Injury Concerns Cast Shadow Over Marcus Bontempelli Following Early Exit from Practice Match

Western Bulldogs star Marcus Bontempelli exited the field just 11 minutes into a practice match on Thursday night due to a calf issue. Fortunately for the captain, he has a little over two weeks to get back to full fitness ahead of his team’s first premiership fixture.

The Bulldogs have reported that Bontempelli’s early departure was due to “low-level calf tightness” during their 11-point victory over Hawthorn in Launceston.

“Yeah, I’ll be fine,” he assured Fox Footy from the sidelines.

The six-time All-Australian has a window of 16 days to recover and prepare for the Bulldogs’ opening match against North Melbourne at Marvel Stadium on March 15.

The Bulldogs led at every quarter break, concluding the game with a score of 11.11 (77) to 9.12 (66).

Tom Liberatore, a premiership veteran with the Bulldogs, amassed a match-high 31 disposals along with nine clearances, while teammate Sam Darcy showcased his skills with a stunning mark and three goals.

Lachlan McNeil and Aaron Naughton also made significant contributions, kicking four and three goals respectively.

For the Hawks, James Worpel had an impressive outing, recording 28 disposals, a game-high 10 clearances, and a goal.

Hawthorn will kick off their premiership campaign against Sydney at the SCG on March 7.