Grassroots rugby league was well and truly alive at Gary Larson Oval, Miriam Vale on Sunday, when it hosted the Northern Districts Rugby League grand final.
The forecast of much-needed rain didn't deter fans as a large crowd of league lovers packed in to witness the all-important 'big dance'.
The first match of the day was between Agnes Water Marlins and the Avondale Tigers for the annual Slean Cup with the Tigers running out victors 48-10 in a dominant display.
Northern Districts RL: Grand Final HLs
Women's LeagueTag between the much-improved Agnes Water and Avondale provided great entertainment to the interested crowd with positive comments overheard amongst spectators about the game.
It was a fast and end-to-end game, with the experienced Avondale girls combining well to win 24-0.
This is a new concept implemented this season with the intent to attract more competitors and supporters to the clubs and attend NDRL matches.
With the plan of more teams entered next season, it will be great for the competition and NDRL overall as low crowd numbers have seen all clubs struggle financially this season.
The main match of the day between hosts and favourites the Miriam Vale Magpies and the South Kolan Sharks was a dour struggle from one red zone to the other with no favours given.
The Magpies led 8-6 at the break but the Sharks were well and truly in the game; being starved of possession in the first half, but even when they had the ball, they constantly turned the ball over due to errors.
Defence was strong and desperate from both teams and although there was a long break from a serious injury midway through the second stanza, both teams continued where they left off before the stoppage.
With four minutes to play, the Sharks provided hope for their supporters when they scored and converted to be within a possibility of a draw and to play extra time, but the Magpies held strong and finished premiers, winning 18-12.
The Magpies' Thomas Robinson was deemed best on field and claimed the prestigious player of the grand final following his side's victory.
MIRIAM VALE 18 (R Noy, J Farraway tries; B Noy 5 goals) defeated SOUTH KOLAN 12 (J Olive, D Chapman tries; M Jones 2 goals) at Gary Larson Oval, Miriam Vale.
*This story was written by Bundaberg QRL Operations Manager Dave Pearce
