Toby McLean’s stellar performance in the Western Bulldogs’ thrilling two-point win against the West Coast Eagles on Sunday night has seen him earn high praise from the coaches.
McLean was one of eight players – and six Bulldogs – among the AFLCA Champion Player of the Year Award voting from the game.
He collected nine votes, after playing a lockdown role on star Eagle Andrew Gaff.
McLean had a big impact with 20 disposals and nine tackles, while restricting Gaff to 15 disposals.
Next best for the Bulldogs was Josh Dunkley, who spent a lot of time forward to earn seven votes for his 22 disposals, nine tackles and a goal.
Skipper Marcus Bontempelli (21 disposals, one goal) collected five votes, with fellow midfielders Tom Liberatore (two) and Jack Macrae (one) also earning recognition for their 21-disposal and 29-disposal games, respectively.
Dashing defender Caleb Daniel also had a big impact, with his 25-disposal night leading to three votes from the coaches.
Midway through round 16, Bontempelli sits in ninth spot on the leaderboard with 45 votes, with Macrae (41 votes) in 11th spot.
Brisbane Lions midfielder Lachie Neale remains at the top with 75 votes.
Western Bulldogs v West Coast Eagles
9 – Toby McLean (WB)
7 – Josh Dunkley (WB)
5 – Marcus Bontempelli (WB)
3 – Caleb Daniel (WB)
2 – Tom Liberatore (WB)
2 – Liam Ryan (WCE)
1 – Jack Macrae (WB)
1 – Tom Barrass (WCE)
