Docherty dislocated his shoulder in the first half of last week’s two-point win over Melbourne, but was able to play in the match after help from the club’s trainers before the break.
The former Blues captain appeared to have no problem with his illness as he watched the thrilling victory, with Docherty even winning a crucial play on the wing in the dying moments to create the assist. for Blake Acres to score the winning goal less than a minute into the game. clock.
On Monday night, Carlton confirmed they expected Docherty to be fit to face Brisbane on Saturday afternoon, while the resurgent Blues are also scrambling to reunite key striker McKay for the match. last of the year.
McKay will miss the win over the Demons due to a concussion suffered in Carlton’s last-gasp win over the Swans, after entering mandatory concussion protocols which will end before the weekend. The 2021 Coleman Medalist is on track to face the Lions as he goes through the final days of his recovery from a knock to the head.
Carlton will also have Jack Martin this week after the Blues striker had his two-match suspension halved at the AFL Tribunal last week.
The Blues did not name Jacob Weitering (head/neck) or Blake Acres (shoulder) in their injury update despite injury concerns stemming from last Friday’s win.
Elsewhere, GWS coach Adam Kingsley is confident that ruckman Kieren Briggs will face Collingwood in his team’s preliminary final following a shoulder injury suffered in the Giants’ semi-final win over Port Adelaide.
Briggs was hampered by the incident on Saturday night, but was sidelined until the end of the match, causing some concern for the in-form big man. Speaking on Fox Footy on Monday night, Kingsley revealed that Briggs still needs to prove his fitness in the coming days but is expected to take to the field against the Magpies at the MCG on Friday.
Kingsley said: “He had a scan today, it looks like he has a minor shoulder injury.
“He will train on Wednesday, our main training session. We expect him to play.
“A little (below 100% fit) I think he will be fine. I think he can still play, but if he can’t play, we won’t let him on the field. I think he’s ready to go.”
Briggs aside, the Giants will enter this week with an almost full squad for their final preliminary clash with minor premiers Collingwood.
GWS have brought in former captain Stephen Coniglio for the clash with the Power, with the Giants midfielder putting in a better performance on the field to help the New South Wales side secure a top-four spot under the manager’s watch. his first year coach.
