While players have been accoladed around him, SUNS forward-turned-midfielder Darcy Macpherson is quietly compiling a career-best season.
Macpherson has been promoted into the midfield more often than ever this year, and is reaping the benefits by averaging 19 disposals, four marks and close to seven tackles per game.
Speaking to SUNS Media, the 21-year-old says his work off the field has set him up for success this year.
“During the week with my preparation, I’ve got a few little routines that I’m doing at the moment,” he said.
“I’m just ticking those things off during the week and it’s giving me the best chance to play football and adhere to the structures as well.
“I’ve been putting in a lot of work with the midfield boys and Josh Francou, the midfield coach.
“I’ve been working closely with him and getting to know all the nitty gritty stuff in the midfield and yeah I’m loving it.”
The diminutive midfielder has played every match so far this season, but some of his other teammates haven’t been so lucky.
Touk Miller continues to manage a heel injury, Brayden Fiorini missed a week with knee soreness, while Jack Bowes will be out for an extended period after injuring his quad on the weekend.
Macpherson said the ability for other players to come in and cover the absences in the midfield has been a positive for the team.
“It’s what we want as a football club, a bit of versatility.
“It’s disappointing with those boys going down but it opens the door for a few others.
“Hopefully they can showcase what they can do in the midfield as well and just fill in for a soldier.”
Macpherson said the team were still as determined as ever to secure the next win.
“We’re doing a lot of good things away from games and during the week we’ve got a lot of good habits in place now and at training it’s getting to a really good standard,” he said.
“Hopefully not far around the corner we’ll get a W.
“This week against North we’re looking for a really good opportunity to put to bed last week and really respond this week with a good four quarter game.
“It’s going to be a good clash against North and hopefully we can get the chocolates.”
The match kicks off at 4:35pm this Saturday at Metricon Stadium
