Dick set for Eagles start
August 21, 2012 11:51:28 UK
Forward Brad Dick is set to make his West Coast Eagles debut, after kicking himself into contention.
Dick booted six goals for East Fremantle on Sunday, his best return of the year.
And teammate Chris Masten believes he is ready to be promoted for Saturday's clash against Collingwood at Patersons Stadium.
Dick played 27 games for the Magpies, and will get the chance to help his current club leapfrog his former team into the top four with a victory. West Coast are 5001.00 to win the Grand Final.
West Coast go into their final two games of the season knowing a pair of defeats - to the Magpies and Hawthorn - could see them slip as low as seventh.
I think he's definitely ready to go. Dicky's popular around the playing group and had a massive game on the weekend.
Chris Masten
But their prospects have been boosted by midfielder Daniel Kerr's reprieve by the match review panel. Kerr accepted a reprimand for a striking charge and has escaped suspension.
Dick's haul against West Perth came 10 matches into his return from a second knee reconstruction.
West Coast are free to elevate him from the rookie list because both Mark LeCras and Mark Nicoski have been placed on their long-term injury list.
Masten said: "I think he's definitely ready to go. Dicky's popular around the playing group and had a massive game on the weekend.
"I think he's been in good form. He's got plenty of pace and can kick goals from nowhere."
Forward Josh Kennedy is likely to return against Collingwood, who are 5001.00 to win the Grand Final, after making his comeback from a foot injury alongside Dick.
Masten said Kennedy seemed to have pulled up well from the hit-out.
"He's pretty chirpy as well, so I think he's keen," Masten said.
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