The players set to shape VAFA Division 1 run in

Just six games remain in the VAFA Division 1 season and there is still plenty to play for. We break down the key players for every side in the bid for finals places and to avoid relegation.

Just six rounds remain in the VAFA Division 1 season and there is still so much to play for.

Ormond sits three games clear on top of the ladder while Kew and Old Peninsula are both locked at 9-3 as they chase the double chance.

Preston Bullants currently hold down fourth spot on the ladder as they chase a finals place.

Oakleigh is a game further back in fifth while Brunswick (5-7) and UHS-VU (4-8) look safe in the middle of the ladder.

The relegation battle looks down to three between Monash Blues (3-9), Therry Penola (2-10) and Elsternwick (1-11).

Here’s a look at the key players for every side on the run home.

Luke Ashen, Oakleigh

The league’s leading goalkicker to this stage of the season with 54 goals in 11 games, an average of just under five a game. A strong and powerful presence who is able to get right up the ground to allow his smalls to get to work.

Fletcher Banfield, Brunswick

The big ball winner is enjoying a fine season after crossing from North Brunswick in Division 3 where he won the league medal. Has brought strong consistency into the Brunswick midfield.

Sean Callander, Therry Penola

Returned to footy at the start of the season after a year off. Been one of the Lions better players with his ability to play in all areas of the ground.

Todd Cracknell, UHS-VU

Cracknell has locked down a place in the senior side over the last couple of seasons and would be right towards the top of the Vultures best-and-fairest count. Can play across the ground.

James Flett, Monash Blues

Well known among the Blues faithful for his “tough” and “unrelenting” footy. He’s developed into one of the most consistent midfielders in the competition.

Tom Gillard, Oakleigh

Enjoying arguably the best season of his career so far. The Krushers love his attack on the footy to put his body on the line.

Luke Green, Preston Bullants

The developing tall is having another fine season which saw him earn Big V selection. Dominates in the ruck for the Bullants but has proven he can be used in other areas of the ground.

Tom Hill has been brilliant for Preston Bullants. (Photo by Cath Coady/VAFA Media)

Tom Hill, Preston Bullants

He’s got enough on his plate as the coach but Hill is one of the division’s most important forwards with 34 majors this season. His experience is so vital to so many of his younger players.

Brandon Jackson, UHS-VU

In just eight games, Jackson has booted 26 goals. A powerful athlete who can turn a game in the middle of the ground or up forward, especially if he is isolated one-on-one.

Max Kleverkamp, Old Peninsula

A strong and powerful player who has played nine games this season. His form saw him earn Big V selection. Can do damage on the inside and outside of the contest.

Daniel Marchese, Elsternwick

Has been brilliant as the Wickers aim to avoid relegation this season with 31 goals and five mentions in the best.

Tom Nicholls, Ormond

Described as a “small powerful forward” by the coach, Nicholls is proving to be an astute acquisition for the Monders this season with 27 goals in seven games. Has a brilliant burst of speed on the lead.

Bailey Payze, Old Peninsula

Pulled on the Big V for the VAFA over the weekend and will be better for the experience. A crafty small inside forward 50 who only needs a small amount of room to hurt his opponent. Currently second in the goalkicking.

Jeremy Simon, Ormond

While the Monders have outstanding scoring power, Simon plays a key role in setting up the game from the back half with his intercept marking ability.

Regan Smith, Kew

A man who is capable of appearing on the highlights weekly. The Bears star can add class through to the middle and kick bags of goals up forward.

Nathan Thomas, Therry Penola

Proven to be an excellent recruit for the Lions as they look to avoid the drop. A strong contested presence around the ground.

Archer Vague, Monash Blues

A superb young talent. Been one of his side’s best this season with six mentions in the best.

Max Waters, Kew

One of the much loved figures at the footy club. Waters is Mr Consistent having not missed a game since May 30, 2015. A superb player at turning defence into attack.

Oscar Watt, Brunswick

One of the young stars of the competition. Has shouldered a large part of the offensive load in just his second season of senior footy.

Jakob Wiley, Elsternwick

In his second season with the club, Wiley has emerged as one of the key leaders. He’s been one of his side’s most consistent players.