A HOST of key names are poised to return to Hampden league ranks on Saturday following its mid-season bye.
Subscribe now for unlimited access.
$0/
(min cost $0)
or signup to continue reading
Energetic Warrnambool midfielder Tim McIntyre, Cobden co-coach Paul Foster, Koroit forward Sam Dobson and Portland mentor Luke Crane were named for their respective sides at the selection table on Thursday night.
McIntyre comes in for his first game since round five after overcoming a hamstring injury.
Warrnambool coach Scott Carter said the Blues were thrilled to welcome the former Adelaide Crow back for their round 12 clash against Cobden at Reid Oval.
"I think everybody has seen his quality and he's in good nick," he said.
"He will help with our energy levels to be honest, will give us a spark."
North Ballarat Rebels-listed Luke McLeod also returns courtesy of a TAC Cup bye, while teenagers James Chittick and Liam Hoy were omitted.
Blues forward Travis Graham will make his return from a back complaint through the reserves.
Foster is a massive inclusion for the youthful Bombers.
The veteran will add grunt to Cobden’s engine room after overcoming a foot injury which he suffered in round two.
Dobson is the only change for premiership fancy Koroit after overcoming a knee injury which has sidelined him since round three.
The goal kicker returns for the Saints’ big clash against North Warrnambool Eagles at Bushfield Recreation Reserve.
The Eagles brought in prolific midfielder Jye Bidmade.
Portland added firepower to its midfield-forward rotations, bringing in Hampden interleague star Crane for its clash against Camperdown at Leura Oval.
Crane has overcome a hamstring complaint and joins key defender Justin van Heutgen in a strengthened Tiger line-up.
South Warrnambool added talented teenagers Kyden Jarvis and Paddy Anderson among its changes for its battle against Terang Mortlake at D.C Farran Oval.
Port Fairy will be without captain Dylan Gunning (ankle) for its clash with Hamilton Kangaroos at Gardens Oval.