MILES BERGMAN was the least experienced player for Port Adelaide’s in Friday night’s qualifying final win over Geelong but he appeared anything but.
The assured 19-year-old had 18 disposals, seven marks and three tackles while also contributing four clearances.
The blonde-haired right footer has admitted going into the game he was nervous, but says his teammates and some early touches made him feel comfortable.
“It was pretty nerve wracking but very exciting,” Bergman said of his first finals experience.
“I think we played a really strong game and really showed what we can bring.
“I think the last few weeks we’ve been building and we’re ready for a big hit-out next week.
“I did play a couple of junior finals but that doesn’t compare to this. I think it’s a new experience and I just had to soak it in and roll with the punches and take advice with the older boys.”
Injury and a lack of any league football because of the club’s inability to participate in the SANFL in 2020, meant Bergman had to wait until round 1, 2021 to make his AFL debut.
He has now played 22 of a possible 23 games this campaign – some as the medical substitute – and looked at home at the level, playing numerous roles in the defence and midfield.
“I definitely felt a lot more comfortable throughout the year and ready to go for the (qualifying final),” Bergman said.
“It was a pretty exciting time building up and once the game started, I was pretty nervous but once the cobwebs were out you feel pretty comfortable.
“The support from the team really helps as well.”
While he will no doubt enjoy a weekend off after a taxing first AFL season, the Round 21 Rising Star nominee is also mindful of his side maintaining its momentum after seven straight wins.
“We’ve had a big couple of weeks so having a bit of time off will be good,” Bergman said. “But (we need to) make sure that we don’t relax too much and we still crack into what we have to do and look after our bodies and get ready for the week ahead.”
As well as some rest and a solid training session on Saturday, Bergman will also find time to watch the semi final involving Brisbane and the Western Bulldogs to find out Port Adelaide’s opponent for next Saturday’s preliminary final.
The teenager is not overawed by either option, confident that his side has what it takes to beat either team.
“They’re both great teams and we’ve lost to both of them (this season) but we’ve also beaten the Dogs as well so if we play our best footy, we can beat any team,” Bergman said.
“I’ll definitely be watching but I think if we just play our best footy, it doesn’t matter who we come up against.”
