Written by Megan Taylor, sports reporter covering international sports since 2020
Sean Darcy AFL return plans are set to be decided later this week, with Fremantle Dockers coach Justin Longmuir indicating the ruckman is close to coming back after his latest calf injury.
Darcy has spent three weeks in the WAFL, with a bye in between, and impressed for Peel Thunder Football Club with two goals and 16 disposals against East Perth Football Club. The decision matters because Fremantle Football Club are chasing a 14th straight win and must balance Darcy’s return with Luke Jackson’s strong form.
For more Fremantle contract news, read Fremantle Dockers contract extensions: Corey Wagner and Charlie Nicholls sign new deals for AFL club, while official AFL fixtures are available through the Australian Football League website.
Darcy Pushes Selection Case
Longmuir told Channel Seven that Darcy had taken another strong step at WAFL level.
“He took another good step forward on the weekend at Peel, played with the right intensity and had a really good match-up which will prepare him for AFL footy as well,” he said.
“We’ll have a chat later in the week on whether he returns this week or if it’s one more week.”
Darcy’s case has been helped by Mason Cox struggling to lock down the second ruck role behind Jackson.
Jackson Form Shapes Call
Longmuir said Fremantle must be careful not to disturb Jackson’s rhythm as the season moves toward its later stages.
“We need to make sure we don’t play Jacko out of form, which I don’t think is going to happen, to make sure he’s right come the back end of the year when the really important stuff is played,” he said.
“We need to find a balance with that, and whether that’s with Sean or Mason on the side, we’ll strike that balance.”
Fremantle Dockers could have all 44 players available this weekend, with Sam Sturt the only player still listed as a test.
Gold Coast Suns will be without Daniel Rioli after he suffered a broken jaw against Hawthorn Football Club. Wil Powell could return from a shoulder injury as the Suns prepare for Sunday’s Optus Stadium clash.