Versatile tall Rowan Marshall has ended 2017 in style, bagging four goals to ensure Sandringham secured their eighth win of the season in the 55-point win over North Ballarat.

The 21-year-old, who was recruited from Ballarat in last year’s rookie draft, had a stellar year to finish with 22 goals from 16 games that also included an AFL debut against the Sydney Swans in round 18.

“Rowan Marshall has had an outstanding season for us,” Sandringham coach Lindsay Gilbee told saints.com.au.

“He’s had a big impact in his first season in an AFL environment and he got a taste at the top level that we suspect won’t be the last opportunity he gets.

“He draws the football as a key forward and he knows how to get involved in games when its not going his way, so his season averages (14 disposals, five marks and four tackles per game) is something that shows he’s a really exciting prospect for St Kilda.”

Gilbee also lauded the effort of draftee Ed Phillips, bouncing back from a poor performance in the 70-point loss to Richmond a week ago to share the top disposals with fellow midfielder Nick O’Kearney.

“It was Ed Phillips’ best game for the football club, which is the benchmark for his football now.

“Statistically he got plenty of the ball (26 disposals, five inside 50s, six marks and two tackles), he competed and was hard at the contest which is the level that we expect from every player who pulls on the jumper.”