Essendon’s bid to lock down a spot in the 2014 AFL finals was dealt a serious blow on Wednesday after star Dyson Heppell was forced off the training track with a broken hand.
The excitement surrounding the successful return of former Brownlow winner Jobe Watson was squashed after the AFL’s no.3 leading disposal getter was rushed into immediate surgery, making the 22-year-old a definite out for this weekend’s vital clash against battling top eight contender Gold Coast.
“Dyson sustained a fracture in his hand during training this morning but we were extremely fortunate that [surgeon] Greg Hoy was available to operate on his hand within the hour,” club doctor Bruce Reid said in a statement issued Wednesday evening.
“The surgery was a success, Dyson had a plate and screws inserted into his hand and we’re confident his recovery time will be minimal.”
The Bombers are holding out hope the young Brownlow Medal hopeful can make a return for the club’s round 23 clash against Carlton.
The fourth-year player is the latest in a list of Brownlow picks to miss significant time, joining the ranks of the injured Gary Ablett, Josh Kennedy, Scott Pendlebury and the once again suspended Nat Fyfe.
Heppell has been on a tear as of late, averaging 28.4 disposals per contest in 2014 and games of 29, 32 and 39 possessions in three of the past five contests.
“I just loved his attitude as a man, because he plays the same every week. Even in the most severe pressure he came out and took the team with him today,” coach Mark Thompson said of Heppell’s 39-touch effort- 29 of which came in the second half- in last weekend’s thrilling win over West Coast.
The Bombers are currently seventh on the AFL ladder with an 11-9 overall record, holding a one-game advantage of over four 10-win teams vying for a spot in the finals action.
Photo: Robert Prezioso/Getty Images
