South Barwon will be without impressive defender Blair Huggins for up to 12 months after scans confirmed a ruptured anterior cruciate ligament.
Huggins, who earned a spot on the list of VFL club Northern Bullants ahead of the 2025 season, also damaged his posterior cruciate ligament, medial collateral ligament, and meniscus during last week’s win over St Albans at St Albans Reserve.
“Blair had a really good season last year,” coach Mark Neeld said.
“Playing as a third tall, running defender, he caught the eye of some VFL scouts.
“He’s only a young fella, so he’ll be back.
“But right now he’s going through the anguish knowing that he’s not going to play footy for 12 months and he’s got rehab ahead of him.”
Huggins wasn’t the only injury concern for South Barwon, with Geelong VFL-listed duo Oscar Pollock (knee) and Ethan Borys (calf) also sidelined.
However, big man Ben Kellett returns from making his second appearance for reigning VFL premier Werribee, and Dustin Burns has been recalled from the reserves after a nine-goal effort last week.
Lewis Page will play his first senior game since late 2023.
X: @krockfootball
