Essendon’s Zach Merrett has been nominated for the AFL’s Rising Star award after playing a leading role in his side’s 50-point win over Richmond.
Merrett had 22 disposals and kicked two goals in the Dreamtime at the `G match on Saturday night.
“We took a gamble and played him in round one and we’ve been really impressed with the way he attacks the football and takes the game on,” Bombers coach Mark Thompson said.
“His brother Jackson is also at the club and they are two very competitive individuals.”