Zebras have not lost since, winning 14 of 15 matches to claim the title with three weeks to spare and while United have been brought back down to earth, they have more than justified the club's decision to take on statewide action.

"Top four was our pre-season target, we have seven wins plus a cup final appearance and that is a successful season for sure," said co-coach Frank Compton.

"We've learned that nothing stays the same for too long in this league. Win a few or lose a few you always need a fresh mentality to go again - you cannot rest on your laurels.

"You know you're in for a tough game every week and that means it's a good competitive league.

"I think a few teams have done their homework on us and that's part of football. We have to adapt to that and find a plan B or C and we're working on that.

"But teams now know we belong and are a threat if they let us play."

Compton believes United will have to win their remaining three fixtures if they are to finish second beginning with Zebras, the undoubted benchmark team.

Nichola Clark is likely to be unavailable due to work commitments but Madi Gilpin has made a successful return from a broken wrist and Karla Jones is set to come back off the bench.

"It's up in the air where Madi will play but we hope to get a full 90 minutes out of her," Compton added.