PEEL Thunder will be without key running player Brady Grey, who has been selected to Fremantle’s 22 to play Carlton, when they take on Claremont at Medibank Stadium this weekend.
Grey will play his second game for Fremantle after debuting in round 23 against Port Adelaide last season.
The backman/midfielder has been a key in Peel Thunder’s two wins this season, providing good dash through the middle with the ability to play a lock-down role.
In his debut match last season, Grey tallied 20 disposals, three marks and three tackles in defence.
A similar role can be expected against Carlton, with him being the likely replacement for Garrick Ibbotson, who is out of the match.
Youngster Ed Langdon was also left out of the Fremantle side, and will likely return to the field for Peel Thunder.
Langdon’s return to Peel would be a welcome one, with his speed and defensive pressure providing the Thunder with a game-breaking ability.
Darcy Tucker will make his Fremantle debut against Carlton.
The first-round draft pick played two games for the Thunder this season and is one of few first-year players to get an early regular-season game under Ross Lyon.
Tucker has been heralded for his speed and ball-use, something the Dockers desperately need.
He was solid in his first two matches for Peel Thunder but more will be expected at the elite level.
Zac Clarke was also named to Fremantle’s side, while Nick Suban was left out.
If Ibbotson and Suban are forced to return to Fremantle’s side through Peel, the Thunder will have a serious edge as the duo bring 288 games of AFL experience to the WAFL side.
The Thunder play Claremont on Saturday, with the bounce scheduled for 2.15pm.
