WING, forward or back: Will Setterfield is finding a way.
The recruit has put together two of his most impactful performances in Navy Blue over the last fortnight, but not in a way he was likely to expect.
It started in Round 16 against Melbourne, where Setterfield - who started on a wing - was pushed forward to maximum effect.
Kicking three goals from the 25-minute mark of the third quarter against the Demons, Setterfield backed it up to be a physical presence in the win over Sydney.
That also came in unfamiliar territory, lining up across half-back in the second half in the absence of Hugh Goddard.
“It’s been a bit funny — I’ve been thrown to each end of the ground the last couple of week,” Setterfield said.
“It’s been interesting, and a bit learning experience for me. I’ve been playing wing for most of the back half of this year as well.
“I’m loving it.”
Setterfield brought his natural contested game to the fore at the weekend, amassing nine tackles as the Blues brought the heat against the Swans from the outset.
Look who's back.
— Carlton FC (@CarltonFC) July 16, 2019
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The 21-year-old said the physical aspect of the game was something he “prides [himself] on”.
“I was lucky I got on the end of a few on the weekend and got a few holding-the-ball free kicks as well,” he said.
“It’s part of my position, I’m happy to play that role for the team: tackling is part of that.”
Setterfield’s introduction to the AFL system has been an interrupted one, playing only two games in his first two seasons following knee and ankle injuries.
Finding a new home this season, Setterfield - whose third season in the AFL could be treated as his first - said he was going to leave no stone unturned to make an impact in the final six weeks.
“I’ve sort of backed in my recovery and I’m doing everything I can. I don’t think there’s any reason why I can’t play every game this year.”
— Carlton FC (@CarltonFC) July 16, 2019
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“I was struggling to get a game for a few years, obviously doing my knee and had a bad ankle injury,” he said.
“I hadn’t played a lot of footy for a couple of years so I’m very happy with how it has turned out.
“I’m fortunate with the position I’m in to play some consistent footy and put a lot of hard work in over the last few years. I want to reap the rewards now.”