Brian Taylor

Recruited from Mandurah in Western Australia, Brian Taylor began his VFL career with Richmond during a golden era for the Tigers. Despite his obvious talent and heavy scoring at reserves level, he found it difficult to permanently displace established star Michael Roach from the full-forward position. After five seasons at Punt Road, Taylor sought a trade to Collingwood in 1985 to secure a role as a primary target. The move paid immediate dividends, as he established himself as the focal point of the Magpies' attack, utilising his imposing frame, strong hands, and explosive leading speed to dominate opposition defenders.

Taylor's time at Victoria Park was defined by his spectacular 1986 season, where he booted 100 goals to win the Coleman Medal. A flamboyant and emotional player, he became a cult hero for the Magpie Army, though his traditional style eventually clashed with the evolving demands of the game. His career ended on a bittersweet note during the historic 1990 season; despite kicking 49 goals in 16 games, recurring knee issues and a coaching preference for more mobile forwards saw him omitted from the finals series, missing out on the drought-breaking premiership. He retired at the end of that year aged just 28, leaving the game with an exceptional strike rate of nearly four goals per game.