The Picton Magpies are in the 2016 grand final after a scrappy 12-10 win over arch rivals Camden yesterday.
Now they get a week off to get ready to face either the Rams or the Thirlmere Roosters as they try to win their fourth premiership in as many years.
Thirlmere booked their place in next week’s preliminary final after an impressive 48-22 win over The Oaks Tigers. MIKE SHEAN reports:
The major semi final between the Magpies and the Rams was a tough, error riddled affair.
Rory Vale opened the scoring for the Magpies nine minutes into the game.
Shiem Mariner, who came off the bench and caused havoc for Camden, scored the second try of the day 12 minutes before halftime, and at 8-0 Picton were in control.
Kyle Simmonds scored for Camden in the second half for an 8-6 scoreline.
But Picton replied almost immediately through second rower Ethan Whittington, to extend the margin to six points.
The Rams reduced it to just two points when winger Mahn Darley scored in the left corner with seven minutes to go.
Camden had an opportunity to level the scores minutes later, when they were given a penalty in close range, but inexplicably decided against taking the attempt at goal.
Camden will need to improve for next week’s preliminary final against Thirlmere at Thirlmere Sportsground if they want to have another shot at the Magpies in the 2016 decider.
RESULTS:
First Grade
Thirlmere Roosters 48 The Oaks Tigers 22;
Picton Magpies 12 Camden Rams 10
Reserve Grade
The Oaks Tigers 4 Camden Rams 26;
Picton Magpies 38 Campbelltown City 12
Under 18
Appin Dogs 18 Mittagong Lions 0;
Camden Rams 26 Thirlmere Roosters 20
League Tag
Thirlmere Roosters 14 Mt Annan Barbarians 18;
Camden Rams 4 Campbelltown City 14
Second Division
Warragamba Wombats 6 Moss Vale Dragons 16;
Robertson Spuddies 18 Appin Dogs 22
NEXT WEEK Preliminary Finals at Thirlmere Sportsground:
Second Division – Robertson vs Moss Vale;
Under 18 – Thirlmere vs Appin;
League Tag – Camden vs Mt Annan Barbarians;
Reserve Grade – Campbelltown City vs Camden;
First Grade – Camden vs Thirlmere
