With injuries constantly plaguing the first and second-tier outfits, versatility has been a key element to the squad's success.

"The make-up of our team changes every week," Hattersley said.

"We've got so much depth and so many blokes who can get the job done. There's a lot of talent on the squad."

For the coach, it's his second year in charge of the outfit, but the first season in which he's flown solo. He brought injured first-grade playmaker Carter Hirini into the fold to work with the backs, and says the troops have responded well.

"Carter and I just manage the players, really," he said.

"We give them a bit of structure to work with but they do their own thing out there."

Even though the squad's sole loss has come at the hands of Dubbo, Hattersley went back to the old cliche when asked who the biggest threat is.

"I honestly think every side's dangerous," he said.

"We've been in so many tough games where the score line really hasn't reflected how hard it's been.

"We played Forbes earlier in the year and beat them by 30, but it was close for 55 minutes."

Coaches never like choosing standout players, but there's been two guns he had to mention.

"Harry Edwards had been playing in the centres," he said.

"He's an extraordinary fit person, but he loves getting in and doing the tough stuff.

"Unfortunately he broke his leg and is going to be out for the season, but he was great for us.

"Nick Crowley is another one... he's been good every week for us and is an exceptional defender."

Emus will look to add another win to their resume when they take on Orange City at Pride Park on Saturday.

While the Lions aren't sitting overly pretty on the table, derby showdowns are always tough, no matter the ladder positions.

"They could be struggling for the whole season then come out in the last round and really stick it to us," he said.

"They're definitely a tough side."