Battle lines will be drawn once again when the Macleay Valley Rangers and Kempsey Saints clash in the Premier League this Saturday.
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The Rangers, who will host the round three fixture, head into the contest with two victories over the opening two rounds while Saints picked up a draw in their one Premier League match this season.
Saints coach Kevin Sinclair is expecting a close affair and acknowledges their defence will need to be at their best.
"It's always a massive game between us and Rangers," Sinclair said.
"It's one of the biggest local sporting events and it always attracts a large crowd.
"I am always expecting the Rangers to be good in attack. They have plenty of goal scorers and our defence will need to be on its toes.
"We are fortunate to have Jacob Lyttle, who I think is one of the best keepers in the competition, in great form at the moment."
Sinclair is hopeful his side will continue to dust of the cobwebs as they enter the second round.
"I am hoping for a good effort, to continue to build on our performances. We were a bit rusty last week but I know it will take a few games until we get settled," Sinclair said.
"But at this stage, I just want to see everyone putting in"
Rangers coach Chris Walker admits there is more on the line when they face off with their crosstown rivals.
"We obviously want to get bragging rights on them," Walker said.
"There are a few mates between each team so it's always good to get the upper hand and let them know about it."
Walker is expecting his Rangers outfit to face a tough test.
"They are usually a young and energetic side, who pass the ball around well," he said.
"I think they will push us but hopefully we can come away with the win."
The round three fixture will see both sides field under strength teams.
Rangers will be without coach and player Chris Walker, who heads overseas for a month, Steven Moore and Kurt Riordan.
Moore picked up a minor injury while Riordan misses the contest after picking up two yellow cards last Saturday.
Meanwhile Saints will be without two of their best players from their 2-all draw with Port Saints.
Player's player Harry James and Nick Wright will miss the contest due to prior commitments.
The first grade game kicks off at 3pm while reserve grade will start at 1pm.
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