PORT Adelaide livewire Robbie Gray is surpassing his 2013 expectations with every game he plays – and the bad news for the Power’s opponents is that he feels he can get even better.
Gray has bounced back quickly after a knee reconstruction that saw him miss the bulk of last season, and has played a significant role in the Power's return to the top eight, averaging 16 possessions and a goal a game.
The 25-year-old is fifth in the competition for goal assists.
Gray told afl.com.au his knee was "feeling better and better" each time he ran out for the Power and, while he's been happy with his progress, he had plenty more to give.
"I wasn't quite sure what to expect how many games I'd play, so it's pleasing to have been able to string a few together," Gray said.
"I would have been happy with 10 games before the year started, but the knee got a bit better towards March and April. Once I got back into the side, I obviously wanted to stay there.
"I've felt like my form has been OK this season, but there's still room for improvement.
"My goal kicking over the last month hasn't been great, so that's something I can fix up.
"I've been able to get my hands on the footy a fair bit, but I'd like to be using it a bit better."
Gray’s dedication to rehabilitation after the sickening injury in round four last season helped earn him a promotion to the club's leadership group this year.
Gray said he was reveling in the added responsibility of playing as an official leader under new coach Ken Hinkley.
"Ken speaks about leaders being able to stand up on game day; that's obviously been a pretty big focus," he said.
"Everyone wants to play well on game day, but you have extra responsibility as a leader. I've really enjoyed that.
"I prepare and do everything pretty similarly to how I used to, but during games you've got more responsibility out on the field with structures and things like that."
Gray's 13 goals from 15 games has been beneficial this season, but his work in the lead up to a Power major has been just as important.
His 18 goal assists for the year and four tackles a game has made him one of the club's most important forwards.
The most encouraging thing about the Power's attack, Gray said, was how many dangerous forwards had found form.
Jay Schulz hardly looks like missing, Chad Wingard is in All Australian form, Angus Monfries has played career-best football and Jake Neade's defensive pressure has been exceptional in 2013.
"I think we've got a pretty dangerous looking forward line, there's a fair few different options," he said.
"That holds us in good stead; (the) opposition can't just shut down one person, it's an even spread."
Harry Thring is a reporter for AFL Media. Follow him on Twitter @AFL_Harry
