Wil Dawson made a compelling case for an AFL return with a standout display in the VFL on Friday, as North Melbourne continue their search for answers in the forward line.
Stationed in attack at Windy Hill, the second-year Roo kicked three goals and took seven marks, three of them contested, in a strong all-round performance that helped Tom Lynch’s side to a 10-point win. The 19-year-old, originally drafted as a key defender, was thrust forward and flourished against former teammate Tyler Sellers, who had been swung into defence late.
MORE: 'Absolute crap performance': Fremantle player slams team after latest loss
Dawson lit up the first half with four scoring shots before the main break, including a brilliant set shot from the right forward pocket that highlighted his clean kicking and composure under pressure.
Timely boost for misfiring forward line
The timing couldn’t be better. With Nick Larkey shouldering the bulk of the scoring load and veteran Jack Darling managing just one goal in his past three games, North are desperate for support options in the front half. Paul Curtis has chipped in with 18 goals from a medium role, but the second key forward slot remains up for grabs.
MORE: All the latest AFL injury news
Dawson, who can swing at both ends of the ground, looms as a potential solution. He’s still building back to full speed after a shoulder injury curtailed his third senior match last season, forcing off-season surgery and a delayed start to 2025.
His versatility might be his ticket in.
While North’s backline depth has seen a logjam, with Griffin Logue, Aidan Corr, and Kallan Dawson jostling for spots, the queue in the forward half is shorter. Finnbar Maley debuted against Essendon and showed promise, but Dawson’s Friday display may edge him closer to a senior berth.