While a loss normally means the potential for changes to the senior side, the status of those in the VFL may throw a spanner into the works this week.

North Ballarat had the bye while Werribee played on Sunday. It means any Tigers considered for senior selection would be coming off a busy playing period; a Foxtel Cup game, then a five-day break.

Lindsay Thomas is almost certain to come straight back into the side after serving his two-game suspension for a head-butt in Round 14.

Daniel Currie was unable to take the field for Werribee. Despite senior coach Brad Scott saying Currie is ready for AFL football, it would be a tough ask for the ruckman to make his debut having not played the week previous.

(in alphabetical order)

Liam Anthony

While Anthony had the week off for North Ballarat, his outside run is always a useful tool at senior level. The midfielder averages 28 possessions against the Blues, his highest for any opponent.

Majak Daw

Daw turned in a best-on-ground performance for Werribee against Casey. With 50 hit-outs, 20 possessions, 5 marks and a goal, he gave the Tigers’ midfield first use of the ball for the majority of the day.

The tricky part is figuring out how he can fit into the senior side with Robbie Tarrant, Aaron Black and Drew Petrie all functioning well in the forward 50.

Tarrant had question marks over his fitness after landing awkwardly against the Lions, but North is confident of his availability.

Luke Delaney, Cam Delaney and Ayden Kennedy

With Lachlan Hansen battling to overcome a concussion sustained against Brisbane, the Delaney brothers and Kennedy would be the trio in contention for the potential vacancy.

Both Delaney’s had the weekend off with North Ballarat, but Kennedy came in for high praise from John Lamont on Sunday after Werribee’s win.

“We’ve been asking him to play more desperately to deny his opponent success and he was better at that today.  With ball in hand, there’s no doubt about it, he’s AFL quality. He’s got an AFL kick, he’s AFL size and he’s got AFL speed.”

Taylor Garner

As one of the two travelling emergencies to Brisbane, Garner was able to gain valuable experience by staying with the team for the weekend. With a week off, his younger body may be sufficiently refreshed to make a senior debut under the bright lights.

With Leigh Adams rounding into form and Thomas returning to the side, it would be a tough fit for Garner to find adequate game time, unless he perhaps plays his first game as a substitute.

Ben Jacobs

Jacobs travelled to Brisbane with the senior side, indicating he was very much in the mind of the match committee.

Both Andrew Swallow and Jack Ziebell suffered knocks during the game against the Lions. The duo are expected to take their place on Friday night, but if they are below 100 per cent Jacobs could provide a much needed extra midfield rotation.

Scott McMahon

McMahon played a full game for Werribee and emerged unscathed with 16 possessions. More important than the statistics was the composure the experienced defender showed, making those around him better.

On the big stage of Friday night football, McMahon would be a welcome addition to the defensive six if the match committee believes he has proved his fitness.

Will Sierakowski

Aaron Mullett was one of many to temporarily go down against Brisbane, suffering an ankle injury. If the left footer is unable to come up from the injury in time, Sierakowski seems the most suitable replacement.

Have your say on potential changes in the comments below.

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