ALBURY-Wodonga Steamers are back on track to play finals after having their penalty downgraded for playing an unregistered player.
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Instead of losing five points for playing David Cooper-Dunn against Wagga City in round 14, the governing body has declared the match a draw.
That means the Steamers are five points clear of Wagga City heading in Saturday's final round clash against Waratahs.
Wagga City play Tumut at Tumut.
"SIRU asked us to ask for an alternate penalty and we requested the game be called a draw which they accepted," Steamers' president Mick Raynes said.
"We think common sense has prevailed.
"We have had a lot of support in local rugby union.
"Our club felt the penalty was extraordinary harsh taking everything into account and it's been a pretty stressful couple of days for everyone involved."
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SIRU's board met on Thursday night and informed the Steamers of their decision on Friday morning.
Raynes said the Steamers could now concentrate on playing competition heavyweight Waratahs.
"It's been hovering over the players and coach for a while and it's been an emotional time," he said.
"We're confident we are mature enough to handle it though by moving on straight away.
"We want to play well on the weekend to make sure we qualify for finals."
