Highfields: 11 wins, 1 losses – 44 points
To Play: BYE, Coolaroo (H), Warwick (A), Lockyer Valley (A)
The Highfields squad is a perfect example of a champion team being stronger than a team of champions. That’s not to say there aren’t talented players in the squad, but the depth is the real key. Many of these players were part of the clubs first ever grand final side in 2011 and they will be hungry to go one better this year. The only issue may be fatigue starting to catch up with the team as the Lions & Darling Downs Crows both move into finals.
Prediction: 1st
Dalby: 10 wins, 2 losses – 40 points
To Play: Lockyer Valley (H), BYE, University (H), Coolaroo (A)
Dalby’s strength of junior players continues with another Swans side set to go deep into finals. The Round 18 clash against Coolaroo will likely be a match which decides second position, although ultimately they will be testing themselves against each other for the Qualifying Final the following week.
Prediction: 3rd
Coolaroo: 10 wins, 1 losses – 40 points
To Play: Warwick (N), Highfields (A), South Toowoomba (H), Dalby (H)
With a game in hand, Coolaroo will be looking to take top spot and a week off in Week 1 of the finals. To do that, they will require 4 wins against sides around them on the ladder. Brock Aston & BJ Shelton are crucial to the team’s success and if one of them was to go down with an injury, they would lose a lot of size and skill across the ground.
Prediction: 2nd
South Toowoomba: 7 wins, 4 losses – 28 points
To Play: Goondiwindi (H), Toowoomba East (H), Coolaroo (A), University (H)
The Bombers appear to be off the pace of the top 3 sides and this is highlighted with the scoreboard ticking over considerably slower. Despite that, they should lock up a spot in September action. Like the Dalby v Coolaroo match, Round 18 could provide a precursor to the Elimination Final against University. The two sides had their previous clash rained out and will be keen to see what each one offers.
Prediction: 4th
University: 6 wins, 6 losses – 24 points
To Play: BYE, Goondiwindi (H), Dalby (A), South Toowoomba (A)
The Cougars face a tough run home, facing two sides they lost to in the first round of fixtures, plus South Toowoomba who they have not yet played. They will need to win 1 match to have a chance of finals action. A fast start against the Hawks will be key as they try to catch players off guard after their long journey into town.
Prediction: 5th
Toowoomba East: 5 wins, 7 losses – 20 points
To Play: BYE, South Toowoomba (A), Lockyer Valley (H), Warwick (A)
The boys in green and yellow are battling the Cougars for 5th spot. With a softer run home than the Cougars, they could sneak into 5th spot with a couple of late season wins. They will likely require 2 wins to have a chance at finals, with a 3rd almost virtually giving them a post-season match. Many of the Stingers are not experienced with tough matches, meaning just making a final will be hugely beneficial to their development.
Prediction: 6th
Last Modified on 19/08/2013 09:52
