Just as he did late last season, Shane Biggs is putting pressure on at the right time of the year.

Biggs came from nowhere to play three games in 2013 – the round 23 game against Hawthorn and then the semi-final and preliminary final against Carlton and Fremantle respectively.

Named a clear best on ground for the reserves in their NEAFL victory over Ainslie on Sunday, he is right in the mix for a senior recall.

Tom Mitchell also impressed after recovering from an ankle injury, while Ryan O'Keefe was another strong performer.

Dean Towers kicked three goals following his return the week before from four weeks out with a fractured rib.

Tough young midfielder Zak Jones will be monitored this week after he was substituted out of the victory over West Coast with concussion.

Kurt Tippett (knee) will also be a likely inclusion after his late withdrawal on the weekend.

CARLTON
The Blues will keep a close watch on the fitness of vice-captain Andrew Carrazzo, who was subbed off with a quad injury late in the second quarter of last Sunday’s game against St Kilda.

Rising Star nominee Troy Menzel suffered a ‘stinger’ to his left shoulder, but managed to play out the match and should be right to face the Sydney Swans on Saturday night.

In the Northern Blues’ 18-point victory over Collingwood last Sunday, forwards Jarrad Waite (21 disposals, eight marks, three tackles, three goals) and Jeff Garlett (20 disposals, including 14 in the final term) pressed their claims for a return to the seniors.

Matthew Watson booted three goals and midfielder Nick Graham impressed again with 22 disposals.