Last time they met: Round 2, 2014. Horsham 12.17 (89) d 11.9 (75).

HORSHAM coach Jordyn Burke is confident his side can bounce back from its first loss of the season on Sunday - but he is aware the task will not be easy.

The Demons will meet Horsham Saints in a massive Pelican Cup clash at Coughlin Park, Horsham.

Burke said his charges were excited about the opportunity to get back on the winners' list.

"We've got a few injury concerns, but the boys have responded from the loss a couple of weeks ago, so we'll go in fairly confident," he said.

"The loss to Warrack burnt a few of the players and hopefully they'll take that into this week's match."

The Demons will be without Rhona Conboy, elbow, and Sean Christopher, groin.

"Having two big blokes out is a bit of a loss, we'll need the boys coming in to step up and do their job," Burke said.

The Saints are coming off consecutive wins against Minyip-Murtoa, Stawell and Dimboola.

Saints coach Shane Breuer said his charges were keen to continue their form by claiming another important scalp.

"We had a good win against Dimboola a fortnight ago because we played well for four quarters," he said.

"We know Horsham is going to be hard to beat, but we know we can beat them if we have everyone playing well."

Breuer is hopeful star midfielder Pat Knott and key defender Dennis Adams will pass fitness tests in time for Sunday.

Regardless, he is asking for a strong contribution from all 21 of his men.

"We need everyone up and going," he said.

"If we get everyone up and going that's when we play our best footy - which is what we're going to need."

Breuer said the Saints would also work on improving their skills after basic errors against the Roos resulted in turnovers.

"You can't afford turnovers against teams such as Horsham they'll hurt you on the way back," he said.

The Demons have a number of players in exceptional form, including Nick Pekin and John Wood who are having a major impact in the midfield and up forward.

Burke said he hoped Pekin would be at his dangerous best and that Aaron Barnett - who is stepping up after impressing in the reserves - would provide some X-factor.

The Demons defenders will have plenty to contend with, with the league's leading goal-kicker Gavin Kelm firing and Les Butler and Matt Combe also providing solid contributions.

Lack of height might also be an issue with Saints ruckman Michael Rowe in scintillating form.

Demon Michael O'Callaghan is likely to line up on him at some stage.

The Pelican Cup is played in honour of his late father, John 'Pelican' O'Callaghan, a former Horsham premiership player and Horsham Saints premiership coach.

Burke said it would be a huge day.

"It's something we look forward to and it's a good opportunity to remember someone who meant a lot to both clubs," he said.

"When you've got something like that on the line, you don't want to lose."