The Kempsey Cannonballs let a half-time lead slip for the second week in a row, as they suffered a 33-28 loss against the Port Macquarie Pirates on Saturday.
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On the back of an impressive defensive effort, the Cannonballs held a 21-19 lead at the break.
However, a late second half surge saw the Pirates snatch the victory.
The contest started similar to the Cannonballs’ latest match with the Grafton Redmen.
Kempsey defended their line with intensity and were rewarded with their limited opportunities with the ball.
Kini Duavaca, Nathan Stuart and Liam O’Regan crossed in the first half while Braden Farrawell scored the Cannonballs’ only second half try.
While the loss ends the Cannonballs’ finals aspirations, coach Carl Thurgood said the side still has plenty to play for.
“We will be playing for our pride,” Thurgood said.
“I know we are a better side than what the ladder suggets and we have another three chances to prove that.”
Thurgood was impressed with his side’s performance and mentioned a few standouts.
“Liam had his best game of the year with a huge work rate in defence and attack and was rewarded with best and fairest,” Thurgood said.
“Heath Lancaster was again very prominent and had a strong game.”
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