Jared Petrenko and Angus Poole reach 100-game milestone for Eagles
WOODVILLE-West Torrens duo Jared Petrenko and Angus Poole will share a terrific milestone when they take on Adelaide in the SANFL on Sunday.
WOODVILLE-West Torrens gun Jared Petrenko has confessed to almost calling a halt to his career in recent years.
Troubled by constant injury woes, the star midfielder has asked himself the question whether to persist or walk away a few times.
The start to his season was delayed by his appearance on reality TV show House Rules and then he was sidelined by a knee injury. He has had chats with Eagles coach Michael Godden on his future.
“It has been frustrating,” Petrenko said. “I’ve had a lot of thoughts whether I’ll keep going and all that sort of stuff.
“The body feels good, but I keep getting injured. I hurt my knee and then broke my ribs and can’t get continuity.
“I’ve definitely thought about giving it away, even in recent times. I weighed up if I should keep going for this year and anything further as well.
“It does weigh on your mind. At the same time, I have to concentrate on what is important and the big picture is I need to get myself right for the finals.”
Petrenko will make his 100th league appearance when the Eagles host Adelaide at Woodville Oval on Sunday.
It is probably appropriate he achieves the feat against the Crows, having played 76 AFL games for the club in his stint at West Lakes from 2008-14.
“It is a massive honour,” Petrenko said. “I grew up idolising the SANFL and I’m absolutely pumped to be playing 100. It has been a long time coming.
“I was expected to play it (his 100th game) half way through last year, but I’ve had a lot of injury issues. It has been a long ride, but I’m thankful to finally get there.”
Fellow Eagles onballer Angus Poole will also make his 100th appearance, with Peternko absolutely pumped to be sharing the honour with him.
Petrenko described Poole as almost the heart-and-soul of the club given the way he goes about his game with his fearless approach.
“Pooley does not take a backward step and that is why we love him,” Petrenko said. “He is so important to the side and who better to share the 100 games with.”
The Eagles need a victory to continue their push for a top three spot and the vital double chance in the finals.
That is the same situation for South Adelaide and Sturt when they meet at Noarlunga Oval.