A contract extension is imminent for Gold Coast vice-captain Tom Lynch after his star turn in Sunday’s AFL pre-season clash but the identity of his forward partner will be at the Suns this year is anything but clear-cut.
Acting skipper Lynch kicked three goals and took six marks as the Suns beat Brisbane by 25 points in their opening NAB Challenge match at Burpengary.
The 23-year-old, who has been widely tipped to succeed Gary Ablett one day as the side’s full-time captain, appears ready to take the next step in his career – but there is also an intriguing battle between Sam Day and Peter Wright for the other key position spot that Lynch is happy to sit back and watch unfold.
With Lynch’s long-time offsider Charlie Dixon now at Port Adelaide, there is a vacancy up forward for the Suns and both Day and Wright staked their claim to it on Sunday.
The more experienced Day was thought to have had the inside running, but he was quiet against the Lions while teenager Wright booted one goal and made a nuisance of himself at contests around the ground.
Coach Rodney Eade admitted Wright, who stands at 203cm, was the better performer but Lynch says both can add to Gold Coast’s attack this season.
“I think Pete or whoever gets picked they’ll play a good role for us. That won’t be an issue. I think they’ll step up and have a good year,” Lynch said on Monday.
“Daysie is at an age where he’s fit and can start plucking them and kicking goals. (His) defensive pressure was really good, he chased and harassed and could have got on the end of a couple.
“Pete worked really hard as well, took a couple of grabs and could have had a couple more. I’m sure if they keep working hard they’ll get on the end of a few more and really command a spot.”
Lynch said he wasn’t bothered about his own future, with the Victorian product set to stay on the tourist strip despite big-money offers coming from his home state.
“My manager is working with the club at the moment and they’ll work through that. I don’t think it’ll be too far away,” he said.
“I’m not too worried about it. I like playing at the club and think we’re heading in the right direction.
“I’m looking forward to playing footy and getting out there and hopefully having a good year.”
