Both players are in doubt after going off injured in the last quarter of last week’s thrilling preliminary final win against Milawa, with shoulder and ankle injuries, respectively.
Eames said the duo would be given until tomorrow to prove their fitness, with the club remaining hopeful they will be fit to take their place in the side.
“At this stage we are positive,” Eames said yesterday.
“We will basically leave it to Friday.
“We’ll give them every chance.
“They are both keys to why we are playing in the grand final this year.”
While Eames would love to have the pair available, the Dogs have a number of ready-made replacements, including Tim Aumann, Jarrod Everitt, Luke Dinsdale and Brennan Jenvey.
Moyhu’s only confirmed injury concern, young defender Chris Thewlis, is expected to play despite a shoulder complaint.
Grand final experience will be on the Dogs’ side, with the reigning premiers likely to field about 14 premiership players from 2010.
Missing from last year’s premiership team will be Ben Bell (Wangaratta Rovers), Michael Deveson (reserves), Hayden Sharp (retired), Scott Oliver (Wangaratta Magpies), Brad Miller (retired), Andrew Murray (retired) and Trent Allan (retired).
Eames, who replaced Mick Wilson in the off-season, said the build-up to this year’s decider had been notably different to last season.
“Come tomorrow night with selection and Friday night before the game it might sink in but it’s still a bit surreal,” he said.
“We’ve been lucky that we have been able to play in another one.
“We’ve faced some big challenges these last few weeks and the group’s been able to stand up.
“We really love a challenge.
“Saturday is going to be our biggest challenge.”
By - CHRIS MITCHELL.
15th September, 2011.