Harry Nolan Earns His Second Lion of Round Nomination!

BY JACK KOVACIC.
Harry Nolan has been named the round 11 Motoink Motorcycles Lion of the Round for the second time this season, after a solid performance in defence.
Coburg withstood 59 inside-50s, and Nolan played a key part in the defence that stood up well under the pressure.
Nolan finished with 16 disposals, five marks and six spoils, continuing his great form since coming into the team early in the season.
He has now played seven senior VFL games, and found his footing quickly at the level.
“I think my speed and endurance for someone my size has helped me a lot at VFL level,” he said.
“Playing up in my older brothers’ teams throughout junior footy has helped me be more comfortable playing against bigger and more experienced players.”
Nolan played as the highest key defender against Footscray and believes he did the job that was asked of him.
“I had to pressure the ball a lot more up the ground or put enough pressure on the ball that it’s easier for the defenders further back to defend,” he said.
He thought the backline worked well together on Saturday, but also credited his teammates up the field for making it an easier day for the defence.
“The pressure from the midfielders and forwards up the ground made it a lot easier to defend [the ball] coming inside 50.”
Coburg are still without a win in 2018, but Saturday’s performance showed it is moving in the right direction.
“Unlike some previous games, when the opposition kicks a few quick goals, we didn’t try to change anything,” Nolan said.
”We just kept playing our way and were able to then kick a few goals in return.”
Nolan and his teammates now shift their focus to Casey, who they will take on at Casey Fields on Saturday afternoon.
This article is sponsored by Motoink Motorcycles – 117 Sydney Rd, Coburg. For more information, check out their Facebook page.