Scorpions snub ‘no worries’

By Marc McGowan
THE Casey Scorpions were the biggest losers when the Victorian Football League’s (VFL) squad to play the West Australian Football League was named on Monday.
The two states will lock horns at Port Melbourne’s TEAC Oval on Saturday, 26 May, but the Scorpions will be the only VFL team not to have a representative in the Victorian side.
It comes as a surprise after the strong early-season form of star Casey midfielders Kyle Mathews, Sydney recruit Stefan Garrubba and former captain and four-times best and fairest Steven Harrison.
Former Kangaroo Troy Makepeace was in consideration for a spot, but a leg problem that has bothered him for several weeks was listed as the reason he was ruled out of the equation.
Scorpions coach Peter Banfield has revealed that Makepeace’s injury is higher up than his leg, which has fueled rumours that he is suffering from groin troubles.
Mathews, who was named on the wing in last year’s VFL team of the year, appears to be the hardest done by after his sensational 2006 season and impressive start to 2007, where his silky skills have impressed.
Australian Football League players are not eligible for selection unless they are on the rookie list.
Banfield, who will coach the Victorian under-23 side in the curtain-raiser to the senior match, was not bothered by the snub and preferred to focus on the positives of the decision.
“I think a couple of the boys warranted selection, but they picked an older-type team,” he said.
“We’ll just make sure we get everyone up, fit and going for the second half of the season – that’s our priority.
“We’re not unhappy, it would have been nice for the club, but we’re more concerned about where we’re going as a team.”
League powerhouses Port Melbourne (seven), Sandringham (six) and Williamstown (five) have the most selections for the VFL squad.