Fagan’s big praise for Mayes

BRISBANE Lions coach Chris Fagan has challenged Sam Mayes to build on a fine performance against Fremantle and go on to be one of the elite half-backs in the AFL.

Fagan singled out the South Australian’s assured performance after his side’s 57-point victory over the Dockers at the Gabba on Saturday.

Mayes has played 85 games for the Lions, but for a long time his displays did not suggest he was value for his selection at No. 8 in the 2012 AFL draft. Fagan has been happy with Mayes’ contribution this season and feels along with Daniel Rich the Lions now possess an impressive half-back line.

“Sammy Mayes has been really consistent all year but [against Fremantle] took his game to another level,” Fagan said.

“He had 29 touches at 83 per cent effectiveness — a lot of metres gained, good composure and competed well where he needed to compete.

“He’s got the capacity to be one of the really good half-backs in the AFL if he sticks at it.

“Murray Davis, our backline coach, has done a really good job encouraging his development, along with Daniel Rich.”

Fagan also was impressed with the performance of small forward Lewis Taylor, although pointed out his stat sheet should have been even more impressive.

“He should have kicked five, he hit an underground kick — I’ll have to have a word with him about that, but his other stuff was great,” Fagan said. “He ended up with 20 touches, a tackle and 12 score involvements, scoring four himself — that’s a good night’s work from a small forward. It’s probably the best game he’s played in a long time.”