The Rats lost to ladder-leaders Horsham last week but coach Shane Fisher will be expecting a strong response from the team against Nhill who have won one game this season.

The home team are starting to get some key players back into the senior squad

Fisher said while the ladder positions were quite different, the Rats will not be underestimating the Tigers.

“Nhill are a little bit inconsistent but we will certainly be treating it like they’ll have a good week against us,” he said.

“It might be a bit of a sloppy match if the conditions continue on like the past couple of days, but hopefully it clears up.”

Ararat is expected to get Jack Ganley back into the senior team along with Jake Williamson but will lose Jayden Wright with a shoulder injury.

Fisher said the team is firmly focused on getting a win to go into the bye with a 6-2 record.

“On and off the field has been a bit of a challenge this week,” he said.

“We have really united as a group on the training track and look forward to putting in a good team performance on Saturday.”

First bounce is scheduled for 2.20pm.