Werribee pair Nash King and Eli Pearce have been selected in the VFL Young Guns side for Saturday’s clash against the Talent League Young Guns.

The match will take place at DSV Stadium at 2:00pm, acting as the curtain raiser to Werribee’s ANZAC Day clash with Williamstown later that night.

The VFL Young Guns is a new concept introduced for the 2026 season, featuring VFL-listed players aged 22 and under who have been identified by their clubs and AFL recruiters as exciting emerging talent.

Both players were signed to Werribee ahead of the 2026 season and are still awaiting their first opportunity in the black and gold.

For King, the selection comes off the back of a strong return to action at local level. In his first game of 2026 with Wallan, the 20-year-old midfielder made an immediate impact, collecting 31 disposals, 10 clearances and seven tackles, while also hitting the scoreboard with three goals in a standout all-round performance.

King arrived at Werribee with previous VFL experience after featuring three times for Carlton in 2025, following an impressive junior career with the Calder Cannons and Vic Metro at under-18 level.

Pearce has also earned his opportunity following a consistent run of form, including a solid season opener with Bell Park. The 194cm midfielder showcased his versatility in the win over South Barwon, rotating between midfield, key forward and the ruck to finish with 17 disposals and 11 contested possessions.

A former Bendigo Pioneers product, Pearce enjoyed a breakout 2025 season at Bell Park, finishing fifth in the GFNL Best and Fairest while also gaining exposure at VFL level with Carlton.

Saturday’s clash provides both players with the chance to test themselves against some of the best emerging talent in the state, while also putting their names in front of AFL recruiters ahead of the Mid-Season Rookie Draft.

Werribee fans are encouraged to get down early to support King and Pearce before the main game, with free entry to the Young Guns fixture ahead of the ANZAC Day blockbuster.