Rookie centre Wael Harb was the star of the show as AUB overpowered a waning Balamand side in Bhamdoun. Harb, playing his fourth game of rugby league, decimated the northerners, scoring four tries and showing the full repertoire of his athletic ability as AUB put themselves to within one match of a probably final berth. Coach Remond Safi would have been licking his lips at the prospect of Harb developing as rapidly in the future as he has in two months. Not since the likes of Peter Danner or Edib Samara has AUB had a strike player of such devastating capabilities in the backline: Harb has the potential to score from deep every time he touches the ball, thanks to his blistering pace, acceleration and muscularity.

A succession of late scores flattered AUB, but the Wolves were clearly dominant, out-muscling a disappointing Balamand outfit. Having seen AUB strike out to a 12-0 lead, Balamand should have cut the deficit yet couldn't turn a sustained period of pressure into points. One gilt edged opportunity went begging when Gilbert Haydamous offloaded into touch with a two man overlap.

AUB increased the lead to 16-0, with props Adel Kenzo and Mounir Finan particularly impressive in the middle of the park, before Balamand struck back through inspirational captain Darwich Darwiche. Nursing a shoulder injury from the first half Darwiche cut through the Wolves' line and sped 30-metres to score. But any chance of a fight back were snuffed out when usually dependable Najy Bassil failed to control the kick off, setting up AUB in Balamand's half – a chance they took with alacrity. Down 20-6, Balamand were offered another lifeline when AUB custodian Megho Keychian, who had enjoyed a solid match at the back, defused a bomb only to lose possession in the tackle, with Wissam Krayam scooping up the loose ball and touching down under the posts. But at 20-12 and with 16 minutes left, AUB ruthlessly snuffed out Balamand's hopes, scoring three more tries to secure the win and leapfrog CL into second spot.

Next week Balamand and AUB do it all again, this time in the north. Balamand must win and then beat CL the following week to make it to their third straight final, while AUB knows that a victory will all but assure them of a showdown with LAU.