Hugh McCluggage booted three goals to complement his 25 disposals as Vic Country fell two points short against Vic Metro in its second match of the AFL under 18 championships on Monday. The North Ballarat Rebels-listed midfielder shone in the topsy-turvy contest at Geelong’s Simonds Stadium.

McCluggage, who is aligned to Hampden league club South Warrnambool, impressed Vic Country coach Paul Henriksen.

“He’s had over 50 possessions in the first two games at national championship level – it’s all very positive for Hugh at the moment,” he said. “His ability to hit the scoreboard and take opportunities to have shots from outside 50 stands out.”

Koroit premiership wingman Willem Drew slotted two goals in his Vic Country debut, while fellow Saint Jarrod Korewha had five inside 50s playing an attacking role from centre half-back.