Further media speculation today, apparently fuelled by conversations at a weekend buck's party, would suggest that Essendon Captain Matthew Lloyd will hang up the boots. Lloyd's realistic options are pretty limited.
Since returning from tearing the hamstring off the bone, Lloyd's impact on the game has been minimal. Had he not been the club Captain, and had he not been the club's all-time leading goal kicker, it's not hard to imagine that he would have been sidelined a year or two ago. He hasn't displayed the explosive pace required to play at full forward, and over his career has relied more than most full forwards on his leading. Body-on-body contested marking has never been a particular feature of his game, although he is clearly quite strong.
Were Lloyd interested in entertaining offers from other clubs, and it seems he would take a good deal of convincing, it's hard to see which club might benefit and even harder to imagine they'd risk a position on an already tight list for someone of Lloyd's age and medical history. For the Bombers, the future is more important than some sort of grand round farewell for a fading favourite son.
It seems like there will be a whiff of sour grapes about this scenario, no matter what happens, and that is sad. Nevertheless, the team is more important than one player, especially one well past his prime. If Lloyd were to announce his retirement before the Crichton Medal presentation, there would be a standing ovation second only to James Hird's waiting for him.
Update: Lloyd's column in this weekend's Sunday Age effectively puts to bed the notion that Lloyd is consumed by himself. His is clearly an issue of desire and commitment. There can be no doubt that elite AFL in the 21st century requires even more mental application than ever before in the game's history. Lloyd is right to take the time to make sure he has the mental and physical wherewithall to participate in another season. Limited list numbers, salary cap and the club's future don't allow the luxury of carrying a favoured son for sentimental reasons.
Tuesday, September 15, 2009
Lloyd's options limited
Since returning from tearing the hamstring off the bone, Lloyd's impact on the game has been minimal. Had he not been the club Captain, and had he not been the club's all-time leading goal kicker, it's not hard to imagine that he would have been sidelined a year or two ago. He hasn't displayed the explosive pace required to play at full forward, and over his career has relied more than most full forwards on his leading. Body-on-body contested marking has never been a particular feature of his game, although he is clearly quite strong.
Were Lloyd interested in entertaining offers from other clubs, and it seems he would take a good deal of convincing, it's hard to see which club might benefit and even harder to imagine they'd risk a position on an already tight list for someone of Lloyd's age and medical history. For the Bombers, the future is more important than some sort of grand round farewell for a fading favourite son.
It seems like there will be a whiff of sour grapes about this scenario, no matter what happens, and that is sad. Nevertheless, the team is more important than one player, especially one well past his prime. If Lloyd were to announce his retirement before the Crichton Medal presentation, there would be a standing ovation second only to James Hird's waiting for him.
Update: Lloyd's column in this weekend's Sunday Age effectively puts to bed the notion that Lloyd is consumed by himself. His is clearly an issue of desire and commitment. There can be no doubt that elite AFL in the 21st century requires even more mental application than ever before in the game's history. Lloyd is right to take the time to make sure he has the mental and physical wherewithall to participate in another season. Limited list numbers, salary cap and the club's future don't allow the luxury of carrying a favoured son for sentimental reasons.
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4 comments:
just wondering if Lloyd's lack of success over the past two years can be put down to the unpredictability of the young bomber midfield? hard to time your leads when guys like lovett and winderlich love to run and bounce.
i am a dogs supporter and i think he would be a huge asset in the goalsquare for us
I think you have a point, Dean, but Knights is focussed on building the next forward line and so Lloyd hasn't spent time in his customary role. Were he likely to be a long-term part of that next forward line, I don't think there's any doubt that he'd be playing from the goal square.
Frankly, given a choice between Hall with his anger management issues and Lloyd, I'd choose Hall. I think he's a more versatile, more adaptable player and more likely to produce the required results.
really?? that's interesting, personally i would much rather Lloyd and feel he would fit in seemlessly whereas Hall would be a bit of a distraction. Would not like to see him play on for the Dons next year, the time has come for them to continue building a new forward line.
If the Akermanis experience shows anything, it's the Bulldogs' capacity to rein in, effectively manage, and successfully integrate "eccentric" personalities.
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