Liam Jones | 2021 Season Review

Written by Ari Stamatakos

SEASON SYNOPSIS

After a career-best 2020, much the same was expected for Liam Jones. He proved to be one half of - one of the best - defensive partnerships in the game alongside Jacob Weitering, and they both compliment each other's game brilliantly. With Weiters, crediting his BnF win to Jones. He started pretty disappointingly, but he lifted his game as the season progressed and proved to be - once again - a very solid defender. Whilst he did have the occasional mind-blank and poor decision, like always, he rebounded, and the very next play was - nearly always - world-class. His season was cut short via an injury which saw him missing the final 2 games of the season. However, he was consistent throughout and in a system that hung him out to dry on multiple occasions, he showed the footy community that he is a seriously good defender. 

BEST PERFORMANCE

Just like many this year, Liam Jones breakout game for the season came in round 3 against the Dockers. The game was set up for him, Matt Tabener was the only tall, stay at home forward for the Dockers, and with Luke Parks making his debut, this allowed Liam Jones all freedom in the world to intercept mark all day long. 

He had 20 disposals, 85% efficiency, 9 marks, 16 intercept possessions, 5 score involvements, 605 metres gained, 5 rebound 50’s, 6 inside 50’s. This was, by far, his career-best game and what was most impressive, what the drive he was able to give the Blues on offence. His 6 inside 50’s was the second most on the day, and his 85% disposal efficiency was the 3rd most for The Blues. He was hitting forwards on the chest with ease. For a player who has been quite suspect with his kicking over the years, this was a big step in the right direction. This also put another string in the bow of the Blues, as we now know that Jones and Weitering have the capabilities to hurt a team with their kicking ability.

OFF-SEASON & 2021 OUTLOOK

There will be nothing really to look for in the off/pre-season for Liam Jones. He will turn 31 before the new season and his only main objective is to stay fit. There will be no real changes to his defensive cohort - Caleb Marchbank injury set back the only real way it could've changed. The only difference that could be there is, what system does the new coach play? He was exposed countless times under the abhorrent defensive structure which David Teague persisted with, so with a little bit more guidance and structure, he could turn into an All-Australian fullback very quickly. 

2021 REPORT CARD RATING

A-

STATUS HEADING INTO 2022 

Consistent 22.