Ruck return could be boost for Blitz

VERSATILE big man Mark Blicavs, pictured, says a return to the ruck might be the change that sees him return to his career-best form.

The 2015 Carji Greeves medallist admitted he didn’t have the impact he would have hoped for last year, but said a new role could help him find his best again.

“I’d probably like to play a bit more ruck this year and I think a little bit more on the wing as well, so just a bit more transition focus and see if I can’t help in the air a bit more,” Blicavs said.

“We had a few new players come in (last year) — Zac Smith played a bit more ruck, 2015 I played more ruck and we had injuries, so Zac Smith and Rhys Stanley all healthy was fantastic.

“(But) it didn’t allow me to play as much ruck as I’d like and I probably adapted to more midfield and wing time, so I’m hoping to just lock down and improve on those roles.”

But his impact in the air will be reduced after the AFL introduced a ban on the third man up. Blicavs said the rule might be a blessing in disguise.

“I’ve done a bit of training, obviously not being able to go third-up, and it’s been fine,” he said.

“It has probably allowed me to concentrate more on playing the one role, whether that’s wing or inside mid, and really try to lock down that rather than go third-up and try and release my teammates.

“I think I’ll have a lapse during the season where I just see the ball and hit it and give away a free kick, but I’ll hold off as long as possible.” But Blicavs said it was too early to call how the rule might change the game.

“I didn’t notice it too much on Friday,” he said.

“(Congestion) is a tactic that could be employed in closer games (or) five minutes, 10 minutes to go in quarters, so that might affect it when that scenario happens. I think it was a big advantage at times last year, but every team is going to have to adapt.

“It’s probably a question to ask in four or five weeks when we see a few trends and patterns.” Knee tendinitis has troubled the 90-game utility this preseason, but Blicavs said he’s found a way to manage the niggle.

“There’s not too much in terms of surgery or medication that can really help, you’ve just got to keep working and keep battling,” he said.

“So far with the sessions and Friday’s game too, I’ve felt really comfy out there and didn’t notice it at all.

“I’m past the point where it’s really affecting me, so I’m hoping to play some consistent football this year.’’