Fremantle Dockers defender Brandon Walker has emerged as a concern after sustaining an injury during Peel Thunder's heart-wrenching one-point loss to Subiaco in the WAFL on the weekend.
The young Docker, who has been building towards a potential AFL debut, was forced from the field in the final quarter of the tightly contested match at Fremantle Oval. Walker appeared to injure his left leg while contesting a marking duel and immediately grabbed at his hamstring before being attended to by club medical staff.
Peel Thunder ultimately fell short by a solitary point, with Subiaco securing a thrilling 11.12 (78) to 11.11 (77) victory. The result was a bitter pill to swallow for the Thunder, who had led for much of the contest but were unable to hold on in the closing stages.
Walker's injury adds to Fremantle's defensive woes
Walker's injury comes at an inopportune time for Fremantle, who are already dealing with several injury concerns in their backline. The 20-year-old has been a consistent performer for Peel this season, averaging 18 disposals and five marks per game, and his form had placed him firmly in the selection frame for the Dockers' senior side.
Fremantle's medical staff will assess the severity of the injury in the coming days. Early indications suggest it may be a hamstring strain, which could sideline Walker for several weeks depending on the grade.
Dockers coach Justin Longmuir has been monitoring Walker's progress closely and had recently praised his development. "Brandon's been really consistent for Peel and he's putting his hand up for selection," Longmuir said earlier this month. "He's got good speed and uses the ball well, so we're excited about what he can bring."
Peel Thunder's narrow defeat
Despite the loss, Peel Thunder showed plenty of fight against a strong Subiaco outfit. The Lions, who are perennial WAFL contenders, were made to work hard for their victory. Peel led by 12 points at three-quarter time but could not withstand a final-term surge from the visitors.
Peel coach Cam Shepherd was proud of his team's effort but lamented the missed opportunities. "We had our chances to put the game away but we didn't take them, and against a quality side like Subiaco you get punished," Shepherd said post-match. "The boys are disappointed, but we'll learn from it and move on."
Key forward Sam Sturt was among Peel's best, booting three goals, while ruckman Lloyd Meek also impressed with 38 hit-outs and 16 disposals. However, the focus will now turn to Walker's fitness and whether he will be available for selection in the coming rounds.
Fremantle's next AFL match is against the Western Bulldogs at Marvel Stadium on Sunday, and while Walker was not expected to be rushed into the side, the injury could delay his debut further. The Dockers have several other young defenders in the mix, including Nathan O'Driscoll and Heath Chapman, who have already made their mark at the top level.
The club will provide an update on Walker's condition later this week, with scans likely to determine the extent of the damage. For now, Fremantle fans will be hoping the injury is not serious and that the promising defender can return to action soon.
