Four Roos guns tipped for breakout years

Four of the Maroochydore Roos best are tipped to have breakout seasons as the club enters the QAFL for the first time in its history

Maroochydore Roos Jacob Simpson is one tipped for a breakout season. Photo Warren Lynam

AUSSIE RULES: Andrew Cadzow and the Maroochydore Roos will take whatever footy they can get this year with one eye already fixed upon the 2021 season.

When QAFL returns in mid-July, the season is expected to be shortened to a one-round and three-week finals series to cater for summer sport in September.

Given 2020 will likely be a season with an asterisk attached, it could mean a less-burdened foray into QAFL footy for the young Roos.

“A month ago we were preparing for no footy, it looked dark. We are just looking forward to playing, even if it’s for 10 weeks,” Cadzow said.

“The shorter season would allow our young group to learn from their mistakes and get games under their belt.

“That way we can enter next pre-season raring to go.”

Daniel Fleming will prove invaluable for the Roos provided he is allowed to play by contracted-club Redlands.

Cadzow is expecting big things from NEAFL-contracted players Lochie Laing, Jackson Bury and Dan Fleming, should they be available for the Roos.

He is also tipping the likes of Jacob Simpson, Jake Warren, Sam Butler and Mitch Bond to have breakout years.

“Simpson has probably been the best ruckman below state level. He has been dominant for us ever since he joined the club,” he said.

“Warren, a small forward, was tremendous in 2018, second in our best and fairest, and is keen to step it up again.

“Butler is only 19 and new to senior footy but will be a key player in our backline. He’s very good.

“Bond is a bit injury prone but has come a long way in the past 12 months, he will star.”

Roos have picked up three key players in Jesse Malthouse, Josh Govan and Lachie Robinson who are set to be “exciting” additions.