IRL race on for top four

THE Ipswich Rugby League resumes tomorrow following the Ipswich Cup with two games that will have a big bearing on the top four.

Leaders Brothers travel to North Ipswich to play the fourth placed Norths Tigers, while third placed Swifts host second placed Goodna.

For Norths, an upset against Brothers will keep them five points clear of fifth placed Fassifern, who should pick up two points at home against strugglers West End.

Swifts have slipped from second to third following consecutive losses but can overtake Goodna with a win.

It will be easier said than done as the Eagles, with former Kiwi internationals David Solomona and Sione Faumuina looking impressive at home in their dark blue jerseys.

If Norths and Swifts can spring upsets there will only be four competition points separating first from fourth.

"The competition is so tight," Swifts coach Lee Addison said.

"Brothers are the only side that are a cut above the rest.

"The rest is down to depth, the footballing gods and how you manage your players."

For Norths to live up to their end of the bargain they will need to overturn a record of just one win over Brothers in the past five years at least.

They proved in the opening round last year they can do it and recent form indicates they're not far off.