Fresh from disposing of premiership contenders Hume City 1-3 last Sunday week, the Cannons expect a big turnout at Jack Edwards Reserve for their match against the third-placed Eagles, which kicks off at 5.30.

Anastasiadis' message to the fans was simple: don't expect this to be easy.

"This is the toughest game of the season so far. Richmond are a very good side, across the park they are strong, and we will need to be on top of our game."

Richmond coach Michael Chatzitrifonos said he was expecting an attacking, highly competitive match.

"I rate them (Oakleigh) as one of the better teams in the VPL. I saw them last weekend against Hume City and they were very impressive."

Anastasiadis said the good news for the Cannons was that everyone was fit and he would have a full-strength bench.

"The pleasing thing for us is our players coming off the bench are winning games for us; it's not just about the 11 on park, which is great to see."