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North Adelaide’s Anne Hatchard could be robbed of equally winning SANFLW best and fairest

The SANFL is investigating a possible mistake with its best and fairest count after a North Adelaide star was not awarded maximum votes during a game where she finished with a record breaking 42 touches.

Highlights from the 2020 SANFLW grand final - North Adelaide v South Adelaide

North Adelaide SANFLW star and Crows AFLW-listed midfielder Anne Hatchard may have been robbed of a league best and fairest award — or at least becoming the equal winner.

It was revealed on Monday night the SANFL was investigating a possible mistake in voting which led to Hatchard missing out on receiving a maximum three votes in round five after racking up a record 42 disposals.

Three votes in North’s victory over Sturt went to Hatchard’s teammate Alex Fitridge who was also wearing long sleeves but only recorded three possessions.

North Adelaide SANFLW star Anna Hatchard after winning the 2020 grand final and best on ground medal. Picture: Deb Curtis
North Adelaide SANFLW star Anna Hatchard after winning the 2020 grand final and best on ground medal. Picture: Deb Curtis

The Roosters’ 77-point victory over the Double Blues at Peter Motley Oval on June 27 was also Hatchard’s debut in the SANFLW with North.

Hatchard, who led the Roosters to their inaugural SANFLW grand final win on Sunday, finished runner up in the SANFLW best and fairest with 12 votes — three behind winner West Adelaide midfielder Rachelle Martin.

A SANFL spokeswoman said the issue was under a process of review and the league could not make any further comment at this time.

Hatchard, a 22-year-old prolific ball-winner, claimed the best-on-ground medal after North’s seven-point grand final win against South Adelaide on Sunday.

She was also crowned the Crows’ AFLW club champion in June — a well deserved award win after she broke the AFLW record for most disposals when she had 35 touches against Brisbane in round one this season.

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Original URL: https://www.adelaidenow.com.au/messenger/north-northeast/sport/north-adelaides-anne-hatchard-could-be-robbed-of-equally-winning-sanflw-best-and-fairest/news-story/65486dbfa061fcf60ae30d9f68b68f1d