Have the six teams destined to play finals footy been determined with six rounds to play?
I don’t think so. I’ve completed a couple of scenarios on the TRL website predictor and all I can make out is the top four sides are all going to make the finals, but what position is beyond me.
I also am unsure of who will take the remaining two finals spots.
All I can be sure of is this stellar season continues with three key games this weekend: Warwick v Souths, Gatton v Dalby and Wattles v Pittsworth.
ROUND 13 FIXTURES
Goondiwindi Boars v Highfields Eagles
6.30pm Saturday, July 1
Gilberts Park Goondiwindi
The Eagles will need to be on their guard when they travel to Gunsynd territory.
They have been tampering with their side but I still expect them to win given everyone is in finals mode.
The Boars still have plenty to play for, especially for their supporters and volunteers, not to mention themselves.
Watch for young Stewart Lowe to continue his impressive season for the home side.
Highfields captain Nick Bainbridge should be back and with him the side, it looks ominous for the Boars.
Warwick Cowboys v Southern Suburbs Tigers
6.30pm Saturday, July 1
Father Ranger Oval Warwick
These two teams still need to lift their game if they are to be a force.
Whilst Souths won last week, their completion rate in the first half was poor.
I think they realised they should have played Dwayne Duncan at halfback for the whole season as he was tremendous.
Their second half was better, but playing away in Warwick will be a different story.
The Cowboys were frustrating to watch last Saturday night as they just missed opportunities when delivered to them with simple mistakes.
Mick Bloomfield played well but you could see his frustration.
I know they can play better than that and they know they can play better.
Irrespective, this should be a whale of a game given what is at stake.
All week, I have changed my tip from team to team, but I’m settling on the home side to get home … just!
Gatton Hawks v Dalby Diehards
6.30pm Saturday, July 1
Cahill Park Sporting Complex Gatton
This is the Match of the Round in my books.
The Hawks will need to be at their best if they are to trouble the competition leaders and what a time it is to meet Dalby.
They are coming off the bye and will be smarting after their Madsen Rasmussen loss two weeks ago.
Gatton are always good on a Saturday night at home.
They have the cattle and Jackwitz and Woolacott are forming a good partnership.
If they can cut out the mistakes and stick to the plan, they are a chance, but have only beaten one of the top six sides (Highfields).
We have been waiting and waiting and waiting for them to show what they are capable of and it’s their time to stand up, particularly if they want to still be playing footy come September.
Dalby are starting to get a few injuries but they have the cattle to cover.
Eli Wickham has been wonderful with his versatility and the experienced imports have certainly influenced the local players to perform.
They are strong right across the park but are a chance of losing the top spot if they drop a couple of games.
Regardless, I’m still tipping the Diehards to get the win.
The Obee and Cookie Call will be live from 5.30pm.
Wattles Warriors v Pittsworth Danes
Hutchies Match of the Round
2.30pm Sunday, July 2
Platz Oval Clifton
There is no doubt Matt Duggan is one of Queensland’s best grassroots players and his return will be welcomed at Platz Oval at the weekend.
I got a good look at Wattles last round and they were their own worst enemy mainly due to straying away from their plan. Even if they do stick to the plan this week, I just can’t see them troubling the Danes.
Pittsworth were excellent last week against Warwick and just click as a team and play for each other.
They may be without Liam Jocumsen and Cameron Millar and this may affect them, but they will be confident and have no fear as they want one of the top two spots.
It will be close but the Danes should win.
The Obee and Cookie Call will be live from 1.30pm.
Brothers Leprechauns v Valleys Roosters
2.30pm Sunday, July 2
Glenholme Park Toowoomba
In days gone past, these two would attract plenty of interest and I think Brothers will lift for this local derby.
Valleys seem to have good depth and showed that last round, but it is their class players like Dylan Chown and Balay Viane that seem to have no fear.
Valleys to cruise home in this one.
Follow all the Round 13 action on the Toowoomba Rugby League website.
