by Chris W.B

The finals hit elimination mode, with Central and Adelaide bowing out of proceedings after losses in their games. North Sydney's upset win over Gold Coast has thrown things into disarray, with Gold Coast meeting Brisbane next week in elimination style.

Manly made it two in a row with an impressive 18-6 win over the struggling Brisbane Bulls, who have now lost their last five- including last week's 20-0 loss at home. The Cannons were in control throughout, their backline slicing through some uninspired Brisbane defence.
Manly: Mat Rogers, Laurie Daley and Aaron Moule. Rogers 3/4
Brisbane: Paul Green. Wilson 1/1
PoM Points: Aaron Moule 3, David Kidwell 2 and Laurie Daley 1.

North Melbourne have ended Adelaide's season with a decisive 24-4 annihilation of the side formerly favoured to meet Gold Coast in the finals. The Maulers had little trouble against the obviously tired Adelaide side, with their star-studded threequarter line dominating their more recognised counterparts.
North Melbourne: Andrew Walker, Rhys Wesser, Ben Kusto and Richard Peleasina. Walker 4/5
Adelaide: Ben Harris. Paul 0/1
PoM Points: Andrew Walker 3, Rhys Wesser 2 and Darren Albert 1.

Central have been knocked out of the 2002 finals race in dramatic style, coming from 14-0 down but unable to snatch a miracle win, eventually being downed 16-14. There is little doubt the Phoenix were the best team, but four disallowed tries robbed them of their place in the finals, and now they must begin rebuilding for 2002/2003.
Central: Lesley Vainakolo and Jamie Peacock. Shayne 2/3
Carnarvon: Mark Gasnier 2. Thurston 4/5
PoM Points: Mark Gasnier 3, Lesley Vainakolo 2 and Jamie Peacock 1.