The Laurieton Stingrays are through to the grand final of the Hastings League following their hard-fought win over arch rivals Kendall Blues on August 11.
Subscribe now for unlimited access.
$0/
(min cost $0)
or signup to continue reading
The Stingrays did not hit the lead until the last 10 minutes of the game and held off several late attacking raids from the Kendall Blues to win the final 22-18.
The win has secured the Stingrays a place in the Saturday, August 18 grand final against Long Flat.
At times the Stingrays have had a horrendous injury toll and been on the wrong end of a couple of big score lines during the season, making the achievement of reaching the grand final all the more satisfying.
Coach Brett Farnsworth was full of praise for his team.
“Our team has formed a strong bond and through their constant commitment and will to play for each other have continually improved.
“Our hard work has paid off with some good results and several wins against strong opposition in the last six weeks.
“Long Flat have been the benchmark team all season and deserve their place in the grand final.
“So do we and we’re quietly confident that we can get the job done.”
Club president Scott Parker echoed the coach’s sentiments regarding the playing group.
“Since the inception of the Laurieton Hotel Stingrays about 18 months ago the community support has been incredible,” he said.
“The efforts of our volunteers coupled with a great sponsor and supporter base have enabled the club to build strongly.
“The club is immensely proud of our boys and we are thrilled that we will be able to treat our community to a grand final appearance and hopefully a win.”
The grand final is at Lank Bain Oval, Wauchope, on Saturday, August 18.
The afternoon commences with Kendall Blues Ladies taking on Beechwood Ladies in the grand final of the Hastings Ladies 13’s at 12.30pm.
Following will be the Indigenous All Stars v’s Presidents at 1.30pm, with the Hastings League Grand Final kicking off at 3pm.
The Laurieton Stingrays have chartered a supporter bus for the game. Seats must be booked by Thursday, August 16 via Madison at the Laurieton Hotel. Tickets are $15 per adult and $10 per child.
Post match celebrations will be at the Laurieton Hotel.