Neither the Bathurst Giants or Bushrangers allowed their opponents to get on the scoreboard as the clubs each picked up a rare clean sheet.

Giants maintained their place at the top of the competition thanks to a 3-9-27 to nil win over hosts Parkes Panthers.

Bushrangers didn't look rusty upon their return from the bye week as they recorded a big 12.20-92 to nil hammering of the Cowra Blues at George Park 2.

Giants scored all three of their goals in the first half but struggled to hit the target after the break.

Still, thanks to a strong defensive effort against the undermanned Panthers, the Giants never looked in danger.

Giants coach Liz Kennedy said it wasn't a flawless win but it's one the team can learn from.

"They were a really hard, physical side but they unfortunately only had 14 players while we had 19, so it's really hard to get everyone in the game when you've got seven substitutes while trying to get some rhythm going," she said.

"We probably didn't make the most of our opportunities and Parkes were really good at applying the pressure once we got inside the forward 50."

Things got even harder for the Panthers mid-game when they lost two players to injury.

That forced the match into a 12-against-12 state with the hosts having no subs to call upon.

Giants' defence proved to be far too much for the Panthers to handle.

"Our defence was excellent and we had to make changes to our backs," Kennedy said.

"Chelsea Gibbs is out for the season and Olivia Flood missed the game so we put Sarah Taylor in the back and that looks like a great position for her. Mariah Gilchrist ... and Danita Lane were great at the back as well.

"Mikaela Kingham had a wonderful game and Leah Muller looks like she's found her place in the team."