Police are appealing for witnesses to come forward after a man was punched and stabbed during an attempted armed robbery in Rutherford yesterday.

About 9.25pm (Monday 5 January 2015), a 33-year-old man was walking close to the intersection of Aberglasslyn Road and Alexandra Avenue when he noticed two men behind him.

Police have been told the two men ran towards the man, when one punched him in the neck.

The same man then stabbed the 33-year-old in the leg, before demanding his wallet and keys.

When the injured man refused, the pair ran from the scene in a southerly direction.

The man ran to his home and called emergency services. He was taken to John Hunter Hospital where he is expected to receive surgery to a stab wound to his leg.

Officers attached to Central Hunter Local Area Command are investigating the incident and would like to speak to two men who may be able to assist them with their inquiries.

The first man is described as being of Aboriginal/Torres Strait Islander appearance, about 20 – 25 years old, of slim build, 178cm tall, and was seen wearing a black cap, a black hooded jumper, cargo pants and brown shoes.

The second man is described as being of Caucasian appearance, about 20-25 years old, of slim build, about 178cm tall and was seen wearing a black cap, black hooded jumper, denim pants and black shoes.