You have to delve fairly deep into the records to find the last time North Tamworth lost back-to-back Group 4 first grade games.
Back in 2013 was the last time it happened, according to the Group 4 website.
On that occasion the Bears actually lost three games on the trot when they were beat by Wests Lions (20-14), Wee Waa (46-40) and Gunnedah 36-34, from round eight to 10.
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Back-to-back losses haven’t happened since and North Tamworth forward James Cooper said the Bears will have to be “much better” than they have been if they are to stop it happening in season 2018 after being beaten by Gunnedah last weekend.
“The last two weeks, we played Narrabri out there and we were poor but won by two and then we didn’t play to first grade standard in Gunnedah,” Cooper said.
“We started both of those matches very poorly. We were lethargic at the beginning of those games.
“Everyone’s been upbeat and energetic at training and the first goal for us is to complete six sets. If we defended well for six sets that takes you 15 minutes into the game.”
This weekend the Bears will travel half an hour down the road to take on Werris Creek.
The Magpies come into the game off a bye and have four wins to their name – three of which have come in their last four matches.
They also pushed North Tamworth last time they met – the Magpies went down by 12 in round five.
“Werris Creek are in good form. They took Kootingal – who are the best team in the comp – into extra time and they beat Gunnedah on their Old Boys Day while we’re coming off a loss to Gunnedah,” Cooper said.
“Obviously, we’re going there to get a win but we’re under no illusions that it’ll be easy.”
While North Tamworth will clash with Werris Creek at David Taylor Oval, Narrabri will host Dungowan at Collins Park and rivals Boggabri and Gunnedah will meet at Jubilee Oval.
