Jaryd Cachia will return, but Connor Menadue faces another week on the sidelines as Portarlington prepares for its annual Anzac Day meeting with Drysdale.
Cachia, who played 14 games for Carlton in 2013, has been sidelined with a hamstring injury since the opening-round win over Newcomb.
His return will strengthen the Demons midfield as they look to beat last year’s grand finalists since 2018.
The Hawks will be missing Ben Fennell (ankle), Mitch McGuire (quad), and Flinn Chisholm (personal), but Portarlington coach Warren Finlayson has played down his team’s advantage.
“Watching a bit of vision, they’ve been playing a few bulls still through the midfield, so they’re looking to continue to be big and strong in that area,” he said.
“We’ve got to ensure we’re ready for the challenge.
“It’ll be a fierce ruck battle with (Matt) Pigott for them and (Lachie) Hart for us, and hopefully, our guys can get it done on the deck.”
Finlayson says sacrifice has been a key word heading into the match.
“Anzac Day is a huge event on the calendar where we commemorate the sacrifice of not only those who served in World War I but all those who have gone to give for us so we can be better off,” he said.
“We get an opportunity to play footy and put ourselves in a little mini-battle where we can demonstrate selfless acts, bravery, and courage and commemorate the Anzac tradition in our little way.”
Adding former Grovedale star Cam Delaney has given the Drysdale forward line some extra potency.
His arrival alongside Tom Ruggles means the Portarlington defence will have its hands full.
“We’ll work out what’s the best fit,” Finlayson said.
“Ruggsy’s quite strong and quick off the mark, and then Delaney takes the high ball.
“We’ll have a bit of a chat tonight and work out what that looks like tomorrow.”
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