North’s VFL contingent will have their work cut out on Saturday as the Roosters take on an experienced Collingwood lineup.

A host of new names, including Joel Tippett, Robin Nahas and Eric Wallace (promoted from the reserves) will take the field for the first round of the VFL season, with plenty to prove.

But they won’t have an easy day at the office. Quinten Lynch, Ben Hudson, Alex Fasolo and Marty Clarke have all been named in a strong squad for the home team.

Tippett could be the man to take Lynch. The Magpies’ forward will look to give Hudson a chop-out in the ruck, but looms as a dangerous option in front of goals.

Recently promoted from North’s rookie list, Tippett has already proven he’s capable of playing on the opposition’s best forwards and the scalp of an AFL premiership player could be the catalyst for a call-up.

For Wallace, it’s the second big challenge in as many weeks. Last week, he split the points with Daniel Currie, while the match-up against Hudson is sure to be an intriguing battle.

In attack, Nahas will be hoping to stamp himself on the game after an up-and-down NAB campaign.

Named as an emergency for North last week, a good performance by the former Tiger will bring him into calculations for a debut in the royal blue and white.

The small-forward was named in the best on 11 occasions in 14 games at VFL level last year.

Gerard Fitzgerald will be sweating on the availability of Ben Jacobs, who was named in the Kangaroos’ squad for the clash against the Bulldogs, while Liam Anthony's ball winning ability is key in the middle.

Jacobs and Anthony combined for over 70 possessions in a practice match last week.

Draftee Trent Dumont will hope to make an early impression in his first VFL outing, while Mitch Wilkins and Max Warren will lead the charge from defence.

North’s other VFL affiliate Werribee will face off against Sandringham in their final practice match on Saturday.

Kayne Turner, Tim McGenniss and Majak Daw are among those who’ll take the field for the Tigers at Moorabbin.

NMFC.com.au will provide reports from both matches in the coming days.  

Collingwood v North Ballarat
Saturday March 29, 1pm
Victoria Park

Werribee v Sandringham
Saturday March 29, 2pm
Moorabbin
Free entry off Linton Street