MELBOURNEfc will be bolstered by the return of Jared Rivers for this Sunday’s clash against the reigning premiers at Skilled Stadium.
Rivers only played three games in 2007, after a year which was derailed by frustrating injuries. He then underwent post-season groin surgery over the summer, and has recovered well. He has since been eased back into playing football through the VFL, and is now at 100% to resume playing at the AFL level.
Other inclusions named in the preliminary squad of 25 include Chris Johnson, Brent Moloney, James Frawley and recent senior listed elevation youngster Austin Woneamerirri.
Austin is a quick small forward, who is very effective in front of goals. He impressed in Melbourne’s NAB Cup and Challenge practice matches, with his forward line tackling pressure proving to be a highlight of his game. If Austin is selected, he will become MELBOURNEfc’s third debutant for 2008.
Austin's elevation was made possible because Jack Grimes has been placed on the long term injury list with a back complaint.
With the odds stacked against his team, Melbourne coach Dean Bailey says his side faces a big task. “It’s a great challenge for the Club, and a great challenge for our players. Geelong at Skilled Stadium is a tough assignment, but we’ll find out whether the players have got their heads switched on this week. You’ve got to go out there with the belief that you can win the game”, he said.
Jace Bode and Isaac Weetra have both been omitted from the team.
MELBOURNEfc will name its final team of 22 at 5:00 pm on Friday.
Melbourne Squad
Backs: P.Wheatley, N.Carroll, J.Rivers
Half backs: C.Bartram, D.Bell, L.Dunn
Centreline: B.Green, B.McLean, C. Sylvia
Half forwards: C.Bruce, B.Miller, P.Johnson
Forwards; A.Davey, D.Neitz, R.Robertson
Followers: J.White, J.McDonald, N.Jones
Interchange from: S.Buckley, J. Frawley, A.Wonaeamirri, C.Morton, C.Garland, C.Johnson, B.Moloney
Geelong Squad
Backs: Tom Harley - Matthew Scarlett – Josh Hunt
Half backs: Darren Milburn – Harry Taylor – Corey Enright
Centreline: Cameron Ling – Joel Selwood – Jimmy Bartel
Half forwards:Steve Johnson – Cameron Mooney – Paul Chapman
Forwards:Ryan Gamble – Tom Hawkins – Mathew Stokes
Followers:Mark Blake – Gary Ablett – Joel Corey
Interchange from: Trent West, Max Rooke, James Kelly, David Wojcinski, Brent Prismall, David Johnson, Shannon Byrnes
