Jai Bednall @ Messenger wrote:Thomas is Central’s top dog
LEADING FROM THE FRONT: Paul Thomas during Central's Grand Final win.CENTRAL District skipper Paul Thomas has capped off a superb season by taking out the Bulldogs’ best and fairest award.
The 27-year-old polled 253 votes at last Saturday’s Norm Russell Medal count to win from fellow midfielders Scott Dutschke (219) and James Gowans (216).
It is the second time Thomas has won the award, adding to his victory in 2004.
``Both times have been in a premiership year which makes it even more exciting,’’ he said.
``It takes tough, consistent footy to win our best and fairest so for all the guys who finish in the top five or six it’s a real honour.’’
In contrast to his previous win, which came in the same year the courageous leader won the Magarey Medal, Thomas only polled three votes in this year’s Magarey.
He secured his win in Central’s count with a strong finish to the season, including a superb performance in the Dogs’ 38-point win over Sturt in the Grand Final.
``I had a job to do early on one of their main players (Jade Sheedy) and I managed to keep him quiet in the first quarter while getting seven touches myself.
``That set me up for a good game. I don’t think I’ve had a Grand Final where I haven’t been happy with my game yet which has been good.’’
Thomas’ victory was all the more remarkable because he missed four games with a broken finger midway through the season.
He played 19 games in total, tallying 399 possessions at an average of 21 per game. Only Chad O’Sullivan averaged more. Co-captain since 2007, Thomas is expected to step in to the role solely next season following Matthew Slade’s retirement.
``I guess it makes sense. But if the club wanted to keep co-captains and pair me with someone like Jason MacKenzie I would be more than happy to do that,’’ Thomas said.
``I think I’m ready (to lead the side on his own). I’ve matured a lot this year and have started thinking about the game more as a whole.’’