Geelong faces key player absence; St Kilda looks to maintain form
Geelong deals with key injury
The Geelong Cats are set to be without a key forward for an extended period after he sustained an ACL joint injury during a match against the Giants. The player is scheduled for surgery on Tuesday. The club has opted against an operation on his arm.
In other injury news for the Cats, Tanner Bruhn (neck) and Jack Henry (throat) have been cleared of serious injuries following a recent match in Western Sydney. Both players will be monitored throughout the week. Additionally, Mark O’Connor (tight quad) was a late withdrawal for Mitch Knevitt.
Gryan Miers is expected to be recalled after a strong performance in the VFL, where he registered three goals, 24 touches, and 10 tackles. This follows his management back from a partially torn ACL injury. Possible debutant Jay Polkinghorne is a strong contender to replace the injured forward, having scored five goals in the VFL, contributing to his 20 majors from six games at that level. Polkinghorne, selected with Pick 44 in the 2024 draft, had garnered attention in the pre-season with a three-goal showing against Hawthorn in a practice match.
The Cats’ ruck trio of Sam De Koning, Shannon Neale, and Mark Blicavs experienced difficulties against Kieren Briggs in the loss to GWS. This performance, following Mitch Edwards being dropped, could lead to Edwards’ recall or a change in the ruck strategy. James Worpel also impressed in the VFL with 33 touches and one goal, while Brad Close remains in the twos.
St Kilda maintains stability
The St Kilda Saints are described as well-settled after achieving consecutive wins following their bye. The team is preparing for its Round 19 clash against Geelong, scheduled for Thursday, July 16, at 7:30 PM AEST at GMHBA Stadium.
In the VFL, Hunter Clark recorded a game-high 32 touches, continuing his strong form at the lower level. Other players who could be considered for the senior side include Jack Macrae, who had 28 disposals, and Jack Carroll, who contributed 24 touches and 11 marks. Max King is likely still a week away from returning, though he might play in the VFL. There is no official timeline available for Tom De Koning (ribs).
For the upcoming match, gates at GMHBA Stadium are scheduled to open at 5:30 PM, with the first bounce at 7:30 PM. The game will be broadcast on Seven, Fox Footy, and Kayo. Spectators are advised that there is no general public parking available at GMHBA Stadium, but Australian Disability Parking (ADP) permit holders can access limited parking at Gate B6. Geelong Railway Station is located 1.8 kilometers north of the stadium, and South Geelong Station is 450 meters to the east, offering convenient public transport options.
Other team news
Sydney Swans experienced a significant setback against Fremantle, conceding 100 points in a half. Veteran utility Joel Hamling, who had no disposals from 62 percent time on ground, is a likely change. Caiden Cleary had five possessions in half a match, while Angus Sheldrick (45 percent time on ground) and Tom Hanily (61 percent time on ground) also saw limited action. If Logan McDonald recovers from his quad concern, he could directly replace Hamling.
In the VFL, Riley Bice recorded 31 touches and 13 intercepts, while Braeden Campbell returned from a long absence with 22 disposals and two goals. First-year player Jevan Phillipou also performed well, pushing for a senior debut.
Adelaide Crows secured a 79-point victory over Gold Coast, but Rory Laird exited the game before half-time with a left ankle injury. He is expected to be sidelined for at least two weeks with a low-grade syndesmosis injury. Coach Matthew Nicks confirmed that mid-season draftee Hugo Hall-Kahan will replace Laird. Hugh Bond is another option if the Crows seek a defensive player to match up against Sydney’s Tom Papley. Ruck Lachie McAndrew, who played 55% of game time, is expected to be ready to play against Brodie Grundy, potentially leading to Toby Murray‘s exclusion. Callum Ah Chee returned from a hamstring strain in the SANFL, while Billy Dowling had 28 disposals and two goals. Nick Murray had 11 intercepts and nine rebound 50s from 28 touches. Jordon Butts, an emergency, recorded nine intercepts and is close to senior selection, as is Isaac Cumming.
Port Adelaide suffered multiple injury blows against St Kilda, with Zak Butters (syndesmosis) and Mitch Georgiades (concussion) facing time on the sidelines. Jason Horne-Francis will miss a match due to a dangerous tackle. Jack Lukosius (calf) and Lachie Jones (ribs) will be assessed, and Mitch Zadow (illness) was a late withdrawal. Todd Marshall is a likely replacement for Georgiades. Jack Watkins, who had 27 touches in the SANFL, and Will Lorenz (26 touches) and Will Brodie (19 disposals) could be considered for midfield roles.
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Source: foxsports.com.au
