Okay, it's only two rounds in, but it's still a cracking start from a new-look side playing a new, high tempo style.

This Saturday the Magpies face another stiff test, away against a Newcastle Olympic side that bristles with quality and experience - Joel and Ryan Griffiths, Rhys Cooper and Jared Muller to name just a few.

"They're experienced and dangerous, and very quick on the break," Magpies coach Mick Bolch said. "We'll have to be careful.

"It's another stern test. I thought Lake Macquarie played well last week and I was delighted to get the three points there because they'll be tough this season."

The Magpies won that one 3-2, and probably have keeper Lachlan Watson to thank for the three points. He pulled off a spectacular save in the 93^rd minute to deny the home team.

"He probably pulled off three world class saves throughout," Bolch said. "He was outstanding."

Having said that, it would have been harsh on the Magpies not to walk away with all three points.

After going one-nil down to a bullet-like long distance strike, Maitland bounced back to lead 3-1 with two goals to James Thompson and one to Flynn Goodman.

Bolch was delighted to see three goals go in, but says there is still a need to be more clinical up front.

"We probably had a dozen chances," he said. "It's great that we are creating, but as the season progresses we'll need to put more of those chances away. But it takes time. It's a new and very young front line."

Maitland's new high pressing style had Lakes under pressure on the ball for much of the game.

They had key centre back Zach Thomas out - he'll be back this week - as well as midfielder Joe Melmeth who will miss out again this week with a groin strain.

"It meant we were a bit disrupted from the previous week, but we were able to bring in Alex Read and Sean Pratt who are quality replacements," Bolch said. "We have a really healthy competition for places and you need that. You can't win a competition with 11 first grade players ... you need 16 or 17."

Weston bounced back after a 7-1 drubbing in the opening round to down Valentine 1-0. They are at home to Adamstown Rosebud.