THE Rosewood Roosters were unable to tame the Norths Gold Tigers in their Rugby League Ipswich Division 2 Under-15 qualifying final.
However, the teenage Roosters have a second chance to challenge them in the grand final.
The Roosters need to beat Redbank Blue in this weekend’s preliminary final to earn another chance to upstage the minor premiers.
Norths Gold advanced directly to the grand final by accounting for Rosewood 30-4 at Anzac Park.
Redbank Blue beat Fassifern 50-8 to join Rosewood in the preliminary final to decide the second grand final side.
Roosters’ under-15 head coach Josh Hassett was upbeat about his team’s prospects after watching his players gain valuable finals’ experience.
“We’ve still got another shot next week against Redbank – definitely not out of it,” Josh said after last weekend’s match.
“That will definitely be a good way to go for us.”
Josh said his under-15 side had a positive year with just one major shoulder injury.
Assisted by C-Grade team head coach Sam Collins, Josh said playing the Tigers was a timely learning experience.
“Norths were clear out in front on the ladder,” Josh said.
“Norths had a very strong team all year.
“We always knew it was going to be a tough game. Norths just came out hungry today.”
The Roosters only trailed 10-4 at halftime after a try by prop Jarahn Kuhrt.
Norths capitalised better in the blustery conditions to dominate the second half.
Looking beyond the preliminary final, Josh said a major focus was keeping the under-15 group together after a productive year working with the club’s C-Grade players.
“Our plan next year is we’re going to push them into under 16s in the pre-season with the seniors,” Josh said.
“That will be good for them getting that hit-out.”
The Roosters’ match was one of four junior finals contested at Anzac Park last Saturday afternoon.
Josh said he appreciated the opportunity for the Rosewood club to host some exciting talent.
“Thanks to the RLI for letting us do it,” he said.
“It just turned out really well.”
