Majak Daw had a promising beginning to the VFL season, playing well against a seasoned player in Jared Rivers.
RELATED: Daw player profile
In wet conditions the key-position player notched 17 disposals, 8 marks, 5 tackles and 10 hit-outs to be one of Werribee’s best, and it was a specific plan that allowed Daw to play well.
"I knew that I was going to be playing against Jared Rivers and that he likes a wrestle, so I wanted to hit-up on him and stay on the move," he explained to NMFC.com.au.
Development Manager Ben Dyer was pleased with Daw’s output, saying he played both the conditions and the opponent well.
The conditions were wet and greasy under lights at Simonds Stadium, which in theory would have made it a tougher night for someone of Daw’s height and frame. But the big man stood tall.
"The marking is something I’ve been working on pretty hard through the summer and it was good to see it come out in a game," he said.
"It wasn’t the best conditions to play in. You just have to have the mindset that everyone is out there with you so it’s just about being consistent in all quarters, whether it was raining and dry.
"It was a good opportunity to play on a top AFL ground like Simonds Stadium."
RELATED: Werribee Report Card
In addition to the time Daw spent in the forward line, he also played in the ruck, rotating with Daniel Currie.
When he was in the middle, the number 38 often found himself matched up against a former teammate in Hamish McIntosh.
The two spent multiple years together on North Melbourne’s list, so Daw was all too aware of the threat McIntosh could pose.
"Speaking to our ruck coach (Alex Ishchenko) during the week, he told me to keep a short leash on Hamish and try to block his run,” Daw said.
“He’s (Hamish) a smart ruckman and footballer that can get to a lot of dangerous positions around the ground.
"I thought me and Crush (Currie) did that pretty well and I’m enjoying the partnership we’ve got going.”
The claim was backed up by Dyer, who was a fan of Daw’s overall game, both forward and in the ruck.
With the North forward line overflowing with key-position options, Daw will need to continue his good form to get a look in at the selection table.
Handily for the 24-year-old, the role he is playing at Werribee is almost identical to what he could potentially play for the Kangaroos, playing as a second ruckman and tall forward.
It’s something that Daw recognises himself, along with the need for patience.
"I don’t want to change too much with my game because what I’m doing right at Werribee is probably what can get me a game at senior level.
"Being Round 1 of the VFL, and we’ve had a lot of practice matches over the summer, I just wanted to play well in an important match and then put my hand up for selection."
