The two sides are currently locked at 16 points each so the winner will take top spot for there own as the second half of the season gets underway.

After a competition wide bye last weekend, Waratahs coach Kose Lelei said his boys were looking forward to getting back on the field.

"The bye was good to have the week off last week just a few boys carrying little niggles," he said.

"Will be ready for the challenge this week."

Lelei's side has a perfect record at Exies Oval so far this season and are looking to continue that when the Hawks come to town.

"Be good game this week, especially at home," he said.

"We made it a goal to win every home game. If we play the footy I know we can and complete our sets is our goal for the weekend."

After losing their first game of the season against the Mallee Men in West Wyalong, the Waratahs were able to bounce back quickly with wins over Leeton and Darlington Point Coleambally.

Meanwhile the only loss the Hawks have suffered this season has come at the hands of the Griffith side back in round one and have won seven games in a row since that point.

Lelei said he is happy with his side's progression but knows there is still room to improve in the second half of the season.

"I'm happy with how we are going, but we still have a lot to work on as a team, but we will get there," he said.

"Our main goal this week and the season is our defence."

The Hawks will be heading into the clash with one uncertainty with Michael Thomas going to the judiciary after an incident in the derby against Leeton which could see him sidelined for a couple of weeks while they may also have a new signing on display.

The first-grade game will kick off at 3.30pm at Exies Oval.

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