The phrase ‘a captain’s contribution’ rings especially true when it comes to Mooroopna’s Matt Deane.
Despite missing out on rounds seven to 11 with injury, the Cats skipper has enjoyed a strong season in the hoops.
Kick-starting his campaign with a solid season-opener against Shepparton Bears — registering 21 disposals, 14 uncontested possessions, six ground ball gets and seven tackles — Deane has been a model of consistency in the Cats’ engine room.
Deane leads the league in tackles per game this season (9), a blistering performance against Rochester a fortnight ago a particular standout.
A staggering 17 tackles against the Tigers in round 12 was a major catalyst for a vital Mooroopna win, and marks the most tackles in a single game by any player this season.
Matt Deane vs Rochester, round 12
Disposals: 16
Tackles: 17
Contested possessions: 6
Uncontested possessions: 10
Rebound-50s: 4
Handball receives: 8
The Cats have lost just twice this year when Deane has led his men out, Mooroopna’s other defeats coming while the skipper has been on the injury table.
Averaging 17 disposals and nine tackles a game, Deane has established himself as one of the league’s better two-way midfielders this season.
Also slotting nicely into this category is Shepparton United duo Adam Pigatto and Joel Serra, who average 22 and 25 disposals and eight and six tackles respectively.
Matt Deane in 2022
Disposals: 17.4
Tackles: 9
Contested possessions: 6.6
Uncontested possessions: 10.8
Handball receives: 8