Narrabri are in the box seat to claim the remaining finals spot and will be looking to take another step towards completing the finals puzzle when they host Tamworth at Dangar Park on Saturday.
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With two rounds remaining, the Blue Boars sit three-points clear of Inverell atop Tier 2 standings.
The Highlanders are then a point ahead of Quirindi, who they host in the other clash.
Inverell got the points last time the two sides met, but Lions coach Toby Simkin feels they go into Saturday in much better shape.
Having found some late season form they are coming off back to back wins, and, he said, will look to target the Highlanders outwide.
That’s where the Lions’ strength lies as they have shown the last couple of weeks. The question will be whether the forwards can hold their own, and provide the backs enough ball to work their magic.
The Magpies will head to Narrabri hurting after a heavy loss to the Lions, but looking to make amends for their first round meeting with the Blue Boars.
Magpies coach Craig Summers felt for 60 minutes they were the better side but just 15 minutes cost them.
He again spoke about needing to improve their discipline. It’s been a continual issue for them.
“We give away far too many penalties at the ruck and for being offside,” he said.
“And move up and take their space.
“They’ve got a pretty young backline and a bit of speed.”
He’d also like to see them be a bit more direct in attack.
“We cramped across a bit too much last week, and cut our outside backs out a bit,” Summers said.
