NORTH Albury coach Jason Akermanis has lit the fuse before the elimination final against Yarrawonga, saying Brendan Fevola’s return will play into the Hoppers’ hands.
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Fevola is likely to play in Sunday’s final at the Norm Minns Oval, in what would be his first game since breaking his ankle against Lavington in round 11.
It will be the star spearhead’s last game in the blue and white hoops if the Pigeons lose, because they haven’t got the second chance.
The winner will play the loser of Saturday’s qualifying final at Bunton Park between Lavington and Wodonga Raiders.
Akermanis said if Fevola played on Sunday, Yarrawonga would be too predictable going forward.
“It doesn’t concern us if Fev plays,” the Brownlow medallist said.
“It actually helps us because they don’t go to (Kayne) Pettifer as much.”
Kayne Pettifer has stepped up in Fevola’s absence, booting 29 goals in seven games.
He booted six against the Hoppers in round 16.
Connor Hargreaves (ill) and Ricky Barnes (knee) should be available for Yarrawonga, while the Hoppers will give Ryan Polkinghorne every chance to prove he’s over a hamstring injury.
Akermanis has plenty of cause for optimism, with North Albury winning both its encounters with Yarrawonga this season.
The Hoppers won by a goal in round seven and by seven points in round 16.
“We match up well against Yarra,” Akermanis said.
“We love playing against them.
“We look forward to the big open ground.
“We will run hard and try and beat them in the contest.
“The guys are super hungry, they want to make sure they don’t just play one final.”
It will be North’s second finals series since Akermanis took over before the start of the 2013 season.
The Hoppers, who finished with the wooden spoon in 2012, finished fifth in 2013 but lost the elimination final to Wangaratta Rovers.