A DOMINANT first half by Gippsland Power bottom-ager Sam Flanders was enough to earn him the title of AFL Draft Central’s TAC Cup Player of the Week, for Round 3.

The powerful forward was everywhere in the first half, booting three goals – finishing with four for the game – and could have have plenty more had he made the most of more opportunities, booting a couple of behinds and three out on the full shots. Despite the misses, he had many looks on goal and was a tower of strength against the Bendigo Pioneers defence. He hauled in seven marks – four contested – and had 12 of his 20 disposals in the first half.

Still 18 months away from being eligible to be drafted, Flanders was a top performer at the National Under 16 Championships last year for Vic Country and will be one to watch as a bottom-ager in the upcoming National Under 18 Championships over the next few months.

Flanders day out ended with 20 disposals (13 contested), seven marks (four contested), three tackles, two inside 50s and of course, four goals. If his performance on the weekend is anything to go by, there is plenty to look forward to in the next 18 months.

TAC CUP SCOUTING NOTES: ROUND 3

AFL Draft Central’s TAC Cup Player of the Week:

Round One: Bailey Smith (Sandringham Dragons)

Round Two: Max King (Sandringham Dragons)

Round Three: Sam Flanders (Gippsland Power)