Dean Rioli trained strongly this afternoon confirming his availability for the Round 2 match against Melbourne. After notching up 17 disposals in the first half of the game against Brisbane Rioli spent the final two quarters on the bench with cramp. The 24-year-old moved well on the training track showing no signs of the cramp that restricted him against Brisbane. Paul Barnard also trained solidly in the 90-minute skills session and is a certain starter for the match against the Demons.

Barnard hurt his ankle in the final practice match against Geelong at Lavington and was expected to get up for the Round 1 match. He travelled to Brisbane last weekend, but Bomber coach Kevin Sheedy opted to play youngster Robert Forster-Knight rather than risk Barnard. Jobe Watson also trained well this afternoon and is pushing for senior selection after a corked thigh prevented him from playing last week. The 18-year-old impressed the coaching panel with his form in the practice matches and is a big possibility to make his senior debut this Saturday.

Bomber coach Kevin Sheedy confirmed that he would make several changes to the team that faced Brisbane last weekend including bringing in All Australian defender Dustin Fletcher. Fletcher has missed the past two matches due to suspension. The form of Jordan Bannister in the Brisbane match caught Sheedy's eye. The 20-year-old came on mid-way through the second term finished up with 11 disposals. Bannister debuted in 2001 and played a handful of senior games last season. He has put on seven kilograms during the pre-season and if he continues to show the form he displayed in Round 1 could find himself a regular spot in the seniors.