There’s good news on the injury front at Metricon Stadium with defender Kade Kolodjashnij and midfielder Jesse Lonergan both set to be available for next Saturday’s round one clash against Essendon.
Kolodjashnij was a late withdrawal against Adelaide in the side’s final pre-season game after pulling up with calf tightness, while Lonergan injured his ankle during the SUNS’ NAB2 clash in Perth against the Eagles.
“Kade’s just completed his running progressions this morning so he’ll be ready to complete full training next week,” head physiotherapist Adam Russell told the Optomo Injury Report.
“Jesse’s going really well too. He just finished his agility progressions today so he, like Kade, will join the main group next week ready for Essendon.
New recruit Jarrad Grant will make his first appearance in SUNS colours this Saturday in a NEAFL practice match against Aspley at Metricon Stadium.
Grant fractured his wrist in a cycling accident in January and after undergoing surgery on Australia Day, the 26-year-old finally has the chance to pull on the red and gold guernsey as he pushes for a spot in Rodney Eade’s round one side.
“He (Grant) was close last week, just wasn’t quite comfortable so he’s completed his contact progressions today and looking really good. He’s kept himself in really good nick so we’re looking forward to seeing him out there on Saturday,” Russell said.
Captain Gary Ablett declared himself ready to go for his side’s opening game during Thursday’s AFL season launch in Melbourne after missing all three pre-season games with a foot injury, while fellow midfielder Dion Prestia is also progressing.
“Dion’s tracking well. He’s increased his running over the last week,” Russell said.
“We’ll continue to monitor him in the coming week and see what the chances are for Essendon at the end of the week.”
