Docker Duffield to miss start of season
Fremantle defender Paul Duffield is expected to miss the start of the home-and-away season after dislocating a rib in last Thursday's NAB Challenge win over Melbourne.
Scans have revealed a worse diagnosis than originally forecast by the Dockers.
The 30-year-old is likely to miss at least six weeks with the injury, meaning he would not be available until at least the round-three western derby against West Coast at Domain Stadium on April 19.
_The West Australian _understands one of Duffield's ribs was dislodged as he attempted to lay a tackle during the final quarter of the 18-point victory over the Demons at Fremantle Oval. The veteran came from the field after landing awkwardly in a marking contest following the initial incident.
Treatment for a dislocated rib involves popping the bone back into place, with a slow recovery period despite no need for surgery in most cases.
The injury is particularly untimely for Duffield, who is fighting for his place in Fremantle's best 22.
The 157-game defender was one of just six Dockers to play every game last season, but is out of contract at the end of this year.
His unavailability comes with Fremantle facing a brutal first month, opening their season against Port Adelaide at Domain Stadium on April 5 before travelling to Simonds Stadium for a round-two clash against Geelong.
Danyle Pearce is recovering from a calf injury believed to have been sustained during goal kicking practice at training.
The 28-year-old has been ruled out of Sunday's NAB Challenge match against the Swans at Drummoyne Oval in Sydney's inner-west. However, Pearce is likely to return for the club's final pre-season hit-out against West Coast at Domain Stadium on March 22.
Midfield star Nat Fyfe is bullish about the Dockers' premiership chances this season as he prepares to return against Sydney from a minor hamstring strain.
The reigning AFL Players' Association MVP has been in full training for the past week and is expected to play in the club's final two pre-season fixtures.
"Going into every season, every team is trying to win the premiership and you're kidding yourself if you're not," Fyfe told Seven News.
"But we really feel we've got a strong group of players, strong coaching staff and a really strong mindset to achieve.
"We won't be counting any chickens just yet. We've got a lot of work to go, but we're excited to embark on a big year."
Fyfe said he was hoping to take another step up personally and build on a career-best 2014 in which he won his second straight Doig Medal.
"I think you can always get better," he said.
"Personally, a little bit stronger, just a year older and wiser really.
"I know my game a little bit better. I know the guys I play with (their) game a little bit better.
"I certainly want to improve."
"We won't be counting any chickens just yet. We've got a lot of work to go …"" *Nat Fyfe *
