News

Knights to make multiple changes

Wednesday, 2 April 2008
Staff writers for essendonfc.com.au
Page 1 of 1

Matthew Knights will make at least two forced changes to the Essendon side ahead of a blockbuster clash between traditional rivals this Saturday night at the MCG.

Speedy midfielder Courtenay Dempsey has been ruled out of the match with a slight hamstring strain, while Nathan Lovett-Murray is likely to miss the match due to groin soreness, but Knights would not give too much away when quizzed on who might come into the side.

“We will make our final decision after a hard hit-out at training today,” Knights said.

“It was obviously disappointing to lose Dempsey and given Nathan missed a few matches last year with a groin injury, we don’t really want to take any chances and we will look at him closely today.

“Andrew Welsh is a possibility to come in. He was impressive last week, kicking five goals for Bendigo but he only played 60 minutes of football so he will have to prove to me today that he can get through a strong session of football.

"I’m not in the business of putting players out there if they are not fully fit.”

Andrew Lovett and Angus Monfries, both still yet to break into the senior side this season, could also be in the selection mix.

The Bombers struggled with tall marking options up forward last week, so Courtney Johns could be another option brought in to patch the hole left by the absence of Scott Lucas.

“I think our forward entries last week weren’t great as a whole,” Knights said.

“Matthew Lloyd was given a very tough opponent last week and knowing him, he will bounce back this week.

“Courtney Johns, Jay Neagle and Scott Gumbleton are all options from a bigger picture perspective. Scott Lucas is going to be out for 10-12 so they are all going to get opportunities over the coming weeks if they are able to present themselves.”

If history between the two sides is anything to go by, this week’s match is guaranteed to thrill and Knights can’t wait to get a taste of the big game atmosphere.

“Essendon and Carlton have always had a great rivalry and it is exciting to be part of it this week,” Knights said.

“They are generally very big games and I am very much looking forward to the challenge. There are two young teams that are really going to go at it at the MCG this week so it is very exciting.”

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