The outcome of the game is crucial for both teams. It is of particular importance as the season moves into the second half and rapidly towards finals both cannot afford to drop another game.

Lions have had opportunities to cement a place in the four, however, their inability to play four quarters of consistent football has cost them dearly. In their recent matches against South and Centrals, in particular, they were unable to capitalise on relatively strong positions during the games.

For West Augusta, a puzzling turn around in form from early in the season would be of great concern to West’s coach Tim Whitlum and their supporters. The side has too many good players to continue with such poor form.

With the mid season break it has provided both sides with a chance to regroup and to reassess strategies for the remainder of the season.

Both sides on paper appear evenly matched. On the last two encounters Lions were winners. On both occasions, however, it has been a tight contest through out and the one this Saturday should be no exception. Each team has an abundance of youthful talent supported by a number of experienced players.

West Augusta like the Lions has been able to promote a number of talented youngsters who have performed well at League level in recent seasons. Both teams rely heavily on their youth and have to be tolerant of the inconsistencies in performance, which comes with developing players. This has been all too evident in recent games.

For West’s, Nick Collins, Jason Lukic, Rhys Dadleh, Hayden Warren, Jordan Warren and others are all capable young players. While the Lions equally have quality talent in players in the likes of Brad Ley, Michael Lagoudis, Tyron George, Tyson Horsnell and Cam Pine.

West’s captain Adam Zubrinich, Riche Hobbs, John Lawson and stalwart Rob Singleton have important steadying roles. While for Lions this job will fall to captain Marc Congdon, Matt Promnitz, Matt Peek and Christian Wood.

It is difficult to predict the game’s outcome based on current form of both teams. Certainly Lions have had the wood on Westies in their last two meetings. Whatever the outcome spectators will see two sides eager to reverse recent disappointing efforts, which should lead to an entertaining game.

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KEY PLAYER...Tom Harmer was injured playing for Northern Cities last weekend but he is expected to play for the Lions on Saturday.