Father-son selection Mitch Wallis’s key role in the Western Bulldogs’ first win of the AFL season has been recognised with the round-four nomination for the Rising Star award.

Wallis, 19, racked up 22 possessions and seven tackles in the 21-point win over fellow battlers Melbourne at the MCG on Sunday.

He also kicked his first goal in his eighth senior match.

Wallis is the son of former Bulldogs captain Steve Wallis.

Coach Brendan McCartney said Wallis made an important contribution to the Dogs’ first win of 2012.

“Mitch is showing the benefits of working at his all-round game and his performance against Melbourne was an example of that,” said McCartney.

“He understands he still has a lot to learn but he’s a good person and works very hard at his game.

“We’re confident he is building towards a good career at our club.”