Green Island
v
University
Miller Park
Head to head: University won 46-22 at home.
The oil: Green Island have been consistently good and have set the benchmark with 10 wins from 12 games. They have the third best defence in the competition, a hard-working pack and some potent runners out wide. University have made a habit of losing the tight games but they impressed in their last outing and shape as dangerous opponents.
Key players: University halfback Bradley Campbell has been sharp, lock Ale Aho is a beast and Aaron Withy is a quality loose forward with a big work rate. Green Island will lean on Highlanders backup fullback Finn Hurley to create play and loosies Amos Roddick and Ronan Dynes to clean up and hit the ruck. Sam Nemec-Vial has been potent out wide.
Prediction: You would have said Green Island a few weeks ago but University have hit some sparkling form just in time for the playoffs. Plus, Green Island get a second life if they lose, so perhaps they will not be as hungry. University by 10.
Southern
v
Zingari-Richmond
Bathgate Park
Head to head: Southern cruised to a 50-7 win at Bathgate Park.
The oil: Zingari-Richmond got out of the blocks quickly but they had a helpful draw. The second round proved tougher but they still possess a monster pack and will try to use that as leverage to make it into the semis. Southern looked a different team with Jack Leslie back at the helm and they boast the most potent attack in the competition. They have scored just under 42 points per game.
Key players: Leslie got Southern’s exciting backline going last weekend and experienced fullback Mackenzie Palmer is another major attacking threat. Openside flanker Harry Taylor is never far from the ball. The Colours will hit the ball up through veteran No8 Mika Mafi and robust loosie Tofatuimoana Solia.
Prediction: This one shapes as the easiest to pick. A comfortable win to Southern.
Dunedin
v
Kaikorai
Kettle Park
Head to head: Dunedin won 23-3 at Bishopscourt and 23-10 at Kettle Park.
The oil: Dunedin were up and down until they settled on their main group and have finished the round robin strongly. They have a quality pack and base their game around the set pieces. Kaikorai are at their best when they give the ball some air but they have come unstuck against some of the more structured teams.
Key players: Towering Dunedin lock Reuben Palmer gets a good write-up most weeks and fullback Joshua Augustine has gas and an eye a gap. Loosie Hame Toma is never far from a ruck and carries the ball forward a lot. Kaikorai flanker Lucas Casey is bound for higher honours and Ben Miller’s kicking game is critical for the Demons.
Prediction: Dunedin have the muscle to win this one.
■The games start at the earlier time of 2pm this week. And don’t forget, the highest ranked loser will join the three winners in the semifinals.
