Woonona coach Dan McGoldrick believes Saturday's showdown against Wollongong United will provide his in-form Sharks squad with the perfect early season litmus test.
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McGoldrick's men have hit the ground running this season as they look to avoid another relegation scrap in 2019.
The Sharks currently sit in the top five after the opening three rounds and will welcome finals contenders United to Ocean Park this weekend.
"This will be a solid test for us there is no doubt about it," McGoldrick said,.
"Last year they would have come to us with the idea that they would win both games against us but I think teams are starting to realise we aren't such a soft touch this season. We can match it with the top sides."
Woonona highlighted their resurgent form with a massive mid-week FFA Cup win over NSW National Premier League Men's 2 high flyers Spirit FC.
It came after the Sharks knocked off the previously unbeaten Port Kembla in the league last weekend.
"Confidence is high," McGoldrick said.
"I thought we were pretty good value for that win during the week. The good thing was we trained on Tuesday and Thursday night as well.
"The boys are in good spirits."
Meanwhile, Fernhill will host Cringila, Port face off against South Coast and Albion Park meet Coniston in Saturday's other matches.
On Sunday, Bulli and Tarrawanna both put their unbeaten records on the line while Corrimal Rangers battle Wollongong Olympic.
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