Gold Coast SUNS livewire Brandon Matera and young defender Kade Kolodjashnij will both make their return to the AFL this Saturday, with the dynamic duo named to play against Carlton at Etihad Stadium.
Matera’s senior recall follows his successful comeback in the NEAFL last weekend, where his 26-possession display saw him awarded best-on-ground honours against Aspley in the round 19 curtain-raiser.
He spent more than a month on the sidelines overcoming a lingering groin complaint, but it didn’t take long for the West Australian to find form.
General Manager of Football Operations, Marcus Ashcroft, told goldcoastfc.com.au the club was excited to have the goal-sneak back in the starting line-up.
“There is no question that a fit and healthy Brandon Matera is a significant boost for our side,” Ashcroft said.
“He has shown real consistency this season, and has played a key role in our forward group.
“We’re looking forward to welcoming him back in the side.”
In equally exciting news, creative half-back Kolodjashnij will also make his AFL comeback, after he was passed fit by club medical staff following his month-long lay-off with a hamstring strain.
The NAB AFL Rising Star candidate hasn’t played since he was injured in the round 17 loss to the Western Bulldogs in Cairns, but has completed all the necessary rehab work according to Ashcroft.
“Kade has ticked all the boxes since on his way back from that hamstring injury, and after training strongly with the main group on Wednesday, has done enough to reclaim his spot in the senior team.”
Rookie forward Louie Herbert and Timmy Sumner have been omitted from the 22, with the pair joining Clay Cameron as emergences.
Meanwhile, Rory Thompson will become the 17th SUNS player to celebrate 50 AFL games with the Gold Coast SUNS on Saturday.
Round 20 AFL Premiership Team
B: R. Thompson, S. May, G. Broughton
HB: K. Kolodjashnij, T. McKenzie, D. Swallow
C: J. Harbrow, D. Stanley, M. Shaw
HF: M. Rischitelli, T. Lynch, H. Bennell
F: J. Martin, S. Day, A. Hall
R: D. Gorringe, J. O’Meara, D. Prestia
INT: B. Matera, S. Lemmens, J. Lonergan, A. Sexton
Emergencies: T. Sumner, C. Cameron, L. Herbert
In: Matera, Kolodjashnij
Out: Herbert, Sumner (omitted)
