Sexton says players have to prove their worth
SUNS utility Alex Sexton says Gold Coast’s weekly fortunes rest with their middle-tier players who have to prove they deserve to play in the AFL.
Sexton pulled no punches in his assessment of the Suns’ abysmal 17.16 (118) to 7.9 (51) loss to the Sydney Swans on Saturday at the SCG that has made it nearly impossible for the club to make the finals.
Coach Rodney Eade said the loss would be a learning curve for Gold Coast’s youngest players while it put other experienced players in a state of flux as the club questions whether they are worth persisting with.
Sexton said it was those four to six-year players, including himself, that needed to stand up and prove they could do the job at the top level.
“It’s not just up to the leaders or the experienced blokes in the team,” he said.
“It’s the next level of leaders that need to step up and play consistently because that’s the difference between us playing really well and losing games is that middle section of players.
“I’ve been a part of that group coming through. We have been at the club for about five years so trying to find consistency in your form is definitely important.
“The players that have been (at the Suns) for a while have to start showing something and showing why you’re at the footy club and proving that you deserve to be in the team.
“We do have a strong list and when we are all fit and healthy and playing consistently we are very good team.”
Gary Ablett (hamstring), Pearce Hanley (hamstring) and Kade Kolodjashnij (concussion) could all be in line to return for the Suns for the Round 17 game against Collingwood at Metricon Stadium on Saturday.
Michael Rischitelli may also play his first AFL game of the year after overcome a serious knee injury sustained in Round 16 last year against Brisbane.
Collingwood are one win behind Gold Coast in 15th place on the ladder and have lost their past four games.