The VFL Magpies will return this week after a two week hiatus to face the Box Hill Hawks. Unfortunately in alignment with COVID-19 protocols we ask that fans please do not attend the match. The game will be streamed live and free on Kayo from 12pm on Saturday alongside comprehensive coverage across socials.

In what has been a testing season for the VFL, the players continue to perform at a high level despite a lack of consistent training as a group. This weekend, the Pies will look to make it 4 in a row against the in form Hawks who have won 5 consecutive matches by an average of 75 points.

Max Lynch will headline the team once again, in what has been a break out season for the ruckman. He will likely come up against the experienced Johnathon Ceglar. At 22 years old, Lynch has been outstanding in the VFL, averaging 37 hit-outs in his last three matches. He has also hit the scoreboard more frequently in the last few games, kicking two goals last match against Richmond.

Promising key position player Will Kelly will return this week through the VFL after a short stint on the sidelines with a quad injury.

In great news, Liam McMahon will return to football after a concussion saw him miss against Richmond. The young key forward was in fine form before a some friendly fire from Oliver Henry against Sandringham had McMahon come off second best.

VFL Captains Lachlan Tardrew and Campbell Hustwaite will reunite on the pitch after Hustwaite missed the last game with a tight hamstring injury. Both captains have been outstanding this season, young leaders taking charge and setting the tone.

Caleb Poulter will play VFL this weekend as the competition for spots in the senior side heats up. Poulter has had a fantastic debut season at the Pies, showing really promising signs for the future. 

The big American Mason Cox will also get a full game of VFL under his belt this weekend as he looks to push for senior selection towards the back end of the year. Cox was the medical sub in the AFL last week but will spearhead the forward line for the VFL side this weekend. 

Other AFL listed players to line up in the VFL this weekend include Isaac Chugg, Reef McInnes, Tom Wilson, Mark Keane, Jay Rantall and Nathan Murphy.

There will be two debutants for the VFL side this weekend. Congratulations to Bendigo Pioneers youngster Cobi Maxted and South Australian gun Patrick Dowling. 

Collingwood v Box Hill Hawks

VFL Round 16

Saturday, July 31

12.05pm, Kayo Freebies