Even his teammates are in awe of Port Adelaide’s ice-cool teen sensation Chad Wingard.
The 19-year-old was a five-goal hero in Port’s heart-stopping comeback AFL Showdown victory against Adelaide on Sunday.
Wingard nervelessly slotted a 35-metre set shot with 30 seconds remaining to win the match.
His teammate Hamish Hartlett says despite being in just his second season, Wingard is perfect for such a crisis.
“You probably wouldn’t want anyone else in that situation that he was faced with, he’s just super cool under pressure,” Hartlett told reporters on Monday.
“He has got every attribute that can turn him into a great player.
“He has got great skill, he’s incredibly quick along the ground and very agile, and surprisingly strong for how young and how small he looks physically.
“He is going to be a great player – obviously he’s making an impact already. There is no limit to how good he can be.”
Wingard’s goal capped a comeback which shocked even Port, who trailed fierce rivals Adelaide by 20 points with five minutes remaining.
“We were probably just as surprised as anyone else watching the game,” Hartlett said.
“When you need to kick four goals with not much time on the clock … it comes down to a bit of hope.”
The triumph was Port’s fifth win by nine or less points this season and put them two wins clear of ninth-placed Carlton.
“We haven’t been in this position for the last few years so obviously it (finals) is in the back of the mind,” Hartlett said.
“But we’re not going to get there unless we get another couple of wins in the next few weeks.
“It’s pretty simple for us. We know that if we do the right things heading into each game, and if we can execute on game day, then we will be okay. But you can’t think too far ahead.”