GROUP 4 has finalised its 2019 season draw and is now preparing to start its season on the May 4-5 weekend.
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"It's been a work in progress, over a long period of time, due to the addition of three new teams in reserve grade, plus the addition of Manilla to reserve grade and ladies league tag and the uncertainty surrounding some clubs," Group 4 chairman Ray McCoy said.
"Whilst we are disappointed it has taken so long, it was unavoidable given the fact clubs were still trying to work out how many players they had and how many teams they would be able to enter."
McCoy said Barraba pulled out of 2019 two weeks ago "showed the effect the drought and other problems have had on our clubs".
"Hopefully they will be back next year, as they're already planning to do just that," he said.
With seven teams in first grade, plus a bye, Barraba's decision to sit out the season brought the number of teams in reserve grade back to eight.
McCoy said that allowed the draw to be re-jigged and provide all clubs with the opportunity to have all their teams play at the same venue on the same day on most occasions throughout the season.
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"Whilst the new draw works smoothly through first grade, reserve grade and under-18s, with nine teams in the ladies league tag competition, all clubs will have to compromise and work together to complete the LLT draw, and that in itself will provide supporters with a feast of quality ladies league tag." McCoy said.
He said the compromises could take the shape of double-headers, gala days or Friday night games, but that will be left up to the clubs.
There is also the weekend of April 27-28 ( Wests Tigers play the Gold Coast Titans in an NRL game at Scully Park on April 27) that is free free for clubs to play LLT games, he added.
"It's an exciting time and we are delighted to have been able to overcome all the problems associated with drafting a draw with uneven club numbers in four grades," McCoy said.
"But now that it's in place, we can look forward to a very exciting season of Group 4 rugby league.
"It has been a testing time for us. But we have tried to ensure all our clubs aren't disadvantaged and have the chance to promote themselves and their players in the community."
In the opening round of the first grade competition, there are three intriguing matchups, including reigning champions North Tamworth travelling to Werris Creek to play the Magpies at David Taylor Park on the Saturday, and Kootingal-Moonbi Roosters hosting Dungowan Cowboys at Kootingal Oval the same day. They will play for the Pepperell Shield.
Narrabri Blues and Boggabri Kangaroos then complete the first round on the Sunday, when they clash in a local derby at Collins Park.
Gunnedah have the first grade bye but play Manilla in second grade and ladies league tag at Manilla on the Saturday.
