Four Kempsey Cannonballs sides will compete in the first round of the finals of the Upper Mid North Coast Rugby Union competition this weekend.
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The Cannons Under-18s side finished the season as minor premiers and will be favourites to take out the title.
They travel to Grafton to face off with Southern Cross University on Saturday at 1.30pm. The winning side will advance to the grand final while the losing team will have a second chance.
The Under-16s finished in third place and they play in Coffs Habour on Sunday in an elimination final against the Snappers.
The Under-14s finished in second position and they also play the Marlins at Grafton on Saturday for a spot in the grand final.
Meanwhile the Cannonballs reserve grade side will play an elimination final against the Snappers on Sunday at 12.45pm.
The side rallied to win their final three games of the regular season to sneak into the finals series ahead of the Marlins.
Cannonballs coach Matt Scott said earning a finals spot was a true indication of their season.
“We weren’t far off the mark all year, we just couldn’t find a way to win a match,” Scott said.
“Our biggest loss of the season was by 11 points. We have trained well all season and the boys kept turning.”
Scott credited the return of key players to helping the side turn close defeats into victories.
“Getting Braydon Davis, Dre Barker and Iulio Tavete back playing regularly has been a big contributor,” he said.
"These three players create a lot of opportunities for everyone around them.
“Lionel Lockwood has been fantastic in the front row as well. The old heads of Lance Byrne and Billy Yabsley have also been key factor.
“In saying that, everyone has had a strong finish to the season. It has been a team effort. They have all contributed, stuck to the game plan and given 100 per cent. The boys are confident and excited. I’m proud of the effort they have all shown.”
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