Despite going into the clash without a host of big-name players due to injury and unavailability, Saker said the signs had been positive in recent wins over North Albury and Wangaratta.

“It’s been hard to settle a side this year because of one thing or another,” he said.

“But I think the good thing is that it’s shown we still have good depth at the club.

“There won’t be any excuses with the team we have picked to play the Wodonga Raiders.

“I have a lot of faith in the boys playing their role.

“There are players out and coming back through the reserves.

“The competition is going to be on for spots after the interleague bye.”

While the extent of some injury lists have been exaggerated this season, the same cannot be said for the Panthers.

Lavington will go into today’s clash without Luke Garland, Adam Butler, Sam Harris, Kade Stevens, Jamarl O’Sullivan and Zach Hopper while Myles Aalbers, Lewis Gardiner and Sam Hargreave are pressing for selection in the reserves after interrupted starts to the season.

Matt Pendergast will return after a month on the sidelines while Justin Koschitzke has served a two-match suspension.

Despite a poor performance in the wet against North Albury, Wodonga Raiders have been rock solid under Daryn Cresswell, with the former AFL star hopeful of a big showing against the Panthers.

“Although we lost last week and were really disappointed, we gained some confidence from challenging one of the best teams in the competition,” Cresswell said.

“I thought we took a lot out of that game.

“Lavington also has been strong team over a long period of time and it’s another big test for us.”

Meanwhile, Lavington has appointed Shane Jeffs as coach of its third grade team after parting company with Rod Garthwaite during the week.