‘Staying in the moment’ is helping Patrick Ambrose compete against some of the best forwards in the game.

The 24 year old has made the shift to defence this season.

Defensive Line Coach Mark Harvey initiated the move and has provided a constant sounding board for Ambrose who has also sought counsel from veterans James Gwilt and James Kelly.

Ambrose kept Jack Riewoldt goalless in round 17 and has also stood Jeremy Cameron, Matthew Pavlich and Jack Gunston throughout the year.

He said not getting too flustered if his opponent gets the better of him in a contest is one of the key focus areas when he’s lining up on the leading forwards in the game. 

“Just staying in the moment, if they kick a goal not worrying about it too much and just moving on to the next contest,” Ambrose said of his defensive mindset. 

“That’s what we’ve worked with Harvs a lot on, not worrying about what has happened, just working on what you can change in the next contest.”

Ambrose has just signed a new deal with the Bombers and is looking to develop his defensive game further throughout the pre season.

“My disposal can go to another level and just not being so man focused,” Ambrose said.

“I think at the moment I’m really trying to beat my man but dropping off and helping the other boys would be good.” 

At 193 centimetres, Ambrose has regularly played on taller opponents this season and he’s unlikely to get any respite this Sunday with Tom Lynch or Peter Wright shaping as possible opponents when the Bombers host Gold Coast.

Looking further ahead, Ambrose said the growth within the group and some returning players gives cause for optimism heading in to next year.