FRIDAY night footy will shine at Cessnock Sportsground this week when the Goannas host Lakes in one of Newcastle Rugby League's two last-round encounters.
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Officially announced on Wednesday, the fixture has been scheduled ahead of the October long weekend which was originally slated as the start of finals.
Player availability was a potential issue so the clubs agreed to move the game forward. Kick-off is 8.15pm.
Cessnock (16), coming off the bye, are sitting second on the competition ladder. They are two points behind leaders Wyong (18) and two ahead of next best Wests (14).
Wyong, who can claim the minor premiership, are away to last-placed Maitland on Saturday and Wests have the bye. The Goannas have a better for-and-against record than both of those sides.
Fourth-placed Souths (13) now have a bye in round 11. Upcoming opponents Central withdrew from first grade last week following the death and funeral of Butcher Boys prop Joel Dark.