The Panthers have adopted a unique approach in playing just the one trial, away to Myrtleford today.

Given last season was wiped out by COVID and at least half the clubs will play three matches, it will be intriguing to see how the premiers start the season.

A number of players are also unavailable, meaning some could potentially head into the season opening clash against Wangaratta Rovers without anything more than intraclub and simulated training form.

However, the bulk of the club's A graders will face the Saints.

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"Nick Meredith, Marty Brennan and Simon Curtis will all play," premiership captain Luke Garland, who will also play, said.

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Interestingly, one opposition coach is adopting a softly-softly approach.

"We don't want to put any pressure on the players, having had 12 months off," Rovers' Daryn Cresswell said.