Lion Schache’s AFL season over

Brisbane coach Justin Leppitsch says first-year forward Josh Schache has “done enough” and will be rested for the remainder of the AFL season.

An exhausted Schache is nearing burn-out after holding up the attacking end for the Lions for much of the season, and has been omitted from the team for Saturday’s clash with Carlton.

The 18-year-old has had the opposition’s best defender play on him most weeks and Leppitsch said it has taken its toll.

“We’ve put a lot of weight and load through him this year and it’s a bit unfair on the youngest player in the comp,” Leppitsch told reporters on Friday.

“At one point I think he was top 10 in loads in the competition before we rested him last time, so that’s a fair weight for a first year key to handle.

“We’ve asked a lot of our group this year, particularly our younger brigade, and I know the results haven’t been great, but they’ve had to endure more than most and the results haven’t come.

“It’s a double whammy, you’re not getting the physical rewards and you’re not getting the emotional ones. We thought as a club it’s the right move with him.”

Schache, taken by the Lions with pick No.2 in last year’s AFL draft, has played 17 games this year, kicked 16 goals and showed plenty of promise.

“He’s been terrific this year for the group and he’s given our supporters some hope,” Leppitsch said.

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