In just three games this season, Daniel ‘Brucey’ Willis has become Essendon VFL’s new livewire in attack.
The 25-year-old was among the Bombers’ best last Friday night, booting two valuable majors in the come-from-behind win.
“I asked ‘Brucey’ to do a bit of a job on Russell, one of their defenders who is an experienced head and can be quite damaging,” VFL Co-Coach Mark Corrigan said.
“And ‘Brucey’ not only nullified him, but found a way to kick goals and work throughout the full game for us.
“He kept presenting and getting the ball in his hands, didn’t stop until the final siren.
“It was definitely his best game for the club.”
Originally playing for Murrembeena in the Southern Football League, Willis was recruited by Shepparton in the Goulburn Valley Football League at the beginning of 2014 after booting 93 goals a season earlier.
But it was May of 2014 where the goal-sneak made his mark after he was called up to replace the injured Justin Madden in Goulburn Valley’s interleague side.
‘Brucey’ kicked six goals in Goulburn Valley’s win, raising the eyes of recruiters across the state.
Willis then signed on with Essendon VFL in June last year, making three appearances with limited preparation.
After a full pre-season, Willis has averaged 13 disposals this season.
The livewire is expected to play an important role in the VFL Bombers upcoming finals campaign.