Family Issue sidelines Stengle; Stevens to debut

Geelong forward out for Richmond clash

In a late change, Tyson Stengle will miss Geelong‘s game against Richmond due to a family matter. This absence paves the way for George Stevens to make his AFL debut this Saturday.

Unexpected Absence

Stengle had been named in the team on Thursday night, but coach Chris Scott announced on Friday that the star forward would be unavailable. Scott indicated that Stengle remains interstate, without elaborating further on the specifics.

As the team prepares, Scott emphasized the importance of communicating promptly when a player’s availability changes. “At least in the very short term, Tyson Stengle is not going to play. He has got a family issue that he is dealing with,” he said.

Stevens set for debut

With Stengle‘s withdrawal, George Stevens, pick No. 58 in the 2023 AFL draft, is set to make his debut. He was part of the 22-man squad, confirmed by Scott, who isn’t in favor of a debutant playing as a substitute.

Scott explained his preference against using a debutant as a substitute: “It is not the reason I am not a fan of it, but it is not great when a debutant is the sub…we just think that the right thing for our team this week is for him to be in the 22.”

Across the AFL, debutants have an average age of around 21 years old, underscoring the significance of their inclusion in the main team (AFL.com.au).

Guthrie’s Possible Return

Cam Guthrie, who has been sidelined since the 2022 grand final, is likely to play in the VFL this week, as he aims for a late-season comeback. Scott expressed optimism about Guthrie‘s potential return to form.

“The way he is moving at training reminds me a bit more of the Cam Guthrie I knew, so I am pretty positive on that, obviously without any guarantees,” Scott noted.

Scott’s milestone match

Saturday’s game against Richmond marks Chris Scott’s 350th as Geelong coach. Despite Bailey Smith‘s absence from Friday training, Scott assured fans that the midfielder will play.