But the former Bulldog premiership player is still weighing through employment matters in Adelaide and could be another week away from deciding whether he can return to the region.

Hollands’ former coach Richard Bence is the other person in the running to take over from Jarrod Twitt who will step down after five years at the helm after today’s clash with Wangaratta Rovers at W.J. Findlay Oval.

Wodonga president Mark Collins said the club had concluded interviews for the position, but stressed an appointment had not been made.

“There has been plenty of conjecture about the job and I can confirm that our preferred candidate is Ben Hollands,” Collins said.

“Ben is aware of our interest but he has to finalise his employment situation before either party is in a position to discuss terms.”

It is believed Wodonga could make an announcement next week.

Hollands is presently an assistant-coach with South Adelaide and if he returns to the Ovens and Murray could make a comeback as a player after retiring 12 months ago following a stint with Adelaide district club Blackwood.

Hollands started his career at North Albury before being drafted by Richmond and spending time with Wodonga, Port Adelaide and West Ade-laide.

Twitt said he was treating today’s clash against Wangaratta Rovers like any other match.

“I haven’t really thought about it being my last game,” Twitt said.

The clash could have plenty of spice as it will be the first time the clubs have locked horns since Bulldog Josh Walker was suspended for six matches for striking Wangaratta Rovers backman John Conroy in their round 9 showdown at John Flower Oval.

The Hawks need to win to be guaranteed fifth spot on the ladder.