Carlton father-son prospect Cody Walker had his first Under-18s National Championships game of 2026 cut short by a shoulder injury.
Walker came from the field in the third quarter and was tended to by medical staff. He briefly returned before being ruled out for the rest of the day.
He had 16 disposals to that point, playing as a starting midfielder.
Fellow top-five prospect Noah Williams also failed to play out the game due to a hamstring injury, the extent of which will be confirmed in due course. A product of the Geelong Falcons, Williams was also part of the midfield brigade for Vic Country on Sunday at Blacktown.
The pair took out the best afield medals in the Under-17s Futures game on AFL Grand Final game last year.
Vic Country defeated the Allies by 13 points with GWV Rebels top 10 prospect Ethan Drever the best for the victors, with the Finn Callaghan-like midfielder finishing with 21 classy disposals.
But the standout of the day was GWS Academy prospect Ethan Matthews. His 34 disposals and 10 clearances kept the Allies in the contest throughout the day with his laser-like kicking, a highlight.
It continues strong Talent League form for Matthews, who has rocketed into first round calculations.
