Australian Football

Barrie Robran's oldest son Matthew made his senior SANFL debut aged eighteen in 1989 and impressed so much that he was taken by Hawthorn in that season's National Draft. After remaining with the Redlegs for one more year he crossed to the Hawks in 1991 but was only really a fringe player during his one season, for 7 games and 5 goals, with the club. Robran then took a one season break from football at the end of which he was traded to Adelaide. After struggling initially, partly owing to injury, he hit his straps to become an important player for the Crows. Well proportioned at 193cm and 99kg he boasted tremendous athleticism and was a thumping kick. Initially used mainly as a forward he later developed into a fine centre half back and could also take a turn in ruck when required.

Matthew Robran was a key contributor to Adelaide's 1997 and 1998 grand final triumphs over St Kilda and North Melbourne respectively. He played at centre half forward in both games. A chronic back injury forced his retirement at the conclusion of a 2001 season which had seen him play the last of his 130 AFL games for the Crows and make the last of 54 SANFL appearances with Norwood. He booted 110 goals for Adelaide and 59 with the Redlegs. His enforced retirement meant that he missed the opportunity to play alongside younger brother Jonathon at Norwood in 2002.

Author - John Devaney