AFL Injury News: Fremantle left sweating over skipper's fitness following Sunday's victory over Gold Coast
Fremantle captain Alex Pearce sustained a concerning injury during their Sunday match against the Gold Coast Suns. Pearce had an awkward landing on his left forearm during a marking contest with Gold Coast player Sam Day, causing his arm to hyperextend and forcing him off the field in the third quarter.
Fremantle is due for a highly anticipated matchup against the Sydney Swans at the SCG this Saturday and are nervously awaiting full details on Pearce’s injury.
The Dockers are seeking second opinions after the initial scans and seem desperate to keep their captain on the field. This is not surprising, considering Pearce’s presence has been key to their rise up the ladder. Their captain has led the team since the start of last season with the support of vice captains Andrew Brayshaw and Caleb Serong.
Fremantle coach Justin Longmuir spoke about Pearce’s injury.
“He's got a sore arm. It's all I can give you at the moment, we haven't had an update from the doc,” Longmuir said post-match.
“Clearly, he was worried about it coming off but I don't think the docs found anything clear-cut. So we'll have to wait and see how it pulls up and see whether it needs a scan.
“Not ruling Pearcey out … he's tough. Hopefully, there's no structural damage and hopefully we get some good news.”
Fremantle form in shambles following Captain Alex Pearce’s injury
Pearce has put up incredible performances this season, standing out as arguably the best defender in the league. His role in his team has covered the absence of key players like Oscar McDonald and Brennan Cox.
McDonald will not return to the field for another two months in order to recover from his knee injury. Cox, on the other hand, is due to return but Pearce's potential absence could stall his return for a while longer. Dockers coach Justin Longmuir has made it clear that bringing Cox in to play ahead of schedule is a risk the club isn't willing to take.
Pearce will likely be unavailable for the next match as fears rise concerning what might be multiple fractures in his forearm and elbow. This is bad news for Fremantle as they gear up to face the top of the ladder Sydney Swans.