Grant Atkins
The Maitland Blacks will be out to bounce back immediately this Saturday when they take on Southern Beaches at Barton Oval in the Newcastle and Hunter Rugby Union second division C-grade competition.
The Blacks went down 12-8 to neighbouring rivals the East Maitland Eagles on Saturday in what was the first official meeting between the two clubs.
Not only will the Blacks be keen to rejoin the winner’s circle but they now sit six points outside the top five on the competition ladder midway through the season.
Last time the Blacks met Southern Beaches they clawed their way back to win 33-28 after trailing by 23 points at half-time.
Competition leaders and two-time defending premiers East Maitland are away to Singleton Army at Lone Pine Barracks on Saturday.
Kick off is scheduled for 3pm in both games.