Ryan Harwood is doing everything in his power to secure a Senior footy berth before season’s end.
Harwood has not played Senior football since the Lions’ Round 13 loss to GWS. The week after, the
The week after, the 25-year-old suffered an injury at training, where his foot split open.
He was sidelined for five weeks, before returning to the NEAFL last weekend.
“I want to get in as soon as I can. I was playing Senior footy before I got injured. I know I’ve got to play a couple of games to get myself ready to go,” Harwood said.
Harwood's patience has been tested in the past few weeks as he
“It was in a weird spot and I couldn’t really put weight
The Lions NEAFL side's Round 17 win over Redland was Harwood’s first game back and he didn’t waste any time. Harwood sat on the bench for the first quarter, but once he was on, his impact was immediate. He contributed four goals, 19 disposals and nine marks but says he can do more.
“I was a bit lazy at times. Probably didn’t have the run in my legs,” Harwood said.
His coach Mitch Hahn agrees: “He needs to build into a bit of match fitness.”
Hahn believes his young star is a chance for a senior promotion before season’s end.
“He’s certainly in our mix to play Senior footy in the next few weeks and the last couple of rounds and I’m sure he’ll want that for his season, to finish off strong,” Hahn said.
This weekend against Canberra, Harwood is expected to play across the four quarters.
“The more game time I can get in the NEAFL where I’m playing, the better,” Harwood said.
The Lions will aim for their ninth straight win on Saturday afternoon against the Canberra Demons.
The Demons may sit sixth on the ladder but have plenty to play for.
“They’re still eligible to play finals. They’re not out of the race,” Harwood said.
The Brisbane Lions NEAFL side meet the Canberra Demons on Saturday at midday at UNSW Canberra Oval.
