The tight, hotly contested twin town derby we were all expecting didn't eventuate on Friday night under lights in the under 18's rugby league clash between Parkes and Forbes.
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The Forbes Magpies put on an absolute clinic at Pioneer Oval in Parkes, with a massive 44-nil win over the Spacemen,
Shortened game time makes the scoreline all the more remarkable, with four 15 minute quarters instead of the usual 80 minutes.
A healthy and supportive home crowd wasn't enough of a boost for the Spacemen who were completely outplayed by a Forbes side that is yet to be defeated this season.
It was clear from the opening whistle Forbes had pep in their step, before an incredible second half performance that no spectator who was there to witness would ever forget.
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Forbes captain Jack Hartwig said they set out to dominate from the start, and they did just that.
"All the boys were pretty keen right from the start.
"It's a game we look forward to in this competition - Parkes and Forbes - it's good to get a win and a solid win," said Hartwig.
The Magpies went into the second half up 14-nil, before running in five tries to break the hearts of Spacemen supporters who were confident going into the game, given the last clash between the two finished 16-12, Forbes way.
After such a disheartening and surprising result, Parkes coach Sam Dwyer wasn't going to mince his words.
"Very disappointing on our behalf.
"Forbes played really well but we played much below our standard.
"There's a couple of key areas that we have to get right if we hope to go further in the competition and we'll be looking to work on those at training this week," says Dwyer.
Next weekend will see the final round of the regular season, where Forbes will be looking to continue building momentum for their Premiership push against Cowra.
The Spacemen simply have to pick themselves up and bounce back with a vengeance when they host Canowindra at Pioneer Oval, a side they beat 28-6 on August 16.
Parkes Spacemen 0 lost to Forbes Magpies 44
