GVL Data | Winners at the coal-face dominate round 12 rankings

By Josh Huntly

Jul 10, 2023

Winding up: Echuca co-coach Sam Reid unleashes. Photo: Aydin Payne

Winding up: Echuca co-coach Sam Reid unleashes. Photo: Aydin Payne Photo by Aydin Payne

Round 12 of the Goulburn Valley League belonged to the contested footy winners, as several Morrison Medal contenders made their mark in challenging wet and wild conditions.

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Sam Reid led the way in GVL Data ranking points, accumulating 184 points after his 35-disposal, three-goal performance in Echuca's commanding 73-point victory over Tatura.

This marks the third time this season that Reid has topped the ranking points, the only player to achieve the feat this season.

Reid's performance is likely to earn him the maximum three votes, further solidifying his position as a frontrunner for the Morrison Medal.

But over in the High Country, Euroa’s Will Hayes reinforced his status as the league favourite with a superb display in challenging conditions against Benalla.

Despite the weather, Hayes shone with 41 disposals, including 18 contested possessions, 10 inside-50s, nine tackles, and eight clearances.

Remarkably, his outstanding performance went unnoticed in Euroa's best players on PlayHQ, marking the first time this season that the former Carlton player has been omitted from the list.

At Kyabram, ruckman Zac Norris fired a warning shot ahead of this week’s top-of-the-table clash against Echuca, demonstrating his prowess around the ground against Rochester.

Norris played a pivotal role in Kyabram's 43-point win over the Tigers, recording 40 hitouts, 18 disposals, and 10 clearances.

His consistent performances throughout the season have established him as a key player for the Bombers as they aim to unseat the Murray Bombers, a team they haven't beaten since the 2019 grand final.

Meanwhile, Dylan Gordon showcased his skills in his second game for Rochester since crossing from Heathcote League club Elmore.

Gordon made significant contributions with 21 disposals, nine contested possessions, and six tackles, following an impressive debut in the round 11 win over Shepparton Swans.

At Riordan Oval, ex-AFL Bulldog Nathan Hrovat put on a scintillating performance, accumulating a season-high 45 disposals in a commanding win against Shepparton United.