Dual Adelaide club champion Rory Sloane has expressed his disbelief at the harsh criticism aimed at West Coast midfielder Harley Reid, especially given that this is only his second year in the AFL.
Reid’s performance during the opening round match against the Suns on Sunday was below his usual standards.
The Eagles were soundly defeated by 87 points on their home ground, and Reid faced backlash for various incidents that garnered significant media attention. He was particularly called out for a perceived dive after contact with Charlie Ballard and his interactions with rival players.
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Oscar Allen and Harley Reid exiting the field at half time during the round one AFL clash between West Coast and Gold Coast. Paul Kane via Getty Images
The 2023 No.1 draft pick has borne immense expectations since making his debut for the struggling Eagles in round one of the previous season.
He has also been in the limelight with ongoing media speculation around his contract, including predictions that the Tongala native might become the first player in the league to land a $2 million deal.
Having completed only one full season, Sloane has urged commentators to consider Reid’s past performances when discussing his current showing.
“Much has been said regarding Harley Reid’s display over the weekend, and I feel it’s crucial to provide a different perspective,” he said during Tuesday night’s episode of Nine’s Footy Classified.
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“I am truly appalled by the level of scrutiny he has received. He is just a 19-year-old with enormous expectations [for success].
“His performance last season was among the finest first-year efforts I’ve ever witnessed in the AFL. I sincerely hope Harley is tuning into the voices that matter – those within the footy club.
“The coaches and team leaders should be guiding him, reassuring him that it was merely one poor game. Yes, mistakes were made, but he will learn from them.”
“He still has plenty to absorb after that initial year in the sport.”
Harley Reid falls after contact with Charlie Ballard. Fox Footy
Essendon legend James Hird concurred that the amount of criticism focused on Reid is excessive for a player in a team sport.
“Regardless of how talented he is, a 19-year-old still needs to grasp the fundamentals of the game. Learning to play at the AFL level is crucial,” he remarked.
“I can only hope the coaching staff are investing time in teaching him those essential skills that every player must learn.
“Your first year in the AFL is about laying that foundation; the second year should be about hard work, and I’m certain the coaching team is guiding him in what needs to be done.”
Sloane, who enjoyed a 16-season career, also highlighted the necessity for young players to have mentors and experienced leaders to help them navigate their formative years, suggesting that the absence of such figures at West Coast could be influencing Reid’s development.
Compiled by SportArena.com.au.
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