SUNS winger Ben Jepson concedes there’ll be a little extra motivation heading into Saturday’s VFL clash against local rivals Southport.

The Sharks will host the SUNS in the latest edition of the Mackenzie Cup, honouring the late Dr Alan Mackenzie who played integral roles at both organisations.

Jepson, who joined the SUNS as an SSP selection earlier this year from the Sharks says Saturday’s clash at Fankhauser Reserve is a chance for his new side to build momentum.

“[To get the win] It would be good, really set us up. We've had one good win and then a close loss, so hopefully we can just continue our good form from the last game and really set us up for the next good block of games,” Jepson said.

“It's weird playing with them for a whole year and playing on this ground so many times. There’s a little bit more motivation this week, but it's going to be good fun.”

The two sides have met six times in the VFL, splitting those meetings at three wins apiece with the Sharks currently holding the Mackenzie Cup following 47-point win last season.

Southport sit atop the VFL ladder with three wins from as many games, but Jepson says the 1-1 SUNS have the talent to secure a win that would fire them into the top 8.

“We’ve got quite a few of the AFL boys who have been playing quite well. Ned Moyle in the ruck has been quite impressive and then we’re led by our captain James Tsitas who’s been really good showing the way for the younger boys,” Jepson added.

“They’re a really established side as well and coming here from the Sharks last season, I know quite a bit about them.

“There’ll be a bit of stick and banter out there. But it’s just a game of footy, I won’t be mates with them for a couple of hours, but I definitely will be afterwards.

Saturday’s VFL match gets underway at 12:05pm at Fankhauser Reserve. Catch all the action live via the Official AFL & VFL websites and apps.