Carlton star ruled out of clash against Collingwood in blow to Fremantle Dockers top four hopes

Fremantle’s chances at staying in the top four and booking a double finals chance have taken a blow with a key Blue ruled out for their clash with Collingwood.

The Dockers are relying on Carlton to beat Collingwood or St Kilda to beat Sydney to stay inside the top four.

But the pre-game news from the MCG has put a dent in Fremantle’s chances with star Carlton midfielder Sam Walsh failing a fitness test.

Walsh has been experiencing back soreness and was touch and go to play.

The blow could also hurt the Blue’s chances of returning to finals as they sit on the cusp of elimination.

The Docker’s 20-point come-from-behind win over the Giants ensured they gave themselves the best chance at staying in the top four, but they could be left rueing the draw against Richmond.

Camera Icon Sam Walsh has been battling back pain. Credit: Darrian Traynor/via AFL Photos

They are just two points clear of Collingwood and Sydney, meaning if both teams win, the Dockers will fall to fifth and host an elimination final at Optus Stadium in week one of finals.

But a loss from either side will secure them a top four birth.

The match between Carlton and Collingwood is expected to draw around 90,000 avid fans to the MCG.