Though the club has failed to match its lofty 2016 standards this season, Striker Adam McPhail said his side was raring to go after the bye last weekend and would look to build on its impressive showing against the ladder-leading Hawks earlier this month.

“We really needed the break with all those injuries and suspensions but nearly everyone’s back on deck now,” McPhail said.

“We should be fielding a full 16 for both men’s games this weekend.

“Against the Hawks, we were the better team for 80 minutes and it’s good to know that, but we’re not the complete package yet.”

The seasoned attacking-mid has been in fine touch for the Strikers in 2016 but said the injection of Wanderers Tyler Allen and Caylum Barber would add another dimension to the side’s attack.

“It’s a massive month coming up with games against teams we’ve beaten previously, so it’s good to have those guys on deck,” McPhail said.

“Both Tyler and Barbs are committed to the Strikers and they bring plenty to the side.

“Tyler’s pace, his ability to skin players and be a bit more creative is invaluable whereas Barbs is just a workaholic – he runs everywhere and tackles everything.”

However, McPhail is taking no chances against the competition cellar-dwellers.

“The boys know it could be an easier game this weekend but Young can do anything on their day.”

“We still have to head out there and win it.”

The Striker’s men will be joined by the women’s side who will look to shore up their defence in a bid for competition points against the Lions..

“I made it very clear to the girls that every possession we give away in vital areas is a chance that we give opposition to hurt us,” coach Mick Simons said.

“Again we will look to keep our defensive structure intact and hope that this will get us a result.” 

Simons was pleased with the training ethic over the bye weekend, particularly the fierce competition for midfield positions, but said the side’s lack of firepower must be addressed.

“We need to start scoring goals more frequently and Taylah Dickinson, Ash Holder and Alana Simons need to start finding the net,” Simons said.

“This will happen if our passes find feet and we get a good first touch.”