Player Watch #34 Matthew Roberts

[Callipygian]

So impressive that Robbo has held his spot pretty much all year. I didn't really see him coming even though I knew he had had a sensational pre-season and looked like he meant business. We've found a way to weaponise his cool composure and penetrating kicking. It's striking to see Lloyd tossing him the ball at kick-in - massive vote of confidence from the coaches.

Now that the dust is settling after our last off-season it seems Robbo and JJ have survived (and thrived) - together with Cunningham and Fox (who some thought were vulnerable) - whereas things are a bit more clouded for Adams and Wicks. Things are decidedly overcast for the likes of Hamling and Ladhams - back up only. Early on in the season it was hard to tell which of those players would make seniors and which would have to make way. Wicks is out right now because of suspension but his form fell away a bit and Cleary's two full games applied a blowtorch. (I wouldn't be surprised if Wicks departs in the off-season after a difficult year. I hope he stays. If Wicks and Konstanty both go that leaves us with very limited depth in that position. Wicks' best is good - but he suffers with consistency and discipline.)

 

[JackHiscoxWasFast]

Come back well from mid season leg issue.

Team mates need to help him out with comms on Saturday. Been caught unsuspectingly holding the ball a few times - can’t afford costly turnovers.

 

[SwansProudly]

After slow start Swan from wine country matures nicely​

After slow start Swan from wine country matures nicely

Matt Roberts' first couple of seasons didn't see much AFL football, but he's now a part of Sydney's best 22

www.afl.com.au

 

[RilesMacca]

I reckon he's my favourite player, fantastic season that he's had.

 

[Kiama Chris]

I reckon he's my favourite player, fantastic season that he's had.

People talking about our midfield not winning clearances etc. Maybe Matt deserves another look there.

 

[BloodySwan]

People talking about our midfield not winning clearances etc. Maybe Matt deserves another look there.

He'll get into the midfield soon enough. Has the preseason to prove his worth there

 

[bedford]

People talking about our midfield not winning clearances etc. Maybe Matt deserves another look there.

Said it weeks ago

 

[caesar88]

 

[MightyBloods]

People talking about our midfield not winning clearances etc. Maybe Matt deserves another look there.

Yes. I'd give both Roberts & Fox midfield time, particularly at centre bounces. Stronger bodies.

 

[bedford]

Yes. I'd give both Roberts & Fox midfield time, particularly at centre bounces. Stronger bodies.

Fox lol

 

[Nool Carpenna]

Fox lol

What's funny about that?
Have you seen him in the middle for more than the odd ball-up here and there?

 

[caesar88]

Fox lol

I don't think it's that strange at all.

Fox used to play in the NEAFL and looked very good. Has all the right attributes. I raised the idea back in October of 2022:

Fox played in the mids back in the NEAFL for a long while and looked the goods. He did everything he's doing in the backline currently, just in stoppages. Has some good breakaway pace, is one of our fittest players, would add a bit of size and maturity to the midfield group (185cm, 84kg has him in Parker range). We've seen he can be composed under pressure and slick in traffic. Could play attacking or defensive, a la Mills.

Unfortunately I don't think it's something that will even be considered, because the midfield is for Horse's favourites only it seems.

 

[bedford]

What's funny about that?
Have you seen him in the middle for more than the odd ball-up here and there?

Nice to hear from you , he won't be in the middle

 

[MightyBloods]

Nice to hear from you , he won't be in the middle

And there is one of our problems, our coaching staff aren't creative enough.