Despite cross-town rivals Shepparton making a run at two months of unbeaten football, it was the Shepparton Swans that emerged as the undefeated club in the month of May - and a large credit of that goes to returning recruit Ethan Warburton.
The St Kilda VFL defender has missed only round three due to state-league duties, and the Princess Park tenants have relished the 23-year-old’s quality in the back six.
A strong read of the ball, Warburton’s intercepting ability has been a weapon off halfback for the Swans, while his ability to accumulate possession off the defensive arc has spearheaded attacking transitions.
It’s seen the Swans fail to lose a game in May, defeating Benalla, Seymour, and Rochester before having a draw with Mansfield in round eight.
Averaging over 35 disposals a game in the last month of autumn, 42 disposals in a round five three-point thriller against Benalla was Warburton’s best output.
Warburton stated a clean run with the body has provided crucial continuity, allowing the Swan to bank runs on the board week after week.
“I’ve been feeling a lot better with my body, I’m getting a good run at the moment - touch wood - and I think keeping my body in good nick has certainly helped,” he said.
Training with the Saints during the week, Warburton indicated that the drive for VFL selection and working in a high quality environment has only aided his individual form last month.
“The training level is a high standard, and I do believe having that extra touch with some good players does help you be better,” he said.
“Trying to get another game at the Saints is a good drive to have, and I want to put my foot forward for selection with my performances at the Swans.”
There’s no telling where the Swans could peak this season, and Warburton is enthusiastic about the red and white’s prospects after an unbeaten May.
“It’s been a great month for the Swannies, we’ve beaten some good sides like Seymour,” he said.
“(Shepparton Swans coach) Linc (Sullivan) has been great, we’re gelling well under him and there’s been a lot of team-based football, no ‘I’ type of players, just working together as a side to get wins against some good clubs.”
One thing is for certain, if Warburton’s in the side, beating the Swans will be no easy feat.
Ethan Warburton’s May Stats
Games: 4
Disposals per game: 35.3
Marks per game: 8.5
Rebound 50s per game: 8.6
Ranking Points per game: 139.8
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