Sam Anderson has set his sights on returning from a concussion lay-off this month as the Pickers bid to claim a state title.
Despite initial fears his season may have been over after just three games, the former NRL forward has resumed training recently and wants to rejoin the undefeated competition leaders before the President's Cup campaign finishes.
Finals-bound Maitland have a top-of-the-table clash with the North Sydney Bears on Saturday (1pm) before a last-round meeting against the third-placed Glebe Burwood Wolves at Henson Park the following weekend.
Semis will take place across the 19th-20th with winners progressing to a decider at Parramatta's Bankwest Stadium on the last Sunday in September.
Anderson said any comeback would only occur after consulting University of Newcastle neurological expert Andrew Gardiner.
"I would love to get back out there," Anderson said.
"My goal is to play again at some stage if all goes well.
"Training has been good and I've had no issues ... but it just depends how I feel and I wouldn't be doing anything without his [Gardiner's] advice."
Anderson suffered three concussions in an as many appearances earlier this season, which started in mid-July after being delayed by the coronavirus crisis.
He said the first two knocks were "minor" but described the third one as "decent".
MRI scans and cognitive tests have cleared Anderson of any major damage.
The 29-year-old, who featured seven times for the Penrith Panthers between 2013 and 2015, has been on the sidelines for a month.
"It has been a bit hard to watch because you want to be playing, but they are flying at the moment," Anderson said.
Maitland coach Matt Lantry has named a relatively unchanged 17 from last start. Marvin Filipo is now available following a two-match suspension while Jarred Anderson (abductor) remains unlikely.
North Sydney are mentored by former Bears legend Jason Taylor. Pickers halfback and President's Cup leading point scorer Brock Lamb played NSW Cup for the club under Taylor last year.
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