Tim Kelly

Second Eagle in doubt for Saints clash after West Coast lose star midfielder

The Eagles have been forced into a change to their squad for Saturday’s game, and another could be on the way.

Published by
Mitch Keating

West Coast have suffered a selection blow on the eve of their meeting with St Kilda, with midfielder Tim Kelly ruled out of the contest due to a hip injury while forward Jake Waterman could also be a late out.

The Eagles confirmed the change on Friday afternoon, with Kelly to be replaced in Adam Simpson's 23-man side by fringe onballer Zane Trew.

Trew's inclusion will see the 22-year-old play his seventh game for the club and first since Round 23 last year, with the midfielder earning a reprieve after a 36-disposal outing in the WAFL last week against Claremont.

The late selection swap sees the Eagles make their fifth change for the clash against the Saints.

Recruit Matt Flynn was named on Thursday for his first game in the royal blue and gold, having dealt with a hamstring injury to start his career in Perth.

PERTH, AUSTRALIA - APRIL 09: Christian Petracca of the Demons tackles Tim Kelly of the Eagles during the round four AFL match between West Coast Eagles and Melbourne Demons at Optus Stadium, on April 09, 2023, in Perth, Australia. (Photo by Paul Kane/Getty Images)

Flynn was joined by Andrew Gaff, Jack Petruccelle and Harry Edwards in coming into Simpson's side, with Jayden Hunt, Jack Williams, Josh Rotham and Tyrell Dewar all making way.

Dewar has been named as an emergency following Trew's return to the side, with Williams and Jai Culley also on standby.

Williams could be required if the in-form Waterman is a late out, with 9 News Perth reporting the West Coast spearhead is in some doubt due to a recent shoulder concern.

It is understood that Waterman underwent scans on the issue following an incident at training this week, and could be pulled from Simpson's side.

PERTH, AUSTRALIA - MAY 04: Jake Waterman of the Eagles celebrates a goal during the round eight AFL match between West Coast Eagles and Essendon Bombers at Optus Stadium, on May 04, 2024, in Perth, Australia. (Photo by Paul Kane/Getty Images)

It is likely a decision on Waterman will be made closer to Saturday's opening bounce, with final teams to be named an hour out from the game's commencement.

The Eagles host the Saints at Optus Stadium on Saturday at 2:35pm local time as they chase their fourth win of 2024.

2024-06-01T06:35:00Z
Optus Stadium
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Published by
Mitch Keating