Michael Apeness is ready to make a long-awaited return to senior football as Fremantle looks to replace the injured Aaron Sandilands for Sunday’s clash with Collingwood at the MCG, according to Michael Walters.
Sandilands was ruled out from selection on Tuesday night by senior coach Ross Lyon, needing more time to recover from a concussion sustained in round 10 against North Melbourne.
Walters admitted that the absence of the 211cm ruckman is a ‘”big loss” for Fremantle’s engine room but feels Apeness has the physical capabilities to limit the impact of star Magpie ruckman Brodie Grundy.
Apeness last played for Fremantle in round 23 of the 2016 season and his potential return on Sunday would mark 645 days between AFL appearances - primarily due to multiple knee injuries.
The 200cm ruck / forward has played six games for Peel this season, including the past four in a row after an early season interruption due to a minor ankle injury.
Since returning for Peel in round five, Apeness has averaged 30 hitouts per game while sharing the ruck load with the likes of fellow Fremantle players Luke Strnadica and Scott Jones.
“I think Ross alluded that Michael Apeness could come in, so whoever comes in we just need them to play their role, step up and fill that void,” Walters said.
“Michael’s a big boy. At times he can be really humble around the club but when he crosses that white line, he’s a beast.
“We need him to bring that physical power – especially in the midfield but also when he goes forward.”
Known for his fierceness in the contest, Apeness could fit the bill for what Walters believes Freo needs to respond from back-to-back losses.
“We need to go out there and compete. We need guys to step into the ruck, compete and bring it to ground and not allow Collingwood to hit the ball where they want,” Walters said.
“Also we need our midfielders and forwards to compete as well.
“In the past we’ve had some really good forward pressure and that’s something we’ve really lacked this year so far. We’re looking to lock it in our forward half and not give them an opportunity.”
