The Harley Reid hype practice continues to assemble steam after the No.1 draft decide unleashed a shocking efficiency in simply his fifth recreation to assist lead West Coast to a drought-breaking AFL victory.
Reid gathered 27 disposals, seven clearances, six inside-50s and a objective because the Eagles stormed to a 16.13 (109) to 10.10 (70) win over Richmond at Optus Stadium.
And whereas his stats sheet was spectacular, it had nothing on his spotlight reel.
At nearly each alternative, Reid evaded, out-ran, out-muscled and fended off his extra skilled opponents, discovering area the place others could not and offering silver service to the Eagles’ forwards.
Few youngsters have been so hyped however the 18-year-old from Tongala in northern Victoria seems to be thriving on the eye.
Teammates had predicted Reid would not take a backward step if matched up on Dustin Martin, having modelled his recreation on that of the bullocking Tigers nice.
And once they crossed paths within the third time period, Reid did not hesitate to provide Martin a style of his personal signature fend-off.
“I have so much respect for that guy,” Reid informed Fox Footy after the sport.
“It’s pretty cool when your idols become your rivals. It’s pretty surreal.”
Suggestions Reid would search a commerce dwelling throughout the Eagles’ painful rebuild seemed to be rebuffed by the younger star when he clutched his guernsey whereas celebrating a objective towards Sydney in spherical 4.
And Reid stated he was fortunate to have the assist of the Eagles trustworthy who proceed to show up in droves, with 47,665 current on Sunday.
“Hopefully I can keep getting kicks and they can keep backing me in,” he stated.
“I’ve got a great support network over here and I’m loving it.”
Reid is benefiting from the schooling of All-Australians Tim Kelly and Elliot Yeo, the latter again at his classic finest after overcoming a horror damage run.
The sky is the restrict for Reid after 5 video games, though the growing Eagles are eager to maintain a lid on the Harley hype.
“Harley had a good day. Hopefully he gets that Rising Star nomination,” coach Adam Simpson stated.
“He’s a great kid. He works really hard and he wants to get better. Dealing with the (media) attention is just something we’re trying to help him with at the moment.”
Source: www.perthnow.com.au
