WODONGA Raiders coach Jarrod Hodgkin admits his side couldn't have been handed a tougher round one assignment than Wangaratta on Good Friday.
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But the 2019 Morris Medallist says the Raiders are excited rather than overawed by the challenge at Birallee Park.
Officials are expecting a big crowd for the 5pm match with 17 and 18-year-olds Max Beattie and Alex Pocock among a long list of players coming into the team.
Scott Meyer, Steve Jollifffe, Isaac Muller, Tim Haines, Jacob Smith, Mitch Thomas and Tyrell Lui will also be debuting or returning to the club.
Jydon Neagle will miss the clash due to a suspension in the SANFL.
Hodgkin said midfield pressure would be vital against Wangaratta.
"We will have a primary focus around the footy and, if we can get on top in the midfield, it makes our forwards and backs jobs much easier," Hodgkin said.
NT recruits Lui and Abraham Ankers will debut for the Raiders and Wangaratta.
