PLACES in the Central Murray Football Netball League finals series could come down to the final round of matches, with nine teams still in with a chance to make the top five.
The race for the finals can be split into two with four rounds remaining – the battle for the minor premiership, and the fight for fifth spot on the ladder.
The district’s three local sides – the Cohuna Kangas, Kerang and Koondrook/Barham – all have the bye this weekend, with the break coming at the right time for two of the clubs.
The Blues and Raiders hold the top two spots on the ladder, with both sides two wins clear of former competition leaders, Nyah-Nyah West United.
The deficit should reduce to one match tomorrow with the Demons taking on the winless Balranald, leaving the side with the chance to reclaim top spot with a win against Kerang at Riverside Park on August 6.
If Kerang wins the round 16 blockbuster, it needs to at least match Koondrook/Barham’s efforts in the remaining two rounds to claim a fifth successive minor premiership.
The Raiders take on fellow finals aspirants, Tooleybuc/Manangatang at home on August 6, before matches at Lalbert against the Mallee Eagles on August 13 and a final home match against the Cohuna Kangas in round 18.
Kerang will finish its season with a night match against Swan Hill on August 13 and a home game against fourth-placed Woorinen on August 20.
Meanwhile, six sides can still make the finals, with Woorinen, Tooleybuc/Manangatang, Lake Boga, the Mallee Eagles, the Kangas and Swan Hill all within striking distance.
The Kangas and Swans’ finals hopes will diminish this weekend if Woorinen defeats Swan Hill and Tooleybuc/Manangatang defeats Tyntynder.
Tomorrow’s match between Lake Boga and the Eagles will be just as critical, with victories to the Tigers, Saints and Magpies leaving the Eagles 10 points off fifth spot – a margin that cannot be clawed back thanks to the side’s round 16 bye.
