The longer this season unravels, the more we are exposed to Touk Miller and his ferocious harassment of opposition ball carriers. In a season that has produced minimal highlights, the emergence of the first-year midfielder has provided a beacon of hope.
 
On a weekly basis, a quick glance back at the weekend’s tape will provide you with another case of the 19-year-old pursuing opponents like a bee hovering around a hive. If you begun compiling a dossier in round one, your manila folder will need replacing by now.
 
Pressure acts are the cornerstone of Miller’s game, something that started as a ticket to his next match until he quickly became a permanent fixture in Rodney Eade’s side.
 
After 14 rounds, the former Vic Metro captain is ranked fifth in the competition for applied pressure acts. This is an economist’s method of evaluating the game, of assessing who corrals, chases, tackles, spoils and provides implied and physical pressure on the opposition.
 
“It’s probably my number one thing I would focus on now leading into games. I think that’s what I’m basing my game off at the moment,” Miller told SUNS TV on Tuesday morning.
 
“I walk into games more so thinking about defensive pressure. But on the flip side I’m really trying to get my attacking game on song and my disposal efficiency and things like that, I really want to bring up.”
 
It’s not difficult to see how the return of Gary Ablett and David Swallow impacts the midfield from a football output perspective. But the confidence they provide their colleagues, along with direction and guidance during the heat of the moment, is just as important according to Miller.
 
“I think 'Gaz' especially, his voice around the contest. When someone like that’s playing it really helps everyone else grow around him, everyone sort of grows in confidence,” Miller said.
 
“Even Dave, as well he had eight tackles which was really good, his pressure around the ball he’s just a bit of an animal when it hits the deck he busts through. Having those boys back really made a big difference.”
 
Miller is one of only three players to have played every game this season, along with Michael Rischitelli and Kade Kolodjashnij. His durability has been as impressive as his consistency, particularly for such a young footballer.
 
The season can often seem to be like a five-set match, with the back-half of the year a testing time for those not accustomed to years in the game.

As we enter the second week of the Grand Slam, Miller’s body remains in good shape, with the highly talented teenager pleased with his ability to cope with the rigours of the game to date.

“I haven’t had any issues so touchwood it stays the same. I think I’m pretty lucky in that regard I’ve never had a major injury. My body’s holding up fine, no qualms, I just have to see out the rest of the season,” Miller said.