After a thrilling Round 1 win at the Gabba, AFL Media have previewed who could be in the mix to play in Round 2 as the Brisbane Lions take on North Melbourne at Marvel Stadium.
Brisbane Lions
No rush to get anyone in after a 44-point win over the reigning premier, but Lewy Taylor and Allen Christensen both impressed in a NEAFL practice match to keep pressure on the 22.
There are no problems on the medical front either with both AFL and NEAFL teams getting through unscathed. Marcus Adams is nearing a return, most likely through the NEAFL.
North Melbourne
Defender Scott Thompson is certain to return from suspension, while Paul Ahern was a surprise round one omission and is a strong contender to play after North's Perth horror show. Top-10 draftee Tarryn Thomas and Tom Murphy – an excellent kick – are others with selection claims after impressive VFL performances. Nick Larkey and Nathan Hrovat are the obvious other options. Is Taylor Garner ready to go?
The whole team, bar NAB AFL Rising Star nominee Bailey Scott and recruit Jared Polec? Jy Simpkin, Luke McDonald and Mason Wood are among the Roos who seem most under pressure.
Hard-luck backman Ed Vickers-Willis' season is almost certainly over due to rupturing the ACL in his left knee against Fremantle. Senior regulars Jed Anderson (hamstring), Ben Jacobs (sinusitis) and Sam Wright (quad) remain without a timetable to return.
