The Lions, on the other hand, are striving to make the finals for the first time since 2003.

After dominating the first half of the season Port’s form in the latter part has been a little indifferent.

The improved form of the Lions in the second half of season has enlivened the competition and has made their opponents wary of them.

The importance of the game

cannot be understated. For Port it is essential that they regain winning form prior to the finals, while the Lions want to make the finals in their own right and give a clear and decisive message to other teams.

Lions’ forward set up has been one of the key factors in its recent successes.

The inform trio of Tom Harmer, Tate Bradley and Tyson Horsnell has been outstanding. They will need to overcome a tight uncompromising defence lead by talented players in Ben Luteria and Jack Clarke.

The loss through injury of Jaimie McNamara and Chris Stephens has left a hole in Port’s defence, which their return would strengthen greatly.

The ruck work and field play of Lions’ Jonathon Haynes has been a revelation to the team. He has been more than ably supported by Brad Ley.

Michael Burford of Port is capable of counteracting the influence of the Lions’ pair but reports are that he is not playing at his best. With the challenge of the finals around the corner, players of his calibre come to the fore.

Control of the ruck contests will be a key factor in determining the game’s outcome. Both teams have a host of talented followers and

centre line players eager to feed off any advantage.