With 76pts, 11 tries and five yellow cards, the second North Shore derby of the season certainly didn’t disappoint, unless you are of a red and black persuasion. It ended with a first victory for Gordon over Northern Suburbs at North Sydney Oval since 2011, 42-34, and a significant shot in the arm to the Highlander’s chances of a first finals appearance since 2009. But having led 21-3, 28-8, 35-15, and 42-22 at different stages of the match, losing three players to the sin bin in quick succession in the closing stages almost cost them a memorable victory. Here’s how it all played out…

It was the look of shock on their faces that told the story. Billed as a grand final rematch and a chance for Warringah to exact revenge for the heavy loss in last season’s title decider, the round three clash between the Rats and Sydney University at Uni Oval No.2 in April, had just finished an incredible 50-0 in favour of the reigning Premiers. 10 weeks later however, and the Rats sit five points clear at the top of the ladder, having won nine in a row and downed the Students in the return fixture at Rat Park last weekend. Now that’s a turnaround worth exploring further…