Having overcome Quirindi and Kootingal in the first two rounds, Gunnedah FC knew they’d have a tough task overcoming Tamworth’s Hillview Rovers.

Reserve grade got the day off to a positive start, notching a 4-1 win.

TJ Pollock was the standout as he recorded a hat-trick before Adam Winner rounded out the dominant display with 20 yard shot that nestled into the top corner of the goal.

“I was especially pleased for TJ who has struggled with a foot injury in the past few weeks,” coach Andy Cygan said.

It didn’t take long for the first grade side to nick a goal after a foul in the box allowed Cygan to score from the penalty spot. 

Rob Pryor finally got back to scoring ways going through 1 on 1 with the keeper before rounding him and scoring from a tight angle.

With the score at 2-0 at half time the heavens opened and made it a very tough second half with the field badly cutting up.

Sam Hos went through and hit one at the keeper who struggled to hold on in the conditions to make it 3-0.

“A lapse in concentration allowed a weak goal for Hillview although they probably deserved a goal,” Cygan said.

The result means Gunnedah stay top of the ladder going into this weekend’s local derby against Gunnedah Hawks.

“We had 20 players train on Friday night and have backed it up with 19 on Tuesday,” Cygan said.

“Every player now knows they are playing for places and are showing such improvement. 

“This weekend we play our first local derby game, which as everyone will know, can go either way.

"I just hope we can put a good show in for those supporters that turn up,” Cygan said.

The Hawks will hope to use the local clash as an opportunity to turn their season around after being bested in their opening two games by South United and North Companions.