Player Rater

24th September 2011 Category: Round in review

Image: Slattery Media Group

1. Jordan Lewis (Hawthorn): A great finals performance, attacked every contest like it was his last. There were players with more possessions, but no one influenced the game more than Lewis.

2. Dane Swan (Collingwood): Top possession winner on the ground and a great four quarter performance. Showed great strength and speed on a number of occasions and kicked a crucial goal in the last quarter.

3. Sam Mitchell (Hawthorn): Faded a little in the second half, but was easily best on ground in the first half. 31 touches at over 80% efficiency.

4. Shaun Burgoyne (Hawthorn): As Tom Harley said in the commentary, there were times when Burgoyne looked like his old explosive self. Won a number of key contests early in the game and repeatedly put his body on the line.

5. Travis Cloke (Collingwood): In many ways Cloke was the difference between the two teams. Allowed Collingwood to go long to contests when they struggled to find time and space early in the game. Took a great mark on half forward in the third quarter.

6. Scott Pendlebury (Collingwood): Quiet early, had only 2 touches in the first 10 minutes, but came into the game in the second quarter. Finished as the equal top possesion getter, but his efficiency was slightly down.

7. Lance Franklin (Hawthorn): Managed to influence the game, despite little opportunity and poor delivery. His goal in the last quarter deserved to be the game winner.

8. Cyril Rioli (Hawthorn): Not a high volume game, but his work rate was extraordinary. Seemed like the one Hawthorn player that could find time on half forward. Finished with 8 inside 50's.

9. Grant Birchall (Hawthorn): Stood up one on one and imposed himself on the contest, played like a player worthy of All Australian selection.

10. Luke Ball (Collingwood): An unlikely hero. Had a solid game without being spectacular, but found himself in the right place at the right time.