The final matches of the first round of fixtures in the TRL premiership promises plenty of intrigue, with three sides in contention to partner the Wattles Warriors in the prestigious mid-season trophy the Madsen-Rasmussen Cup.
The Warriors maintained their unbeaten run with a 14-6 victory over country cousins the Pittsworth Danes last weekend.
This win sealed their spot in the final. The three sides capable of making the final are Gatton, Souths and Highfields.
The Gatton Hawks are favoured to make the final but take on Highfields Eagles with the winner a possibility of qualifying. If the Hawks win they go straight in as they sit two points clear of Souths and Highfields however if Highfields win and Souths lose to Pittsworth, then points differential will decide which of the two sides would go through.
The final possibility is if Highfields win by a narrow margin and Souths defeat Pittsworth it would mean more than likely Souths would qualify by having the best point differential of the three clubs at present.
My prediction is it will be a Gatton vs. Wattles final with Wattles keen to take on the reigning premiers and redeem themselves after exiting the 2013 final series at the hands of the Hawks. The Warriors have been the most consistent team to date and deserve their spot.
In other fixtures last weekend, Valleys returned to the winners circle defeating Oakey 34-18 on Saturday night at home, much to the relief of the supporters and staff of the Roosters. The Gatton Hawks clobbered Brothers 68-4. Warwick upset Dalby with a comprehensive 42-16 win. The final game probably sealed Souths’ hopes of qualifying for the trophy final in a controversial end as Highfields, with a depleted but gallant side, stole the game 40-36 with a last minute try.
This weekend I think Gatton will qualify by beating Highfields. Souths will struggle against Pittsworth at Pittsworth with the home team favoured. Valleys will continue Brothers miserable season. I think Warwick will continue their improved form with a win over Oakey whilst Wattles will be tested but should prevail over Dalby.
