Here we are, the last round of the season and what a beauty it looks to be!
On Sunday night, we could be facing mid-week play offs with Gatton v Souths the key match.
Wattles host Valleys in what may just be the biggest indicator of the season - if Valleys win, they will secure the minor premiership.
All in all, what a grand finish to the home and away season.
ROUND 18 FIXTURES
Goondiwindi Boars v Oakey Bears
6.30pm Saturday, August 5
Gilberts Oval Goondiwindi
It was disappointing that the Boars did not fair too well at Dalby last weekend but it was a big ask, however, the last game of the season can leave a nice taste for the off season.
You would think Goondiwindi will be looking at this game to take the two points and win their final home game of the season.
I know a few of the Oakey supporters are making a weekend of it, as it’s a trip for the Bears to celebrate the season.
They had a good win last weekend and if they win this game, it will be two in a row which hasn’t been done in a long time.
Goondiwindi are celebrating the Men of League Foundation this weekend and the Obee and Cookie Call are there to celebrate.
Whilst Oakey are favourites, I’m going for the home side to win in what should be a huge home ground advantage for the Boars.
The Obee and Cookie Call will be live from 5.30pm.
Brothers Leprechauns v Dalby Diehards
6.30pm Saturday, August 5
Glenhome Park Toowoomba
Even though it’s been a disappointing season, Brothers have unearthed some good young players this season. Players like Sam Betros and Tom Ramsay are performing well.
They nearly snatched the win last week, but Dalby are a different kettle of fish.
I’m expecting a big score from Dalby as they prepare for their finals campaign.
The Diehards are in need of consistent footy at the moment and these last two games are perfect to sort it out before they play Valleys in two weeks.
Warwick Cowboys v Highfields Eagles
2.30pm Sunday, August 6
Father Ranger Oval Warwick
My spies tell me the Cowboys were up against it last weekend.
They had everything to play for and were trounced by a better side.
They are a chance to play finals footy and with a home crowd, good weather and big forward, pack, they should be a chance.
Highfields on the other hand got a huge wakeup call last weekend.
There is no hiding in this competition and you must play from the first ruck.
Highfields are still favourites in this game and I think they will bounce back.
Gatton Hawks v Southern Suburbs Tigers
2.30pm Sunday, August 6
Cahill Park Sporting Complex Gatton
Sometimes I feel this competition is like a Forrest Gump movie - you just don’t know what you’re going to get.
When clubs know there is a finals berth on the line, funny things happen and I think the game will be a beauty.
Gatton went back to those lapses that hurt them all season last weekend, especially in defence.
Their goal line defence was terrible, but on their day, they can beat anyone.
They will be without Shannon Hicks which is a huge loss, however, Francis Han is on fire at the moment and should help his side bring home the bacon in front of a huge home crowd.
I’m tipping the Hawks to win.
For the match, Gatton will be wearing NRL jerseys of their favourite teams which will be auctioned after the game with proceeds donated to the family of Brett Forte, a police officer who lost his life whilst on duty in Gatton.
Wattles Warriors v Valleys Roosters
Hutchies Match of the Round
2.30pm Sunday, August 6
Platz Oval Clifton
This is a much-anticipated clash with both teams in top form.
The Wattles’ timing couldn’t be better with Dale Perkins returning to the top grade last weekend.
It had been a while since he had played but it was like he had never left.
The Wattles’ bench was excellent, something Valleys also pride themselves on.
There are battles all over the park, whether it be in the halves, at fullback or up front with the forward pack.
The key battle I think is off the park though as whichever team sticks to their plan will win the game.
Completion rate is the key at the moment, but for me it is defence as both teams know how to find the line.
It’s a danger game for both sides, especially Wattles.
This will be a brutal game and I think both sides may be flat after it.
Valleys last lost a match in Round 9, whereas Wattles last lost in Round 12, which means the Roosters have had more time to be the polished outfit they are.
That’s the only reason I can see that splits the sides, so I’m tipping Valleys in what may just be the game of the season.
The Obee and Cookie Call will be live from 1.30pm.
Follow all the Round 18 action on the Toowoomba Rugby League website.
