Cloke dogged in VFL comeback

WESTERN Bulldogs forward Travis Cloke marked his return to football with a starring performance for Footscray in the VFL yesterday, putting his hand up for an immediate recall to the AFL.

In his first game back since taking a break because of mental health issues, Cloke collected 22 disposals and kicked three goals to be among the Bulldogs’ best players.

In his best performance for the year, Cloke’s three goals all came in the first half of Footscray’s 49-point win over Sandringham at Trevor Barker Beach Oval. Cloke also spent some time in the ruck and finished with 13 hitouts.

Footscray coach Steve Grace said it was a great return for Cloke.

“I thought it was a strong performance, particularly not playing for a few weeks and knowing he has the world’s microscope on him,” he said.

“To be able to connect with his teammates and knuckle down and play some strong footy, I thought it was a fantastic effort.”

Dropped forward Tory Dickson, who has kicked just six goals from six AFL appearances this year, also booted three majors and spent time on the ball in the final term.

Luke Dunstan responded to his axing from the St Kilda team with a best afield performance for Sandringham.

The midfielder picked up 32 touches and kicked two goals to push his case for a possible recall for St Kilda’s Friday night clash against Essendon.

Tom Hickey was a late withdrawal for the Zebras and appears set to replace fellow ruckman Billy Longer, who has a tight hamstring from Saturday night’s win over Richmond.

Injury-prone midfielder Nathan Freeman was also a late withdrawal after stringing together 11 consecutive games.

However, Sandringham coach Lindsay Gilbee poured cold water on the last-minute change, suggesting Freeman’s omission was a “management issue”.

“He’ll be back next week, he’ll be fine,” Gilbee said.