Midfielder Charlie Rowbottom and defender Elise Barwickhave been ruled out of Friday night’s Pride Round fixture against Essendon in Mackay.

Midfielder Charlie Rowbottom and defender Elise Barwickhave been ruled out of Friday night’s Pride Round fixture against Essendon in Mackay.

Rowbottom underwent scans on her ankle following a last-quarter incident in Friday night’s clash against the Giants and will be sidelined this weekend.

“Unfortunately Charlie suffered an ankle injury as it was caught under an opponent. She was assessed sideline and didn’t return to the field of play,” GC SUNS AFLW Physiotherapist Jasmine Herlihy said.

“She’s undergone an MRI scan which will rule her out of this weekend’s match. She will receive a specialist appointment in the coming days which will guide our management moving forward.”

Barwick was taken from the field following a strong collision in the opening quarter and also didn’t return to action.

“Thankfully Elise is doing well and is in good spirits, given the nature of the injury. She will now follow concussion protocols over the coming weeks and we will guide her through

Rowbottom twisted her ankle late in last Friday’s win over Greater Western Sydney, with scans confirming she would be unavailable to face the Bombers in Mackay.

The 20-year-old will speak to a surgeon about her options for recovery, with the hope of keeping the door open for a return should Gold Coast qualify for finals

A win against Essendon could see the Suns finish as high as fourth, while a loss could have them tumbling out of the eight.

Rowbottom is in the midst of another magnificent season, averaging 27 disposals a game and winning more contested possessions and clearances than any other player in the competition.

Her combination with breakout midfielder Claudia Whitfort, dynamic run-with player Lucy Single, Richmond recruit Maddy Brancatisano and reliable veteran Alison Drennan has helped the Suns become one of the better midfields in the competition.

Single will return from suspension to face the Bombers, while defender Elise Barwick will miss the match in concussion protocols after a sickening head clash against the Giants.