BRAD Close produced arguably his best performance as a Cat in Geelong’s Round 2 clash with Sydney.
The 23-year-old kicked four goals to go with 18 disposals, a game-high 11 score involvements and five tackles.
Close’s performance impressed coaches’ Chris Scott and John Longmire who awarded him six votes in the AFLCA champion player award.
“In a tough night for us it was a really complete game for a small running forward,” Geelong coach Chris Scott said.
It’s the second consecutive game Close has featured in the votes after receiving one vote for this 16 disposal and two-goal game in Geelong’s Round 1 win over Essendon.
“He was really good last week – we thought he was in the best five players on the ground – and he was clearly our best player.
“He’s developing really well.”
Patrick Dangerfield remains Geelong’s highest placed overall on the leaderboard in equal tenth with 10 votes.
Round 2 Coaches’ Votes
10 Isaac Heeney (SYD)
8 Callum Mills (SYD)
6 Brad Close (GEEL)
2 Tom McCartin (SYD)
2 Paddy McCartin (SYD)
1 Chad Warner (SYD)
1 Errol Gulden (SYD)
Leaderboard
20 Patrick Cripps (CARL)
20 Christian Petracca (MELB)
16 Andrew Brayshaw (FRE)
15 Jordan De Goey (COLL)
15 Isaac Heeney (SYD)
13 Touk Miller (GCFC)
13 James Sicily (HAW)
12 Lachie Neale (BL)
11 Mitch Lewis (HAW)
10 Patrick Dangerfield (GEEL)
