Fremantle have dumped forward Bailey Banfield for their crucial game against Port Adelaide on Sunday despite him being among a group of just eight Dockers to have played every game this season.
Banfield paid the price for a poor game against Greater Western Sydney last weekend which culminated with him conceding a 50m penalty to Jesse Hogan late in the match. Hogan seized upon that mistake and kicked the sealing goal.
Veteran Michael Walters was selected ahead of Banfield after returning from a hamstring injury in the WAFL last weekend. The small forward was met by atrocious weather conditions, making it difficult for any players to impress, but the match committee have backed his experience and skill for the crucial contest.
Only the absent Josh Treacy (45 goals), Jye Amiss (35) and Michael Frederick (22) have kicked more than Banfield’s 20 goals for Freo this season.
Port Adelaide made two changes with Mitch Georgiades and Jed McEntee coming back into the team. Dan Houston couldn’t be considered due to suspension and Quinton Narkle was dropped.
Fremantle are still missing captain Alex Pearce (arm) key forward Josh Treacy (knee) and ruckman Sean Darcy (knee). They have selected inexperienced teams in recent weeks and lost their last three games.
Recalling Walters will add much needed experience and leadership for a game they must win to have any chance of playing finals.