The Panthers inflicted the only loss the Tigers suffered last year — by 12 points at Lavington Oval in one of the matches of the season in round 14 — an epic Prior missed with a knee injury.

Saturday will be the first time the heavyweights have met since.

The Tigers twice defeated Yarrawonga in finals after that to claim their fourth flag in six seasons.

But Prior was undaunted, saying the Panthers had the firepower to topple the Tigers again and end their unbeaten start to the season.

“I think we are a better side than 12 months ago,” Prior said.

“While our personnel hasn’t changed a lot, the improvement has come from our lesser lights.

“The blokes from 15-22 on our list have gone to another level this season.

“We boast a lot more depth.

“It was a good effort to beat Raiders before the interleague when we were undermanned.

“We should get a few back this week — there’s no reason why we can’t beat Albury.

“It’s fair to say Albury are just going at the minute and are only doing what they have to.

“But they will no doubt step it up a gear when they meet us.”

Albury will be without co-coach Chris Hyde (suspended), while key defender Jay Koehler is also in doubt with a hamstring injury.

The defending premiers will welcome back Setanta and Aisake o’hAilpin, who missed last round through suspension.

With Lavington likely to set up a “land of the giants” forward line containing Prior, Justin Koschitzke, Tom Yensch and Andrew Dess, the Tigers’ defence will be stretched if Koehler misses again.

The Panthers will be close to full strength, with inspirational coach James Saker (hamstring) the biggest loss.

They expect to regain Luke Garland (suspension), Adam Butler (hamstring) and Jamarl O’Sullivan.

And as a bonus, midfielder Kade Stevens could play his first match of the season in the reserves after breaking his wrist in last year’s finals.