Gunnedah found their rhythm in the second half on Saturday to overcome a determined Barraba and bounce back from a tough loss to Inverell to kick-off the second round.
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Through a combination of their own lack of composure and some accurate play from the Rams, the Red Devils found themselves leading just 19-10 at half-time.
But the home side got it together in the second half to kick away for a 50-15 win.
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"[In the first half] We just didn't stick to our structures and systems, and we were pushing the pass instead of grinding out what we had to do," Red Devils coach Dan Martin said.
"The guys weren't composed and kept pushing things."
That then led to knock-ons and turn overs.
Some of their option taking also left "a little bit to be desired."
"It was a bit frustrating given we had the weight of possession and territory
"But we weren't able to convert it into points," Martin said.
The Rams in contrast whenever they got in the Red Devils 22 picked up points, exciting young winger Liam Mack crossing twice. He went on to score all three of their tries.
After a few stern words at half-time, the Red Devils were much more composed in the second half.
"The second half we got back to our systems and structures," Martin said.
The forwards led the way in the resurgence, with prop Lachie McArthur one of their best.
He was very good up front, Martin said. Ray Spradbrow was also good at openside breakaway while Marcus Hayne played well at five-eighth.
He was one of two double tryscorers, halves partner Ben Maunder also crossing twice.
The win and Pirates' loss to Scone saw the Red Devils reclaim second spot as the top four merry-go-round continued.
They have Quirindi this Saturday and are set to welcome a few players back.
It was also a successful day for the women's side winning both of their games as Gunnedah hosted the second gala day.
After knocking off competition leaders Pirates 24-7, they then accounted for Barraba 24-12.
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