Ross Lyon believes key forward Cam McCarthy is half-way to becoming a very exciting player for Fremantle.
The former GWS Giant has been thrust in to the important role of being the Dockers main man in attack since the injury to Matt Taberner.
Cam McCarthy is rising to the challenge.
Photo: AFL Media/Getty Images
And hes had mixed results, kicking 11 goals in eight games this season to lead Fremantles goal scoring.
But for the time being, thats enough for Lyon.
“He's played some good footy. If he keeps kicking one or two a week, he's going to come home with 30 to 40 goals,” Lyon said.
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“Everyone was riding, and we were riding Matt [Taberner] a bit to be honest, and you want them to come through quicker. But sometimes to mature and grow … it's typically 80-100 games of about 15 players before you can win a flag.
“So, he's had 46 (48). So, he's half-way. And if you're kicking 30 or 40, you're a pretty good player.
“If he's kicking 1.1 and competing and chasing like he did tonight, we'll take it.
“We're just so excited about what he's going to be at 100 games. And couple it up with [Brennan] Cox at 100, [Adam] Cerra at 80 or 100. I think we're all going to be excited by that.”
He could get some assistance in the forward line next week with Michael Walters expected to push for selection after missing two games with a knee injury.
Stephen Hill should also return for Saturdays game against the Sydney Swans at the SCG, as should defender Nathan Wilson who missed the game against the Saints with back soreness.
Hayden Ballantyne had ice on a corked thigh after kicking the opening goal on Saturday night, but is expected to be available to meet the Swans.
Lyon said Ballantyne was benefitting from a full pre-season and was back to playing to some of his best football. He was also linked to a move to cross town rival West Coast a couple of seasons ago that didn't eventuate.
“I thought he was super tonight before the cork,” he said.
“He's playing some really good footy.
“A lot of people questioned Hayden, but his summer has been amazing, and his enthusiasm, and his leadership.
“A few years ago there was a lot being written and said about Hayden, and it turned out to be not true in a real sense, and he's very much a Docker and committed and passionate, so we're thrilled with that.”
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