THE BRIGHTEST young talent in Country Rugby League will fight it out for ultimate bragging rights when they compete in the SLE Worldwide Australia U16/18 Country Championship grand final on Saturday.
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The under 16s East Coast Dolphins side – made up of players from Tweed Heads to Taree – won their way to Saturday’s decider against the Western Rams after three wins and just one loss throughout the four-round competition.
In two of the four games they kept their opponents scoreless, the third romping home to a 24-point win. Their loss, was by one point.
Coach Joel McCafferty said it had been an ideal run for the side through the competition, but that it wasn’t over yet.
“The boys were happy with the win but know there is still one to go,” he said.
“It was pleasing to see that they kept the opposition to 0. Shows their attitude towards defense and their ability to stay focused for the entire game.
“Nothing will change for this weekend. The theme has been about being consistent to if we can do that on Saturday we will give ourselves the best chance of getting the win.”
While the Dolphins have had a largely successful run through the competition, the Rams have made it through completely unscathed.
“The Western Rams are a quality side with a great coach and no doubt they will be well prepared,” Joel said.
“I think this maybe the first time the Dolphins have made a country grand final so that is exciting for the organisation and I'm sure the boys will do the jersey proud.
“All the hard work has been done so we will just wait and see on Saturday.”
The Country under 16 and 18s sides to tour New Zealand will be named after their respective finals.
The 16s final will kick-off at 10:00am with the U18’s kicking-off at 11:30am.