The positional shift comes in light of another injury in the halves to Ben Gregory’s premier division side, but skipper Jared Robinson thinks it could be a blessing in disguise.

“We’ll give Tommy a crack this week. He’s been playing some really good footy in reserve grade,” Robinson said.

“His confidence is sky high so there’s no better time for him to make that transition into first grade.

“Hopefully he can take the opportunity with both hands and replace Wardy down the track if his injury – touch wood – becomes long term.”

Robinson and the rest of the Red V will need to lift their game as Chris Ward, Hamish Bryant, Jacob Brown and Jack Afamasaga are all on track to miss Sunday’s fixture.

The Panthers have been contenders in recent seasons and Robinson knows the clash is a pivotal one and won’t be a cake walk for his side.

“They didn’t lose many games last year and they’ve been in the top three for the last few years too,” he said.

“Their team is full of Group 10 reps so we just need to make sure we do the things we want to do as a side and hopefully that will limit their opportunities.”

The Panthers will be well-rested and on the hunt for their first win of the season after orchestrating a 24-point comeback against Orange Hawks in round one before having the bye in round two. premier division will kick off at 1.50pm.