Teenage ruckman Toby Hawkins filled in for the three-time Maskell Medallist during his two-week break, earning praise from the Bombers leader.

Dare, who will return against Terang Mortlake on Saturday, said Hawkins’ form in the ruck would allow him to spend more time in attack.

“He was best on ground for us last week,” Dare said.

“It’s his first year of senior footy and he’s keeping me out of a spot I’ve had.

“I’ll probably play the whole game forward.”

Dare joins Paul Pekin and Sam Giblett as inclusions into a Cobden side hoping to snap a three-game losing streak. He said midfielders Joel Moriarty and Brodie Mahoney had maintained their high standards during the Bombers’ lull. Key position player Joe Dare, who injured his shoulder in round two, returning via the reserves on Saturday.

Terang Mortlake coach Michael Sargeant picked a settled line up with TAC Cup-listed Scott Carlin the only omission despite its hefty loss to Koroit.

“I want to back the boys in,” he said.

“I thought we copped a really good side so I will give them another chance.”