He was among Werribee’s best with a 21-disposal haul on Sunday, but Will Fordham says he doesn’t get wrapped up in the numbers.

Instead, the 20-year-old is focused on what he can do when he doesn’t have the football.

“It’s not really about the possessions these days,” Fordham told NMFC.com.au.

“It’s more about the tackling pressure and just doing the one-percenters for myself, to try and get myself up there in the ones (seniors).”

Fordham came in for praise from Tigers’ coach John Lamont after the loss to Sandringham.

“He gives good run. He can provide overlap … he’s just got to keep working on his skill level,” Lamont said.

“He’s certainly got a bit to offer.”

Those thoughts were echoed by North Development Coach David Loader.

“He’s found a little bit of form over the past three or four weeks, where he’s been able to lock into his role and play that role well,” Loader said.

“He’s certainly getting a lot better at the contested ball and driving with his legs out of contests.

“He used the ball OK and got forward and gave himself an opportunity to have a couple of shots on goal, so it was pretty solid from him again.”

While his offensive game is blossoming, Fordham knows exactly what will take him to the next level.

“It’s about that chasing pressure, making it easier for the defenders, playing my role with the structure – and I guess it has got a part of being able to get the ball on the offensive side, but it’s more about the defensive stuff,” he said.