Star forward in doubt for second semi-final

Dynamic Eaton Boomers forward Jarrod Humphries is under an injury cloud heading into Sunday’s second semi-final against Harvey-Brunswick-Leschenault at Brunswick Oval.

Humphries hobbled off with a foot injury in the dying stages of the Boomers’ 31-point victory over Bunbury in the qualifying final and was rushed into the changerooms for medical attention.

Boomers coach Brett Maguire said Humphries would travel to Perth today for scans and his selection against the Lions remained questionable.

Irrespective of Humphries’ match status, Maguire feels the Boomers have enough around the ground to handle the unbeaten Lions.

“We are quietly confident about our ability without being arrogant,” he said.

“I thought the good thing about our second half against Bunbury was just how we maintained our standard and maybe even raised it a little bit.”

Although his side enjoyed a week off, Lions coach John Baggetta feels his side has a great opportunity to secure a direct path into the grand final.

“Things haven’t changed for us,” he said.

“We’ve had a program that we’ve been running from the early and middle parts of the year, which slightly alters heading into the back end of the year.

“Obviously we had a run on Sunday to sort of make up for not having a game.”

The Lions were given a fright by the Boomers during their gripping clash in round 16, but the Lions boss feels his side could have their measure on Sunday.

“Without giving too much away, I think there’s things we didn’t do well during the first half last time so we’ll just tinker with that,” Baggetta said.

Bunbury host Donnybrook in the first semi-final at Payne Park, with the winner advancing to the preliminary final.

Dons coach Julian Burgess was thrilled with his side’s effort against the Hawks on Saturday and is keen for them to continue their good form, while Bulldogs coach Jamie Nani will look for his side to respond more positively after a disappointing second half against the Boomers last Sunday at Glen Huon Reserve.