CTV> Preview of the 2008 E.W. Copeland TrophyThe Copeland Trophy night is on October 3 at the Crown Palladium in Melbourne.
CTV's Nick Hulett and Jonathon Bernard take a quick look into who they think will be in the mix for this year’s Trophy.
The hosts focus in on a few of the favourites for the best and fairest award while also highlighting one or two players who could surprise many by the end of the night.
Nick and Jonathon's favourites
Dane Swan: The 24-year-old led the club in average disposals per game (24.6) and total kicks (335) for the season. He played 24 games this year and registered his 100th game in the semi-final against St Kilda. His play during finals was impressive averaging 25 disposals, seven marks and four tackles.
Paul Medhurst: Collingwood’s only All-Australian this year, Medhurst was simply outstanding finishing the season with 50 goals to lead the club. He averaged eight marks a game and 13 kicks. The former Fremantle Docker developed his game this year to encompass a role in the midfield and at times the backline.
Leon Davis: After recovering from an ankle injury which hindered him early in the season, Davis finished with a wet sail averaging 23 disposals in his last six games. His best game this season was arguably in round 20 against Port Adelaide collecting 28 disposals and eight marks.
Travis Cloke: The 21-year-old had a difficult year working with a decimated forward line and playing through illness during the finals. Last year’s Copeland Trophy winner still managed to kick 40 goals and average seven marks a game. A consistent workhorse in the 23 games he played in this year, Cloke could make it back-to-back Trophies.
Nick and Jonathon's roughies
Dale Thomas: He developed his game and body this year to allow himself occasional stints in the midfield which is only a sign of things to come. Considered a 63 game ‘veteran’ at only 21 years of age, Thomas provided a spark in games to help get the team over the line. Thomas was one of the best in Collingwood’s 31-point win over Adelaide in the elimination final. The emerging midfielder had 20 disposals, five marks and kicked a telling goal.
Scott Burns: The only thing that could hurt the retired captain is his calf injury he sustained in round 21 which abruptly ended his season. Burns was inspirational in the engine room this year averaging 20 disposals and four tackles. His best game was against Melbourne in round 11 where he had a career high in disposals (36) and laid six tackles. Don’t be surprised if you see the sentimental favourite holding up his first Copeland Trophy.
Click HERE to view the 2008 Copeland Watch.
Click HERE to read about the coveted awards handed out on the night.
Click HERE to view previous winners of the Copeland Trophy
