The Pirates sit in last place on the competition ladder, but coach Col Lucas is convinced his side can still feature in the playoffs. But Lucas added they have to string a few wins together if they’re going to make a challenge.

“There’s still plenty of games to go,’’ Lucas pointed out.

“But we don’t want to be in the position of having to rely on other results. We really need to win this one, it’s virtually do or die for us.’’

Lucas saw plenty of positives when his under-strength side went down to competition front runners Wingham 30-22 last weekend. Wingham didn’t seal the result until the last minute.

The Pirates will have utility forward Jake Wheeler available for this weekend after he missed the clash against the Tigers because of suspension.

Wheeler will return to the forwards as Lucas was happy with his centre pairing of Corey Wheeler and newcomer Adrian Hoskings against the Tigers. Centres are in short supply at Old Bar this year and Hoskings arrival is timely.

With Wheeler back in the pack Lucas will send Luke Polson back to under 18s.

Polson, Josh Starr and Logan Simms are started in first grade last week.

“Luke is a first grade player and he’ll stand by for us,’’ Lucas said.

“But I’d rather see him play under 18s. They’ve put together a couple of wins and they’ll have Jake Hazzard playing for them this week.’’

Hazzard, a promising halfback who played SG Ball for the Sydney Roosters this year, has been the centre of a protracted disagreement between the Pirates and Taree City.

Otherwise the Pirates will be unchanged from last week.

The Pirates will have to change some recent history if they are going to take the points tomorrow.

Wauchope hasn’t been a happy hunting ground for Old Bar since the Blues returned to the Group Three competition.

“I only found that out the other day,’’ Lucas said.

“But this would be a good time to change that.’’

Lucas pointed out that Taree City’s recent form against northern clubs shows what can be done.

“I’m 100 per cent sure this side can make the semi-finals,’’ Lucas added.

“But as I said, we have to start with this match.’’

Wauchope’s form in the last fortnight will also offer Old Bar some encouragement. The Blues have suffered heavy losses to Taree City and Port Macquarie and currently sit just out of the top five, one point adrift of Macleay Valley.