Davis played in what was then the Northern Inland Premier League when Gunnedah United were involved in it. It has though been a few years since Gunnedah had a top-flight presence, with Gunnedah FC, which was formed when United and the Gunnedah and District Soccer Association merged, playing in the local Tamworth competition.

"We've been wanting to get back into the premier league since we left," he said.

READ ALSO:

But for one reason or another that never eventuated.

When the existing format was scrapped in favour of what has evolved into the Premier Division, it opened the door for their return.

"This new premier league with the Tamworth sides, us, Quirindi and Kooty suits us," Davis said.

It has though been a bit of a tough initiation, drawing a red-hot Oxley Vale Attunga first-up, and then defending premier league champions Tamworth FC. Another big test awaits this weekend, with FC travelling over to Tamworth to face the third of the old premier league sides - North Companions.

Davis, who first started playing in the senior ranks when he was 16, said the year will be a good learning experience, especially for the younger players.

"We've got a good bunch of young kids coming through," he said.

"We're getting the traction we wanted of juniors coming through."

The decision to step up and test themselves against some of the top teams in the region was as much about giving them the opportunity to develop as anything.

Skipper Matt Williams spoke after the Mushies game about the difference in pace and physicality. Davis also noted that understanding that they have.

"The sides in the Premier League, and OVA are a prime example, have been playing together for a long time, and you can tell," he said.

"They've got a good stable of players that they can draw on."

He said they were probably a bit "undercooked" that first game but showed that they can compete against those top sides against FC.

Support the local news that keeps you informed subscribe today.