Benson set for pre-finals return

AFL Barwon’s decision to push back the GFL grand final by a week has worked in Harry Benson’s favour, with the St Mary’s targeting a Round 19 return from a broken jaw for the star midfielder.

The reigning Mathieson medalist underwent surgery after suffering a broken jaw in a collision with Newtown & Chilwell captain Matt McMahon in the early stages of the Round 11 clash on June 18

Saints co-coach Travis Robertson revealed the meeting with St Joseph’s, rescheduled from July 30 to August 20, shapes as Benson’s comeback.

“He saw the surgeon last Thursday and walked out of there pretty happy,” Robertson said.

“He’s reasonably advanced in his recovery, and he got some positive news there.

“He was able to run at training on Thursday night; just do some light strides.

“So, he’ll start to put a plan in place that sees him play a game before the finals.”

If Benson fell short of taking on St Joseph’s, Robertson would have no issues bringing Benson straight into a second semi-final where St Mary’s will likely start its finals campaign.

“I think we all know what sort of player he is,” Robertson said.

“And assuming he’s got some competitive training over a period of time, we would play him.”

 

 

Image: Harry Benson in action against St Joseph’s earlier in the 2022 season. (Sports Media Image/Marcel Berens)