It’s no huge surprise to see Lions young gun Will Ashcroft dominating in his first AFL season, such is his composed nature.
The much-hyped father-son prodigy and Pick 2 draftee went into 2023 as one of the most exciting prospects in recent times and hot Rising Star favourite after a stellar draft year – expectations he’s very much lived up to.
Ashcroft produced another strong performance with 18 disposals and seven tackles in Brisbane’s 28-point win over St Kilda on Friday night as the Lions climbed into third place on the ladder.
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Speaking after his side’s win, the 19-year old personified the mantra of never getting too high or low, with his cool demeanour evident as he opened up on how he’s dealt with the pressure of being such a prized player and following in the footsteps of his father, Lions champion Marcus Ashcroft.
So much so that it’s hard to grasp that the level-headed youngster is only 14 games into his career.
“I was lucky to get a fair bit of exposure last year,” Ashcroft told foxfooty.com.au.
“It sort of helped me a little bit having that sort of pressure of living up to dad’s name and the pressures of coming into my draft year as a potential top-end pick.
“I think that prepared me really well.
“Just sticking to my process and the work I put and everything I do week-to-week to prepare. That’s where my focus is at and not to look to far ahead or look at external noise too much.”
Aschcroft has now averaged 22 disposals, 3.2 tackles and 3.6 clearances playing in all 14 games for Chris Fagan’s side.
The victory over St Kilda continued Brisbane’s strong recent form at Marvel Stadium, having now won seven of its last eight games at the venue.
Unfortunately though, Fagan’s men haven’t been able to translate that form across town at the MCG, with just one win from their last 14 games at the iconic ground in a record that’s been scrutinised by the footy world.
Ashcroft said Lions players haven’t paid attention to such criticism and are simply keen to turn around their form at the MCG next time they play there against Melbourne in Round 18.
“We’re not looking into it at all really as players especially, I think it’s just about sticking to our process. It’s not going waiver no matter where we’re playing,” he said.
“When we do come back to the MCG and play there again, it’ll be about sticking to our process because we know we can get the job done and we’ll do that when we get the next opportunity.”
Fagan was perplexed as to why his side couldn’t replicate its good form at the MCG, but pointed out that it’s a “unique oval” and that the club has played more regularly at Marvel Stadium.
He also highlighted that Brisbane is now 4-4 in away games this year, saluting that return with a cheeky reference to recent NBA Champions the Denver Nuggets.
“I think there’s some banter that we’re not much of a team on the road,” the Lions coach told reporters post-match.
“I don’t know whether any of you study the world of sport, but if you’re 50 per cent on the road you’re actually pretty good.
“The Nuggets’ home record was 34-7 and their away record was 19-22 and they won it.
“So if we can be around 50 per cent, I’ll be happy with that.”