“This year it’s been very close in both divisions,” he said.

In the 12/13 age group, the Mariners will take on City from 11.30am, while the youth Mariners will face off against Victory from 1pm. 

“The Mariners played City previously and it went to a penalty shootout, and last week Mariners narrowly won - they scored a goal within the last five seconds of the game to make it to the grand final,” Alliston said. 

“Each team has a chance of winning.” He said the quality of the games this year was high.

Inverell FC has been invited to join the Armidale competition next year due to their successful season and growing membership. Two senior teams will be submitted into the competition. 

“It allows a pathway for our juniors. Our older juniors, approaching 18, it provides an opportunity for them to keep playing football,” Alliston said. 

It has been a strong season for Inverell FC, with 385 registered players in 42 teams. Under 14s players Isaac Browett and Will Alliston had success during the Brisbane Roar clinic earlier in the year, and were asked to trial with the club.

“There was a lot of enthusiasm this year amongst the kids, but also with the parents and volunteers. We were pretty overwhelmed with the amount of help we got this year,” Alliston said.

In particular, parents came out in droves to help the local club run their first carnival in 10 years. 

“It’s probably been one of our best seasons to date,” Alliston said. 

The non competitive games start at the sports complex at 9am on Saturday, September 16. Community members are welcome, and a barbecue will be available. The presentations for the competitive will be held in the new clubhouse after the 11.30am and 1pm games.