As tough as it was watching us lose, I am very proud of Peta. To win Man of the Match in his 1st Finals games on a losing team was huge. I thought he was outstanding. He was safe under the high ball, returned the ball hard, was solid on attack and defended well.
This game really was a defining game for me personally. While I have been happy with how Peta played in 10 regular season games, I still wondered whether he could be a fulltime 1st grader. I thought he may possibly only peak as a second tier replacement due to his versatility. Last nights performance showed me he can. I thought Peta exhibited great confidence and composure in a big game. He wasnt overawed and just did his job.
Peta definitely still has more learning and improvements to make in all the facets of his game. He possibly could have stopped that try if in better position defensively and while his second man play is improving with more experience he can become better. He will never be a speed demon so he has to make sure his decision making on attack and defence is top notch.
In saying all this, I think the main factor for Peta's development will just be gaining more playing time and experience in top grade. If this was his last game this season, I have to say he has had a rookie year even I couldnt have dreamed of. So proud and happy for the nephew.