YARRAWONGA has named superstar full-forward Brendan Fevola as an emergency for Sunday’s elimination final against North Albury.
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Fevola will be given until the last minute to prove his fitness from an ankle injury for the knockout match at Wangaratta’s Norm Minns Oval.
He’s missed seven games since breaking his ankle against Lavington in round 11, but the Pigeons are wary of playing a half-fit Fevola against a Hoppers side known for its rebound from the back line.
Pigeons co-coach Drew Barnes said Fevola would have played against Wodonga Raiders last week had it been a final, but said he is no certainty to face the Hoppers.
“A week ago he got through training and would have played if it was a final,” Barnes said.
“We need him 100 per cent.
“He’s going to give himself every opportunity.”
Yarrawonga named Fevola, Matt Gorman and Chris Irvine as emergencies, with Connor Hargreaves and Ricky Barnes coming into the side at the expense of Irvine and Matt Tregenza.
Luke Holman and Rory Feltwell return for North Albury, with Ryan Polkinghorne getting up from his hamstring complaint.
Matt Endresz also comes in on an extended interchange bench.
Fevola will leave the Pigeons when their season’s over, and North Albury coach Jason Akermanis is hoping that’s on Sunday.
“Who knows what the future holds for Ednie, Fev and Pettifer,” Akermanis said.
“It could be their last games.
“Fairytales are in books.
“If they think they’re going to win four straight, they’ve got another thing coming.
“Our job is to make sure we spoil the party.”
Wodonga Raiders decided not to risk Jydon Neagle for Saturday’s qualifying final with Lavington at Bunton Park.
Matt Derrick was omitted, with Matt Murray and Dylon Simpson coming in.
As expected, Matt Sharp and Tom Hargreave return for the Panthers at the expense of Jonathon Spina and Jack Kirley.
