As a major contender for the 2009 premiership, West Augusta will be looking to bounce back from the narrow loss to Port last week by chasing a percentage boosting win against cellar dwellers Solomontown at Port Augusta on Saturday.

At this time of the season with the top five sides so close, it will come down to whichever side has the best percentage to give them an edge over their rivals and grab a valuable advantage come finals time.

Solomontown again suffered a demoralizing loss against Lions but at times they showed that they are capable of matching it with all sides, albeit for short periods.

Their most difficult task all season has been to get someone capable of kicking enough goals to give them a realistic chance of winning.

Coach Bob Boston has some very good youngsters to work with and these lads will take time to develop.

They must be given every opportunity and encouragement at senior level as they are the future of the club. Trent Hoare, Nick Redman, Aiden Malchow and Wayne Chamberlain are four players under 17 years of age who have performed well over the past few weeks and have bright futures. West Augusta is capable of kicking big scores with the in form Shannon Page and Matt Woodforde regularly featuring in the goalkickers and best player lists.

Solomontown’s defense will need to play much tighter than last week and the possible inclusion of Marc Scollin will add much needed experience in this area.

It is always a difficult assignment traveling to Port Augusta to play and this is no exception having to front up to a wounded Hawk side who will be hell bent on scoring a huge win.