With the looming inclusion of a Gold Coast club in the AFL in 2011, the VFL is seen by many as a competition that will be harvested by AFL clubs looking for more mature, seasoned players. Certainly, the success this season of former Port Melbourne small forward Robin Nahas, Williamstown spoiler Liam Picken and Sandringham defender Stefan Martin at Richmond, the Western Bulldogs and Melbourne respectively has Former Shepparton star cements himself as a regular in developing Werribee line-up. only underscored the talent in the VFL. One player who seems to be commanding more and more interest is Werribee’s Michael Barlow, who was recognised last season in the VFL Team of the Year. Since arriving at Chirnside Park from Shepparton United at the start of the 2008 season, Barlow has played every one of a possible 33 games. “Michael has been sensational this year. He has just taken his game to another level,” enthused Atkins. Asked if Barlow would be a player who would come under AFL recruiting scrutiny when the Gold Coast entered the AFL, Atkins replied: “I really hope he’s on their radar.” Atkins noted that Barlow had progressed from exclusively playing across half-forward to someone who has pushed into the midfield and can hold down centre half-forward, as he did against Collingwood in round 10. While Barlow may not be the quickest player, he makes up for that with great endurance. Barlow, along with Michael Rockefeller and a host of rookies, has been the upside of an otherwise disappointing start to the season for Werribee. The Tigers have blooded 10 first-game players – Will Martiniello, Josh Bryce, Nathan Black, Darren Haby, Steven Kennedy, Brant Dickson, Joel Magnabosco, Lachlan Baddeley, Nathan Schroder and Gaby Denton, a Geelong Falcons TAC Cup player who was used under the 23rd player policy introduced this season. Atkins said the motto at the club is that all players have to earn senior selection. Positions were not given away. “We would think that all the first-year players have got a game on their merits,” Atkins said. “They’ve all stuck their hand up, which is good for them and good for the club.” Some have made just a cameo appearance, but others like Will Martiniello have played every game and been among the better players. Martiniello, a graduate from the Murray Bushrangers’ TAC Cup premiership last season, is certain to come under consideration for the Fothergill-Round Medal. However, he may strike the most opposition from one of his teammates – Michael Barlow.
Last Modified on 03/07/2009 19:32