Gordon have become one of the Shute Shield’s big-hitters in the last few seasons under the guidance of one of the brightest young coaches in the country. Meet Lachie Fear.

Manly were one win away from an unbeaten home season when they entertained reigning Premiers Sydney University Football Club at the Village Green at the weekend. And with Wycliff Palu and Phil Waugh locking horns at the breakdown, a classic encounter ensued.

With seventh playing eighth for a spot in the top six, and the return of Lote Tuqiri to a rugby field after a controversially enforced hiatus, the stage was set for an absorbing afternoon up on the peninsula at the weekend as the Warringah Rats hosted the Pirates of West Harbour.