Defender Nick Hind has been rewarded for his best game of the season, receiving eight votes in round 16’s AFLCA MVP votes.

While he stole the limelight for kicking a stunning match-winning goal in the final minute to sink the Swans, Hind’s best contribution came with his effort across half back.

The 27-year-old was at his dashing best, collecting 25 disposals, 682 metres gained and eight score involvements.

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Not far behind Hind was vice-captain Zach Merrett, who produced a sensational game in the midfield.

Merrett was awarded four votes for his three-goal, 24-disposal and six-tackle game.

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Skipper Dyson Heppell earned three votes after a strong display off the backline after he registered 25 disposals and nine score involvements.

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From there, another three backmen were rewarded for their stellar games, with Mason Redman (two votes), Jake Kelly (one vote) and Brandon Zerk-Thatcher (one vote) all earning praise.

Round 16 AFLCA Votes: Essendon v Sydney

8 Chad Warner (SYD)
8 Nicholas Hind (ESS)
7 Zach Merrett (ESS)
3 Dyson Heppell (ESS)
2 Mason Redman (ESS)
1 Jake Kelly (ESS)
1 Brandon Zerk-Thatcher (ESS)