One small step to top

The only way Moama could be denied the title now is if Echuca gains maximum points in all remaining matches, and Moama loses all of their next four.

Early forecasts say the high on Saturday will be 38, just two degrees shy of the cut-off 40. If matches are called off, Moama will still be catchable, but it will only prolong the inevitable.

Moama’s result on Saturday was another comprehensive 16-point win — this time over third-placed Tongala.

The three-rink, 77-52 shot victory was another nail in the coffin of the chasing pack, as Moama was the only side to gain maximum competition points on the day.

Moama Bowling Club sports administrator Zane Mikin-Laurie said although Tongala was a ‘‘good test’’, it makes the club’s run home seem a little easier.

‘‘It was really good to go there and get all three rinks, they were a big test and the result certainly makes it a bit easier in the final few rounds,’’ he said.

‘‘We aim to always be in the finals, so our goal from here would be a top two finish for a double chance in finals. Top is better but a top two would be great, and that goes across all divisions.’’

Next up for Moama is Mathoura away from home, where the away side can claim the crown with a two-rink win.

‘‘They’re always competitive no matter where they are on the ladder,’’ Mikin-Laurie said.

‘‘Their green is tricky and they have a home ground advantage.

‘‘But we have our sides going nice and steady now, so we hope to gain points there too.’’

In other weekend pennant results Echuca claimed a two rinks to one, 87-58 shot win over a struggling Deniliquin RSL side.

Rochester overcame Rich River in an upset victory, two rinks to one, 94-58 in the shot count. And Deniliquin battled hard for a two rinks to one, 67-61 shot, victory over Mathoura.

Round 12 of the CVBD midweek pennant was called off due to extreme heat. Moama remains top of the ladder with three rounds remaining.