DALLAS Mooney toiled through a half in the reserves before dashing to a wedding last Saturday and Koroit coach Chris McLaren believes his presence has his side walking taller.
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McLaren has recalled the classy backman to replace veteran Ben Goodall, who is battling a severe ankle sprain.
It was the Saints’ only change as they fire up for clash with Hamilton Kangaroos at Melville Oval on Saturday.
“Dallas is a super important player for us. He’s highly regarded here, but also right around the league,” McLaren said.
“He’s in the top calibre of half-back flankers in the league, if not the best. To his credit he ran out with the reserves last week. He’s one of our very best.”
Hamilton Kangaroos is plotting for life without influential ruckman Jack Hickey, who suffered a shoulder injury under lights against South Warrnambool.
Kangaroos mentor Matt Dunn said there was no major damage.
“We’re hoping he’ll be out for one or two weeks only,” Dunn said.
The Melville Oval-based club has also named defender Jason McIntosh after two seasons with Horsham District league side Harrow-Balmoral.
He joins youngster Dylan Starkie and speedster Dakin Morris as the Kangaroos’ inclusions.
Beaten grand finalist Port Fairy has solidified its back six with influential defender Matt Sully to return.
Classy onballer Kaine Mercovich is also among the Seagulls’ flock after missing round one.
Warrnambool and Terang Mortlake are both unchanged while North Warrnambool Eagles has swapped Lewis Holland for Tyler Fowler.
North Warrnambool mentor Graeme Twaddle said Holland’s leg speed prompted the call.
“We’re anticipating a fairly quick surface and with Lewis being a small, outside quick we felt he fitted well,” Twaddle said.
Warrnambool coach Matt O’Brien said inclement weather in round one convinced his staff to make no changes.