📊 Statistically Speaking: Round 4

In our weekly column, Statistically Speaking, we scoured the Champion Data stats to review Round 4 by the numbers.

STAR PERFORMER

Cometh the hour, cometh the man on Saturday when NT Thunder co-captain Abraham Ankers led his side to their first victory of season 2019, winning the ANZAC Medal for best-on-ground. The inside midfielder was superb, leading his team for disposals with 27 (18 contested), plus nine clearances, five inside 50s and three goals in a true match-winning performance as Thunder came out on top by 25 points.

RANKINGS RULER

Sydney’s Robbie Fox certainly left an impressive in his return to the NEAFL on the weekend. Fox was electric for the Swans in their victory over the GIANTS, collecting 38 disposals, 15 clearances, five inside 50s and three goals, for a handy total of 193 Champion Data ranking points. His teammate Colin O’Riordan wasn’t far behind, with his 42 disposals, 12 marks and eight inside 50s culminating in 179 points.

ROOKIE WATCH

Sydney University youngster Harry Morrison caught the eye after his Round 4 performance in a close five-point loss to Canberra at Henson Park. The 20-year-old was named among the Students’ best players after finishing with 14 disposals – 12 of which were contested – five tackles and three great goals. Originally from Williamstown in Victoria, Morrison has taken steps in his development over the last few years through the ranks at Sydney Uni, and is one to watch for the future.

YOUNG KNOCKING DOWN THE DOOR

Gold Coast utility Aaron Young is doing his chances on an AFL recall no harm after yet another outstanding performance on the weekend. The 26-year-old currently leads the NEAFL in average Champion Data ranking points per game with an impressive 150.6. His latest match on the weekend – in a 97-point loss to Brisbane – was another dominant display. Young had 40 disposals, 13 clearances and six inside 50s (for 157 ranking points) to be a shining light for the SUNS in a otherwise disappointing day.

SUNS DEFENSIVE BREAKDOWN

Gold Coast were sent packing to the bottom of the ladder on Saturday by Brisbane after a 97-point thumping, and the stats paint an interesting picture of where it might be breaking down for the club. Gold Coast is ranked No.1 in the competition for clearances and centre bounce clearances, but are getting found out when they lose possession. The SUNS have so far conceded the most points in the competition from turnovers (292 in four games) and stoppage clearances (153) when they aren’t winning the footy in the first instance.

TERRITORY FOOTY ON DISPLAY

NT Thunder earned their first victory on Saturday, and they did it in true Territory style. Fast, free-flowing footy was on display as they ran the Bombers off their feet, and scored heavily. NT scored 94 of their 123 points from turnovers, tearing Redland open on the rebound. They also kicked 18 goals from the corridor, 10 goals from opportunistic goals in general play, and six goals on the run.

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