The medical room has produced some grim news for the West Coast Eagles in 2015, but finally it’s a more positive vibe with six players on the verge of resuming at WAFL or AFL level this week.
The headline story, of course, is Jack Darling but others closing in on a return include youngster Damien Cavka, who has not played at all this season, experienced wingman Matt Rosa, hard-edged midfielder Mark Hutchings, emerging ball magnet Dom Sheed and young utility player Dylan Main.
In addition, rookie Murray Newman, will be looking for a green light later in the week.
All of those players have been listed as “test” and provided they get through the training commitments of the week there is a strong chance they will be available.
Darling, who has been managed conservatively with a foot injury, has gradually increased his training loads over the last month and is looking sharp on the track. He looks excited as his imminent return looms.
Cavka, who broke 2km time trial records pre-season, has also had an interrupted campaign, but is a stickler for preparation and has expedited his return with a meticulous approach to his rehabilitation. He would likely return through East Perth.
Sheed, Rosa and Hutchings have been solid contributors this season, with Sheed missing the last fortnight because of a fractured hand, Rosa suffering a setback from a hamstring strain a couple of weeks ago and Hutchings withdrawing on the day of the St Kilda victory with a sore back referring through to his hamstring.
Main has had a back issue off-and-on all year, but is starting to get on top of it and with a full week on the track will resume for the Royals this weekend.
Unfortunately, it is never all blue sky out of the medical room and tough utility player Pat McGinnity suffered a fractured wrist in the closing minutes of the game against West Perth yesterday.
Arguably best on ground in that 48-point victory, he has been outstanding for the Royals and would likely have had a strong argument for a recall against North Melbourne in Hobart.
And another of the West Coast hard nuts, Simon Tunbridge, will miss the rest of the season. After initially hurting an ankle in the round two victory against Carlton it has been decided that there is also a need for shoulder surgery.
