Jaspa Fletcher’s pleasure at being the AFL’s newest Rising Star nominee has been tempered by his “devastation” for fellow father-son draft choice Will Ashcroft, whose season-ending knee harm has rocked the Brisbane Lions.
It was solely final week that Ashcroft expressed his pleasure about Fletcher’s latest elevation to the Lions’ AFL aspect after spectacular type in Brisbane’s VFL crew following a pre-season that was compromised by a again harm.
The pair aren’t solely teammates however housemates as effectively and symbolize the Lions’ long-term future.
But their on-field partnership is on maintain, with Ashcroft – who had been very good in his debut AFL marketing campaign – going through as much as a 12 months on the sidelines after rupturing the anterior cruciate ligament in Brisbane’s 11-point weekend win over Geelong.
In distinction, it was a sport to recollect for Fletcher, whose efficiency led to him becoming a member of Ashcroft as a contender to win this 12 months’s Rising Star award.
“It’s always nice … but to be honest, I was more focused on just getting a win after a tough loss (to Melbourne the week before),” the 19-year-old wingman stated.
“To beat the reigning premiers in front of a home crowd is always pretty special.”
However, it was a bittersweet day for Fletcher because of Ashcroft’s misfortune.
“He’s quite devastated and I’m devastated for him,” Fletcher stated.
“We’ll just try and get around him as much as possible. We’ll act as long as we can around the house and try to take his mind off. It’s definitely going to help him.
“We’ve got good rehab staff here, so I’m sure he’ll be back better than ever and do some special things when he gets back.”
In the meantime, the third-placed Lions will push on with out Ashcroft, with Fletcher – the son of membership stalwart Adrian Fletcher – eager to proceed his personal good type in Saturday’s QClash in opposition to the Gold Coast Suns at Heritage Bank Stadium.
“I’m just focused on playing my role, holding my spot in the team and getting the win,” he stated.
Fletcher’s type has additionally secured him a brand new contract extension, with the previous Brisbane State High School pupil to put on Lions colors till a minimum of the top of 2026.
“Dad’s played here, and to pull on that jumper that he’s pulled on is really special, and I’m looking forward to that next few years,” Fletcher stated.
“This is where this is where I want to be. We have a great bunch of boys at the club, and I am really looking forward to seeing how far we can go.”
The Lions educated at Springfield on Tuesday, with attacking weapon Zac Bailey, who missed the win over the Cats because of a calf harm, restricted to mild duties.
Originally revealed as Jaspa Fletcher earns new Lions deal as he sympathises with sidelined fellow younger gun Will Ashcroft
Source: www.dailytelegraph.com.au
