BARNAWARTHA star Cameron McNeill predicts Chiltern co-coach Ricky Whitehead could defy history and become one of the handful of key forwards to claim the Barton medal.
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Despite predominantly being an award for midfielders, McNeill said Whitehead's dominance in front of goal would have had to capture the umpires attention.
Whitehead has booted 122 goals heading into the final round of the season.
Only Barnawartha duo Peter Woodford (141 in 1984) and Peter Cook (125 2011) have kicked more goals during the home and away season since 1970.
"I'm tipping Ricky Whitehead to win the medal," four-time Barton medallist McNeill said.
"I realise traditionally it is a midfielders award but I remember in 2013 Trent Castles finished runner-up and wasn't as dominant as Ricky.
"Another thing in Rick's favour is that Chiltern have won a lot of games.
"When Trent finished runner-up, Yackandandah didn't make finals.
"The way I look at it Rick's the pick."
Whitehead has booted eight or more goals on eight occasions.
He also kicked seven last weekend against Thurgoona in a best-on-ground display.
A typically modest McNeill, downplayed his chances of winning a record breaking fifth medal.
McNeill last year joined Holbrook midfielder Laurie McInnes as a four-time winner of the league's highest individual honour.
The classy midfielder previously topped the count in 2008, 2013 and 2014.
"I have spent a bit more time in the midfield this season in comparison to last year," he said.
"But I don't rate myself as a chance to be honest.
"Josh Spence has missed a bit of football but I expect him to still poll well.
"Tom Anson has enjoyed a solid season as well.
"The smokey from our club could be Matt Dalbosco who has played in the midfield and bobbed up with goals as well."
Tallangatta ruckman Scott Spencer is another with an undeniable chance.
Not only is the Hopper giant 200cm but rarely rests up forward and spends most of his time in the ruck.
Classy Thurgoona duo Sam Cross and Jayden Kotzur should also attract their fair share of votes.
Cross is a flashy half-forward that has booted 45 goals but missed three matches which could prove costly.
Kotzur is a previous winner of the Barton medal in 2016 and oozes class, especially around goal and has 58 goals which is outstanding for a midfielder/forward.
Rutherglen's Damien Wilson is also a proven vote catcher.
