Footy is back.
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After a long, hot off-season dominated by the red and white stitching of cricket balls, football returns to Armidale tomorrow.
While there have been a number of trial matches held across the city in recent weeks, footy tragics are jumping out of their boots in anticipation for the official kick off of the New England Rugby Competition tomorrow.
Five teams will again contest the first grade competition, with Glen Innes replacing Guyra in the top grade. The association also has a new president in David Clifton.
Clifton has been involved with rugby in the Central North and New England since the 1970s.
New England Rugby were concerned for the first grade competition when Guyra pulled out after finishing last in 2014, but Glen Innes stepping up has eased that somewhat.
“Having that extra team will make a hell of a difference,” Clifton said. “It would be great to have six or seven first grade sides.
“That is our aim moving forward.”
Glen Innes join 2014 premiers the Armidale Blues, Armidale Barbarians and University of New England sides St Albert’s and Robb College in the top grade. Clifton said he has no concern the Elks will not be up to first grade standard.
“I think and they certainly think they are up to it,” he said.
While losing Guyra from first grade, the Ghosts haven’t pulled out of the competition completely.
“They will still field second and third grades sides,” Clifton said.
“Rugby league sides have started up again in Guyra and Warialda so that put a stop to those sides [Guyra Ghosts] and Gwydir River Rats] stepping up to first grade.” Pressed on who was his favourite to take out the 2015 premiership, Clifton said it was impossible to pick a winner this time of year.
“Last year’s competition was wide open and it showed in the results,” he said.
“All clubs are in it again this year. You can’t under estimate any of them.”
Round one kicks off with Albies hosting Baa Baas at Bellevue Oval and Armidale hosting Robb College at Moran Oval.