Both teams in the past weeks have come off similar wins over Solomontown – Port winning by 39 points and Lions by 35 points with both teams being behind at half time.

The Bulldogs started slow against Sollies and will need to be focused against Lions as they have a good influx of young players who tasted success winning the Under 18 premiership last season.

Of those players Tyson Horsnell and Cameron Pine are a threat up forward, while Brad Pine and Tyron George both played well around the ground last week.

Brad Ley gives his all in the ruck and now receives good support from new recruit Jonathon Haynes who also played very well last week.

Micheal Lagoudis, who was best afield in the Under 18s last week, will be looking for a senior spot.

Lions have experience with Christian Wood, Tate Bradley and Tom Harmer who is ever reliable in defence.

Port, on the other hand, has a wealth of experience all over the ground led by on ball players Andrew Fleming, Jordan Coombe, Tom Clarke, Andrew Waters and new recruit Andrew Featherstonhaugh.

The Bulldogs have Ben Luteria, Jack Clarke, Mathew Cox and Nathan Lynch in defence, while up forward Brodie Mudge and Chad Parish provide good targets.

Port will have Norm Wombat, Vance Remphrey, Jamie McNamara after along absence, and past premiership player Greg Phillips who is returning to the club all vying for a spot in the senior side as well as Warren Kruger and Nick Gloede who both will be looking to step up from the seconds.

The Lions will miss on-baller Chris Marsland who is out suspended following a two week ban against Sollies’ but the Lions showed against the Cats that their fitness has improved from last season and that they will be out to give their more experienced opponent a run for their money.

The Bulldogs in recent seasons have had the wood over Lions but the youthful Lions will be out to prove that they will be a finals contender in 2008.

I believe that if Port come out switched on they have the ability to defeat Lions but it will not be a walk in the park, maybe 20-30 points.