NAB League 2019: Lachlan Stapleton shines in preliminary final win

Rowville junior Lachlan Stapleton put in another best afield display for Eastern Ranges, enhancing his draft claims by lifting his side into the NAB League grand final.

Lachlan Stapleton looks for options during the NAB League preliminary final. Picture: Graham Denholm/AFL Photos/Getty Images

Eastern Ranges midfielder Lachlan Stapleton continues to enhance his draft claims after lifting his NAB League club into this weekend’s grand final.

Stapleton was again best afield for Eastern in its preliminary final victory over Gippsland Power at Ikon Park on Saturday.

The Rowville junior has been listed as Ranges’ best player in three of their past four games and is regarded as one of the club’s best draft chances.

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He collected 21 disposals, took six marks and laid eight tackles in the 30-point win.

Eastern coach Darren Bewick said Stapleton overcame a groin niggle to put in a star display.

“His work inside and out was exceptional,” Bewick said.

“If people aren’t noticing that, I think they need to find another job because he has been doing that all year and totally deserves the opportunity that might present later in the year.”

Bewick again praised the captaincy of James Ross.

Lachlan Stapleton gets a kick away. Picture: Graham Denholm/AFL Photos/Getty Images

“James Ross the last month or so has been exceptional,” he said.

“Him and Joel Nathan in the key defensive posts were outstanding.

“Our leaders are really stepping up and the boys are following accordingly.”

Eastern built on its lead at every change to record a 10.8 (68) to 5.8 (38) win.

Riley Smith was also an important contributor to be in the best players, winning 35 hit-outs to control the ruck duel.

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Smith played six VFL games with Collingwood this year and Bewick said the 199cm player would be “around the mark” in November’s draft.

“He just gives the boys an added confidence,” Bewick said.

“His physicality has been really good and his follow-up around the ground is getting better.

“He’s taking a few marks, which is good, and the boys stand a little bit taller when he’s around.”

Darren Bewick addresses his group. Picture: Graham Denholm/AFL Photos/Getty Images

Eastern will meet Oakleigh in Saturday’s grand final.

“We’re going to have to do everything right to give ourselves a chance,” he said.
“The one thing I do know, the team we have and the squad we have really do have a crack.

“I can tell you they won’t die wondering.”

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