Geelong superstar Patrick Dangerfield has added yet another medal to his growing premiership bounty after being named the player of the finals series.
As the veteran revelled in securing his first premiership with the Cats, the votes from the AFL coaches confirmed his all-conquering September.
Dangerfield was second in Norm Smith Medal voting in the grand final, finishing behind teammate Isaac Smith, who was also given best on ground honours by the coaches.
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But Dangerfield’s 27-disposal effort earnt him 12 votes from the coaches and 22 overall for the Gary Ayres Award.
“Patrick’s steely determination to win contests and his fierce desire to compete was on show during the preliminary final and on the biggest stage, grand final day,” Ayres said.
“Patrick is a deserving winner.”
Before making another bold statement at Geelong’s Mad Monday celebrations, Dangerfield said the premiership victory was the ultimate reward for all his seasons of toil.
“Probably just (the knowledge) that the job is done, it’s complete, versus every other season where it’s close but no cigar,” he told SEN.
“That feeling of total satisfaction that everything we set out to achieve we have been able to do. It’s been so close for so many years, to finally come up triumphant, it’s hard to describe.”
Already a Brownlow medallist, multiple All-Australian and best and fairest winner, the premiership medallion was the one thing missing from Dangerfield’s trophy cabinet.
His performance was also redemption for his 2020 grand final display against Richmond when he played one of his worst games for the year and finished with just 12 disposals.
This time the 32-year-old had not just the 27 disposals but nine clearances, seven inside 50s and 468m gained in an epic performance.
“I would have been totally stoked to have one possession and win, but it is wonderful to contribute,” he said.
“To be honest, that’s the whole team. That’s been the mantra this year, for everyone to have their moments throughout the game.
“It’s just such a well-rounded performance because it was so even from so many. That’s been the hallmark of our game this year and it’s just been so wonderful to be able to execute that in the big moments.”
