Kempsey Cannonballs Under-18s celebrate premiership success

The Cannonballs were forced to dig deep in the early stages of the contest as their opponents controlled the possession and applied pressure to their defensive line.

However, Kempsey made the most of their opportunities once they were able to get their fair share of the ball.

The Cannonballs opened the scoring through a penalty goal and ended a hard-fought first half with a converted try to Darby Lancaster.

While the Cannons entered the second half with a 10-0 advantage, they were facing a stern breeze and they adjusted their gameplan.

Cannonballs coach James Lancaster instructed his players to hold onto the ball as kicks into the wind would have been a negative play.

The attacking style of play proved to be a success as Harry Mainey and Sam Roberts crossed for two quick tries to extend the lead to 22-0.

Kempsey continued to hold the ball and the Marlins’ players began to show their frustration.

Two of their best players were shown yellow cards for separate incidents.

Meanwhile the Cannonballs stuck to their game plan and Darby grabbed his second try of the match before Caedan Allan crossed to give his side a 32-0 lead.

The Marlins grabbed a late consolation try but the celebrations had already begun for the Cannonballs.

“It was quite nice to be able to relax and enjoy the final 10-minutes of the game,” James said.

“We were expecting a close game and it was closer than the scoreline suggests.

“We had to work hard in the early stages and there was still plenty to do after half-time.”

James credited his side’s attitude and their work ethic throughout the season.

“They’ve worked hard all year and they went onto the field on Saturday feeling like they deserved to win,” he said.

The whole team contributed to the victory but there were a few standout players.

“Captain Jacob Nelson and Harry Mainey were excellent, tackled hard in the forwards and carried the ball over the advantage line well,” James said.

“The Allan brothers, Tyler and Caeden, were also great. The two are terrific footballers and have improved their decision making and provided the side with the right play at the right time.

“Hugh Shannon is another player who stood out, he didn’t stop working all game.”

With the Cannonballs celebrating their first premiership since 2012, James said it’s a good platform for the club to build on.

“It was a big celebration after the victory, we haven’t won many premierships and it’s been a while since our last one,” James said.

“Hopefully it’s a strong sign of things to come with some great juniors coming through.”

The Cannonballs also reached the preliminary final in the Under-14s, Under-16s and in reserve grade.

However, injuries played first grade’s season.