Reigning premier North Ballarat City will host Redan in a blockbuster clash on Saturday night, in what will be the only night game to be played in Ballarat this year.

Harsh weather seems destined for Eureka Stadium, meaning both sides will be forced to battle both the elements and their opposition in the quest for victory.

North City will unfurl its 2014 premiership flag for its first match of the season, having faced the bye in the opening round.

However, their pre-season has been nothing short of demanding.

They have played practice matches against both of last year’s grand finalists in the strong Geelong Football League (Colac and Leopold), as well as VFL side Northern Blues.

“We’ve known we have the bye first up the whole time so we’ve been ready all preseason,” coach Rob Waters said.

The reigning premiers will be without Ryan Luke who was suspended during a practice game, while Tyler George will miss with a hamstring injury.

Leading goalkicker Shaun Lyle will also be out of action, selected to make his debut for North Ballarat Roosters. The ruck stocks will also be put to the test, with Tristan Cartledge and Josh McDermott no longer at the club.

Waters said he would most likely rotate between the Campana twins (Lou and Serge) in the ruck throughout the year, as well as Zac Kennedy.

The clash will also be Simon McCartin’s first as North City captain and Ben Hurley’s first senior match.

On the maroon and gold front, there is mixed news for the Lions selection-wise.

Wise heads Dean Chester and Damien Horbury will play their first games for the year, set to perform as steadying hands as two of the elder statesmen in the side.

However, full-back Patrick Britt will miss with a minor knee injury, while Dan Colbert could be out for a month with a broken hand sustained at training during the week.

Star midfielder Chris Giampaolo will also be monitored until Saturday afternoon as he tries to recover from a corked thigh.

Nathan Horbury will also continue to be unavailable for selection, yet to be cleared from North Ballarat Roosters. Horbury has started training with the Roosters but as yet still can’t play for his home club.

Redan coach Eammon Gill conceded his side would be below full strength, but as ever, was confident with the depth within the maroon and gold ranks.

“I don’t think either of us will be at full strength, but both clubs have always had pretty good depth,” he said. “North had the bye last week, but I don’t think that will make any difference to them.”

PREDICTION: North City in a relatively scrappy affair.

patrick.nolan@fairfaxmedia.com.au