The Brisbane Lions Reserves will head to Spotless Stadium in Sydney this Saturday to face the second-placed UWS Giants in their final NEAFL clash for 2014.

Although the Lions aren’t in finals contention, the match – which will be played as a curtain raiser to the Giants’ senior AFL match against Collingwood – could still have a profound impact on the make-up of the top six.

The Giants are currently in a tight battle with the NT Thunder and Sydney Swans Reserves for a top-two finish, however a loss would almost guarantee that they slip to third.

More importantly for the Lions, it gives them a chance to finish their campaign on a high with three straight wins.

Lions Reserves Coach Leigh Harding said there were plenty of incentives for his side to put in a good showing against the Giants, who might be a touch vulnerable following a spate of injuries to some of their senior players.

“We haven’t beaten (the Giants) all year, and the boys will remember that,” Harding told lions.com.au.

“They’ve also suffered a few injuries, which will hurt probably their reserves team.

“It’s away from home, so it gives our boys a good chance to travel away together and continue developing that family-type bond.

“To finish the season off with three straight wins would be a great springboard for these guys into next season.”

Harding also suggested that the clash would also give his young troops a chance to compete against fellow AFL-listed talent – many of whom they might eventually cross paths with at senior level.

“They have an exciting young list, as we do, so you might find that some of these players will meet each other again down the track in the AFL careers,” he said.

The Lions’ team will be without Ash McGrath, who has been recalled for a farewell match with the seniors, while Marco Paparone is out with a shoulder injury. Any further changes to the side won’t be known until Friday evening.

The Lions, who are currently in ninth position on the NEAFL ladder, won’t be able to climb any higher, even if they happen to knock over the Giants.

A loss, however, could see them slip as low as 11th, depending on other results.

The Lions will face the Giants this Saturday 23 August at Spotless Stadium from 1pm (local time).