Gerald Lynch
Geelong Falcons livewire forward Will McLachlan has had his dreams realised, as he was taken by Brisbane with pick six in Wednesday’s AFL mid-season rookie draft.
After kicking 13 goals last season, McLachlan was overlooked in the draft, but responded with strong form in the early stages of the Coates Talent League season.
The 185 centimetre forward has kicked 24 goals in five games this season to be the Coates Talent League’ leading goalkicker. His impressive stint including two bags of six and a further two five-goal hauls.
McLachlan was also part of the Young Guns side that played against Vic Metro and Vic Country in April.
He also played six senior games for Colac last season, kicking eight goals.
An elated McLachlan was interviewed on the AFL’s draft broadcast shortly after being selected. He said he had no idea it was coming.
“It’s just surreal… it caught me by surprise a little bit,” he laughed. “Luckily the manager brought a polo down for me… love the colours.”
Brisbane Lions national recruiting manager Stephen Conole said McLachlan has potential to slot into the senior side.
“Playing with the Geelong Falcons this year as a 19-year-old after not being drafted last year, (he is a) hybrid forward who is strong overhead and can impact at ground level with his speed and agility,” he said via Brisbane Lion’s social media.
The Lions have been mauled by long-term injuries, granting them four picks in Wednesday’s draft.
On the long-term injury list is small forward Lincoln McCarthy, which could potentially open up the door for McLachlan to push his way into the senior side. The Lions only used three picks.
McLachlan’s Falcons teammate Joe Pike, Geelong Victorian Football League forward-mid Tobyn Murray, Anakie’s Ajang Kuol mun and St Mary’s Matt Ling were among locals that were in contention that didn’t get pickedup.
Geelong didn’t have a selection in the draft.
