The 48-6 pasting was Gunnedah's worst performance of the season and their third straight loss. Post-match, Bulldogs centre Aaron Donnelly labelled the side's effort "a f***ing disgrace".

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Schmiedel, in his first season in charge of the Dogs, also did not address his players at the break, preferring instead to absorb the late-afternoon sunshine as he slouched on a chair sideline - chuckling at the on-field half-time activity.

It was 20-6 at the break.

The frosty display came after Schmiedel last week questioned whether it was worth his while travelling with the side, given "they don't want to do what I tell them".

After the Bulldogs' 26-20 loss to North Tamworth in round three, veteran journalist Geoff Newling reported that Schmiedel gave his players one of the all-time big sprays in Group 4 history.

Post-match on Sunday, Gunnedah centre Dylan O'Brien said Bulldogs captain Reece Jaeger "gave us a good talking to" at the break.

He declined to comment on Schmiedel leaving the ground without addressing his troops.

"We definitely can do better," he said.

Kootingal-Moonbi were a juggernaut on Sunday, with their forwards dominating, their spine purring, their structure excellent and their defence resolute.

They lead the competition after seven rounds, their only loss coming when they travelled to Moree with a depleted side in round three.

One of their main premiership rivals, third-placed North Tamworth, were beaten 24-22 by Narrabri on Sunday - bringing to an end their incredible 47-match unbeaten run at home. The Bears have suffered back-to-back losses for the first time in a long time.

Gunnedah have slipped from fourth to fifth on the ladder.

Kooty scored nine tries to one on Sunday, after Gunnedah opened proceedings when No 9 Liam Ireland reached out to score in the third minute.

Speedy Roosters winger Nic Zahra bagged a try hat-trick and No 6 Jordan Sharpe grabbed a double.

While former Eels flyer Ethan Parry - who played two NRL games in 2019 - put in another eye-catching display at fullback, including a destructive first-half try in which the big-bodied speedster shunted off defenders.

Kooty coach Geoff Sharpe said it was "a good day" and "easily" the Roosters' best display this year.

Kootingal Moonbi: 48 (N Zahra 3, J Sharpe 2, K Hartmann, E Parry, K Cochrane, R Mackay tries; S Taylor 8 goals) d Gunnedah: 6 (L Ireland try; D O'Brien con).

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