The much-improved Deakin University Sharks side will make the trip to Timboon today in the hope of a repeat of their round four, 40-point victory. 

But Hickey said they shouldn’t expect an easy run. 

“We won’t be taking them lightly,” he said. 

“We want to get one back at them and I’m sure that’s the motivation the boys will be using.” 

He said the last month had  been good for the Demons, constantly performing with increased intensity and being competitive against some of the league’s best sides. 

“Last week I thought we were competitive against Kolora for three quarters. We had good intensity,” he said. 

“If we can bring that again this week and a good four-quarter effort, we will be in with a chance. 

“We rely on the contested footy to create opportunities to score. When you put in the effort, you create those opportunities.’’ 

The Demons made two changes for the game, with ruckman Travis Brown missing with general soreness. Into the side comes under 17½ player Dylan Smith. 

Hickey said he expected today’s game to create opportunities for young players to stand up and take the lead. 

“Chris Vogels is moving into the centre for this week, so it would be good to see a big game from him,” he said. 

“He’s been handy all year without playing a big game, so it would be good to see him star. 

“All our onballers have been pretty consistent as well, so I’d be expecting something similar from them.” 

Deakin coach Trent Anderson tips  the game will come down to the wire. 

“I think it will be a good battle, it will go down to the final siren,” Anderson said. 

“They have improved over the past few weeks so I’m expecting them to be stronger than last time we played them.” 

Anderson said the Sharks onballers would be the key to the match. 

“That’s where we are winning our matches from,” he said. 

The Sharks have promoted Matthew Cameron and Adam Williams into the side for good performance in the reserves, while Kane O’Brien returns after being unavailable last week. They replace Tom Mock (thumb), James Wright and Nathan Parsons (both unavailable). 

In other matches today, Allansford will be aiming to end a run of poor form with a win over Panmure, South Rovers take on the improving Dennington and Russells Creek plays Nirranda. 

jwoolley@fairfaxmedia.com.au