Calder Cannons finding form as young stars ramp up for Under-18 National Championships selection

Daniel Mott and Brodie Newman continue their fine form as Calder Cannons claim a second straight NAB League win, while Jacob Martin bounces back after being dropped.

Mason Fletcher juggles a mark against Geelong Falcons.

Calder Cannons claimed a second straight NAB League win on Saturday as this year’s crop of draft hopefuls ramp up for the national championships.

The Cannons were too good for Bendigo Pioneers, recording a 16-point triumph at Highgate Reserve, the club’s third victory in four games.

With the AFL Under-18 National Championships on the horizon, Vic Metro is finalising its squad and several Cannons are expected to gain selection.

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Daniel Mott was dominant in the win over the Pioneers, gathering 36 disposals, six marks, three tackles and a goal through midfield and off half-back.

Captain Brodie Newman backed up his 34-disposal, 16-mark performance the previous week with another 21 disposals and 12 marks, splitting time between attack and defence.

Sam Ramsay has been added to Metro’s extended squad after a rich vein of form while 200cm ruckman Josh Hotchkin has impressed after making his debut in the win over Geelong Falcons last week.

Sam Ramsay lays a tackle against Geelong Falcons.

Back to back @CalderCannonsFC. 🔶🔷 #AlwaysACannon pic.twitter.com/XdbNc785LS

— Sean Potter (@CoachSeanPotter) May 4, 2019

“We’ve found some good form, which is nice. We changed a few things in the way we move the ball and that’s paid dividends,” Cannons coach Ross Smith said.

“We’re trying to get some versatility into our side and show recruiters our players can play in a number of positions.”

Father-son hopeful Mason Fletcher has shifted forward in recent weeks and rewarded Calder with two goals in the 7.10 (52) to 5.6 (36) win.

Smith was also impressed with the return of Jacob Martin after the young midfielder was sent back to junior club Aberfeldie and responded with 36 disposals, six marks and five tackles.

“It was the best game of the year from Jacob Martin,” he said.

Jack Keeping celebrates a goal with Jacob Martin.

“We’ve been waiting for Jacob to give us a little bit, we sat him out for a couple of weeks because his form didn’t warrant selection.

“He’s gone back and worked on a few things and he was our best player on the day, which was really pleasing.”

The Cannons are on the road for the next fortnight with a trip to Morwell this Saturday for a clash with Gippsland Power before facing Murray Bushrangers in Wangaratta.

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