Zach Merrett is fast establishing himself as one of the leading young players in the competition.

The 19-year-old midfielder is in just his second season, but in the last three weeks he’s averaging 29 disposals a game. 

He collected 31 possessions in the loss to Hawthorn but it’s team success he covets.

“I guess it’s sort of pleasing but it’s still very disappointing to lose.  It’s a team game obviously so it’s hurting a lot,” Merrett said.

Recruited from the Sandringham Dragons, the young Bomber has quickly adapted to life in the AFL.

He’s already played 32 games and is one of the leading tacklers in the competition. 

Merrett’s defensive pressure was again on show against the Hawks as the Bombers took it up to the reigning premiers in the first half.

“To challenge them to half time was really pleasing but we were obviously disappointed in that third quarter,” he said.

“We were taking risks in the game and defending really well, putting pressure on the footy.  

“It dropped away in that third quarter and Hawthorn took over.”

Merrett said the side would be looking to build on the first half performance when they meet St Kilda next Sunday.