Johnson was superb in last week's loss to Corowa-Rutherglen, kicking five of the team's 14 goals.

"I think 'Yarra' will do their research and probably target Tom, I reckon he'll get double-teamed. so there's an opportunity for somebody else to step up," Wodonga defender Charlie Morrison said.

Yarrawonga will start favourites, but if Wodonga can get enough ball to Johnson, the home team could spring an upset.

The Pigeons will be desperate though as they're the only team to lose both matches, but the Bulldogs are also hungry after showing enormous improvement in their opening game after claiming the wooden spoon.

"It's a huge game for us, a make or break game at the start of the year," Morrison added.

ALSO IN SPORT:

The Pigeons recalled Sam Schulz and Tyler Bonat from injury for the 5pm game.

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