Following North’s second loss of the season, the Roos are likely to make changes to their side in the hope of recording their first win of 2019 against Hawthorn.
The club’s VFL side took part in its final practice game on Saturday before its season-opener, and a number of AFL-listed players were eager to make their cases for senior selection.
North Media takes a look at those in the mix for a Round 3 berth.
Defenders
Rookie Tom Murphy impressed once again in the VFL, remaining defensively strong, while using his strong kicking ability to take the game on and break lines.
Assistant coach Gavin Brown said Murphy’s 16 disposals were “efficient”, and he was able to “open things up” throughout the afternoon.
Veteran defender Sam Wright has been sidelined in recent weeks after battling a quad injury, but will be available for selection if he is deemed fit by the medical staff later this week.
Midfielders
After missing out on senior selection once again in Round 2, Paul Ahern showed why he has what it takes to be a dangerous AFL footballer, collecting 27 disposals in the VFL.
Ahern’s trademark decision-making and skill execution were “outstanding” according to Gavin Brown, and brought a new-look to the side’s on-ball brigade.
A late omission from Sunday’s clash with Brisbane, Trent Dumont will also be a likely addition to the side if he can overcome the calf tightness that ruled him out last weekend.
Jed Anderson may bypass the VFL and return straight to AFL football if he can pass a test on his hamstring which has sidelined him for the past month.
Both Dumont and Anderson would bring valuable experience and new dimensions to North’s evolving midfield group.
Forwards
Draftee Curtis Taylor continues to make a name for himself at the club after another impressive VFL performance.
The dynamic forward played higher up the ground and was a regular part of North’s attacking moves through the middle of the ground, and is a chance to join Bailey Scott and Tarryn Thomas as 2018 draftees to make their debuts this season.
Having been omitted last week, Mason Wood fought hard in trying conditions in the VFL, but got through unscathed and remains a chance for a recall ahead of the Roos’ upcoming clash with the Hawks.
Nick Larkey and Nathan Hrovat are both yet to feature at AFL level this season after playing in the JLT Series.
Having missed all of 2018 through injury, Taylor Garner will undergo a test later this week to determine his availability for selection.
The 25-year-old featured in North VFL’s practice match against Williamstown last month, and could be an inclusion if deemed fit.
