When West Coast’s prized recruit was secured during last year’s Trade Period he would have envisaged running out in blue and gold for the first time in front of close to 60,000 screaming fans in a memorable Optus Stadium debut. It didn’t quite pan out that way, but nor did 2020 as most people planned or hoped. Kelly’s first game was a win played behind closed doors with not even family allowed to attend, and the challenge of building chemistry with new teammates was made that little bit tougher by restrictions around training as a full squad throughout the COVID-19-impacted season. Despite that, the smooth-moving midfielder produced a strong first year back home in the west, topping the club’s Brownlow Medal tally (with Dom Sheed on 11 votes) and developing an understanding with superstar ruck Nic Naitanui that grew increasingly ominous as the season progressed. He will be among a host of Eagles eagerly anticipating a more normal season next year.
Standout performance: Showing his value against the Saints
The round 17 comeback win against St Kilda was rated by coach Adam Simpson as one of the best of his tenure, and Kelly simply refused to be beaten as the Eagles clinched a finals berth. Missing midfield guns Luke Shuey, Elliot Yeo, Dom Sheed and Jack Redden, West Coast needed something special from its senior onballers and Kelly, Nic Naitanui and Andrew Gaff were inspirational. From his season-high 30 touches, Kelly extracted nine clearances, gained 522m and booted the go-ahead goal from a half-chance in the desperate final quarter. It was an utterly compelling performance when his team needed it most, underlining exactly why West Coast committed to bringing the South Fremantle product into the fold from Geelong.
Season averages:
Disposals – 20
Pressure Acts – 21.3
Total Clearances – 4.1
Inside 50s – 4.1
Goal Assists - 1
2020 AFL statistical rankings:
3rd: Goal assists
4th: Pressure acts
9th: Inside 50s
