The Rats’ first win of the season came against Dimboola last round and the Ararat side could put the second-placed Demons under some serious pressure on Saturday. 

While the Rats were solid winners last round, the Demons prevailed by a solitary point against the Nhill Tigers. 

Last time the two sides met, the Demons scored more than 100 points to trump the Rats line-up. 

Demons coach Brad Hartigan said  the Rats would be a tough team to beat. 

“They are always a good side against us,” he said. 

“They will be pressing to win the ball a lot and I expect them to try and take it out to their wings.” 

The interleague break could not have come at a better time for the Demons with Hartigan saying his side had some sore bodies. 

“We are fully fit for the game,” he said. 

“We have been working mainly on close, quick play with inside handballs a key part of training.” 

The midfield for Demons has been outstanding this season with Nic Pekin having a great year up front. 

Rhona Conboy has been solid in the backline. 

Hartigan said manning up would be the key to winning. 

“Ararat’s wide players can really hurt teams,” he said.