PARKES might not be in the Central West AFL finals equation, but come this Saturday they could have an impact on who wins the minor premiership.
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The Panthers will host the Bathurst Bushrangers Rebels, a team currently sitting second on the ladder, under lights at NorthParkes Oval.
On form it is a game the Rebels should win comfortably - they accounted for the Panthers 131-39 earlier this season - but co-coach of the Bushrangers outfit Tim Hunter knows there is no room for complacency.
"I played over there last year in the same fixture and we actually lost, they've beaten the Giants over there this year who are right up there as well. So definitely it's not one to take easy and being a night game, it's a little bit different as well, I'm expecting a tough game," Hunter said.
"Parkes are very well known for being a very good contested footy side. They're a tough team to play against, you know you've played them.
"We need to make sure we break even in contested footy against them because that is their strength. If we can get on top there, hopefully that will hold us in good stead."
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If the Rebels can win that battle - and also fare well in terms of clearances - Parkes' ground is one which suits their style of play.
"I'd say their oval is the biggest in the league, it's quite good to play at actually, so hopefully we can use a bit of run. We really like to take the game on, so hopefully we'll continue to do that," Hunter said.
With three rounds remaining - one of which will see them sit out with the bye - the Rebels sit four points behind competition leaders Orange.
It means a minor premiership for Hunter's side is still in the equation, but the Rebels' immediate focus is on winning this Saturday.
"We are taking it week by week, it sounds like a cliche, but you can't really look too far ahead at the moment," Hunter said.
"The goal is to finish top two and I think if results go our way and we play well for the rest of the year, we could possible get the minor premiership. But in saying that, if we slip up we could slip right down the ladder as well, it's that close this year."
Opening bounce is 6pm Saturday.
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