The promising youngster found himself rubbing shoulders with the Brownlow Medallist during the final quarter of the NEAFL side’s 32-point loss to the Brisbane Lions reserves, and conceded in he was in awe at the prospect of going into battle against a player of Blacks stature.
“I used to grow up watching Blacky, so when I went down forward and saw who my opponent was I definitely knew I couldn’t make too many mistakes,” laughed Boston.
While the exciting 18-year-old started strong against the 2003 Norm Smith Medallist, Boston conceded Black had got the better of him and taught him a number of valuable lessons.
When asked what stood out most from the 34-year-old veteran, Boston said it was Black’s ability to push away from his man and read the play that had surprised him.
“He’s just an exceptional talent, he knows where his teammate is and just seems to be able to get the ball out from the stoppage and where he wants it to go,” said Boston.
“I certainly was able to take away a few handy tricks though.”
Gold Coast SUNS reserve coach Shaun Hart, who played alongside Black during the Lion’s premiership era (2001-03), said the Boston’s experience would great aid in his professional development towards playing AFL football.
“Blacky has always been a star of the game and there’s no doubt some of the boys, including Bozzo (Boston), will have walked away from yesterday’s game as better players from the experience,” said Hart.
“I thought Andrew really held his head high against Blacky, and didn’t shy away from the battle – so that was definitely really pleasing to see.”
