Big Sandy’s back to feed Freo smalls

FREMANTLE is rolling the dice in a bid to end its eightgame Western Derby losing run, naming Aaron Sandilands for tomorrow night’s clash with West Coast.

Sandilands has not played in more than a year because of calf issues, but was named to return alongside fellow ruckman Rory Lobb (foot fracture).

Travis Colyer and Mitchell Crowden also return among four changes, while Bailey Banfield (axed), Brett Bewley (axed), Brennan Cox (hip), and Sean Darcy (rested) go out.

The inclusion of Sandilands after so long out is a big risk, but is seen as vital as Fremantle attempt to curb the ruck power of Nic Naitanui and Tom Hickey. The Eagles welcome back star defenders Jeremy McGovern (suspension) and Tom Barrass (calf).

Premiership defender Will Schofield was dropped, while Mark Hutchings goes out with a hamstring injury.

Adelaide again dropped misfiring recruit Bryce Gibbs, this time for tomorrow night’s showdown against Port Adelaide. David Mackay, Wayne Milera and Josh Jenkins all return, with the Crows swinging the axe on Gibbs, Ben Davis and Elliott Himmelberg.

The power recalled Tom Rockliff following his 57-disposal effort in the SANFL, while Karl Amon, Dougal Howard and veteran Justin Westhoff were also brought back in. Willem Drew, Kane Farrell, Joel Garner and Peter Ladhams were all dropped in the wake of the 25-point loss to the Bulldogs.

Hawthorn welcomes back Mitchell Lewis and captain Ben Stratton for tonight’s clash with Collingwood.

The Magpies lost Ben Reid (calf) and Levi Greenwood (back) to injury, while Travis Varcoe was dropped.

Magpies forward Jamie Elliott and James Aish return, with Isaac Quaynor named for his AFL debut.

The Bombers lost Tom Bellchambers to a calf injury for tomorrow’s clash with Sydney at the SCG, and axed Kyle Langford and Josh Begley.

Zac Clarke, Jake Stringer, and Matt Guelfi were named to return. The Swans lost Callum Sinclair to a shoulder injury, meaning defender Aliir Aliir could be forced to ruck for long periods.

Richmond named Derek Eggmolesse-Smith for his debut in place of Josh Caddy (leg) for tomorrow’s clash with Gold Coast.

The Bulldogs replaced Caleb Daniel (hamstring) with Toby McLean for tomorrow night’s clash with Geelong.

Former Blue Sam Rowe could make his debut for St Kilda in Sunday’s match against North Melbourne in Hobart after being named in the extended squad.