The EFL Media Team’s own Gus MacLeod has cast his eye over more than 2,500 players in the Eastern Football League to form a list of the top 50 players in the competition, across all four divisions.
Be sure to pick up your copy of The Eastern Footballer for just $2 this week as Gus brings you 40-31.
50.Justin Ficorilli – Croydon
The dynamic small forward has been the shining light for Croydon over the past decade. Ficorilli managed to boot 42 goals last season for the Blues, which, as a small forward, is elite.Throughout his early days, he scared many Division 1 coaches with his pace and fancy skills and continues to do so but with years of experience under his belt.
49. Andrew Haining – Montrose
The Chandler medallist is a genuine beast in the ruck for Montrose and has been for many years. Haining has the ability to work around the ground and keep up with the midfielders, which at his size is impressive.
48. Michael Locco – North Ringwood
One of the most solid full backs in the EFL, Locco has applied his craft in the VAFA and the VFL with Williamstown. A solid fist, quick bursts of pace and the ability to read the game of a champion.
47. Ben Daniher – Blackburn
The Daniher name is a very famous one in football circles and Ben is no exception. The explosive midfielder with a booming left boot is a genuine work horse and is always at the bottom of the pack. When not winning countless clearances and hard balls for the Burners, you’ll find him up forward with a keen eye for goals.
46. Jackson Weatherald
It’s hard to argue with four premiership medals, Vic Metro & EFL representative honours. A class act for the Tigers in defence, capped off with an impressive display in the weekend’s 2017 WorkSafe AFL Victoria Community Championships.
45. Luke Williams – Knox
One of the most versatile players to have ever played in the EFL. Ruck, on-ball, forward and back – you don’t win the Chandler medal for no reason. Williams has been loyal to the Falcons, he is worth his weight in gold…and he’s a big boy!
44. Joel Perry – Vermont
Solid as a rock down back, dynamic up forward and can ruck as well! Perry was a dominant force at East Ringwood but now is a key player for the Eagles and they will need him to be firing come September.
43. Chris Annakis – Doncaster
A legend of the EFL and of Schramms Reserve. Chris has shown his class over a long period of time throughout all divisions, stepping up on the big stage, including in the recent 2017 WorkSafe AFL Victoria Community Championships. One of the most solid midfielders in the competition who regularly boots big bags.
42. Dan Archer – Rowville
Standing at 193cm, versatility is Archer’s key strength, being able to dominate in the ruck and kick goals. Originally from Tasmania, the former St.Kilda-listed big man has not missed a beat since transferring to Rowville from NFL powerhouse Heidelberg, enjoying a successful 2016 season, causing opposition coaches and players headaches with consistent, influential performances.
41. Alex Frawley – Rowville.
One of the toughest inside midfielders in the EFL. If you haven’t seen Frawley play, do yourself a favour and have a look at a game at Seebeck Oval. Frawley is one of the most underrated players running around, with the Rowville skipper leading by example week in, week out.
This list and opinions expressed in the article are purely subjective, and remain those of the author.
