A HAMSTRING tweak has forced Melbourne utility Cameron Pedersen to withdraw from the Demons' NAB Challenge clash with Geelong in Alice Springs on Friday night.

Pedersen strained his left hamstring at training on Wednesday morning and has been replaced in the squad by rookie ruckman Max King.
Demons football manager Josh Mahoney said the strain was only minor.

"Cameron pulled up a bit sore in his hammy following training. In being consistent with our ‘no risk’ approach in the NAB Challenge, we have decided to replace him in the squad," Mahoney told AFL.com.au.

"We expect him to be available next week."

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With Mitch Clark, Chris Dawes and Jesse Hogan sidelined in the Demons' 14-point win over the Tigers, Pedersen was used to provide a target in a makeshift Demons forward line.

It was an attacking setup that also featured high-flyer Jeremy Howe and King, with speedster Jay Kennedy-Harris buzzing around at their feet.

The 26-year-old Pedersen has enjoyed a strong pre-season in his second year at the club and particularly stood out in the club's two intraclub matches.

Following the game against the Cats in Alice Springs, the Demons will host Hawthorn in a practice match at Casey Fields on March 8.

Twitter: @AFL_BenGuthrie