Fremantle Dockers track watch: Young defender Heath Chapman suffers hamstring injury in final drill

Chapman, 21, had only just returned to full training after missing the past three matches with a calf injury.

After undergoing a fitness test just minutes earlier, Chapman lined up for Fremantle for some 18 v 18 match simulation to finish training. Starting in Fremantle’s non-preferred 18, Chapman was chasing after the ball at full speed when he suddenly grabbed at his left hamstring.

Chapman was distraught by the setback, with several Fremantle teammates quickly making their way over to the young star to comfort him. Match simulation was immediately halted despite the Dockers having five minutes left to play.

It’s not the only injury concern at Fremantle ahead of its clash with Brisbane on Saturday. Star midfielder Andrew Brayshaw was in and out of the rehab group and didn’t partake in match simulation as he continues to battle a knee complaint.

Sam Switkowski appears set to return from a calf injury after spending the entire session in the main group and taking his place in Fremantle’s preferred 18 for match simulation. Michael Walters started training in rehab before building into the session, while forward Lachie Schultz also spent the session in the rehab group but ran freely.

Nat Fyfe was in and out of training, and in and out of different pairs of boots as he attempts to overcome plantar fasciitis. Head coach Justin Longmuir indicated Fyfe may return via the WAFL next weekend, given he hasn’t been sighted since round one. And given Fremantle’s struggles at the contest, that return could take place in the midfield.

Longmuir didn’t rule out the two-time Brownlow Medallist resuming a role on-ball when he does eventually return. And Fyfe was vocal during a groundball, stoppage drill, an area in which the Dockers rank among the worst in the competition. Fyfe preached the need for “ball security” and “controlling the game,” as the players practised their work at ground level.

There were also cheers for uncapped defender Josh Draper early on in the session, igniting speculation that the next generation academy graduate might be set for a surprise debut. Draper was a travelling emergency for Fremantle’s two games in Adelaide and has impressed the Dockers early with his versatility and athleticism.