AFL injury list: who’s hot and who’s hurt after Round 20
UPDATE: Hawthorn defender Ben Stratton is racing the clock to be fit for finals due to a pectoral injury. Every club’s playing stocks reviewed.
AFL
Don't miss out on the headlines from AFL. Followed categories will be added to My News.
UPDATE: HAWTHORN defender Ben Stratton is racing the clock to be fit for finals.
The crucial Hawk injured his pectoral muscle in Saturday’s loss to Melbourne and will now miss at least the next three weeks.
Stratton’s hopes of featuring in September will be helped by the bye week between Round 23 and the first week of finals.
Hawthorn’s football operations general manager Chris Fagan said it wasn’t ideal this late in the season.
“Ben will miss three-to-four weeks with his pectoral injury which isn’t ideal,” Fagan said.
“He’s an important part of our backline unit but we are confident others will step up to cover his absence.”
ADELAIDE
INJURIES
Paul Seedsman (corked buttock) test
Sam Jacobs (ankle) test
Riley Knight (ankle) 1 week
Andy Otten (thumb) test
Keenan Ramsey (ankle) TBC
Nathan van Berlo (foot) 1 week
MATCH REPORT: CROWS FLY HIGH, LIONS SINK TO NEW LOW
ON THE BLOCK: Paul Seedsman’s interrupted season appears is continuing. He came off with what was believed to be a knee/hip complaint and was iced down. On the upside, he had been in fine touch, dancing around an opponent for a nice goal and looking like his form is still up there.
ON THE CUSP: Ruckman Sam Jacobs was on the brink leading up to this match and is likely to again push for selection for next week’s match against Fremantle. Veteran Scott Thompson was just having a well-earned breather this week and should return to the side.
JESPER FJELDSTAD’S FORECAST: An argument can be made that the Crows haven’t had much opposition since their eight-game winning streak was snapped by Geelong, which beat them in the midfield. But the display against Brisbane was clinical and there is barely a weak link in this side. Adelaide by six goals.
BRISBANE LIONS
INJURIES
Claye Beams (knee) season
Dayne Beams (knee) indefinite
Tom Bell (knee) season
Allen Christensen (collarbone) season
Darcy Gardiner (ankle) TBC
Cian Hanley (groin) indefinite
Ryan Harwood (knee) season
Jaden McGrath (foot) indefinite
Josh McGuinness (hamstring) TBC
Dan McStay (ankle) season
Marco Paparone (hamstring) season
Sam Skinner (knee) season
Josh Watts (groin) season
MATCH REPORT: CROWS FLY HIGH, LIONS SINK TO NEW LOW
ON THE BLOCK: The Lions are in a very tough position with three rounds left in the season. Senior coach Justin Leppitsch knows many of his young players aren’t up to AFL standard yet but because of injuries, he has to keep playing them. Nick Robertson, Daniel Merrett, Lewis Taylor and Josh Walker are all under the pump after combining for just 10 kicks against the Crows on Saturday night.
ON THE CUSP: It wasn’t pretty for the Brisbane NEAFL side which was smashed by 135 points at the weekend. Michael Close, Trent West and Jackson Paine were among the best for the Lions and could be called upon to make a senior return.
LIAM TWOMEY’S FORECAST: After being smashed by Port Adelaide and Adelaide in the last two weeks, the Lions need to show something when they host Carlton on Saturday afternoon. While they are unlikely to win the match, a good start would be a more defensive mindset. Carlton has struggled in the forward line all year and allowing the Blues to kick a massive score would be another terrible look.
CARLTON
INJURIES
Ciaran Byrne (knee) season
Charlie Curnow (knee) 3 weeks
Andrew Gallucci (shoulder) season
Marc Murphy (ankle) test
Ciaran Sheehan (hamstring) season
MATCH REPORT: BLUES BLOWN AWAY IN WALKER FAREWELL
ON THE BLOCK: While it was a bruising day for Carlton on the scoreboard against St Kilda, the Blues emerged from the 71-point loss injury-free. There will be at least one change after Andrew Walker played his final game while a number of players are searching for the finish line this season.
ON THE CUSP: Is this the week Marc Murphy returns? The skipper hasn’t played since Round 10 but is closing on a return. Andrejs Everitt booted five goals in the VFL and Liam Jones also competed well up forward, while Mark Whiley and Jason Tutt worked hard in a disappointing loss to Richmond.
REBECCA WILLIAMS’ FORECAST: After showing promise earlier in the season, the Blues have now lost their past eight games. They have a chance to snap that losing streak against the Brisbane Lions at the Gabba on Saturday. Coach Brendon Bolton said his players looked “tired and sluggish” in the loss to the Saints, but was hesitant to forecast what changes he might make to find some spark. “I’m not going to make statements on that right now, I like to make informed decisions on that,’’ Bolton said. “I will go home, as will our coaches and analyse the tape, have a good look at the Northern Blues and then make those assessments.’’
COLLINGWOOD
INJURIES
Scott Pendlebury (ankle) test
Darcy Moore (hamstring) test
Ben Sinclair (concussion) test
Brayden Sier (back) 1-2 weeks
Jamie Elliott (back) season
Alex Fasolo (shoulder) season
Tim Broomhead (shoulder) season
Tom Langdon (knee) season
Jackson Ramsay (knee) season
Matt Scharenberg (knee) season
Dane Swan (broken leg/foot) season
MATCH REPORT: TIGERS RESPOND WITH STATEMENT WIN
ON THE BLOCK: Coach Nathan Buckley declared it was the “worst three quarters” he had seen all season from his side in Friday night’s loss to Richmond, and he could well come out swinging. The forwards were a big focus for Buckley, who labelled them completely ineffective in the 15-point defeat, and the likes of Mason Cox, Jonathan Marsh and Marley Williams all struggled to have an influence. Scott Pendlebury’s ankle has the Pies sweating, with the skipper to be watched closely during the week.
ON THE CUSP: Young forward Darcy Moore faces a test on his hamstring this week and could provide the spark the attack so desperately needs. Jordan De Goey contributed in front of goal at VFL level, while Tyson Goldsack was dominant in a huge win for the VFL Magpies and could well regain his spot.
LAUREN WOOD’S FORECAST: There’s nowhere to hide for the Pies, who will no doubt bear the wrath of a smarting Nathan Buckley this week. Friday night, Western Bulldogs, Etihad Stadium. The trifecta. Ball use simply has to improve if they are to maintain any pride – which is all that’s left to play for – over the last few rounds. If Pendlebury misses, things could get ugly.
ESSENDON
INJURIES
Brendon Goddard (groin) 1 week
Mark Baguley (knee) season
Mitch Brown (groin) TBC
Nathan Grima (hip) TBC
James Gwilt (knee) season
Mark Jamar (hamstring) 2 weeks
Alex Morgan (hamstring) 2 weeks
Orazio Fantasia (rest) available
Mathew Stokes (groin) test
MATCH REPORT: CATS’ WIN NOT ENOUGH FOR TOP FOUR
ON THE BLOCK: Brendon Goddard strained his groin and effectively ruled himself out of Sunday’s clash against the Suns. Aaron Francis is battling fatigue and might need a spell while Sam Grimley disappointed against the Cats.
ON THE CUSP: Orazio Fantasia should slot straight back in after freshening up. Kyle Langford was the best AFL-listed player in a big VFL loss.
SAM LANDSBERGER’S FORECAST: Three games to go. Twelve quarters. The Bombers have been very brave this year and the growth of Darcy Parish, Fantasia, Zach Merrett and late excitement of Francis has sold enough hope for the next generation. Adrian Dodoro has assembled a very nice batch of talent and when some bigger bodies return around these kids they’ll quickly be a force.
FREMANTLE
INJURIES
Harley Balic (wrist) TBC
Michael Barlow (shoulder) season
Harley Bennell (calf) season
Zac Dawson (suspended) 2 weeks
Nat Fyfe (fractured leg) season
Brady Grey (ankle) season
Sean Hurley (hip) TBC
Michael Johnson (knee/hamstring) TBC
Alex Pearce (leg) season
Tanner Smith (hamstring) 2 weeks
Matthew Uebergang (hamstring) season
MATCH REPORT: DOCKERS’ DERBY CHALLENGE FALLS SHORT
ON THE BLOCK: The Dockers appear likely to try to stabilise the side after being highly competitive with West Coast in the first half. Ethan Hughes might be vulnerable if the club decides the time is right to bring back Anthony Morabito. Young key forward Michael Apeness was praised by Ross Lyon after kicking one goal from seven disposals.
ON THE CUSP: Anthony Morabito played arguably his best WAFL game for the season in Peel’s six-goal win over East Perth to push his claims for a senior call-up. Morabito, who is coming out of contract, had 26 disposals in defence as he fights for his career and a recall for his first AFL game since 2014. Matt Taberner impressed with 23 touches and two goals in the WAFL, but is likely to have to wait for Round 22 for his next chance when Matthew Pavlich will likely be rested. Connor Blakely impressed for Peel with 22 touches and a strong tagging job.
BRADEN QUARTERMAINE’S FORECAST: The Dockers have lost six games in a row and it is likely to be nine by the time Mad Monday arrives. All they can do against Adelaide (home), Greater Western Sydney (away) and the Western Bulldogs (home) is keep getting games into kids. The most interesting storyline will revolve around what happens with Morabito, while club legend Matthew Pavlich will play an emotional farewell game in Round 23.
GEELONG
INJURIES
Daniel Menzel (adductor) test
Jordan Cunico (knee) 2 weeks
Lincoln McCarthy (adductor) TBC
Tom Read (knee) season
Billie Smedts (broken fibula) 1-2 weeks
Jackson Thurlow (knee) season
Nathan Vardy (ankle) test
MATCH REPORT: CATS’ WIN NOT ENOUGH FOR TOP FOUR
ON THE BLOCK: Daniel Menzel has an adductor issue and will be assessed this week. But the Cats are starting to look pretty settled and one man surely safe for now is Sam Menegola. Looks a real find.
ON THE CUSP: Defenders Jake Kolodashnij and Tom Ruggles will be considered while Darcy Lang was named in the VFL best after kicking a goal in a big win against Frankston.
SAM LANDSBERGER’S FORECAST: Shouldn’t lose again this season but need to start pumping sides to catch up valuable percentage points. The trip to the Gabba in two weeks looks the best opportunity given the improved performances of Richmond (Round 21) and Melbourne (Round 23). Premiership hopes will greatly improve if they can sneak into the top two and dodge jumping on a plane to start September.
GOLD COAST
INJURIES
Alex Sexton (corked quad) TBC
Tom Nicholls (knee) TBC
Gary Ablett (shoulder) season
Aaron Hall (hamstring) 1 week
Jesse Lonergan (shoulder) test
Nick Malceski (knee) test
Trent McKenzie (groin) season
Dion Prestia (knee) season
Michael Rischitelli (knee) season
Luke Russell (toe) season
Danny Stanley (ankle) season
David Swallow (knee) indefinite
MATCH REPORT: GIANTS SURVIVE MAJOR SUNS SCARE
ON THE BLOCK: Tom Nicholls battled manfully with a suspected PCL problem in his left knee for the best part of three quarters. He will have scans on Monday and is 50/50 at best to be fit for the Bombers. Rodney Eade lauded the overall team performance against the Giants so nobody will be omitted for poor form. Maybe youngsters Josh Schoenfeld and Jesse Joyce could make way.
ON THE CUSP: Hard running defender Adam Saad got through the NEAFL match with no problems on Saturday and will be available for senior selection against the Bombers. Aaron Hall is also expected to be available for the trip south after overcoming a hamstring problem. Utility Alex Sexton (hamstring/corked thigh) is expected to be available despite leaving the ground in the third term against the Giants.
GREG DAVIS’S FORECAST: If the Suns bring the same intensity and effort as the past few weeks, they should dismantle the Bombers. Backing up from a hard-fought battle with the Giants will test the young Suns physically and mentally who have been brave for the past two weeks only to suffer single-digit losses to the Dees and Giants. But acting co-captains Steve May and Tom Lynch have been in outstanding form and will drive the standards.
GWS GIANTS
INJURIES
Jeremy Cameron (hip) TBC
Dylan Shiel (groin) test
Paul Ahern (knee) season
Caleb Marchbank (shoulder) season
Cam McCarthy (illness) indefinite
Jarrod Pickett (foot) season
Dylan Shiel (groin) test
MATCH REPORT: GIANTS SURVIVE MAJOR SUNS SCARE
ON THE CUSP: There is talent queued up around the block trying to break into the Giants senior team. Will Hoskin-Elliott was the best player in the reserves’ 121-point win against Gold Coast reserves on Saturday. Jacob Hopper was also very good with four goals in his first game back from stress fractures in his back. Jack Steele also played well, booting three.
ON THE BLOCK: Jeremy Cameron copped a knock to his hip but played on to kick two important goals while Zac Williams also overcame a hit from teammate Rory Lobb. Both are expected to be fine for the match against West Coast at Spotless Stadium.
NEIL CORDY’S FORECAST: The Giant have two games at home at Spotless Stadium after four on the road. They face West Coast and Fremantle in must-win games if they are to hang on to their top-four spot. Like the Swans, Crows and Cats there is also a big incentive to win if Hawthorn slip up against North Melbourne.
HAWTHORN
INJURIES
Ben Stratton (pectoral) 3 weeks
James Frawley (jarred shoulder) test
Paul Puopolo (hip) test
Jarryd Roughead (illness) season
Ryan Schoenmakers (groin) test
Liam Shiels (hamstring) test
Matt Spangher (hamstring) test
MATCH REPORT: DEMONS BEAT HAWKS TO END HOODOO
ON THE BLOCK: No need to panic after one loss, so don’t expect significant changes other than replacements for the injuries. The Hawks will be sweating on the match review panel assessment of Cyril Rioli’s bump on Clayton Oliver, but at least the young Demon was able to get straight back up. Concerns over Ben Stratton’s pec injury will be cleared up by a scan early this week, and more will be known of late withdrawal James Frawley’s “grumbly” shoulder late this week ahead of a possible return against North Melbourne on Saturday. But Alastair Clarkson admits the undermanned defence needs to tighten up against the Kangaroos.
ON THE CUSP: Paul Puopolo is likely to be a welcome return this week from a hip injury, and his pressure was missed in defence on Saturday. Liam Shiels, too, will push for selection again after recovering from his hamstring injury. Forgotten Hawk Ryan Schoenmakers will resume in the VFL soon, but Clarkson admitted that a lot has to go for last year’s premiership player to be considered a senior chance in the finals, given his frustrating run this year,
GLENN McFARLANE’S FORECAST: Just an aberration or an indication of vulnerability? We won’t know for sure for some time to come, but this team had been up for a long while, which can be taxing. Expect them to hit back — and hit back hard — against the Kangaroos this week to protect top spot. But there are some things that need to be cleaned up, not the least of which is finishing off in front of goal. Still the team to beat in September, even if a few of their rivals are gaining in confidence.
MELBOURNE
INJURIES
Jesse Hogan (bruised knee) test
Max King (wrist) TBC
Mitch King (knee) season
Heritier Lumumba (concussion) indefinite
MATCH REPORT: DEMONS BEAT HAWKS TO END HOODOO
ON THE BLOCK: Hard to fault after a performance like Saturday’s, when the Demons toppled the premiership favourite Hawks. But someone needs to make way for Jesse Hogan, don’t they? Cam Pedersen was a late inclusion for him on Saturday, but contributed strongly, while debutant Sam Weideman certainly did his bit. Don’t envy Roosy this week.
ON THE CUSP: It was a day out for Jay Kennedy-Harris in the VFL, booting four goals in a best-on-ground showing in a huge win over the Bombers. Christian Salem and Jack Grimes also performed strongly, but, due to the weekend’s result, will find it hard to make a push.
LAUREN WOOD’S FORECAST: The Demons will be flying high and full of confidence ahead of this weekend’s clash with Port Adelaide. They broke a huge drought against the Hawks – as has become a trend during Paul Roos’ tenure – and will be out to do the same over the Power, having fallen short in their past seven encounters. Their efficiency going forward and pressure was something to behold on Saturday and if they can keep up the lack of waste and trepidation, things are looking bright. But backing it up is vital. Look for Jack Viney to turn on another blinder and big Max Gawn to put his looming All-Australian wares on show against Jackson Trengove.
NORTH MELBOURNE
INJURIES
Ben Brown (knee) TBC
Ryan Clarke (shoulder) TBC
Scott Thompson (groin) TBC
Aaron Black (ankle) 1 week
Taylor Garner (knee/hamstring) 1 week
Shaun Higgins (knee) 1 week
Ben Jacobs (foot) 1 week
Luke McDonald (hamstring) 1 week
Farren Ray (hamstring) 2 weeks
Kayne Turner (hamstring) 2 weeks
Mason Wood (knee) 4 weeks
Jarrad Waite (hip) TBC
Sam Wright (ankle) 1 week
MATCH REPORT: DOGS BARE TEETH AGAINTS SLUGGISH ROOS
ON THE BLOCK: Injuries continue to mount at Arden St with Ben Brown, Scott Thompson and Ryan Clarke joining a depressing list of wounded Roos. Scans on Monday morning cleared Brown and Thompson of serious injuries but they are both in doubt this week. Over-possession cost North badly against the Western Bulldogs, cruelling the influence of forwards Drew Petrie, Majak Daw, Lindsay Thomas and Brent Harvey. North’s daunting run to the end of home and away season will be telling.
ON THE CUSP: Lachlan Hansen is waiting another chance at AFL level while second-year draftee Ed Vickers-Willis is close to a debut after another strong performance for Werribee. Will Fordham had 25 disposals against Box Hill and Robin Nahas took a contender for mark of the year.
LEO SCHLINK’S FORECAST: Successive clashes against Hawthorn, Sydney and GWS — all entrenched in the top four — will measure North’s true scope. With Jarrad Waite sidelined, Ben Brown’s recovery from a knee issue will be vital. Key defender Scott Thompson is no less important. Facing a vengeful Hawthorn is not ideal, but there will be no excuses for players unable to perform for the second successive week.
PORT ADELAIDE
INJURIES
Alipate Carlile (knee) season
Hamish Hartlett (calf) 2 weeks
Jack Hombsch (hip) season
Dougal Howard (knee) season
Aidyn Johnson (hamstring) season
Tom Jonas (hamstring) 2 weeks
MATCH REPORT: SWANS MAUL POWER TO KEEP HEAT ON TOP FOUR
ON THE BLOCK: After four goals a week ago, John Butcher had just four kicks against the Swans. None of Brad Ebert, Darcy Byrne-Jones or Karl Amon could crack double-figure disposals and Robbie Gray (seven touches) had one of the worst games of his career.
ON THE CUSP: Port has used 34 players this season and this figure could reach at least 36 as the agenda for the last three weeks of the season turns to list management. Coach Ken Hinkley notes he has “one or two other” untried draftees to consider from the Magpies’ SANFL system. The most-interesting options are late picks from the 2014 AFL national draft - Billy Frampton and Jesse Palmer, in particular Palmer. “Hopefully, we will get a look at them at some point ... and why not?” Hinkley said. “Why not have a look and see what they can and can’t do?
“Why not make some (selection) decisions based on more about the future? That is what we should do, but you should also give those boys who are coming up the chance to do well.”
MICHELANGELO RUCCI’S FORECAST: Great one week and horrible the next. It has happened again with Port Adelaide. After lighting up the scoreboard with a 94-point bashing of 17th-ranked Brisbane at the Gabba, the Power’s near-record 67-point belting from Sydney at the SCG highlights how Ken Hinkley’s crew is caught in the middle of the very bad and the very good — to be very average. And that is why Port Adelaide holds 10th spot. The maths still say eighth spot is open to the Power — if Port Adelaide wins its remaining three matches against Melbourne, Adelaide (highly unlikely) and Gold Coast and eighth-placed North Melbourne loses its three games in the run home to September. Don’t bet on it.
RICHMOND
INJURIES
Jake Batchelor (shoulder) season
Reece Conca (hamstring) TBC
Brett Deledio (calf) TBC
Ben Griffiths (groin) test
Kamdyn McIntosh (ankle) 2 weeks
Steven Morris (knee) season
Chris Yarran (mental health) TBC
MATCH REPORT: TIGERS RESPOND WITH STATEMENT WIN
ON THE BLOCK: A precious 15-point win over Collingwood gives Richmond immunity from the scrutiny which enveloped it last week, but coach Damien Hardwick will continue to sift through his list in preparation for 2017. David Astbury’s pre-match hamstring concerns were wiped out with another impressive performance in defence, while Ty Vickery managed two goals despite wrist soreness.
ON THE CUSP: Hardwick has some selection options with Brett Deledio pushing for a return against the Cats and another impressive VFL victory. Liam McBean booted four goals while Kane Lambert and Ben Lennon (three goals each) were dominant. Tall defenders Nathan Broad and Todd Elton were also named in the best.
LEO SCHLINK’S FORECAST: Relief and elation flowed through the Tiger rooms on Friday night as success over the Magpies delivered vital breathing space for the embattled club. Harwick and the Richmond board can expect a relatively calm week, but there’s still a tricky string of matches to complete a disappointing season. The Tigers face Geelong — a side Hardwick has never beaten as coach — and St Kilda at the MCG before ending the season against Sydney at the SCG. If any of those contests deliver heavy defeats, expect the muttering to return.
ST KILDA
INJURIES
Luke Dunstan (shoulder) TBC
Nathan Wright (back) TBC
Hugh Goddard (Achilles) season
Brandon White (hamstring) test
MATCH REPORT: RAMPANT SAINTS MARCH OVER TOP OF BLUES
ON THE BLOCK: Luke Dunstan injured his shoulder laying a tackle in the final quarter and Saints coach Alan Richardson said it was likely he was going to need surgery. “We’ll get scans but it doesn’t look great,’’ Richardson said. “It’s disappointing for Luke. It’s yet to be confirmed, but the early diagnosis that’s what it looks like. There will be further scans.’’ Nathan Wright copped a knee in the back just before halftime, but was forced back to the field after Dunstan’s injury earning the praise of Richardson for his “ticker”.
ON THE CUSP: Full-forward Paddy McCartin is pushing for a return and was again in the best in the VFL with five goals. Cam Shenton, an emergency against the Blues, booted six in Sandringham’s big win against North Ballarat.
REBECCA WILLIAMS’ FORECAST: Even if it is only a mathematical chance, the Saints have kept their slim finals hopes alive after their big win over the Blues. The equation is this: they need to win their remaining three games, while also relying on the eighth-placed Kangaroos to fall over in all of theirs. The next assignment against Sydney at Etihad Stadium on Saturday night will test the Saints’ finals credentials. After the coach praised the “22 contributors” in the win against the Blues, it’s hard to see the Saints making many changes other than for the injured Dunstan and Wright, if he doesn’t get up.
SYDNEY SWANS
INJURIES
Lance Franklin (knee) TBC
Gary Rohan (hip) TBC
Abe Davis (ankle) 3 weeks
Alex Johnson (knee) indefinite
Zak Jones (ankle) 3 weeks
Lewis Melican (hamstring) 1 week
Sam Reid (calf/Achilles) 1 week
Daniel Robinson (shoulder) 3 weeks
Callum Sinclair (knee) 3 weeks
Michael Talia (club suspension) indefinite
Kurt Tippett (hamstring tendon) 2 weeks
MATCH REPORT: SWANS MAUL POWER TO KEEP HEAT ON TOP FOUR
ON THE CUSP: Ben McGlynn and Jeremy Laidler were among the best in the Swans reserves’ demolition of Brisbane’s reserves in the NEAFL. McGlynn had 32 disposals in Sydney’s 135-point win of the Lions reserves. Ted Richards kicked two goals.
ON THE BLOCK: There were plenty of Swans players limping at the end of their big win over Port Adelaide. Lance Franklin copped a knock to his knee as did Harry Cunningham and Gary Rohan played on with a bruised hip. John Longmire is confident all three will be OK to play against St Kilda on Saturday.
NEIL CORDY’S FORECAST: Sydney faces an in-form St Kilda at Etihad Stadium, where the Saints have won seven of their past eight matches. If North can upset Hawthorn on Saturday at the MCG there will be an enormous incentive for the Swans to beat the Saints with top spot and the minor premiership up for grabs.
WEST COAST EAGLES
INJURIES
Sam Butler (groin) TBC
Liam Duggan (calf) TBC
Kane Lucas (knee) season
Fraser McInnes (hamstring) test
Kurt Mutimer (hamstring) 2 weeks
Jack Redden (shoulder) test
Alec Waterman (illness) indefinite
MATCH REPORT: KENNEDY, EAGLES FLY HIGH IN DERBY
ON THE BLOCK: Simon Tunbridge looks to be the most vulnerable player at the selection table if the Eagles look to make a change ahead of Saturday’s crunch match against Greater Western Sydney. Midfielder Dom Sheed (12 possessions) was again underwhelming in his second game back, but might be extended some patience after a long injury layoff.
ON THE CUSP: Lewis Jetta had 23 disposals for East Perth in the WAFL but doesn’t look ready for a call-up. Jack Redden didn’t play at all, being held over as the emergency before completing a running session on Subiaco Oval on Sunday night. Redden looks to be the next midfield cab off the rank. Eric Mackenzie’s form is always good in the WAFL, but with Tom Barrass impressing again he will struggle to break back in this season unless an injury opens an opportunity.
BRADEN QUARTERMAINE’S FORECAST: The Eagles completely overpowered local rival Fremantle after a worrying start, to remain a mathematical chance for a top-four berth. West Coast faces a brutal finish with GWS (away) followed by Hawthorn (home) and Adelaide (away). It’s hard to see any more than one win in there. Realistically, the Eagles are eyeing off fifth or sixth and a home elimination final.
WESTERN BULLDOGS
INJURIES
Clay Smith (concussion) test
Marcus Adams (foot) 1 week
Tom Campbell (foot) TBC
Kieran Collins (shoulder) TBC
Tom Liberatore (ankle) 3 weeks
Jack Macrae (hamstring) 3 weeks
Robert Murphy (knee) season
Josh Prudden (knee) season
Jack Redpath (knee) season
Matthew Suckling (Achilles) test
Mitch Wallis (broken leg) season
Bailey Williams (knee) 1 week
MATCH REPORT: DOGS BARE TEETH AGAINST SLUGGISH ROOS
ON THE BLOCK: Clay Smith will be monitored after being pulled out of the game against North Melbourne early with concussion. Big men Tom Boyd and Zaine Cordy had little impact but there is little in the way of potential replacements.
ON THE CUSP: Footscray recorded a nail-biting four-point win against Williamstown but most of the best players were VFL-listed. The exception was small defender Jed Adcock.
JAY CLARK’S FORECAST: Finally Luke Beveridge should start to get some players back to help further strengthen his young team, which continued to defy a horrible injury run with another impressive win over North Melbourne at the weekend. Beveridge said big man Tom Campbell and defender Matthew Suckling were both a chance to return in Friday night’s clash against Collingwood. But the coach will have to back in the club’s young and cobbled-together midfield to get the job done again against the Pies, with Mitch Wallis out for a year and Tom Liberatore and Jack Macrae a few more weeks away.
Originally published as AFL injury list: who’s hot and who’s hurt after Round 20
Ablett’s heartbreaking condition reveal
Jordan and Gary Ablett had been reluctant to discuss many details about their little boy’s heartbreaking condition until now.
Waiting game? Dockers continue to keep tabs on Swans superstar
The possibility of Chad Warner asking for a move back to Western Australia continues to make the rounds, but how quickly could it happen? Fremantle have had their say on the matter.