STRENGTH to strength for the 2019 NAB AFL Rising Star.
Second-year Blue Sam Walsh silenced whatever critics there were on Sunday, demonstrating his big-game credentials against ladder leaders Port Adelaide.
On the back of a strong showing against the Western Bulldogs, Walsh has continued to wow supporters after a record-breaking first season.
Senior Coach David Teague was quick to praise the young star for his efforts against the top-of-the-table Port, who finished with 16 disposals (seven contested), six marks and two goals.
“Early signs, I thought he was our best player,” Teague said.
“I haven’t watched the game back closely, but I thought he played the way we wanted to play.
“This season is really building nicely for him.”
Walsh’s performance against the Power was exemplified with a heroic third quarter mark: one which would have made his childhood hero Jonathon Brown proud.
This has to be a contender for mark of the year and before any keyboard champs argue .. ask yourself would you do that knowing a big angry Charlie Dixon is coming the other way ?? Courage personified ! https://t.co/27FL9s1KUb
— Dale Thomas (@DThomas_39) July 20, 2020
Playing on the wing in recent weeks, Teague said Walsh’s mark typified his commitment to the team.
“He’s really building his role: he’s playing a bit more on the wing than in the midfield,” he said.
“That can be a tough position to play and I think he’s adjusting. What I love is that his teammates are really understanding the importance of the role he’s playing for the side.
“He’s not measuring games by possessions; he’s measuring games by getting his job done. Today he was one of our better players.”
