The Scorpions scored six tries to three in a convincing display.

The home team led 16-10 at the break.

The result moved Macquarie to 12 competition points, and into fourth position on the Tooheys Cup premiership ladder, with three games to play.

Mathew Hay, Josh Schmiedel, Nathan Cantor, Andy Sumner, Teason Fa'Avae-Eli and Chris Hyde scored tries for the Scorpions, who have a bye this weekend.

■ Ladder: Lakes United 16, Wests 16, Cessnock 13, Macquarie 12, Souths 12, Central Newcastle 8, Kurri Kurri 6, Maitland 5.