Orzel’s State call-up

North Albany midfielder Matt Orzel will represent the WA State Country side for the second consecutive year after being called up to face the South Australian Community Football League at South Fremantle Oval on Saturday night.

Orzel was the sole Great Southern Football League player selected in the initial squad of 30 players earlier this month following the Landmark Country Football Championships in Perth, but it appeared he would miss out on making the final cut after being told he was down as an emergency.

But before the final side was released to the public this week, Orzel was called up to replace vice-captain Brendon Jones, who was ruled out with a calf injury, and the tough inside midfielder will now pull on the State colours for the second time in his career.

“At the end of the day, I was pretty lucky to get in,” Orzel said.

“I was the 23rd man and wasn’t playing until Brendon Jones missed out. I found out pretty early on but I’m considering myself lucky to be playing.”

After playing for WA in last year’s 36-point loss to South Australia, Orzel said the side was itching to taste success in the State clash, which will be played at Fremantle Community Bank Oval at 5pm after the WAFL league fixture between South Fremantle and West Perth.

“I never got to play (State footy) back in Perth when I was in the WAFL, so it’s been great to be a part of the last couple of years,” he said.

“It is a really good concept and it’s great to play with a heap of other guys from the country or that are playing in the country.

“I’ll be playing mainly midfield and half forward I reckon.

“The body is feeling good and I’m right to go.

“Hopefully we can gel early and try and get a win on the board.”

The 32-year-old will line up alongside the likes of Scott Worthington (captain), along with former AFL players Greg Broughton, Josh Bootsma and Brett Peake.

Bootsma, who is a former North Albany junior, was part of the final 22 after a dominant season thus far for Katanning.