Surface Could Force Ryder Out

Ken Hinkley won't risk ruckman


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Concerns about the Optus Stadium surface mean Port Adelaide star Paddy Ryder might be a last-minute withdrawal from the clash with West Coast.

The All-Australian ruckman is set to make his eagerly awaited return from an Achilles injury in Saturday's match at the new venue.

There have been ongoing concerns about the hardness of the playing surface.

Power coach Ken Hinkley says they will inspect the turf before making the final call on Ryder. 

It could mean Ryder returns in next week's Showdown against Adelaide.

"We understand the hardness of the deck is an issue, not just for us, but every team, particularly for the Western Australian teams that are playing there every week," Hinkley said.

"There's injuries coming out of it and that's a significant issue, one that we had to consider really closely.

"If we get there tomorrow and we feel that there's any issue at all with Paddy, we won't take that risk because of the deck." 

Port can't train at the new venue but will inspect the surface on Friday afternoon.

"It's not the ideal preparation but it's the preparation we deal with," Hinkley said.

Ryder has missed the last five games with his injury.

Sam Powell-Pepper has served his three-game AFL suspension for inappropriately touching a female at a nightclub, but he and Tom Rockliff were not picked for the Eagles clash. 

"He's missed a fair bit of footy and he's had a bit going on," Hinkley said of Powell-Pepper's off-field issue.

"Same with Rockliff, they've both missed a little bit of football so we thought the smart thing to do was to give them the extra game in the SANFL, and hopefully they'll be ready for the Showdown next week." 

Chad Wingard was ruled out of the Perth trip because of a hamstring injury but Hinkley said he also could return for the Showdown.

"It's not that bad a hamstring. He's running already so we're pretty positive about the outcome," Hinkley said.

"He's a chance for next week but we won't risk him."

AAP

4 May 2018




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