THE fifth minor round in Port Lincoln football is indeed a significant and decisive round this Saturday as to clubs enhancing their chances of making and shaping the final four in September.

The competition is one of the closest in the last decade and it could come down to how the six clubs fare with injury and players being available, and above all the honesty of the players themselves.

This Saturday could again see a change in the competition table.

Waybacks, undefeated on four wins, take on Marble Range, on two wins, at Centenary Oval.

Tasmans, who won their first two games then lost the next two, take on Mallee Park with three wins.

At Poole Oval Bostons, with their first win on the board over Marble Range, take on Lincoln South, who have points on the board after Saturday’s Mallee Park disqualification, and as far as making the finals, this clash is very significant to either club.

Lincoln South must win to stay in the race and Bostons, with win number two, would be in good shape to make the finals.

The clash between Waybacks and Marble Range holds significant importance for both clubs as to a top two finish, more so Marble Range.

Mallee Park will be out for win number four and if they do get the points will also be in good shape for a top two finish, and Tasmans need to win to stay in the race for the important double chance of making the grand final.

Without any doubt round five is the most significant so far this season and all three games could go either way, and that’s all good for the competition.

Football humour

Our great game has always had humour besides the illegal aggression that can be a blight on the game.

No fair dinkum Aussie minds a bit of good humour on or off the field of play.

Last weekend’s football had some of that humour come to the surface.

When the Eagles were up against it in the third quarter last Saturday against the Peckers, the ball was continually in the Eagles’ back half.

In fact there were 32 players forward of the centre square and four players all on their own in the goal square at the scoreboard end, looking on like spectators.

So much so they decided to have a chat about the game and the rules and some decision by the umpires; after all they had little to do for about 18 minutes of the quarter.

They were explaining to each other how one has to get rid of the ball when tackled with handball gestures, and going through all the motions of what and what was not a push in the back.

They were laughing and joking as if they were sitting at the bar in a pub.

The talkfest indeed was very amicable until the ball came down their end, which happened only twice.

Without hesitation the contest was on in earnest between the four players and with the clearance of the ball, the chitchat started again.

In particular one forward said to his opposing defender: “Hey mate under your rules I should have got a free.”

The defender said: “Yeah, you’re right mate, it just ain’t your day we just kicked another one”.

The only thing missing from this 15 minutes of polite chitchat was the tea and scones.

Friday, Saturday or Sunday

Some players do get it wrong and mixed up at times and old Blue is one of those that will plead guilty in the old days and even now.

Two well-known players missed their games they were selected for.

One player eager to play booked his flight in Adelaide for Saturday morning, arrived safe and sound, rested up for a couple of hours and then headed for the ground still eager to get on the paddock.

Imagine the look on the player’s face when told that his team played on Friday night.

The other player just plainly forgot they were playing Friday night.

Who said that footballers know what they’re doing all the time? Don’t worry boys, old Blue turned up in the wrong city one day when I had to change my travel arrangements due to commitments.

So join the club of not knowing where or when you are playing, it is an exclusive club ... welcome aboard.

Around the clubs

Bostons

Congratulations to coach martin Leslie and the league team on their first win for the season.

This Saturday we take on The Eagles at Poole Oval and the club is looking forward to the challenge of winning our second game.

To all Tiger supporters, your support has been magnificent so turn up in big numbers and give our players the Tiger roar and urge the boys on.

Juniors

The junior committee would like to remind all members, and supporters the under 9s and 11s tea night will take place this Saturday, May 31, at 6pm.

This is a great night out for the young Tigers who play their heart out each and every game.

A free schnitzel and drink for the young Tigers, all to be served at 6pm sharp. Normal teas for all are available.

Congratulations to all the Tiger award winners last Saturday.

League: Adam Hywood; reserves: Leroy Taylor; under 17s: Alex North: under 15s: Nick Stevens; under 11s: Rick Puckridge: under 9s: Adam Davies.

Marble Range

Congratulations to Bostons, who were far too good on the day at Wangary.

We still managed a great night celebrating Boof’s 21st with the Vasey family. Thanks to Johnny Baldy and Jay from Random Residents for the music, and spook the roadie.

Thanks also to the Boston and Ranger colts supporters who patronised the egg and bacon breakfast cancer fundraiser, which raised over $1100 - well done.

Congratulations to Jackson Doudle for his first league game, and the last word comes from Grunter: “That’s holding the ball David.”

This year’s Mortlock Cabaret on Saturday, June 7 is at the Grand Tasman Hotel featuring two bands, Hannah’s Shack and The Overheads. Only 15 a ticket pre bought, so get one from the Grand Tasman Hotel, Skinny on 0429 697006 or the social committee before you miss out.

Let’s give it our best shot against Waybacks this Saturday in all grades and see you after the game at Waybacks for a drink before the awards at the bowls club at 6.30pm.

Tasmans

This Saturday night the players’ auction will take place from 8.30pm. Normal teas are available.