own – as St Kilda’s tall forwards acted as the difference between the two teams on Saturday night. Membrey’s three goals all came in the third term as the Saints’ forward line got well on top of their Demons’ opponents.
GWS Giants: Nick Haynes
As he has done all season, Nick Haynes was a pillar in defence on Saturday night for the Giants. In a close game, Haynes collected 26 disposals across half-back, 10 marks and six intercept possessions.
Western Bulldogs: Bailey Dale
Since returning to the senior side in Round 18, Bailey Dale has kicked nine goals. The 23-year-old kicked four against the Dockers, helping to set up their 47-point victory. He could have finished the day with six majors but a return of four goals from 13 disposals will please his coaches.
Geelong: Scott Selwood
Playing his first game for the season after an injury-interrupted start to the year, Selwood joined Geelong’s midfield rotation and performed solidly. The younger Selwood gathered 23 touches, won three clearances and kicked a goal in an important Geelong win in Tom Hawkins’ 250th game against Sydney at the SCG.
Essendon: Jake Stringer
As Essendon edge closer to a finals berth, Jake Stringer is starting to recapture the form that made him a fan-favourite. Overcoming illness, Stringer kicked four goals and collected 19 disposals spending time in both Essendon’s midfield and forward line.