Penalties was all that separated rivals Lower Macleay Magpies and the South West Rocks Marlins in the Bain Cup on Saturday.
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After finishing the match level at 10, the Magpies were awarded the victory as they conceded less penalties throughout the match.
Marlins co-coach Sam Drew was disappointed his side won't advance but was impressed with their first hit out.
"It was very wet conditions so there was a fair bit of dropped ball and we gave away a lot of penalties which relieved pressure on them at times," Drew said.
"But overall I was quite happy with the performance, we fought back into the match twice.
"There is always room for improvement but I am sure we will hold onto the ball in dryer conditions.
"Both of the sides played pretty well, I expect the Magpies to do well this year."
The Magpies opened the scoring but Drew, who was playing five-eighth, darted over to level the scores at six-all at half-time.
Lower Macleay recaptured the lead early in the second half but the Marlins once again found an equaliser, this time through Drew's coaching partner Sam Howe.
The match, which was two 20-minute halves, came to an end and the Marlins were eliminated while the Magpies advance to play this Saturday.
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