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Melbourne midfielder Bernie Vince stepped up his bid to play in the Demons’ season opener with a solid hit-out in the VFL on Saturday.
Vince’s pre-season was interrupted by a hamstring injury that kept him out of the NAB Challenge, but he returned to the field in a practice match for Casey Scorpions.
The 29-year-old collected 12 possessions and laid six tackles while gaining valuable match practice ahead of Melbourne’s round one encounter with Gold Coast.
“Bernie was able to play about 70 per cent of (the) game, which was important,” football manager Josh Mahoney told AFL.com.au.
“He’s had a really interrupted pre-season so we thought it was important for him to play a VFL game.
“He got through it well so he’ll be another one considered for this week.”
Angus Brayshaw, the third overall pick at the 2014 draft, put himself in the frame for his AFL debut with a strong showing for the Scorpions.
The 19-year-old didn’t feature in the NAB Challenge, but gathered 26 disposals and kicked two goals in the loss to Williamstown.
“We were happy Angus continued his form that he’s had the last couple of weeks with Casey,” Mahoney said.
“The positive signs at the moment is there will be some interesting decisions at match committee this week with a number of guys who have been in good form and Angus will certainly be one of those guys in the squad and in the discussions.”
Collingwood ruckman Jarrod Witts also improved his chances of selection in his club’s season opener with two goals and 34 hitouts in a VFL practice match against Richmond.
The 22-year-old didn’t play in the NAB Challenge as he continued his rehabilitation from a shoulder reconstruction, but now has two practice games under his belt ahead of the Pies’ round one clash against Brisbane.
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