HAMILTON Kangaroos recruit Tim Meulendyks believes two of the emerging Hampden league side’s developing talls can make an impact in 2018.
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Coleraine recruit Darcy Russell is expected to play a key forward role and Jack Pertzel is ontrack to make the number one ruck mantle his own.
Assistant coach Meulendyks, who has returned to the club following a stint in the SANFL, said Russell had put in the hard yards.
“Before Christmas when we were talking to him, I was a bit nervous about it, he was carrying a few extra kilos,” he said.
“But he’s really slimmed down and he’s absolutely smashing the running, so I am super excited to see him (play).”
Meulendyks said Pertzel, who impressed in 2017, would take his ruck craft to another level.
“I’ve heard he’s got plenty of ability but he hadn’t applied himself yet,” he said.
“He seems to have really applied himself this pre-season – he always wants to go for an extra session or go for a run. I am really keen to see how he goes in his first season as a big, focal ruckman.”
Fellow newcomers, including defender Jandre Slabbert and midfielder Tyrone Ross, are expected to add to the Roos’ onfield leadership.
“Jandre is a super exciting player and has played some really good footy, so to have him onboard as a big bloke is handy, and Tyrone (Ross) is just a gun so it will be good to play with him,” Meulendyks said.