‘Enormous Pressure on Him’: Lloyd’s Guidance as AFL Slaps Fine on ‘Distracted’ Harley Reid

AFL legend Matthew Lloyd has expressed his concerns that Harley Reid may be getting “distracted” by the external chatter surrounding him, offering guidance to the young star who recently faced criticism following an incident with a spectator on Sunday.

Reid incurred a $1000 fine from the AFL for making an impolite gesture towards the crowd after being awarded a free kick during his team’s 19-point defeat to the Brisbane Lions.

Although he avoided immediate sanctions from the match review panel, the midfielder was required to explain his actions, which resulted in a misconduct charge.

Lloyd believes the penalty was warranted for the inappropriate gesture, but noted that the relentless external attention on the 19-year-old could explain his somewhat lacklustre performances this season.

The 2023 number one draft pick has struggled to leave his mark in the early rounds, drawing criticism from analysts for his on-field conduct.

Last season, Reid averaged the second-highest number of free kicks in the league, yet against the Lions, he ended up conceding seven of his own.

“The crowd was getting into him, and that can be tough to handle,” Lloyd remarked on Nine’s Today regarding Reid’s display against the Lions.

“He’s constantly featured on the front and back pages of the West Australian. The pressure is substantial… it tends to compound when other crowds target him.

“He appears to be playing in a distracted manner right now. Rather than engaging in fights and grappling, he needs to refocus on playing football – something he’s naturally gifted at.”

There’s ongoing speculation regarding Reid’s future with West Coast, as his contract runs until 2026, and he has been linked to potential moves away from the club.

Reports suggest a shift to Victoria is possible, with clubs like Essendon and Richmond emerging as potential contenders for Reid’s signature.

“He’s contracted for next year, but it seems he has aspirations to return home to Victoria,” Lloyd noted.

“He will definitely be one to keep an eye on over the next year.”