Ken Hinkley Challenges Hawthorn to Target Zak Butters' Injured Ribs Ahead of AFL Semi-Final
Port Adelaide coach Ken Hinkley challenges Hawthorn to target star midfielder Zak Butters' injured ribs in their upcoming semi-final, emphasizing Butters' toughness. Despite criticism over his performance and early substitution due to injury, Hinkley defends both Butters and captain Connor Rozee, highlighting their resilience and the importance of teamwork in responding to public scrutiny. Hinkley remains confident in his strategic decisions regarding player placements.
Port Adelaide's head coach Ken Hinkley is confidently challenging Hawthorn to target the rib injury of star midfielder Zak Butters during their upcoming semi-final match on Friday night. Hinkley's remarks come following Butters' recent injury during a qualifying final against Geelong.
Ken Hinkley expresses confidence in Zak Butters' toughness
Hinkley openly encouraged Hawthorn to exploit Butters' injury, stating, "I say go for it". He emphasized Butters' reputation as a resilient player, asserting that he possesses the grit to withstand physical challenges, saying, "He won't take a step backwards". Butters suffered a rib injury and was substituted shortly after halftime during Port's significant 84-point loss to Geelong in the qualifying final.
Kane Cornes reacts to Butters' substitution
Former player Kane Cornes expressed surprise at the incident that led to Butters being substituted, highlighting the midfielder's typical combative nature. Cornes insisted that Butters should be able to persevere through injuries, especially during crucial finals matches, as his team struggled in the game against Geelong.
Hinkley defends captain Connor Rozee amid criticism
In addressing criticism directed at his captain, Connor Rozee, for a lackluster performance that resulted in just 16 disposals, Hinkley defended his player. He noted that criticism is a normal part of the sport, stating, "It's about the collective. It's the whole group that copped the criticism". Hinkley underscored that performance evaluation should encompass the entire team rather than singling out individuals.
Hinkley counters media scrutiny over Jason Horne-Francis' bench role
Hinkley also responded to critiques regarding his decision to start Jason Horne-Francis on the bench during the qualifying final. He acknowledged Horne-Francis had been utilized in this way for the preceding seven weeks, while questioning the reliability of media narratives surrounding such choices. Hinkley concluded by asserting the media should reassess their comments over the season for fairness.
Horne-Francis shares his perspective on benching
Speaking to 7NEWS Adelaide, Jason Horne-Francis shared his thoughts on starting from the bench, indicating he relishes the opportunity to enter the game after the initial intensity wanes. His perspective reinforces the strategic decision-making behind Hinkley's lineup choices.
