FOR the second time in three weeks, an Oakleigh Chargers’ dynamo was recognised as the Draft Central Player of the Week. Potential number one pick, Matt Rowell won the Facebook vote against Tasmania Devils’ Mitch O’Neill after both players had terrific games over the weekend. Rowell joins teammate, Noah Anderson and Eastern Ranges’ Mitch Mellis as the nominations for the 2019 season thus far. Rowell played in a losing Oakleigh Chargers outfit against Sandringham Dragons, but was the clear standout with an impressive defensive game through the midfield, while also providing an option around the ground.

Rowell picked up 31 disposals, seven marks (one contested), eight clearances, four inside 50s and three rebounds, while also laying 11 tackles in the Chargers’ 10-point loss to the Dragons. Impressively, Rowell had just six handball receives in the game, as well as 19 contested possessions showing a clear desire to win his own ball and be the one giving it out to teammates in space. While the talented midfielder will spend most of the season at Carey Grammar for school football, and Vic Metro for the National Under 18 Championships, it is clear he will be a vital cog in Oakleigh’s charge for the premiership later in the year.

DRAFT CENTRAL PLAYER OF THE WEEK:

ROUND 1: Noah Anderson (Oakleigh Chargers)
ROUND 2: Mitch Mellis (Eastern Ranges)
ROUND 3: MATT ROWELL (OAKLEIGH CHARGERS)