Re: Post Game Passion: AFL 2019 Rd : Carlton vs. Western Bulldogs
Reply #168 –
I think Gibbons has been playing the same role all season. He just played slightly more in the middle on Sunday but essentially he's our starting small forward that helps out in the middle.
I agree. He spends a lot of time in the midfield, as do most small forwards now, and his midfield contribution has ramped up with each game.
I think it's crazy to suggest that he has been played out of position. While I am pleasantly surprised with his recent performances, he took a couple of games to adjust to AFL tempo and it would have been a disaster to throw him in at the midfield deep end. It's just another example of how the club is taking a long term approach and Gibbons will benefit from that.
I know it may not be the most reliable indicator but consider his disposal stats; 11, 16, 4 (against a very good midfield), 16, 21. If his development continues, he will be an important cog in our midfield for years to come.