While the four teams in the Merv Scholes Trophy competition have Baywide playoffs on their agenda after the local round concludes next weekend – the Phelan Cup which will be awarded to the winner of the Seeka KI Western BOP second round competition is really warming up.

A couple of months ago, few local rugby followers would have given Rangiuru little chance in the second round title race.

The Te Puke based side copped some big defeats and finished the Seeka KI Western BOP championship, with just two victories on their ledger.

After two rounds of the Phelan Cup, Rangiuru sit astride the standings with Greerton Marist and Papamoa, with two wins including the impressive scalp of Matakana Island.

They have a good opportunity to extend their winning streak on Saturday when they play Rangataua in the early game at Centennial Park in Te Puke.

Joint competition leader Greerton Marist, is another side to make big strides late in the season and could trouble Matakana Island on the Island.

While Matakana went into the second round as joint favourites with Papamoa, they need to despatch the Greerton visitors to remain in contention for the Phelan Cup.

The formbook suggests Papamoa should be too good for Te Puna at Maramatanga Park, however, the home side have posted some solid victories this season.

Judea and Eastern Districts square off at Judea headquarters with the match likely to be a close fought contest.

In the Merv Scholes title chase, Tauranga Sports and Mount Maunganui will engage in a battle of the bridge at the Tauranga Domain, with Katikati hosting Arataki at Moore Park.

Seeka KI Western BOP Draws July 7, 2012 (1pm unless specified)

Merv Scholes Trophy: Tauranga Sports v Mount Maunganui, Tauranga Domain (2.45pm) Katikati v Arataki, Moore Park (2.45pm)

Points Table: Tauranga Sports 4, Mount Maunganui 4, Arataki 1, Katikati 0,

Phelan Cup: Te Puna v Papamoa, Maramatanga Park; Judea v Eastern Districts, Maharaia Winiata Park (2.45pm) Matakana Island v Greerton Marist, Matakana Island; Rangiuru v Rangataua, Centennial Park.

Points Table: Greerton Marist 10, Papamoa 10, Rangiuru 10, Matakana Island 5, Te Puna 4, Rangataua 2, Judea 0, Eastern Districts 0.