MPNFL clubs recruit former AFL players

Somerville, Devon Meadows and Crib Point have had the pen out, signing ex-AFL players in a massive boost for 2023.

Dean Kent of the Saints (right) celebrates a goal. Picture: AAP Image/Daniel Pockett

Mornington Peninsula Nepean Football League clubs have wasted no time boosting their lists for 2023.

Devon Meadows started the ball rolling by signing former Melbourne and St Kilda hard nut Dean Kent.

“He’s a massive recruit for us,” Devon Meadows coach Ryan Hendy said.

“He’s straight out of AFL footy at 28.“

Kent, who spent the past four seasons with St Kilda, kicked 91 goals in 100 AFL games, his last coming against Sydney in Round 23 last month.

Hendy said he would add grunt to Devon Meadows’ midfield in 2023.

“We needed a bit of physicality around the contest and he’ll definitely bring that and he brings leadership qualities as well, that’s what we were lacking this year,” he said.

Tom Murphy of the Kangaroos.

Murphy playing for West Adelaide.

*Somerville has secured defender Tom Murphy, who played nine AFL matches for North Melbourne from 2018-2020 and turned out for Frankston Dolphins in the VFL this year and West Adelaide in the SANFL last year.

Murphy’s football journey started at Somerville as a junior, before he went on to play with the Dandenong Stingrays and from there was drafted to the AFL on the Kangaroos’ rookie list.

He made his debut against the Brisbane Lions at Docklands Stadium in round 12, 2018.

“We believe Tom’s experience and leadership will be an integral part of the Eagles in 2023,” Somerville said.

Ayce Taylor.

Ayce Taylor of the Crows.

*Crib Point has announced the signing of former Adelaide Crows rookie Ayce Taylor.

An athletic utility, the 21-year-old was added to the Crows list during the 2020 pre-season supplemental selection period but never played a senior game.

As a teenager he played 13 games for the Northern Knights in 2019 as a defender, shutting down some of the best forwards in the NAB League.

Taylor is related to former Crib Point president Stephen Espenschied.