The annual June long weekend derby clash between Forbes and Parkes didn't go to plan for the Magpies and that's been the tale of their 2021 Group 11 season.
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A premiership contender in recent times, Forbes will miss the finals this year but have the chance to finish on a high this weekend when they again do battle with fierce rivals Parkes.
This weekend marks the Magpies' final game of the season as they have the bye in the last round.
The Spacemen cruised to a 32-12 victory last time the two sides met but Forbes coach Cameron Greenhalgh says he is expecting a much more improved showing at home on Sunday.
"We are fully fit for the first time this year, so we plan on finishing strong," Greenhalgh said.
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It's been a disappointing season so far for the injury-plagued Magpies, who can't make finals after managing just the two wins up to this point.
For Parkes, this weekend offers a chance to boost the hopes of a top three finish.
The Spacemen currently sit fifth but are only two points off third-placed Macquarie.
The visitors will start favorites on Sunday but coach Brent Wood knows nothing can be taken for granted in a derby.
"We are expecting them to throw everything at us being their last game for the year," he said.
"But we just need to keep working together in defence and to complete our sets and be patient with the ball."
Parkes will carry some valuable momentum into the game after a stirring seven point win over Macquarie last Sunday.
The talented spine - featuring Sam Dwyer, Chad Porter, Jack Creith, and Connor Farrer, clicked in that win and they will be key again on Sunday and in the final round meeting with Wellington.
As always, Mitch Andrews, Nick Greenhalgh, and Ben Maguire will be vital to Forbes' chances.
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