SAM REID'S aerial strength is the standout feature of his game, and the 19-year-old proved it in his first final on Saturday night at Etihad Stadium.

The Sydney Swans forward was crucial in his team's dominant second quarter against St Kilda, providing a target up forward and constantly creating a contest. Mid-way through the quarter as the Swans surged into attack, Reid floated in front of a pack to take a strong contested mark.

The agile Reid, with clean hands, leapt, controlled the ball, and then went back to kick the goal to give his team a 26-point lead.