They are two key playmakers and Branxholm coach Ricky Cooke is only too aware how damaging they can be.

Duels in the middle between Wanderers' Ben Hodgetts, Matthew Batty, the Lewis brothers and Mark McLaughlin, and Winnaleah's Clive Poulton, Stephen Clark, Mason and Andrew Barron will be keenly contested.

Winnaleah full-forward Steven Barron is the class forward in the competition and may prove to be the difference between two evenly matched teams vying for second place on the ladder.

The improving St Helens takes on Ringarooma, which opened its account last week.

Bay coach Jobie Watts believes that once his team improves its fitness levels, it will be a legitimate finals contender.

With Darren Oates, Shane Johns, Leighton Jordan and Warren Barker back playing, Watts has good reason to be optimistic.

The Robins won last week but their coach Tim Foon will understand that his team faces a tougher challenge tomorrow.

Jai Burke and Glenn Hodgetts have impressed, but more will be required from the midfielders against St Helens.

The Bay has a more balanced line-up at this stage and will start favourites.

The Scottsdale Crows will host Lilydale.

Last week, the Crows fielded a team with seven players under the age of 17 and their enthusiasm and energy cannot be questioned.

But the lack of experience and depth will be exposed against the Demons, who are a team on a mission to appease the disappointment of their unexpected defeat in last year's grand final.

Bridport has the bye.