The Harley Reid hype train continues to gather steam after the No.1 draft pick unleashed a stunning performance in just his fifth game to help lead West Coast to a drought-breaking AFL victory.
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Reid gathered 27 disposals, seven clearances, six inside-50s and a goal as the Eagles stormed to a 16.13 (109) to 10.10 (70) win over Richmond at Optus Stadium.
It was always going to happen at some stage this season, but on Monday night the 18-year-old was confirmed at this week's AFL Rising Star nomination.
And while his stats sheet was impressive, it had nothing on his highlight reel.
At almost every opportunity, Reid evaded, out-ran, out-muscled and fended off his more experienced opponents, finding space where others couldn't and providing silver service to the Eagles' forwards.
Few teenagers have been so hyped but the teenager from Tongala in northern Victoria appears to be thriving on the attention.
Teammates had predicted Reid wouldn't take a backward step if matched up on Dustin Martin, having modelled his game on that of the bullocking Tigers great.
And when they crossed paths in the third term, Reid didn't hesitate to give Martin a taste of his own signature fend-off.
"I have so much respect for that guy," Reid told Fox Footy after the game.
"It's pretty cool when your idols become your rivals. It's pretty surreal."
Suggestions Reid would seek a trade home during the Eagles' painful rebuild appeared to be rebuffed by the young star when he clutched his guernsey while celebrating a goal against Sydney in round four.
And Reid said he was lucky to have the support of the Eagles faithful who continue to turn up in droves, with 47,665 present on Sunday.
"Hopefully I can keep getting kicks and they can keep backing me in," he said.
"I've got a great support network over here and I'm loving it."
Reid is benefiting from the tuition of All-Australians Tim Kelly and Elliot Yeo, the latter back at his vintage best after overcoming a horror injury run.
The sky is the limit for Reid after five games, although the developing Eagles are keen to keep a lid on the Harley hype.
"He's a great kid. He works really hard and he wants to get better. Dealing with the (media) attention is just something we're trying to help him with at the moment," West Coast coach Adam Simpson said.
Australian Associated Press
