SO tight are places in the bottom half of the Ballarat Football League top six that Ballarat could finish the home-and-away season anywhere between sixth and fourth.

For at least part of the equation, the Dahlsens Swans' destiny will be in their own hands as they take on Lake Wendouree at Dahslens Park tomorrow.

Ballarat had the better of the Lakers last time the teams met in round 11, but Swans' coach John Northey said the stakes are now raised as the two teams battle for position in the finals.

"We have three teams from six, fifth and fourth all vying for a stronger position," Northey said.

"We have to win, it's the most important thing. The rewards for winning will be very good for us - a much better run in the finals.

"It is an important game for Lake Wendouree as well, so we're expecting a very torrid tussle."

If it can beat the Lakers, Ballarat will be looking to the results of the "other" big match of the round between Melton South and Sunbury, for its chance to move up the ladder. But that only comes into play if the Swans win at home.

Ballarat has been strengthened by the return of Aaron Brennan from an illness. Josh Caldow comes back from North Ballarat due to the Roosters' reserves having a bye, while Corey Grills and Daniel Thompson come up from the reserves.

Lake Wendouree's team looks far more settled. Ben Taylor and Les Hughes come in for Chris Madden and Michael Davies.

Northey said one reason for the gulf between the Swans' best and worst had been the team's inability to field the same 21 each week. That and the team's relative inexperience compared with last season.

"We haven't had one week this year when we have been able to name the same side as the previous week," Northey explained.

"Last year we had maybe a bit more experience too, compared with this year. We are missing a few players like Mathew Battistello, Ryan Harris and Danny Finn from last season, so we are behind at this point in terms of experience.

"But I think the team is happy to be in the finals again and I'm sure we will give a fairly good account of ourselves. More than last year we can't rely on individuals, we need to have a team effort."

PREDICTION: Lake Wendouree by five points