THE title charge for two Singleton sporting clubs, the Greyhounds and Roosters, kicks off in earnest this weekend.
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But, unfortunately for both organisations, their play-off matches – in the BHP Billiton Hunter Valley Group 21 Rugby League and Black Diamond AFL Plate respectively – are away from home.
The Greyhounds will boast four hopefuls on the road, with the firsts, reserves and under-18s heading to Olympic Park, Muswellbrook, on Saturday.
Singleton’s women’s league tag side then faces the Ramettes in the minor semi-final at Scone Park, Scone, 24 hours later.
Greyhounds’ publicity officer Marmalade is confident the senior outfit will bounce back against the Rams.
“A six-day turnaround and the loss to Aberdeen might be the quick reset button Singleton requires to refocus on the task now at hand,” he said.
“There’s plenty to play for [tomorrow] with the winner obtaining hosting rights for the Group 21 grand final.
“The combatants have met on three occasions this year with Singleton holding a significant 2-1 advantage.
“In round three, Muswellbrook won 30-22, however the Greyhounds triumphed 20-8 at Olympic Park and again a few weeks later 28-20 at Pirtek Park.
“It should be an absorbing game.
“And, with three Singleton teams (firsts, reserves and under-18s) in major semi-final action, it could be a boon for the Greyhounds if victory follows on the back of capturing the Club Championship at the weekend.”
Marmalade is also expecting a big performance from the women’s league tag squad.
“Their last round victory [over Aberdeen] should give the girls some confidence heading into their sudden-death fixture,” he said.
“The teams have shared the spoils with a win apiece this season.
“Singleton prevailed 16-0 in round eight but lost the corresponding match 26-4 (round 13).
“Hopefully, the girls can keep their season alive with a resolute performance this weekend.”
Meanwhile, the Roosters venture to Adelaide St Oval for an elimination showdown with powerhouse Newcastle City on Sunday.
Black Diamond AFL football operations manager Garry Burkinshaw believes Singleton is a strong chance of reclaiming its crown in 2017.
“The Roosters are the reigning premiers and fresh off two very good wins over Maitland then Gosford,” he said.
“So, they present a huge challenge for the regular finalists [Newcastle City].
“Singleton’s excellent defence has been on show in recent weeks, with their forward line regularly kicking 10-12 goals each game.
“But, City boasts great depth across the grades and will benefit significantly from a series of ‘ins’ in their Black Diamond Cup side.”