But resurgent City coach Ben Brookfield played down the friendly competition in favour of preparation for the League Cup playoffs ahead. 

“I think where we were this season at one stage, we had no illusions that they were going to finish ahead of us,” Brookfield said.

“So to even put ourselves back in the equation to finish ahead of Rangers is just an absolute credit to the unit.

“Obviously, we would like to win and go above them, but we have to be realistic to see what we can do.”

Rangers lead by two points and City would have to pull off a win over premiers South Hobart and – considering a seven-goal difference – hope that Rangers don’t collect a point off Hobart Zebras.

Brookfield said facing the best would embolden City that has climbed from last off four wins in five games.

“They ran away with the league, they’re the best in the league and our boys are quite keen to play them,” he said.

“What we have to see it as we’re playing a good team we could get in the playoffs.”

Rangers coach Lino Sciulli said his side had plenty to play for amid Saturday’s all-afternoon fixtures. 

But edging ahead of his old side isn’t a priority.

“It’s definitely not a dead round still,” Sciulli said.

“I’ll use it for (League Cup) preparation and also it’s an opportunity to play a couple of guys in different positions.”

Nick Lanau-Atkinson may rest a sore ankle following the captain’s four goals all the while others return to the fray before the cup format.

“The side’s coming back from some sickness, but we’ve still got a couple of guys sick,” Sciulli said.

“So we’re starting to get back to full strength now.”