CRAFTY forward Jacob Gillbee and his five-goal exhibition against the Brisbane Lions did little to hamper his chances for a senior recall, as the speedy Gold Coaster eyes a return to the AFL competition.
“Certainly kicking five goals against the Lions did him no harm in pushing for a call-up,” GC SUNS development coach Andrew Johnston told goldcoastfc.com.au on Monday.
20-year-old Gillbee was a major scoring contributor after the half-time break, rallying his teammates together as the NEAFL SUNS managed to reduce ten goal half time deficit to 28-points before the final siren sounded at Coorparoo Oval.
Johnston credited Gillbee’s unrelenting defensive pressure around the forward-half, and his ability to keep up the fight after the side’s second quarter fade-out.
“He had a couple of really good turnovers from the forward-half and ended up getting on the end of them as well which was encouraging,” he said.
“He started really well and probably like the rest of our side dropped off in the second period, but after that he maintained his defensive mentality and was able to reap the rewards for his efforts.”
The Tasmanian young gun has managed three AFL appearances since his arrival as part of the club’s inaugural 2010 draft class, and finished his 2012 campaign strongly after collecting 14 possessions and a goal in the team’s Round 23 clash against Adelaide last year.
But with stronger competition for spots this year and a vast depth of small-forwards and midfielders supported across the playing list, Gillbee has been unable to earn another crack at the big time.
However, with goal-sneaks Brandon Matera and Jesse Lonergan having spent time out of the top 22 with key injuries, Johnston believes the lively small-forward may get an opportunity at the top grade.
“With Brandon Matera going down it certainly gives those other small-forwards an opportunity to play senior footy,” Johnston said.
“If he continues to play consistent footy, and continually embraces the role given to him by Shaun Hart and the reserves coaching staff, there’s no reason why he can’t put himself in a position for another chance in the seniors.”
