The Magpies edged out the Parkes Spacemen in another epic derby clash last weekend and on Sunday the men in black and white welcome the Fishies to Spooner Oval.

CYMS is coming off its first loss of the season, and while the Magpies are almost guaranteed to finish third regardless of Sunday’s result, motivation remains high.

Forbes’ coaching coordinator Cameron Greenhalgh said his side can learn from what Nyngan did last week in its 14-0 win and attempt to make it two losses on the bounce for the minor premiers.

“Nyngan’s a big side and they’ve got their defence in order,” Greenhalgh said.

“That’s exactly what we need to do this weekend.

“We know we’ve got a strong forward pack, but defence wins the big games and that’s what we’ve worked on at training this week.”

The Magpies also know they can’t relax even for a minute in a game like this, with the Fishies expected to be fired up after a defeat.

“We need to be better for longer periods of time,” Greenhalgh said.

“We’ve spoken about it this week. If we switch off, a side like CYMS can put on points quickly."

The hosts expect to welcome Traie Merritt back to the forward pack this weekend, but may be missing Mitch Davis after he suffered an injury in the thrilling 30-28 win over the Spacemen.

“Other than that, we’re pretty much as usual and they’re ready to go,” Greenhalgh said, with Jesse Wighton again expected to be key after he scored a hat-trick from centre in last weekend’s victory.

A vocal crowd is expected at Spooner Oval, and matches will start at the earlier time of 10am after both clubs came to an agreement.

First grade is expected to kick off around 1.30pm.