Augusta-Margaret River coach Matt Jamieson says Simon Moore to be in ‘strong contention’ for Hayward Medal

Augusta-Margaret River senior coach Matt Jamieson has backed star midfielder Simon Moore to win this year’s Hayward Medal, saying he expects the former Subiaco player to be “in strong contention”. Speaking at half-time of The West Australian’s coverage of Sunday’s qualifying final, Jamieson said Moore had brought plenty to his group in both an on and off-field capacity, since arriving at Gloucester Park before last season. “He is a quality individual; it was really good to get Simon last year, albeit we had the COVID interruptions,” he said. “But it was probably a year Simon and I could reflect upon quite deeply and add to our list this year. “I think that has complemented his game and he has been injury free this year; he carried a few niggles last year and I think his footy has done the talking.” The Hawks coach, who was also at the helm when Mitch Lynn won the club’s last Hayward in 2018, said Moore’s consistency should see him poll well on Friday night. “I don’t want to be biased here as his coach but I don’t think he has played a bad game all year,” Jamieson said. “I think he will be in strong contention to win and to go on from Mitch (Lynn) winning it and coming runner-up a couple of times, it would be nice if Simon can replicate that this Friday.” Moore has played 26 of a possible 27 games since arriving at the club, and his precise ball use and ability to find time and space in the heat of the midfield has made him stand out above the rest. He is among the favourites for the medal, which will be announced on Friday night, alongside Bunbury’s Harry Creasey, Busselton’s Mitch Tenardi and Harvey’s Brad Holmes. More SWFL: The midfielder played 68 games for Subiaco, including a premiership at the club in 2019. It was his last game with the Lions before signing with the Hawks. He also said Moore had been a key factor in the club’s recruitment drive over the last 18 months, including bringing former West Perth defender Laine Rasmussen to the club. “It helps when he is best friends with Simon,” he laughed. “It is a long way to travel, but Laine has experience and footy nous. “He is pretty much a leader in that back-half, he directs and guides the boys. “He and Kael Coleman have been two very handy inclusions.”