Draws for all LOTTO NRFL competitions are released today, promising an exciting season in store for 2024. 

The competitions, with an over 50 year history, features teams from across the Northern Region Football and WaiBOP Federations, from Northland FC in the north to Taupo AFC in the south. 

NRF has worked with clubs to encourage matches to be scheduled outside traditional match windows and build on the success of a growing Friday night football scene, particularly with quality lights and all-weather pitches at more venues. 

“Clubs are taking the opportunity to try something new, from men’s and women’s double headers, to Friday and Saturday night matches, which is really exciting. With many clubs benefitting from new facilities thanks to FIFA Women’s World Cup 2023, and using them to innovate and bring more of their community into their clubs, it’s a special part of the World Cup legacy,” said NRF Federation Competition Manager Mike Corbett.  

Round one of the LOTTO NRFL Women’s Premiership sees newly promoted Fencibles United host Ellerslie at an upgraded Riverhills Park, Hamilton Wanderers face off against Eastern Suburbs, West Coast Rangers host Western Springs at Fred Taylor Park whilst the Auckland United vs Hibiscus Coast is postponed, with United participating in the OFC Champions League. 

In the LOTTO NRFL Men’s Championship, North Shore United will play host to Metro FC first up, both teams head into the season with new head coaches and will want to bag three points on the opening weekend.

“It’s pleasing to see the continued commitment to player development across the LOTTO NRFL competition system. Clubs at every level of the competitions are working extremely hard to provide best practice environments for their players, along with a dedicated group of club administrators, qualified coaches and referees, our strategic aim of providing quality competitions is steadily becoming realised,” said NRF Operations & Development Manager Korouch Monsef. 

All competitions start the weekend of 23 March, and finish in late August / early September. 

Detailed fixtures and downloadable draws can be found at nrf.org.nz/lottonrfl.

Article added: Friday 23 February 2024

Article added: Friday 23 February 2024