Burgeoning midfield talent Xavier O’Neill was one of six Eagles to make their AFL debuts this year and he hardly looked out of place on the big stage. Those in the know would not have been surprised when the match committee called on Oakleigh Chargers product to face Greater Western Sydney in round 13. O’Neill, who had been knocking on the selection door all year following a consistent 2019 WAFL campaign where he averaged more than 13 disposals and close to two marks per game, was an obvious choice to replace Jack Redden, who succumbed to a quad injury the week prior. He played five straight games in 2020, averaging a serviceable 9.8 disposals, 1.8 marks, 1.8 tackles and 1.8 inside 50s across those outings. He also accumulated eight score involvements, ranking him 9th among this year’s Rising Star candidates for goal assists in 2020.
Standout performance:
If first impressions count, O’Neill certainly made a good one on debut against Greater Western Sydney in round 13. The 20-year-old was busy from the outset and found the ball early, which fuelled his confidence for the remainder of the contest. He finished it with 10 disposals, four tackles, three contested possessions, two intercepts and a memorable third-quarter goal. O’Neill pushed forward from his midfield post, positioned himself in the perfect place to get on the end of a crafty handball from Brendon Ah Chee, threw the Sherrin on his left boot and watched the ball tumble through the major opening. The entire squad converged around him and celebrated a moment that he will not soon forget.
Season averages:
Disposals: 9.8
Contested possessions: 3.0
Marks: 1.8
Tackles: 1.8
Score involvements: 1.6
Inside 50s: 1.6
Intercepts: 1.2
2020 AFL statistical rankings:
9th among Rising Stars: Goal assists per game
