Suns to get around injured star Barlow
MATT Rosa says Gold Coast will rally around injured leader Michael Barlow as the Suns begin the task of trying to fill the hole left by one of their most influential players.
Barlow underwent surgery yesterday on his left fibula that was broken when a Carlton player fell across his leg in the fourth quarter of Gold Coast’s 12.11 (83) to 11.7 (73) loss to the Blues in front of 11,936 at Metricon Stadium.
The former Docker broke the same leg in 2010 while playing for Fremantle and will miss the rest of the season. It’s a huge loss for Gold Coast who have been the major beneficiaries of Barlow’s move east.
The 29-year-old was brought into the Suns leadership group upon his arrival this year and his calm head, battle-hardened body and vocal presence on the field has been critical to Gold Coast’s fortunes.
Rosa said Barlow’s absence would be widely felt throughout the club.
“It’s devastating for Mick and we really feel for him,” Rosa said.
“It didn’t look good so we will wrap our arms around him and he’s an important leader for the footy club, he has been fantastic since he has come across from Fremantle.
“He has been another hard body which is probably what we lacked last year.
“His experience is invaluable, he is a great club man and a great team man. He brings a great energy to the group and I’m sure he will still bring that if he isn’t playing.”
Barlow’s injury came moments after a goal from teammate Jack Martin that put Gold Coast in front for the first time in the game.
Rosa said it may have had an affect on the players as Carlton kicked three straight goals following the break in play to seal their victory.
“It was a stop in play but we have to be better than that,” Rosa said.
“We did have the momentum before it and they kicked a couple late so we have got to make sure we are switched on for four quarters.”
Rosa said Gold Coast had the playing stocks to ensure they can continue to push for a spot in the finals.
“There have been a lot of guys knocking on the door,” Rosa said.
“We have a lot available in the twos who are playing well. It’s a case of one solder out, one solder in – that’s what we will have to do.
“But we will worry about that later on in the week. At the moment it’s just about getting around Mick.”
IT’S DEVASTATING FOR MICK AND WE REALLY FEEL FOR HIM ... MATT ROSA