The two teams clashed last year in the semi-finals, with Sebastopol victorious after a late goal in extra time.

The Saints will be keen to erase last season's finals loss and spring into action with a youthful and speedy line-up.

The club will greatly miss the talent and composure of Tobias Schmidt and Stuart Bates, but has gained Neil Sweeper and Sam Berrins to add to its squad's depth Sweeper has spent many years playing soccer for quality teams, while Berrins is a new signing from Creswick. Berrins

is expected to support the valiant Nulty duo of Jack and Dylan up foward

The Saints are hoping to build on last years semi-final appearance and will need to be more consistent and dedicated.

The club is in a re-building phase after nearly having to forfeit the season two years ago due to a lack of players.

The Saints have faired well in their two practice matches, defeating both Castlemaine and Creswick in successive weeks, and showed they can play dazzling and entertaining soccer when the team is hearty and focused.

The match against Castlemaine was a good result, given the Saints were down 3-1 at halftime and given that Castlemaine fields a strong team in the competitive Bendigo league.

The club is looking for more players urgently, old and new, to join the team for the 2009 season, to ensure the club stays competitive and viable.

Contact: 0422 605 953.