Dawson a long shot to revive AFL career
Jul 11, 2017 - 7:16 AM He's been Josh Kennedy's nemesis in the past, but don't expect Fremantle veteran Zac 'Attack' Dawson to earn a recall for Sunday's derby against West Coast.The Eagles' forward stocks are set to receive a major boost with the return of Kennedy from a calf injury.
In contrast, Fremantle are sweating on the fitness of key defender Joel Hamling, after a hip injury in last week's win over North Melbourne.
Hamling shapes as the perfect match-up for Kennedy.
But if Hamling is ruled out, the Dockers might be forced to dig deep into their reserves, especially if the Eagles load up on talls in attack.
Sam Collins, dropped after just one lacklustre match this season, shapes as a frontrunner to earn a recall if Fremantle want to bolster their big-man stocks in defence.
After that, Fremantle's key defensive stocks run thin - with Dawson the only notable name left.
Dawson played in the opening two matches of the season before being axed as Fremantle finally embraced their rebuilding theme.
The 166-game veteran has fallen so far down the pecking order, he's playing mostly as a forward for WAFL outfit Peel Thunder.
Dawson has booted six goals from 10 games this season, and is almost certain to be overlooked for Sunday's derby.
Fremantle midfielder Nick Suban, set to notch his 150-game milestone this weekend, said Dawson had been handling the situation well.
"Zac's been extremely positive. He's definitely helping our young group at the moment," Suban said.
"We've got a lot of young backs coming through, and he's really set the standard on the track and in the meetings for those guys.
"He's really teaching them the way to prepare and approach AFL footy.
"He's been first class. Him playing forward, it's a bit different. But he's loving it. He's been terrific down at Peel in that role."
Suban's AFL career also appeared over after being dropped with Dawson and four other teammates following the round-two loss to Port Adelaide.
But the 27-year-old made the most of his recall three weeks ago, embracing his new role as a run-with player.
Suban is out of contract at season's end, and has another seven rounds to prove he is worth a new deal.
"There's no pressure," Suban said.
"I'm here to help the young guys, and they're here to help me as well.
"It's an exciting place to be around at the moment. I'd love to be here still."
Source: AAP
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