Crichton prevails in gripping medal count

Harvey-Brunswick-Leschenault midfielder Jesse Crichton was crowned winner of the 2019 Hayward Medal in Bunbury last night, polling 22 votes.

In one of the most gripping Hayward Medal counts seen in recent times, five players – Crichton, Mitch Lynn, Jace Cormack, Jesse Gribble and Rory O’Brien – were all tied on 19 votes, before Crichton received three votes in the Lions’ final game of the home and away season against Carey Park.

Post-count, Crichton spoke enjoying a solid season with a club he is honoured to represent.

“I love this place,” he said. “I’m obviously from Tasmania, so I don’t have a local club over here.

“But I do now.

“They’ve (HBL) made myself, wife and family feel very welcome.”

Check out Tuesday’s Bunbury Herald for more on the 2019 Hayward Medal.