THE Macleay Valley Mustangs face their toughest test of the season on Sunday.
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They will travel to Lank Bain Oval to take on the Wauchope Blues in the Group Three major semi-final.
The visitors will need to be at their best to overcome the minor premiers, having lost to the Blues by 23 points at the same ground three weeks ago.
Reduced to 10men by the end of that game, Mustangs coach Willy Lockwood said it was imperative his side showed more control this time.
“I think if we are disciplined in our approach, we should do well,” he said.
“We need to concentrate on slowing the ball down and making sure we complete our sets. If we are going to win, then everyone has to contribute.”
The Mustangs will hope some of the younger squad members can replicate their efforts from last week’s match where they created multiple scoring opportunities for the side.
Lockwood said the success of the club’s reserves had provided the first grade team added depth.
“When you see young guys playing that well, it definitely motivates some of the more experienced members of the squad,” he said.
“The reserves have had a great season, and hopefully they can also get a win on Sunday.”
Whoever wins will progress to the grand final, to be held on September 14.
Kempsey remains in with a chance to host the big game, after Group Three officials inspected the Verge St oval held up at last week’s qualifying finals.
Secretary Barrie Smith said there was a number of factors to be considered by the committee before a decision was made.
“Kempsey is definitely still in the mix, but we base our choice on more than just results,” he said.
“The financial potential of a venue can play a part in determining whether it is suitable for the game.
"As a committee, we have already run through a variety of situations so we will wait and see how the results pan out, and then reconvene to see what is best.”