Simpson regains form for VFL victory

SAM Simpson says he is enjoying his new role as a high half-forward, having added 7kg to his light frame over the off-season.

Simpson had a seamless preseason until fluid in his knee became a cause for concern in February, setting back his 2018 campaign.

But three games in, the smart and versatile mid-sized player has regained the form that earned him five AFL games in his debut season last year.

Simpson collected 28 touches, seven marks, five tackles and a goal in Saturday’s VFL win — his five inside-50s highlighting his ball use forward of centre.

“Every week you get a bit more of a blowout, so I felt good today,” he said post-match. “I just want to keep improving on my craft and get better each week.

“I got through pre-season and was feeling quite good and got around to the practice matches and had some fluid hanging around in my knee, which wouldn’t go away.

“It probably took a lot longer than the physios expected as well, so it was quite frustrating knowing that one day you could wake up and be better.”

But the 19-year-old ex-Geelong Falcon said his body was feeling good as he learns to adapt to playing as a high half-forward.

“Just keep improving on my craft, playing that forward role well, holding my lanes and just being smart with the footy,” Simpson said of his goals for 2018. “I’ve been playing forward, wing, mid this year, so trying to be versatile in my role and play where needed, so a little bit different but I’m enjoying it. It’s just about playing your role until then and if it (an AFL call-up) happens, it happens. There’s hope there that there are spots, but we want healthy competition within the club.”