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Hogan edges Cripps to win AFL Rising Star award

Melbourne forward Jesse Hogan has been rewarded for an excellent season, named the AFL’s 2015 Rising Star on Tuesday.

Hogan, who made his debut in Round 1 against the Gold Coast, booted 44 goals in 20 matches of a breakout season.

The 20-year-old kicked at least one goal in 19 of his 20 games and his strong marking and straight kicking saw him pip Cripps to the award.

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Hogan polled 49 votes, eight more than Carlton midfielder Cripps who often played a lone hand for his club in a season that saw them win the wooden spoon.

West Coast’s Dom Sheed finished third with 27 votes, while Sydney’s Isaac Heeney was fourth with 12.

Melbourne midfielder Angus Bradshaw finished fifth, with eight votes.

“Obviously, you don’t want to base yourself (on) individual awards, but I didn’t have a great run last year with injury,” Hogan said.

“This year, I didn’t set myself high expectations but, to be honoured by some of the names up there (in winning the award), it was a pretty good feeling.”

Hogan added the back injury had been a huge experience.

“You’re not invincible – most 20-year-olds have never had a serious injury like I had,” he said.

“You see these older players with injury and you think ‘nup, I’m fine – I will be okay.”

Demons coach Paul Roos said Cripps had been outstanding, and noted few key forwards so young had been so dominant in their debut season.

“No one has done what Jesse’s done … I’m pleased he’s won it,” Roos said.

– with AAP

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