McLeod kicked two goals in a performance that earned him the ‘Polly’ Farmer Medal for best afield.
“I was happy to be playing,” McLeod said. “I didn’t really look at my own performance, I went and played the game and they called my name out at the end of the game.”
McLeod’s stellar on-field performance added to the privilege of captaining the Indigenous side.
“Being captain is a huge honour,” he said. “For what the game means, where it came from and how it eventuated to be able to lead the guys, who are my peers and to play amongst those Aboriginal guys is pretty special.”
McLeod came out of Friday night’s clash unscathed and is in good physical condition as the football season draws nearer.
“I pulled up alright, I felt pretty good while playing, and ran the game out ok,” McLeod said.
“It’s hard to compare with other seasons, but I’m feeling pretty good at the moment. To play that game and get a run under my belt holds me in good stead and helps me with my preparation. So hopefully I can continue it on, and we’ll see how we go.”
Although losing to Essendon by 50 points, McLeod was pleased to return home to Darwin and play football.
“It was great to play in front of the home crowd, in front of the family and just to be able to do that again. I really enjoyed it, even though it was stinking hot!”
