The Courier | DARLEY has been dealt a signifcant blow for the upcoming Ballarat Football League season, with emerging star Matt Inglis suffering a severe ankle injury.
Devils' coach Jarrod Edwards confirmed the talented onballer dislocated his ankle playing for Geelong's VFL side in a trial match.
Edwards also stated it was a season-ending injury and a terrible result for the club as it prepares for its season opener against Melton South on Saturday, April 9.
"He's a massive loss for us," Edwards said.
"We're so disappointed for him and it's tough to lose someone like that at this time of the year."
Fortunately for the Devils, the club has retained much of its premiership list and is likely to have the depth to cover for the loss of Inglis.
Star recruit Mitch Banner, who arrives from Williamstown and played a handful of games for Port Adelaide, will have an important role in the Devils' onball brigade.
Edwards said there were others as well who would help fill the void.
