A strong topic of conversation in the media box late in Gold Coast’s 40-point win over St Kilda on Saturday was how to split the votes.

The SUNS had contributors right across the ground and narrowing it down to just three players was a near impossible task for many of the journalists in the room.

Nick Malceski played his best game in SUNS colours, collecting 30 disposals for the firs time in the red and gold. More impressive was his 83% disposal efficiency to go with 10 marks, nine rebound 50s and a goal.

The former All Australian also gained 728 metres for his team, the most of any player in the competition for round 15.

Jarrod Harbrow was also supreme in defence with 21 disposals, rarely beaten in the contest while Jack Martin was just as influential, providing rebound and composure from the back half.

Meanwhile, key posts Steven May (23 disposals, 11 marks) and Rory Thompson (16 disposals, 11 marks) performed their roles with aplomb, thwarting the majority of Saints forward entries.

In the engine room, Michael Rischitelli had a game-high 33 disposals, eight marks, six rebound 50s and six tackles. Aaron Hall continued his return to form with 27 touches, seven inside 50s and two goals while Dion Prestia (26 disposals, two goals) and Gary Ablett (25 disposals) were also significant.

Then there’s the forward line. Tom Lynch was dominant, despite being doubled team on a regular basis. The SUNS spearhead set a new club record with 14 marks (seven inside 50) but inaccurate kicking cost the Victorian a big bag with Lynch finishing with 1.4 to his name.

Alongside him, Peter Wright should have earned himself an AFL rising star nomination with 10 marks and three goals. The 19-year-old also contributed three goal assists and looks to be a future star of the game.

So now it’s over to you – who gets your votes in round 15?


Skipper Gary Ablett earned maximum votes in round 14, collecting 48 of a possible 50 for his 40-possession game against Hawthorn.

Ablett is now a clear second in the 2016 Fans Player of the Year count on 201 votes, trailing Tom Lynch on 252.

Round 14 v Hawthorn
Gary Ablett – 48 votes
Tom Lynch – 29 votes
Jarrod Harbrow – 6 votes

Season Leaderboard

Tom Lynch – 252 votes
Gary Ablett – 201 votes
Aaron Hall – 156 votes

Vote now in the 2016 Fans Player of the Year