Adelaide forward Darcy Fogarty says goalsneak Izak Rankine is a chance to return for this weekend’s clash against Melbourne at Adelaide Oval.
Rankine had missed the past two games as he recovered from a calf injury but Fogarty revealed the forward/midfielder got through Adelaide’s main training session on Wednesday unscathed.
Should Rankine return to the line-up, Fogarty says it will be a welcomed boost for the team, as it looks to string together a third consecutive win.
“He's (Rankine) been really good in rehab, he's been really diligent and professional,” Fogarty said.
“I think it's up to selection now, if he gets the clearance or not, (but) I think he got through all of the training, and he's definitely put his hand up.”
Veteran forward Taylor Walker is also looming as another to return to the line-up after missing last week’s 57-point win against the Western Bulldogs due to suspension.
Fogarty said the duo’s return was expected to create a healthy selection squeeze.
“It's always good to have healthy competition for spots, and there’s going to be some headaches in the selection meeting, which is always good.
“It’s definitely something that we should be excited about. I think it creates a good, healthy environment, and it allows people to grow and develop throughout the year, and, and really push for spots and play good footy.”
This week’s game against Melbourne will mark the Crows’ annual Emergency Services match, honouring volunteers and all of the state’s emergency service heroes, encompassing the Metropolitan Fire Service, State Emergency Services, SA Police, SA Ambulance Services and CFS.
The Club will host more than 3000 frontline workers and volunteers on the day, providing a chance to thank them, as well as a platform for people to either sign up as a volunteer or consider a new career.
Fogarty said the state’s emergency services personnel deserved to be recognised for the brave work they did.
“On behalf of the Adelaide Crows, we'd like to thank all the work that the emergency service people do,” Fogarty said.
“It definitely doesn't go unnoticed, and I know that it's very much appreciated by everyone, the risk that these people take to ensure that we're all living safer and in a better situation definitely doesn't go under-appreciated.
“The sacrifice that they make to ensure that we are all safe, and at the drop of the hat, they're willing to give up their safety and their security to help us out and lead us into better environments.”
To celebrate Emergency Services Round, fans are encouraged to head to Adelaide Oval’s South and East Gates pre-game on Saturday for a chance to get up close with fire trucks, police cars, and array of Emergency Services vehicles.
The Police Band will also perform on field before the Crows’ run-out.
South Australian Minister for Emergency Services Rhiannon Pearce said the match was “not one to miss”.
“It's going to be an occasion to thank our incredible emergency services personnel for all of the amazing work that they do to keep our communities safe,” Hon Pearce said.
“These are the legends that often put themselves in harm's way to be able to keep themselves safe.
“These are the people that leave their families at the drop of a hat to do what they do best when we need them most, so this event is an amazing opportunity to say thank you for everything that you do.”
For more information, head to our game day guide here.
Adelaide faces Melbourne at Adelaide Oval on Saturday at 12.45pm.
Tickets available here.