The Boggabilla-based Warriors face another tough test this weekend when surprise packets Guyra make their first trip north, although the pressure will be all on the fourth- placed Spuds.

Guyra are now in the position that they need to bank the two points after a loss to Ashford last week saw them slip three points behind the Roosters and equally second-placed Inverell Hawks.

The Boomerangs are now hot on their heels and, if the Spuds lose and the Rangs beat the Boars in the derby as they did a few weeks ago, Guyra will only hold a one-point lead over the Rangs who are desperate to sneak into the top four and grab a finals berth.

To make the battle for fourth even more interesting, the Rangs and Spuds still have a washed-out match up their sleeve that either needs to be played before the regular rounds end or the points will be split.

The Warriors chose to split the points with the Boars from that weekend and, with a three-point advantage at the top, look like being in prime position to be hosting a semi-final just months after opening their home ground.

Last week the Boars led the Warriors in the first half  before the home side scored a late try and kicked the goal on the half- time whistle to go into the sheds at 16 apiece and then pulling away in the second half for a 44-28 victory.

President Peter Rice said  the side was a bit ordinary in the opening half but managed to turn it around to close out the game well.

“The difference was we hung on to the ball in the second half and a few things came off,” Rice said.

“It was a tough game and we made a few mistakes.

“It was just one of those games.” 

Once again, Mal McGrady didn’t have any trouble finding the line, crossing three times to lead his side out of trouble and take his season tally to 60 points with 18 goals and six tries, equal leader with Ashford’s Luke Berger who has amassed 15 tries.

McGrady and halves partner Kerrod Sampson, who crossed twice last week, will have to be on the ball both in attack and defence this week.

Guyra also boast a dangerous attacking backline led by five-eighth Alistair Faulkner, who is sitting third on the points tally, in what is shaping up to be an entertaining game for the ever-growing Warriors faithful who have been turning out in good numbers to support the new club.

“We had over 1000 people at the opening game and then had a good crowd in terrible conditions last week,” Rice said.

“It has been great.” 

While Rice is hopeful that the Warriors can host a home final in their establishment year, the president doesn’t want to get too far ahead of himself, with five rounds remaining in what has turned out to be a surprisingly competitive competition.

“We are on top and unbeaten and that will do for the time being.” 

In other matches the Boomerangs and Boars will meet at Boughton Oval for another big Moree derby, while Inverell will host the troubled Tingha Tigers who sit last.