Washout’s impact on race for finals

THE Kookaburra Cup’s top four have tightened their grip on finals spots in a net result of the weekend washout.

Two-time premiers Queens were already safe and now Broadbeach Robina are too, while Helensvale Pacific Pines and Mudgeeraba Nerang can put their place in the playoffs beyond doubt by winning one of their last two matches.

Every Round 20 match was abandoned on Friday meaning all clubs bar Palm Beach Currumbin, who had the bye, received three points for a draw.

While that has not changed standings, it has reduced the opportunity for nearest challengers Burleigh and Southport Labrador to close in.

Burleigh remain within reach of the Hawks and Bushmen but have a bye this weekend, meaning they only have one chance to score points – in a final round home match against Coomera Hope Island.

Southport Labrador meanwhile can only make it through if they win both of their remaining matches, against Runaway Bay and Queens, pick up bonus points and both Burleigh and either Helensvale or Mudgeeraba not win again.

Alberton now cannot avoid the wooden spoon.