But the inclusion of Carl Pound for the Blues does exactly that. The full-back who played a hand in preventing a Jets’ win at Robertson Oval last year is out of retirement – again – to help out, named at centre-half-forward. 

Jets coach Mitch Robinson says 2016 isn’t relevant this year, given the number of changes at both clubs 11 months on.

But the fact remains that the train they hope to ride into this year’s finals stops at Coleambally on Saturday, in the Jets’ last away game of the season. 

“It’s not going to be an easy trip, they seem to get up when they’re at home,” Robinson said, pointing to the Blues’ win over North Wagga two weeks ago.

“With that result, I’m going to be wary. They’ve obviously got a few young players playing and if they get their confidence up, they can get going.”

The Jets are sixth, 11 percentage points behind East Wagga-Kooringal, who have the bye this week.

“We’re in a position where week by week we’ve got to keep ticking the wins off, or it’s our own fault if we miss out now,” Robinson said. 

Along with backman Blake Jones, Blues coach Michael Griffiths also returns, making up for the loss of fellow big man Josh Hamilton.