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Western Force lock Hugh McMeniman set to miss Lions clash
IAIN PAYTEN THE DAILY TELEGRAPH JUNE 02, 2013 5:09PM
Western Force lock Hugh McMeniman is set to miss Wednesday night's clash with the Lions. Picture: Justin Benson-Cooper Source: PerthNow <>
TOUGH lock Hugh McMeniman says he's likely to miss the Force clash with the Lions on Wednesday night, but aims to impress enough against the Waratahs four days after to book a later date with the tourists in a gold jersey.
McMeniman is on the verge of his comeback to action after suffering a fractured shoulder, and an associated A/C joint problem, two months ago against the Rebels.
The 29-year-old - who returned from Japan this season - has been in superb form for the Force prior to the injury, with his trademark brand of abrasive play pencilling him for a Wallabies squad inclusion.
McMeniman targeted the Force-NSW game on Sunday for his return and said that despite feeling confident he could play against the Lions at NIB Stadium in their opening tour match, he wouldn't rush it.
"The Waratahs game is the one I am looking to play in," McMeniman said.
"I could probably make the Lions, I have done my contact training and stuff but it would give me that couple of extra days.
"And obviously the Waratahs game is for points, and the Lions isn't.
"We have a pretty big emphasis on that Waratahs game."
The lure of playing against the Lions is still strong for McMeniman, but he is hoping a complete showing against the Waratahs will lead to a meeting later in the month.
With injuries to Sitaleki Timani and Scott Higginbotham, the versatile lock/six's chance of a call-up next week are strong. His combative style and lineout proficiency are highly regarded by Deans.
"I would definitely like to play for the Wallabies, but I guess I only have that one game to impress. I would be pretty lucky to get the opportunity but I am leaving it to the last moment I guess," he said.
With two games in four days, Force coach Michael Foley has a 35-player squad in training and will name his Lions team on Tuesday, and a team to meet the Tahs on Thursday.
With call-ups to the Wallabies squad and injury problems, Foley has been forced to draft in players from Sydney and Perth club rugby to bolster his numbers.
http://www.heraldsun.com.au/sport/ru...-1226655406683