Port defender Jones out for month with damaged jaw

Port Adelaide defender Lachie Jones has a damaged jaw and can miss the subsequent month of the AFL season.

Jones suffered the damage late within the Energy’s win in opposition to the Western Bulldogs on Friday night time.

The 21-year-old, who was taking part in his second AFL recreation since being dropped after spherical three, completed the sport however x-rays have revealed a fracture in his jaw.

Jones’ kind in opposition to the Canines – a career-high 19 disposals – was hailed as a breakout perfomance for the third-year halfback.

“It was most likely his finest recreation for the membership … taking part in a extremely vital function for us and being assured in that function,” Energy assistant coach Josh Carr advised reporters on Monday.

“So it is disappointing to lose him.”

Jones’ stint on the sidelines begins when the Energy, on a club-record 10-game profitable streak, host Geelong on Thursday night time.

Port have ready-made replacements in haflback flankers Ryan Burton and Riley Bonner who have been axed for the sport in opposition to the Bulldogs.

The Energy’s fixture in opposition to the Cats will likely be their third in 13 days however Geelong’s first outing in 12 days after having their midseason bye.

The second-placed Energy have been tasked with three consecutive six-day breaks getting into the Adelaide Oval encounter in opposition to final yr’s premiers, who’re in ninth spot with six wins and 6 losses.

“We have now been by way of this, all AFL groups went by way of this by way of the COVID years the place you bought brief breaks and four-day breaks and 5 day (breaks),” Carr mentioned.

“They’re skilled. They give the impression of being after themselves with their restoration.

“They get an extended break after this week so the gamers are mentally ready for it they usually’ll be high quality.”

The Energy could have one other gentle coaching week in preparation for the Cats, their final recreation earlier than their bye.

“The final couple of weeks have been gentle weeks,” Carr mentioned.

“So so far as their most important coaching session, there’s a few drills in that, it is actually simply getting on the market and shifting and being able to be well-prepared for Thursday night time.

“You do not get numerous drills into it however simply get the gamers shifting.”

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