The Blues are two games into a stretch of six played over just 19 days and coach Dave Willott remains confident his squad will be up for the challenge.

"It's just the nature of this season. The AFL are having a run of games like this. Same as the A-League. It's just part of what you've got to do to get a season in," Willott said.

Norths clocked up their second win of the year on Thursday night, accounting for University 9-0, ahead of meeting joint leaders Souths at Newcastle International Hockey Centre on Sunday (1:30pm).

The third-placed Blues, who have made the last 10 grand finals, have a re-match with three-time defending champions Gosford next week after going down 4-1 to the Magpies on August 23. Norths round out this current stretch against Wests (September 6) and the Seapigs (September 10).

"A lot of the guys rather play than train anyway so hopefully we can get a roll on and keep improving," Willott said.

In Sunday's other fixture and Uni host Gosford (12pm). Wests, who were beaten 2-1 by Souths midweek, have the bye.

In the Newcastle District Women's Hockey Association premier league and second spot will be up for grabs when Gosford host Central (2pm) with both teams sitting on 10 competition points.

Back at Broadmeadow and Tigers tackle fourth-placed Regals (1:45pm) while Souths take on winless University (12:30pm). All games are on Saturday. Oxfords have the bye.

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