Four-Way Battle For Fourth Semi Spot

Round 6 Preview Round five of the Jubilee Cup saw a clear mid table logjam develop behind the leading trio of Northern United, Upper Hutt and Petone. While these three appear likely to make the playoffs, a real battle is shaping for the fourth semi-final berth throughout the final fortnight of round-robin play. Three points separate Marist St. Pats, Poneke, Tawa and Avalon, with only Western Suburbs out of the running.

Of the chasers, fourth placed MSP have the toughest finish. With Norths and Upper Hutt still to play, the multiple champions will be desperate to at least collect bonus points to avoid missing the semi-finals two years in succession. They could struggle to penetrate against Norths at Porirua Park this week, but with the accurate boot of first five-eighth Sam Rasch they should come close. Fifth placed Poneke will also want to beat Upper Hutt this week at Maidstone Park. However Poneke have another life in the last round against bottom placed Wests, and could struggle to lift for this after their huge effort to beat MSP last week.

The Club Weekly will be on hand at this week?s other crucial fixture between Avalon and Tawa at Fraser Park. With MSP and Poneke playing the competition spearheads, whoever wins this could play themselves into contention. Both have just two wins from five games so far, with Tawa a point ahead on the table courtesy of an extra bonus point. Tawa?s wins have been against Wests 21-18 in round three and Poneke 21-14 in round four, while centre Finau Hopoi starred in Avalon?s 28-26 round three win over MSP and again last week when they defeated Wests 34-20.

Expect an open, fast paced game between two of the competition?s crowd pleasers. Both these sides have a penchant for entertainment, a feature that is usually brought out when they meet each other. Avalon have also had the better of Tawa in recent times, winning their last two encounters; most recently No. 8 Thomas Waldrom starred in Avalon?s 44-7 romp in round two of this year?s Swindale Shield. The Club Weekly was also present at last year?s corresponding clash at the same venue, where Avalon won 41-25, after they had outscored Tawa four tries to three to lead 26-19 at halftime.

Meanwhile Petone will fancy their chances for maximum points against Wests at Ian Galloway Park. With nothing to play for the Roosters could still prove dangerous though, and will want to end their home season on a high.