EFL: Waverley Blues footballer Michael Hogan suffers horrific broken leg against Donvale

WAVERLEY Blues’ clash against Donvale was delayed for more than 30 minutes after Blues footballer Michael Hogan suffered a horrific broken leg.

Matthew Sharpe kicked one goal on Saturday. Photo Christopher Chan

A HORRIFIC leg injury to Waverley Blues footballer Michael Hogan overshadowed the Blues’ Round 1 victory over Donvale on Saturday.

The game was delayed for about 30 minutes in the final term after Hogan broke both his tibia and fibula bones before Waverley Blues went on to record a 13.18 (96) to 10.10 (70) win.

Waverley Blues coach Bryce McGain said the incident occurred when Hogan’s leg got trapped underneath him in a tackle.

An ambulance was called to the ground and he underwent surgery on Sunday morning.

“Unfortunately it was (Donvale coach) Matt (Fife) laying the tackle and he felt it on his hip and it was a horrible feeling,” McGain said.

“He showed an enormous amount of concern and was really respectful in leading their whole club through that situation.

“Not nice at all, nasty break and you really feel for Michael. Respect to Donvale, they handled it really well.”

Relegated from Division 2 last year after just two wins, Waverley Blues raced to a 20-point advantage by quarter-time after four goals to one in the first term.

The home side extended its advantage over last year’s Division 4 premiers to 29 points by halftime before finishing with a 26-point victory.

Debutant and junior product Jaye O’Connell kicked three goals in his first senior appearance, while former Brisbane Lions midfielder Billy Evans, who is aligned to the Waverley Blues from VFL side Box Hill, was among the best players.

“They’re starved of success, this group, but with a few new blokes in there, the new blokes sort of led the way,” McGain said.

“It was a great learning for everyone and they were really pleased just to get a win, doesn’t count for a whole season, but they were pleased to get that one and learn how to go about it when the other team is really throwing everything at you.”