June 01, 2007
From The Mercury
Reported by Brett Stubbs
Cornelius, who turned 17 during the week, has been in excellent form, kicking five goals for the Mariners last week as a marking forward, as well as impressing for Glenorchy in the Southern Premier League and the AFL-AIS under-17 team during the pre-season.
"He is just a very smart player and he knows where the drop of the ball is," Cresswell said.
Reported by Brett Stubbs
FUTURE AFL draftee Aaron Cornelius will make his VFL debut for the Devils tomorrow against Port Melbourne, but for some Kangaroos-listed players it is their last chance.
Cornelius, who turned 17 during the week, has been in excellent form, kicking five goals for the Mariners last week as a marking forward, as well as impressing for Glenorchy in the Southern Premier League and the AFL-AIS under-17 team during the pre-season.
"He is just a very smart player and he knows where the drop of the ball is," Cresswell said.
"It is good he has got an opportunity at this level and I am sure he will be able to cope more than adequately."
Apart from playing for Glenorchy, Cornelius has already experienced playing senior-elite level, lining up on Fremantle's Michael Johnson while representing the AIS team.
"He gave Johnston a bit of a touch up, took 10 or 12 marks in the first half on him," Cresswell said. "He is very mature for his age and I spoke to his dad (former New Norfolk rover David) and he's really keen to have a crack at it and I'm sure he will handle himself very well."
But the pressure is on some of the Kangaroos players to help lift the last-placed Devils.
But the pressure is on some of the Kangaroos players to help lift the last-placed Devils.
Asked if the Kangaroos players still warranted selection, Cresswell said: "Questionable and they know that.
"We have spoken numerous times over the last week of what we require from them and what is expected.
"I am not going to hide that they need to improve in a lot of areas and . . . they are fully aware and understand what position we are in and I am quietly confident they will come ready to play for us on Saturday."
While Port Melbourne is a stand alone club, it does include former Geelong and Sydney rover David Spriggs, Carlton's 2000 No.4 draft pick Luke Livingston and former Tasmanian and Hawthorn player Tim Hazell.
