Wingham captain Michael Rees said last round's loss to Macquarie in the Premier League cricket competition was what the side needed just six weeks out from the finals.
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“No one likes losing but we needed to have a loss,” Michael said.
“Our batting let us down.”
The side is at home this weekend to Port City Leagues Magpies at Cedar Party Reserve.
A fan of the pitch, Michael hopes to win the toss and set the target.
One man the side has identified as a key wicket is run scoring machine Ben Marron.
Wingham believes they have his Achilles heel in the form of bowler Steve Allwood.
“Steve seems to get him out religiously.
“Ben reckons we bring Steve in just to get him out,” Michael laughed.
With the club’s second grade squad enjoying a bye, the Premier League team will be bolstered by a 12th man.
Wingham’s second grade side has gone from strength to strength this season, with many top batsman on the edge of a top grade call-up.
If batting woes continue heading into the finals, Michael said some of them will get their shot in the top grade.
Other games in round 13 will be Port Macquarie at home to Taree West and Rovers taking on Wauchope RSL.
Last-placed Nulla has the bye.
Campbell not plagued by drop out thoughts
With their place on the edge of the top four, United’s charge towards the Mid North Coast Premier Cricket League finals changes each passing round.
A string of wins would have them positioned for a home semi while losses will spell the end of their campaign.
That’s why this Saturday’s clash with Macquarie is crucial. If United lose and other results don’t go their way, they could drop out of the top four.
But that is the furthest thing on the mind of captain Ricky Campbell.
“You can’t really think about that when you’re out on the field,” Ricky said.
With plenty of players available, Ricky said the side will take a team of 12 to Chatham Park.
“It’s a pretty big game this weekend.
“Macquarie have got a few players back and are started to get on bit of a run.
“If we’re off a bit, Macquarie have got the players who can capitalise on that,” Ricky said.
With a slight chance of rain on the radar for Saturday, Ricky will look to bat first if the coin toss goes his way.
Currently seventh on the table, reigning premiers Macquarie haven’t lived up to their form of last season.
The last month has looked promising however as they welcomed back some big name players and handed Wingham their first loss of the season last week.
