Former Crows rookie Jake von Bertouch will get his chance to prove a point after being recalled for Woodville-West Torrens’ SANFL First Semi-Final at AAMI Stadium on Sunday.
Unlucky to be dropped for the Qualifying Final, von Bertouch has been named at full back to tackle either of North Adelaide’s star forwards in Lewis Johnston or Daniel Stewart.
Another former Crows rookie in Sam Martyn has also been included in the Eagles’ 23-man squad while former Panther Lachlan Carey and premiership defender Aaron Day have also been named on a five-man extended interchange bench.
Eagles coach Michael Godden admitted his depth was being tested.
“To be honest this year has been tough,’’ Godden said.
“When you look at the 46 players who have played (league) and half of that side (in the Qualifying Final) had never played on AAMI Stadium before…it is an amazing effort from our club.”
North Adelaide midfielder Joe Anderson has overcome a shoulder injury to be included in the Roosters’ 23-man squad.
The former Carlton player missed last Sunday’s Elimination Final win against Central District after being injured against Norwood in Round 23.
“He trained well last night (Wednesday) so he’s fit and raring to go,” North coach Josh Francou said.
Francou’s willingness to take a punt on inexperienced players could stretch into a second week with 19-year-old Patrick Boles primed to make his league debut.
Norwood coach Nathan Bassett has recalled three players who haven’t played for the Redlegs in more than a month for Sunday’s Second Semi-Final at AAMI Stadium.
Last year’s acting captain Brett Zorzi, valuable utility Brady Dawe and Crows-listed midfielder Mitch Grigg have all been included in Bassett’s 23-man squad to face West Adelaide.
West could spring a surprise by blooding key forward Mason Middleton.
Just 19, Middleton has been named on a five-man extended interchange bench to provide Bloods coach Andy Collins with another attacking option.
Originally from Barmera-Monash Football Club, Middleton spent this year in the reserves after playing in West’s Under-18 side during 2012.
The first of the two semi finals starts at 12.10pm followed by the second at 3.10pm
