Freo livewire Ballantyne out of finals

Fremantle has suffered a big blow to its premiership hopes with livewire forward pocket Hayden Ballantyne ruled out for the finals.

He suffered a foot injury in the thrilling six-point win over Carlton at Subiaco Oval on Friday night.

A series of scans has confirmed that Ballantyne fractured a bone in his left foot.
While the injury does not require surgery, he will wear a moon boot for six to eight weeks.

Ballantyne has enjoyed a brilliant year for Freo.

Marngrook Footy Show host Grant Hansen loves the way Ballantyne plays his footy.

"He knows where the goals are and he's always getting in the face of his opponents. Ballantyne really energises his teammates," Hansen said.

Ruckman Aaron Sandilands shapes as a key as the Dockers confront Hawthorn on their home track at Subiaco Oval on Saturday.

The big clash promises to be the most enthralling game of the first week of the finals.

Freo will fancy its chances of celebrating victory.