AFLW 2022: Fremantle Dockers defender Janelle Cuthbertson to miss Collingwood match with concussion

A fixture reshuffle has cost All-Australian full-back, Janelle Cuthbertson, the chance to play in Fremantle’s crucial clash against fellow premiership contenders Collingwood at Victoria Park on Thursday evening.

Cuthbertson missed last weekend’s win over Richmond with a concussion she sustained against Greater Western Sydney in round two, ruling her out for 12 days as part of the AFL’s concussion protocols.

The 31-year-old would have been available for the match if it was still on Sunday, but it was brought forward by three days as part of a fixture reshuffle earlier this week to allow the Dockers to play the Western Bulldogs on Tuesday.

Cuthbertson is available to play for Fremantle from Friday.

Fremantle have made two changes for their clash against fellow unbeaten team Collingwood, with forward Ann McMahon returning after being rested and midfielder Jasmin Stewart playing her first game for 2022.

Defender Matilda Sergeant (rested) and midfielder Tiah Toth (managed) were left out of the 21.

“Macca’ was just a part of the rotation last week, where we knew it was a possibility that we could be having shortened breaks between games,” coach Trent Cooper said.

“She is absolutely raring to go and is looking to make a similar impact that she had in rounds one and two.

“Jas has been ready to go since round one and has just been held out of the team by the form of the side.

“She is another one who has trained really well, and she has been our best trainer over here in Melbourne, so she thoroughly deserves her opportunity.”

Collingwood have regained co-captain Steph Chiocci who has missed the past two games with Achilles soreness, while Tarni Brown and Erica Fowler return from concussions.

El Chaston, Amelia Velardo and Bella Smith were all omitted.