Panthers utility Matthew Rankine to make 100th SANFL league appearance
SOUTH Adelaide utility Matthew Rankine will finally reach the 100-game milestone when the Panthers attempt to snap a three-game losing streak. WATCH THE LIVE CHAT
THE name Rankine is back in the spotlight in the SANFL this week, only it is South Adelaide’s Matthew grabbing the limelight when he makes his 100th league appearance in the clash against North Adelaide at Noarlunga Oval on Saturday.
After 24 games in three seasons with West Adelaide, followed by 75 with the Panthers, the versatile Rankine will finally achieve the century milestone.
“It has been a long journey, but I’ll finally get there,” Rankine said. “It means a lot to me and in the last couple of days I’ve thought about it, it is special.”
His younger brother, Bloods small forward Izak, has been in the football headlines in the past month for his stunning performances with the triumphant state under 18 side, earning himself All Australian honours and pushing his case for the No. 1 selection in the national draft.
“He is enjoying his football and that is the main thing,” Matt said. “He plays his best footy when he is enjoying it.
“In the last couple of weeks he has really enjoyed it and that has showed on the field. To see him put in the hard work off the field and being rewarded is great.”
Matt admits he lost motivation at the Bloods and he felt he needed a chance, thus his decision to take his game to Noarlunga Oval in 2014.
The enthusiasm for the game has returned and the Panthers have used him in a variety of positions.
“It is a big game against North,” he said. “We started the season well, but the last four or five weeks have not been the best.
“It has been frustrating at times and this week is massive for us to get some confidence back.”