Jackson Archer, Josh Hamilton star for Northern Knights after Vic Metro snubs
Northern Knights pair Jackson Archer and Josh Hamilton took out their frustrations on Calder Cannons after being overlooked for Vic Metro honours.
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Snubbed by Vic Metro Under-19s selectors, Jackson Archer starred in the Northern Knights’ 14-point win over Calder Cannons on Saturday.
The North Melbourne father-son prospect was dominant in the opening quarter and took two critical marks in the final term to halt Calder’s late comeback.
The classy defender was named best on ground in the 6.15 (51) to 6.1 (37) NAB League win after 17 disposals, six marks and five tackles.
“His ability to win one-on-ones when he’s undersized is a superpower for him,” Knights coach Leigh Clarke said.
“We continue to love what he brings us week-in and week-out and he was our captain today, which was good reward.
“He’s really secure with the ball in hand as well, he understands his role and plays it really well.”
Likewise, Josh Hamilton was prolific after being overlooked for the Vic Metro Under-17s.
The Yarrambat youngster was a surprise omission from the squad that held a trial match on the same day, instead producing a superb 29-disposal performance at Preston City Oval.
In just his second game at the level Hamilton revelled in the increased responsibility with the likes of Joel Trudgeon, Ewan Macpherson, Josh Ward and Joel Fitzgerald on VFL or Vic Metro Under-19s duties, finishing with 12 kicks, 17 handballs, five marks and six tackles.
Tom McMahon (27 touches), Jackson Bowne (26), Rhys Seakins (21, one goal) and Owen Mulady (20) were also key contributors.
After dislocating his finger in the warm-up James Nadalin performed strongly at half-back, while Jack Rossimel took several strong marks in attack.
Over-age draft hopes Trudgeon and Macpherson also missed out on Vic Metro selection, instead turning out for Carlton and Footscray in the VFL respectively.
Trudgeon made his VFL debut in the Blues loss’ to Northern Bullants, collecting 13 touches and a game-high 10 tackles.
The Macleod junior is currently the No.1 ranked player in tackles and SuperCoach points in the NAB League and sits seventh overall in disposals (27.6).
Macpherson booted two goals and had 11 touches as the Bulldogs remained perfect against Coburg
Clarke was confident their NAB League form and VFL experience would be recognised at the end of the season.
“That’s the strength of the NAB League program, you bring these kids back super engaged and maybe take a clip of their ego,” he said.
“Jack Ross did it when I was at Oakleigh, didn’t make Metro and got drafted, and he’s slotted into the best midfield of the last 10 years (at Richmond).
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“For us, Joel Trudgeon and Ewan Macpherson, we think they’ve got traits that deserve a step up on the national program.
“There’s a bit of confusion, we had to work with Joel on that one just to explain and put it in a way that makes sense to him.
“We certainly hope they can show they can play above our standard but go up and show they can play in adult footy.”
The Knights travel to Wangaratta to face Murray Bushrangers this weekend, while Calder hosts Geelong Falcons at Craigieburn.
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