With just seven rounds remaining in the 2026 Central League 2 season Central Football clubs are setting the benchmark.

After 11 matches, Taradale AFC, Palmerston North Marist and Palmerston North United occupy the top three places on the competition ladder, ahead of seven Capital Football clubs. The league, which brings together clubs from both Central Football and Capital Football, has seen the three Central representatives establish themselves as the teams to beat.

Taradale AFC currently leads the competition on 21 points, having recorded six wins, three draws and just two defeats. The Hawke's Bay side has impressed at both ends of the pitch, scoring 26 goals while conceding only 13 to boast one of the league's best defensive records.

“This has been a very competitive league and no games are easy, anyone can beat anyone on their day. I’m sure there will be more twist and turns before the season is over” - Jake Green, Taradale Head Coach

Just one point behind sits Palmerston North Marist on 20 points. Marist have built their campaign on consistency, securing six victories and positioning themselves firmly in the race for the league title.

Palmerston North United rounds out the top three on 19 points. Like the two sides above them, United has also claimed six wins this season and remains well placed as the competition enters its final seven rounds.

The closest challenger from Capital Football is Tawa AFC in fourth place on 18 points, although they have played one match fewer than the three Central Football clubs above them. With only five points separating first and sixth, the race for top honours remains incredibly tight.

After taking a break last weekend Central League 2 resumes this Saturday with a blockbuster fixture. League leaders Taradale AFC will host Tawa AFC at Taradale Park in a match that could have a significant impact on the title race. With Tawa sitting just three points behind the leaders and holding a game in hand, the clash looms as one of the biggest fixtures of the season to date. A win for Taradale would strengthen their position at the top of the table, while victory for Tawa would further tighten an already fiercely contested competition.

Having three Central Football clubs occupying the top three positions is an outstanding achievement and highlights the strength of football across the Federation. With just seven rounds remaining, Taradale AFC, Palmerston North Marist and Palmerston North United have all put themselves in excellent positions as the race for the Central League 2 title heads towards an exciting conclusion.

Article added: Wednesday 08 July 2026