Wanderers have traditionally fielded well-drilled teams who work hard and make the most of their advantages.
Meanwhile, Gisborne United have won games that, at the start, they seemed to have no chance of winning.
For at least the past decade they have had strikers who scored goals seemingly at will. That, allied to a direct approach and fighting spirit, means they can never be counted out.
In recent years they have included more intricate passing in their arsenal without abandoning the long ball that turns defenders, and makes them chasers rather than interceptors.
Injuries could cause problems this weekend. Defender Malcolm Marfell, midfielder Corey Adams and striker Campbell Hall have been varying levels of “sore” this week.
That’s a familiar problem, but United this year are blessed with a big – and gifted – squad.
Josh Harris has trained this week and could return to duty in midfield, alongside Matt Hills, Cullen Spawforth and skipper Dane Thompson.
Prolific striker Jimmy Somerton might be without Hall’s bustling assistance, but Jacob Adams and utility player Kauri Holmes could step in.
At the back, Mal Scammell and Kieran Higham will anchor the defence, and Josh Adams will continue in goal.
Thistle coach Tam Cramer has a bigger squad this week.
Centre back Junior Jimmy is available, as are midfielder Euan Cramer and defender Aiden Norris.
The Jags come up against unbeaten opposition, Maycenvale having a two-win/one draw record so far.
They have a livewire striker, Dakota Lucas, who will test any defence in this league, and Maycenvale know how to get the best out of him ... put him on the field and let him go.
Leo Starck, coming off an outstanding game for the Jags last week, is likely to start in midfield, with Luke Jarvie and Nick Land also likely to feature.
At the back, Louis Sengelow and Jimmy will likely be partnered by fullbacks Travis White and Jonas Klessney, although Cramer is keeping quiet about the final look of his line-up.
Two positions can be confidently predicted, though. Drew Churchwell will be in goal and skipper Leo Maisey will be up front, health and fitness allowing.
