Former Melbourne captain Garry Lyon says Jon Patton being dropped to the second level won’t hurt him, as the Greater Western Sydney forward searches for his best form.
Patton’s omission comes after a 16-disposal performance in the loss to Geelong last Friday night. The 24-year-old has kicked just four goals in seven games this season, as he has been splitting his playing time between the ruck and forward line.
According to Lyon, there is no shame in being dropped, as it will help Patton build some much-needed confidence.
“He had a stinker on Friday night against the Cats and I think it was building,” he told SEN Breakfast.
“I don’t think he has had a great season. It’s the way the modern game is being played.
“Tom Hawkins is almost the last of that kind of forward. The big guy who can’t put the pressure on, that can’t chase, can’t get up the ground and hit back.
“Jeremy Cameron can do that, so they’ve opted to go for him over Jon Patton at this stage.
“He has got a lot of ability and it won’t hurt him going back. Going back to the NEAFL doesn’t hurt you.
“I hope he goes back, takes 10-12 big clunkers and then comes back again.”
The Giants will look to bounce back tomorrow against West Coast at Spotless Stadium, and you can hear the game live on 1116 SEN from 1:00pm with Peter Donegan, Russell Barwick and Daisy Pearce.
WIN tickets to the 2018 Toyota AFL Grand Final and everything in GF week.
Correctly guess the total possessions in Round 8 of: Dylan Shiel (GWS), Jesse Hogan (MEL), Travis Boak (PA), Matt Crouch (ADE) & Ben Cunnington (NM). Eg.: 128
Enter below:
