Geelong Confirms Tom Hawkins and Cam Guthrie Ruled Out for AFL Preliminary Final Against Brisbane
Geelong coach Chris Scott announced that veterans Tom Hawkins and Cam Guthrie will not play in the AFL preliminary final against Brisbane due to fitness concerns. Despite their efforts to recover from injuries, neither player has been deemed ready for the match. However, Scott noted that they could potentially be available for future games, keeping hopes alive for their return as the season progresses.
Geelong's coach Chris Scott has announced that key players Tom Hawkins and Cam Guthrie will not participate in the upcoming AFL preliminary final against Brisbane. Both veterans faced injuries this season and have been striving to regain fitness before the end of their careers.
Injuries Keep Hawkins and Guthrie Out of the Preliminary Final
Chris Scott confirmed that Tom Hawkins and Cam Guthrie were not fit to play in the crucial match against Brisbane. Hawkins, a three-time premiership player, suffered a significant mid-foot injury during Round 15, which raised concerns about the conclusion of his illustrious career. Meanwhile, Guthrie had difficulty with a quad injury sustained during the first pre-season game, and despite appearing in four games mid-season, he has continued to deal with an Achilles tendon problem.
Challenges in Returning to Competitive Football
Both players made their return to competitive football during a VFL semi-final, yet Scott indicated that their training levels were not sufficient for senior selection. He remarked that although Hawkins and Guthrie had made significant strides in their recovery, they were not quite ready to rejoin the team for the preliminary final. Scott emphasized the tough nature of the decision but remained optimistic about their potential availability for future games.
Geelong's Squad Dynamics Ahead of the Match
Scott is currently evaluating the final roster, and defender Sam De Koning is also in contention for a return following his recovery. Jeremy Cameron, key forward for the Cats, praised the team's revamped attack and expressed confidence in the depth of the squad. Geelong has managed to score over 100 points in several games without Hawkins, demonstrating the adaptability and performance of other players like Shannon Neale and Shaun Mannagh.
Cameron's Insights on Team Balance and Player Contributions
Cameron highlighted the importance of balancing roles within the team, noting that players like Shannon Neale have emerged as significant contributors. He pointed out that the versatility of the squad allows them to adjust strategies in high-pressure situations. Additionally, Cameron acknowledged Hawkins's dedication as he navigates recovery throughout the season, marking the emotional toll of potentially missing a Grand finale.
Possible Returns to Strengthen the Team
As the team prepares for the preliminary final, Tom Stewart's return from hamstring tightness appears likely, adding strength to the lineup. Cameron noted Stewart's importance to the team and expressed excitement about the prospect of his participation in the upcoming game. The dynamics of the Geelong team are promising, with several players stepping up and the potential for key veterans to make a comeback in the near future.
