League-tag will open proceedings at the Bega recreation ground from 4pm with reserves on deck from 5pm and the headline first grade taking the field at 6.30pm. 

Roosters president Garry Arkin said the round is chock-full of interest as the Bega Chicks and first grade Roosters are running undefeated on their respective ladders.

“With Bombala captain Joe Bobbin on deck they are gaining momentum as they strive for a win over the unbeaten hometown Roosters,” Arkin said. 

Meanwhile, secretary Brenton Blair was hoping for a good rollup of spectators as the club takes advantage of its ground lighting. 

“It will be a big afternoon and night of football,” Blair said. “The league-tag match has many tipping it already as the grand final showdown.”

Several women from both sides were selected in the Group 16 roster, while Joccoaa Rogers and Kezie Apps have been called up for the Greater Southern Stars side. 

Arkin said both girls deserved their selection as both put in dedicated efforts at training and reaped the rewards for their efforts. 

“We wish them well in the country championships next month,” he said. 

The reserve grade will be a similarly strong contest, Arkin said. 

“It will be a battle royale with Bombala led by veterans Clay Stewart and Clay Clear throwing down the gauntlet to Wayne Northey’s charges in an expected no-holds-barred contest,” Arkin said. 

Coach Northey is expecting a physical game from the Blue Heelers. 

“They will play it tough and we know we will have to meet the physical challenge with a disciplined focus,” Northey said. 

Despite a startling score lead over Batemans Bay in the previous round, first grade coach Kane Morgan said basics will be key on the weekend. 

“We need to be focused on doing the little things right and wearing our opponents down by the ends of the 80 minutes,” Morgan said. 

The club had players gain invaluable experience during representative play last weekend as Scott Fuller, Todd Ingram, Mitch Carter, Ryan Apps and half James Bower-Scott took on Group 6 in the Greater Southern Stars campaign. 

Morgan will look to their experience to counter the likes of Tyler Jones, Bobbin, Paul Perkins and Luke Ingram to keep the ball rolling for the tri-colours. 

Bega captain Ryan impressed during the selection trials and has been called up for the Stars.

Arkin congratulated Ryan on his efforts and also commended all the players who made the Group 16 roster.

A scheduled under 18s contest will be played at another time.