In summary:
A broken toe limited first-year Swan Matt Ling to just six NEAFL games in 2018, but the young midfielder showed promising signs when he pulled on the red and white.
The Swans recruited Ling and fellow Geelong Falcons product Tom McCartin at last November’s National Draft, securing Ling through their number one pick and McCartin number two.
Ling’s searing pace, strong endurance and neat left-foot kick caught Sydney’s attention ahead of the Draft – and Head of Development John Blakey says the Swans liked what they saw in the games the 18-year-old played this season.
Ling turned a two-year Swans contract into three before playing a game and became a NEAFL line coach after succumbing to injury in Round 8.
What the numbers say:
Games: 6
Goals: 2
Kicks: 47
Handballs: 31
Disposals: 78
Contested possessions: 27
Marks: 19
Tackles: 17
Best performance:
Round 6: Sydney Swans v GWS, Spotless Stadium
Ling starred as the Swans logged their first win of the NEAFL season, collecting 15 possessions, four tackles and a goal as Sydney grabbed a 31-point victory.
What they said:
Matt Ling
“I didn’t get to play many games but whenever I got the opportunity to I loved it and I’m looking forward to next year.”
Head of Development John Blakey
“He’s on the road to recovery now and we’re excited to get him back. We drafted him for a purpose – for his run and his talent he showed through his under-18s year. We get him back next year probably looking like a first-year player again because he hasn’t played much football at all. We’ll be really pleased to get him on the park.”
In pictures:
Ling with Ryley Stoddart and Tom McCartin on Day 1 of preseason.
A bit of friendly push and shove with Naismith who Ling spent quite a bit of time with in 2018 in the rehab group.
All smiles at training with Isaac Heeney.
Stay tuned for more season reviews at sydneyswans.com.au over the coming weeks.
