A bumper crowd is expected at Kitchener Park for a blockbuster Group 4 rugby league showdown this Saturday, as the Gunnedah Bulldogs and Boggabri Kangaroos square off.
The stakes are high, as both teams strive to strengthen their finals chances while the Boyde Campbell Cup is contested.
With the late Boyde Campbell having played for both clubs before taking his own life in 2017, there is extra incentive for the Bulldogs and Kangaroos when they face off with the aforementioned trophy up for grabs.
First contested in 2018, the memorial match rotates between the Gunnedah and Boggabri venues each year while funds raised on the day are in aid of mental health.
When the Namoi rivals encountered each other on Boggabri soil back on May 31, the hosts overcame a 20-0 deficit to record a stirring 24-20 victory.
Now with only two more rounds remaining before the finals, the two teams are locked on 17 competition points along with North Tamworth and Werris Creek while Moree is on 18 points.
With the fifth-placed team missing the finals, the losing team this Saturday could be in danger of falling into that unwanted position.
Boggabri is coming off a disappointing 44-12 loss to Moree, while Gunnedah is coming off a mistake-prone 64-4 victory over the last-placed Wee Waa.
The May 31 showdown involving Gunnedah and Boggabri also came after a hefty loss for the Kangaroos against Moree as well as a 60-point win for the Bulldogs against Wee Waa.
In reserve grade, Boggabri will seek to consolidate fourth spot while Gunnedah battles to stay in contention for the same ladder position.
The Bulldogs reserve graders return from a bye while the Kangaroos are coming off a 26-20 win.
Boggabri’s leaguetaggers are still seeking their first win of the season while Gunnedah seeks to remain in contention for a top four spot.
