When the sides met at Caltex Park earlier in the season, Parkes ran out convincing 59-7 winner. However the Boars’ fall from semi-finals contenders to battlers in Blowes Clothing Cup has been one of the major talking points in the past few weeks.

The Rhinos made the trip to Parkes considering themselves a strong chance of a fourth victory for the season and played with confidence.

The Dubbo team had benefited from the addition of two new recruits in recent weeks and president Ian Burns said it was nice to see the team get a win as the season draws to a close.

“Parkes are in a very similar situation to us in terms of their numbers and we only played first and second grade,” Burns said.

“However both games were good, they edged us out in second grade and we got the win in first grade so that was great.

“It’s good to see the guys rally after what was a low point in our season.”

The Rhinos came out of the blocks ready to play and scored the first two tries to lead 12-0 before Parkes got one back before the break.

Dubbo extended their advantage early in the second half and despite Parkes having the better of possession, they were able to hold on. A penalty goal in the final five minutes sealed the 22-12 victory for the visitors.

“It’s amazing just how much difference a couple of quality players coming into your side can make and we benefited from that,” Burns said.

The Rhinos have one more game to finish off the season, hosting the Forbes Platypi at Caltex Park on Saturday.

Burns said it would be a much tougher challenge, but was looking for the side to end the year with a good showing.

“We’re under no allusions. I don’t expect us to get a win against Forbes but I also don’t think we should do badly either,” he said.

“For one of the first times this year we will have basically the same team two weeks in a row and that can only be a good thing for us against Forbes.”