So even before the Pies welcomed the return of star quartet Jaye Bowden, Zac Webster, James Webb and Sam Reeves from injury, Thorp did.

"There's no doubt the cavalry will come back for this game," he said.

"We're prepared for that and we welcome that.

"We want to be a side that can play against the best opposition at any venue in Tassie and to be the best side you need to be able to combat that and still win."

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Best on ground when the Blues and Pies last did battle, Fletcher Seymour continues to enjoy his best season of TSL footy to date.

The Deakin University student, who won three flags at Old Scotch, sits only two votes behind Brad Cox-Goodyer in the TSL player of the year award.

"I've known Fletcher since he was 12 years old, I've coached him through his junior footy and he's always been a really special young footballer," Thorp said.

"His cricket probably took all of his attention when he was 16, 17 and went to England to play for Australia but now he's turned his focus back to footy and it doesn't surprise me at all to put together such a consistent season.

"He's an extremely hard worker - he wins the ball in tight and gives us some drive from that midfield."

The Blues made just one change, recalling key back Simon Vandervelde for conditioning coach Ben Killalea.

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