Berwick coach Andrew Williams has praised the role of young midfielder Tahj De La Rue in the Wickers’ upset win over East Ringwood.
In the most stunning result of the Eastern League Premier Division season, Berwick got its third victory of the year against the table-toppers, with De La Rue scoring three goals and matching it with an experienced East Ringwood engine room.
It’s the teenager’s first season at Berwick, having crossed from Pakenham in the off-season.
“He’s been brilliant for us,” Williams said.
“He goes about his footy the right way.
“His pressure on the man and footy is first class.
“He’s a great kid and very adaptable which allows him to play multiple roles.
“To go forward and kick a couple of really important goals for us was great for him and he’s been a pretty important player for us this year.
“He’s not one of the biggest bodies going around but he certainly throws himself in and has taken on some of the stronger midfielders in the competition.
“It’s been a good test for him.
“He’ll only keep getting better and I’m looking forward to seeing him take his footy to the next level.”
De La Rue has been named in the best players in five of his 12 matches in 2025,
It follows a 2024 season predominantly at Coates League level, and season playing senior footy in the Outer East Football Netball League as a 17-year-old in 2023.
