Scratch my back!

I'm in a contest I would like to win
Where lies and duplicity are not a sin.
I've worked out the strategy. Worked out the rules.
Treat competing poets as if they were fools!
I'll say that your poem is... enervating!
And that I'll give it the highest rating.
Yes Sir! Ma'am! Or is that mate?
I think your poem is superbly great.
But now, of course you must lie to me!
Let the praise flow, loose and free.
Tell me you'll give me a rating of nine
Just 'cos you thought my poem was fine!
My lead over you, your rating enhances.
But will it really cut back your chances?
We promise a ten but give a two.
A friendly lie between me and you.
Of this game I'm very cynical.
The plotting and planning are very clinical.
So! Scratch my back and I'll scratch yours.
We'll give each other the highest scores!
I grant that your poems are very good.
Most are diamonds, but others are wood.
So please my friends, rate me high!
I want my score to reach the sky!
You can come in a very close second, but,
The winning post, to me has beckoned.