The Navy Blues play Moreland Zebras away on Saturday after a run of three home games.

While head coach James Robinson would have preferred to pick up more than the three points from the Morshead Park fixtures, he is pleased with the progress City FC is making.

He believes a victory in this fixture could give Ballarat some real momentum ahead of another three consecutive home games.

Robinson has every reason to think his players can get the job done too after promising signs against leading outfit North Geelong and that Moreland has a similar record to City FC.

Ballarat has one win in its four outings, while the Zebras having a win and draw.

Robinson indicated there was a need for patience as a new-look team settled, given up to eight players had made their NPL debuts this season.

He has been encouraged by the efforts of teenagers Jordan Lauton, Nedeljko Mitrovic, who is coming off his debut, and Jalil Regague.

Robinson said they were adjusting to their roles and it was all about giving them as much pitch time as possible to build on their experience and develop game sense at this level.

Japanese import Riki Hosoai should pose a real threat to Moreland Zebras.

He has already found the back of the net four times. - showing that if his teammates can provide the service he will deliver.

The experienced Daniel Tinker returns for the trip to Moreland, with the start of his season being managed after an interrupted pre-season.

Robinson said it was yet to be determined what role Tinker would play.