Wangaratta will be hoping it is second time lucky as star forward Michael Newton prepares to return against Lavington in Saturday's away crackerjack clash.
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Newton was named against Albury last week after training well on Thursday night, but coach Luke Morgan said he was then forced to withdraw with a lower back complaint.
The former AFL player had missed the previous month with a hamstring issue.
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Last year's Doug Strang medallist is one of four big inclusions for the season's most eagerly anticipated match.
Victoria Country defender Dylan Van Berlo will look to play his first senior game in three and a half months.
Coach Luke Morgan is also back after suffering the worst concussion of his career on June 30, while Daniel Boyle is back from a week's suspension.
It's not all good news though with Nick Richards out with an ankle complaint, while Matt Kelly is unavailable.
Lavington veteran John Hunt has been named after missing the Tigers' clash with a tear in his plantar fascia (foot).
Another seasoned campaigner in Adam Butler is also back after a six-week injury spell.
Forward Adam Flagg has a foot complaint, while defender Chris Annett has a broken thumb.
It continues a bad run for the reliable backman after breaking his toe and tweaking his knee.
In some eyes, this will be the grand final preview, although Albury and Myrtleford are still in the hunt for the top three and therefore a realistic chance.
Meanwhile, Wodonga Raiders will debut two players - under 18 Max Glass and Riley Kennett - in Saturday's away clash to Myrtleford.
Declan Everett, Jack Haugen and Tom Bracher will miss the game with injury after last week's thrilling win over Wangaratta Rovers.
Myrtleford has made just the one change with veteran Brad Murray rested.
Meanwhile, Albury's Riley Bice returns from a shoulder injury on June 15.
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