Warrigals were too good for Keas on all three occasions when the sides clashed in the first half of the season.

However, as Keas looked to be on the improve winning two of their final three games, Warrigals were winless in their final three matches.

Injuries and player unavailability proved stumbling blocks for last season's defeated grand finalists and Warrigals coach Guy Constable said there were still some key players the club was hoping would help their run to the finals.

"It was pretty tough towards the end of the year with the injuries we had but we will hopefully be able to get those players back in coming weeks," he said.

"The players are eager and keen after the break and now it's about getting the fitness levels up, working on combinations and becoming a force as we get to the business end of the season."

For Keas, this second half of the season will be a chance to build on some encouraging performances and coach Andy Homuk will want to begin the year on a high.

A key figure in Keas' plans to notch its first win against Warrigals this season will be dynamic five-eighth John Monu.

Monu's impressive performances have lead Homuk to suggest the talented ball player has been the form pivot in the competition.

In a test of fitness after an extended layoff, both sides will be looking for disciplined and controlled performances.

n Kick-off 6.30pm at Rugby Park