John Fitzgerald

The three undefeated leading teams after five rounds – Trundle, Manildra and Oberon – have pulled away from the pack, with the next three teams – Orange, Blayney and Cargo – all losing in the same round.

Among the round 5 results, Manildra at home had a close call, an 18-16 win over Cargo, and ladder leader Trundle had a big win, 36-12 over Cowra. 

Oberon defeated Blayney 32-18, Molong defeated Eugowra 16-14, Peak Hill were successful 42-16 over Grenfell, and Canowindra had their first win, 20-16, over Orange.

In the next round of matches the game holding most interest is leader Trundle at home to second-placed Manildra, both among the early premiership favourites, and both undefeated.