Gotta’ love some game play

With the sun beating down on today’s session at Mineral Resources Park, hats, sunscreen and zinc were in high demand. After a standard warmup, followed by some tackling and skill execution drills, the team parted into two groups for two 20-minute halves of match simulation. As the 2025 season fast approaches, it’s exciting to see how the team is coming along, putting their hard work into action.

Whopper watch

It was a joy to see loveable larrikin Harvey ‘Whop’ Johnston participating in the match sim today. The second-year Eagle injured his elbow in November, which saw him confined to an arm brace for months. The youngster, who played six AFL games in his first year in the blue and gold, took a nice mark at the top of the square and slotted through a goal.

Hewett is heating up

After suffering foot problems for the entire 2024 season, no one is more enthusiastic about pre-season and match sim than Elijah Hewett. The dynamic midfielder was leading the way in running, drills and game play, and the young gun is amping up for a big season ahead.

Reid-ing the play

Archer Reid continues to impress this pre-season and was a standout in the game play. He positioned himself well in the forward line, used his big frame to make space on his opponent, and looked agile on the run. The 19-year-old took a strong mark on centre-wing, before sprinting to the goal square, taking another great grab, and converting the goal.

Tom looking tip-top

Young recruit Tom Gross showed plenty of fight in today’s session. The 18-year-old Oakleigh Chargers product had no trouble getting his hands on the ball, and really made the most of his opportunities. He delivered strong tackles, and kicked a lovely goal, looking effortless and natural with ball in hand.

Yeo under injury cloud

Unfortunately, midfield bull Elliot Yeo left the field during the second half of the match sim after getting pinned in a tackle. He will be sent for scans on his knee and ankle, with further details to come.