The Rebels have suffered two losses to start the season, but last week’s 39-point loss, where they only scored one point, to a strong Geelong side was a disappointing result.

Key player Sophie Van de Heuvel is unavailable due to cricket grand final commitments while Katie McAloon and Tessa Marra are also out – Jordie and Aily McAuliffe come into the side.

Greater Western Victoria and Bendigo met in a pre-season practice in what was an evenly-matched hit-out.

Newly-appointed coach Rhys Cahir said he expected a tight contest and was hoping to post its first victory.

He said movement from the stoppage and converting inside 50s to scores had been a focus.

“It could go either way, so we’re hopeful to be a bit more competitive than what we were last week,” Cahir said.

“Just be a bit more proactive than reactive...and once we’re inside 50, work a bit harder to create a bit of scoreboard pressure.”