Suns forced into new youth policy
FIRST-YEAR Suns Charlie Ballard and Brayden Crossley will be thrown to the Dogs after the Gold Coast made five changes ahead of their clash in Ballarat tomorrow.
Ballard and Crossley have been called into the side to cover injured co-captains Tom Lynch (knee) and Steven May (finger).
Ballard will start in the forward pocket against the Western Bulldogs.
“He’s been really consistent and probably his flexibility also helps his selection given he can play forward, mid or back,” Suns coach Stuart Dew told goldcoastfc.com.au.
“We just thought with our side this week we need a bit of flexibility and Charlie brings that.
“It’s really exciting for him and his family to watch him play his first game.”
Crossley is listed on the interchange and expected to rotate through the forward line.
“With Tom’s (Lynch) injury we saw fit to bring him in,” Dew said. “Obviously he can play forward and ruck but the main thing is he competes really hard.”
Brayden Fiorini (leg stress fracture) and Jesse Lonergan (knee) have also been ruled out through injury.
Callum Ah Chee returns after a stint in the NEAFL and will be joined by Brad Scheer, who will play his first senior game of the year.
Michael Rischitelli returns after one week on the sidelines.
Meanwhile, Suns star Pearce Hanley was yesterday transferred to the long-term injury list.
The Irishman has been struggling since dislocating his shoulder for the second time in Round 3 against Fremantle.
The Suns are yet to nominate to transfer a player from the rookie list to replace him.