The Ballarat District Soccer Association reigning premiers have got off to a promising start in 2019, with two wins and a loss putting them third on the table.

But Pyke said it was crucial for his side to maintain momentum against their lower-ranked opponent.

"With two weeks off you almost have to start again," he said. "We took a relaxed approach to training over the break, because it's a long year and there's always a risk of burnout.

"But training will ramp up this week. So we're really banking on coming out and leaping into the middle of the season."

The goalkeeper-coach said Forest Rangers, currently seventh with just the one win, could present a challenge.

"They always bring pressure and physicality," he said. "It's just the nature of their club."

But Pyke believed getting the chance to play at Morshead Park, a synthetic pitch, would suit Warrnambool Rangers just fine.

For proof, he pointed to the club's last effort at the venue, a 7-1 drubbing of the Sebastopol Vikings in round two.

"We find it suits our game-style really well," Pyke said.

"You can play the ball mostly on the ground, which caters to our more technically-skilled players."

Pyke said new recruit Spike Pilcher, a pharmacist who moved from Melbourne to work in Mortlake, had already been turning heads this season.

The 27-year-old defender has played all three games so far and was awarded best-on-ground in Warrnambool's round three win over Victoria Park.

"Spike approached the club and we've been lucky to have him," Pyke said.

"He slotted into our back six really well. A tall player, but really strong with the ball on the ground - he's now cemented his spot in the side."

Pyke said while the odd illness came and went, Warrnambool Rangers had a clean bill of health.

And with 17 to 18 players in the senior mix, the squad also enjoys strong depth, meaning an injury or two wouldn't torpedo their chances of going back to back.

There's even two junior goalkeepers ready to step up in Ben Rogers and Oli Hammond should the captain be struck down.

But in the meantime, Pyke said he loved coaching from the net.

"I can see everything during the game - it's probably an advantage over other coaches," he said.

"If something isn't working then I'm the closest port of call, instead of having to wait for a stoppage."

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