That's how the Maitland District competition is shaping heading into Saturday's one-dayers.

With recent rain, teams are having their chances of forcing their way into the semi finals severely impacted.

The last two rounds were washed out completely, and only one round in the last six completely unaffected by weather. While three of the top four places are assured, the fourth semi final spot is wide open with Kurri, Easts and Wests all in the hunt.

With one round after this, it's now or never for some. Here's how it shapes.

Easts v Kurri:

Kurri (31 points) and Easts (30) sit just behind Wests (32) outside the top four. A win here at East Maitland Park is crucial for both sides. Kurri's batting has been fragile, and they really need more support for Ben Herring in the middle order. But how do you run the rule over Easts? They beat Norths one week in a sensational result, then get rolled for 49 against City the next week. Your guess is as good as mine. But however you look at, neither side can afford to lose this one.

Thornton (50) v Wests (32):

Thornton got off to a flyer this season and haven't let up. They're looking at winning the final, full stop. And with opener Jono Gabriel leading the way at the top of the batting order with more selective stroke play this season - which means he still scores fast - they've been rock solid. But Wests desperately need to win not just to keep Easts and Kurri at bay, but also to get some belief heading into the final round. They're against Kurri at Kurri in that one. No excuses, it's in their hands. Two wins and they're home.

Norths (46) v City (55):

Both teams are safe for the semis, but this match means more for Norths than City. No matter what, come the finals, City will be the team to beat. Norths on the other hand would love to knock over the favourites with the semis looming. Cal Gabriel has been running hot for Norths and Lincoln Mills solid. But they're up against a hot attack - Tim Burton, Todd Francis, Tim Baker and Nick Bower sit second, third, fourth and fifth on the district wicket taking list. And that's without the Trappel brothers and a strong batting lineup to consider. Enough said.

Tenambit Morpeth (26) v Raymond Terrace (24)

Who wants the wooden spoon? It's tough because both teams went in to the season with reasonably high expectations. But neither side got the start they were after to the season and with the back half so severely interrupted by the weather, they haven't had much chance to make up ground. It's hard to split the two sides here sat Morpeth. It doesn't get any easier for either side either. They play the top two in the final round - Tenambit at home to City and Terrace up against Thornton at Thornton.