Coming off a disappointing loss to Dubbo Westside last time out, Parkes Spacemen are hoping to get back on track with a win over Dubbo Macquarie at Jock Colley Field this Sunday.
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Losing at home to Westside 48-36 saw the Spacemen drop from the competition lead to second as they head into two very important matches.
After hosting Macquarie on Sunday, the Spacemen travel to Dubbo for a top of the table clash against CYMS the following week.
If the remaining matches go true to form, the CYMS clash could well decide the minor premiership.
Parkes captain-coach Dennis Moran said his side are not thinking about that yet.
“We are just taking it week by week,” Moran said.
“Macquarie are always tough and we will definitely need to be on our game to get the win.
“Hopefully we can step up, put in a good performance and get back on track,” he said.
The Spacemen ranks will be boosted by the return of star backrower Brandon Tago who will combine with in form Hayden Robinson and the ever present Epi Sadrodro to form a formidable back three.
Jordan Pope has enjoyed an excellent season so far and will move back into his more suited position of front row.
While Tago’s return is a welcome addition, the Spacemen will miss Tongan powerhouses Dave Masoe and Tino Ionatana who are away on international duty for the next two matches.
Ionatana has returned to the form of the past two seasons and will be a big loss.
Jake Porter will take over at hooker and will look to test the opposition defence around the ruck.
Player’s Player for the past two matches, Ben Nash will partner Pope and Porter at the front of the scrum and to continue his fine efforts.
A number of players have been in good form this season, none more so than custodian Sam Dwyer.
Dwyer has been rock solid in defence and is always a constant threat in attack.
“Everything is in place for us to make a run at the premiership, we just have to perform to our potential,” Moran added.
“If we get back to our structures and play our game, we will be very hard to beat.
“These next two games are crucial for us, but we will focus on Macquarie first and hopefully get the points on Sunday afternoon,” Moran said.
Parkes Spacemen first grade kick-off on Jock Colley Field at 2.30pm this Sunday.
