Stawell Callawadda Estate Warriors are excited to take on who they consider to be the best in the Wimmera Football League when they meet Horsham Demons at City Oval tomorrow afternoon.
Subscribe now for unlimited access.
$0/
(min cost $0)
or signup to continue reading
Warriors have picked up their intensity and endeavour in recent weeks and when the rest of the competition could be subject to a midseason form slump, Warriors are certain it won't be them.
Stand in coach Brad Thomas is keen to take on the Demons, who have set the standard for the last decade.
"It is exciting for players and supporters," Thomas said.
"We get to play arguably the best team and we see first hand where we want to be."
Stawell will make changes to last weekend's line up which was affected by late withdrawals and injuries.
Liam Nuske will return to the senior team and replace Angus Barham, Nick Considine will be replaced by Brenton Potter and Callum Rickard will have his first chance to play senior football as he takes Jack Walker's spot in the team.
Thomas was adamant that those players had done nothing wrong, but it was about giving others the same opportunity.
"The ones that have gone out haven't done anything wrong," Thomas said.
"It is about giving some other kids a chance while they go back to the reserves and under 17s and work on what they need to. They will get their chance again."
Rickard will make his senior debut after proving himself to be a strong defender at junior level.
Rickard will bring another strong body into the team and will put his body on the line if needed.
Horsham have been known for their even spread of strong players and while Nick Pekin and Joel Geue have been standouts this year, Stawell have identified Billy Lloyd as one player to watch.
Having played in the interleague team, Lloyd caught the eye of Thomas and has now been labelled as a player to watch.
Lloyd dominated against Stawell in round one with plenty of run and carry.
Warriors will look to limit his run, but can't afford to be too player conscious because of their even spread.
"With good teams you can't just shut one player down," Thomas said.
"If you shut one player down another player pops up. That is what happens when you play good teams."
Sean Christopher will be the dangerous forward to watch.
Thomas is hoping for an improved second round and thinks Warriors are still capable of making finals.
"We are going from strength to strength," Thomas said.