THE Northern Blues are set to welcome back a number of AFL-listed players for Sunday’s curtain raiser at the MCG.
In a very extended squad of 31, the Blues have named Michael Gibbons, Hugh Goddard, Matthew Kennedy, Mitch McGovern, Andrew Phillips, Angus Schumacher (the sole confirmed inclusion) and Dale Thomas.
Schumacher will return to his customary role in defence with Northern, after being a late inclusion to the AFL squad last week for his senior debut.
Phillips could join the ruck connection of Tom De Koning and Matthew Lobbe, with the trio likely to rotate through the middle and up forward.
James El Moussalli, Chris McCabe and Marcus Stavrou round out the potential inclusions, having been named on an extended bench.
Kym Lebois will not be eligible for selection this week, with the forward likely to miss 1-2 weeks due to a minor hamstring injury. Kane Keppel has been omitted.
Sunday's game will be a double-header against Richmond at the MCG, with the clash between the respective AFL sides to follow.
After a difficult loss to Collingwood last weekend, the Blues will be aiming for a strong comeback against the Tigers.
The Blues are looking to keep their season alive, being only one game outside of the top eight. A win over top-of-the-table Richmond will put Northern back in contention for a finals spot.
The VFL game kicks off at 11.50am, with the AFL game to follow at 3.20pm.
For those wishing to attend, please note that you will need a valid ticket to the AFL game: a VFL membership will not grant you entry into Sunday’s game.
VFL Round 19
Northern Blues v Richmond
Sunday 11 August, 11:50am
MCG
Double-header information available here
IN: James El Moussalli, Michael Gibbons, Hugh Goddard, Matthew Kennedy, Chris McCabe, Mitch McGovern, Andrew Phillips, Angus Schumacher, Marcus Stavrou, Dale Thomas
OUT: Kym Lebois (hamstring), Kane Keppel
