CITY Colts are out to snap their two game losing streak when they meet Wangaratta Magpies at Barr Reserve.

The Colts started like a house on fire, jumping to the top of the ladder with a 3-1 record, however, losses to Ovens Valley United and Yarrawonga Mulwala sees them sit in fourth on the overall ladder.

City Colts stalwart Kent Braden said it's a crucial game for his side.

“It’s a very important game for us in the context of the season,” Braden said.

“We’ve had injuries and a few things against us in the past couple of weeks but every team could say the same thing.

“We’re a young team that’s a bit inconsistent at the moment and this year is about learning for us but in saying that we’re getting good performances out of some of our younger guys which is great to see.

“The loss to Ovens Valley was disappointing and then last weekend, I was out injured, but watching that game we had our chances but didn’t take them which happens with an inexperienced side.”

On the flip side, the Magpies have peeled off three straight wins (Yarrawonga Mulwala, Benalla Bushrangers, Beechworth Wanderers) and are the form side of the competition.

“I watched the end of their game last weekend when I was injured and they’re a very handy side with a lot of good one day players,” Braden said.

“Cooper (Matheson) looks to be leading them well so we’ll have our work cut out for us.

“They like to take the game on so we’ll need to cut down their scoring zones and try and put pressure on them with the ball.”

Braden, along with Josh Newton will return for the clash, while Mitch Giggins and Aaron Thrum go out.

Braden said a win would set his side up nicely to push for a finals berth.

“Every win you can get is so important this year because the competition’s so tight – it’s the tightest I’ve seen in years,” he said.

“You need to fight for every win you can get so you can finish in that top four.

“Once you get to finals anything can happen, particularly this year with the tightness of the competition.”