Less than two years after joining from the Tigers from Dederang-Mount Beauty, Powell will find himself in Peter Knights’ rotations against Victoria Metro at Preston City Oval on Sunday.

Tiger Brayden O’Hara and Myrtleford key position player Matt Dussin were also selected in the 25-man line-up.

Albury co-coach Shaun Daly said Powell’s willingness to learn and work hard had been the secret to his success.

“’Powelly’ burst onto the scene last year and surprised a few people,” Daly said.

“He’s the type of player who always wants to get the best out of himself.

“He wanted to play more midfield this year so he took his training to an elite level over pre-season and has become one of the fastest, fittest and most agile players at the club and maybe the league.

“He still has a bit to learn but knowing ‘Powelly’ he will only continue to improve if he keeps that work rate up.

“It’s a fantastic effort by him and Brayden.”

Powell was awarded the VCFL medal in the Ovens and Murray’s victory over Hampden at Warrnambool in May and is featuring prominently in several media awards this season.

Knights will lead Victoria Country for the final time on Sunday and will be opposed to former Footscray star Brian Royal in the coaching box.

Victoria Country lost to Victorian Metro by 38 points when they last clashed in 2014.

Six Ovens and Murray youngsters – Shaun Mannagh, Dom Brew, Brady and Riley Sharp, Jay O’Donoghue and Luke Quirk – have made the final cut for the Victoria Country under-19 side.

Finley’s Damien Sexton will coach the under-age team.