Sydney University looking to launch run to Shute Shield semis with win over Eastwood

SYDNEY University coach Chris Malone wants to snatch a top two spot, making Saturday’s grand final rematch with Eastwood a key fixture.

Tom Carter and Tim Davidson Sydney University rugby team mates are lifelong mates who have played Super Rugby and club rugby together for more than 20 years pictured at Sydney University Oval ,Glebe

SYDNEY University coach Chris Malone wants to snatch a top two spot as they bid to defend their title, and will need to defeat Eastwood in the grand final rematch today if they are to begin their climb.

Uni sits fourth behind Manly, Warringah and Eastwood with four games remaining before the Shute Shield finals, but Malone his confident that his side can achieve a top two spot and avoid the third versus fourth showdown in the first week of the playoffs.

Malone guided Uni to an emphatic victory in last year’s decider against brother-in-law John Manenti, coach of Eastwood, and said Saturday’s match at University Oval No.1 is their “the biggest game of the season to date.”

“It’s a huge game and we’re going to treat it that way,” Malone said.

“It is our one game remaining game against top-four opposition, whereas Eastwood have to play Warringah on the last day and the Rats also have to play Manly. We’re not just looking to leapfrog Eastwood into third - second place is achievable for us, no question.”

Eastwood gained revenge on their grand final loss by defeating Uni earlier this season.

“They beat us earlier in the season and last time we played them at University Oval, they beat us too,” Malone said.

“Our preparation has to be just right. They have a settled side with some core players that hold them together and very dangerous electric backs. We have to make sure that every individual fulfils his role and works hard to get the result.”

In other round 15 games: Gordon host Eastern Suburbs at Chatswood Oval, Manly host Randwick at Manly Oval, Northern Suburbs host Penrith at North Sydney Oval, Warringah host Southern Districts at Pittwater Rugby Park, and West Harbour host Parramatta at Concord Oval.

Originally published as Sydney University looking to launch run to Shute Shield semis with win over Eastwood