Isaac Heeney will miss the Sydney Swans’ upcoming match against the Western Bulldogs due to calf tightness, marking a significant setback for the top-ranked team. This absence will be Heeney’s second missed match this season, following a hamstring injury that kept him out of the round two clash with Hawthorn. Meanwhile, Bulldogs’ captain Marcus Bontempelli has been named to play despite dealing with knee soreness, a result of a hyperextension injury sustained during their previous game against Geelong.
The Swans are not only without Heeney but also Errol Gulden, who is expected to be sidelined for four months after dislocating his shoulder in round two. However, they do regain the services of All Australian defender and former co-captain Dane Rampe, who was rested during round six.
On a troublesome night for the Bulldogs, they faced significant injuries, losing Sam Darcy for the season due to an ACL injury, while Rory Lobb and James O’Donnell are both out with hamstring issues, and Tom Liberatore is recovering from a concussion.
In positive news for the Bulldogs, Adam Treloar is set to make his senior debut for the season after an impressive performance in the VFL where he accumulated 41 possessions. The Swans currently top the ladder with five wins against one loss, while the Bulldogs sit seventh with four wins and two losses.
This match will also hold special significance for the Bulldogs, as they commemorate the 10th anniversary of their grand final triumph over the Swans. A ceremony recognising the previous championship team will take place at Marvel Stadium prior to the match.