North Ballarat Rebels midfielder Hugh McCluggage again showed why he will be selected in the top couple of picks on draft day with a strong performance in the All-Stars game at Punt Road Oval.
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McCluggage gathered plenty of the ball and in typical fashion hit the scoreboard – kicking four goals. His impact on the match helped his side, team Judd, to defeat team O’Loughlin 15.7 (97) to 8.11 (59).
The match is a one-off hit-out between the nations best under-18 players. Making McCluggage’s great performance further reinforcement of his ability to mix it with the very best following his standout TAC Cup season and national championships.
Rebels coach Gerard FitzGerald said his ability to impact the game was something he again displayed – without necessarily accumulating huge numbers.
“I think what was most impressive about his game was the impact he had on the match,” FitzGerald said.
“His ability to win the ball, find space and finish well. He continues to do a lot of things right and that’s all you can do.”
Rebels captain Jarrod Berry returned to field after a long lay-off with a kidney injury. He played through the midfield and moved well and won his usual quota of inside football.
Top-ten draft candidate Willem Drew took on his usual role in the middle but also played off the half-back line at times - highlighting his versatility.
“It was good for him to get an opportunity to play behind the ball and show the recruiters that he’s got some other attributes to his game.”
While Cedric Cox played on a wing and utilized his leg speed and beautiful skills on both sides of his body.
FitzGerald said it was a great endorsement of the club’s system to have four players in the All-Stars game.
“It’s a really good endorsement of the football pathway. Two teams selected nation-wide and four have come through our program.”
Sandringham Dragons’ Tim Taranto was best afield.
