West Coast v North Melbourne
Patersons Stadium
Sunday September 9, 1.15pm WST/3.15pm EST



Already earmarked as likely starters by coach Brad Scott, North pair Daniel Wells and Nathan Grima were desperate to prove their fitness during training at Aegis Park.

Wells in particular was extending himself with run-throughs and kicking drills, putting his calf to the test. At one point he engaged in some strong one-on-one marking contests out of the goal-square with former Roo Leigh Harding.

The 27-year old midfielder hasn’t played since Round 20 and Scott admitted on Monday he’s been missed.

“He’s a unique player. He’s difficult to match up on from the opposition’s perspective and he certainly gives us a more dynamic look in the midfield.”

Grima’s absence deep in defence has also been felt in recent weeks.

“It's a knockout series so [with] Grima and Wells we'll certainly be looking to get them back into our side provided they pass the tests at training.”

Both players were immediately quizzed by Scott at the end of their training session with the coach keen to find out how well the pair pulled up.

The true test will come on Thursday at the club’s main skills session and North’s squad will be announced in the afternoon.