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So, to distract ourselves from the anger, angst and despair that is the Super Rugby competition of today, perhaps we can give some analysis to the Metropolitan competition which is set to resume this coming weekend.
Westieman was right in his recent observation that the local comp. was already sorting out the wheat from the chaff after only three rounds.
I fear this will be accentuated even more after the next round.
COTTESLOE v ASSOCIATES
Cottesloe have not endeared themselves to the other clubs by their arrogant, rapacious and cynical poaching of the Rockingham colts, and their inexplicable acquisition of Peter Grant, a Force player who had been destined for Wanneroo, where he was sorely needed. It must be a lesson for other clubs similarly minded, and a source of black satisfaction to others, that the whole colts plot ended as a fiasco, unfortunately also destroying Rockingham's season, and that Grant was not the great hope that Cott expected.
Cott are coming off a huge defeat at the hands of Wests, and Associates had a creditable draw against the Nedlands powerhouse. Associates are fielding an extraordinary array of young, fit, raw talent, courtesy of the Force Academy, and they will surely see Cott off. Associates by 25 points.
KALAMUNDA v NEDLANDS
Kala, like Palmyra, have had a relatively soft draw so far, but will be brought to a shuddering halt by Nedlands.
Neddies traditionally don't get it all together until after the first few games, and this week they are due to break out. They will have to, to keep within reasonable reach of the teams currently higher on the ladder. Nedlands by 35 points.
PERTH v PALMYRA
Perth shouldn't be underestimated, and you do so at your own peril, both because they always fight it out to the finish, and because the JT Taylor Cup is at stake in this fixture. Having seen both teams play this season, I have to give it to Palmyra because of their greater depth in the higher grades, but also on the results so far. Palmyra by 30 points.
WANNEROO v JOONDALUP
My heart says the Dogs, but my head says Joondalup. Wanneroo will find it hard to regroup after their last encounter with Palmyra, and they will need to find some structure in their game. Joondalup have been impressive in their form against good opposition. Brothers by 35 points.
WESTS v UWA
On present indications this should be a runaway win to Wests, by far the best outfit in the competition. Not even Mitch Hardy could save Uni this time. Wests by 50 plus points.