Although all games were keenly contested, the Seahorses proved to be too strong in all three grades.

First grade came out of the blocks with strong defence and an even share of possession that saw Wade Davis and Cam Cohen cross for the Magpies after 20 minutes.

However fatigue set-in and the Seahorses crossed for two converted tries to lead 12-8 at the break.

In the second half the Magpies were always on the back foot with the Seahorses cruising to a 28-8 lead.  A lot of niggling tactics spoilt the game but the Magpies managed to score through Nathan Maguire on the bell and the successful conversion put the final score at 28-14 against the third placed team.  Congratulations to coach Maurie Hulbert and the players for finishing the year so strongly.

Magpies reserve grade finished their season well, albeit with another close loss, showing that there is a lot of talent in the squad. Coach John Bond has done a top job in keeping the team together and supplying numbers to first grade.

Behind 8-0 early on, the Magpies hit back with some clever play through Elijah Wilson who scored and converted his own try.  Shortly after, a clever kick from Eli saw Ben Cross over the try line to take the Magpies to the lead 10-8.  Woolgoolga hit back to lead 18-10 at half-time. 

Not to be outdone the Magpies went into overdrive with tries to Kieran Jarrett, Brendon King and Elijah. Unfortunately Joseph Blair could only convert one of these, leaving the Magpies trailing 28-24.

Though the Seahorses scored a converted try to put the game beyond the Magpies, the Magpies showed their spirit and hit back in the final minutes with a try by Andrew to go down 34-28.

In a tough game the U18s were always on the back foot against a team equal to them on the competition ladder.  Midway through the second half the Magpies trailed 20-0 before Jed Mitchell scored and Jack Mitchell converted to leave them behind 20-6.  Late in the half Jarryd Edwards crossed for a try but was recalled for stepping into touch. 

This week the U18s are in the semi-finals against Woolgoolga at Sawtell on Saturday at 11.30am. 

It’s also one of the few occasions the Magpies have their three Junior League teams home at Connell Park.  It would be great to catch up with some league action next weekend.