Adkins back from the brink - Herald Sun

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14 June 2002
By GEOFF POULTER

PACY Magpie Damien Adkins is back from the wilderness for his second game in two years in Sunday's clash with Fremantle.

Adkins has thrown off the dreaded osteitis pubis that threatened to curtail his career to fight his way back into Collingwood's team.

He had a sparkling debut season in 2000 but last year was a virtual write-off when he made only one senior appearance.

Adkins, 21, has built his strength and weight – and has also added a defensive running role to his repertoire.

"He has been pushing for selection for a few weeks," football manager Neil Balme said last night.

"(He's been) a bit up and down, but not too bad, he's done some good things."

Adkins has been chosen in the squad of 25 among seven interchange players for Sunday's Subiaco clash with the Dockers.

Balme indicated it was uncertain whether he would be in the final 22.

"(Coach) Mick (Malthouse) probably hasn't quite decided himself yet either," he said.

Adkins has to prepare carefully to ensure the groin problem stayed away.

"He still has to do some work to make sure he doesn't get it back again," Balme said. "But, yes, he has overcome it.

"At times he has been very good (in the VFL). He has played a bit in defence as well as his forward/midfield role."

The Magpies had to replace Brodie Holland (hamstring) and included Scott Cummings, Ryan Lonie and Heath Scotland.



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