THE stage is set for a cracking opening round at Domain Stadium with both Port Adelaide and Fremantle poised to field strong sides.
While the Power is hoping to have the services of Jackson Trengove, Chad Wingard and Hamish Hartlett for the season opener - all subject to fitness tests this week - Fremantle seems likely to welcome the return of Michael Barlow, Danyle Pearce and Paul Duffield.
Barlow (ankle), Pearce (calf) and Duffield (rib) appear to have over come their injury setbacks after getting through Peel's loss to West Perth in a WAFL trial on Saturday, and are considered walk-up starters for the main event on Easter Sunday.
"It was a good hit-out, glad to get through though and looking forward to next week." former Port midfielder Pearce said after the game.
"[I'm] a little sore. I got a couple of little knocks here and there but I'll be good."
Port Adelaide plays Fremantle in Round 1 on 5 April at Domain Stadium.