The Blues - sitting pretty in second after triumphs over Allansford and South Rovers - have a smaller defensive unit but are keen to use foot skills to alleviate pressure.

Scott Carlin and Reagan Nutting are currently manning the back flanks, helping the side transition from offense to defense in coach Brayden Harkness' absence.

Luke Weel - an assistant coach and widely regarded as one of the best defenders in the Warrnambool and District league - is also playing a part.

Harkness said Carlin and Nutting were proving vital.

"That's been the strength of our game for a long time," he said.

"To be able to add someone of Scott's calibre and Reagan, who has had a big pre-season, has been fantastic.

"They've played really well across the first two games and it's been nice to have strong ball-users coming out of the back half.

"I obviously haven't played yet but they've filled that void tremendously well."

Harkness said Nirranda would maintain its focus on rebound 50s.

"We really look to springboard our attack from half-back, especially on the back of our defensive press," he said.

"It's a big factor in our game and for us to have a player like Scotty (Carlin) there it's a real luxury for us.

"He's certainly a big player for us."

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