Eketahuna displayed some good form in a narrow loss to Greytown two weeks ago.
On that occasion the Eke forwards were their usual combative self, and the backs displayed plenty of endeavour in a high-scoring encounter.
Gladstone have been a mixed bag, beating competition leaders Carterton in a try-fest one week, then struggling to put away cellar dwellers Martinborough in a tryless match the following week.
One thing for sure is that Gladstone coach Steve Thompson knows how to get his team up for vital matches at this time of the season.
The first round match went the way of Eketahuna 12-10.
Prediction: Another close fought battle with Eketahuna to win narrowly at home.
Carterton can seal top qualifier and a home semi-final with victory over Marist at Memorial Park.
Marist come into the match full of confidence after some recent impressive wins, whereas Carterton have stumbled somewhat losing two of their last three matches.
On top of that Marist have the confidence of already beating Carterton this season, in a 23-20 thriller in May.
Marist have been the steady improvers. Their forward pack, especially in the set piece, has been boosted with the arrival of ex-professional player Stan Wright at prop, and with lock-cum-loose forward James Goodger and an in-form loose form trio hitting their straps they're proving more than a match for most opponents.
Marist can also boast the most lethal backline in the competition.
Malatai Malatai is back to his elusive best at fullback, powerful second-five Mickey Te Whare invariably breaks the advantage line, and speedy wingers Soli Malatai and Leo Eneliko are classy finishers.
Injuries to key Carterton backs Cory McFadzean and Andy Humberstone have tested the depth of the competition front-runners. Whether they will be back for tomorrow's match is doubtful.
The key to a Carterton victory may rest with their no-nonsense forward pack led by the McFadzean brothers Johnnie and Lachie.
Prediction: Marist to win a high scoring encounter.
Greytown can go a long way to securing a home semi-final with a bonus point win over East Coast.
The Southerners know how to win at this time of the season and their never-say-die attitude has been evident in last minute victories over Carterton and Eketahuna.
East Coast have been competitive in most games, without getting the positive results
Prediction: Greytown to win with a bonus point
Martinborough and Pioneer are playing for pride in Martinborough.
The home team have had a late season revival, with wins over Eketahuna and Greytown, only to lose those points in the protest room.
While Pioneer tend to run in fits and starts, looking unbeatable for part of the game and then mistake-ridden for other parts.
Prediction: Martinborough to continue their late season resurgence with a narrow win.
