Singleton Strikers NewFM youth teams had the pleasure on Saturday of playing on the synthetic at the Federation's Regional Football facility at Speers Point.
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The two older teams recorded hard fought victories while the younger ones were beaten by their high flying opponents from South Cardiff.
The senior sides, missing even more players than has been the case of late were well beaten in all three games at South Cardiff's home on Sunday. The only other team in action were the Storm who beat Greta/Branxton by the only goal at Branxton on Friday evening.
The 13s, probably playing their first game on a synthetic pitch were beaten by three goals and this was less than half the deficit of the first round, emphasising the dramatic improvement as the season has gone on.
The 14s were without several influential players and found the competition leaders far too strong going down seven goals to one.
The 15s, whose opponents are still in the hunt for a semi-final spot, shocked South Cardiff with a three one victory.
All three goals were scored by Josh Isle thanks to some great support work, with the young Strikers taking their chances better than the home side.
The 17s again left it to the last minute to grab all three points.
Within 20 minutes, despite the strong blustery conditions Elijah Smith had the Strikers two nil up.
The home side were awarded a penalty, described by some a dubious, late in the first half and went into the break a goal down.
With play flowing from end to end South Cardiff grabbed an equaliser before Smith scored his third (the second Strikers hat-trick of the day) within a few seconds of the final whistle.
The win moves them into the semi-final places BUT the three of the teams fighting for those places have played fewer games.
This weekend sees games at Howe Park on all three days. On Friday evening E Grade Over35s take on unbeaten Tenambit at 7pm.
Kahibah's youth teams visit on Saturday, with the visitors being one on those teams vying with the Strikers for a 17s semi spot, that games kicks off at 2.30.
Action in the 13s kicks off at 10am.
On Sunday the senior sides also play Kahibah and it is hoped that the fighting Strikers spirit will return after the disappointing display of last weekend.
The only team on the road will be the Storm with the ladies taking on bottom of the table Lochinvar. F Grade Over35s have a bye.
