Otago United coach Malcolm Fleming has marshalled his strongest possible side to face Wellington in a New Zealand Football Championship match at Newtown Park tomorrow.
Otago has never won in Wellington, and it will require an effort similar to that which surprised Auckland at Carisbrook in the opening round for Fleming's crew to earn even a point.
"That is the key," Fleming said.
"We need to generate that same fighting spirit from all 11 players to match Wellington on their own ground.
"Anything less than total commitment, and we will be chasing shadows.
"But we know we can compete, and while it's a big ask, I am sure we can improve our points tally with at least a draw."
Otago will benefit from the return of midfielder Andy Coburn, back on deck after working off a two-match suspension from last year.
New signing Nathan Knox returned from the United States a week ago, and has been training hard to hit the track running against Wellington, where his height will give Otago's attack a new dimension, in partnership with Dave Dugdale.
Christchurch-based Dan Ede was the top goalscorer in Canterbury over the winter and could fill the gap left by the suspended James Reichwein, who did a top job as a targetman at Carisbrook.
Also missing from Otago's ranks will be feisty defender Rhys Henderson (unavailable) and defender Dave Shaw (Achilles injury).
Centrebacks Tim Horner and Chris Jenkinson were voted into a NZFC team of the week recently so their form will be a known factor as Wellington plans to break through Otago's defence.
Wellington coach Stu Jacobs recruited heavily to make an impact in the NZFC this year, but is now stuck without a win or a competition point on the bottom of the table.
He will be looking for his season to take off against Otago.
Wellington's quality is illustrated by the return of two All Whites from World Cup duty.
Midfielder Andy Barron and reserve goalkeeper James Bannatyne illustrate the team's pedigree and Otago must beware the quick feet of Solomon Islander striker Michael Fifii.
In a fierce derby match, top NZFC sides Auckland City and Waitakere United collide at Kiwitea Street.
Both teams have made unbeaten starts to the season and will be eager to continue that form ahead of their respective Club World Cup and O-League commitments.
Tomorrow will also be a busy day for Otago United at Logan Park, where the club's annual meeting will be held at 11am.
Chairman Dave Lamont will explain the costs and complications of surviving at the top level in the NZFC.
Otago Utd v Wellington Wellington, tomorrow, 2pm
Otago: James Waggett, Tristan Prattley, Chris Jenkinson, Tom Sadd, Robbie Deeley, Stu Kelly, Ryan Faichnie, Dave Dugdale, Andy Coburn, Brian Brown, Dan Ede, Tom Connor, Morgan Day, Tim Horner, Nathan Knox.
Wellington: James Bannatyne, Adam Birch, Jamie Duncan, Chris Bale, Michael Winsauer, Chris Davies, Cole Peverley, Greg Draper, Jyler Noviello, Bryan Little, Darren Cheriton, Garry McDermott, Trent Watson, Andy Barron, Richard McLay, Michael Fifii, James McPeake, Roddy Brown.
