Star forward Oscar Allen will play his first match in 18 months against AFL opposition when the West Coast Eagles play Port Adelaide in match simulation at 4.40pm at Mineral Resources Park tomorrow evening.

While it is far removed from a game carrying premiership points it is a significant step forward for one of the club’s key players who missed all of last season with a stress-related foot injury.

This match simulation hit-out is an opportunity to step up preparations as the club builds to a round one clash with North Melbourne at Marvel Stadium on March 18.

While the presence of Allen is a reflection of the work that he has done to prepare for the up-coming campaign he is not alone.

Midfielder Dom Sheed, who played only one game last year, defender Tom Cole, young midfielders Campbell Chesser and Luke Edwards as well as champion defender Jeremy McGovern have all been listed to play.

Cole and Chesser did not play at all in 2022, while Edwards was limited to two games and McGovern managed just 10 after a nasty mid-season rib injury.

This contest will also see November draftees Elijah Hewett, Noah Long and Coby Burgiel press their claims for early opportunities.

Forward Jack Petruccelle will also play after recovering from an ankle injury.

Unfortunately, marquee ruckman Nic Naitanui has a troublesome Achilles injury and will not play while the club’s top selection in the November draft Reuben Ginbey will also sit this one out with a toe injury.

Captain Luke Shuey will step up his preparations when the Eagles play a practice match against Adelaide next Friday.

The Eagles and Power will play four quarters of match simulation before two further periods where a number of WAFL Eagles will be rotated into the action.