THERE may still be three rounds of the Group 7 season remaining, but it could all come down to this weekend for the Berry Magpies and the Jamberoo Superoos.
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Jamberoo currently hold fifth spot and are one point in front of the Magpies, who are in sixth.
The Superoos would go a long way to securing their place in the finals if they win, but Berry coach Nathan Benney insists his side is not done yet.
The Magpies have been dealt some bad cards in recent weeks, having to play the top three sides away from home.
It has taken its toll on the field, with three consecutive heavy losses and it has taken its toll on the Magpies players, with their injured list growing every week.
They have been without arguably their three best players in Blake Dryden, Blaine Rozs and Benney himself and unfortunately for the Magpies, the injury crisis is only getting worse.
Halfback Joe Rogers is the latest on the list of wounded troops, while veteran front rower Nick Schilko is also unavailable for this weekend’s clash.
Benney admitted it is do or die for his side this weekend and knows this game will have a huge impact on the final five.
“Jamberoo overtook us last week, so if we lose, they go three points ahead and that makes it near impossible for us to make it,” he said.
“We really need to win all of our last three games, but this one is definitely the most important,” he added.
If they are able to win their three remaining games, it would see the Magpies finish in the top five, regardless of other results.
While doing that is easier said than done, Benney is happy they are still in a position to control their own destiny.
“I think it’s great that we get to play Jamberoo; both sides know exactly how important this game is,” Benney said.
“I think it will be a great game, but it will come down to who wants it more.
“Although we got flogged last week, there was still some positives from the Shellharbour game, even if the scoreboard doesn’t suggest it.
“If we play smart and actually have a good go at it, then I see no reason why we can’t win.”
Benney knows they will feel the pressure against the Superoos and expects there will be plenty of nerves, but is hoping his side can rise to the occasion.
“Everyone knows how important it is, so if that’s not extra motivation, I’ll be very surprised,” he said.
“I do feel a little bit nervous, but more than anything I’m frustrated that I’ll have to be standing there on the sideline.
“But we’re back at home, which is awesome, so hopefully we can get a big crowd there to support us.
“The last three weeks have been poor and I know the boys will be looking to make up for those losses in front of our home crowd.”