Welsh’s rare bit of timing

SCOTT Welsh's re-introduction to senior football could not have come at a better time, with fellow forward Robert Murphy set to miss the next few weeks with a hamstring injury.

Welsh, 30, played his first game for the year last weekend against former side Adelaide after being a late replacement for the injured Shaun Higgins.

He gained further match fitness – and kicked three goals – against Melbourne on Saturday at the MCG, which was timely given Murphy's first-quarter injury.

"It was disappointing when Murph went down. He started the game well and he's a real target down in the forward line," Welsh said, after the match.

"We missed him badly but we've got other forwards that can step up and take that role on.

"It's good to be back. I was happy to contribute to the team and get back and running.

"I was stuffed after last week but the more games I play, the more match fitness I get.

"I'm a bit knackered now but we'll do recovery during the week and just get ready for next week."

Coach Rodney Eade praised Welsh's performance after the match and said the former Crow gave the side an avenue to goal after Murphy's unscheduled exit.

Welsh said it was pleasing to be back playing seniors after an interrupted start to the season where he bounced in and out of the Williamstown side owing to disc problems in his back.

He also said it had been surprising to be included in last week's side after having a weekend off the previous round.

"My back has been up and down but hopefully I've got it all out of the way now and I can just concentrate on playing consistent football," he said.

"I didn't play at Williamstown the week before last. My back had flared up a little bit again but it wasn't that bad. I just didn't really want to make it any worse.

"Then Higgo was in a bit of doubt and they needed another lead-up forward. I wasn't too sure if I'd get a game and I had to wait until the end of the week.

"I got told at the last minute. It was a little bit surprising but it was great to get that opportunity."

Welsh said his back problems would require cautious handling for the rest of his career but was optimistic he had found the best way to cope with it.

"I've got a bulging disc and it just flares up every now and again. I don't think it's ever going to go away but I've just got to be positive and manage it well and stay on the park," he said.