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Dockers star Fyfe ruled out of AFL derby

3 minute read

AFL superstar Nat Fyfe has ruled himself out of Fremantle's derby clash with West Coast after suffering concussion in a sickening head clash.

SAM LLOYD of the Tigers avoids being tackled by NATHAN FYFE of the Dockers during the AFL NAB Challenge match between the Fremantle Dockers and the Richmond Tigers at Rushton Park in Mandurah, Australia.
SAM LLOYD of the Tigers avoids being tackled by NATHAN FYFE of the Dockers during the AFL NAB Challenge match between the Fremantle Dockers and the Richmond Tigers at Rushton Park in Mandurah, Australia. Picture: Paul Kane/Getty Images

Fremantle skipper Nat Fyfe won't play in Saturday night's AFL derby against West Coast after he ruled himself out due to concussion.

The 2015 Brownlow medallist clashed heads with St Kilda youngster Josh Battle in Sunday's five-point win for the Dockers, leaving him a six-day recovery window.

It proved too short for Fyfe, who made the call to sit out the Optus Stadium clash against Fremantle's fierce rivals in consultation with medical experts and the club.

"I am almost symptom-free and have recovered extremely well," Fyfe wrote on Instagram.

"But a week's rest is the sensible course of action after such a big hit to the head.

"Disappointed I can't be out there with my team."

Fremantle head of football Peter Bell said they'd made the right call.

"As is the case with all of our playing group, the player's health and wellbeing is always paramount in the decision-making process," he said.

Fyfe earmarked a return for the Dockers' meeting with GWS in Canberra on April 20.

"Looking forward to returning the following week against the Giants if all goes to plan," he said.

Fremantle's midfield lost Lachie Neale to Brisbane in the off-season while Connor Blakely and Stephen Hill are sidelined through injury.

Fyfe's absence is a savage blow for Fremantle but coach Ross Lyon has already backed someone to step up.

"We (can) put Reece Conca through there, Andy Brayshaw was in a different role on the weekend but can go back in," Lyon said on Tuesday.

"Mitch Crowden played really well in the WAFL and so did (Stefan) Giro. It is next man in but we also understand that he's our captain."

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