MOSMAN coach Steve Neilan concedes not playing in the State Cup has hindered the progress of his squad this year.
The Whales are sitting in seventh spot and last week were disappointed to lose 3-0 to Forest Killarney.
It doesnt get any easier this Sunday, lining up against Manly Allambie, who blitzed Brookvale 7-1 last start.
It has been a disjointed year, no doubt about that, Neilan said.
Due to other teams playing in the State Cup we havent been able to get any momentum only having games here and there.
A few weeks ago we did well to get a draw versus (league leaders) Beacon Hill, we will look to build on that performance.
Manly Allambie boss Kyle Cannon is hoping his team can once again be ruthless in front of goal at Millers Reserve.
We wont take Mosman lightly, the challenge for us is to find ways to keep improving, he said.
They have a few good players, it will be a good test for us.
Elsewhere, Seaforth host Brookvale, Wakehurst do battle with Beacon Hill and Manly Vale lock horns with Forest Killarney.