It’s been a whirlwind journey for the former Deni Rams player, starting his AFL career with Richmond in 2014.
Lloyd’s struggles to break into the Tigers’ best 22, after 57 games with them, saw him request a change of clubs, with the Bulldogs securing the 28 year-old for the 2019 season during the trade period.
The small forward’s first game for his new club comes against a familiar foe, with the Dogs set to host Sydney Swans — the side that Lloyd famously kicked a goal after the siren to beat — at Marvel Stadium tomorrow night.
Despite his side being unable to notch a win during the JLT Community Series — losing to Gold Coast by five points and St Kilda by 14 — Lloyd is confident that his side can bounce back.
‘‘It was disappointing (to lose) because you go into every game wanting to win, whether it’s JLT or the home and away season,’’ he said.
‘‘But I don’t think it’s all doom and gloom.
‘‘We actually played really well at stages (against the Saints) and I thought the midfield was outstanding.
‘‘Our field kicking and a couple of set shots we missed are things we can improve on.
‘‘We’ll be a five to six goal better side if we can fix that.
‘‘I feel like we’re moving in the right direction... we’re all pretty excited for round one.’’
The 180cm Lloyd, who will wear no. 22 for the Dogs, impressed in the JLT series.
Lloyd managed 17 disposals and didn’t hit the scoreboard in the first game against Gold Coast.
He showed his full potential against St Kilda in week two, kicking two of his three goals in the space of 90 seconds in the third term to bring his side into the contest.
Lloyd also managed to collect 18 possessions to be named among the club’s better players on the day.
The former Murray League century goal-kicker said he has quickly felt comfortable in the Bulldogs’ forward line and that he has settled well in the red, white and blue.
‘‘It was good to get onto the end of a few,’’ he said.
‘‘To kick three goals was a positive but I’ve got a lot of improvement to do.
‘‘In saying that I think the forward line is really starting to click and I think we can challenge Sydney.
‘‘Marvel is a nice quick surface which should help us with our game style.’’
●●●
Fellow Deniliquin AFL star Todd Marshall is also preparing for a round one clash when his Port Adelaide side travels to take on Melbourne Demons at the MCG.
The 198cm forward had a relatively quiet JLT Community Series, managing just one goal and 17 disposals in total over the two games.
Despite the slow start to the year, Marshall was still a strong chance to play in the season opener, with key forward Charlie Dixon still out of the side after minor surgery on his right ankle.
Marshall’s selection for the clash was not confirmed before the Pastoral Times went to print yesterday.
15°C