THE South West Rocks Marlins impressive run in the Hastings League came to an end on Saturday.
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The Marlins finished their second season disappointed, as they were one game away from the grand final. However, they can hold their heads up high after a great season.
Marlins lost Grant Schubert before the game with a three match suspension at the Judiciary for a head high tackle the previous week against Kendall Blues.
Coach Craig Smith knew Schubert would be a big loss in the middle for the important clash.
The Marlins came up against 2013 premiers the Comboyne Tigers for the second spot in the 2014 Hastings League Grand Final.
The first half was played at a cracking pace. Both teams were locked at 10-all at half-time with tries to Alex Rouse in the seventh minute and Reece McPhillips before the break.
In the 44th minute, with referee Rod Copp officiating, Marlins five-eighth Grant Coleman received 10 minutes in the sin bin.
This proved to be the game changer with Comboyne scoring two quick tries while the Marlins were down to 12 men. This gave them a handy lead, 22-10.
In the 50th minute, Marlins second-rower Tony Duncan was left concussed from a head high tackle that took the big forward out of the game and had to be assisted from the field.
With the Marlins up against it, Craig Smith Jnr showed his flare in the 54th with a superb kick and chase to score a brilliant try next to the posts to bring the Marlins back into the Game. Mick Judd converted to have the game within reach 22-16 Tigers way.
With Coleman back on the field, Marlins were back to 13 men. McPhillips was attacking down the sideline but upon playing the ball got penalised for stepping off the play the ball.
With the ensuring penalty, Comboyne took full advantage to score in the next set of six to once again extend the Tigers lead 28-16.
Marlins finally gained good ball, the Tigers cracked in the 64th minute with Paul Owens scoring a crucial try next to the posts. Judd’s conversion bringing the Marlins back in the game 28-22 Tigers way.
But the Marlins couldn’t convert their attacks into points with Comboyne sealing victory with a late try to give the Tigers victory 34-22
“It’s a huge achievement in the club’s second year in the competition,” club president Geoff Ball said.
“All the Marlins players are to be commended for their 2014 season. This club (Marlins) is going places in the Rugby League world.”