There are some interesting match-ups in the southern region competition this weekend.
Both the Speight's Jug and McIntosh Cup are on the line as Clutha hosts Heriot. Clutha had a tidy win against Toko last week but its discipline was an issue. Heriot had a close loss at home to Clutha Valley but showed glimpses of brilliance.
Heriot will need to string two good halves together to have a chance in this clash. Both packs are strong but Clutha may have the edge in the backs.
Clutha Valley hosts Owaka for the Bryan Price Trophy. Clutha Valley muscled past Heriot last weekend. It had a strong first half but then slipped away in the second, allowing the home side back into the contest. Owaka had a strong win over Clinton and the buzz in the team is still strong.
These games have a habit of being tight affairs and there is always plenty of physicality and passion. This will be a tight game and it is hard to call.
Clinton hosts Crescent for the Ian Reid Memorial Trophy. Clinton lost to Owaka last week and is struggling for numbers, as injury and player absence are really hurting the side.
Crescent had a win against Lawrence last week and took plenty of positives from the game. Crescent holds the trophy but the Clinton side will be keen to show that last week's performance was a one-off. Crescent is favoured to take the win.
Lawrence hosts Toko and both sides will want to prove their worth. Both showed they are capable of playing decent rugby and will be confident of getting the result. Lawrence's halves combination of Harry Roe and Joe Andresen is one to watch out for.
Toko fullback Jacky Scott could also be prominent.
Lawrence should take the points if it plays well.
- Francis Parker