Footy comes before young family for Rich
DANIEL Rich will put football before a growing family to remain a key part of Brisbane’s AFL premiership push.
The Lions star and wife Lauren are expecting their second child, and already have a young son: Xander.
But Rich is prepared to leave them behind in Brisbane as the Lions set themselves for an extended period interstate — following their Gabba clash with Port Adelaide on Saturday night — to ensure the season continues despite enforced border and travel restrictions in the fight against COVID-19.
“Thank goodness for FaceTime,” 30-year-old Rich said.
“Obviously I’d prefer to be with my family but at the same time my family’s supportive either way … it’s important that we keep the season rolling.
“Everyone’s got their own situation. There are (players from) teams and clubs (in hubs) at the moment that have young families, and they’re making do.
“As players and as a footy club you’ve got to be adaptable, especially in the circumstances we’re facing at the moment.
“It’s all part of clubs contributing to keep the season going and as a player you’re supportive of that.”
Despite the prospect of weeks away from home, Rich’s sole focus is extending the Lions’ winning streak to four matches by beating the top-oftable Power on Saturday night.
“I haven’t looked too far ahead. Things are so fluid with what’s happening,” he said. “As a player you live in the now. All we’re focusing on is the Port Adelaide game.”
The Power are the only undefeated team in the competition and have revelled in their hub on the Gold Coast.
Former Suns strongman Charlie Dixon is in good form for Port, having kicked six goals in the Power’s 48-point win over West Coast at Metricon Stadium on Saturday.
“We watched a fair bit of their game and he played super,” Rich said. “He’ll be a tough challenge, but he’s one of many in their team who’s playing really well.
“They’ve got a lot of dangerous forwards and midfielders … they’re well spread across the board.”
The Lions will have to conquer Port without captain Dayne Zorko, who will miss at least two matches with a strained calf.