This is because Willie Heta, the lifeblood of two blues' attacking structure, is missing with a leg injury.

And while Manning isn't prepared to rest the potential of the team's attack solely Heta's shoulders, he understands the 35-year-old maestro leaves a huge hole, but says it's not one the side can't fill.

"You feel the impact of Willie [Heta] when he's on the field," Manning said.

"I've got a lot of faith in Benny [Blimka] in the halves, and I know Toby [Westcott] can take the reins."

Any concern pundits might have over Hawks' halves pairing could easily be erased by their big men as two blues will welcome back enforcer Ethan McKellar who took a week off injured against Mudgee.

Add Nathan Potts, Rakai Tuheke and Saul Houma into the mix, and you've got a nightmare for CYMS' to deal with.

But, green and golds' back rower Robbie Mortimer is embracing the challenge and backs his men to match it with them.

"Their forward pack is great, but it's totally different with Ethan [McKellar] in it," Mortimer said.

"And Saul [Houma], I've never played someone in Group 10 like him... he's a gentle giant, but I'm glad I'm not on his bad side, he's a handful."

Mortimer understands Heta's absence is significant, but has huge praise for his halves partner.

"He's a terrific leader on and off the field and he's a huge reason why Hawks have had the success they've had in the last few years," he said.

"So it's a huge advantage to us, but I'd never bet against a side with Toby Westcott in it."

Hawks will naturally enter the competition as slight outsiders, having lost convincingly to CYMS just a month ago, but two blues' recent result against Mudgee makes this as close to a coin flip contest as you could imagine.

The derby showdown is the third of three contests during Magic Round. Kick-off is 2.30pm.

Our journalists work hard to provide local, up-to-date news to the community. This is how you can continue to access our trusted content: