Keilor’s Keighton Matofai-Forbes stuns on debut

Keilor has unearthed another teenage star after a 16-year-old lit up Good Friday footy in his first game for the club after a rollercoaster start to his season.

You probably won’t be surprised to know Keilor has another special talent on its hands.

On Good Friday, the Blues unveiled 16-year-old key forward Keighton Matofai-Forbes for the first time.

And he delivered a debut to remember with four goals to guide his side to a 16.16 (118) to 6.9 (45) win over reigning Essendon District league premier Strathmore.

It was the first time Keilor supporters had seen Matofai-Forbes at any level after he joined the club from Hillside, where he came through the Sharks’ junior system, in the off-season.

Keilor coach Mick McGuane said Kane Barbuto’s late withdrawal gave the teenager his opportunity.

Keighton Matofai-Forbes in action for the Western Jets. Photo: Morgan Hancock/AFL Photos via Getty Images.

“We thought we needed another aerial threat and Keighton was someone we thought could provide us with that,” he said.

“He played for the Western Jets in Round 1 (of the Coates League) then missed last week throughout illness and wasn’t picked this week.

“He just complimented what we had and gave us further flexibility forward of the footy.

“One of my favourite parts of coaching is giving these young men an opportunity to play at the highest level they can.

“Keighton is straight out of the under-16s, I really enjoyed his game.”

Nicholas O'Kearney impressed for Keilor. Picture: Andy Brownbill

A different looking Keilor was able to overpower Strathmore in the second half, kicking 10 goals to one after the main break.

The Blues midfielder headlined by Nick O’Kearney, Damien Cavka and Corey Ellis were able to increase their influence on the contest.

Meanwhile Kyle O’Connor produced another monster performance on the big stage with four goals.

“It was a high intensity game of footy,” McGuane said.

“We had a different look forward of the footy compared to what we’ve had in previous years.

“In the middle I thought our guys did a good job of combating their bigger bodies around the ball. (Will) Jury, (Brock) Eggleston are very good Premier Division footballers.

“We’ve got some class around the ball ourselves so it made for a great match up. I think our depth in the middle especially is going to be quite good.”

Athan Tsialtas kicked three goals for Strathmore. Picture: Hamish Blair

Athan Tsialtas led the way for Strathmore with three goals while Cooper West was named his side’s best on the day.

Keilor will now take on division newcomers Airport West.

Strathmore will unveil its premiership flag from last year when it hosts Essendon Doutta Stars.