Round 19 NSW Super League Preview

Parramatta are certainly not claiming that it is all over, mindful of their experience in recent seasons, but a win against the Tigers at home this Saturday (kick-off 7pm), and no more than a point for St George, will see the title head to Melita Stadium.
It will be an interesting sequence of results, as both the Tigers and the Saints would of course like to see any title claim delayed. Northern Tigers surprised in their loss to Fraser Park last round, but a win here and full points in their catchup fixture against Spirit, could still see the title race go down to the wire.
St George faces an interesting excursion to Pluim Park. The Saints, currently second, are at their equal highest position this season, and look on track to claim their highest finishing placing since their introduction to Super League five years ago. But it will not be easy up at the Coast especially as the relegation dogfight has the potential to draw in more clubs. While it looked to be a two way fight between Fraser Park and Mount Druitt, those just above them, including the Lightning, can?t rest easy.
Fraser Park welcomes Sydney University, also on Saturday. Fraser had a great win at Mills Park last weekend, giving themselves a lifeline in their attempt to avoid relegation. With the departure of Ante Juric during last week, it was a great start for Alex Augusto, taking over the reins again at Fraser. Alex Smith yet again got on the scoresheet and Uni will have to keep an eye on Fraser?s top scorer. University haven?t given up hope of a late charge to the finals, a win here is imperative if they wish to extend their season.
Granville Rage travel to Spirit FC. Both sides expect to finish in the five and one suspects, that won?t happen. It has been a difficult season for the reigning champions who have really only been on the fringes of the five all season. Granville have slipped in recent weeks but gained a point against fellow finals aspirants Bossy last weekend. The Rage have the upper hand in the race for the semis but will need to take something away from Christie Park.
There remain two fixtures to choose from on Sunday. Fourth placed Macarthur Rams meet bottom placed Mount Druitt at Lynwood Park. While on form, the Rams look favourites, don?t diregard the Rangers? ability to surprise. They fought well against St George last Sunday and had quite a few chances but failed to convert. That is something which Macarthur does not have a problem with, only Parramatta having scored more.
Finally, at Ernie Smith Reserve, FC Bossy meets the travelling Dulwich Hill. Paul Carter had his Bossy side return to form not too long ago and their rise to challenge for the finals has been impressive. While their results have now just stuttered a little, expect them to give Dulwich Hill a tough workout as they look to take advantage of any faltering above them in the table. Dully, like Central Coast, won?t want to get sucked in to any relegation dramas over the final month. This will be a close one.
– Peter Rowney