Albury veteran Luke Packer has declared he will play in Saturday’s grand final against Wangaratta, providing he pulls up well following training on Thursday night.
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The 33-year-old injured his hamstring against the Pies in the second semi, but passed a gruelling fitness test before the session.
Packer was opposed to Albury’s giant Murray Bushrangers’ star Jacob Koschitzke.
“I went as hard as I could and it felt fine,” he said.
“I’ve just got to pull up well tomorrow (Friday) and I’m confident I will.”
Packer is one of three Tigers chasing a record-equalling seventh premiership.
Co-coach Joel Mackie and Morris medallist Chris Hyde are also looking to join former Wangaratta Rovers’ full-forward Steve Norman, leaving behind eight others on six.
I went as hard as I could and it felt fine. I’ve just got to pull up well tomorrow (Friday).
- Luke Packer
Meanwhile, Daniel Cross didn’t train with the group, but has also been named.
Cross said earlier this week he was still only a 50/50 chance after tearing his calf against Wangaratta less than a fortnight ago.
The 34-year-old is the league’s fittest player, but it would still be a remarkable achievement to take his place.
And Sam Schulz has also been named for his first game in two months.
Schulz was suspended following the match against Wodonga Raiders on July 22.
Co-coach Joel Mackie is also set to play his first game in a month after recovering from a calf complaint, meaning Will McIntosh and Ben Dower are dropped.
And Wangaratta captain Michael Newton has been named for his first game in three weeks after aggravating a hamstring complaint he first suffered on July 29, with Riley Smart missing out.
The weather forecast is promising with Albury chasing a record-equalling fourth straight flag at the Lavington Sportsground.