Bulldogs’ key forward Rhys Ford is on track to return from a knee injury, while the Bombers will be strengthened by the inclusion of midfielders Daniel Couwenberg and Adam Decicco.

Ford hasn’t played since July 22 after injuring his knee against Colbinabbin.

The former Castlemaine full-forward has kicked 45 goals in 11 games for the Dogs this season.

North Bendigo coach Rob Bennett said Ford’s return would hinge on training this week.

“Rhys trained last week and he’ll train again this week and we’ll see how he goes,’’ Bennett said.

Couwenberg and Decicco were late withdrawals from the Bombers’ side which defeated Colbinabbin in the qualifying final.

Leitchville coach Matt Hawken said Couwenberg and Decicco were fit to play.

“The man flu knocked a few of the boys about… but it looks like we’ll have a full list to choose from this week,’’ Hawken said.

“Our final team will come down to ground conditions and match-ups.”

Meanwhile, the HDFNL will count votes for all individual awards in all grades of football and netball on a You Tube link on Wednesday night.

The winners will be presented with their medals/trophies at the HDFNL presentation day on Sunday, September 3.

Flag favourites North Bendigo and Leitchville-Gunbower will clearly poll the most votes in the feature football award the Cheatley Medal.

Midfielders Tyson Findlay, Jarrod Findlay, Joel Helman and ruckman Brett Strange appear to be North Bendigo’s best prospects.

Leitchville-Gunbower has a host of chances, including century goalkicker Matt Perri, midfielders Matt Ladson and Matt Pollock and ruckman Michael Pilcher.

Colbo’s Sam Vale, Nick Knight and Pat O’Brien will poll their fair share of votes, while it would be no surprise to see Huntly star Ryan Semmel win a third Cheatley Medal.

In the A-grade netball, Colbinabbin coach Liz Cobbledick looks a strong chance of claiming back-to-back medals.

Mounts’ duo Belinda Pinner and Clare Hope, White Hills’ goal keeper Anna-Grace Close and Huntly goal attack Ash Jenkyn all had great seasons and will poll well.

Cheatley Medal tips: Adam Bourke – Ryan Semmel (Huntly); Luke West – Brett Strange (North Bendigo); Kieran Iles – Jarrod Findlay (North Bendigo.

 A-grade netball tips: Adam Bourke – Ash Jenkyn (Huntly); Luke West – Belinda Pinner (Mt Pleasant); Kieran Iles – Liz Cobbledick (Colbinabbin).