The chance to host the major semi-final, and potentially the grand final, is just one aspect of a mouthwatering top-of-the-table clash between Waratahs and Leeton.
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First place on the ladder goes on the line when the two teams met at Leeton No.1 Oval on Saturday.
The two clubs have cleared out from the rest of their rivals so far and are looking for an important edge in the race to the minor premiership and hosting rights in the finals series.
However, it is far from the focus for Waratahs coach Angus Macleod.
“This will determine whether the home final will definitely be in Leeton or whether it is still up in the air,” Macleod said.
“It is a big boost for any team playing finals at home, but it isn’t our main focus.
“Our main focus is still to win.
Waratahs are out to reverse the 40-36 loss in the first round of the season.
The loss to the Phantoms ended the premiers 18-game winning streak.
It remains their only loss for the season, while Leeton are yet to taste defeat.
Despite being disappointed with how they finished off the game against Tumut last week, Macleod is confident.
“I certainly have confidence in the guys to do the job,” he said.
“We were only just shy last time and I think we are a stronger side this Saturday to what we were in the first round.
“We just have to gel as a unit rather than rely on individual brilliance.”
Macleod is looking to take a more cautious approach, knowing Leeton is strong on the counter attack.
He wants to control the game.
“As long as we keep possession we will certainly be in the game,” Macleod said.
Waratahs have made a number of changes from the team who defeated Tumut last week.
Sam Bunny has been one the team’s best this season, but comes out for their biggest test yet.
Bunny is on holidays in Thailand, learning to cook.
However premiership winner Dave Armstrong comes back into first grade for the first time since last year’s grand final win.
Taking time off due to injury and for his wedding, Armstrong played second grade last week and Macleod expects he’ll be a strong replacement.
Hugh Palmer is also into flanker, replacing Charlie Sykes, while James Daley is back from injury.
After bruising his heel, Daley missed the win over the Bulls, but adds plenty of quality to the front row.
Adding some strength to the back line, Matt Shortis has returned from a hamstring injury and comes back onto the wing.
