Bailey Humphrey has taken giant strides over the last few weeks with the Gold Coast Suns.
The 18-year-old, who was selected with pick 6 in the 2022 draft, has strung a trio of high quality games together since he had 15 disposals against Melbourne in Round 8.
Humphrey had 19 touches, five inside 50s and a crucial final-quarter goal in Saturday night’s narrow win over the Western Bulldogs in Darwin.
See the fine finish below:
BAILEY. HUMPHREY.
— 7AFL (@7AFL) May 27, 2023
What a goal from the 18-year-old ⭐#AFLSunsDogs pic.twitter.com/f8mMcPraI0
Former Essendon forward and leading player manager Scott Lucas was taken by Humphrey’s clutch goal in what was another strong display.
“He’s all class,” Lucas said on SEN’s Crunch Time.
“It came off a critical one-on-one contest win from Matt Rowell at centre half-forward.
“The Dogs were going long down the ground, Rowell impacts, the ball ends up in the forward pocket and the class finish of Humphrey.”
Humphrey’s performance led to three votes in the MEGT Rookie of the Year after picking up one vote for his 26 touches, seven inside 50s and five clearances against Brisbane in Round 10.
Some movement on the @MEGTAustralia Rookie of the Year leaderboard! ⭐️
— AFL Nation (@AFLNation) May 29, 2023
Humphrey rises and Weddle polls as the leaders stay quiet this round! #AFL pic.twitter.com/DcAuQSErkB
The Gippsland Power product and his Suns teammates will next be in action when they host the Adelaide Crows at TIO Stadium this Saturday night.
More in AFL
“This time next year…”: Cornes’ bold pick for his next AFL head coach in waiting
“I think he is the most ready head coach in waiting.”
Bombers expect the worst for emerging ruckman
Nick Bryan is expected to miss the remainder of the season.
"Groundhog Day": Where to now for the winless Dees?
"My advice would be to find out who wants to be there."