Outer East league 2023: Seville signs Shaun McMillan and regains Nathan O’Keefe

Seville has secured a key position player ahead of the clearance deadline in Outer East league. And the Blues have also regained ex-AFL man.

Nathan O'keefe celebrates a last quarter goal for Seville. Picture: Stuart Milligan

It’s been a productive month for Seville.

Former captain and ex-AFL Kangaroo Nathan O’Keefe has made a splendid return from a knee injury, kicking 7, 2 and 6 goals in three matches.

Now Seville has bolstered its big man stocks, signing Templestowe key position player Shaun McMillan.

The powerfully-built 23-year-old has played at a good level, including in EFL Division 1 with Montrose.

Seville coach Shaun Wilson said McMillan was “a hundred percent’’ what the Blues needed as they chased a top-three finish in Outer East Division 1.

“We just lack that one key position guy at the minute,’’ he said.

“He’s a Jack Nolan size, he’s six foot three, 100kg, he can play full back, pretty much straight up the spine, centre half-forward, full-forward, centre half-back, in the ruck if we need him.

“He’ll be pretty handy for us.’’

Seville coach Shaun Wilson.

Nathan Thompson on the move for Seville. Picture: Valeriu Campan

Seville played off in last season’s grand final but made a slow start to this season, losing two of its opening three games as injuries tested its depth.

Gaining momentum, the Blues have won their past three matches to climb to third spot, with a 5-3 record.

“We had a lot of injuries at the start of the year,’’ Wilson said.

“I’m hoping those injuries are over and we’re starting to get guys back every week now which has definitely helped us.’’

Lilydale recruit Nathan Thompson has made a big impact at Seville this season. He started out on a half back flank but has moved to a wing and been in the best most weeks.

Seville captain Jack Nolan has led from the front; against Healesville a fortnight ago he had 30 disposals at centre half-back and clunked 15 marks.

Jye Sciortino off half back flank has impressed with his run and dash and Dylan Broadway has been prominent.

Domenic Aloi had a day out against Hallam a few weeks ago, firing off 10 goals.

Wilson said all at the Blues were thnrilled to see O’Keefe, who played two games for North Melbourne in 2010, return in style.

“He’s a pretty handy guy to come back,’’ he said.

“He was always going to be like that, he‘s just a rubber man…he was always going to be the one to heal quick.

“The first game he only played half a game, the last two he’s played full games and he’s kicked 15 goals.’’

Wilson is adamant Seville’s best is ahead and is looking forward to challenging Emerald and Berwick Springs, the two teams above it on the ladder.

“We can only improve I think, mate, to be honest with you,’’ he said.

“I think the only way for us is up so hopefully we can come good at the right time.

“I’d rather get rid of all the injuries at the start of the year than get them right at the end of the year.’’

Seville faces Officer and then Emerald in the next fortnight.