Muswellbrook enjoyed a flying start to its 2018 campaign, which saw them go on a six-game unbeaten streak before succumbing to a mid-season form slump, losing two of their three second round matches.

However, coach Brodern Adam-Smith is confident in the side’s ability to turn that around.

He thinks that playing in front of former clubmen on Saturday will provide the extra motivation to get the job done. 

Speaking to the Chronicle, Adam-Smith acknowledged the club had missed out on valuable points in recent weeks, which had seen Muswellbrook drop into a dog fight for a finals position.

On the other side of the coin, Morisset’s fortunes had improved, making this weekend’s showdown all the more important.

“There are really five teams playing for three finals spots at the moment and ourselves and Morisset are two of them,” Adam-Smith said.

“A result either way could be very important with three more games to come. 

“It would be great to see us claim the win on Saturday and make a big statement with the finals approaching.

“We have a long history with Morisset and play an annual pre-season game against their team.

“I know they are a good squad, but we showed that we are the better side at our last meeting.

“I’m confident we can repeat that dose again, backed by a strong home crowd of former players.”

The encounter should be eagerly-contested by both teams and kicks off at 12.15pm after a morning of junior matches at Victoria Park.

A vocal band of spectators is expected, too, as the club acknowledges the efforts of players past and present.