Recent (2017 onwards) head-to-head record: Shepparton 4-1, including a 24-point victory in last year's preliminary final at Deakin Reserve.
Form line highlights: Echuca is undefeated against all teams other than Kyabram this season, giving it a 17-3 record. Shepparton has lost just once since Troy King took over as coach — last week against Kyabram — across a 6-1 record.
Key potential match-ups:
Ash Holland and Harry Boyd v Kane Morris and Jobee Warde — The ruck battle always goes a long way to deciding September fixtures at Deakin Reserve and Sunday will be no different.
Ted Lindon v Tim Allan — Shepparton's defensive pillar will have his hands full with Echuca's rotation of tall timber, but is likely to start on Allan.
Peter Faulks v Tom Boyd — If Echuca can curtail Shepparton's aerial entries it will go a long way to securing the side victory.
Sam Willoughby v Nick Allan — Blossoming star against wizened veteran, this should be a doozy.
Luke McKenna and Mitch Kemp v Jack Wilson and Jayden Gagliardi — McKenna and Kemp were crucial across half-back for Echuca in last week's win against Rochester. If Wilson and Gagliardi find top gear though the Murray Bombers may have to park their rebounding and focus solely on their direct opponents.
Extended team previews
Shepparton
Echuca
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