Patton and Draper selected in AFL U18 All Australian team

By ZAC MILBANK

Two South Australians have earned selection in the AFL U18 All Australian team, with Will Patton and Sid Draper having their consistent campaigns recognised.

Torrens University SA U18 captain Patton was named in the back pocket while SA’s MVP for the Championships, Draper, gained selection on the half-forward flank.

Patton, who was regularly entrusted with the kick-ins for the Croweaters, finished with an average of 17 disposals at an impressive 89 per cent efficiency rate, five marks and five rebound 50s.

The West Adelaide backman also showed an encouraging ability to curtail both tall and small opponents in the opposition’s attacking 50m arc.

Draper, one of several bottom-age players to make an impact in the cherished red guernsey, showed great maturity for a 17-year old as he registered eye-catching averages of 25 disposals, 12 contested possessions and four tackles.

Selected in SA’s best players in each of the four matches across the Championships, the South Adelaide midfielder is a smooth-mover with exceptional skills.

A member of last year’s victorious SA U16 Championship-winning team, Draper has hit the ground running playing against men while earning a Powerade Breakthrough Player nomination in just his second Hostplus SANFL League game.