Having said that, Viv Paasi's Orange City troops know a loss to Bathurst Bulldogs at Pride Park on Saturday would act a fourth consecutive defeat, and likely anchor the Lions at the bottom of the Blowes Clothing Cup table.

The horror month ensued an opening-round victory where Lions rallied at home, taking out Dubbo Kangaroos in a famous comeback.

Since then, it's been all downhill for the reigning second-placed unit, and new recruit Traye Hodge knows if they want to be there when the whips are cracking, the results need to come now.

"We really don't want to be 1-4 after five weeks," Hodge said.

"That's a big hole for us to climb out of. It's not quite do-or-die for us yet, but it's definitely a big one."

While last round's contest at Wade Park was technically a home game for the Lions, they haven't played at Pride Park since the season opener, and Hodge is keen to return to the Lion's den.

"We're looking forward to getting back out there," he said.

"We had a great game the first time we were there and everybody loves that home feeling."

It was only a fortnight ago that Lions' prop Sia Nemani spoke of a particular issue plaguing the side's progression, and heading into round five, Hodge says it's still holding them back.

"There's been a lot of daylight between the ruck and the supporting players," he said.

"We felt like we picked it up a bit against Forbes but when we played Emus, they were a different beast."

While improved support play is the team goal, Hodge has set himself some individual objectives.

"For me, it's my decision-making," he said.

"Especially in attack, I want to calm it down a bit. I get a bit too excited and sometimes chance my arm when we get a roll on.

"I just need to slow it down and make sure I'm making the right decisions. I probably made the wrong pass a few times against Emus.

"And I need to improve my fitness a bit, if I'm honest. The lungs are burning out here," he laughed.

Orange City will host Bathurst Bulldogs on Saturday for a 3.15pm kick-off. Pride Park is the destination.

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