The home team went into the game without their leading try-scorer Tim Bridge, who was nursing an ankle injury.

The Tigers were on the scoreboard first when Kurt Lewis stepped through the defence to score. Michael Bailey converted the try for a 6-0 lead.

Minutes later, a cross field kick by Kurt Lewis was retrieved by Brodie Myer, who passed inside to Michael Rees. Again Michael Bailey added the extra points to extend the lead to 12-0. Midway through the half, Port City retaliated with back-to-back tries to level the scores at 12-12.

Then Shannon Ellem barged his way over the line to put Wingham ahead. The conversion by Michael Bailey made the score 18-12.

Ten minutes later, the game was spoiled when Michael Richards was sent off on touch judge's report. The video of the incident shows that he was not guilty of any wrong doing.

From the resulting penalty, the Breakers went in for a try, levelling the scores at half time.

Against just 12 players, Port City scored five minutes after the break with a try off a last play.

Midway through the half, a penalty goal put the visitors eight points ahead. With 10 minutes remaining, another Breakers try gave them a 32-18 advantage. This was backed up with another try five minutes later to seal victory.

In the final minute of the game, Shannon Ellem barged over for his second try. Michael Bailey's conversion made the final score 36-24. The Tigers were gallant in their efforts, and now are in the position of sudden-death football in the minor semi final on Saturday against the Taree City Bulls.

(Shannon Ellem 2, Kurt Lewis, Michael Rees tries, Michael Bailey 4 goals)

The minor semi final will be played on Saturday at the Wingham Sporting Complex. League Tag between Wauchope and Old Bar Beach starts at 10.55am, followed by under 18s, Port Macquarie vs Wauchope. The Tigers reserve grade at 1.25pm, with the big game between Wingham and Taree City at 3pm.