With four rounds left in the Real NRL season, seven teams are still in with a shot of making the final five.
Having survived a scare against Central, the Rosellas will now prepare for a tougher test against the resurgent Bulldogs.
Newcastle Rugby League
Round 14
1 Macquarie 24
2 Wests 20
3 Cessnock 18
4 Kurri Kurri 17
5 Maitland 16
6 Souths 16
7 Central Newcastle 11
8 Port Stephens 8
9 Lakes 2