Why Victorian coaches voted for Lachie Ash

Garry Lyon has explained the thought process of the Victorian coaching staff in awarding Lachie Ash the E.J. Whitten Medal.

The rebounding GWS defender amassed 25 disposals, took seven marks, had an equal game-high nine intercept possessions as well as seven score involvements and almost 500 metres gained in Victoria’s 24-point win over Western Australia in Perth on Saturday night.

Many believe Nick Daicos should have won the medal for his 38 touches and seven clearances while Zak Butters and Marcus Bontempelli would have also been popular choices.

Some criticised the decision to hand Ash the individual accolade but Lyon says it was the conclusion of the Vic coaching panel given the impact of the emerging Giant.

“I’ll say this, I’m very careful about this because I’m not talking down Lachie Ash ever. I thought he was magnificent,” Lyon said on SEN Breakfast.

“Some of the stuff has been a bit disrespectful. But this was the coaches’ decision, it’s not the media’s decision.

“I think Nick Daicos 1000 per cent could have won it. I think Marcus Bontempelli or Zak Butters could have won it. They were all in the mix.”

Lyon admits the Victorian backline was placed under pressure after the game-ending injury to Jacob Weitering and it was Ash who stepped up the most.

“Our most vulnerable part of the game was in the back half. I think he had the most intercept plays in the game, he saved us, his attack and run was great,” he continued.

“Our midfield was going ok, but we got split open by the way in the midfield (at times). They kicked five goals from our centre bounce but as a rule we were well served there.

“That’s where my thoughts went. I thought Lachie saved us on many occasions. I don’t want to talk him down at all. It was a fantastic win.

“I understand people wanted Daicos, Bontempelli or Butters, but coaches see it differently, clearly.”

The chairman of selectors insists all in the Vic coaching box added their two cents and it was Ash who came out on top.

He also rubbished any suggestion that Daicos was harshly judged because of his continuously lofty standards.

“There was a bit of debate. We canvassed the whole box,” he added.

“I didn’t (look at stats). Everyone had their say. There was great support for Nick.

“People who think there is some jealousy or ‘don’t give it to Nick’ - it’s just not how it worked.

“The coaches voted for it. Lachie Ash is our E.J. Whitten Medallist and I was rapt and thrilled for him.”

Read all of Lyon’s inner sanctum insight following his role with the Vic side upon the return of Origin.