Playing a vital role on Bobby Hill on Friday night, Zach Guthrie’s season continues to build with the defender averaging career high numbers in disposals, marks and rebound 50’s. 

Collecting 18 disposals of his own against the Magpies, the dependable defender joined 3AW's Saturday coverage and touched on his career so far following the win on Friday night. 

“It wasn't a bad analysis, I needed some time for my body to develop and to adjust to the demand of the game,” Guthrie told 3AW.  

“It always has been something I have aspired to do since I was a young kid, playing in the AFL and I have always tried to put in the hard work to give myself the best opportunity to play at the level.  

MELBOURNE, AUSTRALIA - JULY 12: Bobby Hill of the Magpies is challenged by Zach Guthrie of the Cats during the round 18 AFL match between Collingwood Magpies and Geelong Cats at Melbourne Cricket Ground, on July 12, 2024, in Melbourne, Australia. (Photo by Robert Cianflone/Getty Images via AFL Photos)

“There are plenty of ups and downs that players go through in their career, if everything was easy then a lot more people would play this game professionally. 

“There are times where it does become challenging but getting to experience success like we did in 2022, puts all of the hard work into context and makes it feel worthwhile.  

“I want to contribute to ultimately some team success for many years to come hopefully."  

Guthrie is closing in on 100 AFL games, an incredible milestone for a player who made just 19 appearances at the top level across his first four seasons.  

The 26 year old solidified his position in the side with a strong 2022 season, becoming an AFL premiership player alongside his brother Cam.  

08:54

The Guthrie's: Sons Of Sunbury | Country Game 2024

Ahead of Geelong's Country Game against Essendon, visit where it all started for Cam and Zach Guthrie at the Sunbury Lions Junior Football Club.

Adding to the fond memories at the MCG with a win over the reigning premiers last Friday, Guthrie said there numerous ways to play attacking football at the venue.   

“It is something we are constantly tinkering with in terms of our attack,” Guthrie said.  

“I don't think we attacked perfectly last night, I don't think you ever come away from a game thinking that you have executed everything perfectly.  

“Last night we showed maturity in that facet, part of that as well is the MCG being such a wide ground where it is really tough to stop everything in defence.  

“Part of playing on that ground is backing our guys in a contest, but taking what the game presents as well.  

“It can be a real weapon if you can get the ball into good areas, to then get some dangerous looks ahead.”