WAUBRA coach Shane Skontra has admitted premiership ruckman George Russell was rushed back ahead of time.
A suspect quad means Russell will be sidelined for tomorrow’s Central Highlands Football League blockbuster against Buninyong, which is likely to play an important role in the make-up of the top four.
A back injury delayed Russell’s start to the season – he took until round nine to make his 2012 debut against Rokewood-Corindhap.
After another setback, Russell returned for last weekend’s win over Newlyn, but Skontra said he would now be given a couple of weeks on the training track to build condition ahead of a comeback before finals.
Tomorrow’s clash is important for both sides, with the Roos a game clear of the Bombers in second place on the ladder.
Despite their standing and an eight-point lead on fifth-placed Daylesford, Skontra said his side was a long way from securing a double chance in finals.
Skontra said the Bombers, which brushed aside Clunes after half-time on Saturday, would be a big challenge.
“Buninyong has been pretty good. Their best footy has probably been better than ours, but we certainly go in with a winning frame of mind,” he said.
The visitors welcome back tough onballer Daniel Gunn tomorrow, who comes in at the expense of Josh Renga.
PREDICTION: Buninyong by three goals.