Winners of the Second Division KO at Scully Park two weeks ago, the Bulldogs have played just one premiership game, a last-minute win over Boggabri Kangaroos at Jubilee Oval, Boggabri on April 5.

The Kangaroos had led 12-10 with less than a minute to go but young Bulldogs centre Ty Fairweather scored for the Bulldogs to notch a 16-12 victory.

They haven’t played since, apart from their KO success.

“So we are a bit shy of match fitness,” Bulldogs captain-coach Tim Coombes said.

“We’re still a whisker light of a few numbers too.

“Jock and Jack Mallise are away shearing but should be back in two weeks. 

“Our big fullback, Kahlan Duncan, is out for a little while and a couple of others are away at a wedding this weekend.

“It’s going to test our depth.

“And we are expecting a real hard game down there.

“The Creek have improved since the KO and had a win last week as well.

“They’ve got a good forward pack with Thomas Brown and Tim Fenwick and Brian Darcy.

“They can lay the platform for a few of their quick little men.

“It’ll be tough all right. 

“We’re not as strong as we were last year and every game is going to be tough for us this year. We won’t be flogging anyone.

“Everyone will be lining up to beat us.”

While The Bulldogs travel to Werris Creek’s David Taylor Park today, Manilla is at home to Nathan Hamlin and his Kootingal Roosters while Bendemeer Mountain Men host Boggabri Kangaroos at Bendemeer Oval.

Clubs should remember to fax (67667631) their match report sheets through to The Leader by 7pm tonight.

G4 SECOND DIVISION TABLES

SECOND DIVISION SHIELD: Werris Creek 4, Dungowan 4, Kootingal 4, Barraba 4, Walcha 2, Manilla 2, Boggabri 0, Bendemeer 0. 

LADIES LEAGUE TAG: Barraba 4, Walcha 4, Werris Creek 4, Dungowan 2, Bendemeer 2, Manilla 2, Kootingal 2, Boggabri 0.