Just when it seems like the NRL conference tables are cementing themselves, the landscape suddenly turns itself on its head.

NRL South: Up, up, Cronulla

The Melbourne Storm and the St George Illawarra Dragons have alternated as leaders of the NRL South conference over the course of the 2015 season, but as their campaigns have spluttered to a halt, the Cronulla-Sutherland Sharks have begun their ascent. Not too long ago they floundered at the bottom of the conference table; now, after 18 rounds, they are equal first. Neither the Storm nor the Dragons have won a match in their last five rounds, while in contrast, the Sharks have only lost the one. July may be the month where the Sharks set themselves up for conference title glory.

NRL West: Electric Eels

After a horror start to the season, the Eels have won their last three matches and are proving themselves a competitive force in the NRL West conference. So much so, in fact, they could theoretically go to the top of the conference table if they can defeat rivals the Canterbury-Bankstown Bulldogs in round 19. It’s a remarkable feat if they can achieve it.

NRL East: The Sea Eagles Start to Soar

It took a while, but the Manly-Warringah Sea Eagles are beginning to display some spark in their footy again. After being rooted to the bottom of the NRL East conference table, and the NRL as a whole, the Sea Eagles have won three of their last four matches and are climbing up the ladder. They may not be able to win the NRL East, but with upcoming matches against all three of their conference rivals, Manly may have a big part to play in determining who will ultimately triumph.

NRL North: Origin period? What Origin period?

With so many of their star players selected for the 2015 State of Origin series, it was fascinating to see whether the Brisbane Broncos or the North Queensland Cowboys would stumble through the treacherous Origin period. Remarkably, neither team did. Instead, they are in the perfect position leading into the run home to the finals – and what a brilliant experience it will be to see who gets over the line in the NRL North conference.