One more round to go until finals, and it’s a prime time encounter with Richmond at Etihad Stadium on Friday night.
Depending on results, North could finish anywhere from fifth to eighth heading into a sudden death elimination final.
When looking at any potential changes for this week, the shorter break for Werribee-aligned Roos must be taken into account. The VFL side played on Sunday afternoon, meaning the potential for only a five day break for certain AFL-listed players.
NMFC.com.au looks at those in the mix for selection. Have your say on the potential changes below.
Forwards
After missing last week due to a foot injury, Lindsay Thomas will be anxious to prove his fitness and turn in a good performance before the finals. When the Round 22 team was selected, Brad Scott said he was expecting it to only be a one-week injury.
At Werribee there were a host of good performances from the Roo forwards. Majak Daw kicked three goals, while Kieran Harper had 21 disposals and Mason Wood 20 with two goals.
It provides multiple options for the North match committee to choose from, although the good form of the current key forwards has to be considered. Drew Petrie, Ben Brown and Jarrad Waite took 23 marks between them against the Bulldogs, while Shaun Higgins kicked three goals of his own.
Midfielders
After Brad Scott labelled the midfielders ‘flat’ in last Saturday’s loss, there may be a refreshing through the centre of the ground.
Brad McKenzie and Trent Dumont have been racking up high possession counts in recent weeks for North Ballarat, a large part of the Roosters’ five game winning streak to end the season.
Either of the duo has the ability to perform their role if called upon, and there is also the matter of their VFL season being over.
An appearance for McKenzie and/or Dumont could help to keep them sharp and match ready if called upon in the finals series.
Defenders
Much like the situation of Lindsay Thomas, second-year Roo Luke McDonald missed the match against the Bulldogs and will have to prove his fitness at training to earn a recall.
Scott McMahon was again one of the best players on ground for Werribee, marshalling the defence on the way to 23 disposals and 10 marks.
For North Ballarat, Aaron Mullett and Max Warren were again solid in the defensive half. Coburg only kicked seven goals for the afternoon, with the Roosters turning in several strong defensive performances to finish the season.
