Former Demon Finding His Feet At Tigerland

Haydn Busher gave Claremont fans a glimpse of what they can look forward to in 2015 after an impressive display in the Tigers’ 30-point victory over East Perth at Medibank Stadium.

Despite his four shots at goal registering 1.3, the former Perth player provided a focal point in the Tigers’ forward line, and was the beneficiary of some slick ball-movement and space to lead into.

“I thought as a team we went really well. We pretty much executed the things we set out to do – there’s still things to improve on, but overall, I think we’re pretty happy with how we went,” Busher said.

With team-pressure a key ingredient in the impressive win, Busher was quick to pay tribute to his fellow forwards.

“We’ve got a really good mix of smaller and younger guys in there,” Busher said.

“Sam Petrevski-Seton, Steven Edwards, Shane McAdam, and Keegan Knott – they’re all really young and enthusiastic, and I thought they played well.”

Busher also reserved praise for Ian Richardson, who was playing in his first game since 2013 after travelling last year.

“It’s fantastic having Ian out there and it’s awesome to play with a guy of that stature and I thought he was also really good today.

“There’s promising signs in the forward line with some players still to return.”

Busher, 23, has had an injury-plagued WAFL career to date, but is looking fitter than ever as he strives for team success.

“It was good to get to know some of the boys a bit better through playing with them – it’s completely different to training and so I’m just trying to build a bit of chemistry and pick up on the nuances that everyone has,” Busher said.

Despite the hot conditions at the weekend, Busher is already looking forward to the clubs upcoming match against Peel Thunder.

“It should be another good hit out – I feel like I need another one after today. I’m probably lacking a bit of match practice having only joined the boys in January.” Busher said.

After playing just 39 League games since debuting for Perth in 2010, Busher is ready to fill whatever roles are asked of him for the season ahead.

“I’m pretty open to anything,” Busher said.

“I’ve played half of my League career as a defender and half as a forward.

“I’ve been training with the forwards, but I guess there’s always that flexibility and Broady (Michael Broadbridge) knows that it’s there if he needs it – it’s good to mix it up.

Busher has wasted little time in settling into life at Tigerland, and is bullish about what the team can achieve in 2015.

“It’s been really good.” Busher said.

“Most clubs are pretty similar – all of the boys are really good and although it’s hard to put a finger on it – it’s not like a tangible difference - I think Claremont has a winning culture and I’m looking forward to being a part of it.

“Hopefully we’re building into something big this year.”

The Tigers will face Peel at Bendigo Bank Stadium this Saturday in their final pre-season match.

Bounce down is at 2.15pm.