There’s sure to be at least one change, with Robin Nahas ruled out with a shoulder injury, while NMFC.com.au revealed earlier that defender Max Warren has been upgraded to the senior list and will make his debut.
Some doubt remains around the fitness of Andrew Swallow and even if he is right to play, it might not be worth the risk given he’s just come back from a long-term injury.
A couple of standout performances at VFL level will give the match committee plenty of options.
NMFC.com.au looks at those in the mix for selection.
Have your say on the potential changes in the comments below.
Liam Anthony
The reason: The on-baller handled his omission well with a best-on-ground performance for North Ballarat.
Twice the substitute, Anthony would welcome the opportunity to work into a game and accumulate possessions.
The challenge: The player who he replaced him, Brad McKenzie, did enough in a starting role to suggest he deserves another opportunity.
Trent Dumont
The reason: As match-day emergency last week, Dumont looks close. Against an inexperienced Lions’ side, it could be the right time.
Doubts around Swallow’s fitness will strengthen his push, with the 2013 draftee terrific in the clinches at VFL level this year.
The challenge: Should his captain play, it may be hard to justify having another inside midfielder in the side against a Lions’ on-ball brigade that arguably lacks depth.
Sam Wright
The reason: Able to play in multiple positions, Wright adds versatility to the line-up.
With Nahas out, he’d add some class to an already potent attacking six.
The challenge: Inconsistency at AFL level has cost him a regular spot and in a must-win game, North may look elsewhere.
Kieran Harper
The reason: He’s bided his time at Werribee but with Nahas out, it provides an opening.
Having not played since Round 3 last year, an appearance would likely be a substitute.
The challenge: The number 23 has shown continued improvement after an interrupted start to the season, but is yet to take a game by the scruff of the neck.
Taylor Hine
The reason: He has excelled in recent weeks across half-back at Werribee, regularly named among the best players.
Given the Lions’ array of small-forward options, it could be the perfect time for the former Sun to come in as a stopper.
The challenge: Who does he replace? Nick Dal Santo, Aaron Mullett and Shaun Atley are mainstays in North’s defence and it’s hard to see him pushing them out.
A stopping role in the midfield could be more likely, with Tom Rockliff in devastating form of late.
Mason Wood
The reason: Before a foot injury, Wood was the dominant forward at VFL level and was close to a call-up.
The challenge: His form since coming back hasn’t set the world on fire and given the efforts of Ben Brown on debut, he may need another week to push his case.
Majak Daw
The reason: A terrific performance for Werribee earned him best-on-ground honours. Confident in the contest, he marked strongly; an element of his game that was somewhat lacking before his omission.
The challenge: Another who may have to wait another week given the strong first outing from Brown.
Playing two ruck/forwards in the 22 is unlikely, so Daw has a battle to win back his spot.
Scott McMahon
The reason: A general for Werribee, McMahon is doing everything right.
The challenge: Opportunity. Michael Firrito has found a new lease on life this season, and it’s going to be tough for McMahon to break in if he retains that form.
Have your say on the potential changes below.
comments powered by Disqus
