Hawthorn premiership participant Xavier Ellis has put the warmth on Fremantle ahead Matt Taberner forward of what shapes as a career-defining yr for the Dockers spearhead.
Justin Longmuir’s aspect are seen as a lock for finals, however many consultants have questioned their ahead line and whether it is able to carrying them to a premiership.
Taberner, who turns 30 in June, looms as an essential piece of their construction, regardless of taking part in simply 13 video games final season for 23 targets – together with a seven-goal haul towards Essendon.
Ellis pointed to the truth that since 2016 he’s not performed greater than 16 video games in a season due to accidents as to why Taberner wanted an enormous 2023 season.
“I think clear as day now, Matty Taberner (is) under the pump,” Ellis advised The Hard Ball Gets Podcast.
“Nat Fyfe’s been moved to full forward for a reason. I think Matty Taberner the pressure is on. You’ve got Never Miss (Jye Amiss) coming through the ranks, and you’ve got (Josh) Treacy coming through the ranks as well.
“I don’t think it’s the time now to be going he’s our man if he’s not doing what he needs to be doing.
“I just feel as though this year Fremantle are in a position where they can’t muck around.”
Channel 7 sports activities presenter Ryan Daniels echoed Ellis’ ideas on Taberner, however mentioned he would get a crack early.
“If they’re going to win the flag, which they’re in that conversation, Taberner needs to play footy,” Daniels mentioned.
“It’s not so much the goals because he kicks them when he’s out there, he’s pretty good but he also just gives you a target.”
Ellis mentioned he was excited to see what newly appointed vice-captain Caleb Serong can do that season.
“I love Andy Brayshaw, but he’s a very outside player,” Ellis mentioned.
“Give me Caleb Serong, I want to see what he can do.”
Source: www.perthnow.com.au