Western Bulldogs

Dogs dealt injury blow, star duo shake off concerns

A trio of Bulldogs were left hindered in the early stages of Sunday’s must-win game, with one subbed out.

Published by
Frank Seal

The Western Bulldogs copped some early concerns in their finals-clinching clash with GWS, being forced to activate their sub early while some stars battle early knocks.

Forward Laitham Vandermeer was inconveniently subbed early in the match complaining of hamstring tightness, bringing Arthur Jones into the lineup during the opening term.

It's the latest soft-tissue setback for the pacey Bulldog, who has battled multiple issues across the past few seasons.

Coach Luke Beveridge confirmed after the game that Vandermeer will undergo scans, with the Dogs hopeful the 25-year-old has avoided a significant setback.

"We're gonna have to get a scan. I wouldn't have thought he's blow [his hamstring]," Beveridge told media.

"It might be a minor injury. We'll get (the latest) to you as soon as we get the result."

Star midfielder Adam Treloar was briefly assessed for a tight calf during the opening term but has since returned in his padded left leg.

Beveridge said Treloar's issue was a concern but remained positive post-match as the former Magpie and Giant was able to see out the game.

One potentially controversial incident involved skipper Marcus Bontempelli, who left the field following a pretty nasty head clash with Giant Tom Green.

The initial head knock looked a substantial blow, with a second glancing blow following as Green hit the turf, though the captain fortunately received the tick of approval to continue.

These incidents followed a separate concern, with key back Liam Jones being penalised for a dangerous tackle on Giant youngster Aaron Cadman which could see some MRO scrutiny.

The forward did get to his feet quickly and take his set shot without hindrance, but Jones will face a nervous wait ahead of the Bulldogs hopeful finals berth.

2024-08-25T02:30:00Z
Mars Stadium
WB
98
FT
61
GWS
Published by
Frank Seal