NORTH Coast bowed out of the women's Country Rugby League Championship when beaten 26-12 by Newcastle in the semi-final that was switched to the Jack Neal Oval in Taree.
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The game was originally set down for more than a month ago, but was postponed because of flooding. Further rain in Taree on Saturday ensured the going was slippery for the players.
Newcastle led 10-6 at halftime in what was a physical contest. The Bulldogs were still in the hunt until late in the game when Newcastle ran in two tries to blow out the score.
"We were underdone,'' North Coast manager Mal Drury said.
"I think we only had one training run in seven weeks. And Newcastle were a very polished side, so North Coast can be proud of their efforts.''
North Coast beat Central Coast and Illawarra South Coast to qualify for the semi-final with the game against Illawarra played at Taree on March 13. The semi-final was originally set down to be played on March 20.
Wingham's Jonty Hemmingway started the game on the bench but was called into the fray early in the first half following an injury. She played soundly.
Halfback Larissa Ward tried hard for the Bulldogs.
Newcastle will now play Riverina in the final at Wagga next month before the Country side to meet City is named.
"I think we should get a couple of players in the Country team,'' Mr Drury said.