Irish rookie Niall McKeever did himself and the Club proud on Saturday when he lined up for Queensland in the State match.
The 22 year-old almost helped his adopted State to an unlikely victory over the more fancied ‘Black Swans’ and his development further impressed the Lions coaches.
“We obviously didn’t have a game on the weekend, but it was great for Niall to be selected to play for Queensland over in Perth,” Reserves Coach Nathan Clarke said.
“I wasn’t at the game, but from all reports Niall was very good - particularly in first half.”
“His performances won’t harm his chances of getting a senior match at some stage later this year.”
“His work ethic and ability and pick up the skills of the game so quickly have been nothing short of remarkable.”
McKeever will play a key role for the Lions Reserves this Sunday when they meet second placed Mt Gravatt at Dittmer Park.
“They’re second on the ladder, but have won only three games more than us. That’s probably a fair reflection of how close the competition is this year,” Clarke said.
“They are a quality side and have a lot of players who pose dangers for us.”
“Obviously Albert Proud is playing good footy with them now. He was also one of Queensland’s best against WA on the weekend.”
“The latest injuries to senior players also means that we probably won’t have as many listed players as we’ve had in recent weeks.”
“But we’re only a week or two off seeing guys like Brent Staker, Callum Bartlett and perhaps even Charmo come back through the Reserves.”
“Fingers crossed we can get a few players back soon.”
Clarke has also been thrilled to see so many of the developing youngsters at the Club be afforded an opportunity to play senior footy, with Patrick Karnezis the latest teenager to ‘graduate’ from the Reserves.
“I think it’s a credit to Vossy first and foremost. He’s been willing to continually blood young players and give them a taste of senior football,” Clarke said.
“The development programs at the Club are just fantastic and no doubt will help build a promising future.”
“The Western Magpies relationship is also doing wonders for our young guys.”
