Parkes United will look to put the controversy surrounding a points deduction behind them and carry on their winning form in their Premier League hockey clash against Souths in Bathurst tomorrow.
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United have been in very good form since the opening round, reeling off four consecutive wins for the first time in a number of years.
Since their first round 4-3 loss on the bell to Lithgow Panthers, United are yet to meet a premiership contender.
That will change tomorrow when they meet Souths as the Bathurst side has also been in outstanding form.
Their only blemish this season was a loss to St Pats while last week they fought back from 2-0 down against Lithgow Panthers to salvage a 2-all draw.
Souths will be a stern test for United who are coming off a 6-0 victory over Bathurst City.
Coach Glenn Johnstone believes his charges are headed in the right direction.
“The boys are definitely getting there,” Johnstone said.
“Last week’s first half was one of their best in a long time.
“We need to stay focused for the entire game, but that is something we are working on at training.
“The boys have been working on how they perform under fatigue and hopefully that will start to show in the performances.
“Having said that, there are a lot of positives to take away from how the boys have started the season.
“The next two matches will indicate just how good we are going.
“Souths are never easy and we follow that up with a game against competition yardsticks St Pat’s in a fortnight.
“We will have a better idea of where we are at after that,” he said.
The depth of the United side will be tested again tomorrow.
Regan Hotham and Jack Elliott will both miss the clash with knee injuries, Elliott set to miss at least another six weeks.
They welcome back Ben Hawken from a hamstring strain to strengthen the defensive half and ease the load on Tim Somers and Matt Job.
Hamish Orr will again be key to the United chances as he will play in behind the strikers and look to exploit any space afforded him.
Parkes also welcomes back experienced head Graeme Thompson who could be vital to United winning the midfield battle.
The important match begins tomorrow in Bathurst at 1.50pm.
