Saturday 23 March

Berkeley vs Unanderra Hearts @ Berkeley Sports Ground

Last season Berkeley defeated Unanderra in both fixtures last season while the Goats also beat the Hearts 2-0 in the Fraternity Club Cup a few weeks back - this continues a trend for Berkeley of beating Unanderra is every meeting since 2016. Unanderra have also only managed to net one goal in the three most recent meetings with the Goats.

Prediction - Berkeley

Bellambi Rosellas vs Warilla Wanderers @ Elizabeth Park

Warilla have lost more than half of their squad from the side that faced Coniston in last year’s grand final and last time this fixture was played, Bellambi defeated Warilla 9-0. Bellambi will hope for a victory on the opening day to get their title push underway.

Bellambi Rosellas

Balgownie Rangers vs University @ Judy Masters Oval

University lost both games to Balgownie last season, conceding seven goals in the process. Balgownie will be looking to replicate last campaign’s start in which they won four from four, including a 2-1 win against their will be opponents on Saturday.

They should feel confident in doing so as University haven’t shown many signs of improved defensive stability in preseason, however, Balgownie were very inconsistent last season, even against sides below them on the table.

Balgownie Rangers

Oak Flats Falcons vs Picton Rangers @ Keith Bond Oval

Oak Flats this season will be looking to make the finals and will need to pick up points against teams like Picton. Oak Flats edged past Picton in preseason with a 3-2 win, this result indicates that Saturday’s match will be a tight affair. Oak Flats should have the quality to win the game.

Oak Flats Falcons

Kiama Quarriers vs Thirroul Thunders @ Barrack Heights Sports Field

Thirroul put six past Kiama in this fixture last season and Kiama’s preseason form indicates that the home side could struggle again. However, Thirroul have shown defensive frailties in preseason conceding on average two goals per game. This is potentially something Kiama could exploit. The contrast in form is enough to indicate a positive result for the Thunder.  

Thirroul Thunder

Sunday 24 March

Shell Cove vs Helensburgh Thistle

Helensburgh did the double over Shell Cove last season and have looked positive from early evidence with the Thistle netting 14 goals in the Fraternity Club Cup. Both Addison Grinham and Cody Cuthbertson have been in fantastic form scoring eight goals between them from four games. This goalscoring form suggests that Helensburgh will pick up three points on Sunday.

Helensburgh Thistle

Preview by Timothy Gibson, on Twitter @Timg123_

File photo by Pedro Garcia