Three Lions have been nominated as finalists for the AFL Players’ Most Valuable Player.
Dayne Beams, Stefan Martin and Dayne Zorko all received the highest votes among their Brisbane teammates.
Each season, every player on an AFL list selects his three most valuable teammates. The top three vote-getters at each club are then listed as options in the second stage of voting.
In this stage every AFL player votes via a 3-2-1 vote system for the Most Valuable Player of the season. Players are forbidden from voting for teammates during this time.
The AFL Players’ MVP Awards will be broadcast on Fox Footy on Tuesday 15th September, from 8:30pm.
Dayne Beams
The former Magpie has been outstanding in his first season up north. His first MVP nomination for the Brisbane Lions is evidence that, after just 16 games with the club, he is already highly respected by his teammates.
The 25-year-old has led the Lions in disposals, clearances and inside 50s this season, and ranks in the competition’s top 20 for centre clearances.
He’s also proven himself to be a leader, evidenced as early as Round 3, when coach Justin Leppitsch praised Beams for his performance without the support of captain Tom Rockliff and senior defender Pearce Hanley.
“I thought Dayne (Beams) was terrific in trying to spark the team, but there’s not enough others that want to jump in along the journey and be part of it,” Leppitsch said.
Stefan Martin
After an outstanding second half of 2014, Stefan Martin carried his impressive form into the new year, averaging more hitouts (31 per game) than ever, while still getting plenty of the ball.
The 28-year-old former Demon has averaged 21 disposals per game in his third season at Brisbane; his ability to bring midfielders such as Dayne Beams, Tom Rockliff and Daniel Rich into the game has ensured he’s remained one of the Lions’ most valuable players.
Dayne Zorko
In a difficult year for the Brisbane Lions, Dayne Zorko has provided many of the club’s highlights.
The speedy midfielder/forward has led his side for running bounces this season (along with Lewis Taylor), regularly breaking the game open and providing the Lions with some of their best forays inside 50.
Averaging more than 22 disposals, four tackles and three inside 50s per game in 2015, Zorko has kicked multiple goals in five games so far this season.
