Of course, there are all manner of hurdles that get in the way - least of all COVID-19 - and most often people are understanding.

But when NRL Regional Taskforce chair Dugald Saunders, complete with all-star supporting cast of Peter V'Landys and John Barilaro, said more NRL games would be played outside the big cities there could have been a moment of cynicism. The "heard it all before" refrain was long and loud.

But alas, Dubbo - come on down!

For the next two years the South Sydney Rabbitohs will bring a big league game to downtown Dubbo.

Given the impact of Dubbo products on the game right now, it's only a fair thing. Penrith stars Isaah Yeo and Matt Burton hail from the city, not to mention Cronulla Sharks great David Peachey and the likes of Les Davidson, Don Parish, Dean Pay and Andrew Ryan.

Give them a few years and that one match next season might just be the inspiration for another generation of potential top footy players. The NRL circle of life will be complete.

With Bathurst regularly playing host to the Penrith Panthers, Mudgee the new home of the annual Charity Shield pre-season game as well as Tamworth's involvement with the New Zealand Warriors in their time of need, the regions are playing their part. Nice to see the partnership isn't all one-way.

But, more immediately, will the traffic be all one-way in this weekend's games? Unlikely.

As intriguing as any on-field match-up will be the four coaches' roles. The chance of Roosters' thinker Trent Robinson not having the Chooks primed for another swipe at Ricky Stuarts' men is non-existent.

It's bound to be a cracker. But, really, a grand final repeat should be, after all.

* This edition of Tackle Count was written by Janine Graham.

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