In the Mix: Round 17Howard Kimber
afl.com.au
6 July 2022
After getting close to full strength a few weeks back, the Tigers are now finding a few of their bigger names on the sidelines.
Dustin Martin won't face Gold Coast this week after the club confirmed “a small hamstring strain”, while reliable defender Nick Vlastuin has accepted a one-match suspension.
Dion Prestia's recovery from concussion seems on track and he should return, but Trent Cotchin is at least another week away. So too is Noah Balta who would have been handy in Vlastuin's absence.
Kane Lambert grabbed just three touches through the second half after replacing Martin and, with a six-day turnaround, interstate travel and his chronic hip concerns, the club favourite may stay in Melbourne for a lighter VFL run.
If the Tigers want a defender to replace Vlastuin they may call on Rhyan Mansell or the more versatile Matt Parker, who stood out in the VFL last round.
Yet-to-debut midfielder Tyler Sonsie impressed again, as did Thomson Dow and either could get a run if Prestia doesn't come up.
Verdict: Prestia and Parker in for Martin and Vlastuin.
https://www.afl.com.au/news/793985/in-the-mix-r17-who-s-pushing-for-selection-who-s-under-the-pump-
