A NARROW 1-0 loss against the Orara Valley Dingoes has ended hopes of a grand final appearance at C.ex Coffs International Stadium for the Nambucca Strikers Men’s Division 2 team.

The Strikers and Dingoes have been closely matched through a hard-fought and it was no surprise it went down to the wire.

From the opening whistle the game was played at a semi-final intensity offset and physical football.

Club coach Rhys Jones applauded the valiant effort.

“Both teams threw themselves at each other, this game was played at a frantic pace.

“0-0 was the score line at half time.

“Every Strikers player gave their all, nothing was being left in reserve, it was all or nothing,” he said.

“There was no way both teams could keep up that intensity for another 45 minutes but that’s what happened with players giving 150 percent effort.

“The tension on the sideline was indescribable, it was truly end to end stuff,” Jones said.

Just as Strikers coach Ricky Welsh was gearing up for extra time, an 85th minute penalty was awarded to Orara, who slammed it into the roof of the net to the relief of the Orara side and their supporters.

Coach Ricky Welsh was shattered by the cruel blow but walked away with his head held high.

“It was an end to end, edge of your seat game, where each and every player played out of their skins,” he said.

“Multiple scoring opportunities for our lads from some great plays.

“Our boys looked dangerous while on the hunt for a semi-final win, but just fell short in the 85th minute.

“I couldn’t be prouder of every single player – they gave it their all.

“Stand out performances from Staines, Johnny and Travis created a wall that Orara struggled to break down.

“So with that result the Strikers have completed their season, but they can hold their heads high with the commitment and effort they displayed throughout the year,” concluded Welsh.

By David WIGLEY