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INJURIES

Patrick Dangerfield (ribs) assess

Sam Shaw (lower leg) assess

Brad Crouch (leg) 2 weeks

Richard Douglas (suspended) 1 week

Ricky Henderson (leg) 3-4 months

Jack Osborn (back) 2 weeks

Ben Rutten (knee) test

Nathan van Berlo (Achilles) 3-5 months

Taylor Walker (knee) available

ON THE BLOCK: Patrick Dangerfield should play despite copping a heavy knock to the chest from Bulldog Daniel Giansircusa. The explosive midfielder was rocked by the front on bump late in the match at Etihad Stadium, but played on. He will be looked at this week. Sam Shaw is another under a cloud following a knock to his leg. Mitch Grigg is no certainty after starting as the substitute and having little impact against the Dogs. Sam Kerride and Jared Petrenko played bit-part roles.

SHOULD WALKER PLAY AGAINST THE DEES?

ON THE CUSP: Yes, it's only the SANFL. Yes, it was Taylor Walker's first game in 12 months. But boy, did Tex put his hand up for selection. He kicked three — easily could have had a couple more — from 12 disposals and six marks. Fitness will be the key, but Tex can't be far away. Cam Ellis-Yolmen was the pick of the Adelaide-listed players on SANFL duties — he collected 26 disposals including 11 clearances. Brodie Martin was rock solid and a chance to push for senior selection.

GILBERT GARDINER'S FORECAST: A golden opportunity beckons for the Crows to go into their bye 4-3 and ahead of the ledger. But Melbourne is not going to be a pushover, not even at Adelaide Oval. Losing Dangerfield, albeit unlikely, would be a blow but expect the Crows sputtering forward line to have too much fire power for the Demons.

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BRISBANE

INJURIES

Claye Beams (foot) 1 week

Matthew Leuenberger (knee) 11 weeks

Ash McGrath (calf) 2 weeks

Sam Michael (hamstring) available

Daniel Rich (knee) season

Brent Staker (calf) indefinite

Patrick Weardon (ankle) 10 weeks

ON THE BLOCK: Luke McGuane is hardly making the best impression up north racking up nine disposals in his two games. The former Tiger was subbed out of the win over St Kilda. He is yet to impact the scoreboard and in all sorts trying to make the cut. Key posts Marco Paparone and Darcy Gardiner can be excused due to the slick conditions in Wellington, but James Polkinghorne might not be so lucky. The middle-of-the-road Lion managed just nine disposals at 56 per cent efficiency.

SUPERCOACH STUDS AND DUDS

ON THE CUSP: Jordan Lisle put his hand up for an instant recall with a best on ground performance in the Lions' one-point NEAFL loss to Sydney reserves. Rookie Zac O'Brien remains a live chance to be upgraded after another standout performance in the reserves. The mature-aged midfielder loves a contest and boasts the skills to get out of trouble. Jackson Paine kicked two goals while Ryan Harwood, Nick Hayes and Rohan Bewick must show plenty at training.

GILBERT GARDINER'S FORECAST: It has taken six weeks, but Brisbane and Justin Leppitsch finally have something to smile about! The Lions wound back the clock holding off a fast-finishing St Kilda on Anzac Day. But it doesn't get easier with Sydney on the horizon. Top pick James Aish oozed class, while skipper Jed Adcock must be one of the most underrated defenders in the business — he was sublime with 12 rebound 50s.

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CARLTON

INJURIES

Chris Judd (Hamstring) 4 weeks

Tom Bell (finger) 2 weeks

Ed Curnow (fibula) 5 weeks

Matthew Kreuzer (foot) 9-11 weeks

Andrew Carrazzo (back spasms) test

Chris Yarran (hamstring)

David Ellard (calf) test

ON THE BLOCK: All of a sudden the Blues don't look so bad! Chris Yarran is in some doubt for Friday night being subbed out with hamstring tightness. Key forward Levi Casboult is another at risk following a sub-par performance. Zach Tuohy was blasted by Mick Malthouse on the ground, but he's too important to miss.

BLUES KNEW DAISY WOULD GET BETTER

ON THE CUSP: David Ellard is expected to play after pulling out with a sore calf. Andrew Carrazzo will be monitored during the week after he succumbed to injury before Saturday night's game. Hard-nosed midfielder Jaryd Cachia and Dennis Armfield were the only shining lights in a dirty day for the Northern Blues.

GILBERT GARDINER'S FORECAST: Back-to-back wins is a start, but the true test comes in the shape of Collingwood on Friday night at the MCG. The win over West Coast could be the launching pad for something special, but question marks remain on how the Blues will combat a bona fide contender like the Magpies. Marc Murphy leadership and work ethic can't be questioned; Jarrad Waite looks — on Saturday at least — to have found his mojo. Need them and more to fire to be any chance of upsetting Collingwood. Can't wait to see what an improving Dale Thomas brings to the table.

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COLLINGWOOD

INJURIES

Tim Broomhead (shin splints) available

Nathan Brown (shoulder) available

Nathan Freeman (hamstring) 2 weeks

Adam Oxley (ankle) test

Ben Reid (calf) 1 week

Matthew Scharenberg (feet) indefinite

Paul Seedsman (hip) available

Ben Sinclair (hamstring) 1 week

Marley Williams (ankle) assess

Alex Fasolo (foot/toe) 2-3 weeks

Clinton Young (corkie) assess

ON THE BLOCK: Alex Fasolo was subbed out and in a moon boot shortly after a toe problem flared up against the Bombers. Clinton Young copped a corkie when he barrelled Paul Chapman with a huge bump and could miss. If not injury, the match review panel might also have a say on his selection prospects.

FASOLO CLEARED OF FOOT FRACTURE

ON THE CUSP: Kyle Martin starred in the Magpies' VFL win over Essendon with six goals. He must come into consideration. Taylor Adams showed plenty in the midfield, but given the way the Magpies are going it might be hard for him to break into the rotation. Marley Williams made a stylish return through the VFL before copping a knock to the ankle. The attacking defender, who only last week escaped an immediate jail term with a suspended sentence, will be assessed during the week. Nathan Brown is certain to return from a shoulder problem following a couple of VFL games under his belt. No risks to be taken on Ben Reid and Ben Sinclair.

GILBERT GARDINER'S FORECAST: It's an old cliche but the Magpies are well and truly flying. They've demolished North Melbourne and Essendon in consecutive weeks, no reason why it can't continue against archrivals Carlton. How will the Blues counter the "Big Three" Scott Pendlebury, Dane Swan and Dayne Beams. They simply can't. Travis Cloke remains an unknown quantity, while Jesse White is making a strong case for 'recruit of the year'. Magpies by plenty.

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ESSENDON

INJURIES

Patrick Ambrose (quad) available

Tom Bellchambers (ankle) available

Alex Browne (knee) season

Corey Dell'Olio (suspension) 1 week

Brendon Goddard (groin) available

Will Hams (hip) 1 week

Nick Kommer (knee) 1 week

Heath Hocking (hand) available

ON THE BLOCK: Jake Carlisle is most definitely on the nose and in all sorts trying to keep his spot in the team. Let's be honest, he'll benefit from a week out of the spotlight in the VFL. Kyle Hardingham looks destined to miss with Brendon Goddard fit and ready to play. Courtenay Dempsey struggled in his first game back, but he will be better for the run.

BOMBER TURNS HEAT ON CARLISLE

ON THE CUSP: Goddard will play against the Western Bulldogs on Saturday missing a couple of games with groin soreness. Bombers coach Mark Thompson could flirt with recalling Tom Bellchambers — thereby dropping Carlisle — but the ruckman, on the comeback trail from ankle surgery, had his colours lowered in the VFL by Magpie Ben Hudson. Ariel Steinberg and Travis Colyer would be next in line for selection.

GILBERT GARDINER'S FORECAST: The engine room can't be blamed for the Anzac Day capitulation as they won hitouts, clearances and inside-50s. The problem was Essendon was unable to keep the ball close to go for long enough to score. The willingness was there, but poise and polish fell away as Collingwood turned up the heat. Goddard's return can't come soon enough, while Bellchambers — as long as he's match fit — provides a strong target close to goal. They must win, simply no excuses.

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FREMANTLE

INJURIES

Michael Walters (ankle) season

Hayden Ballantyne (suspended) available

Michael Barlow (knee) 2 weeks

Kepler Bradley (knee) available

Colin Sylvia (suspended) 2 weeks

Max Duffy (shoulder) 4 weeks

Scott Gumbleton (hamstring) 6 weeks

Sam Menegola (knee) 3 week

Alex Pearce (shin) 1 week

Tanner Smith (hamstring) 4 weeks

Michael Wood (shoulder) available

ON THE BLOCK: Nick Suban is no certainty to keep his spot with another below par performance. Matt de Boer was subbed out, while Tommy Sheridan needs a full game under his belt be it at AFL or state level. Chris Mayne won't be dropped, but boy does he need to pull his finger out. Michael Johnson could come under scrutiny for trying to bump injured Kangaroo Aaron Black.

NO DERBY SELECTION WITCH-HUNT: LYON

ON THE CUSP: Hayden Ballantyne will slot straight back into the team after serving his one-match ban. Not a lot left in reserve with Sylvia currently serving his WAFL suspension, while comeback kid Anthony Morabito faces a nervous wait after having his number taken for rough conduct. Morabito, reported for a high bump, oozed class racking up 27 disposals in Peel Thunder's loss to Claremont. Jack Hannath was reported for striking in the same game.

GILBERT GARDINER'S FORECAST: Fremantle boasts the class edge over West Coast, but the $1.47 the bookies are currently offering is way under the odds. The Dockers have very little coming through the ranks be it through injury or suspension. Ballantyne adds grunt to the forward line, fingers crossed it rubs off on Mayne. Dockers, but only just.

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GEELONG

INJURIES

Zac Bates (hamstring) 4-6 weeks

Josh Caddy (foot) 8-10 weeks

Allen Christensen (back) 6-8 weeks

Shane Kersten (knee) 6-8 weeks

Andrew Mackie (hamstring) test

Lincoln McCarthy (back) test

Daniel Menzel (knee) indefinite

Steven Motlop (knee) test

Dawson Simpson (ankle) test

Billie Smedts (leg fracture) 1-2 weeks

Nathan Vardy (knee) season

ON THE BLOCK: A few Cats had dog days against the Power — some big names included. George Burbury's intent can't be faulted but his skill level lets him down. Jackson Thurlow was given a big task against Port while Taylor Hunt is always on the fringe in this side. Josh Walker will also be discussed at selection.

HAWKINS DODGES KNEE INJURY

ON THE CUSP: Steven Motlop played VFL footy for the second straight week and while he didn't have a big impact, he's right in the frame should he pull up OK. Andrew Mackie's hamstring will be monitored while the Cats will hope Dawson Simpson has overcome his ankle. They won't be in contention for some time yet, but Geelong's first-round pick last year, Darcy Lang, was best on in the VFL at the weekend while Jarrad Jansen — their second-rounder — was also prominent.

BEN BROAD'S FORECAST: Not the end of the world for the Cats, going down to a very good team on their home patch. The margin against Port was a little uncharacteristic but it was a night when not much went right, and there's plenty of talent on that injury list to welcome back. For now, however, Chris Scott and his men will look to bounce back against Richmond — and bouncing back is something the men in blue and white hoops have been at in recent seasons. The Tigers have been well down in recent weeks, and one would expect the Cats to keep them down this week.

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GOLD COAST

INJURIES

Clay Cameron (shoulder) 2-3 weeks

Tom Nicholls (calf) test

Charlie Dixon (groin) 1-2 weeks

Jack Martin (shoulder) indefinite

Zac Smith (knee) indefinite

Andrew Boston (ankle) indefinite

ON THE BLOCK: The Gold Coast list is pretty healthy at the moment and with a number of key players performing well, there is pressure mounting on spots in the side. Matthew Warnock received a reprieve due to the late withdrawal of Tom Nicholls and put in a decent shift, however with Nathan Bock waiting in the wings his spot is under pressure. While Jack Hutchins, Tim Sumner and Sean Lemmens will have questions asked of them as first-choice players become available.

ON THE CUSP: Harley Bennell kicked three goals in a best on ground performance in the reserves' heavy loss to GWS and he is almost certain to come back into the side. The game against North Melbourne at Etihad Stadium on Sunday might see the return of Nathan Bock to senior action after playing the past three games at NEAFL level this month. Bock was rested last weekend, but was among the best players on Saturday. Charlie Dixon also made his return from injury and kicked two goals.

ADAM BALDWIN'S FORECAST: The Gold Coast is flying at the moment at 4-2 after the first six rounds. North Melbourne on Sunday presents a considerable test for the young side, but it certainly has the form to take it right up to the experienced Roos midfield on the road. It will be a big test to determine how good the young Suns are. Their midfield is operating at an elite level at the moment and whichever engine room can have the greater influence, will go a long way to winning the game. Gold Coast's two losses this season have come against last year's grand finalists, so North Melbourne should provide a realistic challenge. Campbell Brown said he expects Gold Coast to win 12 games and they need to pinch a couple against more fancied sides to make the final eight and this might be one of those.

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GWS

INJURIES

Phil Davis (kidney) indefinite

Josh Kelly (hamstring) test

Shane Mumford (knee) test

Tim Mohr (knee) 3 weeks

Rhys Palmer (hamstring) 1 week

Sam Schulz (shoulder) 2 weeks

Lachie Whitfield (foot) 1 week

ON THE BLOCK: Tom Boyd has really struggled in his first couple of hit-outs at AFL level. He could face the chop this week. Tom Bugg, Zac Williams and Lachie Plowman could also be under pressure after the loss to the Suns.

ON THE CUSP: Can Mummy beat the clock and return to face the in-form Matthew Lobbe? All at GWS are hoping the big man has overcome his knee in time to face the ladder leaders. Toby Greene has served his one-week suspension and could return. Josh Kelly missed last week with hamstring tightness and will be front of the queue to return, while fellow mid Dylan Shiel returned in the NEAFL from his quad injury and booted two goals. However the standouts in the reserves' 10-goal win over Gold Coast were Mark Whiley (three goals), Nathan Wilson and big man Andrew Phillips. Dylan Addison was also a solid contributor.

BEN BROAD'S FORECAST: Leon Cameron's young team wasn't bad against the Suns at Metricon, never seriously threatening but keeping the scoreboard in a respectable state. Jonathon Patton down back looked good, too, and could be a sign of things to come. But where will the next GWS win come from? Port this week is a tough ask, and the Giants must summon all their energy to stay with the hard-running Power. The clash will be a useful learning tool for Cameron and his men.

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HAWTHORN

INJURIES

Jed Anderson (shoulder) indefinite
Liam Shiels (shoulder) 2 weeks

Brad Sewell (hamstring) 2 weeks

Matt Spangher (ankle) 2 weeks

Brendan Whitecross (knee) indefinite

ON THE BLOCK: Hard to see the Hawks making any necessary cuts to the side after a 66-point demolition of Richmond. Sub Jonathon Simpkin was the only player to collect less than 10 disposals, yet he still finished with eight touches from just over a quarter.

GIBSON IN STRIFE OVER CONCA HIT

ON THE CUSP: Big man Luke Lowden was outstanding for Box Hill against Coburg in the VFL on Saturday, dominating in the ruck then drifting forward to boot two goals and win the Gibbs-Lines Anzac medal. Sam Grimley added another two goals to his VFL season tally, while Alex Woodward, who has been hampered by serious knee and shoulder injuries over recent years, attacked the footy tremendously in a sign he is not far from making his AFL debut. Kyle Cheney, who had been playing as a key position defender for Hawthorn, looked comfortable rebounding out of defensive 50.

BEN WATERWORTH'S FORECAST: That's better! The silky skilled Hawks only needed one week to remind the footy community of their lethal best, clinically dismantling Richmond on Sunday. The Hawks are back at the MCG this Saturday to take on St Kilda. All due respect to Alan Richardson's men, but the Hawks will be looking to boost their already strong percentage. They are the best attacking team in the competition and should enhance that reputation against the Saints.

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MELBOURNE

INJURIES

Jesse Hogan (back) indefinite

Viv Michie (jaw) 2 weeks

Dean Kent (calf) 1 week

Jack Trengove (foot) season

Garland (leg) test

ON THE BLOCK: The lead-up to Saturday's game with Adelaide will be all about the form of Jack Watts. After a bright start to the season, Watts again struggled on the weekend collecting 15 disposals in an uninspiring performance. His good is outstanding, but his bad is similarly horrible. Watts appears to have no confidence in his marking at the moment and Paul Roos faces a tough decision about whether to back his star pupil or send him to Casey to find form and confidence. Roos' strong backing of Watts in Monday morning's media call suggests Watts will hold his place. Jeremy Howe is in the same boat and struggled to impact the game playing in the forward line after spending time as a defender in the past few weeks.

STRUGGLING WATTS MAY NEED VFL RUN

ON THE CUSP: Aiden Riley played his third VFL senior game on the weekend after recovering from a broken ankle sustained playing for the Crows last year. He was recruited to fill a defensive midfield or lockdown small defender role and Paul Roos will be keen to get him into the side when possible. Jordie McKenzie is vying for a similar position and responded to his axing with 27 disposals for Casey. Colin Garland started his third game at VFL level strongly, but played no further part in the game after halftime. If Garland is fit, he will play in the VFL again before being eligible for senior selection. Max Gawn is finally stringing some games together and will be a welcome forward option.

ADAM BALDWIN'S FORECAST: The Dees might have won just one game and they might not be kicking many goals, but they are remaining in games for longer and look a more competitive team in the past month. Paul Roos' defence-first mantra is starting to stick in the minds of his players and holding Sydney goalless in the second quarter on Saturday night was a big win. If the Demons can continue to stick with sides for the duration of the game, they will pinch a few more wins in the remainder of the season. Once they nail defence, the attacking side of the game with click fast. This will be the approach against Adelaide at the Adelaide Oval on Saturday — win the stoppages, win the contested footy and limit the opposition's ability to score. It might not be pretty, but it's where the development of the group is at presently.

North Melbourne training, Andrew Swallow, 9 Source: News Corp Australia

NORTH MELBOURNE

INJURIES

Ben Brown (knee) 1 week

Tom Curran (foot) indefinite

Cam Delaney (foot) test

Taylor Garner (hamstring) test

Jamie McMillan (broken leg) 3 weeks

Andrew Swallow (Achilles) available

Robbie Tarrant (lower leg) test

Scott Thompson (suspended) available

Daniel Wells (foot) test

ON THE BLOCK: You'd think North will make at least two changes with Scott Thompson and Daniel Wells — soreness permitting — set to return for Sunday's match against Gold Coast. The big inclusions heap pressure on Robin Nahas, Joel Tippett and Majak Daw to perform on the track this week. Nahas tried his guts out against Fremantle only to run out of legs in the second half. Tippett would be stiff to miss after good carrying his good pre-season form into his first game for North Melbourne. Daw provided a target up forward as well as ruck relief. It looks like being a tough week at the selection table.

SWALLOW FLIES IN VFL COMEBACK

ON THE CUSP: North could boast three frontline inclusions for Sunday with Scott Thompson, Daniel Wells and Andrew Swallow all in the mix. Thompson is certain to play after serving his one-match ban for striking Travis Cloke. Wells could return as long as soreness in his foot subsides, while Swallow showed no signs of discomfort in his first game back from Achilles surgery. The skipper collected 23 disposals in three quarters for Werribee and would be "able to handle it" at AFL level this week, development manager Ben Dyer told the club's website. Mason Wood (four goals), Liam Anthony and Ben Jacobs were best of the rest. Looking further afield, forward Kieran Harper is finding touch in the VFL while tagger Taylor Hine could earn himself a recall to combat one of the Suns' star midfielders.

GILBERT GARDINER'S FORECAST: Liked what Ross Lyon said after North Melbourne ran over Fremantle on Friday night. "Talk is cheap". Of course it was directed to his Dockers, but the words ring true at Arden St too. North might as well forget recent wins over Sydney and Freo if it's going to falter against the Suns — at Etihad no less. No ifs, buts or maybes — must win. Worthy of note will be Luke McDonald's output against an outfit brimming with young talent.

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PORT ADELAIDE

INJURIES

Angus Monfries (hamstring) test

Jarrad Redden (knee) 4-5 weeks

Sam Russell (hamstring) 2-3 weeks

Lewis Stevenson (toe) 5-6 weeks

Mason Shaw (wrist) 2-3 weeks

Sam Colquhoun (knee) TBC

ON THE BLOCK: Hard to knock too many Power players after they walloped the Cats by 40 points. Jarman Impey only got his chance late after coming on as the sub. Perhaps he could do with a full game in the SANFL, while Sam Gray is on the fringes of the best 22.

ON THE CUSP: Angus Monfries is now over his hamstring injury. Will Ken Hinkley bring in his clever goalkicker or give him another week? The top-of-the-table Power 'only' play GWS, so the coach could be tempted to give 'Gus' another week to rest. Ben Newton could be given a chance as he continues to carve up the SANFL. On Saturday he collected 31 touches, including three goals, seven clearances and six inside 50s.

BEN BROAD'S FORECAST: Port is the real deal, surely? They must now be considered a legitimate premiership hope after dismantling the Cats at Adelaide Oval (AO) on Sunday. The Power plays exciting, attacking footy and will now set about locking in a top-four berth in 2014. A top-two berth isn't beyond the realms, and anyone venturing to AO this year should be very afraid. For this week, however, the Power travels to Canberra. They will play in front of slightly fewer than the 47,000 screaming fans they had on Sunday when they face the Giants. Port should be 6-1 at the end of Round 7.

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RICHMOND

INJURIES

Jake King (toe) 3 weeks

Matt Dea (hand) 1 week

Brett Deledio (Achilles) test

Aaron Edwards (knee) test

Chris Knights (knee soreness) 1 week

Ivan Maric (ankle) 2 weeks

Alex Rance (foot) test

Matt Thomas (knee) test

Cadeyn Williams (shoulder) 1 week

ON THE BLOCK: Sam Lloyd's stint in the seniors might be about to come to an end after he was handed the sub vest against Hawthorn — bad news for about 85,000 SuperCoaches. After his brilliant three-goal debut, he has scored just one behind in the past two matches. The man who replaced him, Matt McDonough, did a couple of nice things but could be in the firing line along with a host of underperformers against the Hawks. Mat Arnot (eight disposals) is probably in the most danger, but Steve Morris had a nightmare against Cyril Rioli and Shaun Hampson was beaten badly in the ruck for the first time this year.

VICKERY KICKS THREE GOALS IN VFL DRAW

ON THE CUSP: Brett Deledio and Alex Rance can't come back quick enough, and Damien Hardwick says they are both likely to play against the Cats. They could be joined by No. 9 draft pick Ben Lennon, who put in another strong performance in the VFL. Ty Vickery was better this week and could return given Richmond's inability to kick a score.

AL PATON'S FORECAST: Things are getting dire and Geelong on the rebound is not ideal for a team devoid of confidence and run. One saving grace is the Hawks have belted some handy teams this year — Fremantle by 10 goals and Gold Coast by 15 — but Richmond is a shadow of the team that just missed the top four last year. The evenness of the competition means top eight hopes are not totally shot but there will have to be some serious changes from here to keep the Tiger army at bay.

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ST KILDA

INJURIES

David Armitage (leg) 3-4 weeks

Sam Gilbert (foot) 10 weeks

Lewis Pierce (back) 3 weeks

Nathan Wright (broken leg) 10-12 weeks

Eli Templeton (broken arm) indefinite

ON THE BLOCK: There will be one forced change with Eli Templeton possibly out for the year after falling awkwardly in a tackle in Wellington. Seb Ross got a bit of the ball but his disposal let him down again and Josh Saunders might be due for a rest. Could Shane Savage pay the price for his brain fade in throwing the ball away to give away a 50m penalty with less than a minute to play against Brisbane?

GILBERT SUFFERS INJURY SETBACK

ON THE CUSP: The only one of St Kilda's three top-20 draft picks from last year yet to make an appearance at AFL level could make his debut next weekend. Blake Acres impressed with 21 disposals and seven marks in Sandringham's win against Casey. Adam Schneider will return after his one-week suspension and Sam Fisher, who just missed out last week, is also a chance. Daniel Markworth (16 disposals and a goal) is also getting close to senior selection and Sam Dunell is knocking on the door for his first game for the year.

AL PATON'S FORECAST: The Saints blew their chances to go 4-2 with a sloppy first half and some horrible late misses. They probably won't get those chances against the red-hot Hawks on Saturday. But there were still some positives out of the game, including another shutdown job by Tom Curren (on Tom Rockliff) and the vastly improved form of Rhys Stanley. Slugged with the "potential" tag for five years, he may have finally found his place as a forward-ruckman.

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SYDNEY

INJURIES

Sam Naismith (knee) 3-5 weeks

Alex Johnson (knee) season

Tommy Walsh (hamstring) test

Kurt Tippett (rib) 1-2 weeks

Lewis Jetta (groin) test

Lance Franklin (knee) test

ON THE BLOCK: It was a comfortable victory over the Demons in the end, but it was a bruising encounter no less. The players attracting significant scrutiny in the first month of the season are back to their best and it seems there is now selection heat on players for the right reasons. Lewis Roberts-Thompson has been a valuable servant over the years, but he struggled to have an impact on Saturday night and might face pressure for his spot in the coming weeks.

BUDDY'S GOT HIS FINGERS CROSSED

ON THE CUSP: Tom Mitchell was dropped after the loss to North Melbourne with an ankle injury, but he returned to the field in the NEAFL on the weekend and was named best on ground. Ryan O'Keefe, Gary Rohan and Dean Towers continue to push for selection, while Brandon Jack and Sam Reid were the travelling emergencies on the weekend.

ADAM BALDWIN'S FORECAST: The state of Buddy Franklin's knee will drive the news ahead of Sydney's game with Brisbane on Sunday. John Longmire said after the win over Melbourne, Franklin is carrying soreness in his knee sustained in the win over the Crows in Round 3 and had been on a modified training program since. Despite recording its first win, Brisbane should prove an easy kill for Sydney, making to three on the trot and 4-3 after a disastrous start to the year.

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WEST COAST

INJURIES

Xavier Ellis (calf) test

Shannon Hurn (knee) 1 week

Mark LeCras (broken arm) 1-2 weeks

Beau Waters (shoulder) season

ON THE BLOCK: The Eagles fell in a heap at the finish against Carlton, but the question will be how much can Adam Simpson swing the axe from what wasn't a terribly bad display. Jamie Cripps didn't do a heap, Scott Lycett was patchy, draftee Dom Sheed kicked a nice goal from limited game time while rookie Jeremy McGovern was subbed out.

ON THE CUSP: Darren Glass has served his suspension and will be a welcome inclusion for this week's Derby. Xavier Ellis could return from an ankle injury and would provide some much-needed poise from the back, while the coach will be hoping Shannon Hurn can make a speedier-than-expected recovery from his knee complaint. Callum Sinclair keeps impressing for East Perth and could be some chance to come in.

BEN BROAD'S FORECAST: It promises to be one of the bigger Derbies in recent memory with the Eagles and Freo facing off for a place in the eight. West Coast has lost its past three after starting in a blaze of glory and seemingly announcing itself as a genuine top-eight contender. But the wheels look to be falling off. Mark LeCras can't come back quick enough while fitness concerns continue to linger over Nic Naitanui. The footy world is again doubts the Eagles' 2014 credentials, and only a win over the Dockers — which would be their third in a row — will silence those sceptical of their finals aspirations.

Dale Morris has served his suspension, but must overcome an ankle injury to be fit. Source: News Corp Australia

WESTERN BULLDOGS

INJURIES

Jarrad Grant (foot) 3 weeks

Dale Morris (ankle) test

Daniel Pearce (knee) 7 weeks

Josh Prudden (knee) 2 weeks

Jordan Roughead (shoulder) 6 weeks

Marcus Bontempelli (soreness)

ON THE BLOCK: Despite a disappointing result on the weekend, it was a pretty even contribution from the Bulldogs. The players who need to lift are at the pointy end of their talent pool. The form of Ryan Griffen and Tom Liberatore in 2013, means their benchmark is extremely high and the statistics prove they are a long way off their best footy at the moment.

ON THE CUSP: Footscray enjoyed a 166-point win over Bendigo in the VFL and it's no surprise a number of fringe players enjoyed a day out. Mitch Wallis is too good a player to find himself out of the side, while Jason Tutt and Ayce Cordy were also among the better players. Clay Smith was named best and on ground and is a chance to make his return to the senior side after tearing his ACL at the end of last season. Dale Morris faces a test on his ankle injury. Mitch Honeychurch was an emergency for Sunday's game and didn't feature in the VFL match.

ADAM BALDWIN'S FORECAST: Saturday's game with Essendon is a huge in the context of the Bulldog's season. Both sides have just two wins and the loser faces an uphill battle to make the finals. The Bulldogs always give an honest effort, but they are a more talented side than 2-5 and the loser of this game will be under serious pressure. To win this game the Bulldog on-ball brigade needs to have a big day and Griffen and Liberatore need to give some support to Jack Macrae and Matthew Boyd. The Essendon defence is faulting at the moment, so it might be the day Stew Crameri steps up and wins a game off his own boot.