Saint Joseph Salmon claims the Rising Star nomination for Round 11 after another display of speed

JOSEPH Salmon loves to run and kick a football as the Darwin Buffaloes discovered on Saturday night

First year Saint Joseph Salmon's foot speed and tackling pressure have made him an important player at the club. Picture: Felicity Elliott/AFLNT

JOSEPH Salmon loves to run and kick a football as the Darwin Buffaloes discovered on Saturday night.

The Round 11 nominee for the 2019-20 NT News Rising Star was at his fleet footed best in new club St Mary’s come-from-behind win over the double blue Buffalo jumpers.

The 18-year-old defender cum wingman-forward was a standout in the win, even having numerous shots at goal.

His coach Anthony Vallejo has been impressed by both aspects of his game.

“We had him on a wing and played him as a small forward where he could have kicked a lot of goals,’’ Vallejo told the NT News.

“I asked him after the game how many shots he had missed and he told me about eight.’’

Vallejo said Salmon’s foot speed, evasiveness and defensive tackling were big factors in his game.

“Joseph’s tackling pressure is very good and he can find the football, even if he did not do himself justice with his finishing near goal,’’ Vallejo added.

“He played off half back for Wanderers and was very impressive, but we’ve tried him further up the ground where he has done a lot of good things.’’

This season’s Rising Star will join a long list of talented youngsters to win the coveted trophy and $500 cash award.