‘Creating your own story’: Lyon rubbishes Marshall rumours
Ross Lyon rubbished “created” reports around Rowan Marshall’s future after the ruckman’s impressive performance in St Kilda’s 27-point loss to Geelong on Thursday night.
Despite the loss, Marshall had a career night, scoring two goals, a career-high 33 disposals and a club-record 26 contested possessions.
Ross Lyon speaks on Thursday night. Fox Footy
Marshall is contracted to the Saints until the end of 2027, having signed a five-year extension in 2022.
But after submitting an unsuccessful trade request to Geelong late last year, reports state he could be looking for another move, with the Cats and Western Bulldogs linked to him.
Lyon spoke glowingly about Marshall’s form post-match and dismissed reports about the player’s future.
“It’s probably disappointing that he starts playing really well, and then someone creates a story that they spoke to AFL players, and they think the Bulldogs might come for him. Like, which players? St Kilda players? Bulldogs players? Gold Coast players?” said Lyon.
“I understand you’ve got to fill content, but you’re actually creating your own story. Then, I get asked leading into the game about a story that’s been created by a journalist ... and I have to say: ‘Noted’, and that he’s contracted. It’s the current world we live in.
“People are creating content to fill all the slots. It’s just the way of the world though, isn’t it? Journos are speaking to players that the Western Bulldogs might try and trade for Rowan Marshall, who is contracted, and then that becomes the story.
“It’s fascinating, but if they can reconcile that with writing a story and filling their space, well then that’s the current world we live in.”
When pressed further about the club’s stance on the final year of Marshall’s deal, Lyon shut it down.
“I’m here to talk about an AFL game. I note that there was a report, and I note that he’s contracted — that’s the end of it.”
Marshall’s form has been strong in recent weeks.
Marshall has shown great character in 2026. AFL Photos via Getty Images
Last round, he had a goal and 29 disposals against Port Adelaide, and the week before, he amassed 20 disposals and another two goals.
With Tom De Koning out after the round 15 loss to the Bulldogs, Lyon said Marshall has been a valuable piece in his absence.
“To be honest, when they’re both in we’re a better team. We’re a more threatening team and (with) a more challenging front half,” Lyon told journalists post-match.
“They kick goals, and our stoppage rate (and) score rate hasn’t been done for 17 years at this club. You can’t discard the facts (of) how powerful it’s been as a combination. He was very good tonight.”
St Kilda plays North Melbourne on Sunday at Marvel Stadium in round 20.
