The Bombers have only managed to beat the winless Wodonga Saints so far this season and face the tall task of knocking off competition heavyweights Mitta United at home on Saturday.

While the results haven’t gone to script, DMB coach Ben Mitchell hopes the side can be competitive and continue to improve every game until season’s end. 

“It’s a very important day for the club to reconnect with our past players and supporter base,” Mitchell said.

“The playing group has spoken about the importance of putting on a competitive performance.

“Mitta, as always, are a very strong outfit and it’s important that we put on a good display for all the people attending.”

Mitchell admits the side has shown plenty of signs of improvement since this time last year, but still aren’t happy with we’re they’re at.

“We’ve had some games where we’ve been right in the contest until the last quarter, whereas last year we weren’t in those games at all,” he said.

“We’re staying in games longer and when we play good footy, we can string some good quarters together and kick goals.

“There’s been a level of improvement there, but, on the flip side, our worst footy, especially in the last two weeks, we’ve been shown up a couple of times and we’ve been really disappointed with that.

“We’re not going to pretend that it’s okay and we’re keen to be a bit more competitive this week.

“It’s very important that we finish the season off improving each week, rather than just playing it out.”

Thirds prospects Charlie Ryder, Ben Paddle and Jacob Ozolins have all played senior footy for the Bombers this year and have added an extra element.

Mitchell is hopeful of getting one or two of them in the side this week.

“We’ve been lucky enough to play some of our thirds for a few of the games this year, and, when they’re in the side, they’ve had a bit of that youthful enthusiasm,” he said.

“We’d like to give two of them another go this week because it will be a great experience for them to play on a big day for the club at home and play against a side like Mitta.”

League leaders Thurgoona meet Wahgunyah at home after thrashing Wodonga Saints last weekend.

Rutherglen take on Yackandandah to keep its spot in the top two.

Tallangatta will look to bounce back from its tight loss to the Roos with a win over the out of sorts Chiltern.

Kiewa-Sandy Creek will start heavy favourites against Beechworth, while Barnawartha should continue its strong run of form against Wodonga Saints.