The South West Rocks Marlins held off a late surge from the Beechwood Shamrocks to book a place in the Hastings League decider after a 28-24 victory.
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The Shamrocks opened the scoring as skipper Jake Flanagan pounced onto a grubber kick which had richoeted off the pots to give his side an early 6-0 lead.
Both sides exchanged opportunities before the Marlins stepped up into another gear.
Five-eighth Mal Webster found winger Josh Trindall unmarked, who dove over in the corner but the strong breeze made it almost impossible for Steve Walker to land the conversion.
The Marlins took the lead for the first time when Jimmy Stokes found the chalk before Corey Giacopelli barged his way over to take the score to 14-6 at half-time.
The Marlins' hard work was undone when a loose carry gave the Shamrocks an opportunity to reduce the deficit immediately after the break and they didn't waste it. A Shamrocks player touched down to make the score 14-12.
The Shamrocks' momentum continued as the Marlins weren't able to hold onto the ball. However, the Marlins' defence was up for the challenge and absorbed multiple waves of attack.
Their perseverance in defence was rewarded when hardworking lock Jesse Meehan crossed to extend the lead to 20-12.
Marlins centre Peter Bula was next to jot the ball down as he gave the Marlins a double-digit cushion.
But the Shamrocks weren't done with yet, as they crossed for back-to-back tries to level the scores at 24-a-piece.
The Marlins dug deep and and were able to find the match winner when Peter Bula strolled over with six minutes remaining.
The Marlins will now face the Laurieton Stingrays in the Hastings league grand final this Saturday.
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