Kieran Lovell right to go for TSL grand final with Lochie Griggs set to miss

Kingborough are set to be with one of its best players for Saturday’s TSL grand final but another will miss through injury. See the details.

Kingborough midfielder Kieran Lovell has recovered from a hamstring injury and will play in Saturday’s TSL grand final against North Launceston. Picture: Nikki Davis-Jones

Kingborough midfielder Kieran Lovell is a certain starter for Saturday’s TSL grand final against North Launceston but hard running winger Lochie Griggs hasn’t recovered in time from a knee injury and will miss.

Tigers coach Trent Baumeler confirmed his superstar ball winner in Lovell had recovered from a hamstring complaint that saw him go off early in the qualifying final win over North Launceston but the news wasn’t as positive for Griggs.

Lochie Griggs has been an integral part of the Tigers line-up this season but will miss the TSL grand final through injury. Picture: Nikki Davis-Jones

“The week off allowed Kieran to be able to manage himself through what he needs to so he is right to go,” Baumeler said.

“Lochie had a six to eight week injury that he was trying to turn around in three to four and he has given it everything he can but unfortunately he hasn’t quite got to the line.

“That was a really difficult conversation to have last night (Wednesday). His body is just probably not allowing him to do what he needs to do to execute his role really well but we are really proud of the crack that he’s had at trying to get back.

“If the game was in seven days’ time he would be a massive chance to play but he just isn’t quite there at the moment.”

It’s a cruel blow for Griggs who had put together an outstanding season on the wing before he landed awkwardly on his knee at training prior to the round 21 game against Clarence.

The 24 year-old will be named as an emergency for the match with Baumeler confirming to The Mercury that was a decision made to acknowledge his strong contribution to the side throughout the season.