Dynamic midfielder Archie Perkins has become the Bombers’ third NAB AFL Rising Star nominee this season, earning the nod for his attacking masterclass against Adelaide on Friday night.

While Essendon’s defence restricted the Crows to their lowest ever score in the 11.18 (84) to 2.9 (21) victory, Perkins ensured the damage was done at the other end with game-highs in goals (three) and score involvements (nine).

The 19-year-old collected 18 disposals, including a career-high 12 kicks, along with four tackles and 338 metres gained.

Selected at pick No.9 in last year’s NAB AFL Draft, the Sandringham Dragons product has played 14 of a possible 16 games this season and has been one of the star youngsters behind Essendon’s resurgence under senior coach Ben Rutten.

Boasting speed, flair, goal sense and a competitive instinct, he has impressed across midfield and half-forward.

General manager of football Josh Mahoney said Perkins was putting together a memorable debut season.

“We’re pleased for Archie that his season to date has been recognised and his performance on Friday night was exciting to watch,” Mahoney said.

“Archie has been hungry to continually learn both his forward and midfield craft and we have been seeing improvement week on week since he made his debut in round three against St Kilda.

“We are excited by the chemistry our young players are building on the field and look forward to seeing their continual development in years to come.”

Perkins’ Rising Star nomination follows those of teammates Nik Cox (round 12) and Harry Jones (14).

The trio will be among 23 nominated players vying to become the overall 2021 NAB AFL Rising Star winner, with the winner to be awarded the Ron Evans Medal, along with $20,000 from NAB and a dedicated private banker.

Dyson Heppell (2011) and Andrew McGrath (2017) are the Bombers’ only Rising Star winners since the award’s inception in 1993.