Sutherland will enter the Christmas break second on the table after a Jamie Brown century helped them to a tense 19-run win over Penrith on Saturday.
Brown made 101 from 113 balls as he hit 12 fours and a six to help Sutherland to 7-286 in their round eight one-day match at Glenn McGrath Oval.
Chris Williams also made 91 as the pair combined for a 180-run second wicket partnership before the Sutherland captain was bowled by Brent Williams.
In reply, an excellent all round bowling and fielding performance from Sutherland kept the visitors at bay. Tom Pinson took two wickets while Jake Wilson, Daniel Fallins, Tom Doyle and Daniel Rixon all picked up one each, with Brown and Doyle also affecting run outs to restrict Penrith to 8-267.
The win saw Sutherland jump to second on the first grade table behind only Campbelltown-Camden. Sutherland return to action on January 6 when they travel to play North Sydney.
Meanwhile, St George have slipped to a bonus point defeat to Parramatta to lose ground with the top six.
Saints were bundled out for 132 at Old Kings Oval on Saturday, with captain Trent Copeland top scoring with 52.
In reply, early wickets to Copeland and Mitchell Gray gave St George hope as Parramatta slumped to 2-21. But a 109-run stand between Tim Ward (54) and Will Affleck (59 not out) saw the hosts cruise home to win by seven wickets inside 28 overs.
St George are on the road after the Christmas break when they take on Sydney University.
