A'vard has been virtually unsighted at Birallee Park over the pre-season and missed their opening practice match against North Albury at Sandy Creek last weekend.

Coach Jarrod Hodgkin said the 2018 Murray Football League medallist was a required player.

"He's contracted so we expect him to play," Hodgkin said.

"He's been pretty busy lately with work and things like that."

A'vard could not be contacted for comment.

The Raiders used youngster Sasha Newnham in the ruck against North Albury man-mountain Isaac Muller at Sandy Creek.

Despite giving away plenty of size to the Hopper coach, Newnham toiled manfully against the odds as the Raiders ran-out victors by five goals.

Classy utility Daniel Bowles was used in the ruck during last year's elimination final against Myrtleford at Albury Sportsground and shapes as another back-up option if A'vard fails to return to Birallee Park.

Bowles is presently living in the Northern Territory and will play for Nightcliff in Saturday night's preliminary final against Southern Districts.

Morris medallist Brodie Filo also plays for Nightcliff.

Originally from Jerilderie, the 196-centimetre A'vard was a handy performer for the Raiders in his debut season at the club.

Wodonga Raiders play Shepparton United at Wodonga Secondary College from 12pm on Saturday.

The Raiders will be considerably strengthened for the clash with Hodgkin, Hayden and Dylan Clarke and Jaxon Neagle among the inclusions.

"We will take a fairly strong side in," Hodgkin said.

In other practice matches this weekend, Myrtleford host reigning premier Lavington, Albury take on Wagga Tigers and Yarrawonga meet Therry Penola.