ALBURY young gun Elliott Powell is likely to escape club sanctions, despite his decision to play for another club on Saturday.
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The Tigers say they were unaware Powell had played for his former club Dederang-Mount Beauty in the Tallangatta league reserves, until reading it in The Border Mail on Monday.
Despite being disappointed with Powell’s actions, Albury co-coach Chris Hyde said the young midfielder would be available for selection for this week’s clash with second-placed Lavington.
“He’s a good kid and I think in hindsight it was probably a bad decision from everyone,” Hyde said.
“We’ll support him, but make it clear that that’s not acceptable behaviour.
“But he’s certainly a really important member of our footy club.”
AFL North-East Border is looking into the match.
Dederang-Mount Beauty faces the possibility of its score being wiped and a possible fine, if it’s proven it played an ineligible player.
The Dederang-Mount Beauty reserves were thrashed by Kiewa-Sandy Creek by 156 points.
Powell, who joined Albury from DMB this season, was on the comeback trail after injuring his knee in the big win over Wodonga Raiders on July 25.
There were initial fears he would miss the rest of the season through injury after being stretchered off the ground.
While disappointed, Hyde said Powell wouldn’t be suspended by the club.
“Obviously disappointing to see it but we’ll support Elliott and it’s probably just a learning point for everyone involved,” Hyde said.
“We certainly won’t be hanging Elliott out to dry.
“We’ll definitely support him, (because) he’s been a great player for us.
“There will be some honesty spoken to everyone.
“He’s a good guy and means well.”
Albury is fresh from the week off and could get several big names back for this week’s blockbuster clash.
Those in contention to return are Michael Thompson, Alex Goodall and Jay Koehler.
John Mitchell could also come in for just his fourth senior match of the season.