Adelaide ruckman Lachlan McAndrew says unleashing his competitive side has been a pivotal part to his improvement as a footballer.
The 25-year-old says he relishes the opportunity to be locked in tough ruck battles every week, as he looks to outplay his opponent and give his teammates first look at the footy.
Speaking on the upcoming episode of The Crows Show, McAndrew delved into his approach to the position from a mindset point-of-view, and how he has adapted to the recent rule changes.
“For me, I really enjoy the one-on-one battle, I’m a competitive person when I switch it on and I just love that aspect of the position,” McAndrew said.
“It’s literally just you against your opponent throughout a game, you can negate your (opposing) ruck or work them the other way.
“It (the rules) definitely favour people who can jump at the ball, height definitely helps as well, but if you are able to jump and match the other ruckman’s intent you can usually get a good look at the ball.
“It was nice to have a good game against Darcy (Cameron), and then you look at the next week and I’ve got Tim English who’s in ripping form, so you can tell at AFL level there is no break in good opposition.”
McAndrew’s improvement was on show throughout his second pre-season at West Lakes, as he claimed a spot in the Crows’ senior team after a string of impressive performances in match simulation and trial games.
Coming into the team for Adelaide’s Round One blockbuster against Collingwood, he well and truly held his own in the ruck, winning a match-high 27 hit-outs, while also delivering a critical goal-assist to Ben Keays.
“There’s not much more you can ask for in a debut game for the Club,” McAndrew said about the experience of playing in Round One.
“There were 62,000 screaming fans, and to get the win over Collingwood, a team we’ve struggled a bit against in the past, singing the song after you could tell it meant a lot to the boys.
“I don’t think I’ve ever been more excited about something in my life, him (Ben Keays) picking up that ball and kicking the goal.
“You just know if you give the ball to Keaysy he’s going to do something special, so I just gave it to him and he slotted it through.”
As for what has been the biggest driver behind his rapid rise to the AFL arena, McAndrew was quick to acknowledge a pair of fellow Crows rucks that have been instrumental in his journey.
“Reilly O’Brien for sure and former player Kieran Strachan, those guys have been massive for me in developing my craft,” McAndrew said.
“I remember when I first got picked up by Adelaide, Strachanie was sitting down watching film of other SANFL rucks with me and helping me improve.
“ROB is the ultimate connector between young players and old players and an incredible leader, and has been huge in helping me develop my craft.”
To hear more from McAndrew, plus chats with Sid Draper and Toby Murray, watch The Crows Show on Channel 7 Adelaide straight after Friday night’s game at 11.15pm.
