Timboon Demons captain Marcus Hickey takes a strong mark as Kolora-Noorat’s Patrick Moloney attempts to spoil.
TIMBOON Demons big man Marcus Hickey believes being handed the 2012 captaincy has contributed to his stellar form.
The ruckman/forward was named skipper of the Demons this season at just 21 years of age.
“I didn’t expect it at all but it’s something that I always wanted to do,” he said.
“It’s good to get the opportunity and I think it’s helped me play better because I have to try and lead from the front.”
Hickey did just that on Saturday, playing a key role in the Demons’ 33-point win over three-time reigning premier Kolora-Noorat.
As well as getting on top in the ruck at Timboon, he provided contests at crucial times and when he rested in the forward line, he was an imposing target.
The young skipper finished the match with four majors.
While he modestly described his personal performance as “OK”, he was naturally pleased his side was able to maintain its unbeaten record four rounds into the season.
“We weren’t confident coming in but we knew we just had to do the little things right to be a chance, which we did,” he said.
“We won the contested footy, we were able to get our hands on it first and we stopped their run and carry.
“(This win) gives us a lot of self-belief.”
Power coach Ben Kenna highlighted Hickey’s influence.
“They had first use of the ball for most of the match,” he said.
“Big Barney was fairly dominant.”
Hickey, who has always played for Timboon Demons, was named third best for the host on Saturday, adding to a pair of best-on-ground performances for the Demons in the opening two rounds against South Rovers and East Warrnambool.
He hopes his side can claim another huge scalp when it travels to tackle Merrivale next Saturday.