Federal has emerged as the main challenger to the Blues’ quest for back-to-back flags after defeating Cudgewa by 10 points in round 5.

However, the Swans were buoyed by the one-off appearance of the Nelson twins, Chris and Justin, and Evan Hocking on that occasion.

The trio were instrumental in inflicting the Blues’ only defeat of the season so far.

Lezius said Saturday’s top-of-the- table clash would provide a better indication of both teams’ premiership credentials.

“Hocking killed us in the first round and he would have taken five marks across half-back, and that was just in the first quarter when they kicked seven goals to nothing,” he said.

“Those Nelson boys also hurt you because they just know how to find the footy.

“So it will be good to have a crack at the real Federal without the imports.

“We still came back pretty hard at them that game and outscored them by 35 points in the last three quarters.

“So we are pretty confident we can match them.”

In a further bonus, the Blues are expected to be buoyed by the return of premiership coach Bill Deery and ruckman Al Cleven, while Michael Voigt could also play his first game for the club this season after recently lodging a clearance from North Wangaratta.

Tumbarumba will start a warm fav- ourite against Corryong at Corryong.

Bullioh, after consecutive hefty losses, should rebound against Border-Walwa at Bullioh.