For North Tamworth, the 12 rounds that preceded this weekend’s matches seem like a dress rehearsal to what transpired in the first half against Gunnedah at Jack Woolaston Oval on Sunday.
Subscribe now for unlimited access.
$0/
(min cost $0)
or signup to continue reading
On a glorious winter day the reigning three-time premiers transcended their earlier performances with a first half of football that fused the side’s potent mix of mature and burgeoning talent to leave Gunnedah looking like pretenders in the 44-18 top-of-the-table triumph.
Bears skipper Scott Blanch scored two first-half tries – including a stunning solo effort that showcased all his considerable skill and baffled defenders – as the home side bullied the Bulldogs to lead 34-4 at half-time.
The former Manly signing, the competition’s best player, then scored early in the second half, before the Bulldogs regrouped with tries to winger Nick Attman and replacement Rod Lawler that allowed them to leave Tamworth with their pride intact, although their premiership credentials look weaker.
In three matches this season, they are yet to beat Norths. And based on this match, they are a couple of steps behind them.
Norths second-rower James Cooper, a veteran of the Bears’ trifecta of premierships, said the side went into the match intent on making a statement.
“For us, the first 40 was probably the best 40 we’ve put together this year, which is very pleasing,” he said. “Probably half-time came at the wrong time – we would rather have continued playing.”
He added: ”It was a statement, and that was the plan.”