C’mon dominators
A RED-HAIRED boy was born in Leongatha on January 23, 1987. Jarryd Roughead.
Seven days later, an indigenous boy was born in Perth. Lance Franklin.
They grew up on opposite sides of our footy-loving nation.
Both loved playing footy and both got drafted to Hawthorn in 2004.
Of the top 20 players in that draft, only six remain on AFL lists. All, except Roughead, have changed clubs.
But these two are the standouts.
Comparing Franklin and Roughead isn’t fair on either.
It’s best to look at the similarities in their football journeys.
They are great mates. The best.
Together, they’ve celebrated premiership wins with Hawthorn before Franklin shifted to Sydney, and Roughie had some more September glory without him.
Individually they have overcome serious medical issues.
Franklin took time out for mental health, Roughead for skin cancer treatment.
The two are huge presences on the footy field and both a joy to watch.
Seeing Franklin destroy the Eagles defence in Round 1 was spectacular.
He’s already bagged 12 goals this year.
Roughead was match winning on Monday.
His forward line mark in the final minutes was crucial.
He missed the goal but got the behind putting his team in front with a minute to go.
Leadership and strength. Both players have it and it brings the best out of teammates.
How would their on-field relationship work if Franklin didn’t leave the Hawks?
Would Roughie run through the middle more, or would they have become a twin attack with a might never seen before?
For some, though, being apart brings the best out in them.
That’s not to say that together they were terrible, but a bit of extra room in the forward line has been a blessing for them.
Franklin is the best forward over 190.5cm and Roughie is the best captain over 190.5cm.
The two teams will feature again in the finals and their clash in Round 8 will be an epic encounter at the MCG.
We’ve been so lucky to have these two powerful figures in the game at the same time.
I can see them both playing on for another three years.
Our game will keep having electric players like these two, but to have them both in elite form, 14 seasons into their careers is fantastic.