WINGHAM coach Paul Lewis has warned his players to concentrate on this weekend and not to worry about the prospect of the September 27 Group Three Junior Rugby League under 18 grand final being played at Wingham.
Subscribe now for unlimited access.
$0/
(min cost $0)
or signup to continue reading
"That's the prize - you don't get it much better than that, a home grand final,'' Lewis said.
However, to get there the Tigers first have to overcome Macleay Valley in the elimination match at Port Macquarie on Sunday.
"It's no use looking forward to the grand final if we don't get there,'' Lewis reasoned.
The Tigers finished second on the ladder and Macleay third. Lewis said previously there's been little between the top sides. Wingham and Macleay only met the once, with Wingham coming from behind to win 10-6.
The Tigers won't have the services of five-eighth Harry Lewis, who will undergo knee reconstruction surgery tomorrow. Lewis ruptured his ACL in the game against Macksville on August 29 at Wingham. That game was Wingham's only loss for the campaign. Josh McTaggart will be the five-eighth on Sunday. Lewis said Wingham's quick in the midfield and said the forwards, led by lock Kyle Minett will play key roles. Goal kicking halfback Hayden Essery has been solid all season while fullback JJ Gibson has tested all defences.