Connor Byrne has been named as the Post Office Hotel’s Lion of the Round, after his exciting and effective defence work in Sunday’s loss to Sandringham.
Picking up 22 disposals and 8 clearances in only his fourth game of VFL football, Byrne stood out despite not being able to get the win.
“I had a pretty defensive role on a good player, which was a good learning experience.” Byrne said.
“There was a real buzz and aggression in the way the boys played on the weekend, however it wasn’t enough to get us over the line.” he continued.
Having played the last three seasons of his underage football in three different cities (Albury, Ballarat and Sydney), the young footballer joins Coburg this year hoping to become a more consistent player.
“Consistency is one (focus), as well as continually learning and improving my overall game.” Byrne said.
“(VFL) is a fair step-up from the footy I played last year.”
Whilst he has found his transition to the club fairly easy, Byrne also hopes to secure his spot in the Senior side.
“There have been a lot of new players so that’s definitely helped me settle into this great club, however settling into the Senior team is still something I’m working on.” he said.
“I’m still getting pretty nervous every Thursday, but that isn’t a bad thing at times!”
Looking to record their first win of the season after a rough start, Byrne believes one way to go about it is to play with the same intensity.
“I think if we bring that intensity from the weekend, clean up some basics that are letting us down, and keep working on certain situations, then we will give ourselves every chance,” he said.
“I know I’m not a good loser, and I think all the boys are very hungry for the win.”
Head Senior Coach Peter German was also very impressed with the way Byrne played.
“He has set high standards since joining Coburg during the preseason,” German said.
“His work rate and discipline was on show on Sunday, as he stuck to his role and responsibilities in the midfield.” The Head Senior Coach continued.
In the Development Side, Head Coach Paul ‘PK’ Kennedy named Cameron McRorie as Lion of the Round.
Managing 19 disposals, one goal, and six inside-50s, McRorie was exciting to watch and will surely be one to keep our eyes on as the season progresses.
Be at Piranha Park from 9:30am to catch the Development Side take on Box Hill, followed by the Seniors pushing for their first win against Essendon at 1pm.
Hear the Lions Roar!
This piece is sponsored by the Post Office Hotel, 229 – 231 Sydney Rd, Coburg. For more information please head to http://www.thepostofficehotel.com.au/.
