Australia's best network.
afl.com.au
Essendon youngster Danny Jacobs has suffered an early setback in his preparations for the 2002 season after injuring his knee against Port Adelaide in yesterday's Wizard Cup opener. Scans early this afternoon confirmed Jacobs had strained the lateral ligament in his left knee. A brace has been fitted and he will miss the two weeks. ""It could have been worse but you would obviously prefer all your players to have perfect preparations,"" Essendon football manager Matthew Drain said. ""Unfortunately that is never the case. Assuming Danny's rehabilitation goes well, we should have him back in a couple of weeks.""
Jacobs lined up in defence for Essendon in yesterday's match and was a solid contributor throughout the game. He strained his knee late in the last quarter after landing awkwardly following a marking contest. In other injury news, James Hird rolled his ankle just prior to half-time but is expected to be fit to play this weekend against the Western Bulldogs.
The Essendon VFL side started the season in fine style, beating the Murray Kangaroos by 23-points in a practice match at Sandringham on Saturday. The side was bolstered by a handful of senior players - Adam Ramanauskas, Dean Solomon, Mark McVeigh and Chris Heffernan but it was draftee Andrew Welsh who was the standout. The 18-year-old was very impressive across half back. VFL coach Terry Daniher was satisfied with the teams performance particularly the form of some of the younger players. ""I was happy with how the team performed. I was impressed with the form of Welsh playing off half back and Reynolds on the wing."" Daniher said.
Read nowWe acknowledge the Wurundjeri Woiwurrung people of the Kulin Nation as the Custodians on whose Country we are based. We acknowledge their ongoing connection to Country and pay respect to their Elders, past and present. We extend that acknowledgement and respect to all First Nations peoples throughout Australia.
Up Next
