Both United and Taree West hope to use the last T20 matches of the Mid North Coast Cricket Premier League season tomorrow to build momentum toward the return of 40 over fixtures.
Subscribe now for unlimited access.
$0/
(min cost $0)
or signup to continue reading
United captain Ricky Campbell sees the final games as a way to extend their lead at the top of the table.
The side will play Wingham and Rovers at Chatham Park, the same sides nipping at their heels.
"We're taking on the sides who are second and third on the ladder," Ricky said.
"If we can win one or both of the games, that will give us a push above them before the one day matches resume."
Noticeable absentees for the matches will be Danial Stone, Justin Boyd and Murray McCartney.
This has left a sizeable hole in the team's middle order and bowling stocks, with some third grade players expected to be called up.
The forced changes could be all for nothing come game day with the weather gods predicted to play their part.
"We could cop a bit of rain on Saturday so that might help us out a bit," Ricky laughed.
Earlier this week, Ricky was undecided who would make up the final XI.
Meanwhile, Taree West will need to be near perfect for the rest of the season to even think about a finals berth. No one knows this better than captain Dean Mills.
Coming off the extended Christmas/ New Year break, the side is focused on Saturday's trip to Port Macquarie to battle the Pirates and Wauchope.
"It will be tough but we have a good side on paper," Dean said.
"We all know we haven't played well this season but we do have a strong side so it's up to us to perform."
Dean was confident wins in the final T20 fixtures could get the side 'on a roll' with seven one day matches to follow before the playoffs.
"We will have to do everything right to make the semis," Dean said.
West languishes in last place on 19.5 points but with a few wins under their belt and other results going their way would see them rise through the ranks.
Wauchope (23 points) and Port Macquarie Pirates (24.5 points) sit just above the side outside the top four.
West will have to wait until February 1 to take on Wauchope in a 40 over game due to the Australia Day weekend break.
Other T20 fixtures this weekend will see Port City Leagues Magpies take on Wauchope and the Pirates.