Harry Jones bolts into AFL draft calculations, running ability compared to a great of the game

Vic Metro key forward Harry Jones has rocketed into AFL draft calculations after impressing at the under-18 national championships and has been likened to one of the greats of the game.

Harry Jones in action for Vic Metro.

Harry Jones has bolted into AFL draft calculations with an impressive AFL Under-18 National Championships campaign with Vic Metro.

The 194cm key forward played all four games for Metro, kicking four goals and displaying a strong work-rate around the ground.

Jones produced his best against championship winners Western Australia with 11 disposals, three marks, three tackles, three hitouts and two goals.

Likened to Nick Riewoldt by PEGS coach Clay Illman, Vic Metro coach Brett Alison was equally impressed.

“Nick’s known for his enormous work-rate and the GPS figures tell us that’s certainly a strength of Harry’s,” he said.

Harry Jones marks against Vic Country.

Harry Jones backs into the pack against Vic Country.

“Harry moves really well, good runner for his size, likes to launch at the ball, so as a key position prospect he’s certainly one to keep an eye on.

“He’s played a lot of school footy for PEGS, so it would have been a big shock in the lift in standard playing at championships level.

“I think the recruiters would have sat up and had a good look at him. He’s done his (draft) chances a lot of positive in the past month.”

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Jones was one of two Cannons players to play all four games for Metro.

Calder vice-captain Daniel Mott showcased his contested ball-winning ability, averaging 17 disposals and five clearances per game.

However, Alison said the young gun’s outside game still needed work.

Daniel Mott attempts to wrap up Luke Edwards.

“When the ball is in a contested situation that’s when he’s at his strongest but certainly needs to improve on his outside work,” he said.

“When the ball leaves the contested area, he needs to get on his bike and spread and keep up with his opponent defensively.”

Brodie Newman had been in sparkling form for the Cannons leading up to the championships but hamstring soreness curtailed his campaign.

The Cannons skipper starred in the opening game against Vic Country with 19 disposals and six marks before returning with 13 disposals and nine marks against the Allies.

“I think the AFL clubs would have seen more of the same from Brodie, showing he can hold down those key position areas,” Alison said.

“He’s probably a little undersized, so he’s probably more suited to a third tall role at AFL level.”

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