Gordon defeated Norths in a brutal local derby played in horrible conditions at North Sydney Oval, while Warringah, Western Sydney, Randwick, Manly and Easts all claimed wins in round 11.
Here are a few things we picked up over the weekend.
Despite winning seven of their last eight matches, Gordon were still flying a little under the radar heading into Saturday’s local derby against Norths.
But a gutsy, gritty win in the wet proved the Stags have what it takes to match it with the competition heavyweights.
They face Manly, Randwick and Easts in the coming weeks and could secure a finals berth with a few back to back wins against rival sides.
Compared to recent years, Norths just haven’t got going through this regular season and have now won just one of their last six matches.
Last year’s grand finalists have enough class to beat anyone in the competition and they’ve got a favourable run towards the finals.
But the Shoremen’s inability to close out tight games in recent weeks is a bit of a concern.
Western Sydney ended a four match losing streak with a crucial 30-25 win over Sydney Uni on Saturday.
The Two Blues are now seventh, five competition points behind Norths and are going to have to beat a handful of teams above them on the ladder in the coming weeks to book a spot in the playoffs.
But it’s too early to rule Western Sydney out. Their ceiling is high and their best rugby is almost unstoppable.
The Woodies had won three straight matches heading in to Saturday’s clash at home against Randwick but didn’t really fire a shot against the defending premiers.
Eastwood dearly missed flanker Harry Turner, who played from the bench, and outside back James McGregor, away with the Aussie 7s.
They must win against West Harbour and Hunter in the coming weeks before they start a tough run towards the finals.
Easts host Randwick in the match of the round on Saturday. The Beasties have won their last five matches but have done so without producing a really impressive performance.
They’ll need to go to a new level against the defending premiers on Saturday who have looked a little more ruthless in recent weeks compared to earlier in the season.
