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Sleep-deprived Dangerfield lapping up Brownlow win

Patrick Dangerfield might be a little bleary-eyed, but a day after his record-breaking win in the Brownlow medal, he’s still on an emotional high.

The star Geelong Cats recruit described the celebrations as "long and hard," following his remarkable triumph.

“A few nerves throughout the count, but really nice to celebrate with everyone afterwards,” Dangerfield told reporters.

Dangerfield embraces his wife Mardi after winning the Brownlow. Pic: Getty
Dangerfield embraces his wife Mardi after winning the Brownlow. Pic: Getty

The Cats star polled an unprecedented 35 votes to claim the AFL’s highest individual honour, but admits the night’s celebrations have made a whirlwind day of interviews and media commitments challenging.

“It was late, three o’clock is very late for me.”

I’ve been very lucky to play with two wonderful footy clubs so to be able to share it with the boys last night and spend time with one another was pretty special.”

Dangerfield polled the most votes in Brownlow history. Pic: Getty
Dangerfield polled the most votes in Brownlow history. Pic: Getty

The former Adelaide Crow says although he’s delighted to have claimed the Brownlow, the thing he craved above all else was ultimate success with the Cats.

“While I’m very humbled and honoured to win the award I’m also very envious, as I know every player would be, that’s not playing in this week’s grand final.”

Dangerfield polled in more matches - 15 - than any previous winner and claimed the Brownlow in his first season at Simonds Stadium.

However, the 26-year-old says to have come within one win of playing in the game’s biggest showpiece, makes it that much harder to take.

Still relishing the win the day after the Brownlow ceremony. Pic: Getty
Still relishing the win the day after the Brownlow ceremony. Pic: Getty

“It’s still very raw and very disappointing.”

“To have had the season we’ve had which was really positive, we only lost six games the entire year and played our best footy against the best sides, but have fallen just short. It doesn’t get any harder than that.”

The 26-year-old was the shortest-priced favourite in living memory and adds the award to his AFL Players Association and AFL Coaches Association gongs.

His nine three-vote efforts ties that of previous winners Nat Fyfe (2015) and Greg Williams (1994).