Vilise Rabotini returned from a hamstring injury to score a hat-trick, while Napoloini Navulavula and Kirk Stanbridge scored doubles in the 62-point victory.

The result moves Cowra to fifth on the competition ladder, with Orange City slipping outside finals contention having lost 32-24 against Forbes.

Eagles coach Troy Hayes was pleased with his side’s clinical second-half but will be aiming for an improved opening 40 minutes against Forbes this week.

“We didn’t do ourselves a lot of favours in the first half. Our patterns were good and we were running well but our discipline was poor and we dropped a few balls,” he said.

“Our second-half was spot on. Everything was gelling. It’s a good sign moving forward.

“We did allow them back into the game after we made a strong start. A few penalties here and there obviously didn’t effect us on the scoreboard but against the bigger sides like Forbes and Dubbo they’ll take those opportunities.”

Cowra turns their attention to Saturday’s home game against third-placed Forbes, while hot on their heels Orange City host CSU Bathurst.

City has a relatively comfortable run home with games against CSU, Parkes and Mudgee. If Cowra beats Forbes this week it’ll make for a hugely interesting final fortnight as they meet CSU and Dubbo Roos.

Orange Emus remain undefeated having knocked over the students 48-3 on Saturday.