The 2019 AFL season is over for Richmond defender Alex Rance, he injured his knee in the opening game of the year and scans have confirmed he has ruptured his ACL.
Rance will consult with a surgeon in the coming days, he is expected to undergo surgery shortly thereafter.
“Alex, to his credit, has been incredibly positive since the injury occurred, and we’ll continue to rally around him in the coming days and throughout his rehab process.” GM of Football, Neil Balme.
Rance averaged 16.0 Disposals & 5.5 Marks in 2018, he has played in 97.9% of games since the beginning of the 2015 H&A season.
AFL FANTASY TAKE
Ryan Garthwaite may get the call up for the Tigers to move down back, there is also the possibility that Noah Balta may be used as a key defender.
“.. Garthwaite.. we’re really excited about.. he’s probably the guy that first comes to mind.. whether Noah Blata goes back, we’re not too sure” Damien Hardwick on replacing Alex Rance.
The use of Balta in defence may strengthen his job security, the scoring may suffer as a result but considering he scored 29pts in Round 1 there may not be much of a difference.
If Balta is the option in defence then it also likely rules out the possibility of obtaining DPP Ruck Status in 2019.
Fantasy: AFL Debuts Round 1
