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Taylor Duryea is happy to embrace the substitute’s vest if it is thrown his way today.
In fact Duryea will gleefully accept any sort of task coach Alastair Clarkson has in mind for the grand final, provided Hawthorn get over the line.
Duryea hasn’t been the Hawks’ substitute since round 15, but a bit-part role holds plenty of appeal for a 23-year-old in his first grand final — especially one who was named an emergency this time last year.
This season Duryea has played 22 matches, but still doubt crept into the back of his mind this week, given Cyril Rioli’s expected recall.
“It was a bit of a nerve-racking wait. I thought I’d done enough in the previous two games,” Duryea said.
“You hope you’re good enough to be in the side.
“There was certainly doubt going into Thursday’s training and final meeting, but thankfully I’m in.”
Duryea had his first taste of finals this month, playing in wins against Geelong and Port Adelaide.
“All the senior guys’ advice has been really helpful to settle the nerves,” Duryea said.
“They all basically said `play on instinct and back yourself in.
“You’ll do well’.”
If Rioli is included in Hawthorn’s starting side, Duryea looms as a likely substitute.
Duryea said Clarkson had yet to show his sub hand, but that he’d be happy either way.
“No matter whether I start or how many minutes I play, as long as I’m part of it and we get the win that’s all I’m after,” he said.
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SPORT