Rangers out for redemption in clash with Saints

Rangers coach Chris Walker and Saints captain Troy Ward claim the two clubs have respect for one another but also recognise the importance of claiming the bragging rights.

"We want to win every game we play but of course there's added incentive when we take on the Rangers," Ward told the Argus.

"I want us to be able to capture the mind set and intensity we bring to this game and try and harness it every week."

The Saints earned a rare 1-0 victory over the Rangers earlier this season and Walker claims the defeat has added a bit of fuel to the fire to earn revenge.

"Obviously no matter who we played we would be keen for the three points, especially after two defeats in our last three games," Walker said.

"But after taking the loss against them earlier this year, we don't want that to repeat. We want to have the edge over them but obviously the focus is just on getting the three points."

Ward admits the Saints' victory over the Rangers earlier this season, their first win in six meetings, has given the side a real belief that they can beat Macleay Valley on a regular basis.

"Earning that win has definitely helped us, if not subconsciously, as we have that win against them and we know we can do it," Ward said.

"We head into the game quietly confident that we can produce a similar result."

Ward acknowledges it's easier said than done though and urged his players to try and be better than their opposite man.

"The Rangers are strong across the park, I would say they don't have a weakness," Ward said.

"It just comes down to everyone being better than the player they are marking. They have to take on the challenge and do their best to outplay them. If that happens then we will be celebrating after the game."

Walker had a similar view, as he wants his players to lift for the contest. However, the player-coach believes the Saints' improvement in the defensive end means his players will need to take their opportunities.

"They have always been strong offensively but this year they have tightened up at the back," Walker said.

"They have Jacob Lyttle in goals and that's a great starting block for any defence. They also have a great defensive line and it will be hard to crack.

"So for us, we will need to be switched on in attack and make our chances count."

The Rangers are in fourth and Saints in equal fifth on the ladder, but they are separated by eight competition points.

The Saints have only lost two games this season but have been forced to settle for five draws.

Meanwhile the Rangers, who have lost three games this year, have recorded six wins and only one draw.

Rangers enter the game without two key players as John Henry is unavailable while Sean Brucesmith injured his ankle in the 5-4 defeat to Wallis Lake last Saturday.

Walker is undecided on the forced changes he will make with numerous other players carrying niggling injuries.

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