by Davyd Reid
THERE'S already a buzz around Nilma Darnum ahead of the round 16 clash against Catani in Ellinbank District football.
That's according to Bombers captain Oxley Huson, who is set to welcome former Collingwood captain and Brownlow medallist Nathan Buckley into the line-up.
Sunday's game is set to start at 2.10pm at the Darnum Recreation Reserve.
Buckley joins the team as part of the Carlton Draft initiative, which sees six ex-AFL legends line-up in one off appearances for community clubs across Victoria.
Having been used to wearing the black and white stripes, Buckley admitted he had a frown when presented the black with red sash. But, he was proud the club had selected him as the number one pick.
"There were some good players just out of the game," Buckley said.
"I'm looking forward to getting into the club.
"Saying yes six months ago is very different to being six days out.
"It will feel a bit weird pulling on the boots and mouthguard, getting hit and laying a few tackles," he said.
Buckley also admitted his preparation hadn't been the greatest, but was hoping he would be able to come into the team and make a difference.
"The fitness is not great, I haven't been able to hit the pavement as much as I would like.
"The calf keeps going, hopefully I get through.
"If I could borrow some calves and hammies, I would do it."
The Bombers have been improving across the season and, having got close against Lang Lang at home a fortnight ago, will be hopeful of securing their first win this season against a Blues outfit who are also on a development path.
Asked if he would be a chance to better the eight-goal effort of Bernie Vince, Buckley said it could come down to circumstance.
"Bern did it in a half I think," he said.
"If I spend enough time forward, the coach tells me the skills have been brilliant, so hopefully I can get hit lace out.
"I've been keeping an eye on the results; I'm just hoping I can make a difference."
Nilma Darnum has advised a large crowd is expected at Darnum Recreation Reserve on Sunday.
Parking will be extremely limited inside the ground. As a result, it is recommended to use public transport.
Limited free shuttle buses will run from Warragul train station to the ground, leaving every 20 minutes from 9am to 2pm. They will return on demand after 4pm, with the final bus at 8.30pm.
SATURDAY'S matches will be headlined by a clash between third-placed Trafalgar and fifth-placed Poowong.
With Neerim-Neerim South expected to leapfrog the Bloods into third based on current form, the clash could be a precursor to an elimination final in five weeks' time.
The sides appear evenly matched, with the key for the Bloods to restrict the Magpies' run on a bigger ground that offers plenty of space.
LANG LANG will eye off a potential spot in the top five when they host Nyora.
If Trafalgar win at home, the Tigers will move into the top five to intensify a battle for a finals berth.
NEERIM-NEERIM SOUTH will look to continue its bid for the double chance when it travels to take on Longwarry.
YARRAGON have the challenge of hosting ladder Buln Buln, who have only dropped the points once this season.
ELLINBANK has the bye.