Mansfield has flown under the radar this Goulburn Valley League season, but there is one player who might just catapult the Eagles into premiership contention.
VFL talent Corey Rich looks set to qualify for Mansfield ahead of its upcoming finals series.
Rich, a classy forward who can run through the midfield, has played four games for the Eagles and 12 for VFL outfit Williamstown in 2022.
One glance at his recent GVL outing against Mooroopna and you can get a sense for how important Rich will be to the Eagles come September.
Without Mansfield gun on-baller Patty Marks, Rich was tossed into the midfield for majority of the round 16 win over the Cats.
Rich was instrumental with his ability to win the contested ball and chalk up clearances, along with his dead-eye accuracy in front of the big sticks.
The 25-year-old recorded 20 disposals, eight inside-50s, five clearances and booted three goals in an impressive outing at Mansfield Recreation Reserve.
It was his third quarter that really stood out to onlookers.
Thanks to GVL Data, we can highlight how Rich performed in the decisive term.
With the Eagles down by 10 points at the main break, Rich was one player for the hosts who stepped up a gear with eight disposals, five marks, three clearances and four inside-50 deliveries.
He also kicked Mansfield's only two goals of the quarter — with one coming from a sublime kick from 50 metres out.
Obviously there's still a bit to play out between now and when we discover Rich is dedicating the rest of 2022 with the Eagles, however there's no denying how valuable he will be to their premiership chances.
At a glance Corey Rich, round 16
Disposals: 20
Inside 50s: 8
Clearances: 5
Goals: 3
Data Points: 108