Sam Murray an AFL chance: Cresswell

Murray enjoyed a stellar season in 2015, polling third in the Morris Medal behind Albury’s Joel Mackie and Dean Polo, and ineligible North Albury star Nick Holman.

Cresswell said the youngster had attracted interest from a number of suitors.

“I’ve spoken to about six or seven clubs about him,” he said.

“There’s certainly been a bit of interest there from a few parties.” 

Murray joins a number of home-grown draft prospects, however he is the only one not to have played for the Murray Bushrangers in 2015.

Albury duo Nick Coughlan and Lachlan Tiziani are also in the mix for a spot on an AFL list.

Mooroopna’s Clayton Oliver is also set to feature on draft day after claiming the TAC Cup’s Morrish Medal, while Deniliquin ruckman Kyle Galloway is another chance. 

While the loss of the exciting wingman would be a blow, Cresswell was confident that the Raiders’ list would remain mostly intact.

Speculation has been rife surrounding the future of full-forward Jake Goldsmith, with many expecting him to return home to Queensland. 

Although he couldn’t guarantee Goldsmith would be at Birallee Park in 2016, Cresswell said the big forward was a “70-30” chance to remain at the Raiders.

“I’m extremely confident he’ll continue to play here,” he said.

“There’s no issues for him in terms of wanting to stay with the club, he’s close with Todd Grayson and a few others.

“It will come down to his work opportunities.” 

Cresswell said the only major loss on their list to date had been mid-season arrival Duncan Proud.

“Duncan has had to return to Melbourne for work,” the coach said.

“We’ve worked really hard to retain our list, outside of Duncan and potentially Sam Murray, we’re only going to lose a few fringe players.” 

Cresswell said the Raiders would continue to be active in terms of recruitment.

The club is already attempting to welcome midfielder Todd Bryant and ruckman Luke Visser back to the club.

“We’re looking at another five or six players that we’d like to have with us for next season,” he said.

“With that said, it’s still very early days.”

Rugged midfielder Matt Murray is believed to be on the radar of at least one Hume league club.