St Clair Saints v Otago B52s
The Saints’ march towards top qualifiers looks set to continue as they host the B52s, and while they must start favourites, the match between Jacob Bellamy and Will McLauchlan looks by far the best of the round.
The B52s are missing Andrew Hobbs, who is away on Otago masters duty in Oamaru against Aorangi, while Saints captain Scott Mitchell dons the colours for the first time this season.
This could be easy pickings for the Saints but if the B52s can snag one or two early on then the Bellamy-McLauchlan game will have plenty riding on it. Saints to win.
Taieri Lakes v Island Park
Both sides are officially on a losing run. Taieri are fast falling out of contention for the finals and this is a game they need to win. They have a decent record against Island Park at home but the visitors arguably look a touch stronger on paper.
Mark Andrews returns for Taieri Lakes to face Michael Minty — the pair have a habit of finding each other in the order in what looks a crucial match for Taieri at No 6 — while Island Park have no changes.
The Park side played solidly last week at home and their top four in particular could get them home. Park in a close one.
Chisholm Links v Bombers
The Bomber "Broncos" — it seems like forever since they have played outside Brisbane, er, Balmacewen — hit the road to face Chisholm Links. The Links will feel this is one they can win with the Bombers still missing a couple of heavy hitters and match-ups to suit.
Mike Weastell and John McIntee form a strong tail while Kyle Geary plays his first game of the season against Tony Brown, and Kai Koni lands the hot seat at No 1 against the ever-solid Luke Murdoch, a game the Bombers will likely need.
The Links look great for at least a playoff. Can they win it there? Maybe outright instead.
