THREE prominent sporting teams from our region play critical games this weekend in their respective codes that will shape their ambitions.
In football, Rockdale City Suns meet Sydney Olympic in the elimination semi-final in the NSW Men's 1 competition at Lambert Park. It's a 6pm kick-off.
Even if it pours, there won't be a problem with playing the game.
The Lambert Park synthetic surface is virtually waterproof.
"It won't matter if it rains, the game will go ahead, Rockdale City Suns president Dennis Loether said.
The Suns finished the premiership rounds fifth.
Last year they made the grand final under Branko Culina's coaching in the Football NSW competition.
"It's been a tight competition again this season," Loether said.
The Suns are captained by Askin Oygur. Overall, they are a fairly young team with a terrific will to win. Veteran Paul Reid provides the stability with his experience and guidance. Young gun striker Nick Taneski and midfielder Idriss El Hafiane have also been genuine contributors this season.
"The boys play as a team and for each other," Loether said.
In the NRL, the Sharks tackle Canberra at 2pm on Sunday at Remondis Stadium, Woolooware.
There is a lot at stake. Both teams are on the same points, (14).
A win for the Sharks will see them leap ahead of the Raiders and perhaps avoid the dreaded wooden spoon.
There are three rounds left and the Sharks' supporters are expected to turnout in big numbers for the clash.
St George Illawarra Dragons tackle the Gold Coast Titans at 3pm on Sunday at Kogarah Jubilee Oval.
The Dragons are 11th (24 points) and need to win their final three games and hope for higher-placed teams to lose a few to sneak into the top eight.
For the Suns, Sharks and Dragons, their destiny is in their own hands.
Horne with Wallabies
ROB Horne, of Oatley, has retained his place on the wing for the Wallabies when they tackle the All Blacks on Saturday at Eden Park in New Zealand. Horne played in the Wallabies against the All Blacks in the opening Bledisloe Cup Test which was drawn 12-12 at ANZ Stadium last Saturday. Because of his Wallaby commitments, Horne couldn't play in the Southern Districts' first grade Shute Shield grand final which the team lost 33-13 against Eastwood at Concord Oval last Saturday. The rugby union winger has enjoyed a terrific season, as a member of the winning NSW Waratahs Super 15 team. The Southern Districts outside back and his Rebels teammate Kane Douglas were top contributors for the Waratahs team right through the Super 15 season.