After another stint in lockdown, the squad couldn't wait to return to training and prepare for Sunday's resumption of the NAB League season.

"The boys trained really well on Wednesday night,'' O'Bree said.

"Everyone was that excited to be back out there and that's what Sunday brings as well.

"It's just about enjoying your footy again."

The Pioneers are fourth on the ladder with a 5-4 record, but they've played one more game than most of their NAB League rivals.

Sunday's opponent the Northern Knights are in third place with a 6-2 record.

"The Knights will be a very strong side,'' O'Bree said.

"It's going to be a very tough game...they're seen as a top two side.

"It will be a good test to see where our boys are at."

The Pioneers won't be at full strength for the game in Melbourne.

Classy duo Oscar Faulkhead and Max Dow are available to play because Geelong Grammar has the bye in school football.

Sam Conforti, Jack Hickman, Caleb Ernst and Jackson Evans return from Essendon VFL duties, but the Pioneers will be without talented 200cm big man Jed Brereton because of an ankle injury.

Key position player Cobi Maxted will also miss the game after being called up to play for Collingwood's VFL side.

Maxted has previously played with Sydney's VFL team this season.

On the back of the COVID-19 lockdown, the NAB League has four home and away rounds remaining.

The Pioneers have the bye next week, then play Geelong at the QEO and Greater Western Victoria Rebels away before the finals series.

"The league is not sure what the finals system is going to look like just yet,'' O'Bree said.

"We've got three games to get the boys up and going again and, hopefully, by the finals we'll have our injured players back again."

Sunday's game at Preston starts at 1.30pm. Spectators are not allowed to attend the match.

Read more: Catch up on the latest NAB League news

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