Hawthorn big man Max Bailey impresses in VFL hitout

A MIGHTY return from injury-cursed Hawks big man Max Bailey helped Box Hill usurp cellar dwellers Frankston by 14 points on Sunday.

Max Bailey

A MIGHTY return from injury-cursed Hawthorn big man Max Bailey helped Box Hill usurp cellar dwellers Frankston by 14 points yesterday.

The formidable ruck partnership of Bailey and Hawks rookie Adam Pattison enchanted the side to a 9.14 (68) to 12.10 (82) victory at Frankston Oval.

Injury has hindered the fragile giant’s development, limiting the luckless ruckman to just 22 games in six seasons.

Bailey had wrist surgery on the eve of the season which sidelined him for three months.

He has also suffered three season-ending knee reconstructions.

Hawks development coach David Flood said the club was not going to rush Bailey back into the AFL line-up until his body withstands the weathers of VFL.

“He looked really sharp out there today. He took some strong marks in trying conditions, but most importantly his leadership on the field was outstanding,” Flood said.

“The best thing for him is to put his foot forward each week and play a solid brand of footy. There’s plenty of time left in the year for Max and if his form warrant it he’ll get picked.”

The Dolphins challenged late, but couldn’t draw back the deficit, which stretched as far as 41 points in the third quarter.

In-form North Melbourne midfielder Ben Cunnington’s three goals charged VFL affiliate North Ballarat to a season-defining 30-point victory over Sandringham at Trevor Barker Oval.

Cunnington, fresh from servicing a one-match suspension for tripping, could be a likely starter when the Kangaroos take on Richmond this week.

Roosters coach Gerard FitzGerald said his side’s efficiency has brought about a late surge to top-eight contention, winning six of its last seven matches.

Dashing St Kilda defender Brett Peake could be set for a senior recall after collecting 26 disposals in a dominant defensive display.

Former West Coast rookie Adam Cockie shined (26 possessions) while Saints youngster Tom Ledger (18) was serviceable.

Kangaroos spearhead Ben McKinley gave Werribee a 24-point win over Coburg.

McKinley (five goals) and Ben Warren (four) derailed the Tigers after halftime, losing 16.19 (115) to 14.7 (91).
Cam Pederson’s stocks continued to rise with another standout performance.