NRL clubs Gold Coast Titans and the New Zealand Warriors will play a trial match in Lismore in readiness for the 2021 season.

The Titans, coached by Justin Holbrook, may bring new signings David Fifita, Tino Fa'asuamaleaui, Herman Ese'ese and Patrick Herbert to Oakes Oval for the match on Saturday, 27 February.

Nathan Brown is the Warriors' new coach and he will be keen to see new signings Marcelo Montoya, Addin Fonua-Blake, Ben Murdoch-Masila, Euan Aitken and Kane Evans.

Addin Fonua-Blake has joined the Warriors from Manly Sea Eagles. Photo: Twitter

Lismore City Council says bringing the NRL clubs to Oakes Oval is a major coup for the Northern Rivers.

Gold Coast Titans CEO Steve Mitchell said the team loves playing in Lismore and they are excited to test their skills in front of an enthusiastic crowd.

“We can’t wait to get to Lismore to take on the Warriors as we kick start our 2021 campaign in front of Titans members and fans from the Northern Rivers – we see Lismore as the home of our fan base

down there,” Mitchell said.

“The quality of rugby league talent that comes out of Lismore and the surrounding region is unquestionable. We are committed to the area as this is Titans heartland and the Northern Rivers region is one we want to continue to invest in.”

The main game will commence at 5.30pm with matches leading up to the main game including an under 16 and under 18 representative games between Northern Rivers Titans and Central Coast Roosters and a Titans physical disability team exhibition match.

“There will be a full day of football at Oakes Oval and whether you’re a footy fan or experiencing rugby league for the first time, this will be a great spectacle,” continued Mitchell.

“Our team, led by coach Justin Holbrook, are keen to run out onto Oakes Oval and are excited to play on such a quality surface. With the future upgrades planned by Lismore City Council to further

improve the facility, Lismore will fast become a sought-after sporting destination.”

Lismore City Council Manager of Liveable and Active Communities Tony Duffy said he hoped to see many more games being held at Oakes Oval with ongoing refurbishments placing Lismore firmly on

the NRL map.

“We want to secure a regular fixture in Lismore as part of the NRL season – that’s our goal,” said Duffy.

“We have the fans and the facilities to support NRL season games and we are building our relationship with the Gold Coast Titans to help develop Lismore as a home for sport. The $12 million

refurbishment at Oakes and Crozier will make us a premier sporting city.

“In this trial match alone, we hope to have a large crowd of 6000 people and once the refurbishments are complete, we will be able to accommodate up to 10,000 spectators in both

facilities.”

Tickets will be available via www.visitlismore.com.au.