The imposing centre-back was forced off at halftime of the Magpies' 2-0 loss to Broadmeadow with a shoulder injury. He was rested from their 7-1 Australia Cup win over Newcastle University on Tuesday night but returned to training on Thursday night.

Magpies assistant coach Gavin Wolfe said Thomas was in significant pain after suffering what was believed to a partial dislocation last Saturday but he appeared to be recovering well.

"He trained last night, so we'll just see how he backs up today and tomorrow morning before we decide if he'll take the pitch," Wolfe said on Friday.

"Zach and Will McFarlane have formed a really good partnership at the back in a short time.

"Zach is a natural athlete and a good footballer for us there, so we're absolutely hoping he'll be fit and able to play against Charlestown.

"He seemed to be OK last night but we'll give him until the 11^th hour to make sure."

Thomas has developed into one of the best centre-backs in the league in recent seasons at Maitland, who are in third spot on 10 points from five games.

Charlestown, with marquee signings Nigel Boogaard and Jacob Melling leading the way, have 13 points from five games and are proving genuine title contenders.

Wolfe said Maitland, who were second last year, could ill-afford to drop more points after the disappointment of last week's loss, where they conceded in the opening minute.

"The last couple of years, the team that wins the comp is dropping only two or three games, if that, so you can't drop them early," he said.

"Obviously last week was a bit of a wake-up call for us. That's one down, and we also had that draw against Cooks Hill in the first round, so we really need to bounce back, because we can't afford to give up too many more points."

Charlestown coach Graham Law said his side had come through unscathed from their 2-1 win over Adamstown on Monday. Only Beau Wilkins (knee), who won't play this season, has been missing for Azzurri.

Law said it was only early in the season but the prospect of opening a six-point gap on a team like Maitland was attractive.

"Since I've been at Charlestown, Maitland have been our hardest opponent," said Law, who is in his third season at Azzurri.

"They are a good unit, strong at the back and electric up front. I actually enjoy watching them play as a spectator. They've got players in their team I'd pay to watch, but we're very confident with where we are at so hopefully we can give them a tough game."

Also Saturday, Olympic host Cooks Hill from 4.30pm. On Sunday, Lambton Jaffas travel to meet Valentine, while Edgeworth are away to Lake Macquarie (both 2pm).

On Friday night, Broadmeadow hosted Weston.

IN THE NEWS:

Our journalists work hard to provide local, up-to-date news to the community. This is how you can continue to access our trusted content:

Follow us on Google News