But the premiership picture might be more clouded after yet another stalemate between the Illawarra Rugby Union heavyweights.

Shoalhaven led 17-5 at half-time before a Chris Jack-inspired Wombats fought back to snatch a 20-all draw.

A NSW Country representative, Jack was outstanding in crunch time, scoring a try and cleverly laying on another for a team-mate.

Avondale kept their noses in front in top spot, while second-placed Shoalies have played one less game and are still convinced they are the better team.

"It was very physical and both sides played good rugby, but it was a game we probably should've gone on with and won," Shoalhaven coach Paul Mulready said. "They were probably happy with the draw, whereas we felt as though we left a bit on the field.

"We got offside with the referee in the last 20 minutes and didn't get much from him, and we turned over possession at crucial times.

"I was happy with how we played and the important thing is we've still got a game in hand. We're still right in the hunt for the minor premiership."

Shoalhaven and Avondale played out a draw in last year's finals series and also drew during a regular season game in 2006.

"We beat them by two points earlier in the season so both teams are obviously pretty closely matched," Mulready said.

"I was impressed with how they played. Last season they were a bit one-dimensional but (coach) Les (Sperring) has got them going forward and they're playing good rugby.

"We're building and progressing well and hopefully that will continue because we've got some tough games coming up against Uni, Bowral and Shamrocks."

Meanwhile, Kiama moved back into finals contention with a 29-25 road win over old rivals Vikings.

Despite not budging from eighth spot, Kiama are one of four teams with a genuine shot at fifth.

The Blueys picked up two bonus points, but coach Phil Green would've been disappointed his side missed an opportunity to rejoin the top five.

Sixth-placed Bowral were also unable to improve their position after going down 22-14 away to University.

Shamrocks bounced back from the previous week's heavy loss to Avondale, cutting loose in a 48-12 rout of wooden spoon certainties Camden.

NSW Country rep Dwayne Devries bagged a hat-trick of tries for the Rocks, while Peter Rowling crossed twice.

Table: Avondale 50, Shoalhaven 49, Shamrocks 37, Uni 35, Tech Waratahs 24, Bowral 23, Vikings 23, Kiama 19, Camden 7.