The fixture shapes as a big challenge for the Strikers, with their rivals having won the Women’s Premier League finals series in 2015 before failing to obtain a place in the newly-formed Women’s National Premier League competition.

Ballarat assistant coach Laura Brady, who takes over the head role while Rick Romein recovers from knee surgery, said it’s a battle her team is looking forward to.

“The club is eager to play against the highest level possible and South Melbourne provide that opportunity,” Brady said.

While the starting team is unchanged, the Strikers have gained some depth with Vanessa Yung coming back into contention for a spot on the bench.

Despite missing three weeks of training, Brady said the left-footer looked like she had not been away in both sessions during the week and is likely to fight hard to regain her spot in the team.

Brady said the only doubt going into the match centres around goal-keeper Kate Lyons, who has been hit by a viral infection this week.

However, the club is hopeful she will recover in time to take her spot between the posts on Sunday.

Ballarat opened its Football Federation Victoria women’s state league one campaign with a 5-1 victory over Lara United last weekend and shot straight to the top of the table.