Melbourne star Oliver built for finals football: Cornes

Port Adelaide great Kane Cornes has lauded young Melbourne star Clayton Oliver after his excellent display against Geelong in last night’s Elimination Final triumph.

Oliver was one of the dominant midfielders on the ground, ending the night with 30 disposals – 18 of them contested – six tackles, five clearances, five score involvements and 319 metres gained.

Cornes believes the 21-year-old is now shading Carlton star Patrick Cripps as the best young midfielder in the competition.

“I think he is shading Patrick Cripps as the best young midfielder in the game,” Cornes told SEN’s Crunch Time.

“He’s now elevated his game by adding some agility, he’s got penetration in his kick, I think he’s the best handballer in the game, in traffic his vision is extraordinary.

“He’s built for finals on the big stage and he covers the ground, he’s going to be some sort of player.

“He’s a freak, I loved his game last night.”

The Power premiership player says the Demons have what it takes to go all the way after breaking through for their first finals win since 2006.

“I’ve been pretty positive about them all year,” Cornes added.

“I think they’ve got the game plan to be able to do that.”

Melbourne will now take on Hawthorn in a mouth-watering Semi-Final next Friday night at the MCG.