Local Derby Magnifique

It's still the local derby par excellence - Norths V Manly and it's on again this Sunday at picturesque North Sydney Oval.

Yes the opponent is Manly, that great old foe of the North Shore but this game is also the Bears last remaining match of the season in Premier League and a win will put them in the best position possible to make the top eight and that converted finals appearance. Norths have no injuries to record and are well rested with a bye. Also they still have their last match a 36 point win against Balmain well and truly in their minds.

Manly who are currently 5th on the ladder are in good form having won their last three games including a win over Newtown who are 4th on the ladder.

But Norths V Manly is not the only local derby happening at North Sydney Oval on Sunday. Upper North Shore rivals Berowra and Asquith will battle it out in the 2005 A Grade Grand Final. While Asquith's Jim Beam Cup side will face Cabramatta as the curtain raiser to the Bears V Manly match.

Other trappings on the day include the final appearance this year of the gorgeous Honey Bears as well as raffles and merchandise for sale (including the new highly prized Bears Beanies).

Also on Saturday The Bears Jersey Flegg team take on the central Coast Rip at Mingara Sports Complex at 1:00 p.m.

PHOTO: Red and black blooded players such as John Russell can't wait for the local derby against Manly-Warringah.

Schedule of events 28th August 2005, North Sydney Oval:

12:30 p.m. - Jim Beam Cup Round 22, Asquith V Cabramatta 2:00 p.m. - Premier League Round 24, North Sydney V Manly-Warringah 3:30p.m. - North Sydney A Grade Grand Final, Asquith V Berowra