The participation of young Western Bulldogs sensation Jamarra Ugle-Hagan in Sunday’s match against West Coast is uncertain after he underwent knee scans earlier this week.
To be eligible to play against the Eagles at Marvel Stadium, Ugle-Hagan must successfully complete Friday’s main training session without any issues. However, if the former No.1 draft pick is deemed unfit for Round 3, experienced ruck-forward Rory Lobb is expected to be on standby, according to Luke Beveridge’s plans.
Beveridge confirmed that Ugle-Hagan’s availability for the weekend remains uncertain and contingent upon receiving medical clearance.
“If he feels comfortable and completes today’s training session without any concerns, he will play. Otherwise, he will not,” Beveridge informed the media on Friday regarding Ugle-Hagan’s status.
Despite recent ankle troubles affecting five-time best and fairest winner and team captain Marcus Bontempelli, Beveridge expressed confidence in his participation on Sunday.
For Round 3, the Dogs have had to make two changes due to injuries, with Nick Coffield (shoulder) and Ed Richards (concussion) both ruled out. As part of Beveridge’s expanded 26-player squad, there are five potential inclusions, including three-time All-Australian Jack Macrae. Macrae’s inclusion appears likely following his recovery from preseason injuries and an outstanding performance of 47 disposals and 17 clearances in the VFL last week.
Beveridge confirmed Macrae’s selection for the clash against the Eagles and stated that he will not be the substitute player, given his recent form and the team’s injury situation.
Macrae is anticipated to feature prominently in midfield, albeit possibly with less focus on inside midfield duties compared to previous outings.
“You can’t overlook a player who performed at Jack’s level last week, especially considering our injury situation,” Beveridge emphasized.
In addition to Macrae, Lobb, James O’Donnell, Riley Garcia, and Taylor Duryea have been named on the Dogs’ eight-man interchange, alongside Sam Darcy, Caleb Daniel, and Caleb Poulter. The club will finalize its bench at 5:00 pm (AEDT) on Friday.
Although Lobb is unlikely to displace Ugle-Hagan, Aaron Naughton, or Darcy in the starting lineup, he is vying for a potential role as a rotational reinforcement.
