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If Ottens stood alone as tall timber for the Cats, his influence would not pose such a major threat.

However, the Selkirk Roosters will also need to deal with Charlie Gardiner and Henry Playfair in an attack full of big marking power.

So it comes as no surprise to see North Ballarat coach Gerard FitzGerald contemplating using youngster Justin Hardy at centre half back.

Not only does the teenager have the height, he also has the mobility and importantly growing confidence after shining against Tasmania on Sunday.

Shaune Moloney will be there to lend support as will Jesse Smith, who is improving with every game after basically missing all last year with an ankle injury.

The athletic Smith probably needs just one standout performance to force him back into the Kangaroos line-up in the AFL.

North Ballarat has its own big manpower in attack with Orren Stephenson and Tristan Cartledge floating between the ruck and forward line.

The Roosters used a three-pronged attack to bring down the Cats at Geelong last year, with Nathan Saunders, Sav Rocca and Brent Le Cras all getting among the goals.

All three are gone now and it will be up to the likes of Jacob Spolding, Stevie Dinnell and Rob Gregg to complement Stephenson and Cartledge.

FitzGerald sees this match as a major test with Geelong possessing so many AFL-listed players, including Steve Johnson, who is another who will take some stopping.

But FitzGerald is not for one moment believing North Ballarat cannot bring up its third win in the fourth round battle. As long as the Roosters remain disciplined and run hard and straight, and kick long and direct, they can set their season up with a top three position firmly held down.

THIS WEEKEND'S VFL GAMES

TODAY: Northern Bullants v Werribee, Port Melbourne v Bendigo Bombers, Tasmania v Frankston.

TOMORROW: Geelong v North Ballarat, Sandringham v Casey Scorpions.