Hawthorn co-captain Jai Newcombe faces a potential suspension after a tackle on Western Bulldogs midfielder Ed Richards during a pre-season practice match on Friday night. The incident occurred during the Bulldogs’ 44-point victory over the Hawks at Whitten Oval, with the final score 18.9 (117) to 11.7 (73).
The tackle, which saw Newcombe pin Richards’ arm as he brought him to the ground, resulted in a free kick to Richards after his head made contact with the turf. While Richards was able to continue playing, the match review officer will assess the incident to determine if a breach of the AFL’s rules occurred. According to reports, Richards could have used his free arm to break his fall.
The Bulldogs appear to be in strong form heading into the season, with Jordan Croft impressing in attack, booting three goals in the first half. Development coach Jarryn Geary highlighted Croft’s performance, stating, “The pleasing thing about tonight was his [Croft’s] pressure and aerial presence. He’s a young player finding his way but showing promising signs and to hit the scoreboard and impact at ground level is quite promising for a guy of that stature.” Arthur Jones also contributed three goals for the Bulldogs.
Bulldogs midfielder Ryley Sanders will miss the opening round clash with Brisbane after suffering a concussion during the match. Sanders was struck in the face by a ball in the second half, ending a game where he had already accumulated 26 possessions.
Hawthorn’s performance, yet, drew criticism from assistant coach Adrian Hickmott, who acknowledged his team didn’t work hard enough. “At times we didn’t work hard enough,” Hickmott said post-game. “They worked us over the ground but not concerned at all.” The Hawks struggled across all areas of the ground, with their forwards converting only 20.8 per cent of their inside 50s into goals. Cam Mackenzie will undergo further tests after also sustaining a head knock during the match.
Despite the loss, Hickmott was positive about the performance of young forward Calsher Dear, who featured in a VFL practice match prior to the AFL game. “I watched him play today, he played well, got over the ground well,” Hickmott said. “His performance wasn’t quite where we wanted it going into this game, so, having a good run, we wanted him to play a full game, witness how he goes, got through the game well, so I’m pleased with that.”
The Bulldogs also have injury concerns heading into the season, with Sam Darcy complaining of soreness in his hip and groin. He trained on Friday but will be assessed on Wednesday to determine his availability for the Round 1 match against Brisbane. “He trained earlier today and had a controlled session,” Geary said. “He’ll be assessed on Wednesday. He’s got to get through that and see how he goes next week.”
Melbourne also played a practice match on Friday, defeating Richmond 12.6 (78) to 6.7 (43) in a game impacted by lightning strikes that forced an early finish. Melbourne forward Jacob van Rooyen kicked three goals, while Richmond’s Luker Kentfield and Sam Cumming both sustained injuries during the match.
