Greater Northern Tigers under-18s and men to tackle Western Rams with semi-final berths in their sights

That's the situation for the four GNT sides when they host Western Rams at Farrer Memorial Agricultural High School's John Simpson Oval in Tamworth on Saturday.

The Darryl Rando-coached under-18 Tigers have won three of their four Laurie Daley Cup matches so far while the Brad McManus-coached Tiger men stunned plenty of people when they upset Newcastle Maitland Knights 34-12 in Cessnock last Saturday.

READ ALSO:

The final makeup of the side is set to be finalised before Friday night's final training run at Jack Woolaston Oval.

"I'm looking forward to Saturday," Tigers coach Brad McManus said.

"We've got nothing to lose. I didn't think anyone expected us to beat Newcastle at Cessnock."

Tex Lagmiri's form on debut for the Tigers was typical of the side's display against Newcastle.

The Fijian import ran the ball like a prop rather than a winger, the new North Tamworth Bear rushing the ball up to the defence without fear or favour.

"He was real good," McManus said with a warming smile.

"Did a real good job."

He wasn't the only Tiger debutante to impress. Brady Benkovic also produced a big game, the backrower producing an outstanding game as an undersized prop.

So too Jayden Rosberg, the nuggety backrower working throughout.

Also Scott Briggs, the former Lakes United pivot played with aplomb and an unrushed, calming tempo.

The men will be the third of the four GNT sides to hit the field and will hopefully be looking to join the under-18s in the semi's, although it won't be easy Rando acknowledged.

"It's going to be a challenge for us," the Tigers' 18s mentor said.

"It's all up to the boys. I don't know much about them (Western Rams). I have heard they have a good hooker, a good pack and a good half back."

The challenge is not only provided by a strong Rams side but also for the Tigers to improve.

"We've got to play better, more consistently and build pressure," Rando added.

Building that pressure for longer periods can only enhance the Tigers results, he said.

Saturday's action starts at 10am with the under-16's. That is followed by the U18's (around 11.20am), men (around 1pm) and women (around 2.30pm).

It will be a big day of footy with Kootingal hosting the Singleton Greyhounds in under-18's and senior men.

The juniors kick off at 3pm, advised Roosters coach Geoff Sharpe, with the seniors at 4pm.

Group 4 will meanwhile take another major step towards a return to the playing paddock at West Leagues Club on Sunday.

With Wests now on board as official major sponsor for the 2021 season the 10 Group 4 clubs have a general meeting to discuss the new season and rubber stamp the new draw.

Group 4 chairman Terry Psarakis said the Board has opted for a May 1 start to the 2021 competition with grand final day on September 12.

"The draw for the new season is the main point for discussion," Psarakis said.

"Deciding on a venue for the grand final is something else we will talk about too."

Our journalists work hard to provide local, up-to-date news to the community. This is how you can continue to access our trusted content: