Bega were arguably the hardest hit club during the off-season with a half-dozen players switching to the maroons where they will take the field for an ex-Bega coach in James Scott. 

It was a mass exodus that caused something of a social media spat over the summer and now rugby league fans from both towns are expecting one of the most fiery clashes of the season. 

Tathra president Peter Finucane said the focus would be on the footy, "not showing off pugilistic ability". 

"We're not into that, we just want to play football and show off our ability on the field," he said. 

Finucane said there had been speculation about the atmosphere ahead of the game, but for Tathra it will be a critical chance to prove match fitness. 

"We're just focused on getting the guys together for the run," he said. "We were hoping to put on a trial, but the season came ahead and it threw our timeline off."

Bega spokesman Dave Armstrong said there would be some "spice" during the game, but the mood between the clubs have been over-exaggerated. 

"There isn't any feuding, I think there is more talk than the reality," he said. "These guys are all great mates so that will put some tension into play, they're all good friends, but sometimes your mates are on the other side of the field."

He admitted there was some initial "disappointment" in the Roosters' camp with the number of players shifting, but said it was a great opportunity for James Scott to take a lead coaching role and Bega had accepted the move as an improvement to first grade footy overall. 

"We've been fortunate with the numbers we've got to overcome the losses," Mr Armstrong said. 

He praised the development and return of players like Todd Ingram, Scott Galeano and Dan Hyland who will step into first grade this year. 

"With blokes like Jarrod Tamatea, Tom McMillan and Ryan Apps looking after you, it's a pretty optimistic start to the season."

What could stand to hurt the Roosters, Mr Armstrong said, is the immediate loss of Tom Taylor, who tore his ACL during the Nines in Cooma. 

Taylor is a bit of a league prodigy and had been a hallmark signing for the tri-colours. 

The derby will be played at the Bega Recreation Ground on Sunday, but Mr Armstrong said the reserve grade clash was uncertain. 

The fixture wouldn't be confirmed until late Thursday (after print) so two sets of game times are planned. 

Should reserves go ahead the day will start at 10.30am with Bega 18s to face Bulldogs. League-tag at noon, reserves 1pm and firsts at 2.30pm. 

If the reserves is cancelled games will be 11.30am league-tag, 12.30pm for the 18s and then first grade from 2pm.