IN: Lockhart, Preuss, Viney
OUT: Jackson (hamstring), Hannan (omitted), Rivers (omitted)
Preuss in for first run of 2020
With injuries impacting Melbourne’s ruck stocks, Braydon Preuss will get his first opportunity for the season, preparing to take on Brodie Grundy at The Gabba.
The 25-year-old played seven games in his first year with the club but hasn’t been seen at AFL level in 2020.
Preuss returns alongside vice-captain Jack Viney and defender Jay Lockhart, who both missed last weekend’s game with injury.
The ones that missed
Luke Jackson could be sidelined for up to six weeks after going down with a hamstring injury against North Melbourne, while Mitch Hannan and Trent Rivers are the unlucky omissions.
Jayden Hunt, Mitch Brown and Joel Smith join the emergency list after standout performances in the club’s unofficial practice match last week.
What it means
With GWS falling to Sydney on Thursday night, there is a spot in the top eight up for grabs.
A win would see the Dees climb to within two points of the Pies and sit in eighth position on the ladder – at least until the Bombers and the Bulldogs play their games on Sunday.
This clash with the Magpies could have an eight-point swing come the end of the year, as Melbourne tries to pinch their spot in the finals.
Look out for
Christian Salem has notched up 100 senior games, set to celebrate the milestone on Saturday night.
The 25-year-old, who was selected with pick No.9 in the 2013 National Draft, has found some good form in recent weeks and will play an important role rebounding off half-back against the Pies.
Oppo watch
Collingwood is clearly a strong side, but its recent form has been a little shaky.
The Pies have won two of their past four games, averaging just seven goals a match.
A few names were rested against Adelaide last week, but the Magpies will benefit from the return of some big names in Round 12, and will be a tough team to encounter.
