This shapes as a tricky task for the Tigers as the Rebels hold first position and are widely considered the better of the two Bathurst sides.

After starting well in last weekend’s game, the Tigers dropped off in the second half on their way to a comprehensive defeat.

Coach Dale Hunter knows a full 80 minutes is essential if they’re wanting to ambush the league-leaders.

“We’ll have to take it quarter-by-quarter,” Hunter said.

“It’s important for us to get off to a good start and then we’ll try to play on from there.”

The Tigers were plagued by injuries and absentees last week as they had five important players off the field at the start of the second half.

While these changes had an influence on the side’s collapse, Hunter isn’t making excuses and is focusing on improving instead.

“We’re looking at getting the run in our legs this week,” he said.

“We probably didn’t have it last weekend because of the time off before that.

“Our efficiency wasn’t good and we turned the ball over a lot while we were under fatigue.”

After last weekend’s game, Hunter praised the efforts of Ricky Nelson who was visiting the club on loan for a one-off appearance.

Although he won’t be playing this weekend, Hunter is confident in his side’s ability but says they’ll adopt a ‘team defence mantra’.

“We’re going to have to rely more on our midfield to help our overall defence,” he said.

“Some we were unable to run both ways last weekend.”

The Rebels have put the league on show this season with an astounding 114 points-per-game average so it’s clear a good defensive outing is important for the Tigers.

It’s likely Orange will feature in the post-season but without a strong showing against the Rebels on the weekend, the Tigers would head into the finals as massive underdogs.

Not only that, Hunter has stressed his desire for a top two finish which will make the post-season more manageable. 

If the Tigers want to secure a spot that high, a win this weekend is vital.

First bounce is at Bloomfield Oval this Saturday from 2.30pm