Dermott Brereton has suggested Gary Rohan might not have the forward intellect to become a big game player but believes the talented Cat still has the attributes to succeed in the game.
Rohan again failed to respond to critics who say he struggles in the big games, recording just one disposal in Geelong’s huge Preliminary Final loss to Melbourne on Friday night before being subbed out with a hamstring injury.
Regarded as a high-impact player, the 30-year old averages over a goal a game and two inside 50s throughout 2021, but his inconsistency has cruelled the Cats at times, including on Friday.
Brereton believes he has the reason why Rohan can’t bring his best during finals football, saying he must struggle to alter his mindset when needed.
“When you’re playing your game and it’s working, the ball comes down into the forward line on your terms. But if it’s changed and the opposition is putting that much pressure on and it’s not coming down on your terms, you’ve got to work out how to get on the end of it, how to win that ball,” Brereton told SEN’s Bob and Andy.
“That not only requires that talent and ability, but it also requires you altering your mindset on where the ball is dropping.
“Unfortunately, Gary, I don’t think has the ability to work out the worst-case scenario.
“Gary Rohan, in footy intellect as a forward, I’d put it around three or four out of 10.”
However, it may not mean the end of the former Swan’s career, as Brereton believes Rohan’s talents mean he is still capable at AFL level.
“He’s a seriously talented player, he’s got a lot of good weaponry,” he said.
“He’s seriously quick for a bloke who’s 6’3” who can mark over his head, he’s a seriously good and accurate shot.”
Bob Murphy floated the possibility that Chris Scott could move Rohan further up the ground, which Brereton saw as a possibility.
“He was recruited as a large forward/ midfielder,” he said.
“The most damaging Gary looked at Sydney was when he was played on a half forward flank, there was a lot of space behind him, and the ball got kicked over his head.”
The Herald Sun has reported Rohan will be given a one-year contract extension at the Cats, despite his quiet finals performance.