Fifteen Werribee players took to the field in local competitions this past weekend with several players returning from injury and a number of others producing notable performances.

GEELONG FOOTBALL LEAGUE

Sam Witherden – North Shore
Played a big part in North Shore’s second win of the season, a 16-point triumph over St Albans in very windy conditions. Moved into the midfield after quarter time and was influential with some strong stoppage work and good run and carry. Had 25 disposals with five inside 50s and five tackles.

Connor Thar – Lara
Made his Lara debut his first match since suffering an ankle injury against Footscray in Round 8. In an encouraging return against reigning premiers St Mary’s, played with confidence and good energy, gathering 15 disposals (12 kicks) while adding a goal in just a half of footy.

Emmanuel Ajang – Geelong West
Was the most prominent Giant in a 31-point loss to third placed Colac. Totalled 38 disposals (8 inside 50s, 5 clearances) and nine tackles to receive best afield honours.

Noah Gribble – Geelong West
Taking to the field in his first game in almost a month it wasn’t the return anyone would have hoped for with shoulder and foot issues bringing his day to a premature end. Played predominately as a forward.

Charlie Byrne – Newtown & Chilwell
One of the best for the Eagles as they overcame Grovdeale by 50 points for their in their 11th win of the season. Collected 29 disposals off halfback and kicked two nice goals. Also had 11 marks and three tackles.

Flynn Young – Newtown & Chilwell
Had an impact in attack but some inaccurate goal kicking (three behinds) was the difference in not having a greater influence on the game. His one major was an impressive one amongst 14 disposals and two tackles in the win over the Tigers. 

Mitch Burgess – Leopold
Enjoyed a solid return to footy and played his part in helping the Lions seperate themselves from South Barwon thanks to a 36-point victory over the Swans. Showed good acceleration when in possession.

WESTERN REGION FOOTBALL LEAGUE

Akol Deng - Yarraville Seddon
Was the top performer for the Eagles in a 46-point victory over Spotswood with his best game in several weeks. Dominated in the ruck with 57 hit-outs and was good around the ground collecting 24 disposals (13 contested, 8 clearances). Showed plenty of physicality across the day.

Michael Selsby – Yarraville Seddon
Also amongst the better players against the Woodsmen with 30 disposals, eight clearances and goal. Set the tone early and won a good amount of the ball both inside and on the outside.

Aidan Johnson – Yarraville Seddon
Spent the majority of the day in defence where he played an important role in the Eagles’ fourth win. Was strong in the contest and used the ball well, tallying 17 disposals along with nine one-percenters.

Sam Clifford – Hoppers Crossing
Played well to be named in the best for the Warriors in a 23-point loss to Point Cook Centrals. Provided some good rebound and didn’t waste many of his 15 disposals.

ESSENDON DISTRICT FOOTBALL LEAGUE

Cam McLeod – Avondale Heights
One of the best for Heights in a 58-point defeat away to Greenvale. Used mainly in defence, but also swung forward in the third term to try and provide an avenue to goal. Had 16 disposals and three contested marks. 

Lachlan Smart – Deer Park
Was a strong performer in a narrow five-point loss to West Coburg. Finished with 23 disposals, nine tackles and two goals in the second matchup this year between the Lions and Burgers to be decided by less than a goal.


BENDIGO FOOTBALL LEAGUE

Bailey Henderson – Castlemaine (Local Player of the Week)
Was comfortably Castlemaine’s best player in their loss to Gisborne accumulating 45 disposals (5 clearances, 6 inside 50s, 9 rebound 50s) and 11 tackles. Showed great leadership also, offering encouragement and direction for his teammates.

OVENS & MURRAY FOOTBAL LEAGUE

Sam Azzi – North Albury
Suffered a hamstring injury early in the game, in the Hoppers’ Round 12 contest against Albury.