Scott Clayton
New Roos recruit and former Brisbane player Josh Clayton is a versatile footballer, who throughout his career played in the forward line, midfield and in defence.
Sons of guns and more joining Roos
By Robert Muir
South Cairns premiership footballer this year and former Brisbane player Josh Clayton heads the list of more recruits to Corowa Rutherglen for season 2025.
The son of former Fitzroy player and Gold Coast list manager Scot Clayton, Josh played two games with Brisbane and many in the reserves.
The 191cm (6’3”), 86kg (190lb) plays in the midfield and half forward and will turn 29-years-of age in January.
“Josh comes to us from South Cairns, following our coach, Daryn Cresswell. Known for his big body and inside midfield prowess, Josh is a force to be reckoned with. Not only does he dominate the contest, but he also has a knack for kicking crucial goals,” the Roos facebook states.
“With AFL experience at the Brisbane Lions, a premiership at Southport, and a dominant history in the Ovens and Murray (with Wodonga), Josh is sure to make a huge impact on the field next season.”
South Cairns 2024 premiership player Tyler Roos made an impressive debut at John Foord Oval in Round 9 this year in a one-off game and is sure to pick up where he left off in blue and white.
Tyler will bring a wealth of experience and strong footy attributes to the Roos. “This gun midfielder has competed at VFL level, clinched a premiership with Southport and dominated the OMFNL during his stint with the Rovers,” the Roos say.
Tyler is the son of renowned AFL player and premiership Sydney coach Paul Roos.
Big-bodied, versatile Liam McCarthy from South Cairns is heading to the Roos for the 2025 season.
McCarthy has the ability to impact the game across all three lines. His booming left-foot kick will no doubt excite Roos’ supporters.
He has a wealth of experience, having honed his craft with the Colac Tigers in the highly competitive Geelong Football League, following a promising start with the Geelong Falcons in the NAB Cup.
His talent earned him VFL honors with the Geelong Cats before making his way to the South Cairns Cutters for the last two seasons.
The Roos will welcome Finn Osborne back to John Foord Oval and the Corowa Rutherglen Football Netball Club.
After spending the past two seasons with the Wangaratta Rovers, Osborne has firmly established himself as a reliable and consistent player in the Ovens and Murray senior competition.
With a strong physique, a hard-working attitude and a genuine hunger to grow as a footballer, Finn is ready to take the next step in his career. His return represents an exciting opportunity for him to continue his development in an environment where he knows he will be valued and supported.
“We’re beyond excited to have him back, and we look forward to seeing him make a significant impact as we head into the new season,” the Roos say. Osborne played in this year’s premiership side with Wang Rovers.
Former Deniliquin star Ray Murphy, who has shown his talent across various leagues, is heading to John Foord Oval.
Originally hailing from Deniliquin, he most recently had stints at Werribee in the VFL and Greenvale in the EDFL this year.
A tough, hardworking inside midfielder, Murphy is known for his skill in the contest and ability to spread and use the ball on the outside. He’s versatile too, with the ability to go forward and hit the scoreboard when needed.
Murphy’s footy journey also includes a stint with the Bendigo Pioneers in the TAC Cup. In 2023, he was recognized for his outstanding form with the Best & Fairest award at Deni Rovers.
Despite an injury-riddled 2024, Murphy is ready to bounce back stronger than ever.