Unofficial Preview Round 22 - Changes v Melbourne

[Gadzorks]

R u aware Cox was injured? From sen may not play anyway, just to be fair on the young kid.

I actually saw him today from a distance and he was definately hobbling - I think he will be out.

 

[LongLion]

Let's limit the changes. Missing only one week for a hammy is a pretty quick return. Wouldn't be surprised to see Witherden given another week off. We don't seem to know much about Berry's injury. I think Claye Beams did enough to retain his spot. Don't accept the view of some that decisions have been made about Claye Beams. Why play him this weekend if that is the case?

If there are changes, then Witherden & Berry for Cox and one of McCluggage/Allison. I think Allison did enough to retain his spot.

Think maybe this game was a tester for Claye in regards to his future next year. Think he went OK . Card not necessarily marked just yet.

 

[Dylan12]

Around the state leagues: Who starred for your club?

State league affiliate: Brisbane Lions (NEAFL)
This weekend: Brisbane Lions v Gold Coast - Saturday, August 12, 12.45pm, Gabba

Youngster Ben Keays kept his side in the contest with a team-high 32 possessions and five tackles in the seven-point loss.

Omitted key forward Josh Schache showed glimpses of his best with two goals from 13 touches and five marks.

The former No.2 draft pick resisted overtures from Melbourne-based clubs to re-sign with the Lions earlier this year.

Tall forward Matthew Hammelmann led the goalkicking for the Lions with three majors from his 12 touches and 11 marks, while Tom Cutler (26 disposals, two goals) and draftee Corey Lyons (25 disposals) also found the ball.

The Lions' 10-game winning streak came to end with the loss.

 

[Dylan12]

In the Mix: Who's a chance for Round 22?

Lions - It's going to be hard to change a winning team, but a couple of standout first-year players could be putting their hand up for a run on the MCG on Sunday against Melbourne.

Alex Witherden (hamstring) and Jarrod Berry (foot) both missed Saturday's big win over Gold Coast but are expected to be right in the frame to take on the Dees at the home of football.

If the duo are right to go, who they replace will be the next question.

Claye Beams - who replaced Berry on the weekend - was strong in his return to the Senior side, collecting 15 disposals and kicking a goal.

Melbourne - With finals on its radar, Melbourne will start to settle on its best 22 in the coming weeks.

But, as coach Simon Goodwin said, selection decisions will be based on form. So Jack Watts and Sam Frost are no certainties to return to the side after a rejigged forward line and new-look defence performed strongly against the Saints.

Watts had 22 disposals and kicked one goal in an encouraging VFL effort, while Frost was the carryover emergency along with midfielder Corey Maynard.

Despite collecting 28 disposals in the VFL at the weekend, Christian Salem will be unavailable for selection after accepting a one-match suspension for striking Carlton's Liam Sumner.

In better news, star forward Jesse Hogan has been thrust into the selection mix and is a chance to return earlier than expected from a broken collarbone. However, much will depend on how he trains in full contact drills on Wednesday and Friday.

Billy Stretch (29 disposals) and rookie Declan Keilty (22 disposals and 11 marks) were Casey's strongest performers on the weekend and will be considered. Tom Bugg has served his six-week suspension for striking Sydney's Callum Mills but will return via the VFL.

 

[Comeback Lions]

Witherden sounds likely and Berry pretty doubtful according to Lions recovery report. Could be only one change:

Head of Medical Peter Blanch today confirmed young defender Alex Witherden is likely to return this weekend.
“Alex has done very well with his hamstring rehabilitation. He ran fast today and we’re expecting him to be available this weekend,” Blanch said.

The news isn't as good for fellow young star Jarrod Berry. “Jarrod has some bone bruising on his foot. He is still struggling with it," Blanch said.
“He will start to train and run this week. We haven't made a decision on him this week yet."

 

[KissKiss]

No need to rush Berry then, I'd almost be happy if they just cotton wool him now for the season

 

[buttermuffs]

No need to rush Berry then, I'd almost be happy if they just cotton wool him now for the season

It'd be a shame he misses out on a rising star nod; I am confident he takes away the best first year player for the club though. Share the love around.

 

[Billy Puller]

Bone bruising is a bitch, took me over a month for it to be completely pain free. Such an annoying injury. Would be surprised if it ices him for the year