State Talent and DraftWho caught the eye in first State 18s trial game
Jordan McArdle
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28 Apr 2026
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Simpson medallist Milan Murdock described the Kia WAFL State team’s drought-breaking victory over the SANFL at Adelaide Oval on Saturday – their first since 2018 – as “bloody awesome”.
The star East Fremantle midfielder underlined his status as a big-game player, racking up a game-high 26 disposals to go with six marks, four tackles and three inside 50s in a standout performance for the new-look Black Swans who had 14 debutants.
It was his second state game Simpson Medal in a row to go with his best-afield honours in the Sharks’ 2023 grand final victory.
Murdock praised WA’s defensive efforts and said he was extremely grateful to feature in his third state game alongside the WAFL’s best.
“It’s bloody awesome,” Murdock told The West Australian after the 30-point victory.
“It was best defensive effort WA has had in a long time.
“I’m extremely grateful for the opportunity to be able to play with the best in the WAFL.”
The 24-year-old, who is averaging 28.3 disposals and seven tackles to go with four goals in 2025, continues to put his name in lights ahead of the AFL Mid-Season Draft on Wednesday 28 May.
Murdock said it would be a dream come true to get picked up by an AFL club.
“It’s what I’ve dreamt about since I was a kid and something I’ve really worked hard for my whole life,” he said.
“I train as hard as I can in the off-season to do everything I can to get my body right for games.
“I’ll always keep trying, to be honest. Hopefully, they’re looking at me (on Saturday) and have some interest.
“It would be awesome. Whatever happens, happens. I’ll just have to wait and see.”
Murdock will quickly turn his attention to Saturday’s top-of-the-table clash against East Perth at Sillivan Logistics Stadium.
Both teams are 5-1 heading into the blockbuster contest.
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