In typical local derby fashion, the battle between the Narwan Eels and Armidale Rams is shaping up to be an enthralling encounter.
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The Eels will host the Rams at a refurbished Newling Oval on Saturday.
Heading into the third round of the Group 19 first division A-grade competition, both teams sit win-less.
Narwan made the trip to Moree two weeks ago to face the Boomerangs and were defeated 40-18.
Player-coach John Roberts said they had limited numbers against Moree but expects to be back at full-strength for the all-Armidale clash.
"We ended up with two reserves, not many people travelled which is unfortunate, we had our whole forward pack out," he said.
"I expect to bounce back from last week's game.
"Surprisingly, we have got a home derby and we are getting numbers to training.
"It is a good start."
Rams coach Luke Kirkby is expecting a "very physical" match and Roberts agreed.
"It is pretty much the same as any other game but the rivalry for the home town, who wants to claim the town glory, that is what I feel anyway," Roberts said.
"The intensity goes up a level."
For the Rams, Kirkby is lacing up the boots for the first time this year after halfback Jayden Smith suffered a season-ending injury in round two against Glen Innes.
"I am pretty keen for it, it will be good just to get out there and start tackling some people," Kirkby said.
"There will be a few changes this weekend."
The Rams have been patchy and inconsistent in their opening two matches.
"We have got to be in the right headspace to be taking the field on the weekend. We have to be switched on for 80 minutes, not 30 or 40 minutes," Kirkby said.
"Against the Boars, we were good for 10 to 15 minutes at a time and then unfortunately there were times when we weren't good and they were able to score many points against us.
"Same against Glen, we switched off and allowed their experienced heads to take control whereas for the first 30 we had control and had the game in our hands."
The Rams are a young squad with an average age of 21.
At times, their confidence has wavered and it has been telling in their results.
"We have just got to be confident in ourselves and not get too excited when we are winning and not panic when we are only a few points behind," Kirkby said.
"We have just got to keep a level head throughout the 80 minutes and who knows what could happen?"
Matches at Newling Oval will begin at 11am with the under 18s match between Armidale and Tingha.
League tag will follow and then reserve grade and A-grade.