Andrews to up the ante
HARRIS Andrews admits his form must improve if he’s to live up to his status as the leader of Brisbane’s defence.
Despite the Lions sitting on top of the AFL ladder ahead of Thursday night’s MCG blockbuster against premiers Melbourne, Andrews’ performances have been scrutinised and often criticised in recent weeks.
“I’d be remiss if I said that I didn’t hear any of the discussion that goes on about my form, but at the same time, I want to hold myself to high standards,” Andrews said ahead of what will be his 150th AFL appearance.
“It’s important to not get caught up in the discussion that happens outside of the four walls, but ... it’s a great opportunity to go out and play my best footy. There have been times when I’ve been down a little bit.
“I need to be better, and my teammates are extremely reliant on me to be at my best when we’re playing our best.”
Andrews said a longerthan-usual break because of Brisbane’s bye last weekend had given him plenty of time to ponder what needs improving in his game.
“It’s been a great little reflection period ... to reflect on the first half of the year for what worked for me, (and) what hasn’t worked for me, and I’m just excited about the second half of the year,” he said.
“An opportunity to play on (Melbourne’s) Ben Brown, who is a really quality key forward, is a great starting point in the second half of the year.
“I know what I need to do to perform well for my teammates and for the team, and I’ll just focus on that.”
Andrews said the Lions needed to improve collectively as a defensive unit to have a shot at winning the club’s first premiership since 2003.
“Certainly as a team we’ve probably been down in the sense that our team defence has probably struggled at times and obviously as defenders you’re banking on that a little bit,” he said.
“I see the motivation every day, coming into the club, seeing my teammates want to get better. We’ve made finals the last three years, (but) haven’t made it to the big dance – that’s the motivation that I need.”
Andrews is also motivated to celebrate his milestone match and rare game at the MCG with a win over the Demons, who have lost three in a row after starting the season with 10 successive wins.
“I’m really proud of the (150-game) achievement. It feels like it’s absolutely flown by,” he said. “I’m very thankful for the club and everyone that has been a part of my journey.”
He said the Demons would have a “point to prove”.
“You set yourself for their best. We’re certainly aware of just how good they are,” he said.