The Blacks secured a spot in the Southern Inland Rugby Union finals series last round with a 47-26 win over Tumut Bulls at Exies Oval.

While the Phantoms are already eliminated from finals contention, Blacks coach Craig Morriss believes the clash against their local rivals will be a close encounter.

"The Phantoms are always a tough game for us," he said.

"It's always good to win the last game of the year to take that into next season and they [Leeton] will be out to do that."

Morriss said Griffith was unable to get through the clash against Tumut unscathed, with as many as four first team regulars in doubt for the match against Leeton.

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"Last week was a very physical game," he said.

"It's natural to have a few players pick up some knocks and bruises.

"It will be a great opportunity for some of the younger players to step up."

The Blacks have a chance of finishing second heading into the final round, with the side four points behind Wagga Ag College.

However, the Blacks would need to claim a bonus point victory over the Phantoms and hope last-placed CSU Reddies - who are yet to win a match this season - defeat the Aggies in order to claim second place.

But Morriss believes victory against Leeton is crucial to hold onto third place.

"We've got to win otherwise we can drop out of that third spot," he said.

"We have to keep momentum heading into the finals as no one wants to lose a week out from finals."

However Leeton will be keen to spoil the occasion, with the side aiming to finish their season on as high a note as possible.

Leeton downed CSU Reddies 41-5 at Beres Elwood Oval last round in what was the side's third win in their last four matches.

The first grade clash will get under way at 3:20pm at No. 1 Oval.

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