Track Watch: All the latest training notes and news from the Crows
After a controlled first week, Sid Draper was unleashed during the Crows’ match simulation – and everyone was left stunned. Plus, new roles and the untried young gun making his case.
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Prized recruit Sid Draper was in the thick of the action early during the Crows’ match simulation on Monday.
The No. 4 draft pick was unleashed at training after a controlled first week at West Lakes, thrown into the midfield with impressive results.
While it was not a ‘best against the rest’ split of the squad, Draper was in the stronger side.
He first kicked a goal that had his teammates getting around him in numbers, but it was what he did minutes later which really impressed.
Already standing out with his bright pink boots, Draper produced a tremendous chase down tackle to wrap up Sam Berry.
It showed that there was plenty of strength to go with his silk and speed, and it is evident Crows players are already impressed by the draftee.
It was part of what was a physical, and at times heated, training session for the Crows.
There was a small flashpoint when Irishman Mark Keane flattened Luke Nankervis in their small-sided game.
Berry did not take to this kindly, engaging in some push and shove with Keane and the two continued to have words behind the play.
During a break Crows talisman Taylor Walker also appeared to make it clear to Keane that he wasn’t impressed with the collision, with the key defender biting back.
But that was as far as it went, with it just one of a number of hard hits or tackles at West Lakes.
During match simulation the Crows gave a small hint as to where some of their players might play this year.
New recruit James Peatling was in the midfield, Melbourne premiership player Alex Neal-Bullen started forward, Brayden Cook played deep in attack while Dan Curtin continued to play as a forward.
Riley Thilthorpe took part in training after nursing a sore back last week.
PLAYERS WHO IMPRESSED
OSCAR RYAN: There aren’t too many players on the Crows list who are yet to play an AFL game. Draper’s first should come soon but don’t be surprised if Ryan isn’t too far behind him. At their season launch earlier this year, Nicks said Ryan reminded him of the great Gavin Wanganeen. It’s high praise but obviously the Crows rate him. The running defender has returned in good shape and impressed with his tank and kicking on Monday.
ISAAC CUMMING: If the Crows can keep him fit then Cumming could have a big impact on their ball movement. While conditions weren’t great at West Lakes on Monday – hot and windy – Cumming was still clean with his ball movement and looks like he can be a weapon down back for the Crows.
DAN CURTIN: Continued to be used as a forward and continued to show some impressive signs. The most impressive on Monday might have been when he gave it to Keane as things got heated. On the surface Curtin does seem somewhat reserved so the Crows would be thrilled to see some fire in the West Australian’s belly.
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