Towner named best on ground for Futures match

A GEELONG Falcon has emerged as a key name from AFL Grand Final Day after an exceptional performance in the day’s curtain-raiser event the 2024 Marsh AFL National Futures Boys match.

Local Newtown & Chilwell junior Josh Lindsay was awarded the best on ground medal for his efforts in Saturday’s clash, featuring as a member of Team Heppell in the side’s seven-point comeback win against Team Sloane.

Team Heppell was able to claw back a 25-point deficit during the final term, winning the game in a thrilling victory.

Team Heppell (green uniforms) piled on five consecutive goals to secure a 9.16 (70) to 9.9 (63) win at the MCG, in the annual match that showcases some of the country’s best under-17 boys footballers.

Lindsay secured the best player medal following a 20 disposal (18 kicks, two handballs) and seven mark performance.

Team Heppell was coached by Northern Territory Academy head coach Dale Eames, with Kyle Jenner (Central District), Jarrod Cotton (Gold Coast Suns Academy) and Danny O’Bree (Bendigo Pioneers) serving as assistants.

Colac’s Ben Rongdit, also a Geelong Falcons representative, was selected as part of Team Sloane for the match, bringing the Falcons’ contingent to two players.

Score breakdown:
Team Heppell 1.6, 2.9, 4.12, 9.16 (70)Team Sloane 2.3, 6.6, 7.7, 9.9 (63)

BEST
Team Heppell: Josh Lindsay, Oliver Greeves, Tom Burton, Daniel Annable
Team Sloane: Beau Addinsall, Zeke Uwland, Jack Dalton, Riley Onley

GOALS
Team Heppell: Charlie Banfield 3, Bailey Latsanis 2, Samuel Cumming, Archie Ludowyke, Aidan Schubert, Wes Walley
Team Sloane: Liam Hetherton 3, Zeke Uwland 2, Jack Dalton, Jack Ison, Riley Onley, Toby Whan