On April 1, Manly were no match for last year's grand finalist, outclassed in a devastating 46-6 loss at their home turf of Brookevale Oval.

But since then, the Sea Eagles have soared into form by winning three consecutive games, with the return of star fullback Tom Trbojevic crucial to Manly's solid run.

So that's why Panthers coach Ivan Cleary is cautious of Trbojevic and the entire Manly side in what is a clash of too in-form teams.

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"It's definitely a different situation to a few weeks back," he said.

"With Tom Trbojevic back in the side, it's certainly lifted their confidence. He provides a lot of connection for their team, not just Tom's playing ability, but the team being really connected.

"Their form has been really good in the past couple of weeks. They're probably better than any other team in the comp.

"We just have to play our game, play well, control the ball and get our defence going. If we can do that, then it'll give ourselves a chance."

While Trbojevic is back and firing for Manly, Cleary will be hoping the return of hooker Apisai Koroisau will add a little extra to his team.

"It's good to have Api back. He's an important member of our team and it's good to see him getting back onto the field," he said.

"Mitch [Kenny] has done an outstanding effort in Api's absence. They both certainly play differently, so there'll be subtle changes but it won't change our team too much."

Panthers are fresh off a routine win over the Newcastle Knights 24-6 last round, while Manly crushed Wests Tigers 40-6.

In Panthers' victory over the Knights, it also saw the return of fullback Dylan Edwards, who had been absent since round two due to a broken hand.

"He's had just the one game and he was pretty impressive," Cleary said on his returning fullback.

"He looked like he had never been out. Dyl's form this year has been really good. We certainly missed him in the weeks we weren't playing, so it's good to have him back."

For the fans at the game on Saturday, they'll be treated to two teams that are enjoying a rich run of form, Penrith having won all seven games they've played this year, while Manly have won three on the trot.

So Cleary is pleased to see the rugby league fans in Bathurst will be treated to a game featuring two in-form teams.

"It's fantastic. Our club is definitely a supporter of country rugby league," he said.

"We've obviously been coming to Bathurst for a couple of years now, so it's great to see the excitement around town.

"A lot of the kids we saw on Thursday were pumped for the game. It's a good fixture, so it just adds to it."

Saturday's match between Penrith and Manly will get underway at 3pm from Carrington Park.

Two games will be played before the NRL, with two-time Group 10 defending premiers Bathurst Panthers do battle with Orange CYMS at 10.55am and Penrith Panthers clash with Blacktown Workers Sea Eagles clash at 12.40pm.

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