"Results over the last few weeks have made things very interesting," he said.

"Robb College have been the form team all year and looked to have the minor premiership sewn up weeks ago, but results this weekend will determine final placings in the first grade competition."

Tamworth have looked sharp in winning tough matches against Robb and Armidale to close the gap to one point leading into the final round.

Robb had a stumble against Barbarians, meaning they must win this weekend against Armidale's Blues to secure the minor premiership and all-important home semi.

A Robb loss and Tamworth win will see the rejuvenated Magpies finish in top spot.

Albies have been quietly going about their business over the past couple of rounds, and according to Clifton, Tamworth will need to be wary of the other College side they play host to this weekend.

"I genuinely believe that on their day, and side can beat any other. Barbarians have proved that, and Tamworth can't afford to go to sleep against Albies if they want to keep their minor premiership hopes alive," Clifton said.

Semi-finals commence next week, with the major semi-final seeing Robb play Tamworth on Saturday, and Albies facing Armidale Blues in the minor semi on Sunday.

The women's sevens and lower grades will be played at the first grade grounds, with first versus second on Saturday and third versus fourth on Sunday.

Clifton is pleased with the way the 2019 season has played out.

"New England is a small but vibrant comp," he said.

"We have three or four grades plus women's every week meaning there is a lot of energy, a lot of players, and a lot of rugby being played every week."

"We'd love to see another first grade side to round it out, but the quality has been outstanding this year."