In North Ballarat’s final VFL practice match, it was a pair of Kangaroos' rookies who caught the eye of Senior Development Coach Gavin Brown.

Braydon Preuss and Max Warren impressed as the Roosters faced Collingwood at Brown’s old stomping ground, Victoria Park.

Preuss in particular was impressive in patches. Spending parts of the day against AFL-listed players in Jarrod Witts (ruck) and Ben Reid (forward), he gained valuable experience against his toughest opponents yet.

“His first quarter was really good and his follow-up work (at ground level) was terrific," Brown told NMFC.com.au.

“He was pretty good with his hit-outs and acquitted himself quite well against Witts. It was a battle of the giants between them.”

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Meanwhile Warren was his usual solid self in the back half, marshalling the troops and defending well all afternoon.

Trent Dumont’s work at the coalface was another positive for Brown.

“His hands were really good at times and really sharp," Brown added.

“He showed some composure and would have got plenty of the footy, which is something he’ll always do.”

In his efforts to win a spot back in the North Melbourne forward line, Aaron Black showed glimpses of form.

Sam Durdin satisfied the coaches with his ability to finish the game strongly despite an early knock to his thumb.

“His contests in the air were good and probably the best thing for him was how he finished the game. He had three shots on goal and provided a good target.”

North Ballarat will start its VFL season next Sunday against the same opponent, Collingwood, making a welcome return to Eureka Stadium in Ballarat.

Note: No statistics available at this stage.

North Ballarat 8.10.58
Collingwood 12.12.84