In what is set to be the match of the season, Epsom will host Strathdale in the battle for outright top spot on the Football Federation Victoria central region division one ladder at Epsom-Huntly reserve tomorrow.Epsom began the season in stunning fashion, winning its first five games and notching up 23 goals.The Scorpions looked set to be the team to beat this season.Epsom head coach Kevin Merchant said tomorrow’s clash with the Blues will be fast and tough.“I’d say it’s going to be a fairly fast match because both teams have fairly young players,” he said.“It’s likely to be a defensive game too, because both teams might not want to take the risk.“I think the first half an hour is going to be just both teams checking out each other’s play.”Merchant said his team’s 2010 success had come as a result of impressive performances from several up-and-coming players, who will be important in tomorrow’s big match.“We’ll be playing a few of the younger guys this week.“Probably our best players have been at our defence end, including Steve McKenzie who is one of our younger players.“Brett Quinn is another one who will have a go this week in midfield and defence.”Strathdale had a slower start to the season, but have struck form in recent games, winning its past four consecutive matches.The Blues have overcome the loss of some key players to injury.Strathdale head coach Neil Phillips said although the team was not at full-strength, the Blues were determined to play their best football.“Four of our top five are out this week,” he said.“But our seconds are on top of the ladder, so we’ll be promoting some of them for this week’s match.“Fergus (Rawluk) has scored six goals since he’s been promoted to division one and he kicked five in the reserves before that.“We’re still going to be determined and put on a really good match.”In other matches, Spring Gully will need to overcome Castlemaine at home to stay in touch with Epsom and Strathdale, with the team only a win behind the top two teams. Gully fought hard last week to secure a win over Moama Border Raiders and will need to back it up this weekend in Castlemaine.Eaglehawk will face Swan Hill’s young side at home this week while the Moama Border Raiders will host Golden City, who are still yet to win a game this season.In the women’s championship, Epsom and Strathdale should have a great contest on the Scorpions’ turf.Meanwhile, A-League teams Melbourne Victory and Melbourne Heart will be in Bendigo this month.Victory players will be at the Bendigo Lawn Tennis Club on Saturday, July 17 to watch the small-sided games.The day will include autograph signing and participating in games with the youngsters.Melbourne Heart’s festival in Bendigo will kick off July 20.The three-day festival will include clinics with primary and secondary school students, a clinic for the disadvantaged, a girls-only clinic, along with sessions for coaches, and matches.The on-field action will include the Bendigo All Stars taking on the Victoria Police team.