THE Compass Hastings Valley Vikings will host the South West Rocks Gaolers tomorrow in both grades at Oxley Oval, Port Macquarie.  

As the Mid-North Coast Zone Rugby season enters round five, the Coastline First XV heads into the match keen to maintain its undefeated run in 2009.

The Gaolers, however, will prove stiff opposition, with reasonable form also under the belts.

With one game deferred, due to weather, South West Rocks suffered a tight first round loss to last year’s premiers.

The side followed up with a draw against Kempsey and a win over the Port Macquarie Pirates “seconds”.

Without having seen the Gaolers play, Vikings coach David Keys is cautioning his players not to rely on the results so far.

“We’ve got the basics right and have been starting and finishing each game well,” he said.

“Our defence across the paddock is good, but we probably need to sharpen the positional play of our back three for kick defence.

“And, around the fringes, we need a put a bit more pressure on.

“Basically, we are going okay and gradually improving each week, so hopefully we’ll see more of the same tomorrow.”

With the Vikings demonstrating an ability to mount periods of sustained pressure, goal kicker Andrew Barnes is hoping to get a few more opportunities to add to the scoreline.

“The Gaolers play a lot like Kempsey in that they just keep coming at you,” he explained.

“They don’t mind throwing the ball around, and they’ve got a few players who can create tries out of nowhere.

“We have a similar for-and-against record so far this season, so it’s going to be tight.

“But, there’s a good feeling among the guys, and hopefully it will all just click tomorrow.”

The C2C under 19s are keen to return to the winner’s arena after a heavy loss last Saturday.

Form halfback Sam Priddis believes the game will be an entertaining one.

“The team that can best convert half-chances into tries will prevail,” he said.

“We both play a similar game.

“Each side can make good ground around the fringes, as well as throwing the ball around.

“If we can retain a fair share of possession and the passes stick, we should end up with a win, but we’re going to have to work hard for it.”

Spectators are reminded the Tacking Point Lions Club will again be at Oxley Oval to offer exceptional catering.

All proceeds raised, during the season, are going towards children’s equipment for the Oncology Ward at the Port Macquarie Base Hospital.