Richmond defender Luke McGuane a wildcard to face CarltonHoward Leigh
From: Sunday Herald Sun
March 25, 2012RICHMOND defender Luke McGuane could be a wildcard for selection in Thursday night's blockbuster against Carlton after yesterday's quality showing for the Coburg Tigers in their opening VFL round against the Northern Blues.
Playing across halfback, McGuane had 25 disposals (12 kicks, 13 handballs) and took nine marks to play a significant role in his team's 11.11 (77) to 9.10 (64) victory at the Coburg City Oval.
Coburg coach Adam Potter described McGuane's input as "outstanding", declaring he could be knocking on the door for Richmond selection this week.
"He has been waiting for his opportunity at AFL and he definitely put his hand up," Potter said.
"Luke's attitude has been fantastic and I am sure he will be be able to add to his 84 AFL games."
McGuane said his pre-season had been interrupted by groin surgery.
"I played a bit in the NAB Cup, but I lacked match fitness. Hopefully, I can get my place back in the Richmond and stay there for the rest of the year," he said.
Coburg was on the back foot after losing Richmond players Ben Griffiths with concussion and Brad Helbig before halftime.
The Northern Blues also had their injury worries, with big forward Levi Casboult involved in a collision with Tyson Biffen in the first quarter.
Casboult was helped from the ground with what could be a serious injury to his right knee.
He went to the Northern Blues dressing room at quarter-time for medical observation.
Casboult is to have a scan in the next 24 hours.
Richmond list player Jeromey Webberley, with 24 touches, Matt White and Jake Batchelor, both 20 possessions, and Dandenong under-18 recruit Todd Elton showed good skills.
Coburg's big-man strength of Andrew Browne, Angus Graham and Tom Derickx took control in the third quarter when they shot out to a 27-point lead.
The Northern Blues' standout was midfielder Brock McLean, who had 30 touches (13 kicks, 17 handballs) working in and under the packs.
McLean, last year's Northern Blues best and fairest, hopes to step back into the talented Carlton midfield.
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