ACROSS the first four games of the 2022 Toyota AFL Finals Series, three players were unanimously deemed best afield in the eyes of the coaches; Steven May was one of those.

The Demons’ defender polled the perfect 10 votes in Melbourne’s Qualifying Final clash with Sydney, leaving him in equal first place for the AFLCA’s Gary Ayres Award (best finals player).

Lachie Neale (Brisbane) and Caleb Serong (Fremantle) were also awarded 10 votes in their respective matches, while Gary Rohan claimed nine votes in the Cats’ thrilling victory.

May’s recognition came after he kept Lance Franklin scoreless, while also recording 16 intercept possessions and seven marks from his 23 disposals.

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Clayton Oliver was the other Demon to poll in the 22-point loss at the MCG, earning three votes on the back of a performance that consisted of 29 disposals, eight clearances and two goals.

For the Swans, Luke Parker was given eight votes, while James Rowbottom, Callum Mills and Jake Lloyd all earned three votes apiece.

Melbourne v Sydney

10 – Steven May (MELB)

8 – Luke Parker (SYD)

3 – James Rowbottom (SYD)

3 – Jake Lloyd (SYD)

3 – Clayton Oliver (MELB)

3 – Callum Mills (SYD)

Leaderboard

10 – Steven May (MELB)

10 – Lachie Neale (BRIS)

10 – Caleb Serong (FREM)

9 – Gary Rohan (GEEL)

8 – Luke Parker (SYD)

7 – Marcus Bontempelli (WBD)

7 – Hugh McCluggage (BRIS)

7 – Michael Walters (FREM)