A 32-30 win to Dapto over Wests and De La Salle’s come-from-behind 27-26 win over Thirroul have put a cat amongst the pigeons in the race to the Mojo Homes Illawarra Cup finals.
With their third victory in a row, the Canaries have closed the gap on the fourth-placed Butchers, now just one win outside the top four. The visitors also spoiled the party for the Parrish Park faithful, there to celebrate Mitch Porter’s 100th first-grade game for the club.
As we approach the business end of the season, Collegians, who accounted for last-placed Corrimal Cougars 34-26 on Saturday, are the favourites for the minor premiership holding a three-point lead over Wests and De La with four rounds remaining.
However, their next four opponents are fighting for the three remaining finals berths starting with the improving Dapto this week.
Leading 22-4 at halftime, Dapto survived a late scare, with the Devils bridging the gap to four before tries to the ever-present Pita Godinet (pictured) and Luke Penny sealed their win.
Thirroul butcher half-time lead
Thirroul will be ruing the lost opportunity to secure their tenure in the top four, leading 26-4 at the break before De La Salle marched home for the one-point win, scoring four unanswered tries in the second stanza. Eli Levido kicked the match-winning field goal in the 77th minute.
Collegians were cruising to victory at 34-12 before a late comeback from Corrimal. Cougars winger Jacob Haeata picked up a hat trick before eventually going down 34-26.
Tower gets a double for beloved ‘Burgh
In First Division, Helensburgh returned to the winner’s list with an 18-10 win over Thirroul. Rex Jackson Oval hero Steve ‘Tower’ McCallum crossed for two-tries. Corrimal and Collies scored five tries apiece in their 28-all draw. It continues the Cougars impressive late season run, undefeated since Round 7. Competition leaders Wests beat Dapto 30-4. Every game from here on in will be important, with all six teams still in contention for the finals.
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In Harrigan Shield action, Berkeley remains at the top of the competition table after defeating Windang 48-0, and second-placed Figtree beat Corrimal 46-12. Mt Kembla forfeited to Avondale.
The Eagles host the Crushers in a top-of-the-table clash this Saturday.