The Macleay Valley Mustangs are eager to make history by booking a rugby league grand final in Kempsey for the first time since 1962 when they take on the Wauchope Blues in a major semi-final at Verge St Oval this Sunday.
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The Mustangs, who finished the season as minor premiers, will win the right to host the Group Three deciders if they can defeat the Blues.
However, it was revealed on Monday that Group Three are contemplating their options on where to hold the 2019 grand finals and will make a decision at the completion of Sunday's games.
The club winning the first grade major semi-final usually hosts the grand final. This has been Group Three policy since 2002.
Mustangs coach Russell Lardner has urged his players not to think about the distraction caused by Group Three and instead focus on sticking to their game plan and proving they deserve to host the grand finals.
"There hasn't been a major semi-final in Kempsey since 2014 and before that I think it was the 1970s," Lardner told the Argus.
"It's a wonderful achievement to be able to host a major semi-final for our community and I have told the boys we have a chance to create history if we win and host the grand finals too.
"We aren't going to let their (Group Three) decision put us off our game. We will worry about that later, the boys can leave it up to me."
After learning the Mustangs would face the Blues, Lardner admitted the opponent doesn't matter and claims their biggest opposition is themselves.
"It doesn't matter who we play, whether it was Wingham or Wauchope, as long as we stick to what we have to do then we will win," Lardner said.
"We need to make sure our attitude is right and we stay positive out there on the field.
"If we can have our line speed up to scratch, have the right mentality in defence and around the ruck, then we will be able to come out on top."
The Mustangs had split results against the Blues in the regular season. They defeated them by one point in their first meeting but fell by eight points on home soil in the second last round.
The Mustangs benefited from a bye for the first week of the finals as players were able to heal from niggling injures. Backrower Tyler Roberts has overcame his injury and is available for selection.
The first grade contest will kick off at 3pm this Sunday. The Mustangs Under-18.5s will also be in action with their fixture against the Pirates scheduled for 12.05pm.
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