Fight on for last semifinal spot

Round seven of the premier two-day cricket competition will prove vital for a couple of reasons.

Firstly, New Plymouth Marist United (NPMU) and New Plymouth Old Boys (NPOB) sit on top of the table, equal on points. The team that scores the most points this round will take out the coveted top seed going into the finals.

Secondly, Stratford and New Plymouth Boys’ High School (NPBHS) will compete for the fourth and final spot, with Stratford holding a five point advantage going into the round.

Stratford, however, have a tough task as they take on third placed Inglewood and no chance of being caught.

Inglewood, however, will be looking for maximum points to see if they can jump into the top two and get a home semifinal if either NPOB or NPMU slip up.

NPMU take on the improving Francis Douglas Memorial College (FDMC). The college team have been going from strength to strength this season, so it will be an interesting contest.

NPBHS will take on Woodleigh who have struggled not only on the park but also in player numbers.

NPBHS will have a great opportunity to put the pressure on Stratford.

The final game of the round sees NPOB travel to Ha¯wera. With Ha¯wera out of contention, NPOB must put the pressure on to secure points.

The NPMU versus FDMC game will be played today and tomorrow due to the ground being unavailable next weekend while the other three fixtures will play the traditional Saturday-Saturday.

Games are scheduled to start today at 10.30am.