Barrybran
Premium Platinum
- Jun 18, 2016
- 54,831
- 104,326
- AFL Club
- West Coast
- Other Teams
- Perth Scorchers
- Thread starter
- #26
Round 1
The opening round threw up some good performances by this seasons rookie crop. Beandip led the way offensively with 19 disposals, six marks and four goals, The Kingslayer controlled the ruck with 16 hitouts and 20 disposals, and Ned Ryerson was excellent for the Gumbies with 25 disposals and six marks. An excellent defensive performance, however, was what separated this week's nominee, Dr Mantis Taboggan, from his peers.
Playing on a half forward flank, Dr Mantis Taboggan faced off against the reigning Mobbs Medalist and premiership rover, Nunez - a tough ask for anyone's first game. Offensively, Dr Mantis Taboggan picked up a handy 12 disposals and six marks however it was on the defensive side of the ball that he really shined. Averaging 22 disposals per game in season 27, Dr Mantis Taboggan kept Nunez to just five touches for the entire day.
I spoked to Dr Mantis Taboggan and his captain, AceAndy, to get their thoughts on the rookie's debut.
Dr Mantis Taboggan
BB: Excellent first outing mate! How did you wind up in Sweet FA and, more specifically, the Dragons?
DMT: I had seen a number of "mysterious" SFA posts around and it seemed too involved really... there is a bit of history that needs to be taken into account and it seemed a bout overwhelming to be honest. Then I changed jobs and found myself with a lot more time to get involved. There was a particularly funny post I saw (can't remember exactly) and I thought that looks like fun. So i gave it a crack, still not knowing what it was all about.
Initially, I was open to any team, given my inexperience, but the pitch from the Dragons was too good to pass on. The team has been great, and look forward to having some real success on the Footy field.
BB: It's early days but how are you enjoying yourself? What do you make of the sim?
DMT: Love it! I really enjoying the banter before the games and the team environment. The pressure in the first game against the Swamp Rats was intense, it seemed every time I had the ball they were on me in no time and i was getting smashed. I look forward to building into some form.
BB: How would you describe your style as a qooty player?
DMT: I really just want to play my role in the team. As a first year player I'm just trying to get some consistency and learn of the more senior guys. Hopefully in time, I can bring enough form and start to lock down a midfield role.
BB: What can we look forward to from yourself and the Dragons in S28?
DMT: I'd say sparse but quality banter is a trademark I want to bring to S28.
BB: Thanks for joining me and good luck for the rest of the season.
AceAndy
BB: Ace, the Dragons have picked up where they've left off scoring the round 1 Rising Stars nomination. How do you do it mate?
AA: The Dragons pride themselves on being the perfect environment for young rookies to take their Qooty skills to the elite level. The ‘all you can eat’ pass at the Dragon Island Sizzler may also have helped.
I think this years crop of Dr Mantis Taboggan, The Kingslayer and Davo-27 maybe even better than last years season 27 rookies of Cold Sober , Bluella and that other annoying fellow.
BB: How's DMT fitting in around the club? What do you hope to see from him as the season unfolds?
AA: The Doctor has been a breath of fresh air around the club and has been a great source of
BB: Dr Mantis Taboggan is a solid name for a qooty player. How much do you think a player's name contributes to their success on and off the field?
AA: An absolutely cracking name and I know the Doctor has already built up a considerable reputation based on what maybe the best and most recognisable username in the SFA. As soon as Hatchy spotted the Doctor hanging around the SFA he made him an offer he couldn’t refuse. Dr Mantis Taboggan has already made the Half Forward Flank position his own and I expect him to be in the goals in the coming weeks.
BB: Thanks for your time mate. I'm sure I'll be talking to you again a couple more times throughout the season.
