Throw in the fact that Old Boys fell to its first loss of the season last Saturday against Valley and, going into the business end of the season, there is still plenty for all teams to think about.
Old Boys is still well in front of the pack on 61 points with the improving Valley second on 43 points. The next three teams are in a logjam with Excelsior on 29 points, Kurow on 28 and Maheno on 25. Athletic Marist brings up the rear on 19 points.
So three teams have the chance to claim the final two spots for next week’s semifinals.
Kurow probably has the toughest assignment of the three contenders as it has to play Old Boys, which will be keen to get back on the winning trail.
It has the advantage of hosting Old Boys and is always a tough nut to crack. With the weather expected to be poor, the game may develop into a forward battle. Kurow beat Athletic Marist last week so has form coming into the game.
Old Boys did not play badly last week against Valley but was not helped by the conditions. Its forwards will have to be on the mark tomorrow.
Excelsior hosts Athletic Marist and has the advantage, like Kurow, of having its destiny in its own hands.
Games have become closer over the past few weeks and Excelsior just managed to get past Maheno last week. Athletic Marist has been up and down all season so who knows which side will turn up tomorrow? Maheno, in fifth, is in the uncomfortable position of being on the outside looking in.
It hosts Valley and will need to bag a win and then hope one of the two sides above it falters.
That is possible so Maheno, the defending champion, may be a chance to get into the big dance.The semifinals are scheduled for July 15 and the Citizens Shield final for July 22.
North Otago begins its Heartland Championship campaign late next month.