Waikato Unicol steal march on rivals in Lotto NRFL Southern Conference

By Jack Sharp

Waikato Unicol’s chances of winning the Lotto NRFL Southern Conference got a boost last weekend, even though they didn’t play.

Their game was washed out but their nearest rivals, Cambridge, lost 4-1 at Taupo, a result that still keeps both those clubs in reach of Unicol.

However, Unicol now have a lead of two points and have a game in hand.

This weekend, Unicol should have a routine win at struggling Te Awamutu while their title rivals will have to be careful not to drop points.

Table of Contents

Game of the week

Cambridge’s season is at the crossroads after a 4-1 loss at Taupo last weekend.

Trailing 1-0 at the break, Cambridge were in the game but a red card for player coach Jordan Shaw early in the second half tilted the game in Taupo’s favour.

At the end of the game, Cambridge’s Nathan Claridge copped a red as well, meaning he and Shaw won’t be available for this weekend’s match at Papamoa.

Cambridge should have been able to head to Papamoa confident of a win to stay in touch with leaders Waikato Unicol and Taupo. Now, they can’t afford a slip-up.

Papamoa have been inconsistent this season, picking up useful wins against Te Awamutu, Claudelands Rovers and, last time out, at Ngongotaha Lakes.

But they’ve also flattered to deceive in other games, and they lost their first encounter with Cambridge 3-1.

It depends which Papamoa turns up as to whether Cambridge will be tested.

With plenty at stake, the game should be a cracker.

Player to watch

James Field has been an ever-present between the posts this season, anchoring an efficient Waikato Unicol defence that’s conceded only eight goals.

Field (26) is in his sixth season with Unicol and offers experience within a youthful squad.

He’s chalked up three clean sheets this season, and he can confidently look for his fourth on Saturday when the league leaders play bottom-of-the-table Te Awamutu.

Bold prediction

Claudelands Rovers have had a poor last month, losing three games (including a Chatham Cup loss) and drawing once.

Their last win was four weeks ago, a 7-0 romp against bottom-placed side Te Awamutu.

Before that, you have to go back to April to find a Rovers win in this competition.

I’m tipping Rovers to rediscover their mojo this weekend with a decent win at Otumoetai.

Let’s say 3-1 to Rovers.

Last week I said I wouldn’t be surprised if the Taupo/Cambridge and Ngongotaha Lakes/Claudelands Rovers games were draws. Taupo beat Cambridge 4-1, but I nailed the other result — a 2-2 deadlock.