There were some standout individual performances as Rochester delivered its first win of the season, while key Echuca players shone yet again to be named in the GVL Data Top Five.
Sam Reid was enormous for the reigning premier in its 55-point win over Shepparton, racking up 33 disposals, 22 of which were contested, 15 clearances, 10 tackles and four score involvements on his way to 147 ranking points and a second straight GVL Data Top Five appearance.
Logan Prout was also highly influential for the Murray Bombers, recording 16 kicks and two handballs from his 18 touches. He also took eight marks (three intercept, one contested) and had five contested possessions and four tackles.
Curtis Townrow earned the praise of co-coach Reid on his return to the side after a week off.
The backman notched 21 disposals, seven contested possessions and nine marks as one of Echuca’s most impactful players on the day. Five of his marks were interceptions, while three were contested, and he recorded a further six intercept possessions and five score involvements.
At Moon Oval, Joe Atley put together another shining display to drive Rochester to its first win of the year, defeating Tatura by 11 points and joining Echuca’s Reid in appearing in the GVL Data Top Five for a second straight week.
Atley recorded 26 touches, showcasing his ability to win the hard ball once again with 16 contested possessions and five clearances. He sent the ball inside the attacking 50 on 10 occasions, intercepting the ball in the air twice, with an additional nine intercept possessions around the ground, catapulting him to 138 ranking points.
Reid Gordon was instrumental for the Tigers also, notching 16 touches and three goals in an impressive display. Ten of his possessions were contested, while he also showcased strong hands, pulling down five contested marks.
GVL Data Top Five - Round five
Sam Reid (Echuca) - 33 disposals, 22 contested possessions, 15 clearances, 10 tackles, 4 score involvements, 147 ranking points
Logan Prout (Echuca) - 18 disposals, 5 contested possessions, 8 marks (3 intercept, 1 contested), 4 tackles
Curtis Townrow (Echuca) - 21 disposals, 7 contested possessions, 9 marks (3 intercept, 3 contested), 6 intercept possessions, 5 score involvements
Joe Atley (Rochester) - 26 disposals, 16 contested possessions, 5 clearances, 10 inside-50s, 2 intercept marks, 9 intercept possessions, 138 ranking points
Reid Gordon (Rochester) - 16 disposals, 10 contested possessions, 5 contested marks, 3 goals