AFLW 2024: Essendon star Bonnie Toogood sidelined by knee injury
Scans have revealed the extent of damage to Bonnie Toogood’s knee after the Essendon star was in a horror collision with a teammate.
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Essendon’s finals hopes are in tatters only one game into the season with co-captain Bonnie Toogood ruled out for up to eight games with a medial ligament injury.
Toogood hurt her knee in a horror marking contest collision with 19-year-old teammate Amber Clarke, who was knocked out cold in an incident coach Natalie Wood said “jolted” the players.
The reigning best and fairest and All-Australian captain avoided damage to her ACL but will leave a gaping hole in the Bombers forward line while she is sidelined.
Clarke was stretchered off the field following the second-quarter collision but was cleared of any damage to her neck or facial fractures on Monday.
Essendon medical boss Megan Smith said it was “extremely unfortunate” to lose both forwards, with Clarke entering concussion protocols.
“It’s extremely unfortunate for Bonnie and Amber to have to spend time on the sidelines. The incident was a heavy clash between the two players, with both showing extreme commitment to the ball,” Smith said.
“While we are disappointed that Bonnie will be out for a significant part of the season, we are relieved that there is no damage to her ACL. Bonnie will commence rehab with the aim of returning later in the year.
“Amber has entered concussion protocols and is recovering well. She was up and talking after being stretchered off and was further assessed in hospital Saturday night to clear any concerns of further damage. Amber’s symptoms will be monitored closely, which will determine her return to play.”
Fremantle piled on 10 of the last 12 goals of the game at Windy Hill after Clarke and Toogood were ruled out of the contest.
The unexpected loss has left the Bombers on the back foot ahead of Saturday’s trip to Perth to face West Coast at Mineral Resources Park.
The Eagles loom as a tough assignment after coach Daisy Pearce won her first game in charge in a one-point thriller against Richmond.
Originally published as AFLW 2024: Essendon star Bonnie Toogood sidelined by knee injury
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