Anderson received a clearance from Kurri on Friday while former Knights player Filipo arrives from Group 21 club Greta-Branxton, who this week dropped out of the Newcastle and Hunter Community Rugby League A-grade competition.

It comes as former NRL pair Pat Mata'utia and Sam Mataora were ruled out this week with work commitments.

"Hopefully we get those two boys back, but we'll have to wait and see. The new guys are handy pick-ups and they're in for the long haul," Lantry said.

The mentor described visiting outfit Dubbo CYMS as "dangerous".

The state government's public health orders mean Saturday's attendance at Maitland Sportsground will be capped at 500, which includes players and officials. Lantry said tickets would be available at the gate but it was a "first in, best dressed" scenario.

Kick-off is 3.30pm. NSW Rugby League is also live streaming the fixture online.

Elsewhere in round two, Glebe Burwood and North Sydney go head-to-head for the first time since 1929, Wentworthville meet Hills and Wests Illawarra host the Western Rams. Thirroul have the bye.

Meanwhile, the NHCRL senior seasons are set to start this weekend after the 2020 opener didn't go ahead as planned on July 18 and 19. Karuah and Morpeth withdrew on Friday because of coronavirus concerns. Dudley's ladies league tag team have opted not to play Port Stephens club Mallabula in round one.

Newcastle, Maitland, Group 21 and Hunter Valley junior competitions are also scheduled to kick off across Saturday and Sunday following a first-up delay last weekend. NSWRL regional manager Keith Onslow said Nelson Bay have "stood down" from round one because of the recent COVID-19 outbreak.

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