“HE’S one of those players where if you get the ball in his hands, the game almost stops a little bit.”

With injury comes opportunity. And in Carlton’s back half, no-one is thriving more with the responsibility than Sam Petrevski-Seton.

Truth be told, the Halls Creek Cowboy had already grabbed his opportunity at senior level with both hands: Sunday’s game against Richmond marked his 50th consecutive game (the most of any Blue).

However, with a number of key Carlton defenders sidelined through injury, Petrevski-Seton has been given the chance to show his capabilities across half back.

Speaking to Carlton Coaches’ Corner, assistant coach Dale Amos said the third-year Blue has impressed everyone in new surroundings after a standout season.

“He had a really good introduction in his first year and he was able to play every game last year,” Amos said.

“However, this year has certainly been a breakout for him and it’s been great to have him across half back.

“We felt like same would give us some drive across half back. It was a great opportunity and something we’ve been keen to do over a period of time.”

Having enjoyed some of his best performances in the midfield earlier this season, Petrevski-Seton has brought his natural game to his new position with immediate results.

Amos said the Club would continue to encourage Petrevski-Seton and his teammates to bring their strengths to the fore, regardless of their position.

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In the 21-year-old’s case, that centred around his ball-use and ability to work his way through traffic.

“Samo has got natural flair for the game. His poise and ability to see the game from half back has really suited him,” he said.

“His contest and ability to win the ball in 50-50 situations… [has] been something which we thought he was always going to be able to do.

“That’s been one of his real strengths which he’s been able to bring in playing down back.”

Since making the move to half back, Petrevski-Seton has averaged just under 20 disposals at over 75 per cent efficiency, proving to be an attacking outlet alongside the likes of Kade Simpson and Jacob Weitering.

As he continues to develop his defensive craft, Amos said Petrevski-Seton was someone who would continue to have flexibility in his game: however, he sees the youngster as a long-term midfielder.

“I’d love to see him play at half back for a long period of time,” he said with a grin.

“I think he’ll probably always have that midfield role. He’s been able to play forward, obviously he’s shown the capacity to play mid and now there’s the fact that he can play as a back.

“I think his defensive craft will help him in all roles, no matter what it is.”