Fremantle Dockers Maintain Unchanged Lineup for Third Straight Game
The Fremantle Dockers have opted for consistency, naming an unchanged lineup for their third consecutive match as they prepare to face Collingwood in the AFL's Gather Round. This decision comes on the heels of a thrilling 2-point victory over the Adelaide Crows at Adelaide Oval, where the Dockers will return for this highly anticipated clash.
Collingwood Recall Big Guns for Gather Round Showdown
In contrast, Collingwood have made three significant changes to their squad, recalling star players Nick Daicos and Scott Pendlebury. Daicos, who was dramatically withdrawn just minutes before their previous game against Brisbane, has been cleared to play, bolstering the Pies' midfield. Pendlebury's return adds further experience and leadership to the lineup.
Key Changes for Both Teams
- Fremantle's only adjustments see Karl Worner and Corey Wagner promoted to starting roles, with Matt Johnson and Judd McVee moving to the bench. McVee impressed with a career-high 23 disposals in the win over the Crows.
- Collingwood will also unveil debutant Angus Anderson, a first-year draftee selected at pick No.57 in last year's draft. Coach Craig McRae highlighted Anderson's strengths in contest and clearance play, noting Fremantle's top ranking in these areas.
- Notable omissions for Collingwood include Ed Allan, son of Fremantle great Ed Allan, along with Lachie Sullivan and Will Hayes.
Match Details and Team Lineups
The clash is scheduled for Friday at Adelaide Oval, with a 5.40pm start time. Collingwood will be looking to rebound after a loss to Brisbane, while Fremantle aim to build on their recent success and secure another four points in the AFL standings.
Collingwood Squad: B: B Frampton, J Howe, B Maynard; HB: D Houston, J Daicos, H Perryman; C: R Steele, A Anderson, S Sidebottom; HF: B McCreery, J De Goey, L Schultz; F: J Elliott, T Membrey, D McStay; FOLL: O Steene, N Daicos, N Long; I/C: P Lipinski, I Quaynor, S Pendlebury, D Cameron, J Crisp; EMG: W Parker, J Buller, W Hayes; IN: A Anderson, N Daicos, S Pendlebury; OUT: L Sullivan, W Hayes, E Allan (all omitted).
Fremantle Squad: B: B Cox, A Pearce, H Chapman; HB: J Clark, L Ryan, K Worner; C: J O’Meara, A Brayshaw, C Wagner; HF: S Bolton, M Reid, S Sitkowski; F: J Amiss, J Treacy, P Voss; FOLL: S Darcy, L Jackson, C Serong; I/C: C Scerri, I Dudley, N Erasmus, M Johnson, J McVee; EMG: M Cox, B Banfield, N O’Driscoll.
This Gather Round fixture promises to be a compelling battle, with Fremantle's steady approach pitted against Collingwood's reinforced lineup. Fans can expect intense action as both teams vie for crucial points in the early stages of the AFL season.
