Jason looks to make impression

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  • Bart
    CHHHOMMMMMPPP!!!!
    • Feb 2003
    • 1360

    Jason looks to make impression



    By Nikki Tugwell
    March 24, 2004

    JASON SADDINGTON has put himself on notice ahead of the Swans' blockbuster season opener against triple premiers Brisbane on Saturday night after admitting his season 2003 was disappointing.

    Twelve months ago the Swans signalled their intention to build around then 23-year-olds Saddington and Adam Goodes by extending their contracts to 2006 and 2007 respectively.

    While Goodes' transformation from Mr Potential to Brownlow Medallist is folklore, Saddington missed 10 games with quad and knee injuries and his development, by his own admission, plateaued.

    "Even when I wasn't injured I don't think I was playing anywhere near my best form," said Saddington.

    "I was benched quite a few times in quite a few games. Overall I was pretty disappointed with how last year went. The consistency wasn't there and while I might be able to do it one week but then the next week I have a poor one."

    Saddington has assumed a heavier workload in an injury-free pre-season and the signs against Essendon at Newcastle last hitout were encouraging and his confidence re-emerging.

    "It's been a couple of years since I've been able to achieve what I wanted to achieve in a season," Saddington said.

    "This year certainly I've been making an effort to make sure I get back to playing how I want to play and be a better player.

    "Adam certainly took a step forward last year and that's something they're hoping for me to do as well.

    "This year is a big year in that way and I probably do need to show a bit more."

    The lanky defender's most memorable performance last year was round six against Collingwood when he beat Magpies star forward Chris Tarrant for three quarters.

    His physique suits an athletic leading forward such as Tarrant and his efforts went a long way towards that win which was pivotal for Sydney.

    Saddington is likely to line up on Martin Pike, Justin Leppitsch or utility Daniel Bradshaw on Saturday night.

    The Swans are without defender Andrew Schauble (hamstring) while Lions centre half-forward Jonathan Brown is serving the first week of his two-week suspension. Lions coach Leigh Matthews has ruled out full forward Alastair Lynch with a thigh strain.

    The Daily Telegraph
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