Darcy Parish’s injury setback continues as he will miss Essendon’s game against Sydney on Saturday night due to a fresh hamstring issue. The star midfielder, who sat out the season opener last weekend, trained on Wednesday and was expected to be cleared by the medical team, but the situation changed by Friday morning.
Despite being named in the 23 on Thursday, Parish was withdrawn following the main session due to hamstring ‘awareness,’ with Ben Hobbs replacing him and Dylan Shiel added as an emergency. Essendon has not confirmed if Parish underwent a new round of scans.
This setback is expected to give Archie Perkins more time in the midfield after his impressive performance against the Hawks. Coach Brad Scott praised Perkins’ flexibility and likened him to Isaac Heeney, highlighting his ability to play both forward and midfield roles.
Ruckman Sam Draper is on track to partner Todd Goldstein for the first time after being named for his return. Draper, who underwent surgery in September for a groin injury, has played three VFL practice matches and needed to complete Wednesday’s main training to earn selection. Coach Scott emphasized the importance of ensuring Draper is fully recovered before returning to the team.
Mason Redman (suspension), Zach Reid (hamstring), and Matt Guelfi (calf) are also sidelined for the upcoming game.
