Tigers star recognised in Anzac Day win over rivals

Enigmatic utility Matt Van Schayk has been awarded the Lyndsay Horton Medal for his best afield efforts in Railways’ victory over traditional rival North Albany in Tuesday’s special Anzac Day fixture at Tigerland.

Van Schayk spent time in the midfield and up forward, kicking three crucial goals in the low-scoring affair as the Tigers began their season in great fashion with a bruising 22-point win.

A premiership player with the Tigers in 2013, Van Schayk said he was shocked to hear his name called out as the best player on the ground as judged by the umpires.

“It was a great day and a good crowd,” the 25-year-old said.

“It was good to get a win with the boys to start the year strong.

“I played midfield and forward, kicking three goals was handy.”

Van Schayk, the Sean Plaisted medallist in 2015 with 51 goals, kicked one goal in the hard-fought first quarter before two strong chest marks late in the second as he added two more majors.

Van Schayk’s time in midfield was highlighted by clearance work and a number of pressure acts.