Northern United's dynamic full-back Brett Kelly is out injured and experienced prop row forward Djaan Jarrett is out for health reasons as Northern United face the 2019 Premiers Ballina, who have won their first two matches in the 10-week 2020 NRRRL season.

The Seagulls were very impressive in beating Marist Brothers at Crozier Field last Sunday, when the Dirrawongs ran in six tries to record their first win of the season in the rout of Cudgen on their own field.

United's Dallas Waters: 'This is just the start'

A physical contest for Marist Brothers

Northern United's halves Roy Bell and Trevor Holt controlled the match at Cudgen off a fine display from the entire forward pack, who never took a step backwards despite the early loss of Djaan Jarrett who has knocked unconscious in the first set of six tackles. Northern United coach Dallas Water was reluctant to single out any player at Cudgen but said Theo Hippo was outstanding for the second week.

With the competition only 10 matches, Waters knows this is a real test for his newly-formed side but he will have implemented a game plan for the players at training on Clifford Park, Goonellabah, this week.

The Northern United starting XIII to face Ballina at Kingsford Smith Park, Ballina, at 3pm tomorrow is: 1. Allan McKenzie, 2. Ant Skinner, 3. Clarence Kelly, 4. Fred Pitt, 5. Denzel Dangerfield, 6. Trevor Bolt, 7. Roy Bell, 8. Alwyn Roberts, 9. Dennis Smith, 10. Jirra Breckenridge, 11. Joey Gordon, 12. Daniel Taylor, 13. Theo Hippo

NRRRL First Grade Round 3, tomorrow 3pm

Ballina v Northern United, Kingsford Smith Park, Ballina,

Marist Brothers v Byron Bay, Crozier Field, Lismore,

Bilambil v Cudgen, Bilambil East Sports Field,

Mullumbimby v Tweed Coast, Mullumbimby Leagues Club,

Casino v Murwillumbah, Queen Elizabeth Park, Casino