Close count tipped for Hayward Medal

The Plunkett Homes SWFL will tonight crown its best and fairest player for the 2013 season, when the Hayward Medal count is held in Bunbury.

This year’s count is tipped to be a close contest, with several footballers able to lay claims to the prestigious accolade.

The 2012 winner was former West Coast Eagle and Richmond on-baller Jeremy Humm, from Augusta-Margaret River and the 2013 medallist could again come from the Hawks.

Playing-coach Tim Noakes and midfielder Cody Enders are expected to poll well, but Humm and prime mover Ben Noakes have both missed a lot of football in 2013.

After losing only one game in the home-and-away season, the Eaton Boomers have several prospects at tonight’s count, including Chris Atthowe.

Engine room aces Jye Cormack and Josh Bowe are also expected to poll well.

Jesse Gribble, who won the Hayward Medal in 2010 leads Bunbury’s chances, while reigning premier Busselton have one of the favourites on their list in Daniel McGinlay.

Donnybrook’s Curtis Guglielmana and utility Jeff Smith, the 2009 medallist, are likely to win votes while ruckman Paul Lindsay and midfielder Dave Cowan will lead the Collie Eagles’ charge.

Two of the architects behind South Bunbury’s rise up the ladder this year in Damon Bull and Matt Giacci are expected to poll well, while Carey Park young-gun Braden Lawler has also had a good year.

Harvey-Brunswick-Leschenault captain David Newman has caught the eye and Harvey Bulls’ forward Greg Sanders has also been a dominant force.

Tonight’s count will be held at Vat2 restaurant.