A SUPERB 39-possession game from Tom Scully has earned him this week's nomination for the 2010 NAB AFL Rising Star award.

Scully, who turns 19 this Saturday, was taken by Melbourne with the first pick in the 2009 NAB AFL Draft and has played every game this year for an average of 21 disposals.

He is the second Demon to be nominated this year, following Jack Trengove in round five.

While his stellar performance on the big stage of Friday night against the Western Bulldogs didn't quite get his team home, it was as emphatic an announcement of arrival as you could wish for - Scully's last term produced an amazing 18 touches.

With the match in the balance, it was an effort that lifted a good game into the realms of great.

Overall, his 39 disposals included seven clearances, five tackles and a goal.

Melbourne coach Dean Bailey said Scully's performance in the wet reflected his meticulous preparation and fantastic endurance.
 
“Tom’s professionalism has such a young age is a credit to him," he said. "His strong work ethic has seen him make a successful transition to AFL football.
 
“His effort Friday night in difficult conditions is testament to his skill level.

"All Melbourne fans can look forward to his further development in the years to come."

Scully's junior career saw him twice selected as an Under-18 All-Australian and he captained the side in 2009. He was also in the 2007-08 AIS-AFL Academy Squad.
 
Originally from the Narre Warren Junior Football Club, Scully played for the Dandenong Stingrays and Haileybury College.