In summary:
Exciting forward Robbie Fox became more of an AFL regular in his second season in red and white, upping his total senior games from three to 10.
The 25-year-old was rewarded with plenty of time in the AFL late in the campaign, playing six of the last eight games of the home-and-away season to help the Swans book a ticket to the finals.
Fox impressed with his stunning aerial ability, flying high to take a Mark of the Year contender in Round 6 and again in Round 19.
He also played a key role in the NEAFL side's strong season, playing seven second-tier games for the return of 27 disposals per match.
What the numbers say:
Games: 10
Goals: 4
Kicks: 54
Handballs: 52
Disposals: 106
Marks: 25
AFL Fantasy: 46.0 (average)
Best performance:
Round 6: Sydney Swans v Geelong Cats, GMHBA Stadium
Fox was crucial in Sydney’s stirring come-from-behind win over Geelong at the Cattery in Round 6. The rookie-listed Swan kicked two goals and catapulted off Geelong’s Zach Guthrie to take his first Mark of the Year contender. He booted both of his goals in the fourth quarter as the Swans bagged seven last-term majors to the Cats’ one, arresting a 22-point deficit at the final change to win by 17 points.
What they said:
Robbie Fox
“The coaches were really helpful in regards to coming in and out of the senior team. Tadhg (Kennelly) spent a lot of time with me this year, being a development coach, just saying you’re going to have bad games where you have to come back to the NEAFL and perform well to win your spot back.”
Head of Development John Blakey
“Robbie really took a big step forward this year. He played 10 senior games, which is a very good achievement. He possessses some really raw power, which is something we need to add to our senior side. He’s very explosive around the contest and we need him to bring that – and I think there’s so much more he can give us. We’re really excited for the pre-season for Robbie. Hopefully he can make sure he plays to his strengths in 2019 and plays some more senior football.”
In pictures:
Robbie Fox flies high for a Mark of the Year contender in Round 6.
And putting boot to ball in the Swans' clash with the Cats at the SCG in Round 16.
Stay tuned for the final season review set to be published on sydneyswans.com.au in the coming days.
