By Tallon Smith

The Coonabarabran Unicorns have announced their return to the Castlereagh Rugby League by running out 32-22 winners over the Baradine Magpies at Coonabarabran No.1 Oval last Saturday.

The Unicorns, who were in recess in 2022 have returned to the competition in 2023 albeit with only a men’s side, with the club opting not to field a ladies league tag team.

NSWRL League and Club Support Coordinator Jack Ramage said that the match was a “massive occasion for Coonabarabran after sitting out last season,” he said.

“Coona have a new team together and [are] being well coached by Dustin Crawley, with his brother Dylan Crawley coming on board as manager.”

“[A] massive crowd was in attendance to watch the oldest rivalry in the Castlereagh League,” he said.

Despite the loss, Ramage holds great hope for last season’s wooden spooners Baradine in 2023.

“Baradine have seen some massive improvement with coach Daniel Howe leading a young hungry forward pack around,” he said.

“Exciting times ahead for the Baradine Magpies.”

Despite suffering a huge 38-12 defeat to Dunedoo, who are celebrating their centenary year in 2023, Ramage also believes that Binnaway will still be a competitive side this year.

“Binnaway are a young team led by captain-coach Brad Fuller at the age of 19.”

This would make Fuller the equal youngest coach in bush footy this year, alongside 2022 Battler of the Year and Barcaldine skipper Mannix Hunt in Queensland.

Meanwhile, Gulgong defeated Narromine in a shootout 42-32, in a match in which “try scoring featured” according to Ramage.

“Luke Thompson was at his damaging best but just couldn’t get Narromine over the line for a win,” he said. 

The final game for the weekend saw defending premiers Cobar hold off Coonamble 26-12 for a “hard fought win” according to Ramage.

“Coonamble are a young team as well and will always be a tough task at home,” he said.

League Tag results saw Coonamble defeat Cobar 20-18, Baradine hold on for a 20-16 win over Gilgandra and Dunedoo demolish Binnaway 60-0 whilst Narromine matched that score in their win over Gulgong.

In the Youth League competition, Cobar edged out Binnaway 28-24, whilst Narromine thrashed Gilgandra 62-0.

In week two this weekend, Narromine face Coonamble at home, Gilgandra host Gulgong, Dunedoo tackle Coonabarabran and Baradine travel to Cobar, with Binnaway getting the weekend off.

Cover Photo: The Coonabarabran Unicorns after their win on Saturday (Supplied: Castlereagh Rugby League)