Marvelling at Matt’s path to 100 games

By ZAC MILBANK

It’s a significant achievement to play 100 Hostplus SANFL League matches.

But it takes on new meaning when those 100 games have been played in succession, such is the case for Glenelg’s dual premiership utility Matt Allen.

After spending four seasons on West Coast’s AFL list, the 27-year-old arrived back at Brighton Road ready to start his senior SANFL career with the club he was drafted from in 2015.

Since Round 1 of the 2020 season, Allen has not missed a match for the Bays in a nod to his admirable durability and commitment to preparation and recovery.

Speaking on SANFL Radio, the 193cm playmaker said he learned a lot from his time with the Eagles, including how to manage his body in a professional environment.

He also thrived under the leadership of Eagles captain Shannon Hurn and the likes of Luke Shuey, giving him a platform to be a key leader in the Tigers’ current line-up.

Now vice-captain at the Bay, Allen says the people he is playing with each week, on and off the field, are what continues to drive him to be his best.

Paying significant tribute to Glenelg’s dual premiership mentor Darren Reeves, Allen is excited by the prospect of potentially playing under Reeves in his role as West End State coach this season.