Mason Cox to Make Fremantle Debut in Western Derby, Replacing Injured Sean Darcy
Fremantle Dockers coach Justin Longmuir has confirmed that former Collingwood ruckman Mason Cox will make his debut for the club in the upcoming Western Derby against the West Coast Eagles. The 35-year-old American replaces Sean Darcy, who is sidelined with a concussion. Longmuir has encouraged Cox to maintain his characteristic confidence and swagger, traits he has displayed during training and WAFL matches where he averaged 39.5 hitouts. The Dockers will employ a two-pronged ruck strategy featuring Cox and Luke Jackson. Additionally, star midfielder Hayden Young returns to the lineup after recovering from a hamstring strain, having impressed in reserve grade games. Forward Michael Fredrick also returns from an ankle injury. However, the team faces a setback with Jaeger O’Meara ruled out for an extended period due to facial fractures sustained in training. On the opposition side, West Coast Eagles will be missing midfielder Deven Robertson for the season due to an ACL injury, while Jack Graham is out for approximately two months following shoulder surgery. This high-stakes local rivalry match highlights significant roster changes for both Perth-based AFL teams.
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Mason Cox to Make Fremantle Debut in Western Derby, Replacing Injured Sean Darcy
Fremantle Dockers coach Justin Longmuir has confirmed that former Collingwood ruckman Mason Cox will make his debut for the club in the upcoming Western Derby against the West Coast Eagles. The 35-year-old American replaces Sean Darcy, who is sidelined with a concussion. Longmuir has encouraged Cox to maintain his characteristic confidence and swagger, traits he has displayed during training and WAFL matches where he averaged 39.5 hitouts. The Dockers will employ a two-pronged ruck strategy featuring Cox and Luke Jackson. Additionally, star midfielder Hayden Young returns to the lineup after recovering from a hamstring strain, having impressed in reserve grade games. Forward Michael Fredrick also returns from an ankle injury. However, the team faces a setback with Jaeger O’Meara ruled out for an extended period due to facial fractures sustained in training. On the opposition side, West Coast Eagles will be missing midfielder Deven Robertson for the season due to an ACL injury, while Jack Graham is out for approximately two months following shoulder surgery. This high-stakes local rivalry match highlights significant roster changes for both Perth-based AFL teams.
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