The draw is set to be announced on Friday, although Country Eagles general manager James Grant and president David Carter were proud to announce yesterday that three games would  be played in regional areas, including the Tamworth fixture.

The NRC is a third tier national competition that was unrolled last year, essentially as a pathway between club and Super Rugby, played after the traditional season.

The other two games will be played in Bathurst and Newcastle, while the local game will be played between the Eagles and the Sydney Stars at Ken Chillingworth Oval.

“Bringing three NRC matches to the bush last year was fantastic and we can’t wait to do it again in 2015,” Grant said.

“We thought it was appropriate to play it at a rugby ground.”

Last season the Eagles were seen as underdogs before surprising many by exploding onto the scene with a string of wins to start the season that ended in the semi-finals and, although the side hasn’t officially been named, both administrators are excited about the second year.

“It will be tougher this season,” Carter said.

“We have got a few more away games but should have a very competitive side.

“We would like a few more in the crowd this year.” 

The end goal is to have between 5000 and 10,000 spectators at home games, including the country fixtures like the one here.

The Tamworth Magpies will also play a role in hosting the match, although may get their own chance after Grant made a commitment to bring games to the region for at least three more years.

“We have to go to areas that are strong in rugby and have made a commitment to Central North,” Grant said.

“We will bring the games out and let Central North decide where to play them.” 

The Elders Development Tour also included a few clinics around local schools and clubs.

Yesterday the Wallabies were at Calrossy and Farrer, before hosting a coaching master class last night for Central North coaches.

This morning the tour will arrive at St Nicholas, before hosting a clinic for all Central North Juniors at Tamworth Rugby Park from 5pm.

“It all starts at grass roots,” Grant said.

“Who knows, we may even find a future Eagle or two at one of our clinics.”