With the defender unavailable for Round 1 due to suspension, Brad Scott will take the chance to test his options during the practice match against Hawthorn.
The number 42 will be a welcome addition at the Tigers though; his experience and calming influence will be invaluable for his fellow North Melbourne-listed teammates in Ben Speight, Tim McGenniss and Mason Wood as they attempt to build on their promising form.
The trio have all started the year at Werribee well, with Wood in particular coming in for praise from development coach John Lamont after improving 'significantly' from week one to week two.
The call-ups of Nathan Grima, Taylor Hine and Ayden Kennedy to the Kangaroos’ side will test Werribee’s defensive stocks, however the North Ballarat contingent is considerably stronger, with nine North-listed players scheduled to line up at Eureka Stadium on Saturday.
After a weekend off due to no reserves game, Eric Wallace will resume in the Roosters' seconds, attempting to build on a promising debut.
Ben Mabon will return to the role as North Ballarat's number one ruckman in the seniors against Coburg with Todd Goldstein taking the step up, while Luke Delaney has overcome a minor ankle complaint and will look to bounce back into contention for a recall. Development coach Josh Drummond has been impressed with the stability he’s brought to the Roosters’ back six in recent weeks.
While Taylor Garner had a quiet game on the stat-sheet against Geelong, Drummond was adamant continued effort will see rapid improvement. Being groomed to play a midfield/forward role similar to Leigh Adams, it'll be another test of his development at Avalon Airport Oval.
Saturday 16th March
North Ballarat v Williamstown
Eureka Stadium
2:00pm
NMFC representatives: Tom Curran, Luke Delaney, Taylor Garner, Ben Mabon, Cam Richardson, Eric Wallace, Max Warren, Mitch Wilkins.
Sunday 17th March
Werribee v Coburg
Avalon Airport Oval
1:00pm
NMFC representatives: Tim McGenniss, Scott McMahon, Ben Speight, Mason Wood.
