But while the home team will be missing the former VFL big man, the Panthers have never looked stronger this season.

“We probably look as potent forward of the footy as we have for a while now I would think with respect to our teams over the last few weeks,” Lavington coach James Saker said.

“I think we’re pretty dangerous up forward.”

The Panthers have welcomed back another stack of players.

Representative defender Jono Spina has returned from the Victoria Country-Amateurs game, while John-Roy Williams and Sam Harris are also back after long injury spells.

Williams hasn’t played seniors since injuring his hamstring against North Albury on May 20, while the rugged Harris has battled a back complaint.

The Panthers aren’t quite back to full strength though, with Brant Dickson (knee) and Nick Holman (hamstring) crucial to the club’s hopes of a third straight grand final.

Porter moved to the US midweek for university.

He’ll be replaced at centre half-forward by ex-Woodville West Torrens (SANFL) key position player Tom Whittlesea.

“I would think they’ll play someone else in that high forward role that Josh has been very good at,” Saker said.

“I think they’ll try and utilise him the same way they used Porter, I don’t think they’ll change their style of play dramatically.”

It’s not all bad news for the Pies though with interleague defender Michael Bordignon and classy Murray Bushranger Nick Richards welcomed back.

It’s a fascinating clash as the pair is one of four teams on 36 points, along with Yarrawonga and Wodonga Raiders.

Wangaratta made a statement when the duo met in round one with a stunning 23-point upset.