Exciting battles at pointy end

CAIRNS Hockey Association fixtures recommence this weekend with games in both men’s and women’s competition important as we run into the pointy end of the season.

In the A-grade men’s competition, top-of-the-table Saints take on third-placed Souths in what is building as the match of the round.

A win to Souths would see them get to within two points of the ladder leaders, making the run to finals compelling.

Souths are unquestionably the mid-season improvers with a mix of youth and experience.

The return of Dean Butler, Australian Olympian and gold medal holder has settled the Souths group with a more structured approach evident, and will make the tasks for Saints extremely difficult.

A win to Saints will see them bolt clear at the top of the table and hold first position through to the finals.

Trinity Stingers take on Brothers in the remaining game with both clubs seeking that never-ending dream of consistency. Both teams have the ability to turn it on, playing some of the most exciting hockey when they are up and about.

Brothers need the win to stay in touch of a finals berth, and if other results go their way can leapfrog into third place above Souths.

The A-grade women’s competition is more a battle of first and second, Souths and Saints, and then third and fourth, Brothers and Stingers.

The top-of-the-table clash occurs this weekend with Souths taking on Saints in the match of the round. A victory to Saints would see them get to within two points of Souths however a win to Souths will see them bolt eight points clear, nearly ensuring top spot as finals approach.

The final game sees Brothers and Stingers battle for that vital third spot come finals.