Melbourne's depth ahead of next week's semi-final has taken another hit, with midfielder James Harmes understood to have sustained a suspected hamstring injury in a hitout on Friday against Carlton's VFL unit.
Fringe players from both clubs took part in an encounter behind closed doors as their senior sides do battle in finals, with the practice match helping keep players match-ready as their own VFL seasons finished early.
The contest also served as an opportunity for several Demons players to press their case for a recall for Melbourne's home semi-final, which is likely to take place next Friday night.
Melbourne will be forced into at least two changes for their second final, with onballer Angus Brayshaw (concussion) and forward Jacob van Rooyen (suspension) both set to miss.
The likes of James Jordon, Charlie Spargo, Brodie Grundy, Taj Woewodin and Harmes all took part in the scratch match at Princes Park on Friday, with the latter reportedly not getting through unscathed.
According to 7 News' Mitch Cleary, a hamstring injury has hampered Harmes' potential bid for a return this finals series, with the fringe midfielder left limping in the aftermath of the hitout.
Melbourne are yet to provide an update on Harmes' reported setback.
James Harmes failed to finish today’s VFL scratch match with a hamstring injury.
Opens the door for other contenders for Angus Brayshaw’s spot… https://t.co/nFzW4fUidP— Mitch Cleary (@cleary_mitch) September 8, 2023
Should Harmes be ruled out for the Demons' upcoming final, then Jordon looms as the standout contender to take Brayshaw's spot in midfield.
Grundy could earn a reprieve if the Demons either decide not to challenge van Rooyen's ban or fail to overturn the suspension at the Tribunal.
Other forward options in Harrison Petty (foot), Jake Melksham (knee) and Ben Brown (nee soreness) are currently sidelined, leaving Grundy as a leading option to add to Simon Goodwin's key position options.
Small forward Bailey Laurie was the tactical sub in Thursday's seven-point loss to Collingwood and could earn a promotion to the starting side given the forced changes.
Melbourne will host a semi-final at the MCG next week in the hope of avoiding a second successive year of a straight sets exit after booking a top four spot. A win in week two will see the Demons face the winner of Saturday's preliminary final between Brisbane and Port Adelaide.
