Round 10 Rising Star nominee Josh Lindsay says the Eagles are embracing the challenge of a blockbuster clash with Collingwood this Saturday, with the young defender eager to test himself in the MCG cauldron.
Waalit Marawar faces a unique challenge in front of a Sir Doug Nicholls Round crowd expected to exceed 90,000 as Scott Pendlebury breaks the all-time VFL/AFL games record in his 433rd match.
“I think he debuted before I was even alive, so it’s going to be pretty cool to be a part of,” Lindsay said.
“It’s a great occasion, but we’re there to win the game of football and we’re going to give it a red-hot crack.”
The Geelong Falcons product has made a strong start to his debut season, with his composed ball use and poise across half-back quickly catching the eye.
In the 17-point victory over GWS on Sunday, Lindsay produced 19 disposals at 95 per cent efficiency, adding 375m gained, six marks and three tackles.
“To get that recognition and the win on the weekend is a good reward for effort,” Lindsay said.
“It makes it even better when you win.”
Lindsay’s efficiency by foot has been a standout feature early in his career, but the draftee said it’s an area he continues to work hard on behind the scenes.
Entrusted with kick-in duties early in his career, Lindsay said the confidence shown in him by teammates and coaches had allowed him to play to his strengths.
“It comes pretty naturally, but I work super hard at it,” Lindsay said.
“Whether it’s down at the oval or in the shed, all the young boys work really hard, and it’s something I definitely pride myself on.
“It’s a good honour (taking kick-ins).
“The coaches and players give me great confidence to back myself in, and I enjoy doing it.
“I work really closely with the coaches (Jamie Maddocks and Shannon Hurn) and they give me great confidence to back myself in and pull those kicks off.”
After making his debut in round one, Lindsay briefly returned to the WAFL before working his way back into the side, a period he said helped shape his approach to AFL level.
“You’ve just got to stay level,” Lindsay said.
“Not get too high, not get too low. I learnt from it and I feel like I’ve got better each week since.”
With the noise and pressure of a packed MCG awaiting, Lindsay said communication and composure would be key for the young Eagles.
“There are going to be a lot of Collingwood fans there,” Lindsay said.
“Our communication has to be really strong and, if we bring that, it’ll hold us in good stead.”
