And despite desperately clinging on to top spot, Bowral could be leapfrogged by third placed Mittagong with the defending premiers clashing with wooden spooners Blues and Bowral to tough it out against second placed Moss Vale.

Securing a top two finish is vital as it ensures teams a second life in the finals.

This weekend’s round witnessed a nailbiter at Welby where Mittagong needed one run off the final ball to gain an outright win and five invaluable bonus points.

But a razor sharp direct hit from Graeme O’Donnell restricted Mittagong to first innings points.

Man of the match belonged to Phil Farrance who followed up a top class 3/21 with a brilliant knock of 53.

In other matches, Bowral disposed of Wingello and cellar dwellers Exeter resigned a dismal Blues outfit to the wooden spoon after scoring an outright win at Bradman.

And while most agree that any of three teams can claim the crown, Bowral look to have the experience coupled with class that could just get them past the post in front.