Optimism over O’Neill’s injury

GUN onballer Mitch O’Neill’s season might be over because of a knee injury, but Tasmania Devils coach Adrian Fletcher says it will not harm his chances in the AFL draft.

The Devils’ most prolific ball-winner damaged his PCL in a marking contest early in the loss to top-of-the-ladder Eastern Ranges in Launceston last Saturday.

O’Neill will miss the Devils’ clash with second-placed Gippsland Power in Melbourne today.

The result of his scans yesterday will decide whether or not he can play in the Devils’ remaining three games.

“We are hoping the best for him,” Devils coach Fletcher said yesterday.

“We think it’s going to be good news but until he gets the results of his scan we can’t be sure.

“He’s had a really good campaign and we’ll do whatever is best for him.”

Fletcher is certain the injury will not harm O’Neill’s draft hopes. “Not at all,” he said. As well as losing O’Neill, the Devils were dealt a savage blow with their main goal kicker Jackson Callow sidelined for a compulsory break to rest a battle-weary body.

And midfielder Isaac Chugg copped a three-match suspension for collision with Ranger James Ross.

The loss of Callow has forced a forward line restructure.

“He’s a 17-year-old and he’s had some sore spots for a while so for his health and safety we’ve given him the week off to rejuvenate his body,” Fletcher said.

In come Australian under-16 All-Australian Sam Banks, along Harry Ireland, Ollie Sanders and Connor Riethoff.