Top Picks Lead the Way

Collingwood young gun Dale Thomas has been named the Round 2 AFL NAB Rising Star after another great display for the Pies.

Thomas’ speed and versatility have made him tough to match up on and he capitalised by pulling in an amazing 10 marks and 20 possessions against Hawthorn.

The number two selection in last years draft joins the number one pick Marc Murphy as the second nomination of 2006.

Thomas and Murphy are tipped to enjoy an entertaining battle for the overall NAB Rising Star Award as early indicators for both players point to long and outstanding careers as they represent those fierce rivals Collingwood and Carlton respectively.

Considered an outsider for a top 5 selection at last years draft, Collingwood surprised many when they selected Thomas at number two. His case was strengthened when he booted four goals in a dominant display for Gippsland Power in last year’s TAC Cup grand final and he has so far justified Collingwood’s faith.