The chance to grab a spot in the Newcastle Rugby League top four adds even more spice to Kurri Kurri and Cessnock's Coalfields clash on Saturday.
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The top four teams are all playing each other this weekend – opening the way for either the Bulldogs or Goannas to sneak move up the ladder.
Both Kurri Kurri and Cessnock had important wins last weekend, with the Goannas in particular buoyed by their 34-24 win against Western Suburbs.
The Bulldogs were also clinical in their defence and attack against Central Newcastle last weekend scoring a 30-10 win on the road.
“You don’t need to build up for a Coalfields game, but the results on the weekend evened up the competition and the two points are very important,” Bulldogs coach Phil Williams said.
“Last week’s win gives us real belief in ourselves, but it will be tough on Saturday.”
Cessnock coach Dan Smailes said the upset win against previously unbeaten Western Suburbs was exactly what his side needed to kick start their 2016 campaign.