Kirisome Auva'a and the Rabbitohs have probably done enough to claim a top-four spot. Photo / Getty Images
It's been the tightest NRL season in years and is expected to go right down to the wire.
Often at this stage of the campaign, the top four is usually set, with a clutch of other teams jostling for the minor placings in the playoffs. Not this year.
The Sea
Eagles and Rabbitohs have probably done enough to secure their places in the top quartet but the other two prized spots - which offer a precious double life - are up for grabs for any of the six teams below them.
The Eels' loss on Friday night was crucial. They host Manly next week and another defeat will all-but kill their finals chances, given their awful points differential. Points for and against will be vital this year, with the Roosters, Cowboys and Warriors having an edge in that area, while the Bulldogs and Storm are currently disadvantaged.
The Warriors should maintain their place in the eight and qualify for the finals for the first time since 2011. Where they finish is anyone's guess. They could place as high as fourth or as low as eighth, with the daunting prospect of a sudden-death match in Sydney, Melbourne or Townsville.
