While Group 4 first division clubs Narrabri and West Lions play out at Collins Park, Narrabri on Sunday and the Wee Waa Panthers also host Gunnedah Bulldogs on Sunday, the Oxley Diggers and North Tamworth Bears take their first and second grade clashes to Manilla Showground tomorrow.

While the Ladies League Tag match between the two first divison clubs is played tonight (6.30pm kickoff), the men play tomorrow afternoon, second grade kicking off at noon after the ladies’ League Tag game between Manilla and Kootingal and then the Oxley Diggers-North clash after the Manilla Tigers-Kootingal Roosters Second Division match kicks off at 1.30pm.

It’s an innovative decision following on a number of attempts by former West Lions coach Tony La Chiusa to play similar double headers at Scully Park last season.

Group 4 secretary Mick Schmiedel said the  double header was “something new”.

“We’re a little bit excited about it,” Schmiedel said.

“We’re combining the first and second division and getting them to work together for a change.

“Hopefully down the track Manilla might be able to come into Tamworth and play another double header.

“It also alleviates our shortage of referees. 

“If we can work on more double headers, it will be better for everyone and make it easier on the refs as well.”

While the double header occurs at Manilla, the other two G4 Second Division games go ahead as normal.

Reigning premiers Barraba travel to David Taylor Park to tackle the resurgent Werris Creek Magpies and Bendemeer hosts Boggabri Kangaroos at Bendemeer Oval.

 Group 4 officials are hoping Wee Waa and Narrabri can sort out the wrangle over outstanding fullback Brenton Cochrane otherwise the Greater Northern management committee will be forced to make a decision when it meets in Tamworth on May 17.

Cochrane played for Wee Waa last season but has apparently signed to play with both Wee Waa and Narrabri this season.