League: Exciting last round of Fox

It's the last round of the Fox Memorial this weekend and while Mt Albert and Papakura are assured of being in the finals, the remaining places in the top five are still up for grabs.

The Auckland Rugby League's focus on club football and promotion of the Lion Red-sponsored Fox has certainly paid dividends with a significant increase in the quality of football and as a result a rise in support and sponsorship.

The key game of the round, between Northcote and Mangere East at Birkenhead Domain, should be a terrific clash with the winner securing a place in the top five and the loser having to wait for other results. Northcote's form slump means I'm tipping Mangere East to win.

Otahuhu have home advantage against Mt Albert who last week secured the Rukutai Shield as minor premiers. Otahuhu need the two points if they are to have a chance of qualifying.

It's the same situation for Te Atatu, at home against Papakura. A loss will see them out of finals contention.

In the remaining match Marist should be too strong for bottom-placed East Coast Bays at Freyberg Park.