NELSON Bay coach Darren Stewart hopes the Gropers have learnt from the mistakes of a fortnight ago when they take on Newcastle and Hunter Rugby Union premiers Wanderers at No.2 Sportsground today.
After wins over Hamilton, The Waratahs and Maitland, the giant-killers were on track for their biggest scalp, leading Merewether 15-14 at half-time.
But the Greens, with their unbeaten streak in danger, found another gear after the break and piled on 38 unanswered points to win 52-15.
"In the second half as soon as we missed a tackle they capitalised and ran amok," Stewart said.
"It will be the same scenario on Saturday.
"If you miss a one-on-one tackle they will punish you for it. If we are going to be half a chance our defence has to be up to scratch."
The Two Blues are coming off a demoralising 36-17 loss to arch rivals Merewether. They remained in third place but coach Dan Beckett acknowledged they could not afford another slip-up.
The clash between the Two Blues and the Gropers is the only match being played this weekend, which is traditionally spare for wet weather.
The rest of the round will be played next Saturday.
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