Former Deakin University Sharks star Jimmy Crawford, whose move to the Davidson Oval has yielded 39 majors from just nine outings, looms as a danger on the back of Nirranda’s extensive back-line injuries.

At the other end of the ground, evergreen target Gary Robinson is in career-best form, averaging 6.64 goals per game as a 40-year-old.

Despite the challenge posed by Crawford’s height and marking ability, Blues co-coach Shane Threlfall was positive his defenders could limit his impact.

“We’ve got a couple of big defenders, so we have options to play that role,” Threlfall said.

“If something isn’t working, we can certainly change it up and get somebody different there.”

Threlfall, who masterminded the Blues’ drought-breaking Warrnambool and District grand final victory over the Warriors last season, said his men were better-equipped than they were when the teams last met in round one.

“We certainly in much better shape than we were last time. The last month has been really positive for us, but we’re under no illusions about the quality of opposition,” he said.

“The quality of our training has certainly improved. As the season goes on, we’re getting some cohesion.”

Interleague defender Daryl Beechey is expected to return for Old Collegians and is a prime candidate for the job on Robinson. 

Warriors mentor Josh Reichman was wary of Nirranda, admitting they “forced you to bring your best footy”.

“They’re a good team. They’ve had some personnel changes and they were always going to get better as the year went on,” he said.

“They make you play your best footy. We know the way they go about it and they’re very hard at the footy. 

“They have a good press and they make sure you’re on top with your skills.

“To move forward with any momentum, they’ll ask the best form of you.”

Josh Stapleton (hand) will miss the clash, while Justin Lynch is also out.