In their only game at the ground this season, three Albury players have been selected in the line-up and another 12 from Ovens and Murray clubs.

“We have 15 boys from Ovens and Murray clubs this week so we certainly see it as a home game and advantage for us,” Higgins said.

“It’s a great ground and hopefully we can play well there.”

The Bushrangers play their other home matches at Wangaratta and Shepparton.

Albury’s Fletcher Carroll has returned after some strong performances for NSW and the Allies while Wodonga’s Mason Marr has recovered from a cork.

The biggest losses are in-form big-men Esava Ratugolea and Max Lynch.

They have made the Victorian Country and Allies sides after destroying Bendigo Pioneers with their powerful marking and ruck work last week.

Higgins said Ratugolea had been outstanding since returning from a knee problem.

“He’s been tremendous,” Higgins said.

“It was only his third or fourth game back and he’s been playing well against good opposition.

“It all fell into place for him last week.

“He probably could have kicked 10.”

Eastern Ranges are 14 premiership points behind the fourth-placed Bushrangers and are coming off disappointing losses to Calder Cannons, Sandringham and North Ballarat.

“Like most TAC Cup sides, they like to play attacking footy,” Higgins said.

“They will get a few back from school football and we’re expecting a really tough game.”

The match kicks off at 12pm.

In other clashes, Gippsland Power meet Western Jets, the Rebels meet Sandringham, Bendigo host Northern Knights Dandenong do battle with Calder and ladder leader Geelong take on Oakleigh.