Zorko backs Taylor for Rising Star
Brisbane forward Lewis Taylor deserves to win the AFL Rising Star award, according to teammate Dayne Zorko.
Taylor has enjoyed a stellar debut season, playing every game and kicking 11 goals.
Taken with the 28th selection in last year's national draft, the former Vic Country captain has made a seamless transition to the AFL.
The 173cm forward has also formed a strong connection with Zorko and small forward Josh Green.
Taylor is the third favourite to be named the AFL Rising Star.
Western Bulldogs midfielder Marcus Bontempelli is a clear $1.25 elect with bookmakers to follow in the footsteps of last year's winner, Jaeger O'Meara.
But Zorko said Taylor deserved more credit than he had been afforded.
"I'd like to think Lewie Taylor has sewn it up already," Zorko said. "He's had a fantastic year and he's been so consistent.
"He hasn't missed a game and he's been fantastic for us.
"He adds a lot of life and energy to the team. The way he covers the field is exciting."
Fellow Lion James Aish is the second favourite. The South Australian joined Brisbane as the seventh pick in last year's national draft.
The Lions went through a major rebuilding program last year after five players left to return home, but the youngsters who replaced them have had an immediate impact.
The young Lions struggled at the start of the season, but have won six of their past 11 games, including a 67-point victory over Collingwood at the MCG last week.
They face a tougher challenge tomorrow against Fremantle.
The Dockers thrashed them by 87 points in round 14, restricting Brisbane to just 17 inside 50s.
The Lions didn't score a goal until the third quarter that night, despite the heroics of veteran midfielder Tom Rockliff.
