EDGEWORTH

COACH: Damian Zane. 2018: 1st (grand finalists). LOSSES: Lachlan Pasquale, Jamie Byrnes (Charlestown), Bailey Garland. GAINS: Oliver Smith (Nunawading), Daniel Fabrizio (Belconnen), Josh Cairelli (Jets Youth), Aden Gardner (Charlestown), Callum Bower (Weston).

Eyeing a record-equalling fifth straight premiership, the Eagles have upped the ante with interstate attackers Fabrizio and Smith. Daniel McBreen (foot) will be missing early but the attack should still be strong. Their rock-solid defence, winning mentality and consistency will again put them in the mix. KEY: Attack: The defence will be excellent again, but the new-look attack is the unknown.

CHARLESTOWN

COACH: David Tanchevski. 2018: 6th. LOSSES: Ljubo Milicevic, Danny Ireland (retired), Daniel Minors (Lakes), Aden Gardner (Edgeworth), Daniel Ott (work). GAINS: Nathan Archbold (Brisbane Strikers), Lachlan Pasquale (Edgeworth), Max Vegter (Terrigal).

The Blues led after nine rounds last year but faded as injuries hit. Gun striker Kane Goodchild played only 10 games and Milicevic and Ireland were gone mid-season. Still, they missed the finals by just one win. They could easily push higher with better luck on the injury front. KEY: Fitness: The Blues need to keep their best line-up on the field consistently. If they do, anything is possible.

Check out the form of the other NPL teams here.

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