After a week of soul searching and digging deep for answers, both the Devon Homes Wanganui Athletic 1sts and Reserves will be looking to put their hand up and say "we belong here", as they face seemingly insurmountable challenges this weekend in the Lotto Federation League and Western Premiership respectively.
The Athletic Reserves travel to Levin's Donnelly Park today to face Levin AFC in what will be a big physical test for the developing young side.
Levin were victorious in 12 of their 18 matches in last season's edition of the Western Premiership, and recorded a 1-all draw against Linton last weekend, giving them a solid start to their 2016 season.
The Reserves will be hoping to bounce back after last weekend's disappointing 10-0 defeat at the hands of the Red Sox Manawatu A's and know Levin will put up a physical challenge that they may not be able to match.
However, Reserves coach Cliff Hughes will likely be taking a positive approach to developing his charges and preparing them for today's match while ensuring they have been instilled with plenty of self-belief in the talents they possess.