Melbourne has named its side to take on Carlton in Wednesday night’s AAMI Community Series match.
The Demons have welcomed some key names into the 30-man squad, including the ever-reliable Christian Salem, who will line up for the official practice match at IKON Park.
The 28-year-old featured towards the backend of Melbourne’s match simulation with Richmond earlier this month and, having got through unscathed, will join the extended line-up.
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Tom McDonald has also been added, overcoming some tightness, while Melbourne fans will get another look at former Saint Jack Billings and draftees Caleb Windsor, Koltyn Tholstrup and Kynan Brown, after all impressed in the hit-out against the Tigers.
Missing from the action will be Shane McAdam and Lachie Hunter, who are working through respective calf niggles, and Harry Petty, who is rehabbing a toe concern.
Melbourne GM of AFL Performance Alan Richardson provided an update on the Dees’ No.35.
“As noted ahead of the Richmond match, Harrison had been experiencing some soreness in his toe, which was impacting his ability to build up his training loads,” Richardson said.
“While he has been progressing through his rehab, he hasn’t been able to integrate back with the main group just yet, so will sit out of this week’s game.
“We will continue to monitor Harrison and see how he responds, in the lead-up to our season-opener.”
Josh Schache, Jacob van Rooyen and Adam Tomlinson will provide some height for the Dees, while Matthew Jefferson and Blake Howes will get an opportunity to showcase their pre-season work at either end of the ground.
Meanwhile, Clayton Oliver has been named to play in the club’s VFL practice match on Thursday morning.
Having featured for three quarters against the Tigers, Richardson said the structured approach was taking long-term goals into account.
“Clayton has been tracking really well, which, first and foremost, is great to see,” Richardson said.
“He’s been working on building his fitness back up, but also getting himself up to speed on game plan structures and specifics.
“We want to set Clayton up for a really strong and successful season, so will continue to work accordingly to give him the best opportunity to achieve this.”
Tom Fullarton will also take part in the VFL clash, on return from a hamstring strain, as will Taj Woewodin and Marty Hore.
While the VFL match will be closed to the public, fans can follow along for updates on the club’s digital channels.
2024 AAMI COMMUNITY SERIES DETAILS:
Date: Wednesday 28 February
Time: 6:30pm – 10:30pm
Gates: Open from 5:30pm
Entry: Your entry gate will be detailed on your ticket (4, 5 or 6)
Ticketing: Supporters can purchase tickets here. Members will also be able to scan in with their memberships, however seating availability is subject to capacity. It is encouraged that members upgrade their entry to guarantee a seat.
Streaming: For those who can't make the trip to IKON Park, the match will be broadcast live on Kayo Sports and Foxtel. Get access to Kayo as part of your 2024 Digital Membership, available here.
Parking: IKON Park is limited to street parking. We recommend coming early to secure a park close to Gate 6 and utilising public transport where possible.
Tram: No. 19 Tram (City-North Coburg) runs from the city to Royal Parade Walker St / Stop 16, then 3 minutes walk to IKON Park.
Train: Take the Upfield Line to Royal Park Station, then a 13-minute walk to IKON Park.
Bus: Route 123 Bus to Walker St / Stop 16, then a 3-minute walk from IKON Park.
