Webb’s return boosts battered Pies’ finals run in

IT’S yin and yang for Glenorchy as the skipper returns but an ex-Hawk is out with a hamstring strain.

Captain Brayden Webb’s return will be a welcome boost for the Magpies ahead of today’s crunch match against Launceston. But the club will be hopeful the loss of Zac Webster won’t damage its run to the finals.

Webb missed last round with an ankle sprain.

Coach Aaron Cornelius is hoping the midfielder will have no trouble facing the fifth-placed blues.

“He [Webb] will need to get through training before running out, but we’re hopeful that he’ll be right to go,” Cornelius said.

The Pies will also be relieved to have star playmaker Jaye Bowden available for the home clash after reports last week revealed a back complaint that threatened to sideline the utility.

Cornelius conceded that while the loss of Webster does hurt the Pies ahead of an impending finals series, he is confident that the star’s injury lay-off won’t be long-term.

“He [Webster] has been fantastic for us but unfortunately he injured his hamstring last week and didn’t play out the game,” he said. “Luckily we’ve got the bye next week which will mean he won’t miss too much footy, and should be back to face Clarence in a few weeks.”

Today’s game sees Glenorchy face a Blues outfit that Cornelius admits gave them a touch-up in its last encounter.

“They really taught us a lesson earlier in the season, so we’re looking forward to the challenge,” he said.

“They are very good on the ball and play a fast style which will be a test for us.”

The Pies are coming off a Round 17 loss to Lauderdale and will want a winning formula ahead of what the club labels a finals-like game.

“The last few rounds have felt like finals-type of football right across the league, now that the season is rounding out,” Cornelius said.

James Kitto is a UTas journalism student.