A win would take both sides closer to securing the minor premiership but the COVID-19 situation in NSW brought a new dynamic to the game.

COVID safety precautions meant the top of the table clash was the only one that went ahead on the weekend and Gunnedah coach Dan Martin said his players went in with all the different factors in mind.

"The rest of the zone didn't play due to Armidale going into a snap lockdown and with the uncertainty in the air, I think the boys treated it as it could be their last hurrah for the season," he said.

CNRU has since released a statement on how they plan to move forward with the season but patrons were treated to a "very good game" at Rugby Park as Gunnedah clinched a 24-22 win with a penalty goal on the bell.

See Central North Rugby Union's statement below

The Red Devils led 14-0 early before momentum shifted.

"The first 20 minutes was probably some of the best football we've played as a team this year," Martin said.

"We put together a really good passage of play. We stuck to our structures. We talked about what we had to do and the boys went out there and really executed.

"Credit to Narrabri, they came back and came back strong. Made it more of an arm wrestle and we got drawn into, a bit of, their game play which eventually then saw, at the back end of the half, a lot of possession go to Narrabri."

READ ALSO:

The Blue Boars went on to lead 22-21 in the dying moments of the match before Gunnedah were awarded a penalty, Martin said.

James Perrett, who had already scored a try and kicked three goals, stepped up and nailed the shot on goal.

"I think all the boys lifted really well but James Perrett played really well again," Martin said.

"Ron Hobden played his best as well, young Marcus Hayne was quite strong as well through the centre at five eighth."

The Red Devils next play Moree and a win will see Gunnedah claim the minor premiership.