The last round of regular season matches begins tomorrow across the region, but the top four teams - which are already guaranteed to progress - all face each other in a stern test ahead of knockout semi-finals.
Ladder-leader Cobram takes on second-placed Katamatite in what could become a grand final preview, while Deniliquin (third) and Barooga (fourth) will face-off for the right to avoid a clash against the minor-premier in a semi-final.
The Tigers will take that title if they avoid an outright defeat at Katamatite Recreation Reserve, with Adam De Cicco (4-50 match figures and 103), Matteo Allen (86) and Tyron Baden (2-14 and 44) in great form against Tocumwal last round.
The Boosey Creek Tigers had the better of Deniliquin as Sam Dorsey (58 and 3-65) and James Tierney (71, 2-33 and 47) impressed.
For the Rhinos, Brodie Bennett's 102 and four wickets for the match was a shining light as they look to bounce back against the Hawks tomorrow.
“On any day 255 is a massive score to chase, especially when we were down a batsman without Hoges (Andrew Hogan),” Deniliquin coach John Arthur told the Pastoral Times.
“To get within 60 runs with one less batter, particularly one of the premier batsmen of the comp, as well as missing Brad Todd and having Edgey (Dean Edge) out cheaply on day one is still a pretty good effort.
“We honestly thought that while Brodie was in we were within a chance of winning.
“He batted sensationally and watching him bat was like watching a highlight reel.
“We just didn't have the wickets in the shed in the end though.”
Barooga completed an outright victory over Nathalia last round thanks to the likes of Daniel Ellis (142), Matt Jaensch (7-49) and Justin Maley (6-23 in the first innings).
The Purples tackle Cobram-Yarroweyah United from tomorrow in search of a consolation victory to close out their campaign.
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