Cowra travels to Bathurst’s Ashwood Park to take on the Bulldogs for a second time this Blowes Clothing Cup season, the Eagles battling injuries with Tim Berry, Jimmy Montgomery and winger Joey Dunlop all sidelined from last week’s win.

The Eagles are also missing captain Chris Miller who’s on Country duty.

It’s a mammoth assignment for the Eagles but Jeffs is confident his side, having discovered form in recent weeks, can give the Dogs a scare.

 “We’re improving each week. Saturday will be a real test but we still want to be competitive. They’re without their country representatives but they have a lot of depth in second grade. If we play the style we have been we’ll be competitive,” Jeffs said.

One player who is on deck and is proving to be huge find for Jeffs is Joe Dakuitoga.

The Fijian prop will make a third straight appearance this Saturday after linking with the Eagles from West Harbour.

He’s providing an experienced head and plenty confidence to Cowra and their set piece. And he’s laid on tries in outings against Orange City and Forbes respectively.

“Our pack’s been good. Joe obviously knows how to scrummage so he’s experience is important and he’s given our other guys confidence and belief. He sets the platform, you can tell he’s played a good standard,” Jeffs said.

“We know we’re in a tough situation but we don’t want to be concerned about who isn’t there. We’re focusing on the guys who have an opportunity and get the experience in first grade.”

Cowra is aiming for a third straight victory in pursuit of a top four berth for the first time this season.

The Bulldogs will be without two of their best players Peter Fitzsimmons and Harry Webber who will are lining up for Country.

Game starts at 3.15pm at Ashwood Park.