For the better part of almost a decade, Lachie Smith has patrolled defensive lines in the Goulburn Valley League.
One of the league’s most talented defenders, Smith showcases his ability to read the play and take crucial marks week-in and week-out
Thanks to GVL Data, we get the chance to highlight another one of his sublime performances at the weekend against Tatura.
Kyabram was able to seal a comfortable victory over the Bulldogs, however, Smith’s best-afield effort caught the eye of the sports desk.
Smith, a multiple GVL premiership player, was able to do as he pleased on Saturday.
Smith gathered 25 disposals, 15 marks — 10 of those intercept marks — and four rebound 50s in a classy showing.
Although difficult to highlight Smith’s score involvement in the win, the Bombers were able to mount 11.8 (74) from turnovers.
Smith’s 10 intercept marks also made up for more than half of Kyabram’s total for the match.
At a glance Lachie Smith v Tatura round 12
Disposals: 25
Kicks: 20
Marks: 15
Intercept marks: 10
Contested marks: 6
But it’s of little surprise to see those numbers from Smith.
The ex-VFL talent has recorded double-digit figures in intercept marks three times this campaign — with his season-best of 11 coming in round four against Benalla.
A quick glance at his season average reveals that Smith leads the competition in intercept marks.
Smith leads the pack with an astonishing 6.2 intercept grabs per game.
Star Tatura defender Brad Ryan, who is out with injury, has totalled 4.3 from his four appearances this season.
Mansfield gun and former VFL talent Jack Hutchins racked up four intercept marks at the weekend to take his season average to 3.7
Smith has accumulated 111 marks for the season at an impressive figure of 9.2 per game.
Top performers Intercept marks season average
Lachie Smith (Kyabram): 6.2
Brad Ryan (Tatura): 4.3
Jack Hutchins (Mansfield): 3.7
Lachlan Waite (Seymour): 3.7
Ted Lindon (Shepparton): 3.7