West Coast captain Luke Shuey is set to return in subsequent Sunday’s blockbuster against the Western Bulldogs, after impressing in his first WAFL sport in additional than a decade.
Shuey helped lead the Eagles’ reserves to an exciting five-point win over Subiaco at Leederville Oval, their first victory of the season, having 22 touches and 7 marks in an brisk outing throughout 67 minutes of sport time.
He is set to be joined by Tim Kelly, Jeremy McGovern and Brad Sheppard as inclusions for West Coast. The Eagles are making ready to unleash their most popular centre sq. set-up – comprising Nic Naitanui, Shuey, Kelly and Elliot Yeo – for the primary time since spherical 11 final season.
Joining celebrations within the reserves dressing room was banned ahead Willie Rioli, who was amongst a big group of gamers who got here to help the WAFL facet on the senior crew’s bye weekend.
Rioli was warmly embraced by teammates through the afternoon, some who noticed him for the primary time in almost 18 months, and he fortunately posed for selfies with followers.
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Rioli’s coaching ban lifts on Sunday, marking the beginning of a nine-week pre-season program the Eagles hope may have him out there for choice when his two-year doping suspension lifts on August 20.
West Coast reserves coach Daniel Pratt stated the eight-day break earlier than the match against the Dogs ought to allow a great preparation for Shuey’s first AFL sport in 12 weeks.
The Norm Smith medallist has not performed at senior stage since struggling a hamstring tendon harm in spherical three.
“He looked like he was almost back to full fitness today, even with the long lay-off he’s had,” Pratt stated.
“He was pretty handy as well, he had some good moments. I’d assume if he pulls up well that he’ll be available and play.
“But if he needs to tick some other boxes, we’ll see what happens during the week. He looks pretty good at the moment.”
Pratt stated the day was vital for Rioli’s soccer reintegration.
“It’s great to get him back into the club and it’s probably a good environment for him to come down and watch today and touch base with a few of the boys again,” he stated.
“I think the best environment for him to be in now is probably around the boys and the club. I’m sure there’s few things that we’ve got to work through in the next couple of days, but we’re looking forward to having him back.”
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